Me and the missus went (first time she's been since Wembley, but only a fan by association), and have to say we enjoyed it.
Parked at Wheels, but may try on-street next time as the reports seem pretty good.
Few minutes' walk via Garrison Road and Tilton Road, picked tickets up from the Kop Reception, and no queue to get in (about 2.15).
The seating vibe is similar to Ricoh - we were in the lower-numbered blocks nearer the Tilton Road End (agree that would make a fine WT substitute if we start doing well), so it took a while for the songs to filter along. But atmosphere was great, apart from the last 20 when we were doing nothing on the pitch - other than puffing as hard as the Southend physio, with a couple of great renditions of the Sky Blue Song.
I thought we were made really welcome throughout - so well done BCFC!
I thought Coventry had some pretty run-down areas, but ye Gods that place is a shithole. Did anyone else have to exit Wheels out towards Landor Rd? Fuck me that is depressing.
We went for a nice Indian in not-so-nice Smethwick (place called Chennai Dosa - think there's one in the Foleshill Road too), then got caught in the traffic leaving the cricket (i assume) down through Moseley, so diverted to the Stratford Road through Sparkbrook and Sparkhill. Lovely!!!
As for the game, we pressed really well in the first half. Hiwula should have scored after rounding the keeper, but it wasn't like we missed a hatful of sitters like we did last year. We moved the ball really well at times. Kelly, Westbrooke and Shippers linked up well together, and Mason and Hiwula had a good understanding.
Thought we played 4-1-4-1 first half (Kelly and Baka the 1s), then god knows what second half.
McFad looks class. Rose had a few scary moments, as did Mason, which is why McFad would be my MOM. Markosi did everything asked of him (which wasn't a great deal), and that reflex save near the end was great. Thought him and McFad had a good understanding.
Need more fitness, but that is to be expected. But all in all a good first time out and 3 points in the bag.
PUSB