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The Sunderland Stadium of Light
is situated just outside of the City Centre and is easy accessible
by all means of transport (Parking is a bit difficult though).
With the extension to the North Stand due to be completed by
the start of the 2000-01 season the club will boast a capacity
of 48,000.
Drinking as
most fans realise is the best warm up to a match known,
and Sunderland certainly does not disappoint. There is
something for everyone both home and away fans, from the very
partisan atmosphere of Idols (exotic dancers and £1 per
bottle) where chanting and good fun is the norm, to the
quieter more sedate venue of Whetherspoons, no chanting music
or fun allowed. With a total of over 20 venues open
prior to kick off, it is very unusual that you will not at
least get a pint or two.
Once inside
the stadium you are struck by just how big it is.
Especially during big matches when a throng of 38,000 plus
"mackems" chant for the team, it is very daunting.
Intimidation is the name of the game from the start with 'Tchaikovsky's - Dance of the Knights' and
'Republica's -
Ready to Go' blasted over the PA system a sure fire way
to ensure any players with nerves are found out immediately.
As with most
modern stadia alcohol and food are served, and despite the
overly high prices of the merchandise, the quality seems to be
pretty high (even if the stock levels aren't). Sunderland are
now, after too many years in the doldrums, starting to get
things right off the pitch as well as on it. it is this
reason why many away fans who visit come back the following
season.
Gavin Frater |
