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FA PUNISH UNITED

Last updated : 29 March 2007 By Ed
The decision to play the FA Cup semi final at Villa Park has left United with an allocation of only 17,600. Watford will receive 17,800 tickets 600 more than their average home attendance with the FA saying it's United's fans fault for standing up.

The Independent Manchester United Supporters Association (IMUSA) reacted angrily to the FA's decision as they have repeatedly failed to consult supporters.

IMUSA chair Mark Longden said: "It's ridiculous. Watford have an allocation which virtually reflects their average home gate, while ours is a fraction of our attendance.

"I think the real issue here is why the supporters were not consulted. If Chelsea fans can go up to Old Trafford for their semi-final, there is no reason why United fans could not have gone down to Ashburton Grove, with a 60,000 capacity.

"It seems that every year we have these issues over venue and allocation, but no-one ever asks the supporters what they think."

An FA spokesman said: "The difference between the allocations is a total of 200 tickets, and we have to divide the stadium somehow.

"If you incorporate the hospitality areas, there will actually be more Manchester United fans inside the ground.

"The United allocation was also reduced on the basis of advice from Aston Villa's safety officer, due to the fact that they persistently stand when they go to Villa Park."