Seats at the Western Conference Final were left unoccupied as some fans did not get through security until half time
Columbus Crew SC are urging fans to arrive early for Sunday’s MLS Cup.
Tight security precautions saw fans still queuing outside at half time in the Western Conference final as tough security measures extended waiting times.
In the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris, unspecified security measures were added at sporting events and a Crew SC press release (in full below) warns that metal detectors will be used.
Entry times to the stadium might be lengthy and it would greatly benefit all spectators if people entered the stadium as early as possible.
COLUMBUS — Columbus Crew SC hosts Portland Timbers FC in the 2015 MLS Cup at MAPFRE Stadium on Sunday, December 6 at 4:00 p.m. ET. All supporters are encouraged to arrive early to the contest. Gates at MAPFRE Stadium will open at 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2015 MLS Cup (two hours prior to the match). The Heineken Star Lounge also opens to ticketed supporters inside the venue at 2:00 p.m. ET, and supporters are advised to be in their seats before 4:00 p.m. ET in order to experience the 2015 MLS Cup pre-match festivities.
MAPFRE Stadium added: “MAPFRE Stadium is proud to host Sunday’s historic 2015 MLS Cup between Crew SC and Portland and looks forward to a memorable and safe experience for all supporters in attendance. We are in constant collaboration with law enforcement and Major League Soccer on security protocol. MAPFRE Stadium continues to value the safety and security of all guests as its highest priority.
As part of our commitment to provide the safest environment possible, enhanced security procedures used out of an abundance of caution during the 2015 Eastern Conference Championship will remain in place for the 2015 MLS Cup, including the use of metal detectors at all points of entry.”
A complete list of MAPFRE Stadium policies is available here.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
– Chainsaws
– Logs of any wooden variety
– Aerosol or pressurized containers
– Air horns
– Bottles
– Cameras with detachable lenses
– Drones (remote controlled or unmanned aircraft systems)
– Firearms (regardless of concealed carry permit)
– Food or beverage of any kind
– Illegal substances
– Laser pointers
– Pyrotechnics, flares, smoke bombs, or incendiary devices
– Seat cushions with backs
– Video cameras
– Weapons of any kind
– Whistles
– Any item that can be used as a projectile or deemed as dangerous
For all supporters in attendance, please note that additional prohibited bags include, but are not limited to: coolers, backpacks, duffel bags or luggage of any kind. Permitted bags may not exceed 14″ x 6″ x 14″ and include camera bags, cinch sacks, diaper bags and purses.
All known available seats are sold out with Crew SC slated to once again expand capacity of MAPFRE Stadium via temporary bleachers on the stage of the north side of the venue.
