‘This is a design flaw on the part of the stand’s designers’
It’s my second match of the day (after Hebburn) and I’m here to bear witness to the opening game of South Shields’ new 900 seater stand. A great day for all concerned, apart from one major issue – the exits at the front of the stand block the view of parts of the nearside of the pitch. It’s obviously a major cock-up, as a page in the programme offers apologies and that the stand’s architects are looking for a solution! My guess is they’ll just Perspex it, safety allowing. It’s a shame, as the stand, although no great looker, otherwise offers great views, as the seats are high above the touchline, allowing spectators to traverse at the front without impeding anyone’s view.
It’s e tenner to get in and I’m able to go wherever I like. Although the new stand dominates the venue, going the length of the pitch, the opposite side is a mish-mash of stands and structures which give the place some character, including a smaller stand with a terraced paddock in front. There’s also a marquee with bar. Both ends are serviced by small covered terraces (one only two steps deep). It’s all very cosy, and parked in the middle of an industrial estate a very long walk from South Shields proper.
I get there 10 minutes in, as even though Hebburn is just down the road, 10 minutes isn’t enough to drive there, park up and walk to the 1st Cloud Arena. First impressions are very good, as the floodlights light up in the club colours. My second impression is that I’ve missed a goal. IN fact, it turns out I’ve missed two. 10 minutes in and it’s one-all. Typical.
I’m looking forward to the game too, as opponents Buxton are one of Shields rivals in a close top 4, winners promoted, the rest play-offs. Except it’s not Buxton, it’s Hyde United, bottom half of the league. I can’t remember at which point I realised this, but probably half-time when I read the programme. By then the away team are 2-1 up, as a Shields backpass is never going to reach its intended target and United nip in to score.
Managed by ex-Stockport boss Jim Gannon, Hyde seem well coached in the ‘dark arts’ as the keeper in particular timewastes to perfection. Every time he has a free kick (Shields continually being caught offside) he waits, then calls to the ref…then the linesman…exactly where it needs to be taken from. Every time. I’m surprised the home fans don’t get on his, or the ref’s, case more. But there it is, a shock home defeat and title hopes derailed, for now.
The Damage:
£10 ent
£2 programme
£1.50 tea
= £13.50
The Tunes:
BBC5Live
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