If you are on the train & want a pre match pint You might as well forget it unless you are willing to pose as a "shopper". Police will be rounding up anyone who looks vaguely like a football fan at the station & "escorting" them to the ground. If memory serves you can get a beer in the ground, but if you want freedom of choice, I suggest you pose as a shopper & head as if you're going to The Moor / city centre. My tip if you're gonna get a compulsary escort would be to approach a policeman & ask for directions to The Moor / suitable Christmas shopping area. (you can then slip the escort & you'll not be too far away from the ground if you're at The Moor). Forget your colours if you want a beer near the ground. Can't really suggest a pub - I'm going to one far side from station. Earl Grey is ok near station, not sure about the others - all look a bit rough to me.
