Real Betis Peña - Trip to Seville

After the previous article written up, talking about the plan on 3 Spartan fans visiting the Spanish city of Seville, they have been and returned with a great experience with them. The three, Alan & Ciara McLean, and Simon Needham, are all members of the "Blyth Betis Peña Betica" - a group aimed at building links and friendship between fans of the two clubs, based on their green and white striped tradition.

They were invited to a game against Celta Vigo on Sunday 12th May under a scheme where Real Betis dedicates each of its home games to a different peña betica or local supporters group.

Simon Needham, secretary said "This was a fantastic experience for all three of us. We travelled to Seville not knowing what to expect, but the welcome we were given by the Real Betis fans was as warm as the weather!"

"Their hospitality was second to none. We were invited to a BBQ with around 60 other Betis fans, and everyone was interested to learn about us, and the "green and white striped" link with Blyth."

"Possibly the highlight of the afternoon was being presented with a giant "Paella" meal, which everyone enjoyed."

After this large meal with the Betis fans; they headed off to the match, which Real Betis won one nil. They were able to present the club a Blyth Spartans shirt plus receiving scarves and flags from the Spanish hosts. The Seville side were also given official certificates commemorating the visit. Simon added "We also met a number of fans in the bar after the game, and we hope that this is just the start of building links and friendships between supporters of the two clubs."

Overall it seemed like the three of them really enjoyed their trip over to Spain to boost their knowledge and experience of being involved as an official Peña.