In 2008, Liverpool was bestowed the title of European Capital of Culture, resulting in 9.7 million visitors to the city that year, an increase of 34 per cent from the year before. It has been estimated, based on a five-year research programme, that £753.8 million was generated as a direct consequence of the award. Having […]
The score is 3-1 with just over 30 minutes left, and 30 yards from goal a hulk of a man stands over a dead ball, primed to pull his team back into the game. He takes three small steps and strikes the ball, not entirely with power, but with a finesse that puts the ball […]
Sunderland have won the dubious award of the worst start in the history of the Premier League. A far cry from their status as the “Bank of England” club in the 1950s, when they spent record amounts on signing new players. Since then, Sunderland’s seasons have been a continual movement up and down between the […]
Tackles flew in left, right and centre, regardless of the path or position of the ball. Two managers and one very angry assistant of considerable notoriety cajoled, roared and pushed their team through a battle of severe mental and physical exertion. Celtic Park tremored with fervour and full blooded approval. Amongst the delight at such […]
“You win some, you lose some”. It’s a phrase that applies to all sporting contests, and football is no exception. Sometimes you win 3-1, sometimes you lose 2-0. Or in Sunderland’s case, you could go all out and lose 8-0. Of course large margins of victory – or defeat – are a natural part of […]