Newcastle United supporters planning to attend the Emirates FA Cup third-round tie against Sunderland, the first clash between the two clubs in over 60 years, need to be aware of crucial information for a smooth experience.
The Magpies have been allocated 6,000 seats for the match, scheduled for January 6th at the Stadium of Light, marking their return to Wearside since 2015.
Travel to Wearside
In an effort to ensure the safe transit of the away supporters and alleviate congestion on public transport, Northumbria Police has imposed strict conditions. All visiting supporters attending the match are required to travel on a free return bus service between St. James’ Park and the Stadium of Light. This service will be organized and funded by Newcastle United.
To implement safety conditions, fans will receive a valid bus ticket in advance along with their away match ticket. This paper bus ticket will grant access to a bus departing from St. James’ Park to the Stadium of Light. Upon arrival at the stadium, Newcastle United staff on the official bus service will provide each traveler with a match ticket.
For this fixture, travel groups are not operational. Instead, tickets will be distributed when exiting the bus in rows. Supporters are encouraged to exit the bus with those they wish to be seated with.
Departing St. James’ Park
Bus tickets will have designated arrival times at St. James’ Park, and fans are advised to arrive well before their departure time. All travelers must be at the stadium before 10:45 am.
Supporters with away tickets should queue in the tunnel under the Milburn Stand at St. James’ Park, arriving from the Gallowgate End. A soft ticket check will take place before allocating queueing lanes to access the buses.
No alcohol will be allowed on the buses, and the provided route map indicates the fan arrivals and queueing system.
It’s important to note that ‘Black Cats Bar’ ticket holders will receive their departure information directly via email and will not use the aforementioned location.
A strict no bag policy (other than medical bags) is in place for this fixture.
Safeguarding and Accessibility
To ensure the safety of young supporters, all under-14s must be accompanied by an adult throughout the journey and during their time at the Stadium of Light. This will be checked at St. James’ Park and may be rechecked at the Stadium of Light.
Supporters with accessibility needs for transport to Wearside are encouraged to contact [email protected].
At the Stadium of Light
Upon arrival at the Stadium of Light, fans will have immediate access, with 17 turnstiles available. Soft drinks, alcohol, and food concessions will be accessible from arrival until departure.
Wheelchair ticket holders will enter the Stadium of Light via the Black Cats Bar, where Newcastle United staff and stewards will be present to assist.
Any safeguarding incidents or concerns on the day can be reported to the nearest steward.
Departing Sunderland
After the game’s conclusion, Newcastle United supporters will be held back until the stadium vicinity clears. Concessions and toilet facilities will remain available during this period, and fans can then reboard the buses to head back to St. James’ Park.
Overall Experience
The imposed conditions for this fixture are not expected to set a precedent for future league fixtures between the teams, according to Newcastle United. The club wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable trip to Wearside.
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By- Sahiba Suri