SOUTHEND United have permission to stage Saturday’s match against Oldham Athletic - but the attendance could be lower than normal .

Blues were given a safety certificate on Monday to confirm they could host the opening match of the season at Roots Hall.

However, supporters are split on whether or not they should attend.

An Echosport poll, which attracted 1,800 votes, revealed 52.3 per cent of fans plan to go the match as normal.

But Ryan Stubbs, who has watched Blues for 21 years, will be among those not in attendance due to the way the chairman Ron Martin continues to run the club.

He explained: “It’s been a tough decision and one that’s deprived me of watching the team that I love.

“But I will not step foot in Roots Hall and I will not spend any money that will end up in Ron Martin’s pocket.

“Whilst I believe that Kevin Maher and the players deserve nothing but our full support I feel that protesting through absence is one way in which Ron might take note.

“I would never tell anyone that they should follow my decision but it’s one I think would work better if many more did.”

Ian Holmes has not missed a Blues’ home match in 20 years.

But he will not be watching this weekend.

“I will miss my first home game for over 20 years,” said Holmes.

“I am not prepared to give any more of my money to Ron Martin or any business associated with him.

“I have missed maybe 10 home matches since 1967 when my late father was appointed club secretary but I have not renewed my season ticket this year.

“I will continue to attend away matches and will return to Roots Hall once Ron Martin is no longer associated with the club.”

Blues averaged 6, 040 supporters at Roots Hall last season and a number of fans will still be in attendance to get behind Kevin Maher and his players.

Keen supporter Scott Barber said: “All summer we feared that our club was going to go out of business before August.

“It’s still here and for that reason I simply cannot turn down the chance to be with my friends, family and have a nice few cold beers before walking through the turnstiles to support my club.

“But whatever your decision, there is no right or wrong and fans cannot be penalised either way.”