Back to the '70's

Whenever I think of Luton and Kenilworth Road, my mind goes back to the bad old days in the 1970's. I don't have the most pleasant memories there. I was one of only a few that stayed behind to see Mike Flanagan put away a penalty at the far end to pull us back to 7-1. I managed to get in a couple of time during David Evans reign as Chairman when Luton introduced a total ban on away supporters. I remember being one of loads of Charlton supporters in a pub getting little plastic tickets from a supporter based in Luton. No they weren't happy days. Incidentally the 7-1 defeat was not the only seven goal defeat I've seen. More of that when we play Burnley and if we ever play Brighton.

To get into our end at Luton these days, you have to enter turnstiles in between people's houses. You end up on a terrace with plastic seats and to your left is the most bizzare 'stand' in the league. A row of connecting chalets masquerade as executive boxes. Nothing else - just chalets. I could be wrong and it has all changed, but judging from the photo on the football ground guide it hasn't. I'll be adding my own photos after the game so we'll be able to compare.

It's an away midweek game, which is always a challenge. The plan is top get away from work early, back home to Essex, and go with the 'Old Man' by car. I reckon we'll set off by about 5.00pm giving us two and a half hours to get there. The M25 is always a lottery, and the bottom of the M1 has interminable roadworks up to Luton. Apparently they are widening the motorway so they can squeeze more cars onto the road before they introduce tolls there. If anyone knows a better way to get there by car do let me know.

The usual Essex Branch bus isn't going on Tuesday. Fiddler has an airport run that night - Gatwick not Luton. Kim should be back from holiday and should be going. I hope so as she asked me to get her a ticket. Kim's not been to Luton before. She's in for a treat!

As for the game, I reckon we'll be playing a load of reserves. We should still be too strong for Luton though and expect us to win 3-1 after extra time.