Football / Bristol City Women
Bristol City Women to stay at Ashton Gate despite relegation
The results on the pitch may have led to their relegation from the Women’s Super League but Bristol City have been winning many plaudits for their work away from the football field.
This season, there has been an average attendance at Ashton Gate of more than 7,000 fans for each WSL game, with the club set to continue playing in BS3 when they drop down to the Championship.
City bosses have also pledged their support to manager Lauren Smith who they hope will secure them promotion back to the top flight.
is needed now More than ever
Robins fans have, however, reiterated the need for more financial support from Bristol Sport for City Women if they are to compete with the best teams in England, most of who have the backing of men’s Premier League clubs.
Season tickets go on sale on Monday, with the adult price for 11 Championship matches costing £85; a family ticket for two adults and two under-19s £225; and individual under-19 and under-12 season tickets £55.
Bristol City Women will play their Championship games at Ashton Gate next season – photo: Bristol City
Bristol Sport group CEO, Gavin Marshall, said: “Obviously we are really disappointed that we were unable to secure survival on our return to the top flight, but really proud of all the players and staff who have given everything all season.”
In an open letter to fans, Marshall wrote: “In another record-breaking year for the women’s game, we, and all of you, should be proud of the work and dedication that has gone into the continued growth of our game in Bristol, the South West and beyond.
“The same goes for the players, many of whom have shone this season and proved beyond doubt that they deserve to be playing at the top level.
“We have the youngest squad in the division, and while we knew from the outset that it would be an immense challenge to compete with the top teams in the country, there have been times where we’ve gone toe-to-toe with the best of the best.
“Lauren Smith has our full backing, and we firmly believe she is the best person to help us replicate last year’s achievements of winning the Championship and returning to the Women’s Super League.
“In the meantime, we still have our final home game of the season against Everton on May 18 and I know the team will be working as hard as ever to secure victory at Ashton Gate.”
Main photo: Bristol City
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