Published: Thursday, 21st May, 2009 8:00am

Letter - Fans present in body and mind

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I WISH to respond to Anthony Smith"s criticism of the attendance at the Reading v Burnley game which he described as "embarrassing" (Chronicle May 14).

Firstly the TV camera crews concentrated on one section of the South Stand which was unoccupied, thus giving viewers a false impression. The remaining part of the stadium was packed with supporters of both teams, making plenty of atmosphere and noise.

Considering this was a mid-week match, covered by TV and that season

ticket holders were asked to pay "twiceover" for their seats, the 20,000 was a respectable turnout. On the subject of a post match "lap of honour" there was no announcement or other indication there would be one.

All Burnley players remained on the pitch saluting their fans. Reading"s players slunk off with no sign that they might return. Consequently the fans left, many of them to catch the waiting football special buses.

REGINALD W POUND

Trelleck Road

Reading