A feature of the stadium that is commonplace across Germany is the standing sections for the more energetic supporters. This gives an added dimension to the atmosphere and gives supporters who want to enjoy the match from a seated position the chance to do so without worrying about the fans who naturally jump up and down throughout the match and would be more comfortable standing. The small area in the stadium that has been converted to terracing generates an intimidating atmosphere and the relatively subdued nature of the rest of the stadium is completely overridden by the ferocity of the standing support.
Although we have a formidable record at the Emirates, as at Highbury, the atmosphere is usually disappointing and although the RedAction section is a step in the right direction, so much more could be done. The standing sections in Germany are safe and well regulated and placing the energetic fans in one section will appease those fans who regularly complain to the stewards about having an obstructed view. The idea promotes harmony within the stadium and gives matches an added intensity and sense of the big occasion.
Bayern versus Hertha Berlin is one of the bigger games in Germany’s season but I would still usually struggle to watch the whole match of a match that has no relevance to me. However, the bustling atmosphere added to the attraction of the game; the stadium is adorned with banners and the standing section provides constant movement and interest. There have been some electric atmospheres at the Emirates but it is nearly always provoked by the team and only occurs in the biggest matches. If fans had the chance to go to a section where they were free to have a few drinks, jump around and enjoy themselves, the atmosphere would consistently benefit and the Emirates would become a more energetic place. The seats at the Emirates are far too comfortable and do not inspire vociferous support even in the RedAction section but a standing equivalent is a viable and potentially successful option. There was a celebratory atmosphere towards the end of the Newcastle game but the place would have been bouncing with a standing section.
Aside from the stadium, the game was surprisingly pleasing on the eye and this was almost entirely due to the referee who managed to disappear; a talent every single English referee neglects. The whistle was rarely used, the advantage was given at every opportunity and the players seemed to respond by playing honestly and not reacting to the referee. The FA has recently launched the ‘Get on with the game’ initiative and although it has been successful in the first few weeks, unless the referees improve their standard, it is doomed. With the best will in the world players will not respect referees when they continue to unnecessarily interrupt the flow of the game and generally make wrong decisions. Refereeing is a hard job but the German league has built up a reputation for having top level officials so it is not an impossible one. Germany has not needed a gimmick to improve the relationship between players and officials because the officials have earned the respect that the FA is trying to gift to their English counterparts.
The Bundesliga is far from being the best league in Europe but it has catered for the fans and in return still supports very large attendances. Bayern triumphed by four goals to one in the match and gave their fans hope that they can still dominate the league this season but it will be interesting to see how they handle the champions league having failed to qualify last season. The Premiership’s big four will probably progress further in the competition this year but our success on the pitch does not mean we should become complacent and fail to recognise successful advancements in the game abroad.
