Matchday 82 was a special occasion as Amanda (Mum/wife) joined us for what we hoped would be an early birthday celebration for me. The journey to Burton, less than 40 miles away, began with cautious planning due to the notoriously challenging roads and motorways near our home. I aimed to set off by 17:00, and despite Liam’s football practice, we managed to hit the road by 16:45. This early start proved crucial, as a severe accident on the M6 compounded the typical rush hour traffic. Despite these challenges, we impressively arrived in Burton by 18:45.
The journey was made even more difficult by poor weather conditions, with heavy fog and light rain impacting visibility. The dense fog created a sense of uncertainty, making it necessary to drive at reduced speeds for safety. Finding local parking proved tricky, especially with warning signs in nearby residential areas indicating potential restrictions and fines. Ultimately, we opted for dedicated football parking in an industrial estate adjacent to the stadium. The cost was only £5.00, and the ample, secure parking provided peace of mind, allowing us to focus on enjoying the evening ahead.
After parking, we crossed the busy road and headed straight to the club shop to purchase our customary scarf and matchday program. The club shop was buzzing with fans, and the friendly atmosphere added to the excitement of the evening. We then proceeded to our stand, passed through a bag check, and scanned our digital mobile tickets at the turnstiles. The process was efficient and well-organized, reflecting the club’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for supporters. Once inside, a quick stop at the toilets was followed by locating our seats in the Carling Stand, the only seating area at the Pirelli Stadium. Our seats were nearly at the centre of the pitch and just four rows from the front, providing an excellent view of the game.
While Liam wandered off to record his VLOG, Amanda and I watched the players warming up beneath a dense fog that blanketed the pitch. The atmosphere was unique, with the heavy mist adding an almost cinematic quality to the scene. The players’ movements were slightly obscured, creating an air of suspense as they prepared for the match.
Shortly after Liam returned, a Burton Albion staff member approached him and asked if he would like to be a flag bearer. With a delighted smile, Liam eagerly accepted. Ten minutes later, he was called over, and he thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was a delightful surprise that exemplified the welcoming and community-focused spirit of lower league clubs. Watching Liam take part in this special moment was heartwarming, and it reinforced our appreciation for how these clubs create unforgettable experiences for young fans.
The match itself was evenly contested, with both teams playing end-to-end football. Although Crawley Town dominated possession for long stretches, there were only five shots on target between the two sides. This lack of clinical finishing led to a second consecutive goalless draw—not the result we had hoped for, but the energy and commitment on display made for an engaging spectacle. The crowd remained supportive, cheering on their respective teams despite the lack of goals.
Fortunately, the journey home was much smoother, taking only an hour to return. The clear roads and improved weather conditions made for a relaxing drive, allowing us to reflect on the evening’s highlights and Liam’s unexpected opportunity as a flag bearer.
Five Facts About Burton Albion:
- Founded in 1950: Burton Albion was established in 1950 and has grown from a non-league team to a club competing in the English Football League (EFL).
- Nicknamed “The Brewers”: The club’s nickname, “The Brewers,” reflects Burton upon Trent’s rich history in the brewing industry.
- Pirelli Stadium: Burton Albion’s home ground, the Pirelli Stadium, was opened in 2005 and has a capacity of approximately 6,900.
- First Promotion to the EFL: Burton Albion achieved their first promotion to the Football League in 2009 after winning the Conference Premier (now known as the National League).
- Championship Stint: The club reached the second tier of English football, the Championship, for the first time in their history in 2016 and stayed there for two seasons.
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