Topic: Gazette: Doug Smock: This time, Herd able to shake off slow start

[ZackUSAF82]

MIAMI — Marshall’s sluggish start against Florida International didn’t surprise me a bit, and it shouldn’t have shocked its green-clad following.

All the signs were there.

The first was the game site, and it had nothing to do with FIU Stadium. The loudest noises came from (a) Marshall fans and (b) the public-address announcer yelling, “Let’s rattle The Cage!”

Rather it was that homecoming thing. It was the Thundering Herd’s third visit to south Florida in two seasons, and coach Doc Holliday’s Miami contingent loves it. The players get a few hours Friday evening to visit with family and friends before the team sequesters itself.

“Our hotel last night was like a family reunion,” Holliday said. “We had 100 families over there, and it was great.”

Link: http://www.wvgazette.com/article/20141019/GZ02/141019115/1144

[_sturt_]

THIS is how you take a shot at a conference member and its facilities... pointedly said, but buried at the bottom.

[lovetheherd2]

They do have a patio with beer sales over looking the visitors seating area.

But the concession area is rough and understaffed. The men's bathroom was insufficient for the number of fans and by halftime had plumbing issues (over flowing units) and lack of soap & towels.

Their chair back seats were 75% or more empty on both sides. Some areas of the rest of the complex were modern with nice art sculptures and landscaping.

The head coach needs more support from the AD for facilities.