Supporters buying alcohol at games are putting fans off going to Aviva stadium

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It's claimed thousands of rugby fans have stopped going to the Aviva stadium due to supporters buying alcohol during games.

A new IRFU survey has found almost seven in 10 supporters would oppose restrictions on bringing drink into the stadium when matches are on.

25% said people getting up and coming back with alcohol diminished their experience of the game.

The IRFU is opting against imposing restrictions on buying drink during games, but will run a campaign advising supporters to be mindful of others when leaving and returning to their seats.

Gerry Thornley, Rugby Correspondent with the Irish Times, says an alcohol-free section of the Aviva could be trialed:

"They tried that in Wales, I don't think it had a huge affect, they had similar problems at the principality stadium. It's worth a try, interesting to see what the findings might be."

"I can't image that this 25% who are disaffected with the experience at the moment will be corralled into one corner of the ground."