Celebrating 200 Years of Railways: Their Crucial Role in English Football History
On September 27, 1825, approximately 450 passengers traveled 26 miles from Shildon to Stockton in northeastern England aboard the steam train named Active, averaging a speed of just 8 mph. This groundbreaking development not only transformed travel but also played a pivotal role in the evolution of English football.
The Interconnectedness of Railways and Football
In the 19th century, Britain was a leader in both railways and the burgeoning sport of football. The relationship between the two cannot be overstated, as three key factors fueled the rise of sport as a spectator activity during this era.
Firstly, the introduction of Saturday afternoons off for workers, thanks to the lobbying efforts of the Early Closing Association in the 1840s, opened up a new time slot for leisure activities, particularly sports. Secondly, the rise of the British press, which began catering to lower-middle-class audiences, significantly increased the popularity of sports coverage and drew more attention to football clubs. Lastly, the expansion of the railway network made it feasible for fans and players to travel across the country, enabling the growth of professional football.
Early Adventures in Rail Travel
The early rounds of professional competitions relied heavily on railways. As James Walvin noted in his social history of football, “Trains provided footballers with cheap and easy access to other teams around the country.” A notable instance occurred during the inaugural FA Cup in 1872, when Queens Park traveled from Glasgow to London for a semi-final match. However, the cost of rail travel was prohibitive, and after a goalless draw, Queens Park withdrew from the replay due to financial constraints.
Advocacy for reduced travel costs led to campaigns for football clubs to receive discounts for away journeys, though these efforts proved unsuccessful. While today’s teams often travel by road or air, many, like Manchester United, still opt for train journeys, particularly for matches in London.
Railways and Club Formation
The railways were not just instrumental in transporting fans; they also played a vital role in the formation of clubs. For instance, Harrogate Railway FC was established by railway workers in 1935, while Manchester United originated as Newton Heath LYR, founded by employees of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway. The railway even financed the lease on the club’s first ground.
Internationally, the influence extended to South America, where clubs like Penarol were formed by British railway workers. The ties between railways and football are evident in the very names of clubs, such as Crewe Alexandra, known as the Railwaymen, although they had to break away from railway employment restrictions to form a professional team.
Football Specials and Fan Culture
The concept of “football specials” emerged in the mid-20th century, with specific train services designed to transport fans to away matches at discounted prices. Notable examples include the 14 trains British Rail organized for Sunderland fans traveling to Wembley for the 1973 FA Cup final, carrying 7,000 supporters.
However, the golden age of football rail travel was not without its challenges. As hooliganism became prevalent, special trains became targets for both fans and rival supporters. This led to the introduction of the League Liner, a luxurious train service offering first-class travel, football videos, and even a disco carriage. Unfortunately, this service lasted only three years due to vandalism.
The Modern Era
As rail travel declined in favor of motor vehicles and the privatization of railways, the connection between football and railways has persisted. Today, many clubs still benefit from proximity to rail lines, making matches accessible for fans. However, logistical challenges remain, particularly with fixture scheduling that often leaves away fans stranded without public transport options post-match.
Despite these issues, the bond between railways and football endures. As England celebrates 200 years of rail travel, it’s essential to recognize how crucial this network has been in shaping the football landscape, connecting communities, and fueling the passion of fans.
