Olly Jones, a 16-year-old from Solihull, has gained attention for his unique approach to football by touring stadiums across the UK to review their matchday food.
The Birmingham City supporter, a sixth form student, created the Half Time Scran social media page where he shares his evaluations of the grub available at various football clubs. While he was not initially passionate about football, Olly’s interest grew after realising how food enhances the live matchday experience.
He explained that each club often has its own distinctive culinary culture. “With West Ham, you might think pie and mash, whereas with Blues you would think balti pies,” he said.
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Olly recounted that his enthusiasm for football and food blossomed during the 2023-24 season as he began enjoying matchday meals with his family. A visit to Solihull Moors in December 2024 sparked his desire to explore more stadiums and their offerings.
Among the highlights of his food adventures, Olly mentioned trying chicken parmigiana at Middlesbrough, describing it as a “pretty weird experience” due to its combination of chicken, cheese, and béchamel sauce, but ultimately found it “absolutely amazing.”
He also praised the food at MK Dons, a club not often visited by fans due to its reputation as a franchise, for the quality of its butter chicken. Regarding his home club, he said, “With Blues, I have a relationship with Charlie’s Fried Chicken and I would say it’s some of the best chicken I’ve ever had. I’m unbiased but I would put Birmingham City above most clubs I’ve been to for food so far.”
On the other hand, not all meals impressed him. He recalled having a sausage roll at Burton Albion that he described as “a bit dry” and like “sawdust,” rating it a low two out of ten.
Olly emphasised how football brings people together, not only with family but also through forming a community with friends at the stadium. He credits his friends Flo Coogan and Sam Spooner for their support in running his channel.
Half Time Scran continues to attract followers who appreciate a fresh perspective on football culture by focusing on the culinary side of matchdays.