Brighton are currently enjoying their eighth consecutive season in the Premier League and so trips to Anfield, Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge are now an annual occurrence. The Seagulls have spent the majority of the club's history playing in the Football League but have been mixing it up with the big boys in recent times, showing they can match the top sides in the country. Brighton are an established outfit in the top-flight and continue to impress on the main stage.
While they have a strong record at the AMEX Stadium, they are also a match for teams on the road and away days as a Brighton fan is packed with anticipation and excitement. This article will provide tips and guidance on how to experience an away day with the Seagulls.
Securing Tickets
It's important to note if you are not a regular at Premier League matches the away section is much smaller than the home end and so, of course, there are less tickets to be purchased meaning more chance of sell outs. For instance, at Everton's Goodison Park which holds 40,000 supporters, only 3,000 of that figure includes away fans.With that in mind it is important to take the time to conduct thorough research and check official platforms for tickets. If you are hoping to attend Arsenal away, you should be able to locate availability at hellotickets.com and secure your spot in the away section at the Emirates Stadium to cheer on the Seagulls.
Memberships through the club will also provide opportunities to purchase tickets for upcoming away trips up and down the country. There will also be occasions where regulars are unable to make the game due to unforeseen circumstance and may advertise spare tickets
Sort your Travel in Advance
When heading to an away game with Brighton, it is a smart move to arrange all of your travel in advance so that you know you can get to and from the match with as little hassle as possible.Fortunately England is relatively easy to travel through and the furthest trip for Brighton fans is Newcastle up in the North-East while cup draws against Sunderland and Middlesbrough would also involve a lengthy trip. From the Amex up to the Magpies' St James' Park is a six hour journey and therefore a 12-round trip and so it's important to assess different travel options for such excursions.
Trains in the UK can be a decent option for such a journey but can be unreliable due to delays and also pricey. You can drive directly but this may not be a choice if you are hoping for a care-free trip with little responsibility. There are also supporter coaches which will drive you directly to the stadium and straight back after the full-time whistle which is ideal if you are not considering staying over and simply travelling for the one game.
Be extremely wary of fixture changes as Premier League match dates and kick-off times can be switched months before the clash. Don't book too early or you could find yourself with travel arranged but the match moved back which will prove a logistical headache.
Arrange Accommodation
When planning accommodation, always ensure you are not located too far away from the stadium as it could prove a nightmare getting to and from the hotel or apartment if you are out in the sticks, for example. Some stadiums, especially modern builds, are situated out of town and so you should make it a priority to check out exactly where the ground is based in relation to the city centre.As you'll only be making a brief stop to watch the match and head home the next day, it may be an idea to check out cheap and cheerful options and budget stays which will provide you with everything you need and require without breaking the bank.
Head Out for Food and Drinks
One of the best things about a football away day is sampling the different food and drink options around the country. The stadiums in the Premier League now all cater to different preferences and so there is often something for everyone. Of course, you will get your usual classics like pies, hot dogs and burgers but there are plenty of food stalls dotted around grounds now meaning you can check out different options and even vegetarian choices.A number of grounds are also located in places with plenty of pubs and eateries meaning you can enjoy a drink and bite to eat in the hours before and after the fixture.
Enjoy a Weekend City Break
When the Brighton fixture list is announced, there are trips to London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Newcastle to experience throughout the Premier League season among plenty of other cool places. Each away trip offers you the chance to enjoy an extended city break where you can explore next places while also watching the Seagulls in action.By looking ahead to the fixture, you can plot a few days away and check out museums, art gallery and events around the country in conjunction with supporting Brighton.
Overall, there is something truly special and exciting about following your team home and away and trips every few weeks to top clubs around the country is a thrilling experience..