by The Cube »
30 Jul 2007 22:31
OK, I really don't know why I'm bothering to argue with someone who quite clearly can't read but I'm going to have one last attempt.
1. Width of Withdean pitch
I was not basing my earlier statement on the panorama photo, but on my previous visit (as was clear if you had bothered to read it). I have since seen TV pictures from Saturday's game and now know for certain that the layout is the same now as it was in 2002. So tell me which of the following you disagree with:
(a) Width of penalty area is 44 yards (18 on either side of the goal plus 8 for the goal itself).
(b) Distance between corner flag and hash mark is 10 yards.
(c) Estimated distance between hash mark and penalty area 1.5 yards.
(d) Total width of pitch = 44 + 10 +10 + 1.5 + 1.5 yards = 67 yards.
2. The difference between the Laws of the Game and Football League regulations
There are 17 laws of the game, which change rarely, and one of which includes a statement that a pitch must be at least 50 yards wide. No-one disputes that Brighton comply with that law. These laws can be found in many places including the Football League website.
There are in addition rules that apply to football competitions. For example, a Football League rule states that three points are given for a win, although I appreciate that's something a Brighton fan will have to take on trust. Now, I can't find a current list of all Football League regulations, but I have found a document from July 2006 stating the conditions for entry to the Football League at
http://www.football-league.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Publications/0,,10794,00.html
This includes the following:
13.1 The dimension of the field of play for all League organised matches shall be as follows:
Maximum length 120yds (110 metres)
Minimum length 110yds (100 metres)
Maximum width 80yds (75 metres)
Minimum width 70yds (64 metres)
3. Brighton breaking the rules.
Width of Withdean pitch 67 yards
Football League minimum 70 yards
Q.E.D.
4. Fans from other clubs that post on here
Let's just think about this for a moment. You're a supporter of a crappy little League 2 club, temporarily punching above its weight in League 1. Why would you frequent a Premier League club's messageboard? Oh yes, because the two clubs meet in a pre-season friendly and you want to show everyone how stupid you are.
Seagullette - don't bother to reply unless you include a grovelling apology.