Full matchday guide to Stamford Bridge

On By Littum

On Thursday 19 December, Shamrock Rovers travel to London to face Chelsea in the Europa Conference League at Stamford Bridge.

The game is important for both clubs, with the hosts needing a point to qualify for the Round of 16 as league stage winners and the visitors potentially needing a win to cement their place in the top eight.

It will be the first time the two clubs have ever met before in a competitive game, making the trip to London extra special for the traveling Shamrock Rovers fans.

Shamrock Rovers fans in London
Shamrock Rovers fans in Vienna earlier this season – Photo by Imago

How many Shamrock Rovers fans are going to Chelsea?

Shamrock Rovers were allocated just under 3,000 tickets for the game against Chelsea and to their credit this allocation sold out very quickly. Considering their home ground, Tallaght Stadium only has a capacity of 10,500, this is an impressive turnout for the Shamrock Rovers supporters.

Away tickets for Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers sold out in less than two days, so many supporters unfortunately missed out. As a result, local police expect many fans to make the short trip across Ireland without tickets to soak up the atmosphere on what is a huge night for the visitors.

However, this is not their first trip to one of London’s many football grounds. They traveled in large numbers back in 2011 when their team took on Tottenham in the Europa League.

Where will Shamrock Rovers fans sit at Stamford Bridge?

Shamrock Rovers fans have been allocated the right side of the Shed End on Thursday night with the away section spanning two levels. The Shamrock Rovers fans will enter via Blocks SL2, SL3, SU2 AND SU4.

The view from the away side at Stamford Bridge is generally excellent, regardless of which row you are in, but the bottom half of the top row is generally considered to be the ‘prime’ place in terms of getting a good view of the game.

Although the away side is fully in place, the Shamrock Rovers end is not expected to spend much time sitting down on the night.

Full fans’ matchday guide for Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers

Where to eat and drink for Shamrock Rovers fans in London

London is a big city with plenty of food and drink options all over the city. However, for those looking to stay close to the stadium for pre-match drinks, the following options are your best bet:

  • Courtfield Tavern – 187 Earls Ct Rd, London SW5 9AN
  • The goose – 248 North End Rd, London SW6 1NL
  • The sun variety – 209 Earls Ct Rd, London SW5 9AN

If you go further afield, the London Underground can always take you back to the surrounding area of ​​the stadium very quickly. More on that below.

How to get to Stamford Bridge: Guide for Shamrock Rovers fans in London

There are a number of ways to get to Stamford Bridge when in London, but the London Underground and Overground are your best options.

The nearest tube station to the stadium is Fulham Broadway, which is on the District Line. From here, the stadium will be practically right in front of you as you exit the station.

Alternatively, Earls Court Station on the District and Piccadilly lines is around 20 minutes’ walk from the stadium and is a better option if you want to find a pub close to the stadium before kick-off.

For fans using the London Overground, the nearest station is West Brompton. This station is around 15 minutes’ walk from the stadium and is served by trains from Clapham Junction.