It was my initial job, and I had only commenced a year prior.
I was employed in London at a national newspaper. Newspapers primarily served as the main source of information, and it was common for readers to purchase two or three copies daily to stay updated on the latest news and sports results.
Television was still in its infancy, featuring only one channel…the BBC.
The incoming news was heartbreaking; the entire nation was set to grieve for one of its beloved football teams.
The aircraft that carried the Manchester United team had tragically crashed, resulting in numerous players dead and injured.
I don’t need to recount the history of that tragic day; it’s been thoroughly documented.
However, the news was intensely dramatic, and we printed editions late into the night.
Long lines formed as people waited to purchase a copy featuring the latest updates.
What might you ask has triggered these memories to resurface?
It was the outcome of the Chelsea versus Barcelona match on TV. In this cup game, an English club was set to travel to Munich for a football match.
United went on to become the most renowned and prosperous club, as well as the wealthiest club in Britain, rising from the ashes of a disaster to form another exceptional team.
Can Chelsea secure a victory in Munich?
Will they be flying there? …I’m uncertain.
What I wish for is that all the fans will remember those remarkable players from 1958, who may be watching over the game and cheering on Chelsea from a place a bit higher than Bayern’s stadium.
My hope is for the players and fans to take a moment to offer a silent prayer for all those who never made it home from that game in 1958.
by TOG
