Eat, Sleep, Drink Norwich City: Consistency would help fans find their voices again

What can be done to get the City fans singing again? Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images (Image: ©Focus Images Limitedwww.focus-images.co.uk+447814 482222)

A major shake-up in the club, a clear out of deadwood and a defined direction stated, for the first time in many seasons.

I have absolutely no idea what will happen. So what are my expectations?

Firstly, I believe we will see determined football, working hard, closing down the opposition and (hopefully!) a tougher defence, will that bring us success? Who knows? But it’s exciting waiting to find out, which brings me onto my next point, the atmosphere at Carrow Road.

Steve Stone asked at the recent supporters forum, why was the atmosphere so poor against Reading? Quality goals were flying in, we dominated, what more does a fan want? Well, consistency for one, out-playing a team one week to then lose without a fight against a relegation favourite another doesn’t breed confidence in our team’s ability. It creates frustration – why now? why play like that this week? Too little, too late…

The style and pace of the game is directly related to the atmosphere, along with results. But there is another reason, with Carrow Road being sold out most games, people do not want to give up their season tickets, the average age of the Carrow Road faithful is ever increasing, new fans find it difficult to get to see their team.

Also the atmosphere has been decreasing ever since seating was introduced, with a terrace you would congregate in groups of mates, huddled together, you would find your spot on the Barclay terrace, waiting for opportunities to move ever closer to the fence separating us from the away fans.

With seating, it’s difficult to recreate that tribal togetherness, you’re spread out and not within shouting distance of each other. So what’s the answer? Rail seating is one idea, but for me, the best plan would be to decide where you want your vociferous fans to be. Let’s say the back 10 rows of block D and E in the lower Barclay, for the club to state these are seats sold with restricted view (officially due to flags and banners, but unofficially due to standing). Offer everyone in this area that doesn’t want to participate in being vocal, a move away to the best seats possible, and vice versa, get like-minded supporters together, this will help, but ultimately, it’s still down to those 11 players in yellow.