TijuanaTim Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 I moved to Southampton when I was seven years old, my dad was already 62 years old but had been a decent player in his time. He would never admit to being a 'fan' of any club, but deep down loved watching Best - Greaves and Paine. Reluctantly after being lovingly encouraged by my ever-enthusiastic mum, knowing how thrilled I'd be, dad took me to two games. The matches were pompers away in the promo year and Spurs home the first year up. My mum, bless her, also took me to see Wolves and Leeds (Bremner made her amused for some reason). ...You guessed it I was hooked. A family friend 'Uncle Leo' then took me to several games and by the time the Newport County cup game came along a year or two later I didn't miss a home game for numerous years. That little stadium packed to rafters, we had good hard working players with a couple of magnificent stars. Chivers oozed class, Paine was quite superb, a fledgling Channon was exciting to watch and in Ron Davies we felt we had the greatest thing to grace a field, a superman amongst mere mortals. A player that could outjump Jackie Charlton, Mike England, Ian Ure or any other defender by a clear foot and half. Then deliver a powerful, downward head harder than most players could kick a ball into the bottom corner breaking Banks, Stepney, Bonetti or Jennings heart. Let's face it Southampton Football Club became family, I seemed to care about them as much. It didn't matter if I could only afford the half a crown to stand on the Milton or if I paid the six and six to be under the East Stand enclosure with Uncle Leo's nipper Wayne, they were everything to us and let's face it, they appreciated that and we meant a lot to them. We were on the up, Saints and us fans were establishing ourselves in the upper echelons of what was even in those days, the best league in the World. The chanting and 'terrace culture' grew, like many other contemporaries I was caught up in all of that. It was in the blood, but Saints were always the priority. When the tragedy of relegation happened in '74, despite winning at Goodison 0-3 we knew we were an established club and would return shortly. I mean we had Ossie and the 'Wiltshire Windmill', who was now one of Europe's most talented, exciting and deadly strikers. So '75 was kind of disappointing and a shade shocking too, but we had so many laughs supporting SFC that season. Despite being poor in the league I seem to recall beating the Cup Holders (West Ham), champions (Derby) and the doing the double over the Scottish champs (Glasgow Rangers) around then. Though we stayed down for a couple more seasons the subsequent two years were also great years to be a Saint - the Cup - Europe and then the inevitable promotion despite losing Channon. The first year up was awesome, a fantastic late come back at Elland Road then Wembley again. Shortly after big Lawrie started to weave his magic. Far more than re-establishing ourselves we became used to being a dominant top level factor, in this the 'modern' era. During all this time we had left our bile-spitting, sub-standard neighbours pompee so far behind us that they no longer of any relevance whatsoever. This made the Saints 'family's' life just so much sweeter. Next we had the Keegan years and then the pinnacle for me - the Mark 'Psycho' Dennis inspired season of 'so-nearly'...1983-4 (with the onus on the '84 part). We were awesome, we killed Liverpool at the Dell, could beat anyone - literally anyone - put in front of us, at home there was an intimidating atmosphere and we travelled really well, with a large and loud following. Okay we all know that we were pipped in two competitions, however, we had fantastic memories and as much as we loved the Genius Frank Worthington, we were basically, a goalscoring centre-forward short of being double winners and I'll go to my grave believing that. Worthy went - Big Joe came. Mac went - Nichol came. Williams went - Case came, but Saints were still a top level force. Then this willowing Channel Islander showed up, developed and Saints again had a Godlike figure to match or surpass Big Ron Davies and nothing bad could happen to us, because when it started too Matty would don his cape, summon his super-human skills and banish the bad guys from Manchester, Liverpool and London. Not only would he do that, but he'd do it with Southampton panache, class, cavalier spirit and most importantly humble integrity. Our chosen son is still to this day not only the city's most beloved adoptee, but also welcomed with open arms in any club anywhere on the planet...can the same be said for other so called icons such as Hoddle, Hughes, Cantona and Gazza? We left our beloved temple and moved to our shiny, new home and duly went off to another cup final and Europe, all the same what was happening in the background. Were our precious finances being carefully planned and handled as we had taken for granted for decades? Did the club still love us as much as Johnny Sydenham, Jim Steele, Stevie Moran and Matty loved us? Were the players even relating to us any more? Were we still their family as much as we thought they were our's? Meanwhile the unconscionable, the rise of those red-headed, step-children 17 miles Southeast of us...money, promotion, hired guns and let's face it growing success. When was the downward turning point? Losing at fartton..maybe even more significantly Killer being injured just before? I don't know but we hit a slippery slope after and the star and crescent ascended. Relegation, accelerated by the awful decision to hire 'Awwy....misery ever since. A lot of us give to club - to our players, which some of us have continued to consider 'familylike' and they haven't given us much back huh? Poor club management, coaching, tactics, business strategy, mistakes and sub standard performance on and off the field. My son asks me would I put up with that from a friend, a relationship, a vendor - supplier or business, another family member or even him? I don't have a positive answer... So now I find myself after 44 years of love feeling empty, brutally disappointed, let down and frustrated. That frustration magnified by events down the road. My lovely girlfriend, a rookie by Southampton supporting experience standards wrote in her latest diatribe 'Can things become any worse being a supporter of Southampton Football (Soccer) Club? We haven't a pot to pee in, can't even be sold for cents on the dollar and down the road our bitter rivals Portsmouth have been acquired by an Arabic billionaire and now have ECL aspirations.' I totally realize that I haven't suffered as much as some of you admirable lot closer to the 'train-wreck'. Also accept apologies, normally much more upbeat. I am tired and spent, trying to make things happen from over here....I lost two close family members to long, drawn out deaths...and guess what it almost feels like waiting for that inevitable funeral again - it's heartbreaking FFS Please add your tale - hopefully with 'happier endings'. You the fans are the greatest thing Saints have ever had and I am so fortunate to count so many as friends/family!! 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lee_saint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Awesome Tim (p.s, when are you going to bring all those soccer girlies on a UK tour?) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheSaint75 Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Good read, but cheer up mate things are looking on the up again, and hopefully that lot down the road won't be taken over!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Evil Monkey Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Very enjoyable read. I only wish I could have been around to see those dizzying high points in the clubs history. I dont think I even appreciated MLT enough when he was in his prime Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scaramanga Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 excellent read =D> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
saints triumph Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Tim a very well written and heartfelt post thet I can empathise with. We are now in the same situation as the ****s down the road, in as much we are both at the same stage in takeover stakes ie. exclusivity. The amounts involved may well be higher, but I am happy that the guys behind our takeover appear have a love for our club and not a limp erection (spinaker tower ) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
glkdcdes Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Enjoyed your tale and can relate to all of it as i started going to the dell as a 9 year old in 1964. Can remember getting players autographs as they came out in to the old car park. Like you the club is entwined with my family life and i always went with my younger brother from being a boy and when we both got married and went our own ways we would still meet outside the ground every home match and watched the match together. When he died at only 40 can remember the first game i went to after, standing at half time and thinking back with tears flowing as i looked around the ground. So southampton is in my blood. I think the spirit of the club was destroyed by a certain Mr Lowe, but thankfully he has now gone and with Le Tiss involved we must be more optomistic. Football has changed and will never be the same as it was when players were less mercenary but i really believe that we can now at least start looking forward with hope. So come on Tijuana Tim not far from pre season and another go on the rollercoaster of supporting our club. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SoccerMom Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Red-headed stepchildren... Now there's one I haven't heard outside the family for some time, as in.. "I'm gonna slap you around like a red-headed stepchild!" Cheer up, Tim! Live life and love Saints like the nipper does. League one, who cares? Administration, who cares? And when you're nine, you have no real concept of mortality or finality, so everything that's happening has no impact on him. He just can't wait to get back to St Mary's and is hounding me for news of season tickets and pre-season. And feel his joy: on Weds eve he had his Manure supporting friend over. They watched the match. They put on "Unbelievable" afterwards. And went to bed nattering, "and did you see that back-heel? what about that volley? how did he stay on his feet when....?" Henry? no. Ronaldo? no. Saints fans know what real heroes are. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Golac's Cunning Stunts Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Tim How nice it is to read something as heartfelt and honest as this compared to the usual drivel served up by the many smart arses on here. I started watching Saints a few years later than you, but not that much. First match was home vs Cardiff in the season prior to promotion. From that one match I was hooked even though I was scared to death of all the grown up blokes who swore and smoked roll ups. For many years later whenever I smelt tobacco smoke, I associated it with watching Saints on the terraces. So, little did I know, this was to be the golden era. So many great players, so many triumphs against so called bigger teams. I used to go with my Dad and Uncle who are both long gone now. But I shed a tear for both of them when we got to the cup final again. I think moments like that are what seperates true fans of clubs from the plastic Mancs and Scousers. A football club handed down through the generations. Anyway, I left Southampton in 1984 and never went back there to live. I still follow them with a passion and still get to see them a fair bit. Alas, my son has broken the line, but in recent times, perhaps I can't blame him for that. I too lost a very dear relative to a devasting illness only a few months ago. A young lady cut down in her prime. It does serve some perspective on some of the hystrionics served up on here. My take on it is that we only have one life and we should try to be as happy as we can be. I count watching and following Saints through good and bad as an intrinsic part of my happiness for, oh so many reasons. Today's news has brightened my day. Here's hoping for another day, sun shining, 11 men running out of the tunnel in red and white... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dubai_phil Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Tim, great post. When you move away, it hits you a little more about some of the things you miss, and that feeling of belonging and shared experiences moves higher up the list year by year. Suddenly, when you see people destroying it, and then when you see the unholy mess it has become it hurts. All fans would have hurt badly if we had been lost completely, but for me -it would have been the last straw, that last real regular link back to that place we think of as home. It makes you so aware of things and I know that you have been tireless in your efforts to try and find a way to help as have many others. We now face a long road back, but we are on it and hopefully (not TOO soon) we will have grandchildren that we can take one day who can also be bitten by the bug As for that lot - well, that could SO have been us, we all know why it isn't but who knows, one day Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BadgerBadger Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Now listen to this - the lyrics are so apt: Is it too early to champion a brave new dawn.......? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amesbury Saint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Now listen to this - the lyrics are so apt: Is it too early to champion a brave new dawn.......? great version of the song - can it be downloaded? pm me Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Massimo Osti Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Hey shame radio Hampshire has gone belly up..................... We wont be able to hear your fantastic match summary(via radio) and all know, and look forward to when next you will be gracing us with your presence from across "the pond" Your so great Tim........ and by the way "God bless America" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rtb Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Excellent post Tim, and spot on about the 83/84 season. I firmly believe if Williams had been subbed at half time in the semi final (not fit), we'd have beaten Everton, that would have given us the extra impetus in the league, and then Watford in the final ????? We'll never know. Wonderful days. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fitzhugh Fella Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Hi Tim - just back from the Ave where the likes of Kade, Wayne Bennett, Big Kenny, Ken Massey, Micky Windows, Sam MacLoughlin, Phil Green and loads of others were celebrating that every alternate Sat afternoon come rain or sun we will still have a Mecca to head to. And I don't mean the Royal Pier. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rocker268 Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Hey shame radio Hampshire has gone belly up..................... We wont be able to hear your fantastic match summary(via radio) and all know, and look forward to when next you will be gracing us with your presence from across "the pond" Your so great Tim........ and by the way "God bless America" I agree I always liked hearing you after a match. That was a good piece and a good read, hopefully today will be seen as the turning point in our history and we will be living in the glory days again soon, after fighting for it, not buying it like pompey seem to be about to do Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Under Weststand Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Excellent post Tim some great memories there. The 83/84 season you elude to was so near to being perfect, the 5th round Tie at Farton Carp was so awesome what a great season. I can still remenber looking out of my sisters 4th floor flat in Overdell Court at the age of 10 when she went to Uni in Soton & seeing an empty Dell & I was hooked from then on, still can't explain it to this day but it just gripped me end of. Today's news will hopefully give many more people the same chance to be gripped as I & many other of us so obviously have been in the past. I look forward to many more happy days to come. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hugh Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Excellent piece TT. My period of Saints addiction almost exactly matches yours. I just hope that better days will be ahead again now. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
doggface Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 enjoyed that tim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LVSaint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Thanks for that Tim. My tale would be a lot shorter and less interesting so I won't bother. I don't know if it has been better for us expats with the detachment when the going got tough, although it was extremely painful immediately after our relegation from the Prem with no one else around who could empathize. Lucky for me, I will be back in August to see them play again (all things pending Pinnacle). Can't bloody wait! COYRs! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TijuanaTim Posted 29 May, 2009 Author Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Hi Tim - just back from the Ave where the likes of Kade, Wayne Bennett, Big Kenny, Ken Massey, Micky Windows, Sam MacLoughlin, Phil Green and loads of others were celebrating that every alternate Sat afternoon come rain or sun we will still have a Mecca to head to. And I don't mean the Royal Pier. Dunc, that's a very elite little firm my son. I'm so glad about the (not under the plastic palms) Mecca as well. Lee...several of the the girlies (Saints USA women) and myself will be back for the first couple of games next August doing a reccy. Like I said earlier, the fans of Southampton are fantastic and I am proud to be one of them and call so many friends. Sincere thanks to all that have responded so positively. I am normally upbeat, but you guys have made me feel so much better today. I was a little nervous posting this one and yet again the majority of Saints fans react fantastically. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RoswellSaint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 That is a great piece, Tim. Reminds me of why I became a Saints fan - a few years after you but not too many. As LV says above, it has been tough as an expat, being so far away and feeling helpless. I have tried to educate the locals on Saints' plight. But, I would think, tougher on everyone in Southampton. Lets hope this is the start of something good. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lee_saint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Dunc, that's a very elite little firm my son. I'm so glad about the (not under the plastic palms) Mecca as well. Lee...several of the the girlies (Saints USA women) and myself will be back for the first couple of games next August doing a reccy. Like I said earlier, the fans of Southampton are fantastic and I am proud to be one of them and call so many friends. Sincere thanks to all that have responded so positively. I am normally upbeat, but you guys have made me feel so much better today. I was a little nervous posting this one and yet again the majority of Saints fans react fantastically. You best let me know my friend, i'll show them around, infact, if any of them want somewhere to stay, I can help out...... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gjphilsaint Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 I dont know you TT but thanks for an outstanding post.... I am with you in all that you post. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rallyboy Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 I remember standing at Highbury and watching the Everton fans spill all over the pitch celebrating Heath's winner - Shilts stood with hands on hips, grubby scousers leaping about, that should have been our year... As for tracking our decline from afar Tim, let me tell you that in the last six months the fans have given far more support to the team than they deserved, while the players struggled hopelessly the support was at times magnificent - the spirit that celebrated life at the Dell is still there, keep the faith. Even if we are wound up, one day soon some poor footballing backwater in the conference will get a good beating from New Saints!! We have to believe that we will rise again, and don't be depressed by what is happening down the road, you can give some people a billion quid but they will still spend it on pegs, horse brass and caravans. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
inoffthepost Posted 29 May, 2009 Share Posted 29 May, 2009 Tim I might know you but i'm not sure. As you'll see I don't post a lot but your topic deserves a 'Soul Cellar' type response. Born in Sholing to dissidents from down the road and following a move to Merry Oak at the age of 3, I was 'treated' to football at nottarf krap one week and the dell the next with my first game being versus Bristol City in our promotion season of 65/66. When left to my own devices it didn't take too long to make up my mind where i stood as a football fan. Following promotion I remember the following season queueing outside the Milton at 12 o'clock to guarantee a place in the 'boys box' and, then later, on the Milton. I was there when we drew 1-1 against Man City, our first home game in Div 1 and when Campbell Forsyth broke his leg against the mighty Liverpool. The players then were ordinary blokes like we are now. We used to take our autograph books round to Dennis Hollywoods bungalow in Franklyn Road in Sholing, Martin Chivers lived in Upper Deacon Road and Terry Paine in Glenfield Crescent in Bitterne. Alright they owned their own property but they were amongst ordinay folk. The 70's followed and we had our ups and downs, literally, but always felt that, on a good day, we had enough to beat anyone. I was at Bradford, Stamford Bridge and Wembley in '76 and suffered in kick in the nuts after the game. It didn't matter, I'd just witnessed the biigest game in our history. The journey back was superb with fans on every motorway bridge and the town was buzzing when we got back. The next day we were on the roof of the old A.B.C. cinema to watch the presentation of the cup at the Civic Centre. The Rose Gardens and fountain were deluged by fans, the old bill weren't happy that we were on the roof and in their attempts to get us down they managed to wreck the double extension lader that we'd used to get onto the roof. We got back down via the London Steak House. Probably the best known lads included Ansell, Coombes, etc. Then playing the game got in the way of attending but you never forget where your roots lie. The memories are unforgettable and as I sit typing this i just wish that the youngsters that read this stuff can get a feel for the history and an understanding of how things were and may be for the future. As we sit on the dawn of a new era let's hope that today's youth can experience what we have and then we'll know that life is on the up. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ooohTerryHurlock Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Now listen to this - the lyrics are so apt: Is it too early to champion a brave new dawn.......? Fantastic! Absolutley cracking. Surley this needs playing at SMS everymatch! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alehouseboys Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 ...you can give some people a billion quid but they will still spend it on pegs, horse brass and caravans. Agree, nice piece TT, strikes a chord with all of us of a certain age. Shades of the much-missed 'Soul Cellar' thread - not sure ol' Sundance/19 will agree tho' (not that he'd really know anything about it). Bouncing up-and-down on the terraces...ah, 'appy days! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dalek2003 Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 It is hard now. But, the good times will return and when we taste success it will be that much sweeter. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
70's Mike Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great piece Tim We share so many memories and great times, it may not be PC these days but the tribal nature of football support in those days meant that friendships were made that stand the test of time. The love of Southampton Football Club and the City was shared on the terraces by those of us who watched "little" Southampton challenge the big boys Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Badger Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Now listen to this - the lyrics are so apt: Is it too early to champion a brave new dawn.......? Dreadful version,sung at the pace of a death march. Try this for a more up tempo rousing version: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
70's Mike Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Hi Tim - just back from the Ave where the likes of Kade, Wayne Bennett, Big Kenny, Ken Massey, Micky Windows, Sam MacLoughlin, Phil Green and loads of others were celebrating that every alternate Sat afternoon come rain or sun we will still have a Mecca to head to. And I don't mean the Royal Pier. some names i have not heard for a good few years Dunc Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
red&white4life Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great read Tim. I remember my first game. I was 6 I think and my dad took me on the bus from Eastleigh. Got to the Dell about 1 hour before ko, dad sat me on the wall at the front of the Milton, sunny day, steward asked me to get off the wall about 10 mins before the players came out. Remember chanting " chanooooo chanoooo", beat Leeds, can't remember the score tho. Long time ago, 73 I think. Never new it would get me hooked back then. So I suppose I should blame my dad ;o) Cheers Tim, Col. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KK the 2nd Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great post and sounds such a familar journey. I too starting out with with my Dad in the 64.65 season under the west stand (he had a wooden box that I used to stand on). Then gradually watched more and more on my own, firstly in the Archers Road before graduating to the Milton in the early seventies. Still a season ticket holder but now one of the old f*rts in the Kingsland! Let's hope that family spirit can now return and this may be a turning point for the genuine fans to battle against the odds and reestablish ourselves where we truly belong. I'm actually looking forward to next season. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saint Fan CaM Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Tim - thanks for your message - while you suggest it is downbeat, I would argue that there is a significant uplifting undertone. Reading your memories of Paine, Davies and Channon brought a tear to my eye and made me remember there is a longevity to our great club. Supporting a football club is not like finishing a 100m sprint - its about being a part of a lasting story that has its ups and its downs, its twists and turns, its characters. A story that generations can enjoy in different ways - my part of the story started about the same time as yours. Your message has reminded me that loving my home City and Saints is not PRIMARILY about the silverware, the instant success etc - its about being a part of something that matters to 1,000's of likeminded others. That's surely what a CLUB is supposed to promote right? Sounds simple, but its very easy to forget that when you see the infrastructure of that club become more and more fragmented. My reflections start in the mid-60's - I followed Leeds Utd with Lorimer and Bremner being two of my hero's from that team (as a midfielder, I loved the way Bremner played). But I also supported the Saints - my home team - and in those days in seemed much more acceptable to have two teams to support. We would play football in the playground every break and not being too studious, it was my focus and I couldn't wait to get out and play. We were a poor family (although I didn't really think that way then) and so I could not afford to go to The Dell for 1st team matches. My Dad liked footie, but never was one to go to games. I scrimped whatever pocket money I could get and went to see the reserves play at The Dell occassionally. The thrill of not knowing who would be playing was intense - i.e. it could be a 'big star' coming back from injury to gain match fitness! THAT was my highlight. I had to cycle from Swaythling to The Dell as I couldn't afford the bus fare as well as a match ticket. By about mid-70's I had lost some interest - girls and music filled my life more. But I worked part-time in a store in town and that's where I saw us win the cup in '76 - the town centre was dead! I remember riding my push-bike up the avenue and all over following the team bus when it did the celebration tour. What joyful days. Then I settled and had a family - with four kids I still had no spare money to buy a ticket and even if I did, there were none to be had as Saints were on the march and tickets were like gold-dust. I missed much of the 80's-90's era sadly, although I always kept a watching brief - e.g. I took my eldest Son (7 at the time) to Wembley to see the ZDS Cup final against Forest. Fast forward to 2005. Kids grown-up - divorce and happy 2nd marraige all have had an effect, but noteably my personal and social circumstances have changed considerably. The bass player in my band is an ST holder and I start buying the odd match ticket to see Saints at the SMS - I was back in the fold and I knew this time it would last. Two seasons later I had my first ST, some shares, did some away games too. But of course like everyone reading this, I've seen my club almost die which has not been exactly pleasant. I want to take this opportunity of thanking TSF and TSW for providing me with a place to chat Saints. I would like to thank you Tim for pulling me back from the brink of losing the plot. Supporting Saints is not about the glory - its about being a part of a long and great story. And long may it continue. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rem Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great post Tim. You brought back fond memories of going to The Dell in the sixties and those great players and characters. I migrated to Australia in 1968 so wasn't around to see Saints in the the glory days of '76 and the eighties. But I've always followed my beloved Saints, listening out for scores on short-wave radio, reading odd snippets that appeared occasionally in Australian newspapers (very rare) and watching the even rarer games on TV. The internet has made following my team a lot easier these days but unfortunately that coincided with our recent decline. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rem Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great post Tim. You brought back fond memories of going to The Dell in the sixties and those great players and characters. I migrated to Australia in 1968 so wasn't around to see Saints in the the glory days of '76 and the eighties. But I've always followed my beloved Saints, listening out for scores on short-wave radio, reading odd snippets that appeared occasionally in Australian newspapers (very rare) and watching the even rarer games on TV. The internet has made following my team a lot easier these days but unfortunately that coincided with our recent decline. (This bit got cut off) We have had some positive news over the past couple of days, so let's hope the good times are on their way back. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
red&white56 Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great Post - and you've highlighted what's great about this club - the fans and their passion for their club. My first game was December 63 (i think), 3-3 draw against Northampton - Terry Paine scored - I didn't have a clue as to who was supposed to be good or bad - BUT the atmosphere was brilliant and the fact that I was there with my dad and my uncles, I was hooked. I remember the first game I took my hipper to - against Luton - with Dean Keily on loan - boy did the crowd give him some stick - but it had the same effect on my son as my first match had on me. It's the fans that count ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rallyboy Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Reflecting on my early days of going to the Dell, I can't help but think there must be a few more like me thinking, if my Dad was still about he would go up the wall at what has gone on here, in fact I am not even sure I could put up with how annoyed he would be! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Summers Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 You best let me know my friend, i'll show them around, infact, if any of them want somewhere to stay, I can help out...... +1 ;-p Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TijuanaTim Posted 30 May, 2009 Author Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Tim - thanks for your message - while you suggest it is downbeat, I would argue that there is a significant uplifting undertone. Reading your memories of Paine, Davies and Channon brought a tear to my eye and made me remember there is a longevity to our great club. Supporting a football club is not like finishing a 100m sprint - its about being a part of a lasting story that has its ups and its downs, its twists and turns, its characters. A story that generations can enjoy in different ways - my part of the story started about the same time as yours. Your message has reminded me that loving my home City and Saints is not PRIMARILY about the silverware, the instant success etc - its about being a part of something that matters to 1,000's of likeminded others. That's surely what a CLUB is supposed to promote right? Sounds simple, but its very easy to forget that when you see the infrastructure of that club become more and more fragmented. My reflections start in the mid-60's - I followed Leeds Utd with Lorimer and Bremner being two of my hero's from that team (as a midfielder, I loved the way Bremner played). But I also supported the Saints - my home team - and in those days in seemed much more acceptable to have two teams to support. We would play football in the playground every break and not being too studious, it was my focus and I couldn't wait to get out and play. We were a poor family (although I didn't really think that way then) and so I could not afford to go to The Dell for 1st team matches. My Dad liked footie, but never was one to go to games. I scrimped whatever pocket money I could get and went to see the reserves play at The Dell occassionally. The thrill of not knowing who would be playing was intense - i.e. it could be a 'big star' coming back from injury to gain match fitness! THAT was my highlight. I had to cycle from Swaythling to The Dell as I couldn't afford the bus fare as well as a match ticket. By about mid-70's I had lost some interest - girls and music filled my life more. But I worked part-time in a store in town and that's where I saw us win the cup in '76 - the town centre was dead! I remember riding my push-bike up the avenue and all over following the team bus when it did the celebration tour. What joyful days. Then I settled and had a family - with four kids I still had no spare money to buy a ticket and even if I did, there were none to be had as Saints were on the march and tickets were like gold-dust. I missed much of the 80's-90's era sadly, although I always kept a watching brief - e.g. I took my eldest Son (7 at the time) to Wembley to see the ZDS Cup final against Forest. Fast forward to 2005. Kids grown-up - divorce and happy 2nd marraige all have had an effect, but noteably my personal and social circumstances have changed considerably. The bass player in my band is an ST holder and I start buying the odd match ticket to see Saints at the SMS - I was back in the fold and I knew this time it would last. Two seasons later I had my first ST, some shares, did some away games too. But of course like everyone reading this, I've seen my club almost die which has not been exactly pleasant. I want to take this opportunity of thanking TSF and TSW for providing me with a place to chat Saints. I would like to thank you Tim for pulling me back from the brink of losing the plot. Supporting Saints is not about the glory - its about being a part of a long and great story. And long may it continue. What a well written and enjoyable insight, thanks mate. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redondo Saint Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Great posts chaps! As I sit watching the cup final on Fox sports, I remember our day of glory! Lets hope for more happy days in the future. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EFM Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 What a moving post Tim. To be honest, If I'd read it yesterday morning I'd probably have been in tears. As it is, with recent news and fingers firmly crossed, I read it today with my eyes filling up but with nostalgia but not despair. Today it has made me feel like I almost don't care what division we find ourselves in as long as we have our club. We all have our squabbles and disagreements on here (and I'm as much to blame as the next person) but when I go to watch Saints, especially away games, every single man, woman and child on our side is a friend. Top post Tim. Here's to happier times!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ericofarabia Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Lol Tim, looks like you may have started another "Soul Cellar" thread here much to the chagrin of certain posters on here But it is with perfect timing, now that we look as if we will have a club to support into the future, to look back at the great memories following the club has given so many of us. I think I must have been the original Glory hunter , first game was our first ever game in the top flight, Man City a 1-1 draw. Too young to remember much about the game, but the whole occassion was incredible to a wide eyed young lad. I'd never seen so many people in one place, never heard so much noise (or heard adults openly swearing and smelling of booze ) and remember this was in the days of Black and White TV (and Replica kits) I was amazed at just how green the pitch looked and how amazing the Red and White shirts looked. Like many of the other posters on here, I went along with Dad, Grandad, Uncle and Aunty. We used to get to the ground about 1230 to ensure getting a place on the front wall at the Milton End. Even that early, for the big games there would already be massive queues!! The following season I had my first away trip (wish I could teleport myself back to that game). Saints incredibly thrash the mighty Chelsea 6-2 at Stamford Bridge, it's been down hill ever since then!! Big Ron with 4 and Chivers with 2. Even Ossie got the 2 Chelsea goals!! Funny you mentioned the Newport Cup game, what a trip that was! We were sat right at the back of the stands and had a grandstand view of the scrapping all around as the locals gave the visiting Saints fans a warm welcome!! The next few years saw plenty of goals at both ends and qualification for Europe twice. Unfortunately I never managed to go to any of the away trips over the years, hopefully my turn will come yet!! Then relegation, 1st team to fall foul of the 3 up 3 down regime, yet for some unknown reason my interest in following the team actually increased. Maybe coinciding with now being a young teenager and going to games with mates was a part of the growing up process. For sure most of my teenage highlights revolve around the football and those who I went to games with. Winning the FA Cup, seemingly scoring 3 at every home game, getting promoted, another Wembley trip and signing the likes of Ossie, Super Mac,Bally, Shilton, Charlie George and of course Kevin Keegan, playing some delightful football and it always seemed to be sunny helped make the 70's and early 80's such a wonderful time to be a Saints fan. I really do feel sorry for the youngsters and even not so young now, who missed out on those halcyon days. Great Cup runs, 10000 at WBA and Forest, great away support in the promotion year at Fulham, Luton and Orient etc etc. The buzz that greeted the news that we had signed Kevin Keegan, reaching top position in Div 1 with a win at Mboro this was the stuff that dreams were made of Unfortunately I missed most of the Runners up and losing semi final year as I'd moved overseas. But as Phil mentioned, when you move away from home, it is the football team that still lets you keep your sense of belonging. I had footie echoes sent out, had to put up with the appaling BBC World Service reception to find out scores (no Innernet or Mob phones back then ) and planned my leave home to coincide with matches. Still overseas, but still Saints mad as ever, and have also introduced my son into the fold as well!! My last ever Dell match was the classic come back from 3 down to draw (thrash) Liverpool 3-3 . That match just about summed up everything of what the previous 36 years of going to the ground had given me. Seeing and then entering St Marys for the first Prem game v Chelsea, despite the result was an incredible experience of thinking we have finally arrived as serious players, unfortunately we didn't kick on from there. I only get to see 2 or 3 games a season now, but listen to The Saint (RIP) whilst getting totally sloshed for all the others and spend far too much of my spare time on here :cool:. Hopefully the new ownership and new league(!) will see the start of a brave new world and a rapid return to the way the club should be run and respect regained in the footballing community once again. Enough of the past for now ... here's to a bright new future, but thanks for the memories. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Griffo Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Only being 16, I haven't had all of the memories, but my first ever game was Wimbledon away, in the great escape season, when Matty scored from a corner, I seem to remember? I know I haven't particularly had the good times, but I've had a season ticket for as long as I can remember, I can remember the cup final like it was yesterday, and even then at about 10 years old, it meant everything to see the motorway covered in yellow and blue going to Cardiff, one whole end of Cardiff in a sea of yellow, the way we cared so much more than Arsenal, and that there was still probably more of our support at the end in the ground than there was Arsenal fans at the final whistle. I didn't care about the result, it was still our day, and I can honestly say it was the best day of my life. I enjoy singing 'Oh when the Saints' just as much from the bottom of my heart at a cup final or at Steaua Bucharest away, just as much as I do when we're 3-0 down away in a little northern town on a Tuesday night. It's the club that counts, the pride and the passion, not the scoreline or silverware. It's something we will all understand, and 'fans' of the top 4 clubs will never, ever, come close to getting anywhere near to understanding. I absolutely love this club. I feel the need for a little poofy love heart now. :heart: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yorkie Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Blimey and I thought I was the only one! The club has been a part of many of our lives for the last 50-years and it's difficult to believe theere is anything else that matters. Unfortunately many of my good firends have given up the ghost, other things have become more important - grandchildren believe it or not! You don't have to be a mastermind to know the last few years have been dire - personally I have been living off the memories for years. Every Saturday I got and to drive to Southampton was met with optimism and all the old buzz. Last year it was only one game - in the aftermath of Rupert. Let's face it if it wasn't for the 70's and 80's many of us would have thrown the towel in ages ago. I've tried believe you me - I've tried, but it always comes back to what else can you do on a Saturday afternoon, with other blokes and all want the same outcome? The 70's was a fantastic era even after the relegation, the 80's were even better. Then we had Shearer, MLT and the Wallace's...we had some fantastic days and nights at The Dell. Particular memories that will live with me forever...Terry Paines testemonial, that 5-0 win against Derby, Channon's testemonial, Barry Horne's screamer against Bolton, Brian O'Neils screamer against Gordon Banks, my first derby against Pompey, Millwall...battles against Man U & Chelsea in The Milton. In more recent years the game against Liverpool my favourite 4-1 win ever, the night game against Swindon we eventually won 4-2, that last goal my MLT! Who can forget the Branfoot days? The away days were pretty good too! We rarely won but who cared? It all seems so long ago - and yet some of those days are as clear as the day the memory was made. In much more recent years SMS has never really done it for me - some of the games with Pompey has a fantastic atmosphere - and the Wolves game in 2004 in The Cup. When we rock - we rock. It's a fantastic place. The Itchen North was undoubtedly for me the heart of the club ground. So many faces from those years, so many memories, a nod, a handshake, a hug...it's what being a Saints fan is all about. I get the feeling those days may return soon. The right combination of players and staff will see us rise up through the lower ranks of the football world. I don't live as far away as Tim and I don't come to SMS as often as I would like to - but the spirit lives on on the away days I attend. I'm accused of being a plastic and believing my non-attendance from SMS last season was purely because of RL was the right thing to do... I'll be back for more next season. Football is almost overpricing itself and fans can't afford to go - that's the real reason for lower attendances, and the poor fare served up by a couple of Dutch clowns and an overpaid bunch of so called professionals. We'll get our just deserts and we should soon be looking up the league instead of down. Like Tim & Dunc - I'm too old to give it up - or too stupid. Who cares it's my club and nothing can ever replace that. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
70's Mike Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 Blimey and I thought I was the only one! The club has been a part of many of our lives for the last 50-years and it's difficult to believe theere is anything else that matters. Unfortunately many of my good firends have given up the ghost, other things have become more important - grandchildren believe it or not! You don't have to be a mastermind to know the last few years have been dire - personally I have been living off the memories for years. Every Saturday I got and to drive to Southampton was met with optimism and all the old buzz. Last year it was only one game - in the aftermath of Rupert. Let's face it if it wasn't for the 70's and 80's many of us would have thrown the towel in ages ago. I've tried believe you me - I've tried, but it always comes back to what else can you do on a Saturday afternoon, with other blokes and all want the same outcome? The 70's was a fantastic era even after the relegation, the 80's were even better. Then we had Shearer, MLT and the Wallace's...we had some fantastic days and nights at The Dell. Particular memories that will live with me forever...Terry Paines testemonial, that 5-0 win against Derby, Channon's testemonial, Barry Horne's screamer against Bolton, Brian O'Neils screamer against Gordon Banks, my first derby against Pompey, Millwall...battles against Man U & Chelsea in The Milton. In more recent years the game against Liverpool my favourite 4-1 win ever, the night game against Swindon we eventually won 4-2, that last goal my MLT! Who can forget the Branfoot days? The away days were pretty good too! We rarely won but who cared? It all seems so long ago - and yet some of those days are as clear as the day the memory was made. In much more recent years SMS has never really done it for me - some of the games with Pompey has a fantastic atmosphere - and the Wolves game in 2004 in The Cup. When we rock - we rock. It's a fantastic place. The Itchen North was undoubtedly for me the heart of the club ground. So many faces from those years, so many memories, a nod, a handshake, a hug...it's what being a Saints fan is all about. I get the feeling those days may return soon. The right combination of players and staff will see us rise up through the lower ranks of the football world. I don't live as far away as Tim and I don't come to SMS as often as I would like to - but the spirit lives on on the away days I attend. I'm accused of being a plastic and believing my non-attendance from SMS last season was purely because of RL was the right thing to do... I'll be back for more next season. Football is almost overpricing itself and fans can't afford to go - that's the real reason for lower attendances, and the poor fare served up by a couple of Dutch clowns and an overpaid bunch of so called professionals. We'll get our just deserts and we should soon be looking up the league instead of down. Like Tim & Dunc - I'm too old to give it up - or too stupid. Who cares it's my club and nothing can ever replace that. " a nod, a handshake , a hug" What a brilliant way to put what the last 49 years of support mean to us of that vintage. From the beach at Blackpool, to the terraces at Ipswich, to the battle in Bradford, to the joy of Wembley and Fratton 84, the disappointment of relegation, the humilation at Fratton WE ARE SOUTHAMPTON FOOTBALL CLUB AND PROUD OF IT Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saint137 Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 My first memory of Saints was May 1st 1976, being 5 I didn't really understand what the fuss was about but didn't mind because the celebration BBQ had much more coke, jelly, and ice cream than usual, primarily because my old man had had a flutter on us winning. I really got into Saints in the promotion season 77/78 - I remember quite clearly sat in the hospital with my grandad listening to us play Hull (think it was a draw). I got caught up in the run to the League Cup Final in '79, tucked up in bed listening to the semi against Leeds and getting half told off for cheering when the final whistle went but from then on I was hooked. That same transistor radio brought me the news that we'd signed Keegan and I ran home from school shouting at everyone in the street about it, think most didn't believe me but then I'm not sure I did. This being the 80s I was never allowed to go to The Dell in the glory years and I look back with regret at that, regret at taking those years for granted and thinking it would always be that way. Leaving school and heading off to college I got dragged away from the footie, no mates of mine were interested in it and I got more into music, beer, and cars. It wasn't until I came back from Uni that I started going regularly to The Dell, usually standing in Block 5 of the Archers. So many games stand out, some good and some bad. Above all though the comeback from 3-0 against Liverpool with Marian jumping in the crowd right in front of me and of course the completely expected miracle from Le God in the final game. We were a unit back then, happy with our lot and playing (and watching) for the love of the game and little else other than the hope of embarrassing one of the big teams, seeing a stunner from Matty or Marian, or perhaps a decent Cup run. Did we get too big for our boots with the move to St Mary's? I think we lost a little of the soul of the club with the move to yet another identikit 30,000 seater stadium. But I wouldn't change it (although The Dell would be a fortress next year). Those early years were great - Beatts and Pahars in their prime and a decent attacking side. Took us a while to settle in both fans and players and for the Northam to find its feet and its voice but then came the Cup run. Went to every match, with the Wolves 1/4 really standing out, St Marys felt like The Dell. I was honoured to follow my team to Cardiff and I felt I was there for all the members of my family who couldn't be, particularly my late grandfather. Saints had been our common interest and the thing we would talk about the most, they bound us together. Whilst the result didn't go our way we as fans were exemplary and I know its that spirit that will carry us forward in a new era. The highpoint although we didn't know it then was the European Tour, seeing Saints in Bucharest was unforgettable, as was the stadium and the Romanian girls (even the ones in riot gear). And then it all fell apart, I got involved (as part of the lunatic fringe) in the Lowe Out campaign and got absolutely wasted that Friday evening when we found out we'd got rid of him, unfortunately not for good. Looking back I think so many lost sight of the football in those years, I know I did. I grew up a bit and football someone seemed less important. As my love for Saints diminished my love for my now partner grew and I started to go to less and less matches. I gave up my season ticket on the Northam, and this last season only went to Claus' testimonial and the last three home matches. Found a new home at the back of the Northam and the feeling started coming back. Can't wait until the new season and the news about the investor today has lifted a dark cloud. I can't help thinking that League One is going to be a return to real football, a chance to rebuild our relationship, for me to apologise for letting my team down, and for them to have a new beginning. I'm over the moon that I'm going to have a team to take my kids to, and my grandkids. I don't honestly care whether thats in the Prem, if we never win anything, as long as they have the Spirit of Southampton... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yorkie Posted 30 May, 2009 Share Posted 30 May, 2009 " a nod, a handshake , a hug" What a brilliant way to put what the last 49 years of support mean to us of that vintage. From the beach at Blackpool, to the terraces at Ipswich, to the battle in Bradford, to the joy of Wembley and Fratton 84, the disappointment of relegation, the humilation at Fratton WE ARE SOUTHAMPTON FOOTBALL CLUB AND PROUD OF IT "The Battle of Bradford"...who could ever forget the nearly full Party7 that came flying down from the back towards the turnstile? That game in 1984 - I came back from Manchester for that one and stood in will all the Pompey fans. What a great moment when Steve Moran banged it in! It's not about the glory It's not about the prawn sandwiches It is about a faith...a common cause and wanting to be part of it! One of my best the best days/nights of my life was that night we won promotion at Leyton Orient in 1977/8. It was one of the greatest feelings ever. From the coach trip to the game to having the window of the coach put in at the end - and the stop off in an area by a pub full of squaddies wives up for a night out! Swapping coaches at gone midnight at Fleet services and eventually getting home in the early hours. Memories I doubt will ever be replicated again in my lifetime... I really sense the good days are just around the corner again... The days out have lost nothing. A day out, a few beers, good company, a good laugh, football (winding up home fans), a good sing song...and always with a sense of humour. I'm only sorry I don't have a son I can share it all with - my youngest daughter did express an interest but lost it after an unsavoury incident. She loved the singing, the songs, the bad language, the fact that everyone seemed to say what they wanted when they wanted - and she saw a side of me that she never knew existed! She laughs now and often says "Do you remember when..." Just hope they do something sensible like shut the Chapel next season and open The Itchen North to STs. To me the ground and atmosphere suffered with the closing last season. To the brave few who can confess to watching Saints that far back...we are a dying breed literally. Some would call us dinosaurs stuck in a time wharp but they have been the best days of my life. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
suewhistle Posted 31 May, 2009 Share Posted 31 May, 2009 Like Tim & Dunc - I'm too old to give it up - or too stupid. Who cares it's my club and nothing can ever replace that. Looks like I'm from the same stupid generation.:-) I actually started getting interested in Saints living abroad and never having seen them play. Dad used to get the discarded newspapers off the aircraft, and he was starting to get excited about something over the weeks - it was that promotion season when they first went up. I was intrigued, and as a playground footballer I asked to go. As Mum and Dad were both from Eastleigh visits to grandparents meant that there were opportunities to go to games and I was soon hooked, although I still can't remember my first game. We were locked out of seeing Man U one year so next year I made sure we were earlier (although not enough for me!) and we only just made it in to that record Dell crowd. Dad, being a good deal taller than me actually saw some of the game! I was right behind the shot for Hughie's stuttering run and last minute goal, went to the replay and then semis and final, which was made easier by being a student at Southampton Uni. How I got through my finals after that I don't know! And so the story continues. A few years ago, after hating the compulsory sport at school I took up formal organised football. I moved to Italy where as the result of pre-season daily fitness training, twice a week during the season as well as 2/3 days skiing a week during the winter plus being a tall physical Anglo-Saxon lump I'm fitter than I've ever been and occasionally come of the bench. I made my home debut at half time last week and scored a header within 3 minutes. It wasn't a Ron type header, but I was thrilled. Being part of a team in any way is great; I can't relate to the Arsenals or Chelseas of this world. I've never given up on Saints but if all goes well I hope I can rekindle the spark of connection with our team that I think we've all lost over the last few years Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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