Summer football is the way ahead

Jan 20 2010 Terrace Talk with Sam Tennent

IS it time for summer football? My answer would be a resounding ‘Yes’.

For too long the football authorities have been stubbornly resisting change while the numbers coming through the turnstiles are dwindling season by season.

Poor facilities have been one reason and clubs have gone some way to addressing this, but no matter how much they improve their grounds, there is little they can do about the weather that fans are forced to endure from November through February.

During these months, preparations for a match resemble those undertaken by an arctic expedition.

Several layers of clothing are required and extra thick gloves, socks and hat must protect each extremity.

If the match entails a visit to one of the many stadiums where supporters are forced to sit thought the action, even more care must be taken to avoid the onset of frostbite.

Contrast this with the experience of football in the summer months.

One of my favourite away day trips this season was Rovers’ visit to Somerset Park in July.

It was a beautiful sunny day, and the drive down the coast to Ayr was very enjoyable.

The travelling fans were in great spirits and sang throughout the game, spurring the team to a famous victory.

It was a great day out and I’m sure I would have enjoyed it almost as much if the result had gone the other way!

Being of fair complexion, the only worry I had that day was that I had neglected to take some sunscreen.

The traditionalists often argue that summer football would change the nature of our game, and I agree that this is probably the case.

However, I think the change would be for the better.

Many teams, including Rovers, now profess that the kick-and-rush approach to football is outdated and the passing game is the way ahead.

But in the winter months, conditions are not conducive to this and teams are often forced to play a more direct style.

I feel that this is holding back the development of our game.

For the benefit of the paying customer, and for the good of Scottish football, a move to summer football should be seriously considered.