Ticket demand will be huge for Carling Cup clash with Manchester United
TICKETS for general sale are likely to be restricted for Scunthorpe United's dream third round Carling Cup clash with holders Manchester United.
There will be a huge demand for the first ever clash between the two clubs when Sir Alex Ferguson brings his famous team to Glanford Park on Tuesday, September 21.
That's likely to be the date of the tie – unless it is picked as one of the matches to be screened live by Sky Sports.
Glanford Park has a capacity of only just over 9,100 – and has never yet quite been filled.
But then United have never before had a cup tie quite like this to stage.
Tickets will go on sale first to season ticket holders and then to Iron loyalty card members.
That will account for over 5,000 fans.
And with a further 1,500 going to Manchester United, that will leave less than 3,000 available to go on general sale.
United will announce ticket details within the next day or two, once a date for the match has been confirmed.
The third round draw was made on Saturday while United chairman Steve Wharton was driving to Glanford Park for United's Championship clash with Crystal Palace.
"I got a text from my wife saying what a great draw it was – but it didn't tell me who we were playing," said Wharton.
"It was only when I got to the ground and saw the smiles on people's faces that I found out it was Manchester United.
"It's a dream draw for the town, for us to be able to bring a club like Manchester United here to Glanford Park.
"It should be a terrific occasion.
"Financially, it would have been a lot better for us to have been drawn away at Old Trafford.
"But you can't be too choosy.
"To be drawn against Manchester United, what more could you want?
"We now need a bit of time to get our heads together to decide how to handle it because it certainly biggest game that has ever been at Glanford Park.
"My guess is we will not give overspill away section to Manchester United fans and that our own fans will fill it."
United will have to have talks with the local police to discuss security arrangements both inside and outside the ground.
It will also be the first big test for the Iron's new general manager David Beeby, who took over this summer from Jamie Hammond.
Manchester United will be going for a hat-trick of Carling Cup triumphs this season after lifting the trophy in each of the past two seasons.
Two years ago they beat Tottenham on penalties after a goalless draw at Wembley – and last February they retained the trophy with a 2-1 win against Aston Villa.
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by Bronco, Brigg
Wednesday, September 01 2010, 10:59AM
“I get to perhaps 8 games a season including away games, was at the Sheff Wed game and hoped to get to this game. I know its going to be hard to ensure a ticket but can anyone tell me if there is a limit on how many each person can buy in the general admission?
p.s. what the hell is Steve Wharton doing reading his texts while driving??”
by P.Doff, Goodideasville
Tuesday, August 31 2010, 1:58PM
“His previous incumbent would have thought it an idea to increase membership but yes, well done Mr. Beeby.
I would have paid for my ticket if I had taken a pound off all my family, neighbours and associates asking me to get them a ticket.
Let the true fans have first shout, close the door on back door buying and enjoy the spectacle.”
by mark coome, Messingham
Tuesday, August 31 2010, 1:43PM
“I applaud the club for the decision to suspend new memberships. Many part timers(and Man Utd fans) could have turned up and got a membership for the one game and denied long term members the chance to attend the big match. It would have been easy for the club to cash in and sold a few hundred memberships at £14 a time. Well done United!!”
by Eddie Murphy, Beverley Hills
Tuesday, August 31 2010, 1:39PM
“I shan't be going. Can't stand being surrounded by polyester-clad uber fans, all trying to one-up each other about the last game they managed to get to (most likely Man City), and how much they love Atkins and Sharpe. Note to these types - buying a bit of tat from the shop does not make you a supporter. If only they could be bothered to turn up for the league games - the team are after all doing incredibly well, and deserve a bit more support.”
by IronFan1899, North Lincolnshire
Tuesday, August 31 2010, 11:19AM
“The game is Wednesday 22nd - don't yet know if on TV, but will be on national radio. Up the Iron. Oh, and if you haven't got Iron membership, don't bother trying. They've suspended new applications. So you'll either have to buy a season ticket or hope you beat all the local Man U fans in the general sale queue...UP THE IRON.”