TEN years ago today (July 16), Burton Albion played the first ever game at the Pirelli Stadium.
It was a relatively low-key affair with some work still being dome in parts of the ground only a few short weeks after the last game at Eton Park.
Chester City were the visitors for a pre-season friendly against Nigel Clough’s Conference side.
A crowd of 1,300 turned out to get an early look at the new stadium and were excited to see their new home even though Albion lost 1-0 to Keith Curle’s team.
The only goal was scored in the second half by triallist Avun Jephcott after a Michael Branch cross.
Nigel Clough explained at the time why Chester got the honour of being Albion’s first Pirelli Stadium opponents.
Clough said: "Chester asked if we could give them a game on that date and we thought it will be useful to have an extra dummy run for the new ground."
Albion already had pre-season home games arranged against Hull City, Nottingham Forest (Bass Vase), Manchester City and Nuneaton.
The Pirelli Stadium was a massive £7.2 million investment for a small, still non-league outfit, but since the 7,000 capacity ground was built in 2005 it has been at the heart of the club’s success.
The Brewers took the keys to the new stadium on July 1, 2005, and since then it has become a thriving centre that hosts conferences, weddings, business meetings, education activities and a host of other activities.
It also generates income on match days with sponsors, businesses and organisations enjoying corporate hospitality in exclusive boxes or in the plush Albion Suite. A pre-match meal created by the in-house catering team is followed by reserved seats in the stand and a chance to watch the Brewers in action.Â
Call Burton Albion on 01283 565938 or go the hospitality section to find out more.