Clydesdale Bank Premier League fans survey

The results of the first Clydesdale Bank Premier League (CBPL) Fans Survey are out.

Almost one thousand fans completed the survey here on cbfootball.co.uk, between August and October 2007.

The survey asked for fans’ views on a range of topics including supporter demographics, matchday attendance, fans’ expectations, rules and regulations, and CBPL in the community

The key findings included:

• Over one third of CBPL fans viewed their matchday experience as excellent
• Three quarters of fans surveyed expected their club to improve on last season’s league finish
• 87% of fans expected a top six league finish
• 81% of fans watched live, televised CBPL football
• 46% of fans watched as much live, televised CBPL football as possible
• Almost three quarters of fans felt their club made a significant contribution to their community
• 84% of fans favoured the use of goal line technology
• 80% of fans backed the use of video replays during matches
• 88% of fans supported the idea of ‘miking’ referees as they do in rugby
• 40% of fans felt the rules around diving/simulation were not strongly enough enforced
• 49% of fans felt the offside rule required amending, many citing a return to the previous interpretation of the rule as a possible solution

Commenting on the survey, Clydesdale Bank’s Retail Director Steve Reid said:
“The results show that Scottish football fans are passionate about their club. The fact that 87% of fans have a high expectation of their team and start each season with optimism demonstrates this.”

Former professional footballer Scott Booth is a match analyst and co-commentator with Setanta Sports, and also gives his score predictions here on this site. He wasn’t surprised by the results and commented on the optimism of fans:
“Football in Scotland is definitely on the up. Positive displays at national team level and in European competitions coupled with more adventurous football on the domestic front have created a massive feel good factor. Every fan wants their club to be part of this new wave of optimism.”

With regards to the introduction of technology he added:
“The pace at which modern day football is played makes the job of the officials an increasingly difficult one. Getting a major decision wrong can have disastrous consequences for a club. If technology can help minimise this risk then we should makes steps in that direction.”

Lex Gold, Executive Chairman of the SPL said: “It is heartening to see that over 70% of fans consider their matchday experience to be excellent or above average. It is also pleasing to see the significant contribution made by our clubs to their communities is recognised; as is the progress that has been made under the SPL strategy of investment in youth development.”

A full report of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League Fans Survey 2007/08 is available to view or download by clicking here.

Fans Survey 07/08

Everyone that entered the survey went into a draw for a signed shirt from their Clydesdale Bank Premier League team of choice. For a list of the winners click here .