MATCH 1633 - Sunday, 10 January 2016

SEASON: 2015/16
SCOTTISH CUP 4th ROUND
Venue:  STAIR PARK

STRANRAER    0    CELTIC    3

Scorers:  Griffiths(2), Cole

After getting back from London on the overnight bus at 7.30am it was back out at 12.00 to drive to Stranraer for Celtic's first Scottish Cup tie of the season and my first match at Stair Park.

Extremely cold day despite the bright winter sun making it difficult to see the west side of the ground in the first half but a great step back in time to a old Scottish ground with basic facilities for a large travelling support.

The game was a typical early round tie played on a bumpy pitch in January - short of quality and all about scoring a few goals to get the job done.

Personal note:  2 days, 2 matches, 1000 miles travelled and two new grounds visited.  Total of grounds now 95 overall

MATCH 1632 - Saturday, 9 January 2016

SEASON: 2015/16
ENGLISH FA CUP 3rd ROUND
Venue:  EMIRATES ARSENAL STADIUM

1st match of my cup double weekend!

ARSENAL    3    SUNDERLAND    1

Scorers: Campbell, Ramsey, Giroud;  Lens

An overnight trip to the English capital to see FA Cup tie and visit a new ground thanks to my oldest son, Daniel who arranged the trip.

It was car, train, coach & tube ride to get to the Emirates Stadium. Arriving at Arsenal tube station we went left the long way to the new ground via the old Arsenal stadium aka Highbury.  Now flats and offices thankfully the iconic East Stand outer building has been preserved.  

Old iconic Highbury Stadium

I attended two Celtic matches there in 1986 & 1991 so it was a nice trip down memory lane.

The new ground may not have the same history of the old ground but it's much bigger and very plush with very comfy padded seats throughout the ground setting it apart from most football grounds. All in all it's a very enjoyable matchday experience just be prepared for the long wait to get on the tube after the match, especially if the weather is not pleasant like today!

Sitting in the away end it was good to see Sunderland take the lead which set up an interesting cup tie. Sunderland eventually wilted under the Arsenal pressure despite a fine performance from Pickford in the away goal who was making his debut.

Personal note:  3rd match between these sides & 3rd Arsenal win!