"A new Spotland, a new Rochdale FC"

Rochdale FC used to be a laughing stock and Spotland an eyesore but all that has changed. The team is well established in the Third Division and the ground is neat and tidy. I particularly like the fact that the home end on Sandy Lane is still a traditional standing terrace while Dale fans are given the other end as well, so they are always kicking towards their own supporters while the away team are given a nice side stand all of their own.

Location

Not particularly handy for the town and station but the ground is in a pretty part of what is not a very prepossessing town, with all due respect.

View

Hard to see how the view could possibly be better. The stands are not very tall so no-one is up in the gods. For away supporters the view at Spotland is as good as it gets.

Facilities

Basic but a vast improvement on the old ground with its cinder and wooden terraces.

Food & Drink

Not tried.

Police & Stewards

Many years ago I saw a game at Spotland at which a tubby policeman laughed himself hoarse when Tranmere gave away a goal with a disastrous backpass. This was a unique experience in all my years of watching football!

Atmosphere

The ground was like a derelict graveyard in the 1970s but not any more. With home fans at either end there is plenty of atmosphere these days even though attendances tend to be in the 2/3000 range. The club and the stadium deserve to get more through the gate, frankly.

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