Arsenal Match From An Executive Box

An unfulfilled goal (pardon the pun) of living in London was to go to a football game. But over the years I realised I will never have an interest in the Premier League.

Who would have thought that when I finally see a game, it would be an Arsenal match and in an executive box! I was my girlfriend's guest when she got free tickets from a client.

It was our first football match and we were heading into one of the most rowdy places in London. 

We expected wild crowds, chanting, and possibly hooliganism. But it was a well ordered affair turning up. Police and security keep football fans in check. 

At the stadium we entered through glass doors and up an escalator and stairs like a long swanky airport lounge. We passed several service staff, dressed in smart outfits greeting us along the way. 

The executive box was impressive. It has it's own kitchen, bathroom, TV and hosting area. We were given drinks on arrival and helped ourselves to a buffet of delicious food. And I'm talking about burgers and lobster tails on the menu!

I felt spoilt by this VIP treatment and I'm not even a football fan. I was just in awe to be in one of the most desirable places to watch the game. (While munching on lobster...)

As the sign below, the blinds in the room were drawn 20 mins before kick off. The real reason unclear but alcohol is not sold in the stadium while the match is on. We took cups of tea outside in seats with us to keep our hands warm. 

I counted at least 73 security guards around the perimeter of the stands. There was hardly an empty seat in the stadium which has capacity for 60,272 people. In the first half we had some sunlight. By the second half it was dark and very cold. Sitting closest to us were the Middlesbrough fans showing relentless support for their team. I don't think any of them was sitting during the game. 

The cheering and chanting thundered throughout the stadium and watching the spectators was a show in itself. 

Arsenal won 2-nil. The stadium cleared out as quickly as it filled after the game. Catering in the executive box continued on for an hour or so. We had a selfie-overload and more wine and cheese. By the end getting home via the tube was a breeze. 

Will I go to another match in a normal spectator seat? Not after this!