Eels: Fans need to arrive earlier

The Parramatta Eels have announced new measures to ensure fans get into Parramatta Stadium before the first grade game begins.

Fans were angered earlier this month when they were left lining up outside the ground when the Eels? match against South Sydney kicked off.

Eels CEO Denis Fitzgerald says that while the club have looked at new measures to ensure a repeat incident doesn?t occur, it?s impossible to take care of everyone if too many fans show up at the same time.

?We had 21 of a possible 22 terminals in full operation on Monday, but the late arrival of the crowd made it very difficult for the system to cope,? Fitzgerald said.

?The Ticketek Ezyticket has been in operation for a couple of years now, but people need to be more aware of what it can do. You can purchase and print your tickets on your home computer and just turn up at the Stadium, it is simple and easy to use.?

Fitzgerald said that two additional Point of Sale staff members will be rostered on the Western side of the stadium, bringing the total to twelve for future home games.

He also said there will be a greater emphasis placed on PA announcements for those within the Stadium precinct, along with better signage and queuing alternatives.

But fans are being urged to arrive at matches early and avoid last minute congestion.

?We are looking at various options that further encourage supporters to purchase their tickets more than one hour before kick-off,? Mr Fitzgerald said.

The new measures will be put into place this weekend when the club take on The Sharks on Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile, the Eels are expecting an answer relating to the future of centre Jamie Lyon within the next few days.

Whatever Lyon decides, the Eels say they will not grant him a release to play for any other side, even if it is a local country team.

?I can confirm that Jamie has not, and will not, be granted a release from his contract with the Parramatta Club in order that he can play for any other Club, including the Wee Waa Panthers,? Fitzgerald said.