GreenFox TalbotMid Sussex Royal
Did you go? Believe we got a draw and won the replay 6-1...and set up a 4th round tie with Arsenal who were double winnners then, Charlie George and co
I was there. Epic journey. Train left about 5am. Awash with beer by Newcastle where we get into can throwing fight with Hereford fans. Alighted further north (!) at a place called Cramlington, two coaches at a time. Put on motor coaches for Blyth which didn’t have a station or much else.
KO 2.15pm I think because of dispute over their floodlights. Atmosphere hostile but not violent. Their grandstand had burnt down so no seats anywhere. Players changed in public park over the road I think. Terraces made of coal dust. Ground packed. Their mascot, gnarled old geezer playing the Kingsley role, thrown out by the police.
We’re winning easy as the light fades. 2-0. Floodlights not allowed! Near the end they get one back then another in last minute darkness, direct from a corner, Death didn’t see it IIRC, kitchen sink, mad Geordie passion everywhere, we just hang for draw and replay. Repeat long journey home in reverse arriving god knows what time. Magic of the the cup.
Replay a quite different story.
...heh heh and if you thought Blyth was a tough gig read the report of the 0-18 at Preston in 1894 in the Lost Years of Reading FC. Magic of the cup, my arse.