The EFL’s title sponsor Sky Bet are kicking off the new season by giving every single travelling Derby County fan a free drink at the Stadium of Light this evening.
The Rams play Sunderland in the opening game of the 2017/18 EFL season tonight and as part of Sky Bet’s Away Days initiative, all fans will be entitled to a pint or soft drink alternative in the away concourse.
Vouchers will be distributed by staff by the turnstiles on the inside of the stadium which can be redeemed for a selection of hot or cold beverages.
The Away Days campaign aims to improve the matchday experience for thousands of travelling fans in the EFL this season.
Sky Bet Sponsorship Manager David Tweed said: “We’re delighted that another season of EFL football upon us, we can’t wait to get going.
“We wanted to say a huge ‘cheers’ to the Derby fans who made it up on the opening Friday, to let them know that we appreciate their effort, and acknowledge that fans like them make the EFL what it is – the most exciting and passion-filled league in the world.”
Derby manager Gary Rowett said: "This is terrific initiative for our travelling supporters. We have a really loyal fanbase who follow us wherever we go and there will be almost 2,000 Rams at The Stadium of Light for the game.
“A free drink, courtesy of Sky Bet, will help them roar us on."
EFL CEO Shaun Harvey said: “The opening day of the Sky Bet EFL season is an exciting day for all football fans, and it’s fitting that Away supporters are set to be rewarded for putting the miles – and the hours – into supporting their team on their travels.
“Away days can involve long journeys at different times of the day and I’m sure Derby fans will welcome being the first club to be recognised through the campaign as they make their way up to the Stadium of Light. I look forward to seeing how supporters of all 72 Clubs will be recognised as the season progresses.”