I would have but he stayed in Southampton last night and was going to GunWharf Quays with his wife today so not at home and not on the internet. By phoning him he was able to go on line and buy his ticket, while it was available. Quite simple really.
I wouldnt go simple as I wouldnt go to the upper tiers but I understand your point although I dont agree with it. You must give STH the chance to buy their normal seats even for a very limited time say 6pm, just imho.
Simple existing STH in the seats available give them today to order a seat and at midnight open it to any STH and midnight tomorrow for general sale. If your too late tough as you had the chance. If they made that a general rule on reduced attendances people would soon catch on.