Blackpool fans deliver their verdict on return to Bloomfield Road for EFL test event

It saw 1,000 Pool supporters return to Bloomfield Road for the first time since March 10, a 193-day wait.

It was part of an EFL pilot event to assess the longer-term viability of supporters returning to stadiums in the Championship, League One and League Two.

Further test events are likely to take place this weekend, as long as the EFL receives government approval.

Fleetwood Town are among the clubs to have submitted an application to host fans at Highbury for their game against AFC Wimbledon next Saturday.

But how did the event look? And how did it differ to a normal league fixture?

Supporters were asked to observe social distancing procedures, with Blackpool setting out one-way systems to and from seats and certain blocks of the stadium.

Fans were also asked to wear face coverings when moving around the stadium, although this requirement was relaxed once people were in their seats.

Pool’s fans were still able to generate an impressive atmosphere despite being spread across the four stands.

They were suitably rewarded, the Seasiders earning a hard-earned victory thanks to CJ Hamilton’s brace, handing Neil Critchley his first competitive win as head coach.

We asked on Twitter what supporters had made of the day.

Leanne Smith: “There were no pies on sale which I was gutted about(!), but they gave everyone a free bottle of water which was nice. Stewards were helpful and explained everything clearly. I think it would work with another 1,000 providing everyone does as they're told!

Tangerine Chris: Felt like could comfortably handle double the numbers that were in, maybe more. Half time would be a pinch point if went much higher but was easy with just 1,000 there. Stewards deserve credit too, often don't necessarily help certain situations, but on Saturday they got it right.

Mark Berwick: One-way system was definitely the biggest difference. Other than that and the spread of fans around the ground it felt quite normal. The bottles of water were a godsend. Agree that if possible the club should look to let in the next 1,000 who renewed.

Tony Fretwell: Really well organised. Stewards great. Few email and ticket issues but the ticket staff were awesome. One-way system and toilets well managed. Problem with finding your seat as all the numbers have worn off. It worked because fans and stewards worked together. That’s the key.

Joe P: Well organised. Main differences were the one-way system and the concourse being shut for food and drinks. Overall, very good. Hope another 1,000 get the chance at the next home game.

Dave Walsh: Thought the club did a great job with hand sanitisers and one-way system in the ground. So much better than watching on iFollow! Hope more test events happen and other season ticket holders get to go. All in all thought it was very successful.

Don UTMP: Didn't see any hand sanitizer at my entrance (turnstile 3/4) but other than that everything was spot on. Few issues with the print at home tickets not scanning. Stewards were brilliant and the bottle of water was a nice touch. The next batch allowed in can go with confidence.

Alex Ashworth: Stewards were class! One-way system was very organised and fans followed all instructions. Queues to get in due to barcodes not scanning properly. Overall a successful day. Bring on the next batch.

Rob Walker: Not great. They gave me block Z (South East Corner) and it was absolutely disgusting! Pigeon droppings all over the place on the floor and on all the seats. Ended up moving seats. Emailed the club and got a standard response. Also raised it with the SLO.

Hannah Blackpool: Very well done by the club. Everyone seemed to abide by the rules. Hand sanitiser available when you entered the turnstile, one-way systems in place and stewards and staff very helpful! Worked well and felt safe. Bottle of water a nice touch also.

Dan Jones: Credit to all involved. Plenty of room for more fans next time whilst adhering to social distancing.

Carver: I thought it was well organised. Wasn’t so sure about not being allowed to stand up (safety reason), maybe you cannot catch COVID sat down. Think they are looking at 2.5k for the Lincoln City game. That could easily be done. Good atmosphere considering the numbers.

Kelly Anderson: Very well thought out. Stewards brilliant, didn’t get offered the water though which was a shame, would absolutely work with more fans in. Very impressed with the club.

David Lancaster: Very easy. Huge amount of stewards trying to cope with all the new instructions they needed to know for fans. There was more congestion when I went to Tesco the following morning, so I see no reason for this not to be expanded.

Andy Stout: Brilliant experience. The steward at turnstile 8 checked my name corresponded with the name printed on my ticket which I thought was good for track and trace. Hand sanitiser on table with bottles of free water. Stewards very helpful and one-way system worked well. Great success.

Sylvia Cleaver: It was a very surreal experience. I was very emotional as I walked into the stadium. There were clear directions of which way to go and the stewards at the turnstiles were very friendly and helpful . We sang, clapped and cheered - it was absolutely fantastic. Thank you Blackpool FC.