Cobblers defend ticket decision

Cardoza aims to secure a healthy FA Cup pay-day for the Cobblers

Northampton Town chairman David Cardoza has defended the decision to allow Southampton fans to occupy two sides of the Sixfields stadium.

The Saints are expected to bring around 2,500 supporters to the FA Cup tie between the clubs on 28 November.

They will be accommodated in the South and Alwyn Hargrave stands at the Cobblers' home ground.

"We have a duty to try and maximise income from this game to protect the viability of the club," Cardoza said.

"The decision was made after lengthy discussions between the two clubs with a view to increasing the attendance and to give the maximum number of people an opportunity to watch the match.

"Southampton have agreed to guarantee the cost of 2,000 ticket sales," he added.

"We will be writing or emailing all [Northampton] season ticket holders affected by this to explain in detail why this decision was made, and to confirm arrangements."