Saturday 18th November 2023

The 1878 Stadium, Burnham SL1 8JG

Southall v. Guernsey 

Rain. Rain and more Rain. Grass pitches unplayable. Only one thing for it, search out an artificial surface.

So today it's Burnham (Bucks) and a home game for tenants Southall against international visitors. Earlier kick-off at 1pm to work around The Green Lions travel plans.

Rattler to Reading then a quick jaunt on the Elizabeth Line up to Burnham (Beeches not On-Crouch or On-Sea)

Google Maps says it's a 38 minute walk from station to ground - challenge accepted. A quick Costa stop mid-walk to supercharge the Reeboks and my drizzly semi-detached suburban stroll is done - time 34 minutes. I rule.(Note to local council: please repair all the holes in your pavements - I'm wetter than an otter's pocket.)

Tidy clubhouse, with a well stocked bar, hot foods, artisan coffees and Sky Sports - all the fun of the fair.

Stadium itself, compact with a main stand housing dressing rooms and clubhouse, both ends open and one covered standing area close to the dug outs.

Surface is the version with the bobbly rubber bits (stop me if I get too technical).

Today it's 2nd v 20th , not much to choose between the sides early on. Southall opening the scoring on 27 minutes. A competitive second half saw the visitors level after 64.

Guernsey did just enough on the day to earn a point and should have enough to stay up. Southall will feel it's two points dropped.

Hopefully Southall can get themselves back to their local borough to help the hearty souls who travel to Buckinghamshire for a home match. 32 years since you lost your spiritual home - I wish you well.

Thanks to all I chatted with today, may your seasons flourish and your club loyalty remain unbounded.

Hopefully I'll be able to get a trip to your island soon,  Green Lion followers.

{Sidenote: Half-time today , barely 12 minutes. Added time end of match, 3, least I have experienced this season. A cynical person might suggest both related to Guernsey having a plane to catch?}

[Final Score: 'The All 1 Lions 1]