Yeovil Town’s Chief Operations Officer, Nicholas Brayne, has penned an open letter to supporters ahead of Saturday’s National League fixture against Gateshead, urging them to attend the 12:30 pm kick‑off at Huish Park.
DAZN’s National League Coverage
DAZN is broadcasting every National League match in August live on its NLTV service. Chief Executive Officer Shay Segev said the league “embodies everything that makes football special” and that the third season of exclusive coverage will see each club featured live more than 30 times. The broadcaster also shows all three National League divisions on the final day and the play‑offs, with a £14.99 NLTV season pass.
Brayne’s Concerns
Brayne wrote that the 12:30 pm start is earlier than the club would normally choose. He has previously warned that displaced kick‑off times in lower‑league football can affect attendance and matchday revenue without clubs receiving full compensation. “Our job at Yeovil is therefore to adapt and make the matchday experience as attractive as possible regardless of kick‑off time,” he added.
Despite his concerns, Brayne expressed full support for the National League’s broadcast strategy and its aim to grow the competition. He thanked supporters for the “tremendous backing” they gave the team at Huish Park, recalling the atmosphere of the match against Carlisle United as one of the largest home crowds during the club’s current ownership.
A Call to the Glovers
Brayne urged fans to “come out in numbers on Saturday and get behind Billy and the players.” He stressed that supporters should not be expected to turn up automatically, noting that football is an entertainment business and clubs have a responsibility to deliver a team that fans can identify with. He praised manager Billy for understanding fans and the club, and highlighted the players’ energy and the positive impact of the stands’ support.
The letter ends with a plea for fans to help create the atmosphere that can drive the team forward, reminding them that the club’s future depends on the collective enthusiasm of its supporters.
