St James Park comes alive

St James Park was alive with energy as Exeter City faced Birmingham City in a midweek Sky Bet League One clash.

On a chilly, drizzly evening in the midst of the working week, St James Park defied expectations as a sold-out crowd turned the stadium into a pulsating sea of red and white.

The match, which ended in a 2-0 defeat for the Grecians, saw Birmingham score early through T. Iwata in the 11th minute, setting the tone for a challenging evening. Yet, the home fans remained resilient, their unwavering support echoing through the stands until the final whistle.

Jay Stansfield provided a heartfelt post-match moment, stepping out to greet the home faithful with waves and smiles.

Exeter City fans honoured Stanfield’s father with a heartfelt tribute, displaying a flag featuring his shirt number, 9. He played for the club from 2006 until his cancer diagnosis and passing in 2010.

Exeter defender, Tristan Crama also lauded the crowd post-match, saying, “We can feel you on the pitch - the voice, the noise.”

The slick surface, affected by the evening’s rain, added pace and intensity to the game. Gary Caldwell reflected on the conditions, noting, “It was a great night for football.”

Although the result didn’t favour the Grecians, the atmosphere was a testament to the club’s growing stature and deep ties to the community. The energy in the stadium, coupled with moments of pride and connection, underscored why St James Park remains a fortress of football passion.

As the Grecians fought valiantly on the pitch, St James Park stood as a testament to over a century of history. Home to Exeter City since 1908, the ground has transformed from a modest farmer’s field into an enduring symbol of the club’s identity.

From its early days with a small wooden stand to surviving a devastating fire in 1926 and pioneering floodlit football in Devon in 1953, the stadium has seen both triumphs and challenges. Modern renovations, including the iconic Big Bank terrace - the largest standing terrace in the Football League - blend the ground’s historic character with contemporary facilities. As a fortress for the Grecians and a hub for the community, St James Park remains a cherished landmark in Exeter’s sporting history.

Exeter City return to  St James Park on Saturday, November 30, taking on Chesterfield in the second round of the Emirates FA Cup at 3:00pm. Tickets are now on general sale for what promises to be another thrilling encounter.

Following that, the Grecians return to Sky Bet League One action on Tuesday, December 3, hosting high-flying Wycombe Wanderers in a 7:45pm kick-off under the lights. Be sure to secure your spot and support the team!

For tickets and more updates, click here.