Combined Counties League
Colliers Wood is an area in South London, England, in the London Borough of Merton. Colliers Wood takes its name from a wood that stood to the east of Colliers Wood Road, approximately where Warren, Marlborough and Birdhurst Roads are now. This wood remained at least until the 1870s.
Colliers Wood United FC play at the Wibbandune Sports Ground which is adjacent to the A3 between Kingston and Wimbledon. According to records, the "Woods" were founded in 1874. The easiest way to reach this venue by public transport is via the 265 bus route (Putney Bridge Station to Tolworth). Apart from the obvious District Line interchange, there is a bus stop adjacent to Barnes (South West Trains) Station. I am particularly grateful to Glaswegian John Broodle for his local knowledge and advice regarding this bus service.
I was not sure what to expect of the ground. I had heard that it was 'basic' with little by way of spectator facilities. Therefore it was a pleasant surprise to find a 102 seat covered stand along one side of the ground. On the opposite side is the clubhouse and there is also some covered 'veranda' type accommodation at the front with a few seats and tables.
For an end of season encounter, this match wasn't bad entertainment. Colliers Wood took the points courtesy of a header from a corner.
The ground is enclosed by trees on 3 sides and I would suggest that the enormous conifers behind one goal are essential in preventing the loss of footballs to the fast moving A3 traffic. Behind the trees at the other end is Beverley Brook (runs from through Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common before entering the Thames at Putney- Ed)
After the match, which ended at 21:34, it was a quick trot over the footbridge to the northbound bus stop in time to catch the 21:39 (very convenient) bus to Putney Bridge (on the station at 22:00).
Admission: £5.00 (includes match programme)
Programme: Additional copies for cover price £1.00 (obtained for you Andy, Stan and Glyn, the barman in Phil Butler's local, the Prince Albert in Ely)
Mug of Tea: 60p
Cheese & Ham French Bread: £1.20
