The Goal: To get to Heywood Road for the 8.15am Sale Sharks Supporters Club Fun Bus.
The Destination: Harlequins v Sale Sharks at the Twickenham Stoop.
This game was going to prove a challenge after the last two matches. Sale could massively do with a win, but we'll get to that soon...
The Fun Bus does exactly what it says on the tin. This was my first voyage with the travelling Shark supporters and it didn't disappoint. For £30 (£25 if you are part of the SSSC) you get return travel to the away match, friendly company (this was appreciated from someone travelling on their own), homemade meat pies from the organiser John Dagley and a good supply of Bucks Fizz. With only one accident on the roads, the journey there and back was very smooth. Pick ups were from Heywood Road, Edgeley Park, Sandback Service and Junction 10 (for Roger Bowen).
Once down in sunny Twickenham, we stopped at the Three Kings for lunch. As soon as we stepped through the door we were greeted by Quins fans. "Hello!... how was your journey..." Both team fans chatting and being in the same breathing space. One of the many reasons why I love rugby.
The Three Kings is run by Alan, and with planning from John Dagley, our food orders were ready and waiting for us. The pub was lovely. The New Zealand v South Africa game was showing and everyone was feeling optimistic.
Once at The Stoop, our team were out on the pitch warming up. I like The Stoop. Access all round the pitch to watch the guys warm up was granted and the view from my seat in block GB was super.
The Match: Well, it was better than last week, that's for certain. The highlight for me was Richie Vernon's try. The guy is like a secret ninja. You're not expecting him and then, BOOM! TACKLE! BOOM! TRY!
Competing against Quins for chanting noise was difficult. There was a lot of them, but the Sale contingent did their best.
After the game, the Quins kids invaded the pitch and the Sale lot went to the bar. Yes, we were disappointed but I feel it's at a time like this, when a team needs their supporters the most. We know they can do it! And what better way to tell them, than to walk up whilst they're en route to the bar to get fed. Seeing the shirts, they stop, smile and have a chat with us. Again, another reason why I love rugby! Do you get this player-fan engagement in football? Anyway, they are lovely guys and we try to perk up their mood.
It's now 5.45pm and I'm back on the fun bus. Home time. And despite the loss, I had a great day.
By Jen Urwin - @Reel_Jen on Twitter
Our first Aviva Premiership home game will be Friday 21st September. Click here to book your tickets now!
