Two balls and a goal direct from a corner

It was Miss’ 70th match this weekend and another long trip to Devon, this time to Tiverton Town.

It was an easy drive down with no delays and Rob joined us on the way down; and Uncle Mike also joined us on the way home.

We set off at 10:00 and stopped at Sparkford Services for lunch. Parked up at the ground at around 13:30. A decent sized car park in the ground, so we parked closed to the turnstiles.

We entered the ground through a nice wide turnstile, so plenty of room for Miss’ pushchair.

The Ian Moorcroft Stadium has four covered sides, one side seated and three stands terracing, generating a decent atmosphere and protecting you from the elements if required. We were fortunate enough to have a glorious day of weather, the rest of the country wasn’t as lucky!

The locals were lovely, all greeting Miss, holding open doors for the pushchair and asking about our journey down etc…

From a one-year-olds perspective, there is lots of room to roam around, but steps everywhere due to the Terracing. The club do insist on keeping the bottom section of all stands clear - so that is perfect for both wheelchair and pushchair access.

Once again, as with most grounds we have visited to date, no baby changing facilities. So it was a nappy change on the cold floor in the men’s toilet cubicles - we always find a way - but baby changing facilities would be a good addition.

We were asked about our view if the home side were to build a play park within the ground. We said it would be an excellent addition. It certainly would make it easier to keep Miss entertained - but I would say if there is an emphasis being added on youngsters - add the baby changing facilities to go with it.

A really nice bar with good facilities and friendly staff. Love the plastic Korev cups that can be taken outside and re-used 👏 several clubs have started doing this now such as Brockenhurst who we have also visited and Wimborne (we’ll be there in December). Big tick to reduce single use plastic ✔️

City had lots of chances to win the game but found the Tiverton keeper in fine form. Olly Balmer did equalise direct from a corner but the hosts grabbed a late winner.

A nice day out, decent ground with a good atmosphere. For a one-year-old, the ground has some challenges, but there is a clear desire here to make the club inclusive for all. The park would be a novel but good addition.

And perhaps repair the kick ball machine in the burger bar - Miss was desperate to have a play! Lovely people at Tiverton though - we’ll be back.