WELCOME to a weekly feature in conjunction with the Oxford United fan groups OxVox and Oxford United Supporters’ Panel (OUSP), as we hear from them throughout the summer on all manner of U’s matters.
We’ll be getting views from the two groups on a range of subjects, including topics on and off the pitch.
Those may include the summer transfer window, hopes and ambitions for the 2023/24 season, favourite moments following United, and the ongoing stadium project.
This week, we caught up with OUSP secretary Janine Bailey to get useful hints and tips for fans going to their first game at Grenoble Road this season.
Oxford United’s first home league match of the season is this afternoon. For some of you, this may also be your first match, so OUSP has shared below some of our top tips for first-time supporters.
First-time buyers will need to set up a ticket account. The easiest way to do this is by visiting or calling the ticket office (01865 337533).
The staff are really helpful and will give advice on the most suitable place to sit. If you are eligible for a discount (student, blue light etc) then take your ID. Prices increase on matchdays so book your seat in advance for best value.
Our family area is in the North Stand. When choosing your seat, bear in mind that the front few rows of this stand are exposed to the elements – in summer it can get very hot: sun cream and a baseball-type cap will be useful.
Be there in time to see our players warm up near the family stand 45 minutes before kick-off, and one of our mascots, Olly or Olivia, will be around to welcome you.
“For me, it’s just speculation and noise.”
— Oxford Mail OUFC (@OxfordMailOUFC) August 11, 2023
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You can get a programme on your way in (£4, cash only). Food and drinks are sold inside the concourse (card payment) but queues can be lengthy, especially at half-time, so you might want to take your own snacks and drinks, in plastic bottles or cartons.
If you are coming by car, arrive in plenty of time to find parking. The East car park is closest to this stand (follow signs to Y3).
Players are usually very happy to stop for a brief chat, photo or autograph when they arrive at the south-east corner of the stadium. You’ll need to be there around 1pm to catch them.
Make sure you dress for the occasion. Whereas the lower North Stand can be positively balmy, the South Stand is probably the coldest place in Oxfordshire.
Take more layers than you think you will need. Yellow is, of course, the colour of choice. The club shop sells scarves and hats, as well as replica kit and other souvenirs, and is open until from 11am until kick-off.
It is tucked away opposite the entrance to the overflow car park behind the ODEON.
It’s also worth visiting Sue and Michael’s stall just inside the glazed section of the South Stand near the ticket office. It’s a lively meeting point for regulars, who come to buy their programme and tickets for the half-time draw. You can also find an extensive back catalogue of programmes.
For fast food at the ground, we think the best burgers are those freshly cooked from the van in the West car park. In the concourses the pies are a good choice.
If you have any questions or concerns at the match, then speak to the nearest steward. We hope you enjoy your first visit and that you see a good win for United.
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