Lilly and her dad are big fans of football and love supporting their local team, watching matches on the TV. Lilly even has a poster in her bedroom of her favourite player! One day, Dad surprises Lilly with tickets to watch their team play in a big match and Lilly is over the moon.

Dad tries to prepare Lilly for the sights, sounds and smells of the stadium, but Lilly is too excited to listen. When they arrive Lilly starts to feel anxious and needs to leave the stand, but Dad has forgotten her headphones. Feeling overwhelmed, Lilly runs away. Luckily, she, together with Myles and Dad, run into a very important
person who knows just how to help!

Books by Jon Roberts and Hannah Rounding:

Through the Eyes of Me

Through the Eyes of Us

See What I Can Do!

Jon Roberts is the author of three previous titles from Graffeg, Through the Eyes of Me, Through the Eyes of Us and See What I Can Do!. They explore the life experiences of his daughter Kya, who has severe autism, and her friends; introducing children to the condition and the nuances of Kya’s character, as well as a number of other disabilities. Jon is based in Swansea.

Hannah Rounding is a freelance artist and illustrator based in Cardigan, West Wales. Hannah uses art as a tool to improve personal and community wellbeing, with experience working in the UK charity sector and over 10 years working within International Development, while her freelance work combines a wide variety of community arts projects alongside commissioned illustration work. Her work with Graffeg includes illustrations for the picture books Through the Eyes of Me and Through the Eyes of Us, the previous two titles by Jon Roberts, and What Can You See? by Jason Korsner.

Match days should be exciting for everyone, and Disabled Supporters Associations (DSAs) are proud to help make that possible! Sensory rooms provide a welcoming space with bean bags, fidget toys, and calming features to help young fans feel safe and comfortable. While not all stadiums have sensory rooms or a clear view of the pitch, they do offer ways for fans to enjoy live football at their own pace. Lilly and Myles: The Match is a fantastic way to prepare little ones for their first game, easing any worries and making match day an experience they can look forward to!'

Cath Dyer Secretary, Swansea City AFC Disabled Supporters Association

“Lilly and Myles: The Match perfectly highlights the crucial role assistance dogs play and the importance of sensory spaces at live sports events. This heartwarming story offers hope for children like Lilly, encouraging them to experience the thrill of attending a local sports match while knowing that facilities are available to support their needs. Jonathan beautifully captures the challenges faced by sports fans with sensory processing needs, presenting them in an easy-to-understand way for a younger audience. Books like this play a significant role in breaking down the stigma surrounding supporters with disabilities and accessing live sports. It’s a wonderful resource for educating the younger generation about the daily struggles many face in what is often a simple, enjoyable experience for the majority of supporters.”  

Courtney Allerton – Disability Liaison Officer at Stoke City Football Club.

Lilly & Myles: The Match is a fantastic story that highlights the challenges autistic fans can face at football matches and the importance of making stadiums more welcoming for everyone. It’s a wonderful way to help young children understand autism and how small changes can make a big difference in making football truly accessible for all.

Rhiannon Beth "Razza" Roberts - Welsh Football player