The Latics upcoming friendly against Premier League Champions Manchester City had caused some dissent among season ticket holders as they cannot use the voucher which gives free admission to one friendly. The match takes place on 31st July and ticket prices are set at £15 for adults and £5 for under-16s and over-65s. When last season's 'Golden Tickets' were put on sale, season ticket holders were told that they would be compensated and this move by the club has not been well received by the faithful, some of whom now regret buying a season ticket.
Latics CEO Neil Joy said the decision to prevent season ticket holders using their voucher was not taken lightly. He explained, “That was a decision we made due to the additional policing costs involved because we are playing Manchester City. It is not a decision we would have made unless we had to.” City supporters have been given the whole of the Rochdale Road stand.