So first time watching a Rugby League match live. I noticed some of the new players weren't playing, particularly Siti and Wellington. I thought the Broncos would have shown some presence in the stadium, a programme, merchandise or simply info on the players or a little bit about the rules and general expectation of player positions. Remember a lot of the crowd would know very little and it's one of the easiest ways to get them engaged.
I did rather feel the Broncos were handed everything on a plate by AFC Wimbledon such as the street food, pub etc. I was hoping to get a Broncos feel, certainly in the areas the football club would allow them to. At one point I referred to the team as Wimbledon and I really feel that was because nothing "Broncos" was being thrown at me. Ignoring the constraints of the agreement with AFC Wimbledon and that the football club were obligated to provide certain things, I felt the Broncos missed an opportunity.
AFC Wimbledon ladies produce a simple programme but it really helps to get a feel of the individual players plus getting a few short informative articles. Honestly if there was some written material about the club (definitely) or the sport (probably) I would have bought it.
Really need a competitive game, but it was obvious it was over within 15 minutes. At half time I thought this was a bad outcome with so many newcomers present. Actually the second half I enjoyed way more. Widnes were still superior, but would have created a greater atmosphere if the teams were all square at half time.
I'll go back, but I do worry about how many others will. The reality is the pricing won't help and certainly won't attract family's unless offers for kids are introduced (which may well happen of course). The biggest issue will be a competitive team. From what I can tell, a match with Widnes needed to be exactly that. There are some likely hammerings to come from the big teams.