The company behind the programme designed to move North Standers to the South Stand have said their product worked perfectly based on what they were asked to provide. Stowmarket based Data Factors, leaders in their field, said that their programme did exactly what it was designed to do.

Managing director Pat Bernstein said: "The software worked perectly, was exactly what was ordered by Ipswich Town and was developed within schedule. But, software or no software, because of the difference in the two stands, it was impossible to accommodate the needs of every individual. Perhaps this should have been stessed more to fans."

Supporters were led to believe that they would be moved across sat with their regular supporting cohorts. However, when season tickets started to arrive it quickly became apparent that this was not the case. Although people were sat next to their friends and family, the people usually in front or behind were likely to be a hundred seats or so away.

Mr Bernstein continued: "We don't want to get into a slanging match with Ipswich Town because they are good customers - our first football club - and we have had a long relationship. But we carried out this work to the best of our ability and to the club's rules."

However, it seems a better solution to the problem which kept groups of fans together may have been viable. Mr Bernstin says that another more complex piece of software could have been written "if the club had requested it."

A spokeswoman for the club said: "In no way do we blame the software company."

The club have now agreed to allow fans to return to the North Stand as soon as the lower tier is complete, probably for the West Ham game on October 27th.

James Pullen played for Blackpool last night as the Seasiders drew 2-2 with Athletic Bilbao. The Town fourth choice keeper was a second half sub and impressed with his kicking.

Phil Trow from Blackpool site www.avftt.com says: "He played the second half. The most noticable thing was that he's got a great kick (launching a goal kick effortlessly in to their box)."

"I think he was quite phased by the occasion as he looked a little unsteady when collecting balls and when dealing with back passes, but I would've thought, because we are so desperate for a reserve keeper and with the season a few days away, that Macca [manager Steve McMahon] may well try and get him on loan."

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