Cracovia's stadium has changed a bit!
Opened in 2009, the 15,000 plus capacity Cracovia Stadium in Krakow, Poland, is a far cry from the old ground visited by Wilkietours in September 2004.
The stadium staged U21 European Championship games in 2017 and, although it has a smaller capacity than nearby Wisla's ground, the club has kept pace with their city rivals modernisation programme.
It was almost 16 years ago we saw Cracovia and Gornik Zabrze battle out a no score draw in front of a capacity crowd of around 7,000. Memories from that night include violin virtuoso Nigel Kennedy playing on the pitch prior to kick-off (as we rushed around the ground to find our turnstile), the pyrotechnics from the home fans, looking down on the cage of visiting supporters at one end of the ground and the half-time feast of a large kielbasa, mustard & roll (of course!).
The stadium staged U21 European Championship games in 2017 and, although it has a smaller capacity than nearby Wisla's ground, the club has kept pace with their city rivals modernisation programme.
It was almost 16 years ago we saw Cracovia and Gornik Zabrze battle out a no score draw in front of a capacity crowd of around 7,000. Memories from that night include violin virtuoso Nigel Kennedy playing on the pitch prior to kick-off (as we rushed around the ground to find our turnstile), the pyrotechnics from the home fans, looking down on the cage of visiting supporters at one end of the ground and the half-time feast of a large kielbasa, mustard & roll (of course!).
Part 2 - a random selection of Wilkietours matchday programmes . . .
A couple of Wilkietours matchday experiences worth highlighting from this sample:-
The fantastic atmosphere at the 4-4 thriller at San Mames back in 2005, on an evening when we had driven back from Santander directly the afternoon game (Racing 1 - Real Sociedad 3) had finished, only to find available parking some distance from the stadium. We legged it back to the ground where the visitors, Athlitic Bilbao, were already two goals up!
At Mantova we struck up a conversation with the locals, which has happened on many an occassion when we visit lower league fixtures. Where are you from? Southampton we say; ah, Guly was the response. As an 18 year old, Brazilian Guly do Prado had played for Mantova eventually ending up with The Saints and playing in the Premier League.
Others that would spend time with The Saints were appearing in the Cesena side when we watched their home game with Genoa, namely Graziano Pele and Papa Waigo.
The Cracovia game, although finishing goal-less against Gornik Zabrze, was a pyrotechnics display par excellence by the home fans, in what was then the old stadium with a racing track around the pitch and a single wooden covered grandstand.
Good memories.
The fantastic atmosphere at the 4-4 thriller at San Mames back in 2005, on an evening when we had driven back from Santander directly the afternoon game (Racing 1 - Real Sociedad 3) had finished, only to find available parking some distance from the stadium. We legged it back to the ground where the visitors, Athlitic Bilbao, were already two goals up!
At Mantova we struck up a conversation with the locals, which has happened on many an occassion when we visit lower league fixtures. Where are you from? Southampton we say; ah, Guly was the response. As an 18 year old, Brazilian Guly do Prado had played for Mantova eventually ending up with The Saints and playing in the Premier League.
Others that would spend time with The Saints were appearing in the Cesena side when we watched their home game with Genoa, namely Graziano Pele and Papa Waigo.
The Cracovia game, although finishing goal-less against Gornik Zabrze, was a pyrotechnics display par excellence by the home fans, in what was then the old stadium with a racing track around the pitch and a single wooden covered grandstand.
Good memories.
Wilkietours Spanish trip features . . . . . .
Another Wilkietours trip is featured in the excellent FOOTBALL WEEKENDS magazine, which resumed publication after a short break due to distribution channels being closed.
Our weekend in Seville is given a 6-page spread in the latest issue (#55, June), with the main event of our trip being a REAL BETIS v ATHLETIC BILBAO clash.
This glossy magazine, priced at £4.99, is available to order from www.footballweekends.co.uk and delivery is free.
Our weekend in Seville is given a 6-page spread in the latest issue (#55, June), with the main event of our trip being a REAL BETIS v ATHLETIC BILBAO clash.
This glossy magazine, priced at £4.99, is available to order from www.footballweekends.co.uk and delivery is free.
A cheeky collection of programmes (part one) . . . .
A small sample of the multitude of match day programmes from Wilkietours European trips. A couple of iconic shots on the two Milano club programmes - the modest, unassuming Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Andriy Shevchenko.
On many occasions we have found that clubs do not produce programmes, team-sheets may be available, often there are free newspaper size publications which are generally used by the locals for sitting on in the uncovered stands. However, when there are programmes, free or otherwise (usually no more than a Euro or two), Wilkietours will track them down. The AC Milan programme was available in the top price seats only, we secured this copy from one of the wandering refreshment sellers, hoping to make an extra couple of Euros, in the stadium.
On many occasions we have found that clubs do not produce programmes, team-sheets may be available, often there are free newspaper size publications which are generally used by the locals for sitting on in the uncovered stands. However, when there are programmes, free or otherwise (usually no more than a Euro or two), Wilkietours will track them down. The AC Milan programme was available in the top price seats only, we secured this copy from one of the wandering refreshment sellers, hoping to make an extra couple of Euros, in the stadium.
Who has got this little gem?
I know a couple of the Wilkietours group have it. Although a little dated, it was published in 1990, its an excellent reference book on the history of European stadia. Wilkietours European travels have been put on hold for obvious reasons. Trip number 87 and match 174 will have to wait until football resumes, as we knew it, and travel restrictions are lifted across Europe.
One of our recent trips, to Sevilla in December 2019, will be featured in the next edition of FOOTBALL WEEKENDS. Publication of this excellent magazine resumes at the end of May after a break due to unavailability of sales outlets last month.
One of our recent trips, to Sevilla in December 2019, will be featured in the next edition of FOOTBALL WEEKENDS. Publication of this excellent magazine resumes at the end of May after a break due to unavailability of sales outlets last month.
Athletic Bilbao's San Mames
This superb aerial photo brings back memories of a couple of Wilkietours trips to the Bilbao in northern Spain.
Firstly, our visit to the old San Mames in February 2005, when we witnessed an entertaining La Liga game in a fantastic atmosphere, BILBAO 4 REAL BETIS 4! It was our second game of the day, having been to watch Racing Santander lose at home to Real Sociedad.
We returned to the Basque city in September 2016 to watch them beat Sevilla 2-1 in the new San Mames.
The old ground was definitely one of our favourites, the new ground is impressive but the atmosphere generated was not quite as intense as the old ground (how many fans do you hear say that when their club has moved from a 'compact' ground to a new, shiney stadium?).
Firstly, our visit to the old San Mames in February 2005, when we witnessed an entertaining La Liga game in a fantastic atmosphere, BILBAO 4 REAL BETIS 4! It was our second game of the day, having been to watch Racing Santander lose at home to Real Sociedad.
We returned to the Basque city in September 2016 to watch them beat Sevilla 2-1 in the new San Mames.
The old ground was definitely one of our favourites, the new ground is impressive but the atmosphere generated was not quite as intense as the old ground (how many fans do you hear say that when their club has moved from a 'compact' ground to a new, shiney stadium?).
Wilkietours feature again!
Yes, that's right Wilkietours trip to Liepzig has a 6-page feature in the latest edition of this brilliant monthly publication. Visit www.footballweekends.co.uk to order your copy, get a subscription or order back copies.
We're back from the Costa Blanca.
Great trip for some winter sun, but the fayre served up on the pitch was a tad disappointing. A full report will be posted shortly under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Fixture schedules play havoc with our plans!
In order to negotiate fixture clashes, avoid two trips to Elche, and get a third game in we have abandoned our plan to take in the Elche game on Sunday afternoon. We will be attending the Hercules (Alicante) game instead.
This will enable us to take in a second game (Elche IIicitano, Elche's 2nd team) on the Saturday early evening and a third game on Sunday morning (Intercity in Sant Joan d'Alicant).
Hercules CF play in Segunda B (group 3), on our visit they are hosting FC Andorra at their 29,500 capacity Estadio Jose Rico Perez.
Intercity CF are playing Hercules 2nd team, Hercules II, in a Tercera (group 6) fixture at their 2,000 capacity Poliesportiu Municipal de Sant Joan d'Alicant.
Elche II's opponents are Villareal III (C), also in Tercera (group 6), in the 3,000 capacity Ciutat Esportiva Juan Angel Romero, which is located near to Elche's main stadium.
This will enable us to take in a second game (Elche IIicitano, Elche's 2nd team) on the Saturday early evening and a third game on Sunday morning (Intercity in Sant Joan d'Alicant).
Hercules CF play in Segunda B (group 3), on our visit they are hosting FC Andorra at their 29,500 capacity Estadio Jose Rico Perez.
Intercity CF are playing Hercules 2nd team, Hercules II, in a Tercera (group 6) fixture at their 2,000 capacity Poliesportiu Municipal de Sant Joan d'Alicant.
Elche II's opponents are Villareal III (C), also in Tercera (group 6), in the 3,000 capacity Ciutat Esportiva Juan Angel Romero, which is located near to Elche's main stadium.
Costa Blanca here we come!
Flights and accommodation booked, so four Wilkietours regulars are now waiting with baited breath for the Segunda / Segunda B schedules to be confirmed, before we pack our buckets & spades.
The first game on our itinerary to be confirmed is Elche's Segunda fixture against Numancia at the 36,000 capacity Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, which will take place on Sunday 1st March. The green-striped ones are currently in the last play-off position, with their opponents in 8th place. Their stadium hosts national team games, both friendlies and competitive matches, the last being the European Nations rout of Croatia (6-0) in September 2018. The pitch is reportedly the largest playing surface in Europe (really?).
The first game on our itinerary to be confirmed is Elche's Segunda fixture against Numancia at the 36,000 capacity Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, which will take place on Sunday 1st March. The green-striped ones are currently in the last play-off position, with their opponents in 8th place. Their stadium hosts national team games, both friendlies and competitive matches, the last being the European Nations rout of Croatia (6-0) in September 2018. The pitch is reportedly the largest playing surface in Europe (really?).
A 2-3 defeat at home to a deadly Wolves was compensated by victory against Palace away. Superb strikes from Redmond and Armstrong proved the difference. Haha poking Ward-Prowse in the eye sums up Palace.
In Italy, Frosinone had a goal less draw at Pisa and a 2-2 home to Pordenone. Hence a drop to 8th. Still not too shabby.. Later Al.
In Italy, Frosinone had a goal less draw at Pisa and a 2-2 home to Pordenone. Hence a drop to 8th. Still not too shabby.. Later Al.
Saints news. Whatever happens from here on in its incredible what Ralph Hasenhuttl and he team have done since there awful home defeat by Leicester in October 2019. Wins vs Norwich, Watford, Villa,Chelsea, Spurs and revenge at Leicester with 2-1 away victory has been nothing short of miraculous. Confidence and a pleasing way of playing has brought back hope for the future. Big Al
As for my Home team in Italy, well Frosinone have been on a super run and got up to 4th spot and had best 5 game record for a few weeks. Defeats against top 3 opposition have seen them falter but a few draws have wrecked the ship. All from 3rd bottom after first month of so o the season. Hoping I can catch a few games in April when I be heading there for a few months.
As for my Home team in Italy, well Frosinone have been on a super run and got up to 4th spot and had best 5 game record for a few weeks. Defeats against top 3 opposition have seen them falter but a few draws have wrecked the ship. All from 3rd bottom after first month of so o the season. Hoping I can catch a few games in April when I be heading there for a few months.
Visits to eastern Germany & southern Spain ticked off
Wilkietours saw three games in Liepzig in November; the infamous RB, the historic Lokomotive and little known Zwickau. We then followed this up with some winter warmth in Seville earlier this month; where we watched games at Real Betis and Seville B.
Reports on both trips to follow shortly under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Reports on both trips to follow shortly under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Wilkietours featured again . . . .
Football Weekends issues 45, 47 & 49 feature Wilkietours trips to Naples, Madrid and The Veneto (Italy) respectively.
Well, after dominating the first half Frosinone went in 1-0 down! But the second half saw a revitalised Frosi come back to win with a late goal. Frosinone 2-1 Ascoli. Phew. Pics when back in UK peeps. 9pm kO awful!!!!
Saints earn a v creditable draw with Utd and head up into mid-table.Excellent. More later, off to lake at Posta Fibreno for capucho and light lunch. more work on house then Footy tonight !! AND have found missing SD card of Frosinone game December 2017. Huzzah !!!
Heloo, footy fans. Welcome to the new Season, 2019/20 phew, already. Saints start with 2 defeats but triumph 2-0 away at Brighton. Our roving reporter Tony was there. Report soon. I have been "sidelined" due to musical differences peeps but back joint editing this fine enterprise.
I, Big Al, am currently in Italy rebuilding/redecorating our house here in the wilds of Frosinone district and speaking of that fine City have secured my ticket for Sunday nights game vs Ascoli. Report on that on my return. After 1 game Frosi lie bottom of Serie B on GD...Ouch. New boys Brescia and Lecce faring a bit better. Brescia are top 6 with a win ( my late granddad's home team) and Lecce mid table after a draw ( Our family trip to Lecce confirmed our desire to make the jump to Italy back in the day ). Forza Italia....... And Southampton.......erm, and Beautiful beach-side Devon!!! (Took a day to sort access myself Tony, details to you soon mate) . Sent out 3 Big parcels Baz but need to send 53!!!!!! Haha . Ciao tutti.....Al
Wilkietours features in Football Weekends, again!
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Our report of Wilkietours trip to Vienna was featured in the April issue (#43) of the excellent monthly publication, Football Weekends.
Watch out for the latest issue (June, #45), which features Wilkietours visit to Naples and Caserta in December. Football Weekends has now featured Wilkietours trips to Spain (Murcia), Poland (Gdansk/Gydnia), Italy, Austria and Germany (Monchengladbach/ Bonn). Visit: www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and back issues. |
WW1 Battlefields revisited . . .
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Wilkietours made a return visit to north-east France and Belgium for an itinerary that included Zonnebeke, Langemark, Mons, Ypres and Mouscron in Belgium, and the French town of Arras.
We took in a couple of games too: Royal Excel Mouscron were playing on the Friday evening in a Jupiler league play-off game, and Ligue 1 runners-up, Lille were also playing their last home game on the Saturday evening.
See report and snaps under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
We took in a couple of games too: Royal Excel Mouscron were playing on the Friday evening in a Jupiler league play-off game, and Ligue 1 runners-up, Lille were also playing their last home game on the Saturday evening.
See report and snaps under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
We're back from The Veneto . . . . .
Yes, another successful Wilkietour has been concluded after visiting Padova, Cittadella, Vicenza and Venice. Alan, Patrick, Dave, Phil, Nigel, Colin and Tony enjoyed games at Cittadella (Serie B) and Vicenza (Serie C) in glorious sunshine.
Report and snaps on 'Al & Tony's Blog' tab.
Report and snaps on 'Al & Tony's Blog' tab.
The Cucumbers & a ground called Wanda
Wilkietours are back from a double header in Madrid.
A midday kick-off at Leganes was followed by a 4:15 start at the Wanda Metropolitano. Leganes are managed by ex-Saints boss Mauricio Pelligrino and have Saints record signing Guido Carillo on loan. Atletico had just beaten Juventus in the Champions League.
Five guys headed to the Spain anticipating some decent football.
Full report on 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
A midday kick-off at Leganes was followed by a 4:15 start at the Wanda Metropolitano. Leganes are managed by ex-Saints boss Mauricio Pelligrino and have Saints record signing Guido Carillo on loan. Atletico had just beaten Juventus in the Champions League.
Five guys headed to the Spain anticipating some decent football.
Full report on 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Madrid here we come (again!)
Our first visit to the Wanda Metropolitano, and our fourth visit to Spain's capital.
Tickets for Atletico Madrid versus Villareal were secured online (print at home); and we are looking at Leganes v Valencia as a second game.
Tickets for Atletico Madrid versus Villareal were secured online (print at home); and we are looking at Leganes v Valencia as a second game.
We're back from Bella Italia!
Wilkie, Baz and Tony got to see Napoli at the San Paolo on our third Wilkie Tour to Naples.
(Read all about it on 'Al & Tony's Blog' ).
(Read all about it on 'Al & Tony's Blog' ).
Text Update from Tony B in Italy says Naples beat MY Frosinone 4-0 and Casertas lost to visitors Monopoli 1-0. (Not even going to go there haha.)
Saints lose again with new manager as do Eastleigh. Not a good weekend. Hope yours were better peeps. Al
Naples Trip Itinerary
At the pre Naples trip curry evening, Wilkie outlined the itinerary for the imminent tour to the Compania region of Southern Italy.
The main event is a trip to the 60,000 capacity San Paolo stadium to watch last season's Serie A runners-up, as they chase runaway leaders Juventus again this season.
This is most likely to be supplemented with a Serie C fixture at Casertana, as well as the usual extensive cultural activity with visits to Salerno and the ruins of Paestum, as well as exploring Roman tunnels in Naples itself.
The main event is a trip to the 60,000 capacity San Paolo stadium to watch last season's Serie A runners-up, as they chase runaway leaders Juventus again this season.
This is most likely to be supplemented with a Serie C fixture at Casertana, as well as the usual extensive cultural activity with visits to Salerno and the ruins of Paestum, as well as exploring Roman tunnels in Naples itself.
Update from Big Al - 3rd December
Saints sack Hughes after winless streak continues.
Pre Naples Curry tonight.
Joint ed Alan moves to Devon. Good riddance says Wilkie ! ! ! !
More on that in Blog later ! ! ! ! !
Austrian Avalanche
Wilkie Tours waltzed into Vienna and witnessed an avalanche of goals, 16 in 3 games in fact.
See fuller report under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Detailed plans are now in hand for our next trip in December - to Naples. We hope it will be third time lucky to see Napoli play, after our previous attempts were foiled.
See fuller report under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Detailed plans are now in hand for our next trip in December - to Naples. We hope it will be third time lucky to see Napoli play, after our previous attempts were foiled.
As we awake from Wilkie Tours hibernation . . .
A quick look at what's been happening around the European Leagues.
Serie A and Ligue 1 apart, things aren't going to plan in two of the other major European Leagues. In La Liga and the Bundesliga its business as usual with The Old Lady (Juve) and PSG, managed by ex-Dortmund boss Thomas Tuchel, again dominating the early running.
Incredibly, n Spain Barca have lost away to struggling Leganes, coached by ex-Saints boss Mauricio Pelligrino, and have dropped 9 points in their first 8 games; Real Madrid have fared badly too, with a point less than Barca, having lost at league leaders Sevilla and at surprise package, Alaves.
In Germany, Borussia Dortmund have had a resurgence while Nico Kovac's Bayern Munich have lost their last two games, including an embarrassing 0-3 home defeat by Monchengladbach, and now lag 4 points behind the leaders.
Both Juventus and PSG have 100% records, with CR7 scoring 4 of Juve's 18 goals, leaving Carlo Ancellotti's Napoli trailing in their wake by 6 points. Kylian Mbappe netted 4 times in the reigning French champions 5-0 thrashing of Lyon, PSG have now scored 32 goals in their opening 9 league games.
Keeping an eye on the Bundesliga in Austria ahead of Wilkie Tours next adventure, RB Salzburg are runaway league leaders after 10 straight victories. Wilkie Tours will take in home games of top flight sides, Austria Wien and Admira Wacker, in a triple header, with plans to also include a lower league game. Inconsistent Austria beat arch rivals Rapid Vienna away then lost at home to LASK from Linz. Admira are joint bottom of the 12 team league.
Before we head off to Vienna there is the small matter of a South Coast derby, with struggling Saints taking on in form, free scoring Boscombe at Dean Court. The result of this crucial Premier League fixture divides the Wilkie Tours camp, with Saints supporters in the majority over the lone Boscombe season ticket holder.
Serie A and Ligue 1 apart, things aren't going to plan in two of the other major European Leagues. In La Liga and the Bundesliga its business as usual with The Old Lady (Juve) and PSG, managed by ex-Dortmund boss Thomas Tuchel, again dominating the early running.
Incredibly, n Spain Barca have lost away to struggling Leganes, coached by ex-Saints boss Mauricio Pelligrino, and have dropped 9 points in their first 8 games; Real Madrid have fared badly too, with a point less than Barca, having lost at league leaders Sevilla and at surprise package, Alaves.
In Germany, Borussia Dortmund have had a resurgence while Nico Kovac's Bayern Munich have lost their last two games, including an embarrassing 0-3 home defeat by Monchengladbach, and now lag 4 points behind the leaders.
Both Juventus and PSG have 100% records, with CR7 scoring 4 of Juve's 18 goals, leaving Carlo Ancellotti's Napoli trailing in their wake by 6 points. Kylian Mbappe netted 4 times in the reigning French champions 5-0 thrashing of Lyon, PSG have now scored 32 goals in their opening 9 league games.
Keeping an eye on the Bundesliga in Austria ahead of Wilkie Tours next adventure, RB Salzburg are runaway league leaders after 10 straight victories. Wilkie Tours will take in home games of top flight sides, Austria Wien and Admira Wacker, in a triple header, with plans to also include a lower league game. Inconsistent Austria beat arch rivals Rapid Vienna away then lost at home to LASK from Linz. Admira are joint bottom of the 12 team league.
Before we head off to Vienna there is the small matter of a South Coast derby, with struggling Saints taking on in form, free scoring Boscombe at Dean Court. The result of this crucial Premier League fixture divides the Wilkie Tours camp, with Saints supporters in the majority over the lone Boscombe season ticket holder.
First trip of the Autumn itinerary confirmed ......
Yes, after an extended Summer break, Wilkie Tours are off to Vienna for our next thrill packed excursion into Europe. This will be our second trip to Austria's capital city, the last being part of a two country trip in 2007 when we were based in the Slovakian capital, Bratislava.
The match choices have not been finalised, but we will be sure to visit FK Austria Vienna's redeveloped Generali Stadion for a Bundesliga fixture. For the last two years FK Austria have been playing at the national stadium, the Ernst Happel Stadion, so it is a welcome return 'home' for the Violets.
The match choices have not been finalised, but we will be sure to visit FK Austria Vienna's redeveloped Generali Stadion for a Bundesliga fixture. For the last two years FK Austria have been playing at the national stadium, the Ernst Happel Stadion, so it is a welcome return 'home' for the Violets.
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Once the schedules have been published, then we will be able to confirm the games we will take in and around Vienna, between the obligatory partaking of 'coffee and cake'. Watch this space.
Look out for the latest 'Football Weekends' . . . .
Wilkie Tours trip to Germany earlier this year is in the August issue of this excellent, glossy, monthly magazine. It's another bumper edition, go buy it and see for yourselves.
We're still here, just sayin'!
While we recover from the World Cup tournament, and the heat! here are some retrospectives to remind ourselves, and our viewers, what we've been up to over the years. Don't have nightmares . . . . . . .
CONIFA, then 'Clasico De Campeones'
After visiting Carshalton and Sutton for the opening games of the CONIFA 2018 World Cup in May, the Wilkie Tour archivist (or should that be anorak?) took in a game in Washington DC - see the 'Al & Tony's Blog' page for the fascinating details.
Countries visited by Wilkie ToursWhat countries have Wilkie Tours visited? We hear you ask.
Here is a simple graphic to illustrate the countries that we've visited to date. Some of the countries visited have been grouped, i.e. Balkans (Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Macedonia), Central Europe (Austria, Hungary, Czechia, Slovakia), Benelux (Belgium, Luxembourg), Baltic States (Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia); Corsica has been included with France and Sardinia with Italy. No surprises with the most frequently visited countries, our favourite is Bella Italia, with Spain and Germany growing in popularity. Wilkie Tours reconvene next month after the Premier League fixtures are published enabling the itinerary for the late Summer / Autumn trips to be discussed. |
Wilkie Tours PORTO trip in Football Weekends
Yes, hot off the press in May's edition of the 'must have' magazine 'Football Weekends' is a 5-page article on Wilkie Tours 3-match trip to Portugal.
Visit www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and any back issues.
Visit www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and any back issues.
We're back from Cologne!
WILKIE, BAZ, PHIL, COL & AL (BUSHY) AT BORUSSIA PARK
See report under 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Look out for the full write up on our trip to Portugal in next month's edition of the excellent Football Weekends magazine.
Look out for the full write up on our trip to Portugal in next month's edition of the excellent Football Weekends magazine.
Football Weekends - April edition
Four-page report of Wilkie Tours December trip to Rome in the latest issue of this excellent monthly publication.
Visit their website at: www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and any back issues.
Visit their website at: www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and any back issues.
Germany here we come . . . .
Seven of us are flying to Cologne in North Rhine-Westphalia for Wilkie Tours return to the city of our April 2011 tour, where previously games were seen at Cologne, Leverkusen and Dusseldorf.
We have arranged tickets for our first two scheduled games on this tour, a Friday night fixture at Bonn and a Saturday afternoon fixture at Borussia Monchengladbach. Tickets for the former were printed at home after phoning the ticket office to order them; tickets for the latter were ordered on the club's website and posted to the UK.
MESSAGE FROM YOUR SPONSOR
Sadly yours truly, joint editor Alan, had to pull out of the Cologne trip (Wilkie Tour No. 78) with illness at the very last moment (see horrific graphic photos below}. It was going to be my Swansong for the foreseeable future because of my continuing long term health problems. It wasn't to be unfortunately ! ! ! Fortunately though what in fact turned out to be my last trip was the SOOOPURB Porto Tour ( Wilkie Tour No. 77) in February this year which was truly excellent ( and where my problems started to rear their ugly heads unfortunately....). Having to cancel 2 out of the last 4 tours was the final straw. Luckily Tony's articles in the excellent Football Weekends ( see above and below) and within our website makes you feel like you were there and I can envision what they get up from previous memories of the 15 Tours i've been on (It should have been 20 barring illness ! ! !) as these trips follow a similar pattern as you've probably have read. As per I will be going on the pre-tour currys and the legendary close season annual Summer Curry if at all possible though I do have Family business in Italy that demands time there whether well or ill. Will Still be supporting the guys from the comfort of my computer of course.
Yours for ever
Alan Silvestri.
Forza Italia........
Football Weekends - March edition
Another set of photos from the WIlkie Tours archive has been included in March's edition of this excellent magazine. This time the theme is 'Lesser known grounds in ITALY'.
Visit their website at: www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and any back issues.
The Magnificent 7 are back from PORTO
Yes, the Winter ills struck one of our number down pre trip so (left to right) Baz, Col, Clive, Tony, Big Al, Phil & Wilkie were forced to enjoy the weekend sans Neil (a Wilkie Tour virgin, ahem).
A fuller report is available on 'Al & Tony's Blog' page. Enjoy!
A fuller report is available on 'Al & Tony's Blog' page. Enjoy!
Football Weekends - February edition is out
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Yes, the latest Football Weekends magazine is now available and is packed with great photos and interesting articles, including Wilkie Tours December trip to GDANSK. The magazine is published 10 times a year and is also available on subscription. Visit their website at: www.footballweekends.co.uk for details on where you can get hold of the latest copy and back issues. |
Bloomin' TV scheduling!
Since Wilkie Tours last trip in early December, members of the group have watched games at St Mary's Stadium, Dean Court (Vitality Stadium), Stamford Bridge, Wembley Stadium, The Simplyhealth City Ground (Winchester - see photos above), Craven Cottage, Vicarage Road, Selhurst Park and The Silverlake Stadium (Eastleigh), keeping our match-day senses sharp ahead of our trip to Porto next month.
The fixtures for the late February weekend have just been published; we fly out to Portugal on Friday morning, returning on Monday afternoon. As can sometimes happen with TV scheduling one game on our itinerary, at the two-sided Estadio Municipal de Braga, has been confirmed for Monday evening after our return flight!
Having visited Porto twice before seeing games at the Estadio do Dragao on both occasions, we have selected Porto based Boavista (v Setubal) as our main event on the Sunday evening and are researching possible supporting events. They include a Saturday night game at Pacos de Ferreira (v Benfica!), a return to Vila do Conde for Rio Ave for a Friday night fixture, both in Primeira Liga, or a Segunda Liga game (e.g. Leixoes). No doubt Wilkie will call a committee meeting shortly to agree which of these games (and others) best fit the itinerary for this Portuguese adventure.
As Pacos de Ferreira have a small capacity stadium (the Estadio da Mata Real holds 9,200) and sold out last year for Benfica's visit we'll be happy to receive any tips on securing tickets- please add any comments on 'Al & Tony's Blog' page. Obrigado!
Look out for photos from the Wilkie Tours archive and tales of some our adventures in the excellent Football Weekends magazine.
The fixtures for the late February weekend have just been published; we fly out to Portugal on Friday morning, returning on Monday afternoon. As can sometimes happen with TV scheduling one game on our itinerary, at the two-sided Estadio Municipal de Braga, has been confirmed for Monday evening after our return flight!
Having visited Porto twice before seeing games at the Estadio do Dragao on both occasions, we have selected Porto based Boavista (v Setubal) as our main event on the Sunday evening and are researching possible supporting events. They include a Saturday night game at Pacos de Ferreira (v Benfica!), a return to Vila do Conde for Rio Ave for a Friday night fixture, both in Primeira Liga, or a Segunda Liga game (e.g. Leixoes). No doubt Wilkie will call a committee meeting shortly to agree which of these games (and others) best fit the itinerary for this Portuguese adventure.
As Pacos de Ferreira have a small capacity stadium (the Estadio da Mata Real holds 9,200) and sold out last year for Benfica's visit we'll be happy to receive any tips on securing tickets- please add any comments on 'Al & Tony's Blog' page. Obrigado!
Look out for photos from the Wilkie Tours archive and tales of some our adventures in the excellent Football Weekends magazine.
We're back from Roma!
See tour narrative and images on 'Al & Tony's Blog'.
Tickets secured for Rome trip!
A Wilkie Tours quartet of Wilkie, Baz, Big Al & Tony are heading for the Lazio region of Italy this week. Tickets for the Friday night Serie A fixture at the Stadio Olimpico (Roma v new boys SPAL) and for the Serie B fixture on Saturday at Frosinone's new stadium (v Cesena) have been purchased on line. A possible third fixture has been mooted for Sunday - on the coast at Serie D Ostia.
Take a peek at 'Al & Tony's Blog' for a report and some snaps from the last trip - to Tuscany, featuring games at Bologna & Empoli.
Take a peek at 'Al & Tony's Blog' for a report and some snaps from the last trip - to Tuscany, featuring games at Bologna & Empoli.
Wilkie Tours hit Poland
Yes Wilkie Tours are in Gdansk but unfortunately without me, Al, after a late fitness test. My exertions at the Southampton boat Show left me with spasms and after legs gave way while walking there was no option but to stay behind. With family in Poland it was a hard call but i'm sure Dave and the gang will make up for it by partying extra hard..........erm, I mean try to see a third match and go to 3 extra museums..... more like. Sad face. Enjoy.
Yes Wilkie Tours are in Gdansk but unfortunately without me, Al, after a late fitness test. My exertions at the Southampton boat Show left me with spasms and after legs gave way while walking there was no option but to stay behind. With family in Poland it was a hard call but i'm sure Dave and the gang will make up for it by partying extra hard..........erm, I mean try to see a third match and go to 3 extra museums..... more like. Sad face. Enjoy.
I'm back.....
.......Where from????? I hear you say. Ten days hard labour at the Boat Show I say. A punishing 120 hours has taken its toll and I have been left a mere shell of my former self. So much so that i've put myself on the injury list and will miss the pre-Poland curry tomorrow night ( nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!) in an attempt to recover ( I can barely walk at the mo ! ). No joke. See the blog for more info...
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE . . . . .
Look out for 4 pages of Wilkie Tours photos in September's issue of the Football Weekends magazine; the 12 photos were taken at some of the 'Lesser Known Venues' that Wilkie Tours have visited over the years, namely Benevento, Mantova, Grosetto (all Italy), Pernik (Bulgaria), Fellbach, Furth, Regensburg (all Germany), Moreirense (Portugal), Portugalette, Barakaldo, Motril, Real Jaen (all Spain).
The glossy Football Weekends magazine is published monthly and is well worth a read if you enjoy experiencing football at home and abroad.
Look out for 4 pages of Wilkie Tours photos in September's issue of the Football Weekends magazine; the 12 photos were taken at some of the 'Lesser Known Venues' that Wilkie Tours have visited over the years, namely Benevento, Mantova, Grosetto (all Italy), Pernik (Bulgaria), Fellbach, Furth, Regensburg (all Germany), Moreirense (Portugal), Portugalette, Barakaldo, Motril, Real Jaen (all Spain).
The glossy Football Weekends magazine is published monthly and is well worth a read if you enjoy experiencing football at home and abroad.
The "TOP TEN" tourers; Clive, Wilkie, "newbie" Neil (Bugsy), yours truly Alan S, co-contributor Tony, Phil, Nigel, Adrian, Al (El Bushe) and the legend that is Baz...What a turn out ! ! !
I'm back ! ! ! Thanks to Tony "as per" for keeping the flag flying while I was renovating in Italy......
Luckily back in time for the Wilkie Tours Annual Summer Curry night at the excellent "Nicholes Curry House" in salubrious Shirley. See my pics in "Al and Tony's" blog page with Tony's in depth and spicy review real soon.
Well, our intrepid Wilkie Tours Archivist Tony B had an interesting trip to the Europa League final albeit with a largely disappointing game but with a great result for Manchester. See his blog for the lowdown of his Swedish Odyssey. Tis great.
I still seem to be frozen out of the "blog zone" but as me and nipper are heading to Italy for six weeks imminently will have to leave you in our Tony's hands for the duration so keep reading as he has story's aplenty to regale you with and will update regularly i'm sure. Over to you Tony !
Hoping Wilkie Tourer Tony is enjoying the Europa League final, live in Sweden. Utd 2-0 at the moment. Sorry to say last day round up in limbo as Al and Tony's blog is "frozen" on my log in and I can't access/close/or publish my blog. Working on it. Down time.
Our hearts go out to the fallen.......
Luckily back in time for the Wilkie Tours Annual Summer Curry night at the excellent "Nicholes Curry House" in salubrious Shirley. See my pics in "Al and Tony's" blog page with Tony's in depth and spicy review real soon.
Well, our intrepid Wilkie Tours Archivist Tony B had an interesting trip to the Europa League final albeit with a largely disappointing game but with a great result for Manchester. See his blog for the lowdown of his Swedish Odyssey. Tis great.
I still seem to be frozen out of the "blog zone" but as me and nipper are heading to Italy for six weeks imminently will have to leave you in our Tony's hands for the duration so keep reading as he has story's aplenty to regale you with and will update regularly i'm sure. Over to you Tony !
Hoping Wilkie Tourer Tony is enjoying the Europa League final, live in Sweden. Utd 2-0 at the moment. Sorry to say last day round up in limbo as Al and Tony's blog is "frozen" on my log in and I can't access/close/or publish my blog. Working on it. Down time.
Our hearts go out to the fallen.......
STOP PRESS - see the current issue (May 2017) of Football Weekends magazine for a six page spread on Wilkie Tours trip to Murcia, Spain.
Details of this excellent monthly publication can be found at: www.footballweekends.co.uk
Sounds GREAT Tony. Will track it down...
The boys are back in town....Yessiree. The intrepid 6 have returned from ( Dukla ) Prague. Read Tony's riveting review of the trip in Al's Blog ( soon to be re-named Al and Tony's Blog !). It makes you feel like you were really there. Mmmmmmm Prague.
Way hay......... Pre tour curry tonight (4th April 17) as Prague approaches. A top 9 peeps attending ! ! ! Review tomorrow. Mmmmmmmm curry...... Later.
Still Cannot upload my Murcia pics but Tony's are sooper. Mmmmmm
Wilkie Tours trip 72 made a triumphal return to the UK after a beer and wine fuelled odyssey to Southern Spain and the charming and un-spoilt Murcia. Actually there was a lot of culture and some football ( two games in one day!) on trains and boats (Erm, make that trams) and buses/coaches and planes. Yours truly made a quiet unassuming, tee-total (NEARLY) re-appearance and was on my best behaviour.....ahem ! ! ! See Tony's review of the four day excursion in Al's blog. It's a doozy. I caught plane flu on return flight......................achoo.....s**t.
And now it's Happy New Year. See Al's Blog....
HAPPY CHRISTMAS, ONE AND ALL.
Cheers Tony for filling in while I was moving and 2nd laptop virused thru Facebook ! ! ! Will update on Thursday (thru old vv slow family puter that has been booted up especially) as that's first day free from parties, family, visitors etc. SOON.
Normal Service Will Be Resumed As Soon As Possible ....
The web master is indisposed keeping his family afloat as well as overcoming technical problems with updating the site. In the meantime here's some music . . . . ."sorry squire, I scratched the record".
However, stop press! An adventurous trio of Wilkie Tourists are off to Portugal this weekend for some winter warmth and a couple of games or three. The targets are all in the top flight, namely Guimaeres, Moreirense & Porto. Keep an eye on Al's Blog page for match reports next week. Obrigado!
Scare. Lost thecontents of the site for a few days but all seemingly good again (phew !) though seem to have lost August and Septembers updates. Not so Phew ! Oh well.
STOP PRESS. New season getting into it's stride and yours truly ( Alan not Tony) has been struck down again for last 4 weeks with my cellulitus and coupled with an imminent house move it's been pretty stressful month. It also meant I had to pull out of the Bilbao, Wilkie Tour at the last minute which was heartbreaking and a trip to Italy for family business has been postponed. Still, on the mend now and football never sleeps ! So back to the blog peeps
2016/2017 Football Season begins.
17th August. Well, well well.... that's it then, The start of another season. Where on earth have three months gone ? ? ? 2016/2017.......May the force be with you !
Sorry for the lateness of the hour and updates but blimey the Season don't arf start early..... Tried to block it from my mind cos once it starts it takes over your life ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Yessir-eeeee.
Hope you had a great "close season" and are ready to rock this new term.
My post op recouperation has gone from strength to strength and I walk 3 miles nearly every day. NO running or football allowed tho. I am a new man........My wife will not let me get a new woman ! Argh.
You'll be pleased to know I went to the opening matches for my two season ticketed teams. Southampton v Watford 1-1 and Eastleigh v Guiseley 2-1. Since then Eastleigh have lost at Tranmere ( to a last kick of the game winner) 1-2 and 2-4 last night and that result cost Manager Todd his job today ! Saints are away at Utd on Friday for game 2, gulp.
Other local Premier side Bournemouth lost their opener at home to Utd and Div 2 Portsmouth have 2 draws and a defeat from their three games.
Hopefully you can keep abreast of other scores from across Europe yourselves as I have re-started working and am looking to move house in the next few weeks so will be up to my " eyeballs" for the next six weeks then it'll be a time for the first Wilkie Tour of this season and a trip to Italy on family business so you can see my time will be precious. Many apologies then.
We had our usual Summer break Wilkie Tours Curry night earlier this month and further itineraries were discussed but nothing defo. I am pleased to announce that stalwart Wilkie Tourer Baz Hunt is back on board and as I am on the Bilbao trip I have a ready made drinking buddy. Huzzah. Welcome back Baz.
Oh yeah, instantly having trouble uploading Al's Blog updates....Grrrrrrr Tony's got it nailed tho. Will try other puter......
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17th May. Well, well well.....that's about it then. What a.season it's been with excitement til the last day in most European Leagues ( apart from the Bunedesliga and League Un of course. More on Al's blog if I can "publish" that is ! Great last day for Southampton too.
8th May. Damn and blast. Issues with blog page again. Doesn't seem to appear after publishing. Will keep re-trying. Great win for Southampton away at Spurs. 2-1 with both goals from Mr Industrious, Steven Davis. Sunderland win but Newcastle and Norwich look to be down. Barca by 1 point. Verona beat champs Juve. Frosinone lose and look doomed. Frankfurt win and COULD yet escape. It's all kicking off.
Monday.....Well that was quick, they'll be on their way back shortly
with tales of derring-do footy facts and figures and the sweet smell of wine stained cardigans and worn out wellies. ! ! !
6th MayPre tour Curry on Tuesday( 3rd May) was a success at a new venue in Porstwood. The hardy four headed out to Stuttgart for a 3 match weekend in the blistering heat on Friday morning. Enjoy.
Leicester prove the doubters wrong to win Premier League with 2 games to go. Astonishing...........
See blog to find out if Eastleigh make play-offs... Erm don't..They didn't turn up at last game and lost. Oh dear !
Ok, in full recovery mode again after that blip and sat waiting to watch ETFC play Tranmere rovers and give themselves the chance to secure a play-off berth. Tense !
Spoke too soon. Went down with 44th ? episode of Cellulitus after having hip op wound bashed by guy at Eastleigh Town FC's game on Saturday. Oh dear !
Well, a BIG thank you to Tony B for stepping away from his busy schedule (walking round Britain at double speed it seems ! ) to do the last two weeks of footy updates. AND still there are more 1000 plus visit days. Excellent. Four weeks post-op and am healing nicely and doing a fair bit of therapy myself tho overdid it Thursday walking to Physiotherapy session 1 1/2 miles away ! ! ! I'm back....
17-03-16..... Well it's Operation day (Where have 3 years waiting gone? ). Sorry if I haven't updated much of the week-ends Euro results but had loads to get ready around house in preparation for six weeks recovery. Hoping Mr T will step into the breach and keep you entertained. See you on the other side..............
** Mr T will give it a go, Al - I'll post updates on 'Al's Blog' page **
Er what ? ? ? Is this the other side???? Why yes it is. I'm partially back after my successful operation but not firing on all cylinders quite yet as I aim to return to "full" fitness and looking forward to this weekend's update from our Tony. Hope you enjoyed his breathtaking coverage of the last lot of league results. He made it all sound so sexy and exciting and viewing figures have been at an all time high ! ! Brill.
4-03-16Hey guys, not feeling too well this week. Operation coming up fast so will keep updates brief for a few weeks. Hope you're all good.
Underdogs Utd beat Div 1 Shrewsbury ! Who saw that coming ? ? ?
Southampton make it 6 games without conceding a goal and 5 wins !
As at Week ending 26-02-16...............
Top six are;
1 Leicester
2 Spurs
3 Arsenal
4 City
5 Utd
6 Saints
Ok publishing seems to be behaving (fingers crossed ! )
And unfortunately having probs publishing updates in my Blog again!
The boys are in Italy and may have seen 3 matches by now. Hope all going to plan. Oh yeah, Baz sent me a picture of a drain cover. More on that later.
W I L K I E T O U R S
16-01-2016.......
Saint's win three on the bounce to go back up to 8th as they beat Utd!
01-01-2016
Happy New Year Peeps. Hope you had a good un. 2016 heralds 8th year of this site (PHEW !)
WHERE FOOTBALL AND CULTURE MIX TO GIVE YOU.......FULTURE, ERM CULT BALL, ...OH, FUTSHURE.....AHH, FUN !
Sorry peeps, went out Saturday to see my Son's band after Southampton 's match. Update came Sunday !
|
 Hi I'm NOT Wilkie, i'm Alan ( no relation ) and i'm the face behind the Wilkie Tours Web Site. Indeed I write and edit this piece of fluff, sometimes simultaneously ! Check it out for an insight into our football based "GROUND HOPPING" Euro excursions. FYI Profile of " Real " Wilkie below. Have fun. Includes Jubilee Concert pics gallery for no reason what-so-ever... |
15-12-2015
Yay, I did go on the Wilkie Tour to Valencia and tho I struggled a bit I got around pretty well with a lot of help from the boys and the people of that fair city.
06-12-15
Had a particularly bad week with my hips/legs/knees as Wilkie Tour to Spain rapidly approaches. Not sure which way this is going to go as can barely walk now. Oh dear........................................
Pre tour curry tomorrow. May resolve things then .
Well, resolved. I am going but don't know how much I'll be involved.
17-11-15
Sorry been a bit all over the place last few months guys (illness and family business/hols) but after my Significant birthday this week will have a bit more time to tidy up the site, hopefully with Tony B on board to help.............Erm Tony B, are you busy mate????????
Boys in Luxembourg seeing a couple of games this weekend. Enjoy! Unfortunately missed the pre tour Curry as was still in Cyprus. Drat, you know how i like those currys ! ! !
Erm, back from family hols in Cyprus and in UK til next Wilkie Tour in Spain in December. Wilkie and the boys currently in Luxembourg.
Sorry peeps, been away in Italy on family business again and since return Parent web site had some updates which impeded access to my site. All seems OK again. Saints win 2 on the spin SHOCK ! See blog.
Chelsea lose again. What's wrong with Mourinho ? ? ? AND Alan?
Rooney tops England goalscoring record book.
Southampton beat Norwich to go 10th and record their first win.
My (now ) nearest Serie A team in Italy is Frosinone and they started life in the top tier with a home defeat to Torino,1-2. Early days. Is my fave player Evacuo still playing for them???? Erm doubt it. It's been a few years since we saw him play there. Anyway will try to coincide with a home match when i'm over in Sept/Oct.
Hi Di Hi Football types ( you know who you are ! ). Welcome to the new Football Season 2015-16. May the force be with your Teams ! !
Well the first weekends results are all done in the Premiership and there have been some strange results. More on that in my blog,Enjoy.
Oh yeah, ......................................where did the summer break go ? ?
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Team Silvestri back from European Tour and we're fitter and healthier and wittier and pithier and full of football news & hi-jinks !
( ps See Al's blog's for the truth.................................................. ! )
Hi Peeps, we are in Italy now and just have tablet so will keep things brief. (Rest of this now transferred into Al's blog where it should be.)
Lots of incredible football things happening but I don't care as it's Pre Tour Curry Night in the New Forest tonight as the boys count down to Wilkie Tour 64 in Germany. ( Wilkie Tour 63 in Perugia will take some beating but with an extra match to see that may sway things ! ! ! ). Posts seem to be "not-disappearing" Huzzah ......
Hi Guys, sorry to say having trouble saving posts. Pls be patient ! ! !
PS HOPE YOU GOT LOTS OF LOVELY CHOCOLATE EGGS
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Would you Adam and Eve it ? ? ?
Well, well, well, here we are peeps back from a stunningly good 63rd Wilkie Tour in Perugia. As is usual, when I don't update scores or am away in Devon or my place in Italy the "HITS" are always high. BUT this weekend while we were in Umbria there was an unprecedented Ultra high count of 2,839. WOW. It's almost as if you guys prefer it when I'm not here ! ! !
Will do a round-up shortly and add a new Tour page soon-ish but as per there are the usual doctors appointments and it's my handicapped son's Birthday today so football will have to wait til tonight or tomorrow. Tony has updated the Spreadsheet and that will be uploaded ASAP too. Thanks for watching, we'll be "fully" up-to-date shortly. Al
Will do a round-up shortly and add a new Tour page soon-ish but as per there are the usual doctors appointments and it's my handicapped son's Birthday today so football will have to wait til tonight or tomorrow. Tony has updated the Spreadsheet and that will be uploaded ASAP too. Thanks for watching, we'll be "fully" up-to-date shortly. Al
Way hey...24-02-15.It's pre tour Curry night in Shirley, Southampton. PlusSaints lost to Liverpool at w/end. Ouch.
Yep, we had a fabulous curry at the Jewel in the Crown in Shirley, Southampton.
Great food and pre tour chats and planning of our itinerary. 2 matches for definite plus a bit of sight seeing and culture. I will have several beers even without drinking buddy Baz. Peruggia here we come ! ! !
Disappearing write ups return, don't quite know why. Will investigate.
Saint's return to 3rd spot after last minute win at QPR. Man Utd can only draw and stay 4th. Bournemouth stay top of Championshiop after latest win.
Southampton's great run ends with surprise home defeat by Swansea thanks to Jonjo Shelby's super strike.
*** Saints win At Newcastle to remain third in Premier League ( they cannot be relagated as things stand ! ! !)***
***Southampton beat Man Utd at Old Trafford to go third in Premier League***
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY AND WELCOME TO 2015, OUR 7TH YEAR OF "FOOTY" RELATED WEB SITE MAYHEM ! ! !
Yes, thank you for dropping in and catching up with Wilkie Tours. Straight in with a trip to Italy and a tour in Perugia in Early February where I have been with the missus and WT's have also sojourned
After a horrible run of close defeats Southampton have responded brilliantly with victories over Crystal Palace (Manager Warnock's last game in charge) and New Years Day over Arsenal plus a brilliant draw with leaders Chelsea. Its the FA Cup this weekend as most of Europe closed down for the winter break.
Wilkie himself seems revitalised and will surely try to cram several tours this year, following this early success. You may remember things didn't pan out early 2014 so it's make up time. I will be on the Perugia trip but will then be in Italy, rebuilding/decorating our property near Frosinone, for three months. I will hopefully catch several local games in Isola del Lire, Frosinone, Arpino and Sora which have healthy league action. May sneak an Autumn trip if not obliged to go to Italy and Cyprus again.
APOLOGIES
Sorry you guys, having a few issues with hours of updating not being published just the tiles. Some posts have re-appeared but frustrating when a few hours of typing just disappears.
Another pre-tour Curry during the week as the boys headed to Spain over the weekend with a raft of potential games lined up ( you can tell that Tony B is on this trip !) and Wilkie is looking to book the first trip of 2015 in February, as soon as he returns after this latest trip. I may be able to attend ! ! ! Hope your preperations for Xmas are going well and you're seeing a lot of football. Off to Devon again for a few days. Later. Al
NB JUST NOTICED GUYS TO ACCESS MORE PAGES GO TO MORE IN THE DROP DOWN MENU DROP DOWN TO WILKIE TOUR NEWS AND REST ON THE RIGHT POINTING ARROW TO ACCESS BRNO WT
November 8 2014. Chelsea first 29 pts, Southampton 2nd 25 pnts. What can you say?????
OK, Southampton continue their winning streak. Stoke at home twice 1-0 in league 3-2 away at Stoke in Cup (into 1/4 finals) and 1-0 away at Hull. So are still second. Brilliant ! ! !
Back from Italy but couldn't get to any games as had the family with me.
Well Well Well, I think we witnessed the most shocking result of the season so far.......................................................................Yes Newcastle beating Leicester. Never saw that coming ! ! ! ......................NO, of course not. It was Southampton's EIGHT - NIL victory over Sunderland. Of course the press made it more about Sunderland than Saints but getting used to that. So still third after 8 games. Not too shabby.....
Wins for Chelsea, City, West Ham and Everton. Utd can only draw at West Brom this evening. Arsenal's home draw with Hull showed why they are just not good enough to win this League despite having so many great players. Will not accept injuries as a reason for poor results as most top 6 Premier league teams should have 2 great players in every position. Not a good enough excuse. Come on peeps, you know you're going to have injuries . Prepare for it. Ooops sorry, just fell off my high horse.
Locally, Bournemouth win in the C/ship, Portsmouth lose in League 2 and a win too for Eastleigh in the Conference.
France. Marseille 7 points clear of PSG and Bordeaux. Good to see Steed Malbranqe scoring in Lyons 5-1 win over Montpellier. Moneybags Monaco in 10th. Holland. PSV stretch lead to 4 points. Italy. Juve can only draw at bottom club Sassualo. Roma edge closer with win. Germany. Bayern and Monchengladbach both win. Spain. It's Barca Seville and Real all have good wins. Xavi Neymar and Messi for Barca. Ronaldo fails to get hat trick ( Come on Christiano, pull your finger out !) Atletico 5th.
Sorry that's it, jet lag ! ! ! OK didn't sleep before driving back to Rome, no sleep on plane and driving back to Southampton as wife had picked up Becks from Gatwick after driving back from Stansted....You get the picture right????
Yep, we had a fabulous curry at the Jewel in the Crown in Shirley, Southampton.
Great food and pre tour chats and planning of our itinerary. 2 matches for definite plus a bit of sight seeing and culture. I will have several beers even without drinking buddy Baz. Peruggia here we come ! ! !
Disappearing write ups return, don't quite know why. Will investigate.
Saint's return to 3rd spot after last minute win at QPR. Man Utd can only draw and stay 4th. Bournemouth stay top of Championshiop after latest win.
Southampton's great run ends with surprise home defeat by Swansea thanks to Jonjo Shelby's super strike.
*** Saints win At Newcastle to remain third in Premier League ( they cannot be relagated as things stand ! ! !)***
***Southampton beat Man Utd at Old Trafford to go third in Premier League***
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY AND WELCOME TO 2015, OUR 7TH YEAR OF "FOOTY" RELATED WEB SITE MAYHEM ! ! !
Yes, thank you for dropping in and catching up with Wilkie Tours. Straight in with a trip to Italy and a tour in Perugia in Early February where I have been with the missus and WT's have also sojourned
After a horrible run of close defeats Southampton have responded brilliantly with victories over Crystal Palace (Manager Warnock's last game in charge) and New Years Day over Arsenal plus a brilliant draw with leaders Chelsea. Its the FA Cup this weekend as most of Europe closed down for the winter break.
Wilkie himself seems revitalised and will surely try to cram several tours this year, following this early success. You may remember things didn't pan out early 2014 so it's make up time. I will be on the Perugia trip but will then be in Italy, rebuilding/decorating our property near Frosinone, for three months. I will hopefully catch several local games in Isola del Lire, Frosinone, Arpino and Sora which have healthy league action. May sneak an Autumn trip if not obliged to go to Italy and Cyprus again.
APOLOGIES
Sorry you guys, having a few issues with hours of updating not being published just the tiles. Some posts have re-appeared but frustrating when a few hours of typing just disappears.
Another pre-tour Curry during the week as the boys headed to Spain over the weekend with a raft of potential games lined up ( you can tell that Tony B is on this trip !) and Wilkie is looking to book the first trip of 2015 in February, as soon as he returns after this latest trip. I may be able to attend ! ! ! Hope your preperations for Xmas are going well and you're seeing a lot of football. Off to Devon again for a few days. Later. Al
NB JUST NOTICED GUYS TO ACCESS MORE PAGES GO TO MORE IN THE DROP DOWN MENU DROP DOWN TO WILKIE TOUR NEWS AND REST ON THE RIGHT POINTING ARROW TO ACCESS BRNO WT
November 8 2014. Chelsea first 29 pts, Southampton 2nd 25 pnts. What can you say?????
OK, Southampton continue their winning streak. Stoke at home twice 1-0 in league 3-2 away at Stoke in Cup (into 1/4 finals) and 1-0 away at Hull. So are still second. Brilliant ! ! !
Back from Italy but couldn't get to any games as had the family with me.
Well Well Well, I think we witnessed the most shocking result of the season so far.......................................................................Yes Newcastle beating Leicester. Never saw that coming ! ! ! ......................NO, of course not. It was Southampton's EIGHT - NIL victory over Sunderland. Of course the press made it more about Sunderland than Saints but getting used to that. So still third after 8 games. Not too shabby.....
Wins for Chelsea, City, West Ham and Everton. Utd can only draw at West Brom this evening. Arsenal's home draw with Hull showed why they are just not good enough to win this League despite having so many great players. Will not accept injuries as a reason for poor results as most top 6 Premier league teams should have 2 great players in every position. Not a good enough excuse. Come on peeps, you know you're going to have injuries . Prepare for it. Ooops sorry, just fell off my high horse.
Locally, Bournemouth win in the C/ship, Portsmouth lose in League 2 and a win too for Eastleigh in the Conference.
France. Marseille 7 points clear of PSG and Bordeaux. Good to see Steed Malbranqe scoring in Lyons 5-1 win over Montpellier. Moneybags Monaco in 10th. Holland. PSV stretch lead to 4 points. Italy. Juve can only draw at bottom club Sassualo. Roma edge closer with win. Germany. Bayern and Monchengladbach both win. Spain. It's Barca Seville and Real all have good wins. Xavi Neymar and Messi for Barca. Ronaldo fails to get hat trick ( Come on Christiano, pull your finger out !) Atletico 5th.
Sorry that's it, jet lag ! ! ! OK didn't sleep before driving back to Rome, no sleep on plane and driving back to Southampton as wife had picked up Becks from Gatwick after driving back from Stansted....You get the picture right????
Southampton 2nd in the Premier League for second week in a row. British Press un-impressed ! ! ! See Al's Blog......................OK, down to third for a couple of weeks during International break.
OK, I'm Italy for a few weeks and incommunicado (thanks Blackberry) so apologies to Wilkie who's sent a couple of messages I couldn't reply to. Southampton's Graziano Pelle was talk of the Italian press thanks to his winning goal vs Malta. Quite a few comments when I've worntheSaints shirt! I have been fighting Italian officialdom and midges( nasty biting insects)in the blistering unseasonal heat. Will try to see my nearest local football team , Isola de Liri, on Saturday, as Stadium is just down the hill from our place. Back to UK on Monday. Later peeps.
Having probs with blog at the moment!
STOP PRESS---------WILKIE TOURS SUMMER CURRY TONIGHT--------STOP PRESS
Alan has re-entered the website!
So sorry everyone but the dreaded Cellulitus has taken me out for the last 5 weeks (now 9 weeks). It laid me so low I have only seen a fraction of the World Cup....... the 3rd England game in full.....................actually didn't see last 20 mins, lost the will to live and the Brazil penalty win and about an hours worth of highlights and penalty shoot outs and hardly feel good enough to watch the last few games. I was never going to review any matches just make the odd pithy comment so hope you guys haven't been disappointed with the site. It is after all a Homage to the Legend that is David Wilkins and his amazing roaming army of " ground Hopping" followers. See hits update to show you have been dropping in.
So sorry everyone but the dreaded Cellulitus has taken me out for the last 5 weeks (now 9 weeks). It laid me so low I have only seen a fraction of the World Cup....... the 3rd England game in full.....................actually didn't see last 20 mins, lost the will to live and the Brazil penalty win and about an hours worth of highlights and penalty shoot outs and hardly feel good enough to watch the last few games. I was never going to review any matches just make the odd pithy comment so hope you guys haven't been disappointed with the site. It is after all a Homage to the Legend that is David Wilkins and his amazing roaming army of " ground Hopping" followers. See hits update to show you have been dropping in.
See my blog for weekly updates and a Wilkie-Tours slanted round-up of English and European results !!!
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WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME ! ! !
The 2014/2015 Season is upon us. Where did the close season go? And it's started with a BANG. Check out my blog for an update of day one and a preview of day two in the Premier League. Apologies for no updates of pre-season and transfers but my illness went on for a record 9 weeks but better in time for new season. As ever good luck to the teams you support. Al |
STOP PRESS-UNEXPECTED HIGH OF 161 HITS PER DAY AVERAGE FOR LAST 31 DAY PERIOD (17-07 TO 17-08 2014.........WELL CHUFFED AS THINGS QUIET DURING CLOSE SEASON
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Sorry not much changed recently as this is Wilkie Tours "close" season but things are moving as we speak with the first Tour of 2014 just around the corner (Prague)). There is of course a pre-tour curry where the guys get together and make plans for the trip and talk about the next one on the horizon and generally chew the fat. More news on that soon. Will try and add some bits and bobs around the site to keep things fresh................................................... honest !
Well Well Well It's 2014 and I started this site in 2009 with Wilkie's blessing and the teams support.... Phew, I don't believe it ! Thanks for popping in and seeing what we get up too. Apologies if i've been a bit random of late but I have been ill since October 2012 and it has sometimes affected my output/input but I love doing this so onwards and upwards. Cheers...........
The Premier League starts to take shape as December/January storms hit UK. It's Damp ! ! ! AND Windy !
NB The team at the top of the Premier league at Xmas usually goes on to win it ! Is that true??????????????
- - - 2013 - 2014 Season Good luck to all your teams - - -
-----Soon going to put previous Tours in chronological order now I have SEVEN tour reviews from Tony ------( ok maybe in 2014 !)
NOW 726 hits on 29/08/2012 See blog...
636 hits on 06/05/2013 WOW!
443 hits on 04/08/3013 AMAZING
OK, after the heady days of 85 hits the average is now holding steady at around 50 per day which is still pretty cool.
SO THANKS, YOU GUYS !
Wilkie Tours is not a Holiday Travel site, per say, but more a way of life that revolves around football, food, friends....coffee, culture, crosswords....pizza, pasta, parmesan....architecture, anecdotes and (r) ambling, planes, boats and trains plus walking talking gawping and de-corking. Oh, and the odd bottle of wine or three ( by the litre and definitely........"Sensa Gaz").
Plus the odd photo or two...............with the accent on odd ! !
Now with more than 300.........NO 350, hell no, now over 420 photos ! ! ! @ january 2011 = 700 Whoah ! (70+ of barca trip so far). Feb.735 pics..120 Barca....Now loaded Dusseldorf pics. Four macedonia pics up. sorry, waiting for input. Dec 11 770 pics and As @ Feb 2012 800 pics.....
(NB I'm sure you know this, but, Click on photo to obtain full size image, where available, and to see any captions i've added as you scroll through.)
Now with added Bazz profile.Yes Bazz laid bare in all his glory....mmmm that sounds a bit raunchy.....Tony's profile, done. Colin profile, done! PHIL PROFILE DONE. Nigel profile done and Alan's profile, yeah the biggie ( and we don't just mean his size ! ! ! ) done! Miles profile going well.
Clive's profile almost 1% complete !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ( Actually a fair bit more now)
Hey you guys, the magical number "50" Wilkie Tour has now been and gone but due to other commitments only 4 people were meant to go and then yours truly had to pull out to go to Italy on family business so it was only three.(see blog !). Pictures are being uploaded as we speak
Fyi, New tour pics will come to front of site but will be move chronologically to the end of the site when next tour comes on-line. ( crikey, even i don't understand that !)
FYI 2, averaging 40 hits a day as at 15-11-2011. That'll do me..........That's ditto for 15-12-2011. Soopah.
Ooh Er, 429 hits on 30th December. WoW. And 108 on 9th January 2012. 318 on 14 September 2012.
Extra, extra, "see" all about it !
As I'm having a bit of a photographic re-birth (going old school with print film and canon Eos) I'll be going through hard drive and adding some more pics to tours where available. This means you can re-look at the Web site and see new stuff. OK ? ( Look out for the + after the name).
(45 new pics and counting ! ! !)
NB Because of commitments in Italy I may not be going on many tours in the future unless they're in the Lazio region, but I will be carrying on with the Wilkie Tours Web site. Cheers Alan. PS look out for me on "stealth" visits to Europe THIS year. Mmmmmm cryptic ! ! !
Poland trip was indeed a "stealth" trip, read about it in Poland Tour.
November-ish 2012.......Last 31 days "viewing" figures a site record 85 plus a day. AMAZING... Thanks everyone ! ! !
Wilkie Tours is the Brainchild of Dr. David X. Wilkinstein (his real name), (Extreme Cartographic Draughtsman 1st class, Ex-Ordnance Survey, retired pot-holer (not a euphamism !!) and borderline Jazz afficionado) , 44. The "Dr" is of course honourary, bestowed by Eastleigh Dental Polytechnic, for services to the pig and poultry industries.
David is an ex-SAS officer (rural cartographic division) whose clandestine operations incuded working deep in central Isle of Wight under the pseudonym Davina Welkenstone and covert tours of duty in Dorset and Welsh Wales disguised as a de-frocked Vicar. A lifetime fan and season ticket holder of Southampton football club and with very little interest in football, a plan formulated in his razor-sharp mind ! ! ! ! ! As the son of itinerant clothes-peg sellers he obviously inherited their love of travel and aimlessly kicking around inflated pig bladders, he sold his portfolio of Peg Shares in 2000 and embarked on his odyessy of visiting all the football grounds in Europe ( the good, the bad and the patently just urinated on ( see Split review) and combined it with his latent itinerancy and footballing indifference. As they say, "Lets put on a show??????????". Why they say that, nobody knows....
Wilkie in three words, Organiser, first, patient !
PS Some of the above "facts" may not be strictly true in the full sense of the word......................In fact they may be 99.99% fiction. A.S.
Page last updated 07/05/2013
David is an ex-SAS officer (rural cartographic division) whose clandestine operations incuded working deep in central Isle of Wight under the pseudonym Davina Welkenstone and covert tours of duty in Dorset and Welsh Wales disguised as a de-frocked Vicar. A lifetime fan and season ticket holder of Southampton football club and with very little interest in football, a plan formulated in his razor-sharp mind ! ! ! ! ! As the son of itinerant clothes-peg sellers he obviously inherited their love of travel and aimlessly kicking around inflated pig bladders, he sold his portfolio of Peg Shares in 2000 and embarked on his odyessy of visiting all the football grounds in Europe ( the good, the bad and the patently just urinated on ( see Split review) and combined it with his latent itinerancy and footballing indifference. As they say, "Lets put on a show??????????". Why they say that, nobody knows....
Wilkie in three words, Organiser, first, patient !
PS Some of the above "facts" may not be strictly true in the full sense of the word......................In fact they may be 99.99% fiction. A.S.
Page last updated 07/05/2013
Wilkie feels a right tit....................... I'm embarassed to say that he also felt the left tit.
