We did and done it, even made it a Saturday so it would be easier for fans, we took about 40 down because "we should protest in Cov" "it won't make any difference" "I'm washing my hair" in fact every excuse under the sun not to go. Then those same fans said it wasn't a success because only 40 went.
Interestingly, a lot of other fans e mailed the trust with not only support but also financial support with the cost towards the coach etc that couldn't attend.
The problem is, it's about perception.
Media attention by itself isn't sufficient, and small bunch of people outside Sixfields doesn't give the right media attention. In saying this, I understand fully why you'd want to do this, and why it was done so it's a bit unfortunate to use this one as an example - in itself I understand the point and the desire to do it quickly, I also understand the time and distance limitations would stop it being a big group.
But... it's how the debate is framed. It's OK dismissing the perception of 'nobody bothered' by saying 'ah, but others were and said so' as that doesn't help any more than snide comments. The aim of all of us is surely to try and get something that we all believe in, all follow, that makes a positive impact that stops the likes of psgm (although i hope he's the extreme example ;-) ) pointing fingers in return. What's dangerous is 'apathy' breeds apathy. Have sparsely attended protests, and it encourages those sitting on the fence to think 'nobody's bothered, so why should I be?'
So... media events are the way forward, but rather than a general question about 'do you support protest' which allows for people to say YES and do nothing, it might be worth drawing together some of the more sensible ideas, offering a 150 word synopsis for each, asking members if they would physically commit to supporting *this* event (and, more, would they be prepared to stump up some cash to support it?)
Naturally there'd be wastage in the numbers who said yes when it came to it, but it'd give you a clearer idea what type of protest should be arranged. A step back to step forward could be useful, to start building the momentum.
I'd also be designing a survey to ask those members who haven't/won't turn up to protests why.
I'd also be designing a survey for non sky blue trust members about why they aren't members, and what the trust could do to encourage them to become members.
This might be a long game, and while I understand the need for ad-hoc on this particular occasion, it does leave open to the criticism that nobody cares.
When clearly, many do!