Having struggled through Saturday, and watching Bashley finally have their inevitable relegation from the Southern League mathematically confirmed, what better way to spend my Easter Monday than finding a game elsewhere to take my mind off things. So, at 9:37 precisely, I set off from New Milton heading for Sholing's Silverlake Arena, as they prepared to take on the mighty Bashley in the day's early kick off. I just can't get enough.
Sholing, who comfortably battered the Wessex Premier last season on their way to the title, lifting the FA Vase at Wembley in the process (they still haven't shut up about that) have nowhere to go this season and look odds on to finish in 17th, with three games of the campaign to play. The club absolutely broke my heart on New Year's Day this year, as a 93rd minute Alex Sawyer equaliser denied us our only home win of the season. We only have one more chance to amend that, at home vs Fleet Town on the 18th. Naturally, with nothing riding on the game, we set off with every intention to have a laugh and enjoy the day bathed in glorious sunshine.
The 13:00 kick off time meant an early start for us, and as aforementioned, it was the 9:37 train over from New Milton to get us there. During the 45 minute wait for our connection train at Southampton Central, I managed to just about sort out some breakfast at Subway, spending half of that time actually ordering because the only woman working in the place spoke a total of three words in English. Bacon, cheese and, oddly enough, "2 quid please love".
It's an easy walk to the ground from Sholing station, straight up the road for a good half hour or so. We shared a few jokes about the season, but each of us knew deep in our hearts that we were in with a chance of taking something from the game. How I'm still optimistic having watched us take only 8 points in the 38 games previous, I don't know, but you have to be I suppose. I was cheered to find that the Borough of Eastleigh, in which the club is located, are geographically aware, but with the number of tress surrounding the area, it makes you wonder why.
Sholing, who comfortably battered the Wessex Premier last season on their way to the title, lifting the FA Vase at Wembley in the process (they still haven't shut up about that) have nowhere to go this season and look odds on to finish in 17th, with three games of the campaign to play. The club absolutely broke my heart on New Year's Day this year, as a 93rd minute Alex Sawyer equaliser denied us our only home win of the season. We only have one more chance to amend that, at home vs Fleet Town on the 18th. Naturally, with nothing riding on the game, we set off with every intention to have a laugh and enjoy the day bathed in glorious sunshine.
The 13:00 kick off time meant an early start for us, and as aforementioned, it was the 9:37 train over from New Milton to get us there. During the 45 minute wait for our connection train at Southampton Central, I managed to just about sort out some breakfast at Subway, spending half of that time actually ordering because the only woman working in the place spoke a total of three words in English. Bacon, cheese and, oddly enough, "2 quid please love".
It's an easy walk to the ground from Sholing station, straight up the road for a good half hour or so. We shared a few jokes about the season, but each of us knew deep in our hearts that we were in with a chance of taking something from the game. How I'm still optimistic having watched us take only 8 points in the 38 games previous, I don't know, but you have to be I suppose. I was cheered to find that the Borough of Eastleigh, in which the club is located, are geographically aware, but with the number of tress surrounding the area, it makes you wonder why.
Sholing had laid on a 'pay what you want' for the game, and I have to say, fair play to them. The event went down really well, with a barbecue and hog roast included. A great afternoon was had by the 355 in attendance with not a cloud in the sky, and there was a great party atmosphere. Thoroughly enjoyable, so Sholing, congratulations to you.
The Silverlake Arena consists of seating down one half of the far touchline, with a small ultras stand next to it. The rest of the ground is hard standing, with the considerably small club bar, changing rooms and so on located behind the near goal. Our party commandeered one half of the ultras stand for the game, and it was brilliant. The two sets of fans sang for the full 90 minutes, throwing chants back and forth, amongst a load of banter. It was a brilliant atmosphere, and definitely the best I've encountered on my travels this season. Again, cheers for that boys.
The game itself was a great one, with the hosts sadly running out 4-2 winners. We took the lead within two minutes however, sending us into absolute pandemonium. It's nice to be able to celebrate a goal. When the second hit the net, we went equally as mental. After a long, arduous season, you have to enjoy the small things. The banter with their ultras was great as well, ranging from 'We'll teach your daughter naughty words' to 'How shit must you be, we've scored a goal'. I have a smile on my face just writing about it.
The game itself was a great one, with the hosts sadly running out 4-2 winners. We took the lead within two minutes however, sending us into absolute pandemonium. It's nice to be able to celebrate a goal. When the second hit the net, we went equally as mental. After a long, arduous season, you have to enjoy the small things. The banter with their ultras was great as well, ranging from 'We'll teach your daughter naughty words' to 'How shit must you be, we've scored a goal'. I have a smile on my face just writing about it.
The only downside would be Ethan getting dehydrated in the heat, and by the time the final whistle went, he was bringing up his guts in the nearest bucket. Poor lad just couldn't keep up with the pace. In fairness, the fact he was wearing a lion onesie probably didn't help him.
Cheers again for a great day Sholing, and good luck in your games for the rest of the season, and of course, going into 2015/16.
Sheridan
Sheridan