Tangled up in Blue
Certified Senior Citizen⭐🦐
Imagine you're talking about the infamous game where Ian Leask (AKA Leasky) charged on the Lincoln fans by himself? (I wasn't there but I heard about it from people who were).
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Memory Lane 50 Years ago Today- 1971-72 Promotion Season - Wednesday 3 May 1972 - We finish as runners up! - Southend United 2 Gillingham 2
- Thread starter LBBlue
- Start date
LCBB72
Manager ⭐🦐
About a dozen Leigh went , John and Charlie Welham 'The Twins' , Dave Colins , Pete Masalanka and a few others . I know they spent the night before the game sleeping on a couple boats on the beach . When they were walking to the ground they saw about 50 Southport hanging around . When the Leigh Boys saw the Southport who were abot 50 yards ahead of them , Southport seeing the Leigh Boys started to leg it , the Leigh Boys chased them into the car park at the ground where the Southend players were just getting of there coach . Dave Collins shouted to the players 'where they gone' to which Gary Moore shouted out 'they ran round that corner' . After chasing them up the road Southport were not seen anymore that day . What great days we had .
LBBlue
Manager⭐
Easter Monday 3rd April 1972 - Southport 0 Southend United 1
Our 3rd of the three games in 4 days was away at Southport, the serene seaside resort just north of Liverpool, home to Liverpool and Everton footballers.
Southport had started the season well and after 14 games were 1 point clear at the top of the table.
However they had sold the player who got them there, Tony Field to Blackburn Rovers for £50k. Field had scored 10 goals in 12 +1s games. They replaced him when they re-signed 31 year old Jim Fryatt, known as Pancho! Jim got just 7 goals in 30 games as his powers were waning and Southport couldn’t keep up with the top 5. However, the next season he helped them win the 4th Division title.
Jim of course played for us between 60/61 and 62/63 before he left for Bradford PA, where he went into the record books when in April 64 he scored the fastest ever goal in the Football League recorded as just 4 seconds from the start of the game. Think Freddie against Swansea and almost half the time! Jim was just short of his 20th birthday when he made his debut for us and scored a not too shabby 16 times in 31 games. The second season didn’t go as well as he played only 18 times, the last 9 of which were at right back. In 62/63 after we signed Mike Beesley he played even less and was allowed to leave at the end of the season.
He ended up playing in just over 500 League games scoring 189 goals. He eventually retired in 1975 and went to America where he stayed until he passed away in June 2000. I’m sure he scored against us more than once – paying us back for when he was booed when he was announced as a team change before a game 60 odd years ago.
As for the game – it wasn’t that great. We were unchanged from Saturday with Gary Moore playing on one leg. The back four of Ternent, Albeson Jacques and Smith were playing their 20th consecutive game together and after Gary Moore scored in the first half we get a 1-0 win. Gary was replaced by Spud Taylor and missed the next two games.
With 8 games left we had 51 points. Brentford and Lincoln had both dropped points – surely we couldn’t slip up this time.
The drive back to Southend seemed to last for ever, not a lot of M6 in 1972. The Away Club coaches left at 5.30 am charging a princely £1.50. You could get 3 gallons of petrol for a quid -those were the days!
We were playing again in 4 days time Friday evening at home to Reading.
Our 3rd of the three games in 4 days was away at Southport, the serene seaside resort just north of Liverpool, home to Liverpool and Everton footballers.
Southport had started the season well and after 14 games were 1 point clear at the top of the table.
However they had sold the player who got them there, Tony Field to Blackburn Rovers for £50k. Field had scored 10 goals in 12 +1s games. They replaced him when they re-signed 31 year old Jim Fryatt, known as Pancho! Jim got just 7 goals in 30 games as his powers were waning and Southport couldn’t keep up with the top 5. However, the next season he helped them win the 4th Division title.
Jim of course played for us between 60/61 and 62/63 before he left for Bradford PA, where he went into the record books when in April 64 he scored the fastest ever goal in the Football League recorded as just 4 seconds from the start of the game. Think Freddie against Swansea and almost half the time! Jim was just short of his 20th birthday when he made his debut for us and scored a not too shabby 16 times in 31 games. The second season didn’t go as well as he played only 18 times, the last 9 of which were at right back. In 62/63 after we signed Mike Beesley he played even less and was allowed to leave at the end of the season.
He ended up playing in just over 500 League games scoring 189 goals. He eventually retired in 1975 and went to America where he stayed until he passed away in June 2000. I’m sure he scored against us more than once – paying us back for when he was booed when he was announced as a team change before a game 60 odd years ago.
As for the game – it wasn’t that great. We were unchanged from Saturday with Gary Moore playing on one leg. The back four of Ternent, Albeson Jacques and Smith were playing their 20th consecutive game together and after Gary Moore scored in the first half we get a 1-0 win. Gary was replaced by Spud Taylor and missed the next two games.
With 8 games left we had 51 points. Brentford and Lincoln had both dropped points – surely we couldn’t slip up this time.
The drive back to Southend seemed to last for ever, not a lot of M6 in 1972. The Away Club coaches left at 5.30 am charging a princely £1.50. You could get 3 gallons of petrol for a quid -those were the days!
We were playing again in 4 days time Friday evening at home to Reading.
sufc_statto
Newbie
Monday April 03, 1972 - Division 4
Southport (0) 0
Southend Utd (1) 1 (Moore 27')
Venue: Haig Avenue, Southport. KO: 3.00
Attendance: 3,320
Southport: A Taylor, D Turner, B Sibbald, J McPhee, C Dunleavy, G Sharples, F Lee, A Peat, J Fryatt, S Arnold (F Goodwin), B Hartle.
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Booth, B Albeson, J Jacques, D Elliott, B Best, T Johnson, G Moore (P Taylor 73'), P Woods.
Match Report
After a day's rest on Sunday, the battle for Fourth Division honours was carried on again on Monday, United carrying the war to Haig Avenue. And once again they emerged as full-grown men as the opposition tried to knock them out of the race.
But this time they had to pay the penalty of a bad injury to Gary Moore. The stout-hearted striker, who netted United's winner in the first half, was crunched down from behind late in the second half and hobbled off with an ankle injury that looked quite serious, writes Alf Smirk.
Once again, United were happy to contain the opposition then rely on quick breaks to build chances. These may have been rare, but one of them 1ed to that vital winner.
Taking advantage of the wind, Blues had created most of the early opportunities, Billy Best and Terry Johnson having efforts go wide before they surged forward again after 27 minutes. Peter Woods hit his shot from just outside the area and Moore quickly latched on to the rebound to fire past Alan Taylor.
Taylor made the save of the game minutes later when he somehow got to a Best shot which, was deflected by a defender to turn the ball around a post.
Moore was booked shortly before half-time by Wolverhampton referee, Ken Wynn, but Southport’s John McPhee, who seemed equally guilty the affray got off scot-free.
Blues had only about two real attacks after the interval Southport. took advantage of the strong wind to chase long balls down the middle. Best just failed to reach a Moore cross two minutes after the restart and Johnson shot wide minutes from the end after a long run down the left.
In-between, United's defence had again been in great form and Derek Bellotti had few direct shots to deal with. He still took something of a bashing as the Southport forwards challenged him for everything.
Fred Goodwin replaced Steve Arnold for Southport and Dave Elliott was booked after a handling offence which must have caused some comment before Moore was scythed down from behind by George Sharples. Three minutes of treatment from trainer Lawrie Leslie failed to get him back in the game and Spud Taylor took over.
Sharples went a little too far 10 minutes later when he would have booted Johnson into the stand if he had connected and this time hits name was also added to the list offenders.
Although understandably having most of the attacking during the second half, Southport rarely looked like equalising. Bellotti dropping quickly on to an Arthur Peat shot being about their only threat.
This was due almost entirely to skipper Joe Jacques’ marshalling of a United defence which wouldn’t give an inch.
This was a well organised United performance and once they went in front they seemed confident Southport would never get on terms, With two crunch games in three days, I only hope they all survive and that Bill Garner is fit again when they resume activities against Reading at Roots Hall on Friday evening.
League Table
Fourth Division Results
Southport (0) 0
Southend Utd (1) 1 (Moore 27')
Venue: Haig Avenue, Southport. KO: 3.00
Attendance: 3,320
Southport: A Taylor, D Turner, B Sibbald, J McPhee, C Dunleavy, G Sharples, F Lee, A Peat, J Fryatt, S Arnold (F Goodwin), B Hartle.
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Booth, B Albeson, J Jacques, D Elliott, B Best, T Johnson, G Moore (P Taylor 73'), P Woods.
Match Report
After a day's rest on Sunday, the battle for Fourth Division honours was carried on again on Monday, United carrying the war to Haig Avenue. And once again they emerged as full-grown men as the opposition tried to knock them out of the race.
But this time they had to pay the penalty of a bad injury to Gary Moore. The stout-hearted striker, who netted United's winner in the first half, was crunched down from behind late in the second half and hobbled off with an ankle injury that looked quite serious, writes Alf Smirk.
Once again, United were happy to contain the opposition then rely on quick breaks to build chances. These may have been rare, but one of them 1ed to that vital winner.
Taking advantage of the wind, Blues had created most of the early opportunities, Billy Best and Terry Johnson having efforts go wide before they surged forward again after 27 minutes. Peter Woods hit his shot from just outside the area and Moore quickly latched on to the rebound to fire past Alan Taylor.
Taylor made the save of the game minutes later when he somehow got to a Best shot which, was deflected by a defender to turn the ball around a post.
Moore was booked shortly before half-time by Wolverhampton referee, Ken Wynn, but Southport’s John McPhee, who seemed equally guilty the affray got off scot-free.
Blues had only about two real attacks after the interval Southport. took advantage of the strong wind to chase long balls down the middle. Best just failed to reach a Moore cross two minutes after the restart and Johnson shot wide minutes from the end after a long run down the left.
In-between, United's defence had again been in great form and Derek Bellotti had few direct shots to deal with. He still took something of a bashing as the Southport forwards challenged him for everything.
Fred Goodwin replaced Steve Arnold for Southport and Dave Elliott was booked after a handling offence which must have caused some comment before Moore was scythed down from behind by George Sharples. Three minutes of treatment from trainer Lawrie Leslie failed to get him back in the game and Spud Taylor took over.
Sharples went a little too far 10 minutes later when he would have booted Johnson into the stand if he had connected and this time hits name was also added to the list offenders.
Although understandably having most of the attacking during the second half, Southport rarely looked like equalising. Bellotti dropping quickly on to an Arthur Peat shot being about their only threat.
This was due almost entirely to skipper Joe Jacques’ marshalling of a United defence which wouldn’t give an inch.
This was a well organised United performance and once they went in front they seemed confident Southport would never get on terms, With two crunch games in three days, I only hope they all survive and that Bill Garner is fit again when they resume activities against Reading at Roots Hall on Friday evening.
League Table
Fourth Division Results
LCBB72
Manager ⭐🦐
Ternant , Albeson , Jacques and Smith perhaps the best ever back line Southend United have ever had .
ozzie
Manager
On "The Brothers" coach on the way home, i again thought for the umpteenth time that this could be our season....then for the umpteenth time i remembered 67-68,when i was sure(like most fans)we were going up,especially after our 7-0 hammering v of Workington.
Easter was crunch time" one"...we done very well,now comes the real crunch time "two"
Easter was crunch time" one"...we done very well,now comes the real crunch time "two"
LBBlue
Manager⭐
They certainly did well in 71/72.
I’d chuck 2 more back fours in
Stead, Cusack, Moody, Yates
and my favourite
Austin, Scully, Prior, Powell.
LBBlue
Manager⭐
Friday 7th April 1972 - Southend United 4 Reading 1
Just 16 days after we had beaten Reading 4-1 at Elm Park in a re-arranged fixture we had the home game against them for our 4th game in 8 days.
Gary More had been crocked at Southport and Bernie Lewis was now out of favour, so we had two changes from side that won at Reading with Terry Johnson and Dave Elliott having returned to fitness. Reading had made a couple of changes as well but it didn't make much difference as we stuffed them 4-1 again. 2 goals each for Johnson and Garner to extend the unbeaten run to 11 games as we scored 4 for the 4th time in that run.
13,252 were there cheering us on. Two away games coming up in the next week - a rearranged game at Northampton and a Friday night in Stockport.
Just 16 days after we had beaten Reading 4-1 at Elm Park in a re-arranged fixture we had the home game against them for our 4th game in 8 days.
Gary More had been crocked at Southport and Bernie Lewis was now out of favour, so we had two changes from side that won at Reading with Terry Johnson and Dave Elliott having returned to fitness. Reading had made a couple of changes as well but it didn't make much difference as we stuffed them 4-1 again. 2 goals each for Johnson and Garner to extend the unbeaten run to 11 games as we scored 4 for the 4th time in that run.
13,252 were there cheering us on. Two away games coming up in the next week - a rearranged game at Northampton and a Friday night in Stockport.
sufc_statto
Newbie
Friday April 07, 1972 - Division 4
Southend Utd (1) 4 (Johnson 7', 86', Garner 53', 78')
Reading (1) 1 (Cumming 31' pen)
Venue: Roots Hall KO: 7.30
Attendance: 13,252
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, D Booth, P Woods (P Taylor 75').
Reading: S Death, W Dixon, M James (S Hetzke 54'), J Harley, P Archer, T Wagstaff, B Wagstaff, G Cumming, P Harman, T Bell, D Habbin.
Match Report
Whether by design or coincidence, the introduction of teenager Spud Taylor late in the second half new infuse new life into this game which was gradually dying at Roots Hall on Friday night. Let's face it, although 2-1 up at the time, United were still being forced to struggle to to hang on to their lead against a team which had little to offer. But Taylor's emergence from the substitute's bench as Peter Woods was called off, not only made the night for the 13,252 spectators, but led to a Bues' revival which added two more goals and enhanced their promotion prospects, writes Älf Smirk.
Taylor, fresh and fit as a fiddle, led the opposition a merry dance and looked as though was enjoying every minute of it. His centre in the 77th minute gave Bill Garner the opportunity to volley in his 21st league goal of the season, and it was Taylor again who gave Garner the opportunity to cross for Terry Johnson to' complete the scoring four minutes from the end.
Johnson had given United the lead in seventh minute when a Woods link-up with Ray Ternent saw the latter's centre hammered in from short range. But this was nullified right on half-hour when Jacques brought down Gordon Cumming in the penalty area and Cumming pelted in the spot-kick.
It took Blues just six minutes after the interval to regain their lead. A Billy Best long ball into the middle was touched just enough by Garner to divert the ball past Steve Death.
Reading brought on Peter Hetzke for the injured Martin James after 54 minutes and the visitors actually became more aggressive, but although they had a brief spell of possession which kept United on the go, they never really posed a serious threat.
This was due to the continued strength of United at the back. At one time earlier in this season they went through a very shaky patch, but have more than proved their worth over these last few games.
However temporarily it may have been, this took United into joint leadership of the Fourth Division, They have had a magnificent run of 11 games, from which they have collected 20 points. And this win on Friday gave them a new record of 17 wins in a season, the best ever in the 45 seasons they have been playing League football.
Reading serious effort in the second half When Derek Bellotti made a tremendous save from a Peter Harman header. They also had Phil Archer booked for an over-robust tackle before Taylor came on the scene.
Taylor’s appearance changed the whole context of the proceedings. One must give manager Arthur Rowley credit for what could only have been a tactical substitution and it paid great dividends.
There are still a lot of chickens to be counted before promotion is finally hatched, but as I said last week, fate is in their own hands. And on this display, still not over-counting the chickens, I would say it is getting near the time to put the champagne on ice!
Gary Moore failed to overcome his ankle injury received at Southport, but with Garner back in middle the striking power up front was as as powerful as ever. They are still not making a great deal of chances up front, but at least they are converting most which arise.
Dave Elliott’s return to midfield has also given United more authority in the middle of the park. Blues are a much better balanced side than they have been at any stage of the season.
And much more important, they are an playing their guts out and giving everything. This is the sort of spirit which will help them to overcome the last few matches of the season!
League Table
Southend Utd (1) 4 (Johnson 7', 86', Garner 53', 78')
Reading (1) 1 (Cumming 31' pen)
Venue: Roots Hall KO: 7.30
Attendance: 13,252
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, D Booth, P Woods (P Taylor 75').
Reading: S Death, W Dixon, M James (S Hetzke 54'), J Harley, P Archer, T Wagstaff, B Wagstaff, G Cumming, P Harman, T Bell, D Habbin.
Match Report
Whether by design or coincidence, the introduction of teenager Spud Taylor late in the second half new infuse new life into this game which was gradually dying at Roots Hall on Friday night. Let's face it, although 2-1 up at the time, United were still being forced to struggle to to hang on to their lead against a team which had little to offer. But Taylor's emergence from the substitute's bench as Peter Woods was called off, not only made the night for the 13,252 spectators, but led to a Bues' revival which added two more goals and enhanced their promotion prospects, writes Älf Smirk.
Taylor, fresh and fit as a fiddle, led the opposition a merry dance and looked as though was enjoying every minute of it. His centre in the 77th minute gave Bill Garner the opportunity to volley in his 21st league goal of the season, and it was Taylor again who gave Garner the opportunity to cross for Terry Johnson to' complete the scoring four minutes from the end.
Johnson had given United the lead in seventh minute when a Woods link-up with Ray Ternent saw the latter's centre hammered in from short range. But this was nullified right on half-hour when Jacques brought down Gordon Cumming in the penalty area and Cumming pelted in the spot-kick.
It took Blues just six minutes after the interval to regain their lead. A Billy Best long ball into the middle was touched just enough by Garner to divert the ball past Steve Death.
Reading brought on Peter Hetzke for the injured Martin James after 54 minutes and the visitors actually became more aggressive, but although they had a brief spell of possession which kept United on the go, they never really posed a serious threat.
This was due to the continued strength of United at the back. At one time earlier in this season they went through a very shaky patch, but have more than proved their worth over these last few games.
However temporarily it may have been, this took United into joint leadership of the Fourth Division, They have had a magnificent run of 11 games, from which they have collected 20 points. And this win on Friday gave them a new record of 17 wins in a season, the best ever in the 45 seasons they have been playing League football.
Reading serious effort in the second half When Derek Bellotti made a tremendous save from a Peter Harman header. They also had Phil Archer booked for an over-robust tackle before Taylor came on the scene.
Taylor’s appearance changed the whole context of the proceedings. One must give manager Arthur Rowley credit for what could only have been a tactical substitution and it paid great dividends.
There are still a lot of chickens to be counted before promotion is finally hatched, but as I said last week, fate is in their own hands. And on this display, still not over-counting the chickens, I would say it is getting near the time to put the champagne on ice!
Gary Moore failed to overcome his ankle injury received at Southport, but with Garner back in middle the striking power up front was as as powerful as ever. They are still not making a great deal of chances up front, but at least they are converting most which arise.
Dave Elliott’s return to midfield has also given United more authority in the middle of the park. Blues are a much better balanced side than they have been at any stage of the season.
And much more important, they are an playing their guts out and giving everything. This is the sort of spirit which will help them to overcome the last few matches of the season!
League Table
Tangled up in Blue
Certified Senior Citizen⭐🦐
Think It would have been that game against Northampton when mfurok paid me a suprise visit in Brum with his then girlfriend C to stay overnight.Are you sure that wasn't a Friday night game?
LBBlue
Manager⭐
Northampton away was definitely a Tuesday evening in the Easter holidays - the home game was played the following Monday.
sufc_statto
Newbie
Here is the match programme for the Reading game (Part 1).
Tangled up in Blue
Certified Senior Citizen⭐🦐
Could be my memory's playing tricks but I remember that R& C slept in a room that would have normally only been unoccupied from Friday night,when my respective flatmates often went away for the weekend.Or could have been that they were both away in the Easter hols.I suppose.
Last edited:
sufc_statto
Newbie
Programme (Part 2)
LBBlue
Manager⭐
Tuesday 11th April 1972 - Northampton Town 1 Southend United 1
Still the games came thick and fast with a Tuesday evening rearranged game at the County Ground Northampton. Northampton, like Sheffield United shared their ground with the County Cricket Club. The County Ground was effectively three sided - more like 2 1/2 sided with a small terrace behind one goal a temporary moveable terrace on the cricket out field.
At the end of January they were comfortably in the top half of the table just 3 points behind us. However, they had already sold top scorer Dixie NcNeill to Lincoln and then sold Lew Chatterley to Grimsby and it all went downhill, as it does when your best players leave, and were now 19 points behind us.
In their side they had Neil Rioch, brother of more famous Bruce and Trevor Gould, brother of more famous Bobby, together with a 22 year old centre half who would a year later join us - Neil Townsend. They also has 32 year old Frank Large in his third spell with them at Centre Forward. and 21 year old Phil Neal, later to play for Liverpool and England.
Despite their poor record they still had some decent players.
We were unchanged from Friday with Gary Moore still out injured. Billy Best returning to Northampton got our goal with Gould scoring for them. Another point on the road took us to 54 with 6 games to go. A small crowd of 3,604 were there.
Northampton ended up 4th from bottom, applying for re-election having won just 2 of their last 20 games.
Still the games came thick and fast with a Tuesday evening rearranged game at the County Ground Northampton. Northampton, like Sheffield United shared their ground with the County Cricket Club. The County Ground was effectively three sided - more like 2 1/2 sided with a small terrace behind one goal a temporary moveable terrace on the cricket out field.
At the end of January they were comfortably in the top half of the table just 3 points behind us. However, they had already sold top scorer Dixie NcNeill to Lincoln and then sold Lew Chatterley to Grimsby and it all went downhill, as it does when your best players leave, and were now 19 points behind us.
In their side they had Neil Rioch, brother of more famous Bruce and Trevor Gould, brother of more famous Bobby, together with a 22 year old centre half who would a year later join us - Neil Townsend. They also has 32 year old Frank Large in his third spell with them at Centre Forward. and 21 year old Phil Neal, later to play for Liverpool and England.
Despite their poor record they still had some decent players.
We were unchanged from Friday with Gary Moore still out injured. Billy Best returning to Northampton got our goal with Gould scoring for them. Another point on the road took us to 54 with 6 games to go. A small crowd of 3,604 were there.
Northampton ended up 4th from bottom, applying for re-election having won just 2 of their last 20 games.
sufc_statto
Newbie
Tuesday April 11, 1972 - Division 4
Northampton Town (0) 1 (Gould 49')
Southend Utd (0) 1 (Best 63')
Venue: County Ground, Northampton. KO: 7.30
Attendance: 3,604
Northampton Town: A Starling, J Clarke, A Oman, T Gould, N Rioch, B Heslop, G Felton, J Hold, F Large, J Kiernan, P Hawkins.
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, D Booth, P Woods (P Taylor 18').
Match Report
Yet another fighting display earned United one more precious promotion point at the County Ground on Tuesday night. It also took their unbeaten run to 12 games, from which they have collected 21 points, a truly magnificent run which, in itself, should guarantee them one of the top four spots if not the title outright, writes ALF SMIRK.
They have now created a gap themselves and two of the other clubs involved in the fight for a fourth spot, Brentford and Lincoln. And this gap could be invaluable as the clubs prepare for their final run-in.
It means that the other two clubs have got to win and United lose if the gap is to close.
There were times on Tuesday when United looked perilously near to losing their unbeaten run, especially when Trevor Gould headed Northampton in front four minutes after half-time from a Graham Felton corner.
It was a question of United not having done their homework and learned their lesson. Only a couple of' minutes earlier, Peter Hawkins had headed in another Felton corner. Guildford referee Mr. M. V. Sinclair had already awarded a goal when a linesman called his attention to an infringement and the point was disallowed
But for the rest, apart from some dangerous over-lapping runs by full back Alan Oman, Blues' defence contained the home attack very effectively.
On the two occasions they were torn apart, goalkeeper Derek Bellotti made fantastic saves. His first was from Frank Large shot right on the interval and the other a great reflex action in the second half to tip over a John Hold header.
Despite losing Peter Woods with an injury, following an earlier tackle from which Gould was booked, after only 18 minutes, United still created the best chance of the first half. Substitute Spud Taylor pin-pointed a perfect pass in front of Bill Garner but Garner hit the side netting with his final shot.
United, however, made certain of one point when they equalised after 63 mins. Terry Johnson raced clear on the right and Billy Best was on the spot to head in his centre.
It was fitting that Best should the scorer as he had one of his best games of the season against his former club. He got through a tremendous amount of work in mid-field yet still found time to help out up front.
The back four again gave little away and Brian Albeson kept a tight grip on Large, Town's most dangerous raider.
United boss Arthur Rowley is hoping he has no injury problems for the next two vital matches in four days which means that Gary Moore, who limped off at Southport on Easter Monday, could come into the reckoning for the fixtures at Stockport tomorrow (Fri) and against Northampton Town at. Roots Hall on Monday:
League Table
Northampton Town (0) 1 (Gould 49')
Southend Utd (0) 1 (Best 63')
Venue: County Ground, Northampton. KO: 7.30
Attendance: 3,604
Northampton Town: A Starling, J Clarke, A Oman, T Gould, N Rioch, B Heslop, G Felton, J Hold, F Large, J Kiernan, P Hawkins.
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, D Booth, P Woods (P Taylor 18').
Match Report
Yet another fighting display earned United one more precious promotion point at the County Ground on Tuesday night. It also took their unbeaten run to 12 games, from which they have collected 21 points, a truly magnificent run which, in itself, should guarantee them one of the top four spots if not the title outright, writes ALF SMIRK.
They have now created a gap themselves and two of the other clubs involved in the fight for a fourth spot, Brentford and Lincoln. And this gap could be invaluable as the clubs prepare for their final run-in.
It means that the other two clubs have got to win and United lose if the gap is to close.
There were times on Tuesday when United looked perilously near to losing their unbeaten run, especially when Trevor Gould headed Northampton in front four minutes after half-time from a Graham Felton corner.
It was a question of United not having done their homework and learned their lesson. Only a couple of' minutes earlier, Peter Hawkins had headed in another Felton corner. Guildford referee Mr. M. V. Sinclair had already awarded a goal when a linesman called his attention to an infringement and the point was disallowed
But for the rest, apart from some dangerous over-lapping runs by full back Alan Oman, Blues' defence contained the home attack very effectively.
On the two occasions they were torn apart, goalkeeper Derek Bellotti made fantastic saves. His first was from Frank Large shot right on the interval and the other a great reflex action in the second half to tip over a John Hold header.
Despite losing Peter Woods with an injury, following an earlier tackle from which Gould was booked, after only 18 minutes, United still created the best chance of the first half. Substitute Spud Taylor pin-pointed a perfect pass in front of Bill Garner but Garner hit the side netting with his final shot.
United, however, made certain of one point when they equalised after 63 mins. Terry Johnson raced clear on the right and Billy Best was on the spot to head in his centre.
It was fitting that Best should the scorer as he had one of his best games of the season against his former club. He got through a tremendous amount of work in mid-field yet still found time to help out up front.
The back four again gave little away and Brian Albeson kept a tight grip on Large, Town's most dangerous raider.
United boss Arthur Rowley is hoping he has no injury problems for the next two vital matches in four days which means that Gary Moore, who limped off at Southport on Easter Monday, could come into the reckoning for the fixtures at Stockport tomorrow (Fri) and against Northampton Town at. Roots Hall on Monday:
League Table
sufc_statto
Newbie
Friday April 14, 1972 - Division 4
Stockport County (0) 2 (Chapman 65' (pen}, Ryden 80')
Southend Utd (0) 2 (Johnson 60', Garner 90'+3')
Venue: Edgeley Park, Stockport. KO: 7.30
Attendance: 2,513
Stockport County: P Clarke, R Charter, D Renwick, I Lawther, P Hart, J Chapman, K Fogarty, S McMillan, M Brennan, K Webber, J Mulvaney (H Ryden).
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, G Moore, D Booth. Sub: P Taylor.
Match Report
Hero? Villain? Or maybe a little of each? In whichever of these roles you would like to cast United's Bill Garner, at least he couldn't be ignored at Edgeley Park last Friday night. He played a leading part in all four goals but, unfortunately, only two of them went down to United's account.
But by golly, he was involved in most of the action that went on, there were long periods of inactivity, and total involvement is one of the main ingredients that makes the difference between mediocrity and greatness.
And this was an involvement that carried United's unbeaten run to 13 games from which they have extracted 22 points, writes AIf Smirk.
There were times in this one when United appeared to have the result wrapped up, especially when they took the lead. But once County had levelled, then gone in front, it was a case of half a loaf being better than none at all. Being thankful for small mercies at this stage of the season, I would doubt if Manager Arthur Rowley or any of his Roots Hall disciples had any quibbles at the final result.
With Gary Moore back from injury to join Garner in the twin spearhead up front, United were always in command whenever they tried to string a few passes This was evident from the manner in which they netted goals.
On a dreary night of wind and rain and in front of a paltry crowd, Blues took 45 minutes to get in their first direct shot, a Best effort which went just wide. But Stockport in that muddle of a first half were none too impressive either. Only when Mulvaney sent a header inches wide did they look like the side which shocked. Blues’ promotion rivals Scunthorpe.
They were seldom allowed any real chances, for the Southend back four were on top form. It was in midfield that Blues were all at sea, with misplaced passes and a total failure to exploit the high wind at their backs.
Things were different in the second .half, and the man responsible was Bill Garner. Billy Best had shot just over and Terry Johnson had forced the ‘keeper to his knees with a fine ground shot.
In 56 minutes a Best effort went just over the bar after Garner had laid it off. Four minutes later Gary Moore burst out of defence and sent Garner off on a 40-yard gallop down the right. He looked to have lost the ball at the by-line, but managed to squeeze a hard, low cross across face of the goal. Terry Johnson lurking unmarked at the far post, smashed it in.
But Stockport were not finished; they started to put the pressure on with long high balls on the wind, plus some clever football.
This pressure brought Garner back in defence for a corner. And as Stockport’s Hart ran in, the big striker seemed to trip him in the box. Chapman scored from the penalty.
Fifteen minutes later Garner fouled a Stockport man 30 yards out and substitute Ryden gave Bellotti no chance with a rocket shot.
Now it was Blues turn to storm back, with Garner getting into the act again when he headed just wide after Albeson had nodded a corner forward to him.
In the 90th minute Blues won their first corner of the half, and in the 91st Albeson headed just over. And this was where referee Nicholson, who kept marvellous control, got into the act. For he added on six minutes for injury time, and time wasting, by both sides.
So it was that in the 93rd minute Garner scored one of the best goals I’ve seen for many a long day. He ran on to a precision pass from Dave Elliott, shimmied between two defenders on the edge of the box and smashed the past 'keeper Clark.
But, two great goals apart, Blues owe that point to their defence, in which Albeson and Booth were outstanding. Booth now really looks a valuable asset for Blues with his tireless running and excellent reading of the game. But whatever way you look at it, points away from home are like gold dust in the top five of the Fourth Division right now. And Blues go into Monday’s home game with Northampton just that vital bit richer.
League Table
Stockport County (0) 2 (Chapman 65' (pen}, Ryden 80')
Southend Utd (0) 2 (Johnson 60', Garner 90'+3')
Venue: Edgeley Park, Stockport. KO: 7.30
Attendance: 2,513
Stockport County: P Clarke, R Charter, D Renwick, I Lawther, P Hart, J Chapman, K Fogarty, S McMillan, M Brennan, K Webber, J Mulvaney (H Ryden).
Southend Utd: D Bellotti, R Ternent, A Smith, D Elliott, B Albeson, J Jacques, T Johnson, B Best, B Garner, G Moore, D Booth. Sub: P Taylor.
Match Report
Hero? Villain? Or maybe a little of each? In whichever of these roles you would like to cast United's Bill Garner, at least he couldn't be ignored at Edgeley Park last Friday night. He played a leading part in all four goals but, unfortunately, only two of them went down to United's account.
But by golly, he was involved in most of the action that went on, there were long periods of inactivity, and total involvement is one of the main ingredients that makes the difference between mediocrity and greatness.
And this was an involvement that carried United's unbeaten run to 13 games from which they have extracted 22 points, writes AIf Smirk.
There were times in this one when United appeared to have the result wrapped up, especially when they took the lead. But once County had levelled, then gone in front, it was a case of half a loaf being better than none at all. Being thankful for small mercies at this stage of the season, I would doubt if Manager Arthur Rowley or any of his Roots Hall disciples had any quibbles at the final result.
With Gary Moore back from injury to join Garner in the twin spearhead up front, United were always in command whenever they tried to string a few passes This was evident from the manner in which they netted goals.
On a dreary night of wind and rain and in front of a paltry crowd, Blues took 45 minutes to get in their first direct shot, a Best effort which went just wide. But Stockport in that muddle of a first half were none too impressive either. Only when Mulvaney sent a header inches wide did they look like the side which shocked. Blues’ promotion rivals Scunthorpe.
They were seldom allowed any real chances, for the Southend back four were on top form. It was in midfield that Blues were all at sea, with misplaced passes and a total failure to exploit the high wind at their backs.
Things were different in the second .half, and the man responsible was Bill Garner. Billy Best had shot just over and Terry Johnson had forced the ‘keeper to his knees with a fine ground shot.
In 56 minutes a Best effort went just over the bar after Garner had laid it off. Four minutes later Gary Moore burst out of defence and sent Garner off on a 40-yard gallop down the right. He looked to have lost the ball at the by-line, but managed to squeeze a hard, low cross across face of the goal. Terry Johnson lurking unmarked at the far post, smashed it in.
But Stockport were not finished; they started to put the pressure on with long high balls on the wind, plus some clever football.
This pressure brought Garner back in defence for a corner. And as Stockport’s Hart ran in, the big striker seemed to trip him in the box. Chapman scored from the penalty.
Fifteen minutes later Garner fouled a Stockport man 30 yards out and substitute Ryden gave Bellotti no chance with a rocket shot.
Now it was Blues turn to storm back, with Garner getting into the act again when he headed just wide after Albeson had nodded a corner forward to him.
In the 90th minute Blues won their first corner of the half, and in the 91st Albeson headed just over. And this was where referee Nicholson, who kept marvellous control, got into the act. For he added on six minutes for injury time, and time wasting, by both sides.
So it was that in the 93rd minute Garner scored one of the best goals I’ve seen for many a long day. He ran on to a precision pass from Dave Elliott, shimmied between two defenders on the edge of the box and smashed the past 'keeper Clark.
But, two great goals apart, Blues owe that point to their defence, in which Albeson and Booth were outstanding. Booth now really looks a valuable asset for Blues with his tireless running and excellent reading of the game. But whatever way you look at it, points away from home are like gold dust in the top five of the Fourth Division right now. And Blues go into Monday’s home game with Northampton just that vital bit richer.
League Table
LBBlue
Manager⭐
Friday 14th April 1972 - Stockport County 2 Southend United 2
This game was a bit of a novelty for me - Friday night just outside of Manchester - the only way I was going to get there was to go on the coach. So for the first time for since we got smashed 4-0 at Colchester in Nov 1968 I went on a coach! Actually the first time on an Away Club coach - so those of the regular coach goers I was the new boy. At least I could park in the club car park to get back to Hawkwell in the middle of the night.
Gary Moore was fit again and came in for Peter Woods in an otherwise unchanged line up.
Stockport were struggling, one off the bottom but had done us a favour winning 2-0 at Scunthorpe the week before. Sammy McMillan was still in their side and Phil Chisnall had played in their previous game but was left out of this. For both players this was their last playing League football - a sad end for them, as Stockport finished 2nd bottom and had a mass clear out of players. Chisnall was only 29 and MacMillan 30.
The old adage, "there is no easy game" proved true as we went into stoppage time 2-1 down and only a brilliant equaliser from Bill Garner got us the point and took the run to 13 games.
The referee in the photo (and in the programme) was Mr "roly poly" Roger Kirkpatrick for those who can remember his bald head and distinctive running style! We got all the top refs in Div 4 those days!
Still only 4 points separated the top 5 as we went into Monday evening's return fixture with Northampton. and another home game the following Friday - two wins and we'd be just about there as Lincoln had lost at home to Darlington on the Saturday.
My experience on the coach - a very cold trip home as we had fewer windows with glass in going home than when we got there. We were happy though!
This game was a bit of a novelty for me - Friday night just outside of Manchester - the only way I was going to get there was to go on the coach. So for the first time for since we got smashed 4-0 at Colchester in Nov 1968 I went on a coach! Actually the first time on an Away Club coach - so those of the regular coach goers I was the new boy. At least I could park in the club car park to get back to Hawkwell in the middle of the night.
Gary Moore was fit again and came in for Peter Woods in an otherwise unchanged line up.
Stockport were struggling, one off the bottom but had done us a favour winning 2-0 at Scunthorpe the week before. Sammy McMillan was still in their side and Phil Chisnall had played in their previous game but was left out of this. For both players this was their last playing League football - a sad end for them, as Stockport finished 2nd bottom and had a mass clear out of players. Chisnall was only 29 and MacMillan 30.
The old adage, "there is no easy game" proved true as we went into stoppage time 2-1 down and only a brilliant equaliser from Bill Garner got us the point and took the run to 13 games.
The referee in the photo (and in the programme) was Mr "roly poly" Roger Kirkpatrick for those who can remember his bald head and distinctive running style! We got all the top refs in Div 4 those days!
Still only 4 points separated the top 5 as we went into Monday evening's return fixture with Northampton. and another home game the following Friday - two wins and we'd be just about there as Lincoln had lost at home to Darlington on the Saturday.
My experience on the coach - a very cold trip home as we had fewer windows with glass in going home than when we got there. We were happy though!
ozzie
Manager
I was working in London then with a bloke who told me he was one of the North bank Arsenal leaders(TM) and he looked like he could have been another was a JOCK, a Dave Cunningham look alike...dodgy and long unwashed hair.
There was a few other young lads who i spoke to,telling them i was going to the Stockport v blues game.Come today,this friday they had a big job/thing going on and they asked me twice will i be turning up today coz they needed everybody on board,Someone had told him (the boss) i wasnt turning up,i told him both times yes...but i knew i was off to Stockport not work.
On the way to work monday i was warned i had been sacked..i did not care,what was more important..work or the Blues??
I was young, free (or at least up to the B&HA away game 1975 i was, until a miscarriage of justice!!! ment i missed a few months of our games) and single.
So i got the big"E" but got a job a couple of days later with i think a 50p a day more money..happy days.
As for the game i was also on Brothers coach.I stood in the paddock a few steps from some other Blues fans.
One Blues fan was MG,from Canvey maybe two years older than me..he was known after the Exeter away game as" Griff the whiff"....coz of his upset stomach!!!
As i wrote i was alone when three SCFC lads came up to me and started to give me stick,I didnt say anything,but the biggest lad,maybe 19, short hair,glass`s and a crombie stood right in front of me and said something like"you Southend fans are XXXXs" if you dont say it we will give you a good kickin..not really not knowing what to do at that moment "Griff the whiff" came and stood next to me.That must have worried them coz they disappeared after that saying to me they would meet me outside..never saw them again.
Again happy memories supporting our Blue boys
There was a few other young lads who i spoke to,telling them i was going to the Stockport v blues game.Come today,this friday they had a big job/thing going on and they asked me twice will i be turning up today coz they needed everybody on board,Someone had told him (the boss) i wasnt turning up,i told him both times yes...but i knew i was off to Stockport not work.
On the way to work monday i was warned i had been sacked..i did not care,what was more important..work or the Blues??
I was young, free (or at least up to the B&HA away game 1975 i was, until a miscarriage of justice!!! ment i missed a few months of our games) and single.
So i got the big"E" but got a job a couple of days later with i think a 50p a day more money..happy days.
As for the game i was also on Brothers coach.I stood in the paddock a few steps from some other Blues fans.
One Blues fan was MG,from Canvey maybe two years older than me..he was known after the Exeter away game as" Griff the whiff"....coz of his upset stomach!!!
As i wrote i was alone when three SCFC lads came up to me and started to give me stick,I didnt say anything,but the biggest lad,maybe 19, short hair,glass`s and a crombie stood right in front of me and said something like"you Southend fans are XXXXs" if you dont say it we will give you a good kickin..not really not knowing what to do at that moment "Griff the whiff" came and stood next to me.That must have worried them coz they disappeared after that saying to me they would meet me outside..never saw them again.
Again happy memories supporting our Blue boys
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