Went to Accy v Stevenage tonight, and lets get this out of the way - the match was awful, the pitch almost as bad, and both teams completely devoid of any real talent. 4 of us who go to every Dale game, and think we've seen some atmosphere at Spotland, all looked at each other as we walked out and went "fooking hell!!". They just did not stop singing. Not just a few at the back of the stand, but pretty much the whole stand. And call it tinpot if you like, but they had two drummers keeping it going and a catalogue of songs that was seemingly never ending. They stayed well after the final whistle too, the stands decked in Accy red and white everywhere, and something we all noticed was a lot of kids there too. I know its unlikely to be like that on a Tuesday night against Burton Albion but I can see why kids would want to go back to that, as apose to Spotland where even this season the atmosphere has been pretty dreadful at times. It was arguably their biggest game in recent history, 2-0 down from the first leg, but it was as if it was a Premier League title celebration party. The 3rd goal went in mid song and there wasnt a dip in volume. Unrelenting support and the only negativity was reserved for the referee, who quite rightly sent off an Accy player for a terrible looking tackle (didnt see what led to the 2nd red) but gave every other 50-50 decision Stevenage's way. Also gave a corner when the ball went out at least 10 yards up the pitch! We can argue all day long about the Sandy Lane v Pearl Street, but until we as fans adopt the mentality of the Accrington Ultras (granted, they could have chosen a much better name, if they need a name at all) then the atmosphere at Dale will always be rubbish. Whoevers Barmy Army next season, sing it loud and proud!! [Post edited 1 Jan 1970 1:00]
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