The answer to both bits is - AYE.
just do it. This is (should be) a consumer oriented business. f**k'em, if they've f**ked up.
So it's AYE - except for turning up early bit.
go down have some beer, arrive whenever you wish, pre-match.
If you have bought a ticket and entry is not enabled by them, then complain, ask for reimbursement and costs, reparation and damages.
all this knicker-wetting never happened in the olden days...