rgraham981

Good work on this new site by the way. I work as a graphic designer, and in my opinion this is a big improvement. I also think you've done a great job on the badge...

Not too much of a regular on here, but seeing as this is my line of work (design), I thought I'd add my money's worth. This design of the home kit has always troubled me, mainly for the basic reason it is red and blue, and bright red and blue at that. These two colours are difficult to get working well together, and apart from Crystal Palace, I can't really think of any other teams who have this combination as stripes. The reason Barca works so well is they are much more subtle tones, navy and ruby red, rather than the bright (garish) colours that we use. However, what is important is the history, and the pedigree of both clubs pre-merger should be celebrated. Its a difficult one, but a fair mix of red and blue it must be. That aside though, I think the main issue is consistency. An overall basic design should be decided on, stripes, blue shorts, red socks, whatever. But by changing the design every year in such fundamental ways really doesn't help things. This year's shirt for example has no consistency with last years in overall design, which is a real problem in my opinion. How do you keep faith in the jersey if it keeps changing design so drastically? And how do you expect any sense of recognition, especially with young kids if it keeps changing? Although I hate to say it, I can't help thinking of a cheap version of a Rangers shirt when I see this year's top. The main question should be then what is the overall design? How would you describe it in one sentence; "Red and blue vertical stripes with blue shorts and red socks" for example, and thats what the club should stick with. Every manufacturer will add a wee twist to it, depending on the style of kits they make, but the basis should remain the same. Thats the key. Anyone agree?

Pretty much a part time fan here, although I do grace the club with my ?20 on the gate whenever I get the chance. The point I was going to make was due to my recent experiences in London, living near Brisbane Road and having been to a couple of Leyton Orient matches recently. Its not a big club, and the football is nowhere close to the SPL standard in my opinion, but they do seem to get people through the door week in, week out. Not sell-out crowds, but decent nonetheless. Now, I know its in London with a huge population, but there are loads of other clubs right next door. The East End isn't exactly full of millionaires and the ?20 a ticket seems to be in line with games at the Longman, so its not like the cost is proving a factor. The one thing they do have though which I think really works is a social club/bar and proper shop in the main stand, which is packed for 2 hours before every game. Its basic and not anything exciting, but all the fans can meet before kick off and have a blether and beer or two without worrying about making it to the ground on time. And there are other pubs nearby which may disprove my theory, but as its under the main stand it is as easy as it can get ? and seems to work as its always busy before matches. I don't know if it would ever be possible, licensing laws etc, but what they have isn't exactly threatening, in fact I think they allow kids accompanied by adults as well. To me it doesn't seem the most difficult thing to do to build a bar (basic like), get a deal with a brewery for enough beer for once a fortnight, so if a license is attainable it would be a quick and easy way to give something back to the fans, rather than making them trek the whole way from the town desperate for a slash, as I had to last time I was up!

Sorry about the delay, been away on holiday. And no, thats not me... I'm from Kirkhill, moved away about 8 years ago. I was at school with Grant Munro funnily enough. Anyways, see you all at Tynecastle!!!

Yup, I am fond of a bit of rugby watching, but I'll be there on the 22nd all the same. But I'm not sure if I'm who you think I am... Thanks for the advice, I'm sure I'll sort it out nearer the time. I'll be there with my brother who stays in Edinbrugh and some pals. Diggars could be the one, I think I'll be in the festive spirit, and having finished work the previous day I'll be well up for a few before the game. Cheers, Ranald

Dear all, I grew up in Invernes but now live in London. I sometimes get to see games when I come to visit the folks, and just turn up and get a ticket at the gate. I'm coming up the road for Christmas and thought I might stop off on the way up and take in the game at Tynecastle. Obviously I want to be in the away end, any advice on how to arrange this? Do I get tickets through the supporter's club or what? Or can I just turn up at th egame in Edinburgh? I really don't have a clue! Cheers R