January 2010

On average, just under 4,000 fans have watched each game played this season, compared to 2,910 in 2008/09, 3,475 in 2007/08 and 2,377 in 2006/07.

And for the area semi-finals alone, attendances were up by a whopping 170 per cent on last season, with 32,692 spectators watching the four games played, an average of 8,173 per game.

The statistics indicate that the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy is more popular than at any stage in its history, is a huge boost to the sponsors.

Sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick welcomed the news and said it reflected an extremely exciting season of football, where the goals have been raining in since the first round.

“We are delighted with these figures, and hope that attendances will continue to increase as we prepare for our fascinating two-legged area finals.

“We have been blessed with some big clubs and big fan bases this season, but the fact that they have enjoyed lengthy cup runs suggests that the trophy is an extremely important competition, and one that they all want to win.”

Leeds United, Southampton MK Dons and Carlisle United are all preparing to take part in the area finals, and their big followings have helped to swell attendance figures.

Teresa added: “We have welcomed the teams to the competition and have watched their progress with interest.

“But attendances were also up by 17 per cent in round two compared to the same stage in 2008/09, and it appears that every club has embraced the competition.”

The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area final first legs will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday January 19 and 20, with the second legs commencing on February 9.

Johnstone’s. Bringing colour to the beautiful game.