TT No.122: Dean McClean - Sat 17th November 2007. FA Vase 2nd Rd. Lowestoft Town v Desborough Town. Res: 1-0; Att: 362; Admission: £5; 40pp programme: £1.20; FGIF Match Rating 3*

View matchday images  01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10   A cold and dull afternoon in the Easterly coastal town of Lowestoft (very Easterly in fact, as the UK's most Easterly point lies within the town's boundary) was lit up by FA Vase fever, as United Counties League high-flyiers Desborough Town rolled into town, for this intriguing cup tie.   A large crowd of over 350 have gathered in expectation of a good game. A healthy crowd, though an average of 250 has been achieved over the season-very impressive!   Unfortunately, this was an unspectacular game, won by the wrong side, as Desborough gave us all a lesson in poor finishing, in a game that they really should have won. The only goal, a scrappy own goal on 52 minutes, eventually divided the teams. Two decent football teams nonetheless just couldn't produce the game they were probably capable of.   The ground is excellent and well worth the 500+ mile round trip from deepest Lancashire. A large stand, with unobstructed views, is the focal point of the venue; 500 wooden flip-up seats (think Turf Moor) provide ample shelter from the elements. A large covered terrace is located on the side of the grandstand, which is annoyingly poorly placed. The rest of the ground is open, hard standing save for a small quaint structure behind the far goal. Car parking is very limited, though street parking is readily available-even the Desborough Town coach has to park on the street, such is the tight nature of the ground-hemmed in on all four sides by houses. A large social club, with two bars, makes for welcoming place to kill some time and have a chat with the friendly locals before the game. There is also two tea bars, the first in the clubhouse and the second in a new building in the far corner of the ground, which also houses the club's changing facilities.   A very rewarding day out at this progressive club and marvellous ground. However, as much as I hate to, the one niggle to the day was the behaviour of 7 cerebrally challenged "fans" obviously from Desborough. Their language and overall behaviour was appalling; they should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves. Apart from that, a great day out.

contributed on 20/11/07