Away Days - Portsmouth
First Impressions -- Around the ground -- Facilities -- The Stand -- Overall -- Pictures
Fixture: Portsmouth
V Preston North End
Competition: Nationwide Division One
Ground: Fratton Park
Date: Saturday 27 October 2001
Kick off: 3pm
Final Result: 0-1 (Cartwright 34)
Well it was a hell of a long journey down to the south coast so I was hoping for a good game with a good result. On the way to the ground on the coach I was quite impressed with Portsmouth and thought it was quite a nice place. I was hoping I would expect the same from the ground.
However on arrival at the
ground from getting off the coach I wasn't too impressed
at the appearance. It seemed a little 'scruffy' and a bit
'dated'.
We had to make our way down an alley just behind the Milton
End which we were sitting in. It brought back memories as
it reminded me of the one that was behind the old Town End
at Deepdale
Before entering the ground we decided to take a look round the outside of the ground and look for a programme seller. It wasn't long before we came across the Portsmouth club shop (right). I thought this area of the ground had quite a lot of character and had never come across anything like this on any of other ground visits.
Before making the way back to the Milton End a few cars were going round and people handing out loads of bags of free 'Sports Mixtures'. I thought this was great because I would have something to chew on during the game!
The facilities weren't exactly 'up to standard' but I have definitely experienced worst. It was made slightly worse that the whole stand was 'open air' but judging by the weather that day it would be unfair of me to criticize it.
The actual stand itself did not impress me at all and left a lot to be desired. It was obvious seating bolted onto a former terrace which meant the leg room was sparse to say the least. No roof meant fans would be left open to the elements, but we were lucky since it was nice and sunny!
It turned out to be an enjoyable day out and we got the result we wanted (thank god because of the journey time!). I definitely wouldn't mind paying another visit.
Ratings
Appearance: 6/10
Facilities: 5/10
Enjoyment: 9/10
Fans: 8/10
Away Stand: 4/10
Overall: 6/10
