It was a ground that I had never visited before but wanted to go to see the team I support in an away fixture. The Walkers Stadium was built in 2002 and the Blades had previous played there twice before my visit.
The Foxes had previously played at a ran down Filbert Street and having being in the top flight it was seen fit to move to a new stadium outside of the City.
Club Guide
Team: Leicester City |
Like most modern day stadium the ground wasn't built to add character; just simplicity. Built in a bowl like figure with just one tier surrounding each of the four sides with each corner in turn filled in.
The facilities were at least up to scratch and offered average food and beverage facilities that are seen in most grounds inside and outside the Premier League.
Stadium and Pitch: 5/10
Its un-unique structure makes the Walkers Stadium look ugly, its clear from the off set that this ground (twined with Southampton) was built to look pretty nor magnificent; just easy to get to and good viewing for fans.
That of course is all well and good, I myself don't want to be sat behind a post when you have paid good money to see a football match. However I do like to see a ground have character for one this ground surely lacks.
Programme: 7/10
The programme for that particular day wasn't invited but I was however impressed with the nine page tribute to their opponents with some teams only print the basics.
Performance and Result: 7/10
United have yet to win at the Walkers Stadium and wasn't going to on that day either; the Blades had drummed out a 0-0 draw in their first ever visit (2002-03) and two seasons later lost 3-2. Elvis Hammond netted twice to set City onto a 4-2 victory with Steven Kabba and Craig Short scoring for the visitors.
Despite the result United played pretty well and hung on by the end of the season to finish in second place behind Reading and win promotion to the Premier League.
Atmosphere: 6/10
The City fans were in reasonable voice as were the visiting supporters.
Overall: 25/40
:: Previous Visits to Walkers Stadium ::
- Leicester City v Sheffield United (26/11/2005)