Over
the years there have not been many occasions when I have spent a great deal of
time at the front of the ground and they were usually special 'occasions' - The
efforts to get rid of a chairman, queuing for tickets - particularly the Gillingham
game - who could ever forget that day! Now its the very last day at Maine Road
- the End of an Era - below are a few pictures to help capture those memories
that will pass into the history of this great club.
The
streets and alleyways around Maine Road are a familiar sight to supporters walking
or driving to Maine Road. Alas, in the old days the alleys were used by many as
urinals.
I
hope when Maine Road does finally come down, the area will be used to create an
environment to help the local people who have had to put up with us for the past
80 years and perhaps include a reminder of the clubs past history. Perhaps an
indoor sports facility for the local youngsters with a small commemorative garden
for those whose ashes have been laid to rest at Maine Road would be part of a
positive project for the future.
One
of the local householders had set up this display in their living room window
of old City programmes and memento's.
Entertainment
in front of the ticket office varied from trad jazz to calypso
Bumped
into Denis Law - above - just after parking the car and later nearly got my foot
run over by Robbie Fowler's taxi that was trying to worm its way through the crowd
infront of the main entrance. In the taxi also was Joey Barton -above who signed
a few autographs for fans.
It
looks like Noel G is arriving ......................................................and
yes he's looking good!
When
Shawn Goater arrived he spent a good twenty minutes signing autographs for the
crowd. Typical of this true blue professional. He will be sorely missed unless
he changes his mind!
Whichever
direction you are approaching the ground an important stop for many fans on their
way to Maine Road will be the 'Chippy' and no doubt the income of these establishments
will be hit by the move to Eastlands.
An
unused police horse keeping a watchful eye on supporters
I
wonder how long it will be before this youngster cleans that off his face!
Three
veteran supporters who perhaps have been watching longer than me!!
Yes,
they came from everywhere to celebrate this special day.
The
City Superstore had a busy day with long queues and to the right is the City house
soon to be left.
