Scots football fan stunned to have away end to himself after police ban locals

Scots Football Fan Enjoyed Rare Experience of Being the Sole Supporter in the Stadium

A Scottish football fan, Steven Faughnan from Edinburgh, had a unique and remarkable experience as the only fan in the away end of a stadium, all thanks to police restrictions banning locals with certain postcodes. Steven, a supporter of Italian team Atalanta, witnessed their 3-0 victory against Napoli while sitting alone in the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Due to safety concerns, individuals with Lombardy postcodes were prohibited from purchasing tickets for the match, enabling Steven, with his Edinburgh address, to secure his spot in the away section.

Despite being aware of the unusual circumstances beforehand, Steven embraced the opportunity and tried to keep the away side’s spirit alive amidst the vacant seats. He expressed his gratitude for being able to attend the game and lamented that loyal fans from Bergamo were unable to witness the live action. Steven, along with his partner Lauren, has developed a strong bond with Atalanta after first encountering their fans at a Hibernian game in 2016, leading to numerous visits to Bergamo for matches and cultivating friendships with local supporters.

Reflecting on his solo experience at the stadium, Steven highlighted the significance of the club’s connection with its city and fans beyond just winning trophies. Following the match in Napoli, Steven travelled to Germany for an away game in Stuttgart and plans to return to Bergamo soon for another match. His devotion to Atalanta encapsulates the deep-rooted passion and community spirit that football can foster.

In a time where the camaraderie and excitement of live sports events have been limited by various restrictions, Steven’s story serves as a testament to the enduring power of sports fandom and the unique experiences it can offer even in solitary settings.

Insights:
Steven’s dedication to supporting Atalanta showcases the profound impact football can have on fostering connections and creating meaningful experiences. His unwavering passion highlights the resilience of sports fandom in navigating challenges and restrictions to continue engaging with the game. Despite being alone in the away end, Steven’s presence symbolises the enduring spirit of fans supporting their teams, transcending geographical boundaries and limitations to uphold their love for the sport.