Union Berlin kicked off their second season in the Bundesliga on Saturday. The game ended in a 3-1 defeat at home to FC Augsburg but the Stadion An der Alten Försterei played host to supporters.
The Köpnenick club would normally see over 20,000 fans on a matchday but, as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, only 5,000 were permitted in accordance with the legal measures in Berlin.
So, following the first game of the new season, we spoke to one Union supporter that attended the game and asked how the restrictions had affected Die Eisernen fans.
Fans Back in Stadiums – Bundesliga Success
Supporters Back at Union Berlin
Last season, Union Berlin played their first-ever top-flight campaign. On the pitch, they avoided relegation and, as a result, remain in the Bundesliga this season. But, as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, supporters were unable to see out the final few games of the season.
However, this season, supporters are allowed back into grounds in the Bundesliga with a reduced capacity. Following the opening game of the season, we spoke to Alan Greaves – a Union season ticket holder who attended the game – and asked how different things are with reduced capacity and safety protocols in place.
A Union Supporter
When did you first start watching Union Berlin?
My first match was in December 2008. I got back to see them a few times between then and when we moved to Berlin in October 2013. We bought season tickets from then on.
How many games do you attend each season, home and away?
I go to every home game. I haven’t been to an away game for a few years now.
Did you attend the last home game before the Coronavirus pandemic hit? (2-2 draw against VfL Wolfsburg)
I was at the Wolfsburg game. I don’t think anyone saw what was coming next. We were all looking forward to the next home match against Bayern.
Post Lockdown in the Bundesliga
The Stadion An der Alten Försterei is well known for its electric atmosphere. How has that changed since fans returned to the stadium?
The atmosphere wasn’t the same. No Capo or Ultras so the singing was more spontaneous. The fans did try to build an atmosphere, it was good and maybe it will improve game by game as well. It certainly wasn’t quiet.
Was social distancing and all relevant procedures in place?
The regulations were very well controlled and I think the fans really played their part in that too. You were allocated a row and a number to stand on so exactly like a seat ticket really. Plenty of stewards. Masks we were being worn when fans were going to get an (alcohol-free) beer and sausage or going to the toilet. I think the fans know this is how it is and if we don’t stick to the rules we could go back to ghost games.
In what ways was the matchday experience affected?
It had the feeling of a friendly until the match started. Even during the game, it didn’t feel as intense. The obvious thing is that most of us are used to going in bigger groups. We are normally in a group of ten or so. Only two of us managed to get a ticket.
The result aside, did you enjoy the return to football?
I did enjoy going back. The same nerves when you wake up in the morning. Enjoying a bit of a chat with friends over a pre and after match beer.
Will you be going back for the next home game against Mainz 05?
I will be applying for a ticket for the next match for sure.
Union wanted to have the full capacity by the time the new season kicked off, with the club paying for each fan to have a COVID test. What are your thoughts on that?
I cannot see how that would work logistically. I don’t think Union ever thought it was really an option, just seeing how far they could push the relevant authorities.
Main Photo
