OXFORD United fans have cheered the introduction of a dedicated singing section at the Kassam Stadium.

The idea came about after talks between the club and fans’ group the Yellow Army over the scheme to boost the atmosphere at home games.

It means vocal fans will be able to join together at the heart of the Kassam Stadium’s East Stand to spur on their team and generate songs.

A section of 100 seats in the middle of the stand have been allocated to the so-called “Yellow Noise” section.

United head coach Gary Waddock said: “The Yellow Army are superb in backing the team and it makes such a difference to the players when they run out of the tunnel to a wall of yellow and blue.

“The backing the Yellow Army gives the team throughout games really does play an important part in driving them on.

“I think the Yellow Noise initiative is an excellent idea and I hope it really takes off, it’s fantastic to see the fans and club working together.”

The club has said that that since the introduction of all-seater stadiums a lot of fans have found it difficult to keep songs going, as fans who enjoy singing are often split up.

The section of seats will be in Block 18 rows V, W, X and Y.

Fans can now buy season tickets there or have their existing season tickets moved to the area.

Seats in the section will be unreserved to make it easier for U’s fans to team up and to allow supporters to buy match-day tickets, but fans will be asked to respect those who already have season tickets in the area and do not wish to move.

Greig Box Turnbull, of the Yellow Army, said: “A big part of the Yellow Army’s work is striving to find ways to improve the match-day experience for us fans.

“We all miss terracing, so really having a confirmed singing section is the next best thing and can only help improve the atmosphere.

“Similar schemes have been very successful at other clubs, including Arsenal and Watford.

“Football is all about passion and unity and showing what our club means to us every week in the way we support our team.”

Fellow Yellow Army member Joe Nicholls added: “This is the result of talking to fellow fans and really getting the Yellow Army message across to the club. It's a big opportunity for us.

“The club have listened and responded, so now it's up to United fans to make it work and to make the most of it. If the atmosphere could get going a bit more at home games, it would lift match-days for everyone.

“There’s nothing better than a match-day when the Yellow Army is in full voice, together.

“This will help us lift the atmosphere – I'm looking forward to the new season and can't wait to be a part of it.”

s Fans can buy their season ticket for the Yellow Noise section, or move their existing season ticket to the section, by calling the ticket office on 01865 337533.

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