Hundreds of Sunderland AFC fans joined together to mark the Stadium of Light’s 20th anniversary in picture form this week, ahead of Saturday’s showpiece game against Celtic.
Originally opening on July 30th, 1997, the now iconic home of the Black Cats is widely recognised as one of the best stadia of the modern era. As the anniversary of its official opening in July 1997 approaches, the club is marking the occasion with its first home friendly game since 2008.
In the build-up to the fixture, which will see thousands of Celtic fans head south to support their team, Sunderland season card holders were invited to the stadium to form the SoL20 commemorative logo in human form. The fans, sporting their Sunderland colours, took up their positions on the hallowed turf for the iconic photo, alongside club legend Kevin Ball, who captained Sunderland in the first-ever game at the Stadium of Light.
Speaking about the commemorative photograph, Kevin said: “It’s great to be able to commemorate this milestone with our supporters, who are the lifeblood of club. It doesn’t seem like 20 years if I’m being honest, I can remember the opening game like it was yesterday and the pride I felt in leading the team out in such an amazing stadium”.
Sunderland welcome Celtic in the Dafabet Cup in a traditional 3pm kick off on Saturday afternoon and tickets are still available for the game. Young supporters aged under 16 can secure their seat for just £5 and under 22s for only £7. Adult tickets are priced at £15 and over 65s at £12.
A special family ticket, which includes one adult and one child under 16, is also available in the north west corner of the stadium for £18.
HOW TO BUY TICKETS
Online: www.safc.com (24-hour service)
Telephone: 0371 911 1973 (24-hour service)
In-person: Stadium of Light ticket office, opening hours as listed -
Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pmSaturday matchday 10am – kick off (3pm)
Sunday, CLOSED