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Last Updated:  Sunday, 25 August, 2002, 14:32 GMT 15:32 UK
Sharks: Heywood Road
Heywood Road
Capacity: 4,800

Heywood Rd is the cramped home of Sale, the union team that has defied the critics to flourish in league territory.

The grandstand is a neat affair, running opposite the Jim Birtles terrace, a rickety shack that wouldn't look out of place in a Sunday league ground.

Needless to say, Heywood Rd isn't all that impressive, but it does have a homely feel, and adequately copes with Sale's average attendance of 4000 or so.

The bar in the clubhouse isn't bad either.

  • Where to stand/sit?

      Grab a seat in the grandstand, close to food, bars and toilets.

      The Jim Birtles and temporary seating are definitely for those who can't get into the main areas.

  • Pubs to visit:

      The Little B. Once famous for its sunken pool table, the Little B is now a reasonably smart and large pub, excellent for proximity to the ground. (1 min)

      The Brook. Next to Brooklands metro station, this is a small but friendly venue, sure to fill up quickly on match-days. (5 min)

      Brooklands Tap. Across the road from the Brook, and although its nothing special on the outside, it's a cosy place and the staff are very friendly. (5 min)

  • Restaurants:

      Sale is only a 15 minute ride out of Manchester, so it's worth having a look round the city centre and eating there, but if you want a bite close to the ground try these...

      Choy Hing (0161 9766688) and Hannis (0161 9736606), a mediterranean joint, are both recommended by the locals.

      There are also Indian and Chinese takeaways next to the Little B, on Marsland Rd.

  • Top tip

      If travelling by the excellent metro, remember to get off at Brooklands, NOT Sale, as this adds a good 15 minute walk onto your journey.

  • Directions:

      Car: Take the A56 from Manchester, turn left onto the A6144 (Marsland Rd), crossing the canal and metro lines. Heywood Rd is half a mile onwards o the right.

      From M60, leave at J6 and take the B5166 into Sale.

      Train: The metro runs from Manchester Piccadilly station, and costs around �2.50 RTN. Expect the journey to take 20 mins, more if Manchester United are playing.

  • Did you know?

      Sale are considering a move to Maine Rd, located in Manchester's notorious Moss-side area, once Manchester City move out in 2002.

  • What to do with the other half who hates Rugby?

      Since the IRA bomb in the mid 90s, Manchester has seen a massive amount of money poured into the centre, and is an impressive place to visit.

      Most of the shopping is located near the Arndale centre. For those interested in socks, Manchester boasts the largest Marks and Spencers in the country.

      Museum of Science and Industry. Acclaimed museum with loads of interactive elements for the kids.

      Admitted - this is a rugby review, but your kids may hate the sport. In which case, the Manchester United tour at Old Trafford is the place to go. Your wallet will love the enormous mega-store too.

  • Prices:

      �4-17

  • Contact details:

      Club: 0161 2831861



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