OK so I have finally secured two tickets in P2, the “neutral” section next to the saints fans.
On the pub front, there are fortunately a ton of pubs in Putney. Many do not open until 12.00 and this includes the Bricklayers. It has also changed in the last year: it is undergoing renovation, has a much reduced selection of beers and still no kitchen.
Nearby is the Coat & Badge. This opens at 11am, has plenty of food, heaters outside, TV screens and a variety of beers. It is just off the high street and will be less rammed than better known places like the Rocket (a Whetherspoons). The Coat is not cheap but very few pubs here are, sadly.
As I said before, I can be there at 11am and suggest we head to somewhere on the way to the ground later on. I don’t know these well but they include the Temperance and the Kings Arms. Other ideas welcome!
It seems that the need for pre-match beers on Saturday is even greater than we thought last night: over on the dark side, they are trying to organise banners and full on protests. This is not just for during the match, but as the players emerge from the tunnel. Oh the fun.
The C&B opens at 11am. Not sure how busy it might be (plenty of home tickets still for sale) but I can be there whenever. Food available from 12 but if you want less pricey or poncy, two minutes away are a Five Guys, KFC, Subway and McD.
I know Goatboy’s train gets in at 12. What time are the rest of you aiming to start your preparations for the magic of the third round?
…although having now looked at where the C&B actually is - that’s probably close enough to the ground isn’t it? Maybe we should stay there until it’s time for the game
You may be right mate. The next nearest two will be much more rammed and do involve a slight double back, before walking through the park. Only five minutes longer from the C&B but let’s see how it goes.
C&B for 12 it is … number 1 son and my ample self will cast our wisdom amongst you. Looking forward to putting faces to names. Try not to give my son nightmares, he is only 13. Mange tout. Chris