While Toronto FC lost to the San Jose Earthquake 3-2 on Saturday, September 25, their fans in section 127 of BMO Field better known as the North End Elite protested the ticket price increases slated for next season.Glenn Lowson
After missing the playoffs for the four years of its existence, Toronto FC has pledged to hold prices firm in 2012 for season-ticket holders who renew their seats for 2011 by the club-imposed deadline.
"So they are still going ahead with the 30-per-cent price increase for next year but if we act fast we can pay the same price for 2012!" said a note of response on the Major League Soccer club's website. "If not, be prepared to pay even more. It would be hilarious if it wasn't so sad. ... Thanks, but no thanks MLSE [TFC's corporate owner] You won't be getting my money any longer for such a poor product!"
Another supporter called the pricing gesture "sneaky, sneaky stuff. ... It's nice to see they're listening and they know we're disappointed, we still have to watch and be wary of these things."
TFC plays its season finale at RFK Stadium against DC United on Saturday night. United striker Jaime Moreno, the league's career leading scorer, plans to retire after this season.
United, also a disappointment this season, defeated TFC 1-0 at BMO Field on Sept. 11. That loss damaged TFC's hopes for a playoff berth, and led immediately to the firing of head coach Preki and director of soccer Mo Johnston. The side has won only twice in nine games since.
In a letter to fans on TFC's website, signed by four executives, TFC stated the club "has let you down on and off the pitch." After a series of town-hall meetings, the club said it would try to "create a winning culture;" and solve transportation headaches around BMO Field on game days.
Another respondent urged management to work on the BMO Field seating plan: "Hopefully next year when I try to give tickets away people won't laugh in my face."
"Thank you for listening to seven sessions of really angry middle-age men tell you how stupid you are," said another note.