'We're different to football': Gloucester boss wary of away zone trial

Gloucester will pioneer the Gallagher Premiership’s away end trial this weekend with their Chelsea-supporting coach warning the sport should not end up like football.

The Cherry and Whites’ travelling support will have the option of sitting in a designated away section at Saracens’ StoneX Stadium as part of an experiment run by the league over the next fortnight.

The following weekend Harlequins fans will also have an away zone at Leicester’s Mattioli Woods Welford Road ground.

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Skivington is backing the trial but says rugby has to be careful where the line is drawn when it comes to fan tribalism.

“We’re different to a sport like football where you have to segregate for obvious reasons or else there’s a lot of trouble,” said Skivington.

“That’s not a reason not to do this. I don’t mind the initiative. I think if you want to be surrounded by your team, then it’s not a bad thing to have the option to do that.

“But I think we should never get away from being able to sit opposing supporters together and enjoy a drink and a bit of a laugh.

“Since I’ve been here, the amount of supporters that I meet from other places that say they love coming to Gloucester because it’s obviously loud but everybody’s welcoming and everyone has a good time together…. after the game, everyone shakes hands, has a beer. I think that’s the beauty of rugby.”

Fixture

Gallagher Premiership

Saracens

36 - 14

Full-time

Gloucester

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Premiership Rugby officials hope the atmosphere will be enhanced by the move.

“I think it will be interesting,” said Skivington. “But Gloucester fans always seem to find each other anyway. We always know where they are because they’re very loud, which is great.

“I’m not exactly sure how it comes together, but, certainly, I’m used to seeing red patches in the crowd where everyone’s found each other.

“So I’m not sure how different it will be.”