Coventry City will travel to Arsenal on Friday for the opening game of the new Premier League season.
The occasion will mark the Sky Blues first game back in the top flight of English football for the first time in 25 years.
It may well be that we’ve been handed the toughest possible fixture to kick start the season, an away tie with the reigning champions, but the Sky Blue faithful making the trip to North London and those watching back in Cov will likely be in celebration mode regardless.
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With tickets being limited, those attending having first had to have been successful in a ballot, there will be tens of thousands of Cov fans watching it on TV.
Some will watch from home, but many will be looking to soak up the atmosphere and will be looking for a pub to watch it in – any venue in their right mind that has Sky will be showing the game, but we’ve put the below list together in case you need some guidance.
Mister Shenanigans, Spon Street, city centre
Micky Quinn scored a famous hat-trick against Arsenal in 1993
For those of us old enough to remember, Coventry famously beat Arsenal on the opening day of the season thanks to a Micky Quinn hattrick – and the legend will be on hand at Mister Shenanigans for an exclusive Q&A before the big match kicks off.
The Mighty Quinn will be taking questions from 7pm followed by the match on the big screen – first come first serve so getting in early is advised.
The Stag and Hen, Bishop Street, city centre
The Stag loves any excuse to celebrate Coventry City and welcome punters to watch the game with the promise of free Sky Blue coloured shots for every goal we score – it’s just a shame we’re playing against one of the most fearsome defences in the country!
The pub is always busy for matches so it is recommended you get their early for a seat – first come first served.
Castle Grounds, Little Park Street, city centre
The venue will be showing the match across screens and promises great food, cold drinks and good vibes, with live music following from Paul Nose.
You can book a table now for free but they are filling up quickly.
Dhillon’s Brewery, Hales Industrial Estate, new CBS Arena
Due to its proximity to the stadium, Dhillon’s has became a huge part of the match day experience for many Covs – but they also show the games live. Expect food, drink offers and a party atmosphere. Tickets are free but you need to book.
hmv Empire
One of the best venues in the city, the Empire combines music and sport perfectly – so naturally as Coventry take on Arsenal, the Empire has will be showing the Coventry game at 8pm followed by a pre-scheduled event, Funkadelic – Hannah Wants, featuring Paisley Jensen, ADH and Robbie Gunn, meaning you can watch your beloved Sky Blues before spending hours getting boogie on the dance floor. Win win. Tickets are available here.
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