Three clubs commended for away fan work by EFL

Preston North End, Doncaster Rovers and Exeter City have been recognised by the EFL for the welcome they provided to away fans this season.

The three clubs were commended as part of the EFL’s Away Fan Experience campaign which seeks to measure how clubs across the Championship, League One and League Two treat visiting supporters.

Clubs are rated by independent undercover fans who visited the away ends of all 72 EFL clubs across the 2018-19 season, with additional guidance provided by the FSF.

Fans are asked to report back on a number of areas ranging from match day information to first impressions of the away end, to the standard of refreshments and the quality of the accommodation – the feedback helps improve the service the provide to visiting supporters.

Preston North End were singled out for praise in the Championship – Deepdale impressing visiting fans with the information provided before their trip, friendly club staff and useful social media updates.

In League One Doncaster Rovers scored the highest – receiving praise for understanding away fans’ needs, the away fans’ family zone and their accommodating staff.

Similarly, Exeter City led the way in League Two with supporters describing the welcome they received as ‘one of the best they had experienced at an away ground’. Their fan liaison staff were praised fpr their approachability and enthusiasm for the club.

FSF deputy chief executive David Rose said: “The FSF welcome anything that encourages clubs to focus on how they treat away fans and are delighted the EFL have once again recognised the efforts of those clubs that go the extra mile.

“We hope that by shining a light on these great examples that more clubs will be inspired to provide a welcoming experience for some of football’s most committed supporters.”

The FSF have collaborated with the EFL in researching and supporting the work around the Away Fan Experience Campaign.

Thanks to PA Images for the image used in this article.