Blackpool Vs Northampton Town

 

Matchday 84 kicked off with an early breakfast at our local Greggs, where Liam and I fueled up for the day ahead. Liam enjoyed his bacon roll with red sauce, while I opted for brown sauce. Accompanied by a hot chocolate for Liam and a cappuccino for me, we set off for Blackpool up the M6. Traffic was on our side, allowing us to complete the journey in just under 2 hours and 20 minutes, despite the rain that accompanied us most of the way. Thankfully, the weather cleared up as we arrived.

Finding parking right outside the stadium for only £7 was a bonus, providing easy access to the motorway. After registering on the parking app, we took advantage of our early arrival, heading to the club shop for our matchday scarf and program, avoiding any queues.

Outside the shop, we spotted a Toyota-sponsored competition: guess the number of inflatable footballs in a car. Liam took part, and we then returned to the car to safely store our program. Next, we made our way to the promenade, braving the biting cold and gusty wind. Liam wrapped his scarf tightly for warmth.

Hunting for food, we bypassed the “Cod Father” chip shop and settled at “Mother Hubbard’s” for chips, choosing to eat indoors to avoid the hovering seagulls. The wait was worth it as we were served generous portions for £2.95 each. Warmed up and satisfied, we took a brisk walk to the “Velvet Coaster,” a sprawling Wetherspoons bustling with people. Though only outdoor seating was available, we squeezed in a quick visit to tick off my 49th Wetherspoons. I ordered a Doom Bar while Liam sipped on orange juice.

In touch with Blackpool’s club team, I arranged for Liam to receive a first-visit certificate if we arrived by 14:30. We walked back carefully to the stadium by 14:10. To our surprise, our seats were right by the car park—ideal for a fast exit. After clearing the bag check, we settled into our seats, which offered a perfect view.

Liam recorded his VLOG while I watched the warm-up. At 14:25, “Bloomfield Bear,” the mascot, approached with Liam’s certificate. Liam was overjoyed by the unexpected gesture, making it a moment we’ll cherish forever. The stadium filled slowly as fans arrived, and another Remembrance silence was observed, complete with the “Last Post” and respectful applause.

The opposite stand was sparse, with only a few Northampton fans in attendance. The atmosphere from both sets of supporters was muted, matching the on-pitch action. The cold, biting wind inside the ground made it even tougher, so mid-first half, I grabbed a coffee and hot chocolate with no wait.

The game itself was disappointing, ending in a 0-0 draw—our fourth consecutive draw and arguably the least engaging. Injuries disrupted play frequently, leading to 8 minutes of added time in the first half and 6 in the second.

To avoid potential road closures, we left at the 85th minute, making a quick stop at the toilets before heading straight to the car. The exit was smooth, and we were back on the road, arriving home by 19:15 after a slightly longer return journey of just over 2 hours and 30 minutes.

5 Facts About Blackpool FC

1. Blackpool FC won their only FA Cup in 1953, famously known as the “Matthews Final.”
2. The club’s iconic tangerine kit has been a staple since 1923.
3. Football legend Stanley Matthews not only played for but also managed Blackpool FC.
4. Blackpool FC was founded in 1887 and has a rich history in English football.
5. Bloomfield Road, their home ground, is the oldest football stadium in the Football League.