As the gaps were dotted about the place, you're probably nearer the truth - being RL that didn't occur to me. I was talking to a Stoke supporter at Wrexham yesterday (!) who said that when it's a televised game there some supporters watch it on the TVs in the concourse as you're not allowed to take alcohol back to the seats.

well,before the hospitality lounge was open this season the seats were always occupied by the sponsors, visiting club members and the like ,players & WAGS etc but now it's completely empty - the players not taking part in the game (injured or dropped etc) are usually seconded to the hospitality lounge to look after the sponsors etc - it's good business for the club but strange to see so many empty seats !