Oldest Ground In The World - Hallam vs. Brighouse Town

Sun over Sandygate.

When visiting a friend in Sheffield I managed to catch a game at the oldest football ground in the world - Hallam FC's Sandygate. First used on Boxing Day 1860 against Sheffield FC, the ground is celebrating it's 150th birthday this year. Another interesting point is the incredible slope of the pitch! The ground is located in the hills surrounding Sheffield and the scenery around the ground is impressive.

Stand and clubhouse. Note the slope of the pitch.

Brighouse arrive in good form while Hallam are closer to the foot of the table. As with the game the previous night, the team in the lower league position upset the odds. Brighouse struggle kicking up the slope in the first half and Hallam take full advantage. Although their first goal was rather fortunate. A deep cross from the right hand side catches out the goalkeeper and flies in to the net. Hallam soon add a second as Brighouse struggle to get in to the game. The centre forward for Hallam somehow misses the goal when being unmarked on the edge of the six yard box. 

A Brighouse corner comes in to the box. Note the cricket club pavilion in the background.

Hallam soon add a third when the centre forward who missed the sitter at the end of the first half slots home when put through. Brighouse then start a comeback. A similar goal to Hallam's third sees the Brighouse striker give the away side some hope. They manage to get a second but Hallam hold out for a vital win.

View from the stand.

The welcome I had in the clubhouse is easily the friendliest I've revived at a ground. The clubhouse is a decent size and has a good choice of drinks. The 51 bus from outside the Crucible Theatre takes you right outside the ground and runs every 20 minutes. The bus journey is about 15 minutes If you want a drink before you enter the ground there is The Tap at the station itself which serves an impressive range of beers or there is The Plough opposite the ground. If you are in the area I highly recommend a trip to Hallam FC - a piece of football history and a fantastic welcome as well.

Hallam players celebrate the third goal.