How the day unfolded as Sunderland fans made their return to the Stadium of Light

Match day is here – and the fans are finally able to take their seats once again in Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.

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The ground will welcome in 10,000 supporters to watch Sunderland AFC take on Lincoln City in the second leg of their play-off against Lincoln City.

We’re at Stadium Park to soak up the atmosphere in the build up to the crunch game and will also be on hand to find out how fans react to the outcome of the match.

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Our sports writers will bring you every development in the lead up to the 3.30pm kick-off and then every move on the pitch through their blog, which can be found by clicking here.

Fans are delighted to be back at the Stadium of Light.Fans are delighted to be back at the Stadium of Light.
Fans are delighted to be back at the Stadium of Light.

If you have any stories to share about today’s fixture or would like to send on photos from your watch party or being back in the stands for the first time in more than a year, get in touch via [email protected] or send us a message through our Facebook page.

Wearside welcomes back live sport as the Stadium of Light opens its gates to fans

Key Events

  • Today, Saturday, May 22, will see 10,000 people take their seats in the ground
  • Kick-off is 3.30pm and we’ll be there to follow the anticipation ahead of the game, as well as reaction to the result after the final whistle goes
  • We’ll be bringing you the latest from around the ground, keeping an eye on the roads, weather and more

A look inside the stadium

A sight for sore eyes!

Now this feels more familiar, as we see supporters in more numbers in the streets close by the ground.

Fans head through Sheepfolds and over from Monkwearmouth.Fans head through Sheepfolds and over from Monkwearmouth.
Fans head through Sheepfolds and over from Monkwearmouth.

People in greater numbers are now on their way to the game.People in greater numbers are now on their way to the game.
People in greater numbers are now on their way to the game.

Grandad and grandson reunite for matchday

Bill Bell, 76, from Billingham, has been a Sunderland fan since 1949.

He said: "I'm a bit apprehensive. We are 2-0 down.

They simply have to go for it and attack."

His grandson Jamie Bell, 22, is also a lifelong fan of the Black Cats.

Jamie said: "I'm extremely excited. Very happy to be back. We're going to win 3-0.

“Hope that ages well!"

Bill Bell, 76, with his grandson Jamie Bell, 22, both from Billingham.Bill Bell, 76, with his grandson Jamie Bell, 22, both from Billingham.
Bill Bell, 76, with his grandson Jamie Bell, 22, both from Billingham.

A look outside the ground

People outside the SoL.People outside the SoL.
People outside the SoL.

The crowd is loud! 📢📢📢

Here’s a shot from outside of the ground, close to the Bob Stokoe statue.

People patiently queuing outside the ground.People patiently queuing outside the ground.
People patiently queuing outside the ground.

It’s almost time!

The last of the fans are heading in to take their seats.The last of the fans are heading in to take their seats.
The last of the fans are heading in to take their seats.

Police mark return to helping run a match