RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/11/2007 5:27:32 AM
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azinorum
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On this day in Liverpool history - 11th March
Stig retires
Stig Inge Bjørnebye announced his retirement from football four years ago today. He had been at Blackburn Rovers for nearly three years after leaving Anfield. He played 184 times for the reds in eight seasons, helping us to the Coca Cola Cup in 1995, and also won 75 Norwegian caps.
On our way to Cardiff
Six years ago today we won 4-2 at John Aldridge's Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup Quarter-final, with Danny Murphy, Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard all on target. Robbie Fowler's penalty made him the tenth different reds player to score in that season's FA Cup, equalling a club record.
Emile's debut
A year earlier, Emile Heskey made his reds debut in a 1-1 League draw with Sunderland at Anfield, with Patrik Berger bagging a penalty in the second minute while playing his hundredth League game. The same game also brought Erik Meijer's final reds start. He only managed seven more appearances as a substitute before being released to Hamburger SV via a loan spell with Preston North End.
TV history
Forty years ago today, we played in the first FA Cup match to be screened on CCTV, as 64,851 attended the Fifth Round derby meeting at Goodison and another 40,149 watched on eight giant TV screens at Anfield. The result went the wrong way, however, with Everton winning 1-0.
On our way to Wembley
We were held to a goalless draw at Anfield by Watford on this day in 1986 in the Sixth Round of the FA Cup. However, we won the replay at Vicarage Road 2-1 six days later, as we headed towards the double.
Doing the Boro, twice
We have twice had great League results against Middlesbrough on this day in history, most recently in 1989 when we won 4-0 at Ayresome Park, with Peter Beardsley, Ray Houghton, John Aldridge and Steve McMahon all netting. Back in 1911, we won 3-0 at Anfield, with Jack Parkinson, Sam Gilligan and Arthur Goddard on the scoresheet.
Men against boys
Our first ever official game on this day in history was at the gloriously-named Bootle Boys Brigade, in the Second Round of the Lancashire Cup in 1893. The redmen got turned over 2-1 by the boys, with Hugh McQueen netting our goal.
Elisha's last
Ex-red Elisha Scott won his 31st and final cap for Northern Ireland on this day in 1936 in their 3-2 defeat of Wales in the British International Championships in Belfast.
Dunlop tyred out
Left-back Billy Dunlop scored his second and final reds goal on this day in 1905, as we thumped Doncaster Rovers 4-1 at their Benetthorpe Ground in a Second Division fixture. Robert Robinson added a brace, with Jack Cox also on target.
Mixed fortunes against Citeh
We have faced Manchester City three times on this day in history, winning once and drawing on both other occasions. Graeme Souness netted as we won 2-0 at Anfield in 1980, with a Tommy Caton own goal opening the scoring. Both other games ended 1-1, with Gordon Hodgson on target from the spot in a top-flight meeting in L4 in 1933, and Dave Watson on the scoresheet in a Wartime League match at Hyde Road seventeen years earlier.
European stalemate
Milan Baroš struck our goal as we were held to a 1-1 draw at Anfield in the first leg of our UEFA Cup Fourth round tie with Olympique de Marseille three years ago today. Didier Drogba netted the equaliser for the French side.
Eight goals at Anfield
We shared eight goals with Portsmouth in a top-flight encounter on this day in 1939. Phil Taylor bagged a brace, with Willie ****an and Berry Nieuwenhuys also on target. This was despite having led 4-1 with less than thirty minutes to go.
Bosses on the way out
Five years ago today, John Toshack was sacked as Manager of Real Sociedad for the third time, after the club dropped back into the relegation zone. Three years later, Bruce Grobbelaar was asked to resign as Manager of South African side Umtata Bush Bucks.
Chico joins the Baggies
Nine years ago today, Steve Nicol joined First Division West Bromwich Albion on loan from Sheffield Wednesday. He made ten appearances while at The Hawthorns.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 7:15:14 AM
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azinorum
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HANSEN: CARRA COULD BE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Paul Rogers 12 March 2007 - LFCTV
Former Liverpool star Alan Hansen has singled Jamie Carragher out for special praise after revealing the five players he believes should be in the running for Professional Footballers' Player of the Year award.
Votes are currently being cast by players up and down the country and Hansen believes many of them will feature the name of the Liverpool Vice Captain after another remarkable season in the heart of the Reds defence.
While Chelsea's Didier Drogba and Michael Essien and Manchester United's Gary Neville and Cristiano Ronaldo were also deemed worthy of special praise from the 'Match of the Day' pundit, it was Carragher who really caught Hansen's eye.
"There was a time, earlier in the season, when Jamie Carragher suffered a couple of poor games and began to doubt his own form," writes Hansen in his Daily Telegraph column today. "It was the same player who dominated in their most recent games against Manchester United and Barcelona, a man who is at the pinnacle of his career.
"Carragher has flourished because he has worked on his own best attributes; he is neither the quickest defender in the Premiership and nor is he the best on the ball. But when it comes to positional play, making a tackle or aerial prowess, he has sometimes been in a class of his own."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 7:17:31 AM
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azinorum
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BARCA STAR HAS SIXTH SENSE FOR REDS
Jimmy Rice 12 March 2007 - LFCTV
Barcelona defender Giovanni van Bronkhorst has backed Liverpool to win their sixth European Cup in Athens.
Van Bronkhorst believes the Reds struck fear around Europe by eliminating the holders and favourites in the second round.
"Liverpool are good enough to win the tournament now. They won two years ago with many of the same players who are still there now and they proved that year what a great fighting spirit they have," he told icons.com.
"They beat Chelsea and then came back from 3-0 down to Milan in a final where few people gave them much of a chance.
"It will be difficult for us to watch the rest of the Champions League, but it's still a great competition with some really good teams left in. When you get to this stage any team can win it, but I think that after beating us Liverpool will now be one of the favourites."
Reflecting on how Rafa's men shattered his own Champions League dream, van Bronkhorst added: "We knew before the game at Anfield that we had a huge task even though we did believe that we were capable of winning.
"The atmosphere in the stadium was everything we expected. It was fantastic, typically English with the noise and singing. It's a great stadium to play football in.
"The atmosphere did spur us on, but unfortunately Liverpool played exactly the right game. We had a lot of possession but not in the right areas - the dangerous areas - and in the first half we hardly had a shot on goal.
"Although in the end it was a very close result and Liverpool only went through on away goals, overall they deserved to go through. We were a bit lucky to win 1-0 at Anfield considering all the chances Liverpool had. They worked really hard and scored two vital goals at Camp Nou."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 7:21:36 AM
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azinorum
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RAFA: ARBELOA HAS FOLLOWED DIRK'S LEAD
Jimmy Rice 12 March 2007 - LFCTV
Rafa Benitez today praised the instant impact of January signing Alvaro Arbeloa, claiming the Spaniard has settled into the club with the same ease as Dirk Kuyt.
The full-back was thrust into action in both Barca ties, playing out of position on the left to subdue Lionel Messi.
His contribution has been somewhat overlooked in some quarters – but not by Benitez.
"It's never easy for a new player to settle immediately and it's even more difficult if someone comes from another country and doesn't speak the language," said the Liverpool boss.
"It is always a sign of quality if someone can come into the side and play well straight away. We saw this earlier in the season with Kuyt, who did well as soon as he joined us.
"Now Arbeloa has joined the club and played at a good level against Barcelona. That will help his confidence as he looks to improve even more at Liverpool."
Next up for the Reds is a trip to Villa Park on Sunday, and Benitez is determined Premiership focus isn't lost as the Champions League hots up.
"We will use the break to give the players a few days off, but we're not going away this time," he said.
"Now it's important for us to think about the next game at Aston Villa."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 7:24:02 AM
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azinorum
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On this day in Liverpool history - 13th March
Two cups on the same day
On this day in 1982, we claimed two trophies - the old Football League Cup and the new Milk Cup trophy. Tottenham Hotspur went ahead at Wembley early on through Steve Archibald, but Ronnie Whelan grabbed a late equaliser past ex-red Ray Clemence, before netting a second in extra time. Ian Rush added a third, as Spurs suffered their first defeat at Wembley, and their first loss in nine domestic cup finals. Skipper Graeme Souness lifted the old three-handled trophy, while former captain Phil Thompson held the new Milk Cup aloft.
Milan in Barcelona
Milan Baroš made his reds debut five years ago today, as a substitute in our goalless Champions League draw with Barcelona in the Camp Nou. This result left us needing to beat Roma by two clear goals at Anfield to be sure of a place in the Quarter-finals. Nick Barmby came on as a late replacement for Steven Gerrard, his 58th and final reds appearance, although he sat on the bench on a further five occasions that season.
Emile in front of his old boss
Emile Heskey drew us level at Celtic four years ago today, after Henrik Larsson had put the Hoops into an early lead. This UEFA Cup Quarter-final first leg tie ended 1-1, but was marred by El-Hadji Diouf spitting into the crowd. Unfortunately, the Scottish side won the Anfield return 2-0.
On our way to Wembley
An FA Cup game brought us our best ever result on this day, as we won 4-0 at Manchester City in the Sixth Round in 1988, on our way to the Final. Ray Houghton, Craig Johnston and John Barnes all netted, to add to a Peter Beardsley penalty. We also beat City on this day in 1915 when Fred Pagnam, Arthur Metcalf and Tom Miller struck in a 3-2 First Division win at Anfield.
Red one-offs
Messina Allman made his only reds appearance on this day in 1909, as we lost 2-1 to Bristol City at Anfield in a top-flight encounter. Tom Chorlton bagged our goal from the spot. Eleven years later, keeper Tom Armstrong played his only reds game as we drew 2-2 with The Wednesday at Hillsborough in another First Division fixture. Dick Forshaw and Donald Mackinlay struck within the last ten minutes.
Mixed derby outcomes
On this day in 1979, Andy King scored one of only four opposition goals in the League at Anfield that season, as we were held in this derby encounter. Kenny Dalglish bagged our goal.
However, we won an Anfield derby thirteen years ago today, with Ian Rush and Robbie Fowler striking in our 2-1 win to secure Roy Evans' only derby win as boss. Fowler's goal was the last derby strike in front of the old standing Kop. Six years earlier, we took part in a testimonial match for the Blues' legendary centre-half Brian Labone. John Toshack netted as Everton won 2-1 at Goodison Park.
Nice one Cyril
Cyril Done scored a hat-trick as we thumped Bury 7-2 at Gigg Lane on this day in 1943 in a game that counted for both the Wartime League and the War League Cup. Michael Hulligan added a brace, with our other goals coming from Jack Pilling and an own goal.
The Baron stops
Fred Baron bagged his seventh and final reds goal on this day in 1926. Harry Chambers was also on target as we lost 3-2 at Sunderland in a top-flight encounter.
Disappointment at Bramall Lane
We have twice lost First Division fixtures at Sheffield United on this day in history. We went down 3-0 on this day in 1965, while Billy Liddell netted our consolation from the spot as we lost 3-1 eleven years earlier.
Reds keepers in opposition
Two reds keepers faced each other in an international on this day in 1920 as Kenneth Campbell played for Scotland, who beat Ireland, for whom Elisha Scott was making his international debut. The game ended 3-0 at Celtic Park, with fellow red Billy Lacey also playing for the visitors. Two years later, England beat Wales 1-0 in an international at Anfield. Tom Bromilow played for the home side on his club ground.
Semi off to Hull
Jon Otsemobor joined Third Division Hull City on loan four years ago today. He bagged three goals in nine games for the Tigers before returning to Anfield.
Neill for the last time
On this day in 1880, future reds centre-half Robert Neill skippered Scotland while winning his fifth and final cap, as they beat England 5-4 in a friendly at Hampden Park.
Vladi on target
Eleven years ago today, Vladimír Šmicer netted for the Czech Republic Under-21's as they lost 2-1 to Spain in a European Championship qualifier in Granada.
Souey's debut
Future red Graeme Souness won his first cap for Scotland Under-23's on this day in 1974, as they lost 2-0 to England at St. James' Park.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 3:44:01 PM
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azinorum
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Alex injury a boost for Liverpool
Mark Tallentire March 13, 2007 - The Guardian
Liverpool's challenge for a Champions League semi-final place has been given a serious boost as Alex, PSV Eindhoven's key defender, looks as if he could be out for the rest of the season.
The Brazilian centre-back, whose header ended ****nal's challenge last week, pulled up in the draw at Excelsior and is awaiting results of a scan. Liverpool are due on April 3. "When he wanted to kick the ball he felt something snap in his leg," said PSV's coach Ronald Koeman. "We think that he tore a muscle. If that's the case you would be happy if he can play again this season."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 3:48:34 PM
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azinorum
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Reina Wants To Commit To Liverpool
March 13, 2007 - Goal.com
Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina has spoken of his desire to sign a long term contract with the Reds as he continues to settle to life in England.
The Spaniard has a Scouser girlfriend and even believes his future children could go on to play for England, so he has no desire to leave Anfield where he has been a first team fixture under Rafael Benitez.
The 24-year-old, who joined from Valencia in 2005, said: "I am happy here and want to stay.
"We will talk about a new deal in the summer.
"I have two years left but I want to look beyond that. My wife and I have just had our first child and she's a Scouser.
"Maybe next time I'll have a son and he can play for Spain or England!"
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 3:53:28 PM
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azinorum
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Liverpool’s Evolution Since Istanbul
It’s fair to say that Liverpool lifting the Champions League in 2005 was a bit ahead of schedule, even for a manager with a record like Rafa Benitez. Most of the players were Houllier era signings but this year the team is much more the Spaniard’s selection.
By removing Barcelona in the last 16 Liverpool are inviting comparisons with their run in 2005 when they disposed of 3 sides of the highest quality to lift the prize. Like Barcelona last week, Juventus, Chelsea and Milan were all considered to have better players but were brushed aside.
Benitez still has his tactical mastery but the squad is also considerably improved from the one he operated with in 2005 and that’s why Liverpool are a side that no one wanted to draw last week.
Goalkeeper
Like Sandor Westerveld before him, Jerzy Dudek’s last real contribution of note was to be part of a European trophy winning side. Benitez moved to bring Pepe Reina into the side and though some would say he has occasional lapses, the Spanish keeper looks a bit more secure than the Pole.
Defence
Jamie Carragher remains the rock around which the side is built but Sami Hyppia is no longer a fixture. Dan Agger had the shirt against Barcelona in both games, although the Finn is still a valued member of the squad.
The full backs Steve Finnan and John Arne Riise are still the men in possession- they have seen off the likes of Josemi, Kromkamp and Warnock but they still face a stiff challenge from Arbeloa and Aurelio. Overall the position has far more depth then in 2005 because in the 2005 Final Liverpool used Djimi Traore as Riise was in left midfield.
Midfield
Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard are the pivot of the midfield as they were in 2005. They have been joined by Momo Sissoko who gives the team a far more destructive presence than Didi Hamann, who did such a good job in the second half in Istanbul. Hamann had been a great servant but Sissoko’s athleticism is amazing
In the wide positions, injury to Luis Garcia has cut down some of Benitez’s options- Garcia has been especially valuable in Europe. However, he has Jermaine Pennant and Mark Gonzalez to call on rather than the injury prone Harry Kewell and increasingly ineffective Bolo Zenden.
Wide men find it tough to break in under this manager anyway. Gerrard usually roams in from one wing and sometimes the other berth is filled by Riise, Aurelio or Finnan (as against Barcelona in the Nou Camp).
Strikers
In Istanbul Liverpool relied on Milan Baros, supported initially from deeper by Harry Kewell. Djibril Cisse wasn’t able to play a full game but did get on, as did the always erratic Vladimir Smicer.
This was time when Smicer did come up trumps but this collection of strikers had no real target man and two players who often dribbled into blind alleys. By comparison Benitez now has a proper target man with touch (Crouch), a roving grafter (Kuyt), a player with pace to burn who can pull wide (Bellamy) and a box man (Fowler).
Though he‘s showing signs that he may replace at least two of these, maybe even three next season, they are a much better hand than he had in 2005.
Conclusion
So that’s Benitez’s undoubted tactical nous, plus a squad full of seasoned players at this level and one that is significantly better in at least four positions and arguably, five or six. A repeat could well be on.
Istanbul 2005
Dudek, Finnan (Hamann 45), Carragher, Hyppia, Traore, Luis Garcia, Alonso, Gerrard, Riise, Kewell (Smicer 23), Baros (Cisse 85).
Barcelona 2007
Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Riise, Finnan, Alonso, Sissoko (Zenden 84), Gerrard, Bellamy, Kuyt (Pennant 80).
Hugh Larkin
12 March 2007
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 3:59:29 PM
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azinorum
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THE NIGHT I'LL NEVER BE ALLOWED TO FORGET
David Fairclough 13 March 2007 - LFCTV
A few months ago I was asked if there were any special celebrations planned to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the legendary St Etienne game and, I must admit, it came as a surprise to discover that it actually happened so long ago.
It's quite scary to think that this coming Friday (16 March), exactly three decades will have passed since that never-to-be-forgotten night. It was a game that has since passed into Anfield folklore and, of course, I probably have more reason to remember it than most, so I'll make no apologies for using this week's column to reminisce.
The period prior to that famous European Cup quarter-final tie back in 1977 had been a frustrating one for me personally. I’d been in the starting line-up in the games leading up to the first leg in France but given a substitute role for the 1-0 defeat. I was restored to the side for the next two winning league games before once again being handed the number 12 shirt for the return.
The days leading up to what turned out to be one of the most talked about games in this club's history were much like most others. Nothing out of the ordinary. The only notable difference I remember was that instead of reporting to Melwood on the morning of the game we had our pre-match training session at Anfield.
While I was disappointed and frustrated to be left out of the starting line-up, I recall things were generally pretty relaxed within the squad. All the players were allowed to train as much as they felt necessary in terms of stretching and running - that in itself was not the usual.
After a pre-match meal at our city centre hotel some of the lads went for their usual little stroll around some of the shops before returning for an afternoon nap. There was a good feel about the occasion with so many French supporters arriving in Liverpool. The city centre seemed like it had almost been taken over by the St Etienne fans in their fluorescent green wigs, and a friendly atmosphere was building up nicely.
A little earlier than normal we were woken up and told because of the crowd congestion building up at Anfield there would be no time for the usual tea and light snack. The team bus was instructed to leave earlier than planned and it was only then that we sensed a difference.
When we got up by the ground, the scenes in Anfield Road were chaotic. So many fans were already packing the streets and you sort of got the feeling then that something special was in the air.
My biggest memory of the night though was the sight of the Kop as we came on to the pitch from the tunnel. I had never seen so many flags and even the odd red flare. Unusually, all 16 players from both sides walked out to the centre of the pitch before breaking off for the final warm up. Anfield was bouncing despite everyone not having yet entered the ground.
Though we respected the threat of that great St Etienne team we didn’t think there would be any problems once Kevin Keegan gave us a fortunate early lead with a cross-cum-shot that deceived the goalkeeper, who probably had one eye on the in-rushing Tommy Smith.
The French had built a great reputation throughout Europe and had only narrowly lost the previous year’s final to Bayern Munich 1-0, and though we were now level on aggregate at a packed Anfield they refused to buckle and it became a titanic struggle.
There are many different reasons for remembering the St Etienne tie but not least of all because it was a fantastic game of football between two fantastic teams and I personally struggle to remember a better visiting side.
I’ve always thought it takes two great sides to produce a really memorable match and when Bathenay deservedly drew the French level on the night with a vicious dipping shot the degree of drama increased.
I’ve heard so many memories of that night and I was as nervous as anyone in the early stages, though those nerves disappeared as the game unfolded – I just wanted to get on to try and help.
With about 20 minutes to go the visitors looked favourites to go through as we still needed two more goals and they were looking tough to breakdown. It was at this point that Bob Paisley told me to warm up.
As I got the final nod to finish my warm up, Ray Kennedy put us ahead on the night but we still needed one more and things were becoming more desperate by the minute. Saying that, I never felt under any special pressure, I was just eager to play a part.
Whenever I came on for John Toshack it was normally a case of me trying to get involved through the centre of the pitch, while Steve Heighway held the wide position.
It’s impossible to say the goal I scored was planned but in some ways it was. ‘Razor’ Kennedy once said that if he was ever in doubt what to do with the ball when he received it and I was on the pitch he would look to lob the ball forward into the spaces on either side of the centre backs and I should be aware for the opportunity.
On March 16, 1977 it worked a treat as he played the ball in behind Christian Lopez, I darted after it and my first thought was to get the ball away from him and out from under my feet to make a shooting chance. Once I managed that my next problem was to get the ball past Curkovic, the goalkeeper. My most vivid memory was to at least make sure I hit the target.
I’ve been lucky enough to have seen the goal many times since and it doesn’t lose any of its drama, I can tell you. It still makes me feel cold, what with the noise and the images of the fans celebrating.
My immediate celebration was just to leap in the air - thankfully it was captured from various angles and it’s helped to preserve the memory - before being mobbed by all the lads.
Despite the blow of conceding the third goal St Etienne continued to show their quality and made life nerve-racking for the last six or seven minutes and a lot of people forget the two superb vital saves Ray Clemence was forced to make before the final whistle saw us through.
Once we were past the powerful French side everyone realised Liverpool had a genuine chance of reaching their first European Cup Final.
By comparison, the semi final with FC Zurich was an anti-climax and provided us with a comfortable route to Rome for the historic first European Cup win. But that's another story.
I'm sure the name St Etienne will be mentioned many times during the course of this week as fans remember the dramatic events of 30 years ago and I feel privileged to have been part of it.
I'll never be convinced that sending me on late in the game was part of the master plan but given that the club came out with the right result in the end, I'm sure no-one really cares.
St Etienne will always be part of me - it must be mentioned to me almost everyday - and, like everyone else present at Anfield that night, it's a match I'll never forget.
But while it's always nice to look back, what's important now is to concentrate on the future and, ironically, the European Cup is as much the main topic of conversation at the minute as it was three decades ago.
Having knocked the impressive Barcelona out of this season's competition the Liverpool class of 2007 are eyeing a trip to ancient Athens in search of number six and if Rafa's men can pull that off then there'll definitely be cause for celebration.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/13/2007 4:02:43 PM
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azinorum
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CELEBRITY KOP CLUB: SUE JOHNSTON
Jimmy Rice 13 March 2007 - LFCTV
Welcome to Celebrity Kop Club, a unique band of Reds who've risen to fame with hope in their hearts and a Liver Bird on their chest. The next inductee may be one of our most cherished actresses but she still finds time to follow her team home and away.
The three-month wait is nearly over. In 34 hours Rafa Benitez will pin up a teamsheet in the away dressing room of the Nou Camp stadium before one of the biggest games in Liverpool Football Club's history. His players are about to board a Titan Airways flight from John Lennon Airport to Barcelona.
Already in one of the aisle seats is actress Sue Johnston. For a season-ticket holder who began supporting the club in the Shankly era, this is a red letter day indeed.
"Yes I go to European games when I can and this time I got to fly over with the players. It was phenomenal," says the 63-year-old, who rose to fame on Brookside before winning the hearts of a nation playing Barbara in The Royle Family.
"You have to keep your dignity at my age but I just adore Steven Gerrard. He went to the toilet and tapped me on the shoulder to say hello. I just said, Hi Steve, but inside I was thinking, Oh my God, Oh my God! I was a little girl again."
Fifty-odd years have passed since the same little girl attended her first game, and the memories are getting sketchier by the day.
"I'm amazed that I can't remember it. It will have been in the Fifties, but the only memories I have of those early games are the sway of the crowd and my feet not touching the floor," admits Sue, who's come a long way from the streets of Whiston where she grew up to the set of Waking The Dead from where she now speaks.
"My dad used to take me. He wanted a boy obviously but he was stuck with me. He took me to see Liverpool and St Helens, and at first I was more into rugby.
"Anyway, I gradually changed over in the late Sixties and never looked back. It's funny because Ricky Tomlinson has done the opposite. He was a big fan and still is, but he enjoys watching St Helens more now I think."
By the time the first credits rolled on Brookie in 1982, Sue (or Sheila Grant as she'd be known for the next eight years) was a firmly established Kopite.
"It was unbelievable because all the actors and the crew were into football - probably about 60/40 in favour of the Reds," she recalls. "It never got nasty but it would be hateful coming in after a derby defeat. Luckily we won most of the games in those days."
The banter included a mischievous ruse by the writers which saw Everton fans play Liverpool supporters and vice versa.
"They did it to Simon O'Brien who played my son Damon. He was a big Everton fan but his bedroom on the set was full of Liverpool posters and flags. He'd have to do all these scenes talking about how great we were, and all the actors would crowd around to watch. He'd practically vomit!"
It was during the early days of Brookie that the mother-of-one became friends with another potential Celebrity Kop Clubber, television scriptwriter Jimmy McGovern.
"We've known each other for 25 years or so. He came down to my 60th birthday party with a Liverpool shirt which had been signed by all the players and had Johnston 60 on the back," she says.
"I'd bought a special dress and my son had given me this beautiful necklace, but of course I ended up wearing the shirt. I never took it off that night but now it hangs on the front of my wardrobe in my bedroom."
Another prized possession at her home near Warrington is Bruce Grobbelaar's last Liverpool shirt – unwashed.
"It could stink like anything but I've no sense of smell so I wouldn't know!" jokes Sue, whose episode of This is Your Life was crashed by John Barnes and Robbie Fowler.
Despite a hectic filming schedule, the Reds fanatic always takes her seat in the Main Stand come matchday, and often follows the boys around the country.
"When I do go to away games I'm right in with the travelling Kop; I have such a ball in there, and you feel really looked after.
"Yes, I do sing. I'm so proud of our singing. I was watching the Tottenham versus Chelsea game the other day and the fans were just singing abuse at each other. They don't have any spirit other than abuse.
"Our repertoire is about supporting our team. I adore The Fields of Anfield Road. It might sound sad, but it's never out of my head."
As unlikely as it seems, Sue occasionally encounters the ugly side of football fandom herself.
"I have got stick in the past during away games. In fact, there was one point where my son wouldn't come with me any more," she complains.
"I went to a City game and had to be escorted out by the stewards. A friend had got me a ticket so I was in the City end, but of course I jumped up when we scored and the fans turned. Some of them confronted me and called me a Scouse b***h. I had Joel my son with me and I got a bit upset and scared so the stewards moved me to behind the dugouts.
"Another time I was at White Hart Lane and was asked to draw a raffle at half-time. All I could hear was 'You Scouse B*****d' from the stands, then I could just make out some people in our corner shouting 'There's Only One Sue Johnston' and I was so proud!"
"Anyway, I can stand up for myself so it would never put me off going."
Anfield would certainly be a lesser place if it did, not least because of the host of lucky charms she insists on carrying.
"I have to wear the same jewellery - I have some fake diamond studs and I twist them at certain times during the game. I know when I have to do it but I'm not going to tell you because it's stupid. Anyway, I always think we'll score if I twist them.
"I've also got red underwear which I'll wear for games until we lose, then I'll have to wear something else. I also made sure I went to Barcelona in exactly the same outfit I wore for Istanbul."
Talking of which…
"I booked the time off because I was filming a series of Waking The Dead at the time. I went with my son," she remembers.
"The journey took about 10 hours. Then the sight of the stadium was just an extraordinary vision surrounded by all this rubble. We were right in front of the Sky pundits and my great memory is seeing Phil Thompson stood against the window like Jesus Christ cheering his head off.
"They never make it easy for us, Liverpool, do they? I wondered after if it's possible to sue a football club for an ulcer?"
While the victory over AC Milan represents football heaven for the one-time tax inspector, another game just about outstrips it in terms of emotion stirred.
Sue was at Wembley in May 1989 to see Liverpool take on Everton in the FA Cup final just weeks after the Hillsborough tragedy. It was a day she'll never forget.
"If you ask if I've cried as a Liverpool fan, well that was the one game when I did. It was so moving – the Everton fans were so great during the whole of that time.
"I went up to the cathedral the night after Hillsborough. We couldn't get in because it was so packed; there were Everton fans laying their scarves and the priest had to hold up a radio so we could all hear. I also remember they joined all the scarves together across the two stadiums.
"One of my most vivid memories of that time was going to Anfield and a steward asking me if I'd mind going in to see the families. That's something I'll never, ever forget. That was such a sad time."
From the darkest days of the club's past, Sue and her fellow Kopites now stand on the brink of perhaps the most exciting period in Liverpool's illustrious history.
She's philosophical about change, accepting like most the need for investment and the necessity of a new stadium.
"I feel better about it than I ever thought I would about a takeover. I suppose you get to a point where you know it's got to happen if we want the best players. We're in debt and we want a new stadium.
"That will be the hardest thing, leaving Anfield, but I think that the new owners being in the crowd against Barcelona will make them realise, if they didn't already know, that they've got something pretty special on their hands and they need to look after it."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:06:21 AM
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azinorum
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DIRK: THERE'S MORE TO COME
Jimmy Rice 14 March 2007 - LFCTV
The Dutchman has scored 10 goals since arriving in the summer and has won over the fans with a series of tireless displays.
But Kuyt insists he is still finding his feet in the English game.
"To be perfectly honest I'd expected to have scored more by this stage, but I'm still confident I can get the eight more goals the boss has mentioned," he told LFC Magazine.
"I've had a few decent games without scoring and missed some opportunities, so I should have a bigger total.
"Of course I want to score lots but for me that is not the most important thing. Reaching the semi-finals and ensuring we finish in the top four are my current priorities."
Despite his scoring concerns, Kuyt claims he isn't worried about the prospect of new strikers arriving at Melwood in the summer.
"I do read newspapers and I know what they say if we lose or if we fail to score. That's not important. I think the most important thing for us is to buy good players.
"If the manager brings in a striker, that means another rival for me. It makes the team stronger and should make me better.
"Sometimes you can buy these players who are supposed to score 30 goals a season, but nothing is guaranteed in the Premiership.
"Andriy Shevchenko is a great example of that. He was exceptional in Italy but has found life difficult here. Didier Drogba didn't score many goals in his first two campaigns.
"It's my first year and I'm still adapting to the football."
Meanwhile, the 26-year-old also spoke of his respect for boss Rafa Benitez.
He said: "I already knew the boss was good but working with him now makes me realise just how good. I learn something new from him every day. He just loves his job and that's something that transmits across to the players."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:08:11 AM
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azinorum
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FINNAN DEEMED PREMIERSHIP'S BEST
Jimmy Rice 15 March 2007 - LFCTV
Liverpool full-back Steve Finnan is currently the best defender in the Premiership according to The Actim Index.
The index is calculated from goals, shots, passes, dribbles, assists, tackles, crosses, saves, clearances, blocks, interceptions, time on the pitch and the number of points gained by a player's team. Marks are deducted for red and yellow cards.
Finnan is the top performing defender this season, beating Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville into second and third place.
The top players in the Premiership according to The Actim Index are (Gareth Barry is counted as a midfielder):
1. Didier Drogba (Chelsea)
2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd)
3. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
4. Mikel Arteta (Everton)
5. Gareth Barry (Villa)
6. Wayne Rooney (Man Utd)
7. Dimitar Berbatov (Spurs)
8. Steve Finnan (Liverpool)
9. Benni Mccarthy (Blackburn)
10. Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd)
11. El-Hadji Diouf (Bolton)
12. Gary Neville (Man Utd)
13. Ryan Giggs (Man Utd)
14. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
15. Edwin Van Der Sar (Man Utd)
16. Andy Johnson (Everton)
17. Marcus Hahnemann (Reading)
18. Cesc Fabregas (****nal)
19. Paul Scholes (Man Utd)
20. Nemanja Vidic (Man Utd)
26. Pepe Reina (Liverpool)
31. Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool)
32. Jamie Carragher (Liverpool)
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:09:51 AM
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azinorum
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FORMER FAVOURITE COULD FACE REDS
Paul Rogers 16 March 2007 - LFCTV
Former Kop favourite Patrik Berger could be in line to face his old club at Villa Park on Sunday just months after it appeared he'd played his last ever game for the club.
When the Czech midfielder was sent out on loan to Stoke after refusing to play in a Reserve match for Villa, few thought he'd ever play again for Martin O'Neill but after impressing the former Celtic boss with a change of attitude and some sterling substitute appearances, Berger could yet have a future at Villa Park.
"Will Berger be given a new contract? I wouldn't rule anything out," claims the Villa boss. "I have an open mind. I never once said that Patrik Berger's career was finished here. I have been exceptionally pleased with him. That is a big turnaround for him. He has done that. At the end of it all, he is a good player."
Liverpool fans will always remember the left-footed midfielder for a sensational start to his Liverpool career – scoring four goals in three games – and the killer pass to Michael Owen for the winning goal in the 2001 FA Cup Final against ****nal in Cardiff.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:11:28 AM
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azinorum
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BARRY: I CAN LEARN FROM GERRARD
Paul Rogers 16 March 2007 - LFCTV
England international Gareth Barry has revealed that he intends to use this Sunday's clash between Aston Villa and Liverpool as a great opportunity to learn from fellow captain Steven Gerrard.
Barry has always been one of Gerrard's biggest fans and the chance to do battle with the England Vice-Captain at Villa Park is something the midfielder can't wait for after teaming up with the Liverpool star during last month's friendly international with Spain at Old Trafford.
"He is a world-class player," Barry says of Gerrard. "It is always good playing against these sort of players, and he is certainly one of the best at the moment. He is an influential leader for Liverpool, and any captain in the country can look to him and see how he inspires their team week in and week out.
"There is a lot to learn from a player like that. I believe it certainly helps being in midfield when you are captain because you can drive the team on from that position. It is an easier role from where to try and inspire your team-mates."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:12:57 AM
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azinorum
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On this day in Liverpool history - 16th March
Supersub's night
Thirty years ago today brought one of Anfield's greatest ever nights, as ‘les verts' of Saint-Étienne arrived with a 1-0 first-leg lead in the European Cup Quarter-final. We eventually won 3-1 on the night, with David Fairclough grabbing the crucial third after Kevin Keegan's early speculative long-distance strike from a corner had been cancelled out by Dominique Bathenay's second-half thirty-yard thunderbolt. Ray Kennedy gave us the lead on the night, but we still trailed on aggregate before Supersub's late winner.
Six years later, we beat Widzew Lódz 3-2 in L4 at the same stage, with Ian Rush and David Hodgson adding to a Phil Neal penalty. Unfortunately, we went out 4-3 on aggregate.
Vlad's century
Five years ago today, Vladimír Šmicer made his hundredth reds appearance in our 2-1 win at Middlesbrough that briefly sent us back to the top of the table, with goals from Emile Heskey and John Arne Riise.
White Hart Lane comeback
Michael Owen, Emile Heskey and Steven Gerrard all netted at Tottenham Hotspur as we came from behind to win 3-2 four years ago today.
Spurs take their time
Tottenham Hotspur won 2-1 at Anfield on this day in 1912, when Billy Lacey netted our consolation. This was the last time they won at Anfield in the League until they repeated the feat exactly 73 years later, with Garth Crooks scoring the only goal of the game.
We also played Spurs on this day in 1971, winning a Sixth Round FA Cup replay at White Hart Lane on our way to Wembley, thanks to a Steve Heighway goal.
Setting an unbeaten record
On this day in 1988, Craig Johnston scored in our 1-1 draw at Derby County. This was our 31st consecutive undefeated League match, then a League record. However, we lost our next League match, 1-0 at Goodison.
Most recently
We were held to a frustrating goalless draw at Anfield two years ago today by Blackburn Rovers.
Debutants galore
On this day in 1970, Roy Evans made his first reds appearance, nearly five years into his Anfield career. Roy told the Liverpool Echo, "When I told my mum I was in the team, she was so surprised she couldn't eat her tea." Chris Lawler, Ron Yeats and Bobby Graham netted as we beat Sheffield Wednesday 3-0, with future red Jack Whitham stretchered off while playing for Wednesday.
Two years earlier, left-back Peter ‘Max' Wall made his debut in our 3-2 home League win over Burnley, the first of only 42 appearances for the reds. Tony Hateley bagged a brace, with Geoff Strong also on the scoresheet. Fred Baron debuted in our 1-0 top-flight win at Sheffield United on this day in 1925, when Danny Shone nabbed our goal. We also faced the Blades in a Wartime League match at Anfield in 1946, going down 3-0.
What a goal!
Danny Wallace netted a spectacular overhead kick as we lost 2-0 at Southampton on this day in 1984. It was later named ‘Goal of the Season' by the BBC's Match Of The Day.
A fair old thumping
We trounced Fairfield 5-0 in a Lancashire League meeting on this day in 1893, with Duncan McLean grabbing his first reds goal, John Miller netting twice and Hugh McQueen and Tom Wyllie also on the scoresheet.
Charnock signs on
Fourteen years ago today, midfielder Phil Charnock signed a new contract. He only made two senior appearances, including his debut against Apollon Limassol, when he became our youngest ever European player.
Another club for Prudhoe
Future reds loanee keeper Mark Prudhoe joined basement side Darlington from Carlisle United for £10,000 on this day in 1989. He had played 36 times for the Cumbrians.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:17:33 AM
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azinorum
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US duo pledge Benitez backing
Mar 16 2007 - by Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
GEORGE GILLETT and Tom Hicks have moved swiftly to reassure Rafa Benitez of their intentions at Anfield following the manager’s request for a meeting with the new owners. Benitez was contacted by the American duo shortly after airing his desire to hear more detail about their plans for the future of the club. With interest from Real Madrid in the Liverpool manager a genuine concern, both Gillett and Hicks have shown they’re aware of the importance of forming a flourishing, working relationship with the Spanish boss.
Clearly it’s early days for Gillett and Hicks as they assess the future and await the conclusion of the formalities of their full purchase of the club – which is now unconditionally agreed. But with Benitez eager to know how much he’ll have to spend this summer, as well as their broader plans to improve numerous areas of the club, the exchange of correspondence this week could be interpreted as an important first step. Benitez told the ECHO today he anticipates he’ll be in more regular contact with both Gillett and Hicks now they’ve secured the number of shares required to buy Liverpool.
“I’ve been in contact with the new owners by e-mail over the last two days and they answered very quickly,” said Benitez. “I know they will be here for the ****nal game.
"I will not meet them face to face before then, but we are in contact and we can progress from this. This is important because we need to know the situation so we can continue our plans for the future.”
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:21:24 AM
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azinorum
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Anfield stadium delay fears
Mar 15 2007 - EXCLUSIVE by Nick Coligan, Liverpool Echo
LIVERPOOL FC’s new stadium could be hit by delays if the club bids to dramatically increase capacity.
New American owners Gillett and Hicks met planners last weeek and underlined their ambition to increase capacity of the new ground to 76,000. Liverpool FC Chief Executive Rick Parry today insisted construction deadlines would not change. News of massively improved plans will delight Reds fans. But any proposal to significantly increase seating would mean the club had to submit a fresh application. That would go before Liverpool planners - and could ultimately be “called in” by the government for scrutiny before any decision is made. A delay could hit the wider regeneration of Anfield, which is tied in with the stadium project. Euro cash to fund the restoration of Stanley Park and improve the community around the new ground must be spent by the end of next year at the latest.
A spokesman for Liverpool council said: “If there was an increase in [stadium] numbers, it would require the submission of a new planning application.”
Council leader Warren Bradley said: “It is early days yet. We met Liverpool last week and they did not say they wanted to change the scheme dramatically. But if that is what LFC as a commercial business wants to do, the council has to facilitate it.
“One of our greatest concerns is the people of Anfield and Breckfield. The cash we have drawn down for the project should be spent and not lost, and I look forward to a meeting with the new owners to discuss the matter further.”
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:23:44 AM
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azinorum
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Juventus chief: Liverpool's Gerrard our great dream
tribalfooball.com - March 16, 2007
Juventus chief Alessio Secco admits Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is their "great dream".
"Yes, Gerrard is our great dream," said Secco. "He's a phenomenon, but I doubt that Liverpool would be crazy enough to sell him."
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/16/2007 9:25:02 AM
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azinorum
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Liverpool to offer Crouch for Tottenham star Berbatov
tribalfooball.com - March 15, 2007
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is lining up a bid for Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov.
The Independent says Liverpool are weighing up an ambitious summer bid for Berbatov, which could involve Peter Crouch moving back to White Hart Lane. The chances of Liverpool landing the 26-year-old Bulgarian are, however, extremely slim.
Berbatov's agent, Emil Dantchev, was in London earlier this week and held talks with Spurs' sporting director, Damien Comolli. He is believed to have told Comolli that his client is not seeking a move and is happy to remain at Spurs for at least another season.
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RE: Anfield Forever - the Scouse corner - 3/17/2007 9:45:42 AM
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azinorum
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RAFA: TOP FOUR FINISH REMAINS OUR PRIORITY
Mark Platt 16 March 2007 - LFCTV
Rafael Benitez today stressed the importance of not letting Champions League progress get in the way of achieving a top four finish in the Premiership.
With a two-legged quarter-final tie against PSV Eindhoven to come at the start of next month Benitez and his players could be forgiven for having one eye on Europe.
But as Liverpool return to Premiership action with a trip to Aston Villa on Sunday the boss insists this is not the case.
"When you get so far in the Champions League, it can be difficult for players and supporters not to think about this. But everyone must be clear Aston Villa is a really important game for us.
"There is an international break after this, and then straight away we'll be back into the Champions League. We want to go into the break with confidence and in a good league position.
"The last time we were at this stage in both competitions we didn’t have the same quality in the whole squad. We can be strong in the Premiership and the Champions League now so I have more confidence this time.
"We have the players to manage with both competitions.
"We have done well to get to the quarter-final of the Champions League, but we also know how important it is to stay in the top four.
"We have worked hard all season to get into a top four position at this stage and now we will remain focused on staying there.
"There are a lot of important Premiership games to come. For me, finishing in the top four is still the first priority.
"Progression in the Champions League is also a target, but when you start every season you know it is really important to be as close as possible to the top of the table at the end. We still have a lot to play for.
"We know it will be difficult for us to catch Chelsea into second now, but there are a lot of games to play and we must do everything to be certain of being in the top four.
"We know everything changed when it comes to how much we could achieve in the Premiership this season when we lost to Manchester United.
"Had we won that game, we thought we could still get closer.
"Now, the target must change. There are teams near us like Bolton, so we must be sure we stay ahead of these teams in the top four and try to win every game we play, starting at Aston Villa."
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