[Archived] Next protest

[Darwen_Blue]

Just had an email from Paul Hunt who has agreed to call me tomorrow, Hopefully it will be productive and its certainly a step in the right direction

Good to hear he is going to engage with you but I still feel if Venky's are making plans to invest in Jan with him then they are not even considering getting shut.

Also I would be willing to donate to any serious ideas.

[glen9mullan]

Just had confirmation that my details and an open plea has been given to Willie Mackay the agent of E H Diouf, to pass onto Diouf to see if he will support the supporters cause regarding rovers current position, Fingers crossed

[T4E]

Diouf supporting our cause? Wont that do more harm than good? Who exactly do you think is going to take El Hadji Diouf seriously?

Potentially a major own goal there Glen, have a good think about that one before you implement anything.

[Mattyblue]

Exactly.

Always a player I enjoyed watching, however a lot of Rovers fans think the bloke is a to$$pott and the wider game, well, say no more!

[Seggie]

Exactly.

Always a player I enjoyed watching, however a lot of Rovers fans think the bloke is a to$$pott and the wider game, well, say no more!

But has a first hand idea what is going on at Ewood both before and after Kean and Venky's

[glen9mullan]

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 29/11/ 2011

Blackburn Rovers Supporters planned protest

Saturday 3^rd December v Swansea City at Ewood Park.

The supporters of Blackburn Rovers intend to carry out further protest this coming Saturday Before, during and After the Premiership Fixture with Swansea City. For nearly 3 months the supporters have been calling for the removal of first team Manager Steve Kean who has managed only 1 Premiership victory out of 13 this season. The team currently sits bottom of the Barclays Premiership, and History suggest Blackburn Rovers future as a Premiership team is firmly now in serious doubt. This is worst start to a season the club has made since the Premiership was formed and the team is has also failed to keep a clean sheet in its last 16 league Fixtures.

This week the Manager has said publically that he would meet with unhappy supporters. This is the second time the Manager has made this statement, the first time was on Sky Sports News the day after Blackburn Rovers only victory this season. He accepted an invitation from protest organiser Glen Mullan, however to date this meeting has not taken place.

The protest organisers have for 3 months tried to secure meetings with Steve Kean, The Board of directors at Blackburn Rovers And also the club owners Venkys. To date every avenue has been explored however the club has failed to acknowledge these plea’s and no common ground has been found so no meetings have taken place.

Throughout the last three months the organisers of the protest have made themselves available at all times to the club should they wish to discuss a way forward to bring an end to protest, however the club has refused to open up dialogue.

Following poor displays away at Wigan and Stoke where protest for the first time took place during the game, it’s the intention of the majority of supporters to protest, Win, Lose or Draw come Saturday.

Although Steve Kean’s results are unacceptable, we acknowledge that he currently is the only employee of Blackburn Rovers who is both facing the media, and also answering questions due to no-one within the club either willing to, or no-one in the club taking responsibility for the shambles which our club has become behind the scenes.

Supporters want answers from both the Board of Directors and also from Venkys. Protest will not stop until the club agrees to answer the majority of supporters concerns.

These concerns include:

· Why has Venkys taken out mortgages on future income and put none of their own wealth into the club?

· What is Jerome Anderson’s role at the club?

· Who is identifying player targets for the club?

· Why does no-one employed by Venkys here in England including the board not know the answers to the questions posed to them on the 4^th November?

· How cut adrift at the bottom of the league does our club have to be before Steve Kean is removed as Manager of Blackburn Rovers?

· Why has Chief Decision make Mrs A Desai only been to Blackburn once in over 12 months?

· Why do we not have a chairman?

· Why do we not have a Chief Executive?

· Why have the club replaced employees who are widely recognised as some of the best in the modern game and replaced them with inexperienced individuals?

· Who owns Blackburn Rovers?

· Who owns Ewood Park and the training ground, and is it mortgaged and if so why?

· Why has the club denied the bid from Qataris when the Qatar Company insist a bid was made?

· What is the clubs contingency plan should we get relegated?

· Why will the board and Venkys not meet with supporters to listen to these concerns?

· Why has the club tried to ban supporter’s freedom of speech, by banning banners and yellow garments from Ewood Park?

· Why does the Manager insist on saying a majority of supporters are fully behind him when all evidence suggest otherwise?

· Why have the club planted seeds with statements that have brought violence to the stands at Ewood Park?

· Why has someone at Ewood Park passed the protest organisers personal details to individuals who have resulted in threats, and one assault to date?

· Why did the club not remove a R.I.P Banner with Glen Mullan’s name on which was attached to Blackburn Rovers ground Ewood Park for over 6 hours?

· Why have the club not made public the minutes of an interim meeting which took place on the 2^nd November with 8 supporters?

· Why have the club not arranged the meeting with the board which was J Newshams recommendation following the interim meeting?

· Why did Venkys agree to refund a few supporters who travelled to Pune independently during their exhibition tour, and to date those individuals have not received a refund?

· Why has our principle sponsor had to go public about his concerns and the clubs lack of communication?

· Why did the club not manage to secure a paying sponsor for this year’s replica shirts?

· Why has the club been saying for 5 months that Junior Hoillet’s contract is as good as signed and still it appears no closer?

· Why does Venkys have no daily presence here in the UK involved in the day to day running of the club?

· Why did the owners leave at Half-time during the recent Wigan Athletic Fixture

· Why was Steve Kean rewarded with a new contract, when our league position and his performance of just 6 wins in 34 games is one of the worst the league has ever witnessed?

· What is the Role of Steve Kean at Ewood Park, as the club have confirmed he does not communicate with them and answers directly to Pune?

· Why have all our accounts been removed from the UK and moved over to India

The plan for Saturday

Supporters will assemble outside Ewood Park from 14.30 to call for Venkys to sell the club and for the removal of Steve Kean. This will then be taken into the ground where for 90 minutes the chants will continue. The supporters have been advised any banners will be removed by the stewards. Following the game win, lose or draw the supporters will continue to their demonstrations.

Supporters have been purchasing T-Shirts reading “100% Support the Players 0% Venkys and Kean. Over a thousand of these have been purchased to date and orders are being made daily. During the Stoke fixture supporters were told to remove these T-Shirts or they would be refused entry or ejected from the ground. This was another attempt by Blackburn Rovers to take away people’s freedom of speech and to entice the crowd to become hostile amongst each other. This was also evident at the Wigan Athletic fixture when Steve Kean gestured to the fans in a provocative way. After speaking with the Police they have advised me they will be opposing any plans by the club to remove the yellow T-shirts from supporters at a meeting on Wednesday. As this is seen as a step to far, there is no official word from the club on their plan of action this weekend.

Supporters are also purchasing Yellow and Black scarfs, these scarfs are aimed at the owners and their disapproval of how they are running the club. The general feeling amongst supporters is they wish Venkys to sell the club, if indeed they own it, and let someone who has the clubs best interest at heart take control.

A section of supporters will also take part in a concourse walk off during the game on Saturday in each stand. Supporters will make their way to the concourse area at an agreed time which will be kept amongst supporters.

Protest organisers Glen Mullan & Simon Littler Statement:

“These will be the most intense protests to date as the club has shown a total lack of respect to its paying customer. Communication from the Board of Directors, Venkys and Steve Kean has been zero since the club was bought over 12 months ago. No-one at Ewood Park seems willing to answer any questions or meet with any supporters to address these concerns. It is not clear who now makes decisions at Blackburn Rovers, whilst our club has become a shambles both on and off the pitch. Despite our best efforts over the last 3 months to open dialogue with the Owners and Board of directors the club has ignored all contact. We feel the club should be looking to work with supporters to bring a peaceful end to Protest, Supporters have always had an open door and willingness to open up discussions. It is the belief of many supporters that the club is not being run in accordance with Premier league guidelines and off the field activity could have a bigger bearing on the clubs future than that which is currently taking place on the pitch. We once again make an open plea to Venkys and the Board of Directors to have a meeting with the clubs supporters here in Blackburn and ease these concerns for the long term benefit of the supporter’s relationship with the club”

[Al]

Has this letter been sent out to the press yet?

Although in general it is very well presented and clear there are one or two grammatical errors that could easily be sorted before it is published.

Nevertheless it is an excellent document, if a trifle long.

[Kamy100]

While I fully agree with what the press statement and agree with all points raised it is evident that these protests are having little or no effect on the decision making process or the key decision maker Mrs Desai. For me Saturday is a huge game for Rovers, HUGE. It is a must win game, I personally think that the focus needs to be what is happening on the field and getting behind the team, protests during the game, particularly when scores are level, any protests at the stage is going to have a negative impact on the atmosphere and in turn on the players.

For me the focus on Saturday should be what happens on the pitch as Rovers desperately need to win the game and protests during the game, particularly if we are level or even winning aren't going to help that cause.

[glen9mullan]

Has this letter been sent out to the press yet?

Although in general it is very well presented and clear there are one or two grammatical errors that could easily be sorted before it is published.

Nevertheless it is an excellent document, if a trifle long.

I just copy n pasted it buddy, I have done a spell check now and given it some-one for proof reading

[Ralfinho]

While I fully agree with what the press statement and agree with all points raised it is evident that these protests are having little or no effect on the decision making process or the key decision maker Mrs Desai. For me Saturday is a huge game for Rovers, HUGE. It is a must win game, I personally think that the focus needs to be what is happening on the field and getting behind the team, protests during the game, particularly when scores are level, any protests at the stage is going to have a negative impact on the atmosphere and in turn on the players.

For me the focus on Saturday should be what happens on the pitch as Rovers desperately need to win the game and protests during the game, particularly if we are level or even winning aren't going to help that cause.

If most fans go into the concourse during the game then this will not have a negative effect on the players because attendances at low round carling cup games are so small but everyone walking away from their seats will be a more visual protest and I think thats a great idea

[Jimmy612]

Just listened to Talksport, well done Glenn, spoken very well, and got accross the point that protesters aren't the barbarians that they are made out to be.

As you mentioned on the radio, it isn't Kean we want answers from, were sick of his lies. We want answers from Venkys! Answers to questions such as the ones you posted in the protest plan.

My fear is that Venkys and Kean aren't actually willing to change anything at the club, Kean certainly won't want to change a thing at the moment, he's in complete control at Ewood, having ensured the removal of anyone more powerful than himself e.g. JW.

This must go above Kean if we stand any chance of change at Ewood, my gut feeling is that he would meet with fans, listen to absolutely nothing, and carry on runing our club. He doesn't care about BRFC. He only cares about himself.

[glen9mullan]

While I fully agree with what the press statement and agree with all points raised it is evident that these protests are having little or no effect on the decision making process or the key decision maker Mrs Desai. For me Saturday is a huge game for Rovers, HUGE. It is a must win game, I personally think that the focus needs to be what is happening on the field and getting behind the team, protests during the game, particularly when scores are level, any protests at the stage is going to have a negative impact on the atmosphere and in turn on the players.

For me the focus on Saturday should be what happens on the pitch as Rovers desperately need to win the game and protests during the game, particularly if we are level or even winning aren't going to help that cause.

I can understand your concerns mate, and I have explored all avenues this week including doing an operation 3 points to get everyone to put Kean and Venkys to one side for this week, however the near 2000 strong Facebook group were many protest are discussed do not want to let the pressure drop, When simon or I issue any press release or plans, it has to be in accordance with those who have been taking part, and their wishes. We always go with the majority and even sometimes it may not represent our opinion, but that is democracy

[Kelbo]

I hear what Kamy is saying, to a point he is correct but I feel Glen and Simon, along with the supporters have deserved better, I feel this football club has now been taken away from the people who support it and the Town of Blackburn, the only people to benefit are agents and the manager (as he would have been dismissed long ago at another club)

Who do these people at the club really think they are and questions are now being raised as to the actual ownership of Blackburn Rovers Football Club.

The National Media are now sitting up and taking notice and I can see the need to strike whilst the iron is hot which is the game v Swansea, the Club have given protestors very little option.

To conclude on this, I picked up that the club have released personal details of the organisors of these protests, I would like to add that this is indeed a criminal offence to provide these details and the threats issued to Glen, Simon and others suggests to me that someone at the Club has been 'rattled' and want to prevent any more digging, to those people I will say this, there are many more spades being brought out, the digging will continue until we rid this vermin from our football club.

[Darwen_Blue]

First they came for the Club,

and I didn't speak out because I wanted new owners.

Then they sacked Big Sam,

and I didn't speak out because I didn’t like his style of football.

Then they appointed Steve Kean

and I didn't speak out because I wanted to support the team and club.

Then we got relegated and now it' s to late to speak out.

Let’s take action before it’s to late.

100% ROVERS 0% KEAN VENKY’S

[Steve Kean's Hypnotoad]

How do we find out about this walk-off? Its bringing up images of Zoolander in my head Everything else sounds great, will have to get cracking on buying a t-shirt.

[glen9mullan]

How do we find out about this walk-off? Its bringing up images of Zoolander in my head Everything else sounds great, will have to get cracking on buying a t-shirt.

We will be giving more details later in the week

[Kamy100]

I can understand your concerns mate, and I have explored all avenues this week including doing an operation 3 points to get everyone to put Kean and Venkys to one side for this week, however the near 2000 strong Facebook group were many protest are discussed do not want to let the pressure drop, When simon or I issue any press release or plans, it has to be in accordance with those who have been taking part, and their wishes. We always go with the majority and even sometimes it may not represent our opinion, but that is democracy

I have no problems with what you are doing and if that is what the 2000 people on the facebook group want then it is cool. All I am saying is that there will be a large number of fans at Ewood who are just as angry at what is going on and will not want to take part in any protest that is going on during such a huge, must win game for Rovers. Especially if scores are level or Rovers are winning, it could lead to fans falling out with each other which is the last thing that we want.

If Rovers are losing you will see a natural protest develop (eg like what happened during the Man City game).

I fully agree with the points raised in your press release and these points need to be answered by Venky's but thus far they are not showing much indication of addressing the genuine concern of fans.

[Al]

I just copy n pasted it buddy, I have done a spell check now and given it some-one for proof reading

That's great Glen and thank you for all the time and trouble you have taken on our behalf.

[Torgeir]

I have no problems with what you are doing and if that is what the 2000 people on the facebook group want then it is cool. All I am saying is that there will be a large number of fans at Ewood who are just as angry at what is going on and will not want to take part in any protest that is going on during such a huge, must win game for Rovers. Especially if scores are level or Rovers are winning, it could lead to fans falling out with each other which is the last thing that we want.

If Rovers are losing you will see a natural protest develop (eg like what happened during the Man City game).

I fully agree with the points raised in your press release and these points need to be answered by Venky's but thus far they are not showing much indication of addressing the genuine concern of fans.

Don't you think the increased media attention this is now getting will help our cause? I see this as much bigger than a must-win game against Swansea, it's about ridding our club of the bubonic plague. With the clowns that are 'currently' running our club we will be going down anyway. If by some miracle not this season then surely the next. Let's not take our feet off the pedals.

[Tom]

I have no problems with what you are doing and if that is what the 2000 people on the facebook group want then it is cool. All I am saying is that there will be a large number of fans at Ewood who are just as angry at what is going on and will not want to take part in any protest that is going on during such a huge, must win game for Rovers. Especially if scores are level or Rovers are winning, it could lead to fans falling out with each other which is the last thing that we want.

If Rovers are losing you will see a natural protest develop (eg like what happened during the Man City game).

I fully agree with the points raised in your press release and these points need to be answered by Venky's but thus far they are not showing much indication of addressing the genuine concern of fans.

This is my view exactly and I would imagine that of the majority I expect sparks to fly on Saturday in the Blackburn end

Ive backed Glens passion all the way but now can see no reason why things need to be planned like this rather than letting it happen

[whalleyrover]

I have supported the protests from day 1, and will continue to do so, however i believe that Kamy and Tom have made some very valid comments. The atmosphere at Ewood on Saturday will be terrible and protest will be spontaneous. WE ALL WANT THE SAME THING - VENKYS OUT NOW - I URGE EVERYBODY TO EMBARK ON CALLS,E-MAILS AND LETTERS TO THE PRESS,CLUB,VENKYS,JACK STRAW,PREMIER LEAGUE,F.A.AND OTHER PARTIES. Bombard them from NOW.UNITED WE WILL WIN.

[PAFELL]

While I fully agree with what the press statement and agree with all points raised it is evident that these protests are having little or no effect on the decision making process or the key decision maker Mrs Desai. For me Saturday is a huge game for Rovers, HUGE. It is a must win game, I personally think that the focus needs to be what is happening on the field and getting behind the team, protests during the game, particularly when scores are level, any protests at the stage is going to have a negative impact on the atmosphere and in turn on the players.

For me the focus on Saturday should be what happens on the pitch as Rovers desperately need to win the game and protests during the game, particularly if we are level or even winning aren't going to help that cause.

Now your for it. I suggested that and got unjustly slated by many.

[Mattyblue]

You got slated paffell because you started to say Rovers fans are 'killing the team' and other such inflammatory outbursts

[DE.]

I agree with what kamy and Tom are saying in theory, however Saturday seems in many ways a lose-lose situation anyway. If we beat Swansea then Kean probably gets a new contract and another 5 or 6 months to prove himself (not sure if i'm exaggerating anymore), if we lose than we're as good as relegated anyway, even if Kean does get the chop. I've in many ways already resigned myself to us taking the drop as I don't believe the owners have what it takes to keep us in the division, and the manager certainly doesn't. For that reason I support the protests as they are - I'm just angry now, I have no hope.

[AllRoverAsia]

I have no problems with what you are doing and if that is what the 2000 people on the facebook group want then it is cool. All I am saying is that there will be a large number of fans at Ewood who are just as angry at what is going on and will not want to take part in any protest that is going on during such a huge, must win game for Rovers. Especially if scores are level or Rovers are winning, it could lead to fans falling out with each other which is the last thing that we want.

If Rovers are losing you will see a natural protest develop (eg like what happened during the Man City game).

I fully agree with the points raised in your press release and these points need to be answered by Venky's but thus far they are not showing much indication of addressing the genuine concern of fans.

Not only is this a must win game but it's also very winnable. I am ''anti-Kean & whomever our Owners are'' but I can only see protests during the game having a negative effect on the game as far as Rovers are concerned. If we are winning the majority of fans will be roaring the team on - if we are losing then IMO protests will develop naturally and with more participants.

The planned ''walk-off'' is a worry and could easily cause a lot of angry flashpoints around the ground. Seating at Ewood is IMO cramped at the best of times and when taking part in the walk-off you have to expect your seating neighbours to politely move to allow you to move out/in. Will they? Well that depends how the game is going and who your neighbours are......

I think you have fallen into the trap of trying to get too organised.