Blinded by The Stadium of Light
Stadium of Light, Sunderland SR5 1SU
Friday 22nd September 2023
England Women v. Scotland Women
Ok so today's a bit special. I've been timing it so this is a landmark fixture and thus becomes my 200th recorded ground visit on the superb Futbology App. It may be that I've missed a few grounds from years back but, hey I may find that out in the future but for now let's celebrate 200.
Very much a different vibe from the hops in and around my home area. This involved a mass of planning with stupid priced trains and finding the cheapest option between Airbnb/Travelodge/Premier Inn.
I'll set the scene for my decision to purchase the ticket for this game. I had seen the Lionesses in their previous two fixtures on home soil (at Brentford & Milton Keynes) but neither time had the team scored. Add to that since those games there's been the little matter of a World Cup in Australia.
At the time I booked todays ticket, I was convinced this match in Sunderland would be a welcome home for the new World Champions, and I just HAD to be there. Sadly, it wasn't to be and the squad came home as plucky runners up.
So onto the journey. Early alarm down to my local station to get an early departure to make it in time for my LNER service 830am. Bonus meeting with cricket legend Ryan Sidebottom at Costa Coffee Kings Cross. Nice chat with Sid before he got his skates on for his train home to Boro.
Some delays meant that unexpected stops at Northallerton and Thornaby, both places I only thought existed in Chris Rea songs.
Eventually into Sunderland and well in time for a walk around the stadium. Had a few hours to spare so took a pilgrimage back to the site of the old SAFC ground - Roker Park. Now another housing estate, a friendly local told me that the children's roundabout marked is where the centre circle was , but no plaque to confirm.
Sun was out so took advantage and a nice stroll to Seaburn & Roker Beaches to enjoy a cheeky fish and chips.
Blog more about a day's journey really , so I'll summarise the stadium - fairly identikit modern lay out akin to those of it's vintage. People super friendly. Great match atmosphere for The Lionesses, such a joy to be a part of the crowd for a Women's International.
[Final Score: England 2 Scotland 1]
