Thoughts on Watford game from a Japan Blade

[highgreeninjapan]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

 

[Nagima]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Excellent observations I couldn't agree more. Glad you got to an entertaining 1-0. That game had a bit of everything in it.

 

[JOE SHAW 1956]

Good job you didn't visit last year lol .... glad you had a good game coming all that way..plus in the championship... NO VAR .. proper foota. .

 

[Greasy Chap Butty]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Sounds like you've had a go ood trip, football and socially.
Also, seems like you are a good-luck charm for us, should come more often!

 

[Crafty Blade]

Great post

And yes. they have done a beautiful job at Leah's Yard, recommend any craft beer fan to check out the new Hop Hideout bar and bottle shop.

 

[SGBlade]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Excellent post mate. I’m based in Singapore and feel very similar to you. Took my 6 year old to his first game a couple of years ago (Milwall at home). Wish I could get back more often but we usually do our family trips in the summer. My dad’s been going to every home game for the last 50 years though and is still going strong, gives us a good reason to catch up often

 

[Bladeulike]

Nice post. Made me yearn to get back to the Lane (I’m only in London so no excuses!). Good match summary clearly written by someone who obviously appreciates others who do the same. Most of all though, a post that reminds everyone that no matter where you are in the world there’s always a place on Shoreham Street that we can all call home

 

[highgreeninjapan]

Excellent post mate. I’m based in Singapore and feel very similar to you. Took my 6 year old to his first game a couple of years ago (Milwall at home). Wish I could get back more often but we usually do our family trips in the summer. My dad’s been going to every home game for the last 50 years though and is still going strong, gives us a good reason to catch up often

Nice. Not had the guts to take my lad (just turned 6) to a United match yet (although he’s been to a few of our local team Yokohama F Marinos). Not ready for the “Daddy, what’s a soft southern bastard?” chats, yet!

 

[Antonb]

Great post really enjoyed reading about you thoughts and experience. Thanks

 

[Menage a petit pois]

Reading your post makes me realise how lucky I am. I may not know it at times. But deep down.... .it makes sense. I get to go with a group of mates home and away who are united by a shared love. Life is short, memories are what makes life bearable. Hope you have a great life in Japan. Glad you know where your soul resides... Peace out brother.

 

[Rufus Smalls]

Nice. Not had the guts to take my lad (just turned 6) to a United match yet (although he’s been to a few of our local team Yokohama F Marinos). Not ready for the “Daddy, what’s a soft southern bastard?” chats, yet!

If the Soft Southern Bastards confuses him, then his first Forest match will be interesting.

 

[ShockingBadBuy]

Smashing write-up. Pls hurry back!

Oh, and …

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

… VERY well observed.

 

[Edgar Allan Poo]

It's often a long trek from Lincolnshire TBF.

 

[s20Blade]

Anyone else read this in a broken English Japanese accent?

 

[Rochdaleblade]

Nice. Not had the guts to take my lad (just turned 6) to a United match yet (although he’s been to a few of our local team Yokohama F Marinos). Not ready for the “Daddy, what’s a soft southern bastard?” chats, yet!

I always preferred Yokohama fc

 

[highgreeninjapan]

If the Soft Southern Bastards confuses him, then his first Forest match will be interesting.

“We’re shouting ‘cabs cabs” cos there’s never enough taxis in Nottingham.”

Actually, given that me Mum used to drag me round Women Against Pit Closures aged 4 (me, not my mum), maybe I’d have to explain that one! Was already practicing “respect your women and drink your beer!” yesterday as had a young lad attending his first game in front of me.

I always preferred Yokohama fc

I thought about it - they’ve got a much better stadium for watching football - but we liked the Marinos kits more, the stadium’s slightly easier for us to get to (it’s also got a good swimming pool, so can go for a splash about in the lazy river before the game), and well, Yokohama basically get promoted from J2 or relegated from J1-We already support a team like that! Wanted him to have a Japanese team that competes to win stuff for fear he’ll go off footy for life!

 

[SwissBlade]

Nice. Not had the guts to take my lad (just turned 6) to a United match yet (although he’s been to a few of our local team Yokohama F Marinos). Not ready for the “Daddy, what’s a soft southern bastard?” chats, yet!

Used to enjoy the Marinos games when I was over there.

 

[GodricBlade]

“Souza and Peck - lovable nutjobs”
That deserves to be on a T-shirt.

highgreeninjapan - really enjoyed reading your post & observations of a full & busy matchday.
Safe travels home & come back soon!

 

[Melbourne Blade]

Lovely post mate thanks for your comments.

Small chance I'll be in Sheffield later this month so may post the same update but likely against Derby if I can get a ticket

 

[Blades Glory Owls Down]

Great write up!
Its posts like this that tug at my heart strings a bit. Its a little over 5 years since we made the move to Western Australia

Other than my parents, going to games is the only thing that I miss about the UK and it does get to me at times knowing that I cant go to the games any more after having a season ticket for 33 years (since being 6 years old).
My kids shared a ticket for around 3-4 years before we made the move too.
I still watch every game via various streaming options, even if it means getting up at 2.30/3.30am to watch before going to work for a 12 hour shift and still get the same buzz/excitement. Its also good to be able to watch the game outside on our big projector screen with a beer in hand not missing a second from having to queue for 20 minutes to get a lukewarm pie and piss weak pint
I managed to get to one game during pre-season last year when we went back to the UK for a few weeks by going with the kids to see the Blades at Chesterfield.
It was a great day, watching the Blades and meeting up with family and friends at the game.
It was certainly a long trip after a 10,000 mile flight, we were staying in Cheshire so had a 2 hour drive each way to get to the game but was well worth it.

Sadly, I dont think I will get to another live game as I have no plans to go back to the UK again.

 

[CaptainMorgans]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Resonates with me having been a Blade in exile for many years. Its very different seeing the players in the flesh to TV.
As you rightly say, you see so much more. Rak-Sakyi looked great on TV, but I wondered what he was up to out of possession.

Likewise, when Man Utd came to Bramall Lane in 2007 I realised for the first time how incredible a player Paul Scholes was. Always in space, spraying it left and right, the fulcrum of everything they did. I've never seen anyone like it (in person) since.

It also presents you with a more objective view of the matchday experience when you visit infrequently.
I also like to sit in the BLUT if I'm intent on being completely sober & concentrating on the game as the view up there is great.
If I'm with friends, it will tend to be the Kop. I don't have a great affinity with the Kop anymore and see it for what it is. A really sub-standard stand which really lets the club down.

 

[Bl4desutd]

G

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Great review of your day out, really enjoyed reading it

 

[Melbourne Blade]

Great write up!
Its posts like this that tug at my heart strings a bit. Its a little over 5 years since we made the move to Western Australia

Other than my parents, going to games is the only thing that I miss about the UK and it does get to me at times knowing that I cant go to the games any more after having a season ticket for 33 years (since being 6 years old).
My kids shared a ticket for around 3-4 years before we made the move too.
I still watch every game via various streaming options, even if it means getting up at 2.30/3.30am to watch before going to work for a 12 hour shift and still get the same buzz/excitement. Its also good to be able to watch the game outside on our big projector screen with a beer in hand not missing a second from having to queue for 20 minutes to get a lukewarm pie and piss weak pint
I managed to get to one game during pre-season last year when we went back to the UK for a few weeks by going with the kids to see the Blades at Chesterfield.
It was a great day, watching the Blades and meeting up with family and friends at the game.
It was certainly a long trip after a 10,000 mile flight, we were staying in Cheshire so had a 2 hour drive each way to get to the game but was well worth it.

Sadly, I dont think I will get to another live game as I have no plans to go back to the UK again.

You an Eagles fan mate?

 

[Blades Glory Owls Down]

You an Eagles fan mate?

I've tried to get involved in all the AFL stuff but just cant get into it.
I've had mates trying to guide me through the rules and everything but then something happens in a game and the "umpires" give a decision one way or another and I ask why and even they cant answer half of the time.
If I had to choose though it would be the Eagles despite how shit they have been since we got to Western Australia.
How about you??

 

[Melbourne Blade]

I've tried to get involved in all the AFL stuff but just cant get into it.
I've had mates trying to guide me through the rules and everything but then something happens in a game and the "umpires" give a decision one way or another and I ask why and even they cant answer half of the time.
If I had to choose though it would be the Eagles despite how shit they have been since we got to Western Australia.
How about you??

Eagles fan bizarrely! Even though I've lived in Melbourne for years I had connections to Perth and they were first team I started watching. Sometimes prefer watching AFL to football tbh it's an amazing game.

 

[Nick Jansky]

Thanks for this. Its certainly novel to get a perspective of the game through a jap's eye.

 

[Brewster Cost £70 million]

 

[FTPE]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

How can you be a Blade from all the way over there!?

....High Green is full of pigs

 

[Grappler]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Glad you attended this particular game, probably the best atmosphere in a long time.


If I ever get back to Japan (well, Tokyo), beers on you........

 

[Paul1963]

I’m a long-term resident of Japan, so only get to about one game a year. Was going to reply to Deadbat’s post, but thought I’d be self-indulgent and start my own. So here’s some random recollections and thoughts from my once-a-year trip to BDTBL.

*took a while, but managed to find the brick I got with mine, my Dad’s and my son’s names on on the hall of fame wall when me Dad passed away. Was nice to see. Gave it a rub for luck.

*considering the space available and that it’s new, thought they’ve done a nice job with the fanzone.

*pre-match music/PA was painfully loud on the BLUT! Suppose it keeps the away fans quiet!

*thought the lineup was arguably our strongest available.

*really like Rak-Sakyi on the ball a lot. He looks like he doesn’t know what he should be doing off the ball, though. Didn’t offer much out of possession, but thought he looks really really good in possession.

*they had a 10-minute spell after we scored where we looked a bit vulnerable. From the BLUT, it looked like we were giving their center backs way too much time on the ball. This allowed their wingbacks to push right up, so they they always had a man over. Fortunately, that man was Laroucci, but it was worrying for a while, and made us susceptible to really simple balls over the top. Not sure how or why it stopped, but it became less of an issue.

*was fantastic to see Arblaster in the flesh. He seemed to play like a Spanish player. He takes the ball on the turn so well. From watching erratic streams often on my phone, I’ve not really appreciated what kind of player he was or what a lovely player he is.

*would like to see the attacking forwards switch positions more. Ex. Hamer and O’Hare could switch for a bit, or Hamer and Rak-Sakyi.

*can’t explain why, but O’Hare reminds me of Jamie Tart from Ted Lasso.

*The atmosphere for what would have been a pretty shitty 1-0 game for a neutral was great fun. Helped significantly by all the little niggles. The Jebbo chants were hilarious, as were his stats (more yellow cards than accurate passes!).

*It’s such a new team, and living so far away, I haven’t felt much attachment with this current team, especially compared to the last time I was at a game (3-0 home win against Blackburn). But found much to like seeing them in the flesh. O’Hare and Hamer are entertainers. Arblaster is classy. Souza and Peck lovable nutjobs. Burrows was giving the away fans a bit of finger shushing, which I’m not always a fan of, but seemed warranted in this kind of game! We’re obviously a work in progress, but pleased that we showed some character.

*Was an absolute pleasure waking down to the Lane seeing all the United shirts and feeling that familiar build in excitement. Very jealous of all you guys that get to do that every week.

*pre-game had lunch and a pint at the Cambridge Street Collective food hall next to the newly opened Leah’s Yard. Think they’ve done a lovely job with both. Some interesting choices at the food hall including Ethiopian and Palestinian! Post-game, walked up to me mate’s near Fulwood, and had some beautiful pub food at the Rising Sun.

*Incredibly, I’ve still not seen United lose in the flesh in the 21st century!

Looking forward to next year’s trip!

UTB

Great post,my son will be in Japan next year for about 7 weeks,can I get in touch for some tips on good stuff to do while he’s there?