Arsenal have launched a new strategy to improve the atmosphere at the Emirates, in a move set to encourage prawn sandwich brigade supporters to cheer on the team.
During Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, Gunners fans were unable to watch the second half on television screens in the concourse areas at the Emirates.
Instead, a message on the TV screens read: ‘We won’t be showing the second half of tonight’s match live on screen.
‘Every supporter has a role to play. Please head to your seat to watch the game to help create an unforgettable atmosphere.’
And the bold move ultimately paid off, as Mikel Arteta’s side were romped to a convincing 4-0 victory over the Spanish giants.
At half-time, before Arsenal displayed the message to supporters, Diego Simeone’s side had frustrated the Gunners’ attack by keeping them at bay, heading in goalless.
After the break, Arsenal scored a stunning four goals in 13 minutes to cruise to victory, aided by an exuberant home support.
Gabriel Magalhaes converted Declan Rice’s deep free-kick in the 57th minute with a smart header past Jan Oblak, firing the hosts in front.
His Brazilian compatriot Gabriel Martinelli doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 64th minute before a quickfire double from summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, who scored twice in three minutes after struggling for goals of late, took the game firmly out of sight.
Fans on social media hailed the decision to turn off live footage around the stadium, which would have prevented supporters from watching the match while queueing for beer or grabbing a bite to eat.
‘I like this,’ a supporter posted in reference to the move. ‘Gonna do nothing realistically but shows the club are aware and actively doing what they can to work on improving the atmosphere.’
Another fan said: ‘Actually loved this move, hope they keep games off the live screens — crowd was alive in that 2nd half pure passion everywhere. Best vibe of the season far.’
‘I saw the same when I popped out to use the toilet. I think it’s a great initiative and it should continue. The concourse was almost totally empty,’ a third added.
Arsenal will be hoping for a similar atmosphere when they host Crystal Palace at the Emirates on Sunday.
The Eagles, who won the FA Cup under Oliver Glasner last season, sit eighth in the Premier League after losing just once in the top flight so far.
Saturday’s game will see summer signing Eberechi Eze go head-to-head with his former club for the first time since his £68m move to the Emirates.
