Sutton United
Borough Sports Ground
Capacity:
5,013 (Seats 765)
Address:
Gander Green Lane, Sutton, SM1 2EY
Telephone:
020 8644 4440
Fax:
020 8644 5120
Pitch Size:
110 x 70 yards
Pitch Type:
Grass
Club Nickname:
The U's
Year Ground Opened:
1898
Home Kit:
Amber and Chocolate
The Grandstand, located on one side of the pitch, was opened in 1951. This simple single tiered all seated Main Stand has a capacity of 765 seats and is covered. It does though have a row of supporting pillars located along its front. The stand runs for around half the length of the pitch but is situated off centre, in comparison to the halfway line. The team dugouts are also situated at the front of this stand. Oddly the blue and red seats of the Grandstand do not reflect the Club’s colours. In one corner of the ground in-between the Grandstand and Collingwood Road End is a blue two storey rectangular portacabin type structure that has a small electronic scoreboard on its roof. Between this and the Main Stand new terracing was added in 2022 and named The Tardis Terrace. Though built for the Home Fans, it will used for Away Fans if demand requires.
Opposite the railway side of the ground is a small covered terrace, called the Recreational or Rec Terrace, that has a box-like structure on its roof, which is used for television cameras. The terrace itself is set well back from the pitch. Both ends have small covered terraces, which are similar in design. One of these the Collingwood Road End was opened in 2015, though in 2022 was replaced with a half and half terrace/seated stand, which houses away supporters, as well as new floodlights and turnstiles.. The Gander Green Lane End opposite is unusual in that it has sweeping curved open terraces around each corner, either side of the covered terrace behind the goal. giving the stadium a bit of character. Their oval curvature gives a clue to the fact that the ground once used to have an athletics track surrounding the pitch. In-between one of these terraces and the Rec Terrace there use to be a small separate portion of terracing, which was nicknamed the ‘Shoe Box’ by the local fans, though demolished in 2022. The Club plays on an artificial 3G playing surface. The stadium is completed with a set of modern looking floodlights.
Away fans are mostly housed in the Collingwood Road End. This a mix of a modern terrace and towards the Main Stand a seated stand which are both covered, meaning that not only is there some shelter from the elements, but also that fans can more easily generate some noise. To gain entrance to this stand, you need to walk through the park alongside the ground. The toilets at that end are from a bygone era, but now accompanied by portacabins!
Also look out for the unusual looking club mascot called Jenny the Giraffe, not that you can easily miss her!
There is little to report in terms of physical stadium developments around the Sutton United ground, however, the start of the 2021/22 campaign did see the club enter a four-year sponsorship agreement with Vulcan Building Services hence you’ll see the stadium referred to as the VBS ground.
Behind the Grandstand there is a Social Club, which welcomes away fans and normally has real ale available. Alas, the nearby Plough pub has now closed down. Around a ten minute walk away at the traffic lights on the main A217 is the Gander pub. Andrew Goddard advises; ‘If a large attendance is expected then it may be advisable for away supporters who are travelling by rail, to make use of the pubs in Sutton town centre rather than relying on the Social Club at the stadium. The pub options in the town centre are numerous if somewhat bland, being largely pubco-owned efforts that undergo the relevant re-brand every five years or so, to paper over their respective cracks. There is a Wetherspoons called the Moon on the Hill, doing exactly what it says on the tin, an ‘All Bar One’ and a handful of other options clustered at the top of the High Street all within five minutes walk of Sutton railway station. One of the better options may be to try ‘The Old Bank’ immediately to the right of Sutton station as you exit. There should be something to cater for most tastes and all the usual High Street restaurant chains are also present.
Sutton Railway Station is only one stop (or two minutes travelling time) on the train away from West Sutton station that adjoins the ground.
Leave the M25 at Junction 8 and take the A217 towards Sutton. On nearing Sutton you will reach a small roundabout where you bear left continuing on the A217 towards Central London. At the second set of major traffic lights (the Gander Inn is on the left hand corner) turn right into Gander Green Lane. The Borough Sports Ground is about 200 yards up this road on the left hand side.
There is a car park at the ground but this is for permit holders only. There is street parking available but further away from the ground due to a local residents parking scheme, so please check signage on lamposts for restrictions.
Adjacent to the ground is West Sutton Railway Station which is only a couple of minutes walk away from Sutton United. It is served by trains via Sutton, London St Pancras and Bedford. As you come out of the narrow station entrance, turn right and the entrance to the ground is down on the right.
Booking train tickets in advance will normally save you money! Find train times, prices and book tickets with Trainline. Visit the website below to see how much you can save on the price of your tickets:
Sutton have long called Gander Green Lane – or Borough Sports Ground as it is commonly known – home having first moved into the stadium in 1912. The club only stayed for around a year before a period playing elsewhere owing to the ground being occupied by another side – the Sutton Adult School team. Sutton United though returned post WWI and have been tenants ever since. Prior to 1912 the club played on numerous grounds.
Adults £17**
Concessions £10**
Under 18’s £5*
Under 11’s Free
To access the seated area, then an additional £2 transfer fee is payable inside the ground.
Concessions apply to Over 60’s, Full Time Students and those in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance.
** A £2 discount can be gained on this price if the ticket is bought in advance of the game online.
* A £1 discount can be gained on this price if the ticket is bought in advance of the game online.
Official Matchday Programme £3.
Sutton United FC fixture list (takes you to the BBC Sports Website).
Sutton vs Bromley rivalry
The Sutton vs Bromley rivalry isn’t something you’ll find when looking up London derbies but, rest assured, these two know how to go at it. They’ve both spent a lot of time in the lower region of England’s pyramid and with just 13 miles between the Sutton United ground and Bromley’s home stadium, it’s hardly a surprise that things can get heated.
Sutton vs Carshalton rivalry
This is another fixture that is built on geography and a number of lower division meetings over the years. There is less than 3 miles between the two clubs meaning non-League bragging rights have long been on the line. Recent times though have seen Sutton United pull ahead giving them plenty to boast about.
Sutton vs Kingstonian rivalry
Finally, we have the Kingstonian rivalry. Again, this is all about being in close proximity with just over 5 miles between the clubs.
Record Attendance
14,000 v Leeds United
FA Cup Fourth Round, 24th January 1970.
Average Attendance
2018-2019: 1,910 (National League)
2017-2018: 2,214 (National League)
2016-2017: 1,660 (National League)
Official Web Site: www.suttonunited.net
Unofficial Web Site: From The Lane
If anything is incorrect or you have something to add, please e-mail me at: contact@footballgroundguide.com and I’ll update the guide.
Special thanks to Paul Willott and Andrew Goddard for providing the photos of the Borough Sports Ground, Sutton United, for this page.
Sutton United v Ebbsfleet United
Conference South League
Saturday 16th April 2016, 3pm
Paul Willott (Neutral fan)
This fixture had popped up on the radar some 3-4 weeks earlier as a match that very easily could be a promotion decider given the unbelievable run that the home side were on, complete with a few games in hand too. Fate on this occasion had not disappointed either, and come match day both teams were level on points with the third placed club, Maidstone United, now too far behind to pose a serious threat. Added to the mix was the spice that although Sutton had a game in hand, there was the potential of a three point deduction for them over an alleged use of incorrectly registered player as a substitute earlier in the season.
I was unashamedly turning up to this fixture rooting for the away side; over the past 18 years I’d been to watch a fair few games at Stonebridge Road and still often trip over my tongue as I try to refer to them as Gravesend & Northfleet, rather than Ebbsfleet. I was really hoping they would win. I along with my workmate that I was attending the match with felt that they really needed the win given that the home side had a game in hand and were on an astonishing 23 game unbeaten run, setting records along the way as they did so.
So, hoping for an away win for the ‘Fleet to hopefully propel them back into the top tier of non-league, I cheerfully set off from my little house in Chatham down to the railway station. And that really is where the day took a downward trajectory for a while. Now most folks, when they get to a railway station, would expect to get on board a train. It’s not an unreasonable expectation. But not so for the burghers of Chatham and nearby towns, as once again I found the station closed and an army of rag-tag double deck buses waiting to be despatched on rail replacement services. However, the 'Gods of Comedy' weren’t finished yet, as the local utilities set-up had decided to set up temporary road works on the north side of the old ‘A2’ road bridge across the Medway complete with alternate way traffic lights that meant a road trip that would normally take five minutes took in excess of 45 minutes just to get across the bridge.
Main Stand
I decided to persevere, and once finally at Bromley South, I briefly toyed with aborting my original mission and going to watch Bromley v Torquay as it was nearly 1.30pm. But taking into consideration my friend who was looking forward to linking up with me at Sutton, I opted to stick with plan ‘A’ and took the 119 bus to East Croydon whereupon I jumped a taxi for the rest of the trek to my original destination. The cab may have set me back some £30, but it was worth it in the end to at least get to the ground comfortably before kick-off.
Gander Green Lane is not the most imposing of venues when viewed from the road Indeed over the years I had driven past the ground on a few occasions and as I joined the queue to pay my £12 to get in I was prepared to be under whelmed. I have to say I was actually pleasantly surprised by the appearance of the ground once inside. Although the two covered terraces behind either goal are very much on the small side, the Main Stand alongside the pitch is of a reasonable size and pretty much dominates the stadium. Opposite the Main Stand is another fairly small covered terrace, but the real gem for me were the two stretches of quaint curved open terracing that flanked the terrace behind the goal at the Gander Green Lane End.
Once I’d acquired a matchday programme for the price of £2, I ambled around to the Collingwood Lane End and picked a spot on the terrace.This was the end that was seemingly the home for the Ebbsfleet fans, although there was no segregation being enforced, and awaited my colleague to join me. The relatively new 3G pitch looked smart, and the renovations that had taken place alongside that seem to have whisked away any lasting remains of the athletics track that used to reside here. The atmosphere was building quite nicely beforehand, and the Ebbsfleet players came over to show their appreciation of the large away support once they’d finished their warm up routine. One sensed that they certainly felt they could put a stop to Sutton’s fine unbeaten run.
Gander Green Lane End
A healthy crowd had certainly built up by kick-off, and as some of us reminisced about the big top of table clash with Canvey Island some 15 years ago that saw a crowd in excess of 4,500 in Stonebridge Road (the official figure; many youngsters were seen wriggling over the fencing and some suggested the real figure could be nearer 6,000 ), and regular ‘Fleet fans declared that this was probably their biggest game since then. Oddly enough , the prize back then was the same; a place in the top flight of non-league football.
The game got underway, and to start with it was a cracking game of football that defied my expectations. All too often these matches never spark into life when so much is at stake, but both teams were playing good football and during the first 20-25 minutes, the ‘Fleet were on top and were carving out the better chances. Alas, somewhat against the run of play, Sutton scored from a cross that had floated in from the right wing, and from then on, ‘Fleet seemed to lose their way in the midfield and the home side started to control the gameplay with relative ease. The saying that “goals change games” was certainly relevant here at Gander Green Lane. Worse was to follow from the Fleet perspective shortly before half-time when the referee awarded what seemed a ridiculous penalty to the home side, and not only did it infuriate the more passionate away supporters, even my more moderate colleague and I agreed it was one of the poorer penalty decisions given.
Unfortunately, once the Sutton player tucked the penalty away right in front of the Ebbsfleet supporters, he then unwisely gloated quite childishly in front of the away fans, and as several of his team-mates came to celebrate with him, they joined in the provocative gloating with one lowering himself so far as to make an obscene gesture. This garnered a very hostile reaction, with several bottles being hurled onto the pitch aimed at the Sutton players, one of which was struck on the head. It was a distasteful incident that spoilt the day for me, as there was no need for it. As the stewarding presence was minimal, I was just relieved that no supporters encroached on the field of play, as it could have got very ugly.
Collingwood Lane End
The less said about the second half, the better; it was a rather tedious anti-climax with Sutton playing a very effective game management plan and Ebbsfleet seemed to have run out of ideas. Such was the tedium, we sloped off to see if any food was still available and were pleasantly cheered to find that the club had planned and catered for a much larger crowd than usual so we parted with £3:80 for a giant cheeseburger each that was far better than you’d get at many a league ground. It was almost a relief when the final whistle sounded really; Sutton celebrated as though they’d won the league whereas the Ebbsfleet supporters trooped disconsolately away, resigning themselves to the seeming inevitability of the play-off lottery.
We agreed amongst ourselves though that on the day, the better team won, and although disputed, the penalty award didn’t really affect the outcome of the game, as Fleet had already gone off the boil by then. That incident, and the disappointing silliness afterwards detracted from what could have been a great occasion. Sutton had enjoyed a bumper crowd, some 3,180 from recollection, some three times in excess of their recent league encounters, and there had been no friction between any of the supporters despite the lack of segregation.
The Old Fashioned Open Terrace
I wended my way home, and found the match day programme was a little thin on substance, although I’ve come across worse, and once I’d flicked through that I reflected on the afternoon. I suspect that Sutton supporters wouldn’t have cared too much about the quality of the match overall; they’d secured a huge three points over their promotion rivals, and with games running out could probably start to daydream about how they’ll fare in the Conference National next season.
Gander Green Lane certainly won’t look out of place in the higher division, although it will probably feature as one of the smaller stadia. Maybe one of the ends behind the goals could be a candidate for being enlarged, or the terrace opposite the Main Stand perhaps? First of all, lets see how Sutton fare next season if they seal the deal for promotion and can consolidate in the higher level, and maybe then it may be time to splash a little cash on the ground.
Anyone for the derby against Bromley next season?
Plus points for Gander Green Lane
1 Easily accessed by bus and/or train
2 Some lovely terracing, reminiscent of a bygone age
3 Catering manages to serve a far larger crowd than normal, and was good quality
Minus points for Gander Green Lane
1 Match day programme was distinctly average
2 Ground could be in need of development if the club can sustain itself at a higher level
Sutton United v Dagenham & Redbridge
National League
Monday 29th August 2016, 3pm
Joel Page (Dagenham & Redbridge fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Borough Sports Ground?
Dagenham were flying high in our first National League season in almost a decade and came into this fixture having just smashed Wrexham 3-0 in front of the BT Sport cameras so I was optimistic ahead of our visit to a team who had been promoted last season.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We left Dagenham relatively early for this Bank Holiday trip and, after three trains and a bus, plus a longer-than-expected walk, we were at Gander Green Lane and the Borough Sports Ground. The journey was very easy and the ground well signposted.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We arrived at the ground at around 1pm and I bought a nice-looking programme for £2.50 before looking around the premises; it was a very tidy, cosy, non-league ground. Then I ventured into the clubhouse which was very welcoming, as were all of the home contingent.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Borough Sports Ground?
One of the things I'm enjoying about the National League is no segregation, enabling you to mingle with fans of both clubs in a friendly manner. Other than a stand along the perimeter of one side, the rest was made up of terracing and all the Daggers fans gathered behind one of the goals. It was better than I expected and really a good advertisement for non-league football.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc.
On the contrary, the game was less enjoyable and more frustrating, as our failure to adjust to the 3G surface led to us conceding the only goal of the game on nine minutes. There was still a buoyant atmosphere amongst both fans but, despite many chances and a deserved sending of for the hosts, we were unable to find a leveller and the game ended 1-0 to Sutton.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I slumped out of the ground feeling very dejected and downbeat but was soon on the bus and then trains home. Navigating our way out of the ground was easy and I arrived home at about 7pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall, it was an enjoyable day let down only by the result. Sutton's ground is a lovely, as is their club shop, and teams like us could learn a lot from them. They were very welcoming, and I hope to visit Gander Green Lane again and recommend others to do so.
Sutton United v Tranmere Rovers
National Football League
Saturday 17th September 2016, 12.15pm
Jim McClenning (Tranmere Rovers – my second team)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Borough Sports Ground?
The Borough Sports Ground was to be another ground to cross off my London grounds list.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey was very easy, from where I live in the Ladbroke Grove area of North West London.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I got to Sutton United about 10.30am as it was an early 12.15pm kick off for television coverage. Just as I arrived the bar was opening, which was good timing on my part! I had a pint, then an excellent bacon roll, followed by another pint, some TV watching, then into the ground itself.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Borough Sports Ground?
My first thoughts were that Sutton United is a decent ground, friendly with helpful staff.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The atmosphere was very good, with both set of fans mixing, with some good old fashioned banter. Tranmere should have scored with a the few minutes, hitting the crossbar. Once both sides had settled down, a decent match followed, Sutton United scored just after the start of the second half, and managed to hold on for the win.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting there and getting away was the easiest ever in my experience of going to football, with the train station situated right next door.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
First time I had been to Sutton's ground, hopefully not the last, I had a good afternoon.
Sutton United v Cheltenham Town
FA Cup Second Round
Saturday 3rd December 2016, 3pm
Paul Oxenbury (Cheltenham Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Borough Sports Ground?
I was somewhat ambivalent. I always enjoy an away trip and a chance to go to a new ground. But having watched Cheltenham's disastrous performance the week before at Cambridge and given the importance of the game, I wasn't optimistic of a positive result.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I took the National Express coach from Gloucester to London Victoria which was as smooth as usual on a Saturday morning. From there I walked to Blackfriars (which is now my new favourite London railway station!) to get a train to West Sutton, which is only a few minutes walk from Borough Sports Ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
As it was a nice day and not too cold, I decided to walk round London for a couple of hours. I went from Victoria to Trafalgar Square onto the Millennium Bridge where I walked around the Christmas markets outside the Tate Modern before crossing back over the river, walking to the Old Bailey on Fleet Street and finally taking a look at St Paul's Cathedral before admiring the view of London from Blackfriars station.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Borough Sports Ground?
The Borough Sports Ground looked like a standard non-league stadium at first. For the second time in two weeks, I had to walk through a park to get to the away end which was not clearly marked (my guess is because Sutton games would be rarely segregated). The view from the away end is not the best. The stand is very shallow and because the of the 3G pitch, the ground has been raised slightly so seeing action in the opposition half is something of a problem. Other than that, the ground is a pretty standard non league set-up. The Main Stand seems to give a good view while the terracing seems in good enough condition.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Considering what was at stake, with the winners having the potential of a glamour draw in the third round, then the first half was a strangely muted affair with Cheltenham having the better of the game and taking the lead. This changed dramatically when Sutton levelled right at the start of the second half. Suddenly the game opened up, Cheltenham had more of the play but did little with it while Sutton had the better chances. In the 96th minute, Sutton hit Cheltenham with the ultimate sucker punch taking the tie 2-1 creating an amazing noise from the home fans and a lot of anger and exasperation from visiting supporters.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
No problem. The train was a little late, a couple of changes at Wimbledon then at Clapham Junction, where there were plenty of happy Crystal Palace and England Rugby fans, and then straight to Victoria and coach home which apart from a slight delay heading out of London was incident free.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Something of a damp squib unfortunately, which had more to with the Cheltenham team than the ground experience itself.
Sutton United v Leeds United
FA Cup 4th Round
Sunday 29th January 2017, 2pm
Paul Dickinson (Leeds United fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Borough Sports Ground?
I'd already been to Sutton United to get the ground ticked off a few years ago but it was a chance to see Leeds there and with an away allocation of only 750 given, a rare opportunity to see a Leeds away game with so few fellow whites there
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We sometimes drive to Newark to get a train to London as tickets can be a lot cheaper than from Leeds, and so it proved on this occasion. Once at Kings Cross, it was then the tube to Victoria and the Dorking train to Sutton
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Having been before and not being that impressed by Sutton town centre, we opted to stay on the train to the next stop at Cheam. This was a great call as lots of places to eat and drink and then an easy 20 minute walk to the ground through the park.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Borough Sports Ground?
In addition to watching Leeds every game, I also try and do 20-25 new non league grounds every season. I'm therefore used to non league grounds and enjoy being able to watch the game form different vantage points. Obviously today was different and segregation was in place, meaning a poor view and a good soaking as we couldn't get under the roof due it already being full by the time we arrived.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The least said about the game the better! Gary Monks decision to rest 10 players and give debuts to 3 young players spectacularly backfired – memories of being at Histon came flooding back. Fair play to Sutton though, they thoroughly deserved the win and all the plaudits that followed.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We stayed until the end and following a very brisk walk back to Sutton station (as it was a Sunday West Sutton was closed apart from just one train back into London 45 minutes after kick off), we got back to Kings Cross in time to catch the 5.20pm train back to Newark and I was back home in Leeds by 8pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
The result was obviously disappointing but I understood the reasons for the team selection, given we've got two away games in the league this week and with a playoff spot looking increasingly possible. The travelling was spot on and Cheam was a bonus – as ever, it was another great awayday!
Sutton United v Chester
National League
Saturday 22nd April 2017, 3pm
Phil Graham (Chester fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Borough Sports Ground?
It was the last away game of the season and I hadn't been to Sutton United since 1991
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I got the train down from Edinburgh to London Kings Cross then changed there to a direct train to West Sutton. The Borough Sports Ground is only a five minute walk from the station.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I went straight into the ground at about 2:30pm. Had a Burger and chips that were a bit expensive but that's standard in Football Grounds these days!!
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Borough Sports Ground?
The Sutton United ground has changed a bit since I was last there. Mainly the artificial pitch. I must confess I am not a fan of plastic pitches at all and don't think they should be used at any level of senior football. The goal posts are on wheels for goodness sake!! Great revenue for clubs that have them I guess but I can't really get into games that played on them.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Sutton United won 5-0 and scored some cracking goals. While Chester were poor but we have played just as poorly recently and won. Its was one of those days when every long range shot from Sutton United went in.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Easy exit from the ground and on a train back to Central London by 5.10pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A long day for no reward at a friendly club with a horrible pitch! I would go again but only for a Chester game due to the artificial pitch.
Sutton United v Leyton Orient
National League
Saturday 5th August 2017, 12.30pm
Robert Edwards (Leyton Orient fan)
Sutton United v Maidenhead United
National League
Saturday 2nd September 2017, 3pm
Dominic Hurst (Maidenhead United fan)
Sutton United v Maidenhead United
National League
Saturday 2nd September 2017, 3pm
Paul Stone (Maidenhead United fan)
Sutton United v Wrexham
National League
Saturday 17th February 2018, 3pm
Colin (Wrexham fan)
Sutton United v Wrexham
National League
Saturday 17th February 2018, 3pm
Gareth Thomas (Wrexham fan)
Sutton United v FC Halifax Town
National League
Saturday 1st September 2018, 3pm
Mike Finister-Smith (FC Halifax)
Sutton United v Barnet
National League
Tuesday 6th August 2019, 7.45pm
Andrew Weston (Neutral)
Sutton United v Hartlepool United
National League
Saturday 14th March 2020, 3pm
Dan Maguire (Neutral)
Game Attended
Sutton v OldhamCompetition
Sky Bet League 2Date
28/08/2021Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
Doing the 92Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
With the lifting of Covid restrictions I have five new grounds to visit this season to restore my 92 ground visits figure. Sutton was one of those and this was the first league game at their ground, previous matches having had to be postponed because the new playing surface was not readyHow easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Went by train. West Sutton station, which is only a few minutes from the ground, was closed because of bank holiday engineering works so had to use the main Sutton station. I was told that Sutton station was only a fifteen minute walk from the ground but it was a good twenty-five minutes.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Bought a programme at the Club Shop. Limited food available, one small serving hatch within the ground next to the main stand which attracted a large queue at half-time. Bought some chips, which were very tasty, before KO. Home fans very friendly - visiting supporters confined to one end.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Within a residential area and not very noticeable from the outside. One of the least attractive grounds in the Division. I sat in the stands and the seats were very small. Good crowd though and very supportive of their team. Visitors confined to one covered end behind which were large piles of earth suggesting some sort of building work underway.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Good game. Sutton had the best of the early play and should have won having taken a second-half lead, but lost through conceding two very late goals, one in injury time. Having lost in a similar manner away to Forest Green Rovers earlier in the season perhaps fitness levels not quite where they should be. Limited toilet facilities, portable loos only in one part of the ground.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Although a good crowd getting away was quite straightforward. Not many supporters at the station which suggests that most supporters probably live locally.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A good day out. Weather not bad, sunny with a few light splashes of rain. Although Sutton currently bottom of the table I think they will gradually move away from any relegation threat once they settle down.Images
Game Attended
Sutton United v Mansfield TownCompetition
League 2Date
23/11/2021Kick Off Time
19.45Team Supported
Mansfield TownWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Had always enjoyed my visits to Sutton when they were non-league, so interested to see how much the ground may have changed now they're a league club. It's also one of the closer grounds for me as an exiled Stags fan to attend.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Journey reasonably easy, although there are several different ways to get to Sutton from the South coast where I live. I came on the train, changing at East Croydon, Norwood Junction and then on to Sutton.The ground itself is easy to find if you travel to West Sutton, as it's right next door. As I walked from Sutton station itself, this is a little further, and involved cutting through a church graveyard before getting on the road for the ground. Still reasonably easy to find, although this time I approached the ground from a different direction.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Arranged to meet a friend for a drink in Sutton town centre, hence my not going as far as West Sutton for the ground. The home fans were ok, and helped us with directions when we were beginning to think we'd walked the wrong way.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
You had to buy a ticket from a booth to obtain entrance to the ground. This ticket was in the form of a sheet of paper which you then handed in at the turnstile. 20 quid to stand. There have been a few changes since Sutton reached the league. There is now segregation. Away fans were given a small covered terrace behind the goal, with a seated area alongside which just looked as though the seats had been tacked on to the terrace. At least it was all covered though, which it wasn't before. It also had a small scoreboard in this end. Behind the other goal is a larger, partially covered home terrace. Along one side of the ground is the main stand, with sections of terracing to either side. Along the other side is a largely uncovered standing area, with what looked like a meccano style stand toward the home terrace. This has been erected since I last visited, and in the dark, its difficult to tell what this looked like. All in all, it's still quite an old-fashioned ground that still seems very non-league.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
With the Stags having won their previous 5 games, I went into this game quietly confident. I should have known better! We were a goal down inside 4 minutes, and never looked like clawing it back. When Sutton got a second midway through the second half, I knew it was all over. We deservedly got nothing, and lost 2-0. Stags took 300 fans, and tried to make some noise, but the team gave us nothing to sing about. Sutton provided a decent programme (£3.00 for 56 pages, very heavy on the advertising) which was a pleasant surprise as their previous efforts were very poor .Food, as usual, was overpriced. The usual burgers, chips etc, but they also did bacon rolls, and sausage in a bun which were apparently locally sourced. The sausage in a bun was £4.50, and no better than anything I've tasted elsewhere. At half time, I had the worst cup of hot chocolate ever. Quite honestly, it was just coloured water, next to no chocolate taste at all. Don't know if the catering in the rest of the ground was like this, but if so, you wonder how the caterers get away with it. The loos were a disgrace. They reminded me of football ground loos from the 1970's. Just a couple of troughs and one cubicle. The one available sink was filthy, and there appeared to be no hot water from it. The stewards were mainly inconspicuous, and were never likely to have any problems from the Stags fans. Disappointingly, on the way out, we wanted to check we were heading in the right direction to West Sutton station, and incredibly, the young female steward we asked said she had no idea, even though we knew it was only a short walk away. Surely any stewards employed should at least have basic local knowledge of the ground and its surrounding area.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Thankfully easy to find West Sutton station, although the area looks very different when walking from the away end in the dark. Plenty of choices of train to get us home, so we got one to Wimbledon, and changed there for Clapham Junction for the last leg of the journey home. There was still a supermarket open at Clapham Junction, so we were able to stock up with beer and snacks. The high point of the night!Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
I had to be up for work at 4am on the morning of the game. I was home for 3pm,so although I was worn out, I'd promised my friend I'd make the effort to attend, even though by the time I got back after the game, I would have been awake for 21 hours. I wish I hadn't bothered. The Stags played poorly, and were beaten by a team who wanted it more. The stadium is still really a non-league ground, and the facilities, particularly the loos in the away end were poor. I used to like coming here when you could stand where you liked, and have a pint in the club house behind the main stand, but somehow, the charm has vanished now it is a league groundImages
Game Attended
Sutton United v Exeter CityCompetition
League TwoDate
01/01/2022Kick Off Time
3:00 pmTeam Supported
Exeter CityWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
As an away regular this was my first away game since pre pandemic times and being a new ground for me.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Being New Years Day it made for an unusually quiet, and easy, drive up from Devon. I managed to find a parking space in a quiet residential area less than 10 minutes walk from the ground.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
As I arrived early around midday I went for a walk around the local area and park near to the ground.I met a few Sutton Supporters outside and found them to be friendly and helpful.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Gander Green Lane is very much a non league looking place and in need of some serious development if they’re going to establish themselves as a Football League club, that said it’s not an unpleasant place to watch a game of football at all. I stood on the covered away terrace behind one of the goals which provided a decent view of the match.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was one of those matches that neither side deserved to win although Sutton ended up grabbing all 3 points with an 89 minute winner from the penalty spot to win 2:1. The catering facilities could do with an upgrade and were a bit basic, stewards came across as easy going and polite.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
I got away from the ground very easily with only light traffic. I think that was because it was New Year’s Day.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
I found Sutton to be a friendly easy going place but as I said some stadium redevelopments are very much needed.Images
Game Attended
Sutton United v Forest Green RoversCompetition
League TwoDate
12/02/2022Kick Off Time
1500Team Supported
FGRWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Another ground to tick off, and I was looking forward to visiting the ground of a traditional, long-established club with a strong community basis , now in their first season in the EFL.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Reasonably easy, being Greater London there are loads of public transport options. I got the tube to Morden and then the no 80 bus to behind the ground (knowing that is where there is a second entrance to a path that leads to the away end). The ground is very unassuming, between a park and a railway line, and doesn't have much in the way of a visual presence.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I got there too late to go to the club bar, as I'd hoped to. Lots of Sutton fans around, the atmosphere was warm, even on a near-freezing day.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The heritage of the ground as a non-league place of long standing was evident. Not flash, not smart, not modern, and (to my mind a good thing) lots and lots of standing terraces. The away end is at the moment divided into two areas - a fairly shallow covered terrace behind a goal that stretches for around half the width of the pitch (buliding works going on beyond that being presumably part of much-needed ground improvements), and then, arranged diagonally behind the corner flag, a covered seating area in a temporary tent-like stand not dissimilar to some of those at Bristol Rovers. The sightlines from here were adequate rather than brilliant or poor. The rest of the ground was an odd mishmash of stands and terraces, all a bit incoherent and presumably built at various times in the club's long history and long use of the ground. There was quite a distance between the stands to the side and the pitch itself. The terracing areas seemed packed full of (intermittantly) passionate home fans. Almost certainly a place with stories to tell. The programme was notably excellent, lots of info on events in the club's past, and the material on FGR was well-researched and written too. Catering faciliies - a burger shack. Toilets - primitive, really old-school, in a bad way, and also a portacabin.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was a clash of two of the clubs near the top of the League Two table, and it showed. FGR and Sutton have different styles of play, but both were very skilled in what they were doing, and were more or less equally matched (Sutton on top in 1st half, FGR in 2nd). The final result, 1-1 was about right, although I think there were numerous questionable refereeing decisions, mostly in Sutton's favour. The atmosphere was pretty decent, although our fans on the terrace maybe made more noise than the far more numerous Sutton ones for much of the game, but at times the Sutton fans were lively too, and there was a bit of back-and-forth in both directions. Stewards were notably friendly, reflecting the community nature of the club and it support. Certainly something to commend about Sutton's set-up. Food: I had a burger and chips, both of which while not being the worst or even the second worst I have had at a football ground in England, were some way less than great. (Third worst? Maybe) At least they weren't overpriced. Queuing for catering is not under cover, and no booze is served in the away end.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
A quick exit to the very nearby West Sutton railway station to catch the train at 5.07pm. Completely straightforward.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
What the ground lacks in quality of buildings and infrastructure (and some of this is being worked on, while the relatively unexpected nature of the team's sudden recent promotion to League Two also justifies things), it more than makes up for in warm and friendly spirit. I wish the club every success and look forward to seeing the ground as it develops further in the future, quite possibly in a higher league.Images
Game Attended
Sutton United v Forest Green RoversCompetition
League TwoDate
11/02/2022Kick Off Time
15.00Team Supported
NeutralWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
In the area and a chance to visit a new ground. Also both teams in top 4 and on lengthy unbeaten runs so promised to be an interesting game.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Drove and parked in a side road a short distance from the ground. Arrived just over an hour before kick off so no problem finding a space as most locals didn't seem to arrive until after 2pm.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Had my own flask and sandwiches with me so didn't need anything once at the ground. Home fans very friendly with a real family friendly feeling to the whole set up.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
This really was a step back in time with a real hotchpotch of different stands and terracing. However for me this is a large part of the enjoyment of attending lower league or non-league games, No checking the seat colours here to identify where you are, as is the case in most new identically built stadia! It is clear to see that the club has made many changes in order to meet FL requirements and that many more will be needed if they are to progress further up the leagues. Much of the terracing is open to the elements with only the visiting fans enjoying both seating and terracing all under cover. Some of the home terracing is very shallow, so if anyone thinking of bringing young kids it might be advisable to get there early to get to the front or purchase a seat. Spent a few minutes selecting the best place to view without a floodlight obstruction and game on!Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Both teams played some good football in an enjoyable game, with Sutton dominating the first half and deservedly going in at half time one up. As expected Forest Green turned things around in the second half and deserved their equaliser. Sutton however had the better chances in the closing stages and overall would probably feel they deserved to win. Final score 1-1. Enjoyable friendly atmosphere restricted a bit by the open nature of the stadium.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Could not have been easier. Short 7/8 minute walk back to the car and soon away and back onto the M25. For those using public transport buses stop almost outside the ground entrance and the train station is only a brief 4/5 minute walk away.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A really enjoyable game of football, on a lovely sunny winters day amongst very friendly fans and club officials. However had it been raining hard i'm not sure it would have been quite so enjoyable!Images
Game Attended
Newport CountyCompetition
League TwoDate
18/04/2022Kick Off Time
3.00pmTeam Supported
Newport CountyWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Another ground to tick off my list.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I just entered Collingwood Road in my sat nav and then spent five minutes searching successfully for free on street parking near the ground.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Went straight to the ground. Hardly saw any home fans.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
I'd done my homework on Google Earth so wasn't expecting much which was just as well. Has the appearance of a run down non league ground. Only went in away end.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The stewards were all polite and friendly. Decent choice of burgers, hot dogs etc. The toilets were disgusting. I mean really grubby. Newport only had themselves to blame for a defeat. Conceded a penalty and although their play in the second half was ok no real threat in front of goal.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Easy getting away.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Sutton have only just achieved EFL status and don't have much money and it shows in this shabby run down ground. Their fans were very quiet. Newport fans made all the noise.Images
Game Attended
Sutton v CharltonCompetition
FriendlyDate
16/07/2022Kick Off Time
3.00 pmTeam Supported
CharltonWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
A new ground.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Journey was ok, drove from Basingstoke via M3, M25 and A3 then followed satnav to the ground. Managed to park in a street near the ground but not much parking spaceWhat you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Went straight to ground.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Small but with room for improvement. Sutton have built a new away end for supporters, standing behind the goal with seats to the side.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Stewards very friendly and helpful. Didn’t use toilets or buy food so can’t comment on these aspects. Atmosphere was quiet as it was only a friendly.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
No problems getting away but I left before the end and it wasn’t a big crowd.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Happy to tick another ground off the list.Images
Game Attended
Sutton United v FarnboroughCompetition
FA Cup first roundDate
06/11/2022Kick Off Time
15:00Team Supported
FarnboroughWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
It was Farnborough's first game against an EFL side since we reformed in 2007, and the first time the club had played a professional team since we were beaten 5-1 at Highbury in 2003.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I had visited the ground before as I have friends who are Sutton fans, and I will say that it is difficult to know where to go to find the away end if you've not been before, as there are no signs from the street which indicate the away turnstiles.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I met up with a friend in an Irish pub in Morden (can't remember the name) before we hopped on a 413 bus to the ground. Didn't speak to any home fans but there were a few on the bus, and they were no trouble.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The ground had been modernised a little since my last visit, there was a new away stand for starters, but the rest of the stadium still looks very non-league, the other three stands are clearly past their prime.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Sutton were on top throughout most of the first half, with Jack Turner making some good saves to keep us in it, however we had a big chance of our own when Hisham Kasimu directed a free header over the bar. The second half was a much tighter affair, with Jack Turner making another great save around the hour mark, but with five minutes to go, Sutton failed to clear a throw in & Michael Fernandes was left unmarked to tap in the loose ball at the back post & send the away fans mad (myself included). It got even better from there, as deep into stoppage time, Francis Amartey raced away on the counter, rounded the Sutton keeper & slid the ball into the empty net to seal the win. Home fans were fairly quiet throughout, and most of them left after the second goal. Stewards were fantastic, some of them even joining in the Farnborough celebrations at the end.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Me & my friend stayed in the ground to celebrate the win for a while, after which most of the fans had left. We simply walked to the Wetherspoons in town, barely saw any home fans on the way.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Overall, while I thoroughly enjoyed the win & the away day, I must say that for an EFL club, this ground is no better than some of the grounds in the National League South that I have visited.Images
Game Attended
Sutton v BradfordCompetition
EFL League twoDate
12/11/2022Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
BradfordWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Easy by trainHow easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
5 minutes walk from West Sutton with regular service to central LondonWhat you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Travel straight to the ground.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Away stand now finished. Adequate toilets. Next time I would take a cap to shield eyes from direct sun light. Bad in spring and again in autumnComment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Really great stewards. Joined in our celebrations and high fives on exit. Made such a difference.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Easy. Low crowds and on train within 15 minutes of final whistle.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A two nil win and a wonder goal in front of the away fans. What’s not to like?Images
Game Attended
WimbledonCompetition
EFL TwoDate
01/01/2023Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
Sutton UnitedWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Our first meeting with our local rivals in a Football League game.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Short car journey. Street parking about a 10 minute walkWhat you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Home fans are the best in the league) ;-)What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The new away end is a vast improvement. See image below.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Very good game, Sutton playing some great football. A deserved win.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Short walk to parked car. No problem with the traffic.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
We beat Wimbledon!Images