Alright so last week I got this idea: why not go watch Bradford City away games this season? Heard the atmosphere’s wild when you’re in another team’s stadium. But first I needed to figure out where and when they’re playing.
First Step: Hunting Down Fixtures
Went straight to Google typing “Bradford City fixtures 2023” like a maniac. Found the club’s official site but got lost clicking through news articles before spotting the “Fixtures” tab buried at the top. Tapped that and boom – saw the whole season calendar. Then I realized away games ain’t labeled properly. Had to scan each line checking “H” or “A” like decoding secret messages.
Scrolled down July/August matches – most were home games. Finally spotted the first away game: August 12 at Crawley Town. Wrote that on my sticky note thinking “Alright, road trip time!”
The Planning Mess
Checked train tickets to Crawley immediately. Prices made my eyes water – £80 return! Switched to National Express buses, found one for £26. Booked it before prices jumped. Then realized the stadium’s miles from town center. Googled “Crawley Stadium transport” – local bus takes 30 minutes from station.
Hotel? Forget that. Prices doubled near match days. Ended up booking a dodgy B&B two towns over. Figured I’d take the last bus back after the game. Screenshot the timetables cause service gets sketchy on weekends.
Ticket Chaos
Forgot match tickets until three days before. Panic-called Bradford’s ticket office. They said away tickets must be bought FROM BRADFORD not Crawley. Almost choked. Rushed to Valley Parade ticket booth sweating buckets – got the last few tickets available. Pro tip: away tickets sell faster than hot cakes.
The Actual Trip
Woke up at 5AM for the 7:30 bus. Freezing at Leeds station eating stale sandwich. Bus smelled like wet dog but whatever. Made it to Crawley at 1PM. Wandered streets hunting Bradford fans in jerseys – found a pub packed with our lads singing. Best part of the day honestly.
Match was… well we lost 2-0. But chanting your lungs out with 400 away fans while home supporters boo? Priceless.
What I’d Do Different Next Time
- Track fixtures early
- Book transport ASAP when dates drop
- Avoid accommodation near stadium – rip-off
- Join supporters groups
- They charter cheaper buses
- Know pubs where away fans gather
- Set ticket reminders
- Home club releases away tickets weeks prior
- Don’t wait till last minute like me
Honestly? Planning sucks but that post-game buzz with fellow away supporters makes it worth every headache. Already eyeing that October trip to Gillingham…
