Next weekend marks another exciting away day as Stoke City make the journey down to the south coast to take on Southampton. I’ve already secured my ticket and I’m looking forward to the relatively quick trip from Portsmouth to St Mary’s Stadium – a journey that feels more like a local outing than a long away-day trek.
Stoke have made a solid start to the season and remain unbeaten so far. That momentum adds a little extra buzz heading into this fixture. Southampton will certainly provide a strong test, but there’s a sense of belief and optimism that Stoke can extend their run and come away with a positive result.
For me, part of the joy of these matches is the build-up – the anticipation of joining fellow fans, the chatter on the train or in the pubs beforehand, and then that roar when the players walk out onto the pitch. It’s not just about the football, but also about the community and shared experience of following Stoke City wherever they go.
It promises to be a great day out, and hopefully, one that sees the unbeaten streak continue. Southampton away – bring it on!
I have added a section – Lifts from – then my name, if you click on my name you’ll get some details.
If you would like to offer lifts to other members, please contact me and I will add your details to the website too. No telephone numbers, addresses of any kind will be added to the website for security purposes – use Whats App.
If you have come across the website and are not a member of this club (and a Stoke City Supporter) details will be added to the website very soon or leave a comment in the comments section below.
Cost for joining me will be chipping in for fuel and the M6 Toll that is all 🙂
My next trip from Hampshire to Stoke will be the Birmingham City match
Some journeys are straightforward. This was not one of them.
Leaving Fareham, Hampshire full of matchday excitement, I quickly discovered the road to Stoke-on-Trent was going to test my patience as much as my football loyalty. Accidents, lane closures, diversions — you name it, I hit it. The drive felt like a tactical defensive masterclass from the M6 itself, determined to keep me from the bet365 Stadium.
By the time I finally arrived, though, the atmosphere made the slog worthwhile. Both sets of supporters — Stoke City and Derby County — were in full voice. My Apple Watch even decided to get involved, pinging me a noise warning mid-match. That’s how loud it was.
First day of the new season
The game itself had all the drama you could ask for. Derby struck first through Morris, quietening the home fans for all of… about 10 minutes. Stoke responded in style — a stunning equalizer from Baker, followed by a towering header from Mubama, and a cracking strike from Thomas, meaning The Potters ran out worthy 3-1 winners.
And just like that, the long journey there was forgotten. The drive home? Smooth as you like — 3.5 hours door-to-door. Football, good company, and three points for Stoke… the perfect end to what started as a nightmare trip.