Support the Bulls at Birmingham this Evening

Hereford United travel to Birmingham later today for what is expected to be one of the best supported away game for many years other than the Conference play-off final at Leicester one year last spring.

Games at near neighbours Shrewsbury usually bring out the away support and, when in the Conference, Hereford once had more fans at Forest Green than home support, but this evening will surpass those numbers.

Around twenty coaches are believed to be travelling.

Any supporter who hasn't booked a seat on a coach could try contacting either HUISA at Hereford United on 01432 276666 or HUMADS for Reg on 01684 572945. No doubt one or two who have booked seats may be unable to travel so a couple of spare seats are probable even at this late stage.

With a fair proportion of Bulls support travelling by coach to St Andrews, there will be less pressure on the surrounding area for car parking for those driving to the game.

This evening is a good opportuntity to follow the Bulls at a Premiership stadium not too far from Hereford. The team is unbeaten so far this season and, particularily against Yeovil in the first round of the Carling Cup, have played some very entertaining football. This evening won't be easy but the more support the Bulls have, the possibility of a cup shock is just a little more likely.

Tickets for the game will be on sale at St Andrews priced just £10 for adults and £5 for concessions.

Support the Bulls at Birmingham this evening. Help make it a performance to remember.

Below is a reminder of the travel details as written by Ex-Landlord and published by Bulls News last Friday.

The Blues Carling Cup Travel.

Carling Cup 2nd Round
Birmingham City v Hereford United
Tuesday 28th August Kick-off 7.45 pm.
St Andrews Birmingham B9 4NH

The St Andrews ground has changed dramatically over the last decade. Gone are old traditional terraces and side stands to be replaced by an 30,000 all-seater facility that has seen three-quarters of the stadium re-built. All that remains is the Main Stand, which was built in 1952. Visiting fans are accommodated in part of the lower tier of the Railway End Stand, which provides for up to 4500 supporters. The views from this stand are pretty good and the facilities include both food and alcohol outlets. It is worth bearing mind that a certain section of Birmingham fans are particularly passionate about their club and this can make for an intimidating atmosphere for away supporters. I would advise as a precaution to keep your club colours covered around the ground or in the city centre. The crowd when on form can still give a great rendition of the Blues anthem "Keep Right On To The End Of The Road".

By Car: - From Worcester, use the M5 then join the M42 at J4a. Leave the M42 at J3 (sign Birmingham South) and join the A435. Follow all signs for Birmingham (A435) through Yardley Wood and Kings Heath and onto Alcester Road South. At Haden Circus (Jct 1) roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Highgate Middleway - A4540 (signposted Ring Road, Birmingham Airport). At Camp Hill Circus (Jct 19) roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Bordesley Middleway - A4540 (signposted Ring Road, A38M, M6). At Bordesley Circus (Jct 18) roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Coventry Road - B4128 (signposted Small Heath, Bordesley). After just under half a mile, turn left into Tilton Road and then left again onto Garrison Lane. St. Andrews is clearly visible from the Coventry Road. There is a small car park directly outside the entrance to the away end, but availability of space for cars is determined by how many away coaches are expected as they park in the same car park. Coach and minibus drivers are advised to make arrangements for parking by contacting the club before travelling. There is plenty of street parking around the ground but beware of the "mind your car mate" lads who will be out in strength. Best advice is to offer to tip them a few quid after the game rather than paying beforehand so they can simply vanish with your money. There are also some local schools and businesses that offer parking facilities for around £4-£5.

Train: - Looks to be out of the question for those in and around Hereford as the last train back with connection through to Hereford leaves 30 minutes before the end of the game (even without extra time).

HUISA: - Departs The Street 4.15 pm Fare £8 Bookings in Legends prior to Rochdale game or Club office (01432 276666)

HUMADS: - Depart Edgar Street 5.00 pm, Cross Keys, Malvern 5.45 pm and Worcester M5 J7 at 6.15 pm. Fare £7.00 contact Reg on 01684 572945.

FUNBUS: - Depart The Street at 5.00 pm promptish.. Fare Est. £8.00

Pubs: - Given the evening kick-off, it is unlikely that much time will be available for pre-match refreshments. One point I would make is an advisability of avoiding those Pubs close to the ground, as Blues fans tend to be fairly protective of their drinking holes. However, for those determined to spend a little time in Birmingham before the game, I recommend the Anchor in Bradford Street (near the Digbeth Coach Station) or The Wellington on Bennetts Hill (just off New Street).

COYB

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