Rob Crossan Reflects on the Magic of Old-Fashioned Terraces

Rob Crossan a partially sighted travel journalist, cherishes the experience of watching football from traditional terraces where he can move freely to follow the action. Born with ocular albinism and nystagmus, Crossan has limited vision which makes seated or static areas in modern stadiums challenging. For him, old-fashioned terraces offer an inclusive, flexible way to enjoy football, contrasting with the stratified, wealth-oriented structure of modern grounds.

Terracing, phased out in Premier League stadiums after the 1989 Hillsborough disaster still exists in smaller venues, preserving a sense of community and accessibility. Crossan fondly recalls running along the terrace at Wrexham’s paddock in the 1990s to keep up with the game. Today, he finds joy not only in watching matches but also in soaking up the unique atmosphere and camaraderie of smaller clubs like Barnet, Chesham United and Enfield Town.

As a travel journalist, Crossan’s love for exploring began with Wrexham away games. He recalls quirky moments on terraces, like a seagull stealing chips at Ayr United or a fan knitting during a goalless draw at Workington. Such experiences highlight the character and charm of these venues which he likens to welcoming, unpretentious old pubs. Crossan acknowledges that the Hillsborough tragedy was a turning point for stadium safety and remembers its aftermath vividly.

While vast terraces of the past won’t return, he believes smaller terraces, when managed safely, remain a viable and important part of football culture. For Rob Crossan, they symbolize a time when football was affordable, inclusive and accessible to all, offering a connection that modern stadiums struggle to replicate.