Rebel Reds backed by armchair army

Source: M.E.N.

paul gallagher
9/ 3/2007

FC United have an armchair army of 48,000 fans backing the club every week, according to new TV ratings figures.

The Rebels - who are breaking all crowd records in the amateur league - are also winning over a large following in Greater Manchester's living rooms.

Official ratings figures have shown an impressive audience for the FCUM TV show - which features match highlights and interviews with manager Karl Marginson and his players.

The programme is watched by 48,000 people each week on Channel M, making it the station's fourth-most popular show.

A team of producers and cameramen follows FC United at home and away matches to make the programme and also broadcast live commentary on the internet.

FC United are leading the NWCFL Division One and will play against 16th-placed Squires Gate from Blackpool tomorrow It is an away fixture for FC but the match has been moved to the Tameside Stadium, home of Curzon Ashton.

The breakaway Reds scored their biggest win of the season when the two sides met at Gigg Lane in October, with Rory Patterson scoring four and Stuart Rudd hitting a hat-trick in an 8-0 victory.