Most fans loudly celebrated the triumph over NAC Breda yesterday. But some also took the time to protest the ban on standing in two sections of Philips Stadion. Others do mind the newly-introduced WiFi…

First home game of Eredivisie’s 2014/15 campaign was a fantastic occasion for most PSV supporters, as they saw their team smash NAC Breda 6:1. But a part of the home crowd was also occupied by their club’s new policies at Philips Stadion. While it may seem a piddling issue to some, others are completely serious.

The problem is whether to seat or stand during the game. A couple weeks back season ticket owners from small parts of the north stand were reminded that they are obliged to sit on their seats. The mentioned sections are T and U, both shown below. They lie directly next to the east stand, where the majority of PSV most vocal supporters are located.

Over previous seasons fans used to stand throughout games in these sections, but according to PSV’s recent statement it’s time to change it. The club reminded its following that stadium regulations force fans in the north side to sit during games, while number of complaints has been increasing. Also, PSV claims the club was handed a hefty fine from UEFA last season because of the fans’ ‘misbehavior’.

As a result, yesterday’s game brought various forms of protest from fans. Many season ticket holders in the T and U sections simply boycotted the game. Other supporters used banners (“You can sit at home” and “Stand united”) and chants to remind their officials that some prefer to stand during games.

The more traditional portion of the fanbase also expressed displeasure with new WiFi access available at Philips Stadion. While it’s a measure introduced almost commonly nowadays at modern venues, a banner in the east stated simply “F.ck wifi, support your team”.

Photo: PSVBHS.tk