FabSwingers.com forum: December 2025 Football thread.

By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

So here it is, nearly Christmas, the mid-season's just begun....

Plenty of games this week, who's going where ?

My diary...

Tonight - Birmingham v. Watford

Tomorrow - Fulham v. Manchester City

Weds - Watford U21 v. Orient U21, PL2 Cup

Fri - Millwall Youth v. Everton Youth, F.A. Youth Cup 3rd Round.

Sat - Watford v. Norwich

Sun - Fulham v. Crystal Palace.

As always, keen to hear what you're up to.

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By *ony 2016Man
20 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

Any " Ground hoppers" in FABland who think they may have missed an old ground ,, keep an eye on Doncaster Belles ladies team fixtures ,, they have been playing at Millmoor , the old ground of Rotherham United

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By *ormagenericlblokeMan
20 weeks ago

Hertfordshire

"Any " Ground hoppers" in FABland who think they may have missed an old ground ,, keep an eye on Doncaster Belles ladies team fixtures ,, they have been playing at Millmoor , the old ground of Rotherham United "

Really bad, I didn't even know Rotherham moved

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By *ony 2016Man
20 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

Really bad, I didn't even know Rotherham moved"

Left Millmoor in 2008 , played at Don Valley in Sheffield until moving to New York Stadium in 2012 , , Millmoor had been left in disrepair but Doncaster Belles started playing there , met a couple of ground hoppers up from that London who took a game in there on a Friday night earlier in season

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Not a great display from Watford at Birmingham last night. Could have pinched a point in second half, but I don't think it would have been deserved.

Fulham v. Manchester City this evening.

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By *ie n MashCouple
20 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Not a great display from Watford at Birmingham last night. Could have pinched a point in second half, but I don't think it would have been deserved.

Fulham v. Manchester City this evening. "

And cannot wait for the report on this one 😎

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By *ockybukMan
20 weeks ago

Wolverhampton

I'm at Wolves v Forest tomorrow

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well, I'm absolutely bloody exhausted !

One of those games which comes around every five years or so. For anyone who can't grasp why people like me can become totally obsessed with the game, I suggest just the briefest look at the highlights should point them in the right direction

City's finishing was the usual high quality stuff. 0-3 just about bang on HT, then Fulham pull one back, and you think "Ooooh, this might get interesting".

Would you believe there were folk who didn't bother coming back for the second half ? There were two guys next to me who clearly hadn't been to a game in years who didn't. This is a problem at Fulham sometimes, reasonably good access to 'general sale' tickets, so for big games, plenty of part-timers & tourists (& don't even get me started on grown men in half & half scarves. Just fucking fucking fuck off ! Wankers).

Anyway, within ten minutes of restart, it's 1-5, and you think "this could be anything" [as in 1-7, 1-8 etc]. Cue more part-timers & tourists fucking off - well, it bloody well serves them right.

Thankfully Fulham nicked one back inside a couple of minutes and the belief within The Cottage changed. Then when it went 3-5 & eventually 4-5, well, I've not seen or heard anything like it. Think the roof would have come off the Hammersmith End had Fulham pinched an equaliser. And they so very nearly did. If Fulham can do that against one of the top three teams in the country, they should be OK taking enough points off teams in the rest of the division

As a certain manager once famously said "Football, bloody hell".

WHAT an evening !

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By *okingham WillMan
20 weeks ago

Up the Arse!

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
20 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

I'm surprised Sky Sports aren't on Fab with all the wanking they do on the commentary over Liverpool.

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By *xplore_With_MeMan
20 weeks ago

Lincs

"I'm surprised Sky Sports aren't on Fab with all the wanking they do on the commentary over Liverpool."

Facts.

They are literally urging and praying for a second. It’s a constant wank fest.

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
20 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

"I'm surprised Sky Sports aren't on Fab with all the wanking they do on the commentary over Liverpool.

Facts.

They are literally urging and praying for a second. It’s a constant wank fest."

It's the first time I've been disappointed not getting 3 points at Anfield.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Academy match this evening at King's Langley. Suffice to say not quite as dramatic as last night !

Watford U21 opened the scoring in the very first minute, Orient Reserves equalised midway through second half, but Watford won it with last move of the game.

Watford go top of group having won all three home games. A point against either Coventry or Blackburn in last two away games should see them through to knockout stages after Christmas, a win definitely will.

Don't quite know how I shall cope tomorrow.....no game ! Millwall v. Everton in the F.A. Youth Cup 3rd Round at The Den on Friday evening is up next

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By *ie n MashCouple
20 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Just in from our annual league trip to Old Trafford (the annual cup visit will be arranged courtesy of an FA Cup draw).

A decent point against an average Man Utd side. With Fernandes in the side, they are hard to like and a lot easier to detest.

Excellent support from our lot tonight in honour of one of our favourite Sons. Thanks to Sky, this season we have already enjoyed Everton, Leeds and Man Utd away on a working day (albeit tonight was always going to be a midweek fixture). Lucky for me that Pie is so understanding of my addiction.

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By *ony 2016Man
20 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

With all the northern under 21 teams knocked out of The Vertu trophy I lifted my boycott of the tournaments Northern section (NB boycott still in situ while one club --- you know who you are ,,,,remain in southern section) so went to Doncaster Rovers V Chesterfield, enjoyed it,,, that Billy Sharp knows where the goal is ,,, Donny better team and deserved the victory ,, they face each other again at Chesterfield in FA Cup on Saturday ,, went my favourite Donny pub before game for some snap didn't enjoy it as much as usual back there again ( hopefully) soon for FA Youth Cup v Villa , no problem with BIG teams putting out young teams in Youth Cup ( it's what it's meant to be) although mildly amused as they all ( but one ) didn't make it to knock out round in The Vertu ,,,big cup draw day Friday , next round of The Vertu AND World Cup Draw followed by FA Cup 3rd Round Draw on Monday and I expect the next round of FA Vase will also be on Monday ( I love a cup draw )

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By *ony 2016Man
20 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

"Just in from our annual league trip to Old Trafford (the annual cup visit will be arranged courtesy of an FA Cup draw).

A decent point against an average Man Utd side. With Fernandes in the side, they are hard to like and a lot easier to detest.

Listened on Talksport could clearly hear your lot belting out the bubbles

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By *ie n MashCouple
20 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"With all the northern under 21 teams knocked out of The Vertu trophy I lifted my boycott of the tournaments Northern section (NB boycott still in situ while one club --- you know who you are ,,,,remain in southern section) "

😎🤣

4 of the u21 team that got through to the knockout stage were on the bench last night at OT, with one making his debut.

I think there is a gentlemen’s agreement that no Prem u21 tries to win this competition, rather they use it as an opportunity to pitch the youngsters against men. The one game I watched earlier this season in this competition really was men against boys, with the boys winning 5-1.

What are your views on the National League Trophy? Are we allowed to try and win that? Must admit, I prefer this competition, as it takes us to new grounds each season, including our first ever visit to Cornwall last week (with 50 of us making the journey down),

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

I gather from a friend still heavily involved in non-league that the 'Conference' (will also be that to me) clubs get a sizeable dollop of cash if they beat a League club in it.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

First game of six in as many days done & dusted, five goals in the drizzle at The Den.

Millwall took the lead ten minutes in, but a spill by the home keeper let Everton in for an equaliser. A cracking edge of the box strike gave Everton the lead just before the break.

The hosts battled back to level in the closing stages, but with the game set for extra time, Everton carved out a winner deep into stoppage time - Millwall U18 2 Everton U18 3, it was just about the right result. The irony is that the 4th Round draw was made on Friday - Millwall have missed out on a home tie with West Ham !!! I have a further three Youth Cup 3rd Round matches lined up over the next week or so.

Watford v. Norwich later on today is a 12.30 start. Unfortunately none of the non-league clubs in easy reach are home tomorrow, so I can't get a second game in ! So.....as always, safe travels to those of you heading out. Enjoy your game, look forward to hearing about it later on.

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By *tr8ty7Man
20 weeks ago

Coventry

If we win tomorrow. Im going to believe this is the year. Toughest game if the season .

Frankie Lampards sky blue army

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

I saw Ipswich at Oxford last week, and didn't think much of them.

Way to look at things at this stage is you have fifteen point safety margin on the last play off place, and if you've only lost one game so far, it's unlikely you'll lose another five. Enjoy your season, it looks like being a special one

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By *hief Scout OP Man
20 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Always nice to come back and gain a "hard fought" win. 3-2 to Watford, the old warhorse Tom Ince grabbing the winner !

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By *ie n MashCouple
19 weeks ago

Back in Malice

[Removed by poster at 07/12/25 21:14:46]

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By *ie n MashCouple
19 weeks ago

Back in Malice

A fantastic second half performance from the ‘Appy ‘Ammers at a very soggy Amex Stadium this afternoon. Seems every day is a school day; today I learned that you can kick a ball that is next to the head of a bloke over 6 feet tall, who is not bending down, and this is not dangerous play / a high foot. Pity it cost us a goal and two points but heh-ho

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By *ifeforelivingMan
19 weeks ago

Middlesbrough

"I'm at Wolves v Forest tomorrow

As a boro supporter - come on Forrest wolves deserve to go down your manager deserves the sack

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By *hams123Man
19 weeks ago

London

"A fantastic second half performance from the ‘Appy ‘Ammers at a very soggy Amex Stadium this afternoon. Seems every day is a school day; today I learned that you can kick a ball that is next to the head of a bloke over 6 feet tall, who is not bending down, and this is not dangerous play / a high foot. Pity it cost us a goal and two points but heh-ho"

The rules seem to change game by game. Var looked at the handball but not the overhead kick? And it was still given 😂

I guess a point is better than nothing.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Enjoyable but ultimately frustrating game between two well matched teams at The Cottage this afternoon.

The draw seemed the likeliest (& possibly fairest) result, so it was a real sucker punch to lose at the end, but we know what Palace are like at set pieces.

So, that's 90 games on the clock, I'm about ten ahead of where I was this time last season.

Tomorrow - Brentford B v. West Brom U21 in the PL Cup at Staines.

Tues - Watford v. Sheffield Wednesday.

Weds - QPR Youth v. Oxford CITY (yes, lowest team left in), F.A. Youth Cup 3rd Round at Loftus Road.

Keep your stories/reviews coming !

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By *ie n MashCouple
19 weeks ago

Back in Malice

The rules seem to change game by game. Var looked at the handball but not the overhead kick? And it was still given 😂

I guess a point is better than nothing."

Apparently VAR did look at the overhead kick and decreed it not to be dangerous play. In their defence, the foot was only 6 feet off the floor, which is quite natural 🤣. I called it immediately from our position behind the opposite goal, two of my mates stood with me had no idea the incident had even happened. Watching it again on the highlights, it happens very fast and did not look as bad as it did from my original angle, but it was still dangerous play and would normally be given.

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By *ocktoplaywithMan
19 weeks ago

Derby

After a brief spell where we got 5 straight wins, it’s now back to normal for Derby with 3 defeats in 4. Defending on Saturday against Leicester was truly dreadful. Very disappointing

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

PL Cup action at Staines....

Despite West Brom U21 taking early lead and dominating first half hour, Brentford rattled in three goals in ten minutes, and two more after the break. The 5-1 win leaves them in pole position to qualify with one more group game to play.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

So.....Champions League or Championship ? Who's headed where this evening ?

Another trip to The Vic (& hopefully another three points) against Sheffield Wednesday - though they never stopped trying at Millwall a few weeks ago.

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By * Young BuckMan
19 weeks ago

home

Just been to boca juniors vs racing club the other day. The atmosphere was like no other even though they did up losing 1-0 wasn’t the best!

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Excellent, that's different.

I'm almost embarrassed to add an observation about this evening's efforts at The Vic. Sheffield Wednesday scored with their only decent effort on target.

Watford huffed & puffed, over-played and over-passed. 4th official shows seven minutes of stoppage time......Watford's equaliser hits the back of the net on 96 mins 49 seconds. Talk about 'snatched a point', fucking hell !

Youth Cup 3rd Round tomorrow, QPR v. Oxford CITY, Shithouse Road, 7pm

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By *ony 2016Man
19 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

😎🤣

4 of the u21 team that got through to the knockout stage were on the bench last night at OT, with one making his debut.

it amazes me that more of the Under 21 teams don't do well ,, West Ham the only team to qualify for Vertu knock out rounds and currently the only Under 21 teams in qualifying position for The National League Trophy ,,

Re the money bit , I heard myself that the BIG lot are paying substantial amount to enter the 2 competitions, maybe the little clubs should start to let them win a few more games, at moment it only looks like West Ham are interested

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By *ony 2016Man
19 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

As someone who loves Cup games , prefering them to league matches , I also enjoy Cup Draws ,, if anyone else shares my enjoyment, just how bad were the FA Cup and World Cup Draws ???

The FA should probably look on improving the 4th round draw by awarding a peace prize half way through ,,

Have also heard today that in The 2026 World Cup there will be a 3 minute cool break during every half ( irrespective of the weather conditions) ,, anyone with a suspicious mind might think this was to have adverts for the TV stations

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By *ie n MashCouple
19 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Now that really is a conspiracy theory too far! That compulsory 3-minute break is essential for the well-being of the players and is something that people have been calling for since ….. well, never.

FIFA is corrupt and would sell its soul to the Devil (if Satan offered enough money). The sooner UEFA and the Latam countries break away, the better.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Ohhhhh, to long for the days of smuggling a transistor radio into school for 12.30 on Monday, to listen to Sir Boring Old Fart and Lord Grumble de Grunt rattling their balls around the velvet bag. (Did you know the old F.A. Secretary Ted Croker's autobiography is entitled "And The First Voice You Will Hear Is...." in homage to the introduction by Bryan Butler or Peter Jones ahead of the draw ?) None of this "Watford.....ooooh they've got pretty yellow shirts....will play.....Southampton.....fifty years this season since they won the Cup" bollocks. Just fucking fuck off and get on with the draw.

As for the World Cup, well, I didn't watch a SINGLE KICK three years ago, and I doubt very much that I will this time around. I don't even know who the home countries have drawn. Five weeks is FAR too long/48 teams far too many. I have no interest in it whatsoever.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Lowest ranked team left in the F.A. Youth Cup bow out at Loftus Road.

QPR in front early but then wasted a string of first half chances. Got interesting just before half time, Oxford City awarded and converted a penalty to go in 1-1 at HT.

Early second half goal settled Rangers, who then took complete control. The 5-1 scoreline sees them host Spurs or Brighton who play at Stevenage on Tuesday (yes, it's in the diary).

A couple of days break before Millwall v. Hull on Saturday.

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By *ony 2016Man
19 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

FA youth cup visit to Hull in midweek V Swansea , enjoyed it but starting to feel my age with the cold weather ( this never used to happen at football,,,, or when dogging but it does now ) ref indicated 5 minutes injury time with Hull losing , pleased when they equalised ,then equally as pleased when Swansea got winner so didn't have to sit there for another 30+ minutes, , either team could have won ,,,notice a big Sheffield derby in next round of Youth Cup with Sheffield Wednesday or Bromley at home v Sheffield United or Ipswich,,well it was , until Ipswich beat Blades and Bromley beat Owls ,, in a derby that did happen noticed that Fleetwood beat Blackpool ,, I now got ( hopefully) 3 different Cups in 3 days , Saturday FA Trophy Scunthorpe V Peterborough Sports, Sunday Womens FA Cup Leeds V WBA ,, Monday FA Youth Cup Doncaster V Aston Villa ,,

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By *ony 2016Man
19 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

"Now that really is a conspiracy theory too far! That compulsory 3-minute break is essential for the well-being of the players and is something that people have been calling for since ….. well, never.

FIFA is corrupt and would sell its soul to the Devil (if Satan offered enough money). The sooner UEFA and the Latam countries break away, the better."

Would be surprised if Satan himself could afford a ticket for the final

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Off to The Den again later today, Millwall v. Hull, 3rd v 6th. If it's half as entertaining as the Southampton game the other week it will be worth a look

Two more Youth Cup ties on Mon/Tues. Watford v Plymouth at King's Langley on Monday, then Tottenham v. Brighton at Stevenage on Tuesday.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
19 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Another crazy afternoon of "anyone-can-beat-anyone" in the Championship.

For first five minutes it looked as if Millwall might bulldoze their visitors. Came close to scoring inside 40 seconds. Then Hull broke and with their first attack scored. Then a few minutes later they counter-attacked and scored again. 0-2 on 12 mins and Millwall being out-counter-attacked in their own back yard. First half continued to have good flow to it.

Obviously Millwall needed an early second half goal, but it didn't come, and when Azeez was sent off for an off the ball kick it seemed the game was over as a contest. However within two minutes they'd pulled a goal back, and as they went searching for the equaliser, they were caught again, a superbly placed header giving Hull a deserved 1-3 win in a lively game.

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
18 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

One step closer to safety.

A clean sheet.

A derby win.

It's been a good day

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By *abioMan
18 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

have the fortune of living about half way between… so this is the day I go to the pub and watch them all suffer! lol (to be fair they do the same thing to me on north London derby day!)

Anyway been hearing the police helicopters over me house all day… and no horses punched as far as I am aware!

The Sunderland team taking the picture afterwards is so petty.. but glorious! That’s the amount of pettiness I like in my derbies

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By *abioMan
18 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

Just been thinking

With my American football head on , the game time temp in Chicago Is 8 degrees f, in Cincinnati it’s 8 degrees f

That is minus “a lot” degrees….

So … question…. Coldest place you have seen a football game

I’ve watched a game at Burnley once that was so cold to me , I counted the fingers and toes I had when I got home

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
18 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

"have the fortune of living about half way between… so this is the day I go to the pub and watch them all suffer! lol (to be fair they do the same thing to me on north London derby day!)

Anyway been hearing the police helicopters over me house all day… and no horses punched as far as I am aware!

The Sunderland team taking the picture afterwards is so petty.. but glorious! That’s the amount of pettiness I like in my derbies"

It wouldn't be a derby without some shithousery.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Just been thinking

With my American football head on , the game time temp in Chicago Is 8 degrees f, in Cincinnati it’s 8 degrees f

That is minus “a lot” degrees….

So … question…. Coldest place you have seen a football game

I’ve watched a game at Burnley once that was so cold to me , I counted the fingers and toes I had when I got home

I can certainly offer a couple from my old non-league days. Ever done Gateshead away on a Tuesday night ?

They play at the athletics stadium, and it has just the one main stand. Can recall one away game with Hayes played one February Tuesday evening, a swirling wind with that horrible fine drizzle that pisses you off even more than proper rain. AWFUL place to watch football

But nothing will beat Claremont Road, former (long gone) home of Hendon FC. Used to be just off the North Circular Road, with a couple of parks/open spaces surrounding it. I have genuinely been cold there in August !

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By *abioMan
18 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"Just been thinking

With my American football head on , the game time temp in Chicago Is 8 degrees f, in Cincinnati it’s 8 degrees f

That is minus “a lot” degrees….

So … question…. Coldest place you have seen a football game

I’ve watched a game at Burnley once that was so cold to me , I counted the fingers and toes I had when I got home

I can certainly offer a couple from my old non-league days. Ever done Gateshead away on a Tuesday night ?

Hey… don’t be knocking Gateshead stadium now! I have seen some world class athletics , some not bad rugby Union, some dodgy rugby league and a bon jovi concert there!

As a footy stadium I can see how it would blow!!!

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By *ie n MashCouple
18 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Coldest game ever was away at Brisbane Road for a FA Cup 3rd round tie. So cold my mate turned grey and I was genuinely scared for his health. Bloke behind us had a piss on the terrace and we both swear it had frozen before he had finished.

Closely followed by away to Steaua Bucharest in 1999. The advice from WHU was that it would be like a spring day’s weather. It wasn’t and I was bouncing up and down all game to keep warm as I spent an evening in ice cold sleet.

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
18 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

"Just been thinking

With my American football head on , the game time temp in Chicago Is 8 degrees f, in Cincinnati it’s 8 degrees f

That is minus “a lot” degrees….

So … question…. Coldest place you have seen a football game

I’ve watched a game at Burnley once that was so cold to me , I counted the fingers and toes I had when I got home

I can certainly offer a couple from my old non-league days. Ever done Gateshead away on a Tuesday night ?

Not sure if you've been to many Scottish games but passed through Arbroath on the train a few year back and noticed their stadium is on the North Sea, it'll be brutal this time of year.

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By *agneto.Man
18 weeks ago

Bham

Old Trafford tomorrow , hopefully go 5th.

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By *ookie46Woman
18 weeks ago

Deepest darkest Peru

"have the fortune of living about half way between… so this is the day I go to the pub and watch them all suffer! lol (to be fair they do the same thing to me on north London derby day!)

Anyway been hearing the police helicopters over me house all day… and no horses punched as far as I am aware!

The Sunderland team taking the picture afterwards is so petty.. but glorious! That’s the amount of pettiness I like in my derbies"

Actually made m day that pic

Just desserts

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Two Youth Cup games on immediate horizon.

Tonight - Watford v. Plymouth at Kings Langley (winners host Charlton in 4th Round)

Tomorrow - Spurs v. Brighton at Stevenage (winners away to QPR)

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By *007ManMan
18 weeks ago

Worthing

Worthing doing well after missing on promotion last season. 2026 could be their year.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

1-0 to Watford in the Youth Cup tonight. First half was really enjoyable stuff with both sides playing well, Watford scoring just before HT.

Second half was as poor as first was good, very bitty, too many stoppages (far too many players going down with cramp, not just late in the game either) and no flow to it whatsoever. But Watford held out for the win

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Youth Cup latest....

Went to Stevenage last night for Tottenham v. Brighton. Good competitive match, the visitors deservedly running out 2-5 winners. One interesting incident to relay.

At 1-1, a Spurs was on his way through, not inside the box, but heading towards it, when a Brighton player visibly tugged his shirt for three or four seconds. However, the Spurs player got free, the referee waved play on and the move broke down, but too far to bring it back for the free kick. With me so far ?

When the play stopped, the referee just had a word with the Brighton defender - nothing else. Now, in what world is that not a "card-able" offence ? Certainly a yellow. The Spurs lad was effectively punished for not going down, and if he had gone down, the Brighton could feasibly have been sent off.

Anyway, another game has popped up tonight - Oxford v. Wigan at the Kas-Stad, with the unusual kick-off time of 6pm

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By *ony 2016Man
18 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

Doncaster V Aston Villa in Youth Cup , after the game the FA Website announced 4-1 home win but it wasn't although Donny took the lead it was 1-4 ,game delayed as ref & linos came out wearing same kit as Villa although don't think they had Villa badge on their shirts ,, Villa are the holders and if any club wants to beat them Plan A is *NOT* to attack and if you do attack make sure you score because if you don't their breakaway speed is lightening fast ,, amusing comment in crowd was when someone yelled at linesman to "keep up" he'd have needed a push bike , they were so fast ,, Hope you all enjoy your Christmas games ,,

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

And I saw a routine 2-0 win for Oxford against Wigan, goal in each half. They will entertain Colchester after Christmas.

Tonight....going somewhere I haven't been in nearly 30 years. Accompanying a friend to Crystal Palace v. KuPS in the Euro Conf thingy.

Friday evening QPR U21 are due to host Burnley at Hanwell in the PL2 Cup (QPR being holders). PROVIDING it doesn't get moved to the Training Ground, it will be my 99th game of the season, thus meaning Watford v. Stoke on Sat will be match no. 100. I'm toying with the idea of Brackley v. Morecambe in Nat. Lge on Sun, and will then have Fulham v. Forest on Monday evening.

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By *ie n MashCouple
18 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Doncaster V Aston Villa in Youth Cup , after the game the FA Website announced 4-1 home win but it wasn't although Donny took the lead it was 1-4 ,game delayed as ref & linos came out wearing same kit as Villa although don't think they had Villa badge on their shirts ,, Villa are the holders and if any club wants to beat them Plan A is *NOT* to attack and if you do attack make sure you score because if you don't their breakaway speed is lightening fast ,, amusing comment in crowd was when someone yelled at linesman to "keep up" he'd have needed a push bike , they were so fast ,, Hope you all enjoy your Christmas games ,, "

I saw Villa’s u18s and u16s earlier this season. Both were very useful sides. Did Villa have a man mountain playing for them at centre back? One of the biggest players I have seen, and a good player to boot.

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By *ony 2016Man
18 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

Can't say I particularly noticed but I am not the most observant , they were lightening in attack though I did see the blur as they ran past me ,, pre match their warm up consisted of the 11 starters , GK in net , the rest in a 433 formation attacking against no one from half way line , nice and calmly then explode into pace ,, it looked kind of strange until you saw them doing exactly the same in the match ,,

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Then clearly you ARE observant Tony if you paid attention to a shadow set play in the warm up and then spotted it in action.

Anyway, a first visit to Selhurst Park in nearly 30 years last night, and quite an enjoyable evening. Palace's first goal was worth the admission money alone, but a sloppy opening ten minutes in the second half cost them, the eventual draw giving them the inconvenience of a play off round. Good atmosphere, enjoyed it

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By *ockkneejay69Man
18 weeks ago

woodford

Staying in Manchester tonight ready for Etihad tomorrow ⚒️

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By *ockybukMan
18 weeks ago

Wolverhampton

I'll be watching Wolves v Brentford

I must have stepped on a duck in a previous life

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Another evening, another game - PL Cup, QPR U21 v. Burnley U21 - and the game decided by a very contentious late first half penalty.

In my opinion a QPR defender made a block challenge, which stopped the ball, and the Burnley forward fell over the ball. In fact I'd say as long as I've got a hole in my arse it was never a pen. Anyway it was put away, and that proved to be the game's only goal.

QPR now relying on the result of the remaining group game (Cardiff v. Stockport) to see if they go through to the knockout stages in the New Year of a competition which their U21 squad won last season.

And the personal significance of tonight's game ? It was my 99th of the season, so my fastest ever 100 comes up at Watford v. Stoke tomorrow.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
18 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well the landmark 100th game is up. But Christ, that was a hard watch.

First half was bloody awful. Second half was marginally better and thankfully one goal was enough for Watford to edge past Stoke.

The stats, I hear you say ? 100 games have produced 52 home wins, 18 draws, 30 aways. Goals 168/130, two single goal games in 24 hours have taken the average back just under three per game. Only one goalless draw in 100 games, while Fulham 4 Man City 5 remains highest score.

If you've been to a game today, hope you hade an enjoyable one, safe trip home

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By *ie n MashCouple
17 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Just got back in from our annual defeat at the Etihad (albeit via a pleasant northern soul do en route).

That Haaland looks like he might have a future in the game. One to keep an eye on.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
17 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Match no. 101 was more lively than 100. Not that it was too difficult to be so.

Clearly both Brackley & Morecambe have one aim in the National League this season - staying in it, Brackley as it's their first season at this level, and Morecambe because they're grateful just to still exist.

Scrappy opening phase until Morecambe took the lead after Brackley keeper failed to hold a routine cross. This did encourage Brackley to be a bit more ambitious.

They missed two golden chances to equalise in opening stages of second half, in particular one which hit the post and rolled along the line. But as only fifteen goals scored in now twenty league games suggests, nobody had the guile to follow it in. Morecambe broke to score again soon after to deservedly win 0-2. If I were sticking money on which of these two teams is better placed to stay up, it would go on Morecambe.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
17 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Last game before Xmas. Sod the quality, just get the result !

"Kevin", the Duane Dibley of Craven Cottage, weaved his was into the box in first half stoppage time, was brought down, Jiminez converted.....and that was about it. 1-0 Fulham.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
17 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Boxing Day then. Who's headed where ?

Personally, I don't see why so much fuss has been made that there are no PL games (except the one shifted for telly) today. Over the last few seasons fixtures have been split so the Prem plays on one specific day, and the Football League plays on another.

So outside the insular world of the Premier League, there is PLENTY of football today. I'm headed off to The Den for Millwall v. Ipswich.

Rest of the year, West Ham v. Fulham (in away end) on Saturday. Then back to Millwall for Bristol City and West Ham v. Brighton on Tuesday.

As always, safe travels and enjoy your game. Wrap up well, looks like being a tad chilly over next few days

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By *hief Scout OP Man
17 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

A fast open game at The Den today, and 103 games in I have only my second 0-0 of the season.

Both sides will be happy with a point, though self evidently neither had the extra bit of quality needed to win it. All the game lacked was a goal. Have seen some crap 0-0's down the years, this wasn't one of them.

On to Wet Spam tomorrow !

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By *007ManMan
17 weeks ago

Worthing

Man u v newcastle tonight should be a good one. 1-2 toon.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
17 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Oh my word. I can only say I witnessed an embarrassment to the sport this afternoon.

Fulham won ugly on Monday evening. This wasn't merely ugly, it was a haggard crusty wart ridden, with grisly bogeys and dirty great dew drop hanging from a crooked nose ugly. One piss poor and one bang average team, I've seen games of chess with more pace and flair.

BUT....if you have go endure a shit game, make sure you get the result. And thankfully Harry Wilson - who continues to be Fulham's most influential player - produced the most delicate of crosses for Jiminez to nod home. 0-1, thank you very much, let's go home.

I'm actually at Wet Spam's next two home game, cheap seats in the sleepy hollow section once again. These games are against Brighton & Forest (& in between they are away at Wolves, so we'll take that as read). Clearly Wolves are out of the equation by a country mile, and Burnley have neither the quality nor a manager with the intelligence to adapt to survive. If West Ham want a realistic chance if avoiding being cut off with these two clubs, they MUST look to take a minimum of four points from those two home games (& obviously beat Wolves away too)

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By *ie n MashCouple
16 weeks ago

Back in Malice

If you think that game was bad, please believe me we have had far worse at the Soulless Bowl this season.

Yesterday was the first time I have seriously considered that we are getting relegated this season. Getting beaten by such a mediocre side shows how desperate our position is. Fortunately, I love the Championship and am embracing trips to grounds we haven’t been to for years. Unfortunately, it could knock the Club back years.

See you there on Tuesday, CS!

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

I was at the Brentford game - but the Bees played very well that evening.

As I say by my reckoning you need seven points in next three games, obviously you simply have to win at Wolves, and look to take four points off the two home games

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By *l1 guyMan
16 weeks ago

Slough

"I was at the Brentford game - but the Bees played very well that evening.

As I say by my reckoning you need seven points in next three games, obviously you simply have to win at Wolves, and look to take four points off the two home games "

I was at the Brentford game, like many I go to every season.

Probably the best game I have seen them play at home for a long time 🐝

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Good highlights on MoTD, great hat-trick by Schade, fantastic first time strike for second goal.

Bournemouth dropping like a stone

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By *eekyTattsCoupleCouple
16 weeks ago

Tyne and Wear

Disappointed with the Leeds game, if we had a clinical finisher we would have won it.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Was pottering around and had Radio 5 on. Sounded a half decent game. Always enjoy listening to Pat Nevin summarize

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Enjoyable evening at The Den, more action in first 15 mins than a turgid 90 at Wet Spam on Saturday

There was a bit of needle in this, mainly due to Bristol City having a perfectly good last minute equaliser chalked off at Ashton Gate when they met a few weeks ago. And frankly they had by far the better of the play this evening. I think Millwall's goal was their only attack of the first half.

City equalised early in second half bit couldn't capitalise while on top. Millwall were always going to get chances as the game got stretched in the closing stages, and bundled in a winner with ten minutes to go.

They'll be very satisfied with four points from two tough home games over Xmas, and of course they've taken six off Bristol City

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Final game of the year. And a much better watch than Saturday (not exactly a tough ask). It wasn't a "spectacular evening's entertainment" match, but definitely a "got your money's worth" one.

West Ham better team for first half hour ans should have been more than one goal ahead before ridiculously conceding two penalties in five mins, one converted by Welbeck, the other rattling the crossbar.

Michael Salisbury has to be one of the worst PL refs out there, the whole f'kn stadium could see Dunk handled, and I don't know why he needed a prompt from VAR to give it. Brighton equalised early in second half but no one could pinch the win, leaving a lively and watchable 2-2 draws aa the right result.

Stats for season so far (106 matches). 54 home wins, 20 draws, 32 aways. Goals 173 home, 136 away.

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By (user no longer on site)
16 weeks ago

If a woman posts an filtered pic and when you meet her it doesn't match, does it give a man the right to leave?

But also if a man posts a photo that isn't true and a woman turns up does she also have the right to leave ?

Discuss!!!???

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By *ie n MashCouple
16 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"If a woman posts an filtered pic and when you meet her it doesn't match, does it give a man the right to leave?

But also if a man posts a photo that isn't true and a woman turns up does she also have the right to leave ?

Discuss!!!???"

Depends which stadium, which competition and what stage of the game we are at.

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By *lackadderMan
16 weeks ago

Eastbourne

Just here for the women looking for a man with no interest in football whatsoever (except possibly the England ladies team)

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By *ie n MashCouple
16 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Decent game last night and was delighted with the effort shown. Even happier to see 4 of our u21s on the pitch at some point. Augurs well for next season if we do get relegated. Glad that CS enjoyed his evening at the Soulless Bowl.

We’re in a very dicey position. Ridiculously, if we win our next two matches (Wolves away, Forest at home) we could be out the bottom 3 this time next week. Lose both and battle plans will be drawn up for South London’s Great Unwashed’s first visit to this ground next season.

Happy New Year all and keep those photos unfiltered. It’s the biggest scourge in the game at this moment in time ⚒

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By *heGateKeeperMan
16 weeks ago

Stratford

Strong end to the year beating Villa 4-1. 3 big games next with Bournemouth, Liverpool and then the FA Cup 3rd round

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Depends which stadium, which competition and what stage of the game we are at."

Thoughts on last night ?

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By *ie n MashCouple
16 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Depends which stadium, which competition and what stage of the game we are at.

Thoughts on last night ?"

WHU were the better team in the first half, BHA better in the 2nd. We were hanging on once Wilson went off, so the draw was a fair result.

Ref and assistants were shocking. Unbelievable how some of them progress this far up the pyramid, as they appear to have no real understanding of the game. That said, I was glad he gave BHA their 2nd pen, as I want to see wrestling in the penalty area clamped down on.

Was quite a decent atmosphere, with some old skool passion around me (not for the faint-hearted or easily offended).

Onwards and upwards to Wolves on Saturday.

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By *ie n MashCouple
16 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Strong end to the year beating Villa 4-1. 3 big games next with Bournemouth, Liverpool and then the FA Cup 3rd round

Superb result and sent out a strong message. Looking forward to seeing how Arsenal and Citeh battle it out for the rest of the season. If you beat the Red Scouse next week, it becomes very interesting.

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By *hrill CollinsMan
16 weeks ago

The Outer Rim

"Just been thinking

With my American football head on , the game time temp in Chicago Is 8 degrees f, in Cincinnati it’s 8 degrees f

That is minus “a lot” degrees….

So … question…. Coldest place you have seen a football game

I’ve watched a game at Burnley once that was so cold to me , I counted the fingers and toes I had when I got home

definately when wales played russia in moscow 2003 .... i've never drank so much vodka in a such an ineffective attempt to keep warm as that night ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ .... and what sort of football stadium doesn't sell pies at half time?

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By *hief Scout OP Man
16 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Decent game last night and was delighted with the effort shown. Glad that CS enjoyed his evening at the Soulless Bowl.

Lose both and battle plans will be drawn up for South London’s Great Unwashed’s first visit to this ground next season. ⚒"

Yes, it was a far better game to watch last night. Not stunning excitement, but plenty to keep everyone interested.

What makes you think you'll be welcoming Millwall next season ? Your ultimate nightmare.....they pass you on your way down ! (Don't rule it out, they could be play-off contenders !).

Anyway, as always thanks to everyone who's chipped in. Jan '26 page on its way

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By *heGateKeeperMan
16 weeks ago

Stratford

"Strong end to the year beating Villa 4-1. 3 big games next with Bournemouth, Liverpool and then the FA Cup 3rd round

We owe them an absolute hiding so hopefully next week we deliver it

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