A brief history of the grounds that Boro have occupied since their formation in 1876.
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Ayresome Park was Boro's home for 92 years between 1903 and 1995, after which they moved to the magnificent purpose built Riverside Stadium. Prior to moving into Ayresome Park they occupied a number of sites around the town. For additional information about Ayresome Park visit Ayresome Park.co.uk.
1995, Riverside Stadium
The Riverside Stadium was opened on 26 Aug. 1995. Chelsea were the visitors and returned to the capital pointless after a comfortable 2-0 win for the Boro. It soon became apparent that the 30,000 seats were not enough and work began on filling in the two open corners. They were ready for the start of the 1998-99 season and increased the capacity to around 35,000.
1903-1995, Ayresome Park
The outbreak of WW II was probably the greatest factor against Boro, after establishing themselves as a top 10 side, the war broke up possibly the best ever Boro team which included the great George Camsell, at the end of his career, Micky Fenton in his prime, a young up and coming lad called Wilfred James Mannion and of course the future captain of England, George Hardwick. Ayresome Park finally closed it's gates on League football on 30 Apr. 1995 after an anxious 2-1 victory over Luton Town, which guaranteed promotion to the Premier League. Ayresome Park was the scene of many great occasions and magnificent goals. Some of the worlds greatest players would grace the hallowed turf, for and against Boro. It hosted three games in the 1966 World Cup, including North Korea's memorable defeat of mighty Italy. Amazingly Boro were never to take home a major trophy to Ayresome, some mystics believing a gypsy curse was to blame. The nearest Boro came to being Champions was back in 1913-14 when they finished 3rd.
1882-1903, Linthorpe Road Ground
The Linthorpe Road Ground saw the first four-figure crowd and in due course the first league game in 1899. Crowds in excess of 10,000 were soon common place so plans to move to a bigger home, Ayresome Park, were put in place. After only one season in Division 1 they moved to Ayresome Park.
1879-1882, Breckon Hill Road
Fans were charged 3d admission to Breckon Hill, the average takings being under £3.
1877-1879, The Old Archery Ground, Albert Park
The Old Archery Ground in Albert Park was the place where the first historic game took place against Tees Wanderers, a local rugby union side. It ended in a 1-1 draw. It wasn't long before Boro were attracting crowds of around 200, resulting in the local Parks Committee asking the club to find an alternative home, after fans spilling onto the pitch caused damage to the turf.
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