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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