think I will be having a trial run soon down on the train from Stalyvegas to Patricroft to suss out likely watering holes

(and then do another trip by Metrolink from town to assess the possibility of Eccles as a pre-match destination !)

Saints have signed up Robinsons to supply the beer to the bars in the new stadium, with a special deal for televised matches bringing more money in, something we could try with a local brewer, ie Holts or even Robinsons for the new stadium, because it is clear from the Saints deal rugby league clubs are not tied into the Tetley deal.

Robinsons would be amazing. We can watch as unassuming away fans buy pints of Old Tom.

Are you mad boy??? I'd rather then put a tap on the bottom of the lav and serve that than either of them, now a dream would be Sam Smiths as it's golden and cheap plus it isn't the biggest seller round these parts so they might fancy it for expansion?

Really? Can't stand the stuff personally I don't think it travels outside of Stockport particularly well. Now Holts would be a dream (alas not for lager drinkers mind) it only has to travel a few miles!

You'll end up with a choice between John Smiths and Carlsberg , as that's what the catering co s like EMC carry



Be about £ 3.50 a pint

Not 100% sure on that, it would be great if there was some sort of rail link to the stadium though. Or a Metrolink station, which I have actually seen mentioned on some plans, going over the new bridge over the canal.

Some form of boat link from Salford Quays, or even from up Irlam way, would be great, and unique to a sports team I think. Could have a fancy one like on the Thames, serving meals etc

Holts at the new stadium would be a dream come true





God I hope not

Is that all?

Unfortunately you are probably going to be right.

The Albert Edward is a Samuel Smiths pub in Eccles.

There are a number of Holts houses in the area, nearest to the stadium will be the Grapes.

Would be great to get a local brewery to supply the ale, my vote is Hydes

The Grapes and the Unicorn are going to be my pre and post match watering holes considering I'm a 2 minute walk from them

Moved on a bit since I last saw it. Must be so big now it's blocking out the light:

Will be good awaiting the Super League XVII fixtures, as everyone will be looking for you and St. Helens away. Looks great. Looking forward to the trip next season.

P.S. I'll be annoyed if I'm away when we play you away next season.

So you don't like Holt's, either? F**king hell, you really do have a screw or three loose, don't you?!

I like Holt's about much as I like you and I think it's vile.

Oooooooh get you with your handbag out.

In other matters relating to the original post, I've heard that they have laid the sand base for the pitch. Anyone confirm this?

When I drove past this morning it did look yellowy I'd say it was sand

looking good guys

Never mind Holt's, saucer of milk for one, please.

Led to believe they are seeding it end of July or around then.

Does anyone know how the new ground will accommodate the main tv cameras? You would expect them to be facing the main stand but this presumably will require a raised platform of some kind as the stand on that side is quite low.

You can tell I’m board with nothing to do, thinking about cameras!!!

i think they are in main stand - so looking from main stand onto the small staidum.....sadly...but i believe its cos they use the 'boxes' as a studio

They dont at Leigh , they would normally put the cameras facing the main stand , the only reson they might not at Barton is if the stand isnt high enough

It has nothing to do with where the studio location is or the height of the stand. It's due to Sky not wanting their cameras facing potential low evening sun that sets in the West. Unfortunately the impressive main stand will not be shown by the main pitch camera on TV.

So the cameras will be facing an empty stand then!! great stuff ,that will look dead impressive on tv!