Non League Day 2024… as, soon as they said they would love to have my mate Thunder & myself back, I just HAD to return to Stratford Town FC, to vlog their home match v Long Eaton United.
We had previously been there in mid January, where we were treated brilliantly, and had seen a thriller v Barwell FC.
It was almost a Deja vu day, again, we were treated brilliantly, and, again, we saw a thriller… this time though, against different opponents.
I was keen to arrive at the ground nice and early, for 2 reasons in particular… 1, I always always struggle with the opening on the vlogs, and need to record it quickly to get it over with, and 2, we would be probably be chatting for quite a bit to people we had met before.
So, we arrive at, as Thunder moaned, the ridiculously early time of 12.45!
First person we bumped into, was chairman Jed McCrory and we chatted for quite a while about everything from personal life stuff, plans for the football club and, his opinion on this new regulator coming into football.
I have to say, after hearing his thoughts on that, I would be quite keen to do an in depth interview on that subject, as I was taken aback on his thoughts on how it affects step 2 and lower clubs.
After catching up with many more familiar faces, it was time to do some more filming before taking our seats for kick off.
Now, when I decide where best to sit, I tend to take in factors such as the position of the sun and, the end where I think there would be more action.
I got this right in the first half, but let me tell you, it was sooo bloody cold with a really strong wind, I was struggling a bit with the recording.
At half time we went inside to warm up a bit… but, early into the second half, I was soon cold again and my fingers started to numb... so, that is my excuse for missing recording a vital goal in the 2nd half.
95 mins then, and the game comes to an end, and, like I said above, we witnessed a thriller.
As you know in these mini reports, I won’t mention the outcome of the match as I would like you to watch the vlog, which is found below!
Back inside then to wrap up the filming, with more links and an interview.
Once that was done, Thunder and I hung around for a while longer, talking to players, staff and fans about the club and match.
Honestly, there is such a feel good factor about the place that it’s really hard not to be drawn into having a connection with “The Bards”… in fact, I for one will now always be a bit of a fan from afar.
Time to leave the Arden Garages Stadium, where, once again, Thunder and I were reflecting on the journey home at what a brilliant place we have just visited again, and, if Stratford make the play offs, manager Gavin Hurren (pictured) has invited us back… and we have video evidence of that offer!!!!!
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy the Vlog!
Big thank you to Darren Ashley once again for sharing another one of his excellent Vlogs and make to sure to follow his YouTube Channel and don't forget to subscribe!
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