Originally Posted by lrdpenn

If a seat doesn't open, ask a checkin agent when arriving at the airport if they can code you as "DSR"/standby first class passenger on the standby list so you are listed higher. They might not know what you are asking for, but worth trying.

You can ask the gate too but most gate agents will be unhelpful. Better luck to be found elsewhere.

As noted the refund will be so small it's almost not worth pursuing. So the best outcome would be getting into F on the flight.