LL CITY O
L SUP
PO
ERS CLUB
HU
CIA
RT
I FF
TIGERMAG Hull City Official Supporters Club ISSUE NO. 42 - SPRING 2016
£2 WHERE SOLD
JOIN TODAY: HCOSC Member enjoy free access to regular ‘Meet the Players’ events at the KC Stadium
Inside This Issue:
ROB PALMER SKY SPORTS page 5 DYLAN’S STORY page 14 AMBER AIRWAVES page 16 BILLY BLY’S SWEET SHOP page 25 TAILS FROM TIGEROPOLIS page 32
GUNNING FOR THE BIG TIME The Tigers Arsenal loan star Isaac Hayden, sponsored by HCOSC. Read our exclusive interview on page 9.
TIGER CUBS
Can you find the hidden Tiger in this issue? With over 50 of the best high street stores and places to eat, why not visit St Stephen’s Shopping Centre
TIGERMAG 2
www.hullcityosc.com
DIRECTORS & OFFICERS President Sir Tom Courtney ....................................................................................... Honorary Vice President Tony Conway ....................................................................................... Chair Nadine Mathews chair@hullcityosc.co.uk ....................................................................................... Company Secretary Ron Black secretary@hullcityosc.co.uk +44(0) 7522 275108 ....................................................................................... Press Bernard Noble Press@hullcityosc.co.uk +44(0) 1803 525481 +44(0) 7749 408881 ....................................................................................... Marketing & Sponsorship Kathryn Townsley marketing@hullcityosc.co.uk +44 (0) 7740 096054 ....................................................................................... Membership Co-ordinator Trevor Richardson membership@hullcityosc.co.uk +44(0) 7910 290386 ....................................................................................... Branch & Fans Liaison Melvyn Utley branchliaison@hullcityosc.co.uk +44(0) 7722 912750 ....................................................................................... Tiger Cubs, Junior & Player Events Fiona Colling tigercubs@hullcityosc.co.uk +44(0) 7595 372678 ....................................................................................... Finance Officer John Barron finance@hullcityosc.co.uk ....................................................................................... Tigermag Editor Andy Moore tigermag@hullcityosc.co.uk ....................................................................................... Social Media Richard Uttley media@hullcityosc.co.uk .......................................................................................
CONTENTS Welcome From Fiona Colling
4
Sky’s The Limit Sky Sport’s’ Rob Palmer
5
Gunning For The Big Time
9
Isaac Hayden
Hull Rules A City of Culture Campaign
12
Dylan’s Story Young Irish eyes are smiling
14
Amber Airwaves
16
Competition winner Sid Needler goes behind the scenes with Radio Humberside
Tigers Trust Coaching in Sierra Leone
18
Memory Lane
19
Bradford City 0 Hull City 2
The Five-Minute Interview
23
Curtis Davies
Our Pet Cat is a Tiger
24
The Born Free Foundation
Young Sports Journo’
27
Academy Hopes
www.hullcityosc.com HCOSC @HCOSC_Official
Amber Trail
30
HU
FF
ICI
AL SUP
PO ERS CLUB
LL CITY O
Away-day pubs RT
Hull City Supporters Club Ltd. Kingston Communication Stadium The Circle, Walton Street Kingston Upon Hull (UK) East Yorkshire HU3 6HU
PAGE
Tigeropolis Cartoon feature
32
Membership
36
Join H.C.O.S.C.
TIGERMAG © Hull City Official Supporters Club (HCOSC) 2016 - Company No. 05006460. The views and opinions expressed within TIGERMAG are those of the individual contributors alone and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the HCOSC. HCOSC does not accept any liability for incorrect or inappropriate content but will do everything possible to ensure that accuracy and integrity is achieved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior agreement of HCOSC. HCOSC is the only supporters club officially recognised by Hull City AFC and Hull Tigers Ltd. Hull City AFC and Hull Tigers Ltd are not in any way responsible for the content of TIGERMAG.
Advertising: marketing@hullcityosc.co.uk Content: tigermag@hullcityosc.co.uk
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 3
A WARM OSC WELCOME From Fiona Colling
(Acting Chair)
It is a pleasure to welcome you to our latest edition of TigerMag. I will be a familiar face to many of you who attend our events and who visit the Arena Bar on match days. My primary role is Events Director, with the additional role of running the Tiger Cubs section. I am a passionate fund raiser for our charities which include CRY and Hull 4 Heroes. An active supporters group, needs to evolve and develop and the OSC is doing just that with regular player events, improved communications and news; including press conference insights and match reports. Looking at the last part of that sentence, it does not do justice to the hard work that is put in by our directors and officers, who produce these reports and the backroom team that gets them out to our members, well done to all involved. Supporters - writing for supporters. This edition of the TigerMag is also the first that has been edited by Andy Moore, a lifelong Hull City supporter, and it has plenty of fun with the Tigeropolis cartoon which introduces ‘Bittu’ to our readers young and old as well as some new features which we hope you will enjoy. An online version of TigerMag will be published at a later date, in addition to the traditional printed copy. Over time this will help increase our reach, improving revenue and give members a choice of formats. Speaking of which the new format of ‘Meet the Players’ events has been a big success. Feedback from those who have attended is very positive. Our busy events team also holds a popular monthly pub quiz night at the Green Dragon pub in Welton in aid of our chosen charity CRY – as advertised on page 39. Our charity fundraising continues and the number of good causes we support is increasing. At the time of writing the “Earn Your Stripes” scheme has not been fully published, the OSC has had meetings with the club, expressing our member’s and the supporting communities concerns. The club has responded and is currently reviewing the scheme. For the latest updates on this please check our website, we will keep you up to date when further details are available.
In the meantime enjoy your TigerMag!
TIGERMAG 4
www.hullcityosc.com
SKY’S THE LIMIT Rob Palmer “Sky Sport’s Rob Palmer was a rare kind of footballer - a box to box goalkeeper!” From a boyhood spent standing on a black and amber box supporting City from the terraces, to the lofty commentary boxes of Spain’s La Liga, Rob Palmer’s career is a fascinating local football story. Keeping Hull City in his heart all the way we’ve been reading about his journey, and thoughts on football in general, throughout the season in his entertaining column in the club’s official match programme. Rob has also been kind enough to submit himself to a question and answer session for Tigermag with Huge McAllister. HM. You mentioned your father took you to your first City game against Sheffield Wednesday. What year was that and did you ever imagine you would eventually get to watch City playing Premier League football in a new stadium and at a Wembley F.A. Cup Final? RP. My first season at Boothferry Park was 1969/70 as a wide eyed four year old. My dad was allowed to carry me over the turnstiles and I sat on his knee in the old main stand. My first real recollection must be around January 1970 when he took me out of Wold Road School at lunchtime to go to Boothferry Park to “choose” a seat for a season ticket. Being a Yorkshireman we moved to the North Stand as soon as I was strong enough to stand on the terraces as that was cheaper. My spot was on the railings directly behind the right goal post so I could study Jeff Wealands or Eddie Blackburn from warm up to full time. Me and my friend Mike ‘Mouse’ Milner were first into the ground for almost every home game. He had great credibility as his uncle of the same name played for City in the 60’s. I never dreamed of top flight football or Wembley which makes me smile when I hear the expectancy of the modern fans. HM. What are the other stand-out games of your childhood? Did you travel away to games? RP. The stand out games were always the ones with big travelling support. Usually Sunderland brought the most and noisiest. Most fondly remembered was Watford when Elton John arrived by helicopter after appearing on BBC1’s ‘Multi-Coloured Swap Shop’. I’d won a competition to be a junior reporter for a day with Radio Humberside and I got to meet him post game. I didn’t do many away games as I was young and these were dangerous times. My first away game was Southport, no problems there! But when I went with school parties to Grimsby we had the mini bus nicked and at Rotherham we were chased by hooligans.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 5
HM. From your early playing days in Hull what was your route through local football and Hull City to playing for Derby? RP. I wrote to Hull City when I was 10 asking for a trial and amazingly got an answer from Ken Houghton who was youth coach. He must have liked my cheek as I was invited to the club when I was 11 and playing for Hull Boys. These days schoolboy football is over-organised in my opinion, kids are signed too young. Back then the best 20 odd players between age 13 and 15 trained in the old Boothferry Park gym every Tuesday and Thursday. The club clearly hadn’t taken notice of my age because I was the youngest by two years. This carried on until I reached the under 15’s and I played a blinder for Hull Schools at Chesterfield. The Derby County youth coach Ron Webster approached our manager after the game but it was assumed I was on forms with the Tigers so he was sent away. In truth nobody had ever got around to getting me to sign any forms and my dad chased it up. At that time Derby was still a big club and it was only 4 years since they were Champions of England. Derby offered me schoolboy forms and guaranteed after school an apprenticeship and a year’s professional forms. Sadly Hull City was broke and facing administration at that period so nothing could be offered. Apparently it was discussed at board level when a new Youth Development Officer, Bobby Brown was appointed. HM. What was it like working with Tony Norman and John Davies and the other goalkeepers at City? RP. When I was released by Derby, Bobby Brown and Chris Chilton kindly offered me the chance to train back at Hull City. The club was going through hard times and I think we only had 13 pros so an extra body was useful. I was delighted to join in and usually had to play outfield to make up the numbers. I remember marking Brian Marwood (a mismatch in pace) in training and asked to mark Billy Whitehurst (I still have the scars). In those days there was no specialised goalkeeper training so Tony Norman and John Davies would invite me to join them for a warm up but that was about it. I think the only time we had any goalkeeper training was when Emlyn Hughes arrived and he took us over to Francis Askew’s pitches for some reason. Maybe it was to do with his coaching badges? Tony and Gunner were great support though and I was welcomed into the Hull branch of the Goalkeeper’s Union. HM. Did you ever get to throw oranges to Ian McKechnie? RP. I didn’t throw oranges at Ian. Somewhere I do have several of his autographs from hours of standing in the old tunnel at Boothferry. You used to be able to stand right next to the door of the home team changing room and I can still sense the smell of when a player emerged. HM. Goalkeepers were your main City heroes but what other players, staff and characters at the club left an impression? I assume Billy Whitehurst comes to mind in a literal sense! RP. Chilton and Wagstaff were my early heroes. Wealands and Blackburn the goalkeepers I emulated in the pitches of Wold Road and Springhead. Billy Whitehurst, if I’m totally honest doesn’t make my favourites. He was ‘tolerated’ by other players and I’m maybe affected because he once splattered me into a wall in the gym. “You’ve had the initiation” is what Tony Norman said as he wiped away the blood! HM. You watched your boyhood games from behind the North Stand goal. Where you behind the goal the day George Lyall broke his leg against Bolton? (I also seem to remember a giant Sam Allardyce playing). RP. As mentioned my weekly spot was behind the North Stand goal, almost under the clock. I vaguely remember George Lyall breaking his leg. I remember his ability to shoot from 20 yards and the Chris Galvin step-over. Bettered only by Ronaldo!
TIGERMAG 6
www.hullcityosc.com
HM. Do you miss Boothferry Park? Are you a traditionalist when it comes to ground names, team names and colours? RP. Yes I miss the nostalgia of Boothferry Park and the years of memories. Whenever I go to Goodison it reminds me of Boothferry but I immediately realise how outdated Everton’s ground is and how they need a stadium like the KC! The Tigers badge still evokes all kinds of emotions. I remember the embossed badge on the front of the envelope inviting me to a trial. There was no other writing, just the Tiger crest. HM. Goalkeepers were your main City heroes but what other players, staff and characters at the club left an impression? I assume Billy Whitehurst comes to mind in a literal sense! RP. Chilton and Wagstaff were my early heroes. Wealands and Blackburn the goalkeepers I emulated in the pitches of Wold Road and Springhead. Billy Whitehurst, if I’m totally honest doesn’t make my favourites. He was ‘tolerated’ by other players and I’m maybe affected because he once splattered me into a wall in the gym. “You’ve had the initiation” is what Tony Norman said as he wiped away the blood! HM. How did playing in the USA come about? What kind of experience was it playing there?. RP. Long story but in short... In 1983 the then Hull City Secretary Bobby Brown was helping me to find a club. An associate of his called Chris Wright, also an ex Hull City Juniors keeper (Stu Pearson era), was General Manager at Pittsburgh Spirit. He passed my name around and out of the blue a college team in Connecticut offered an incredible package. HM. What were the U.S. crowds like in those early days? RP. They were surprisingly knowledgeable in the US and we had a good cosmopolitan team. My room- mate Juan Carlos Osorio is now the Mexican National Team Manager. HM. ITV’s Brian Moore used to judge grounds on the meat pies. He loved them at Boothferry Park. What’s your rating system? RP. Pies too! Also ease of parking. I suppose after Hull City I’ve just talked Burnley into a good position. HM. From your early BBC Radio Humberside days how quickly did you learn to be a balanced, neutral commentator especially with City games - assuming you think you are!? RP. It’s amazing how you learn to become neutral. The passion never dies but the ability to stay impartial is learned early on. HM. Do you have team rivalries among your colleagues? RP. The only rivalry is in our house where Mrs P refers to the Manchester Millionaires as “City”. I tell her there’s only one City! City ‘Ull. HM. Which commentators from other sports do you admire? RP. Ian Darke is excellent on boxing. I love the golf commentary. People ask if I could commentate on golf as I have a real passion for the game but I don’t have the background knowledge of the top guys. HM. How does it compare covering games in the lower leagues and top grounds? Which are the good ones and which are the difficult places to broadcast from? RP. The lower leagues are great as you are generally close to the fans. The smaller the club, the more hospitable, I find. The most unusual was Morecambe who improvised a commentary position. We discovered it was a modern Perspex bike shelter bolted to the roof.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 7
HM. What other teams and grounds have you gained affection for on your travels? RP. I just love Accrington Stanley. Great noisy fans, no pretence, proper club. Tranmere is my local club and it is a club with soul as well. HM. Do you think broadcasters consider the travelling fans enough when deciding which teams are covered- and more particularly when? RP. We are unique in this country that we have travelling fans. I do think more should be done to take them (and commentators) into account. How many times does the last train go before a game ends? Didn’t they used to run “specials” to the old Boothferry Park Station?
HM. Sky Sport’s Soccer AM and Soccer Saturday have quickly become part of the nation’s football fabric. Have you enjoyed being part of it? RP. It’s amazing - 20 years. The Soccer Saturday crew are great. The show is just an extension of the bar chat from the night before.
HM. As you’ve come across people who seem to think commentating is just a privileged free ticket to watch a game do you regard social media as a blessing or a curse in your job? RP. They’re not wrong! It is a privilege. Those who succeed do completely commit to the profession though. TV commentary research takes so much time. The other downside is not getting a Saturday or Sunday off from August to June as I commentate every Sat/Sun night and many Fridays and Mondays. But I never, ever complain. Watching a game of football for a living!? HM. Do you enjoy broadcasting La Liga games? Is it a very different football culture to British football from both the point of view of fans and as a broadcaster? RP. I absolutely enjoy La Liga. I first covered games at Granada TV in 1992 and took up the opportunity at Sky. Our generation didn’t see the greats; Cruyff, Pele, Maradona until the World Cup. This generation have grown up seeing Messi, Ronaldo etc. every single week in their prime. I always say they are entertainingly indisciplined. HM. Are you optimistic about Hull City’s future? RP. The club is in dreamland compared to what we went through in the 70s and 80s. Amazing ground, facilities, best manager in the club’s history and strong infrastructure. Some still moan but they haven’t experienced what ‘supporting’ a penniless and sinking club was like. HM. ill you ever get to commentate on Hull City in a European Final!? RP. European Cup Final? I’d be happy to see the club back in the Premier League to coincide with 2017. The promotion of the city and the football club go hand in hand. Sometimes I feel there’s an inferiority complex locally and for no reason whatsoever. Hull is a major city, and Hull City are our greatest ambassadors.
TIGERMAG 8
www.hullcityosc.com
GUNNING FOR THE BIG TIME Impressed by the work we’ve been doing over the last year, particularly with our Tiger Cubs, an anonymous HCOSC member has kindly arranged for us to sponsor upcoming talent and Arsenal loanee, Isaac Hayden, for the remainder of the season. For that we offer our huge and grateful thanks. We sent John Williams to meet Isaac for another exclusive interview. JW. Born in Essex and on Arsenals books, you have spent a good bit of time in London and at a Premier League club, how are you finding it living and working in Hull and the East Riding? IH. Yes it’s different I must admit. It’s taken a little while to get used to, I think it’s more the lifestyle, it’s completely different. The football when you get into your training is no different but when you leave the training ground gates and you go home the period of time between going home and going to sleep is completely different. It’s nothing like you would do back home in London, obviously there is not as much to do here. There’s not as many friends, family, girlfriend etc so it’s a bit different and you have to use your time a bit more and do other things. I read quite a bit and have been on the driving range a couple of times. It takes time to get used to it, obviously back home after training you can go out with friends or go out for dinner. It is not a negative, it just means you’re focusing on football a lot more, the emphasis is much more on the football here than it would be back home. It has been a very good experience so far and I think it has made me a better person. JW. You have represented England at U16, U17, U18, U19 and U20, did you see coming to Hull as the next stage in your development? IH. Yes I was a bit blocked at Arsenal to be honest; it’s the same with a lot of youngsters particularly at the top 4 clubs, unless you get lucky in terms of a player in your position in the first team getting injured. Obviously it’s not lucky for him but like if there is an injury, a suspension or there is a massive loss of form, that’s the only way you’re going to get a chance. Then that might be just one game and then the next game you’re out, so it’s very difficult to get a stable progression when you play for Arsenal. I needed somewhere where I could showcase what I can do and I think that was going to be somewhere on loan, I thinking coming here was the right thing to do. JW. Is there a big difference between Arsene Wenger and Steve Bruce in the way they have managed you on a personal level? IH. Yes there is a big difference. When I was at Arsenal with the boss I think he is a bit more afar. He sits back and watches and observes from a distance so I did not have much contact with him. You know he is there but he keeps his cards to himself. However let’s remember I was only a young player it might be he has a lot more to do with the senior players. Here at Hull I think I feel much more a part of the team than I did there, if feels more like home here. Steve Bruce is very much hands on. He will talk in training or call you into his office for a chat. He is on the pitch talking, giving help and advice all the time. On a personal front he encourages me to push forward and to use the whole pitch. At Arsenal I had a very specific role, here at Hull I feel the shackles are off.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 9
JW. All players just want to play football and will play wherever the manager says but where on the pitch do you enjoy playing the most? IH. I love playing the centre of midfield; I would say that’s my best position. I think it’s been a learning curve here at City because at Arsenal we always played three in midfield, whereas here we have mainly played two, so there is a lot more responsibility on you. So for me that has been the main learning curve, but I think I have taken to it well and adapted to it. I am learning every time I play and with every minute of game time I get, so for me I think it’s been a good experience. JW. You opened your account when you scored the 6th goal in the game against Charlton that must have been a great feeling, and one that you would like to get used to? IH. Yes it’s been one of those things I have been working on quite hard in training, on finishing and adding things to my game. When I came here at the beginning I don’t think I had the confidence to shoot more or create things or be an attacking type of player. I think the manager has almost given me a new burst of confidence since I arrived. At Arsenal they tended to use me more in a defensive capacity. They didn’t cap me but they almost made me a disciplined sort of player that only had this fixed array of skills. Whereas I have come here and the manager has given me such great confidence that’s almost forced me into a completely new player. I feel I have had more licence to do things and it’s given me the confidence to express myself a bit more. I think I have shown that in the games I’ve played, in that I can break forward, I can create chances, I can cross, I can shoot. I think I have become more of an all-action player since I have come here, where before I was more a disciplined holding midfielder; get it and pass it 5 yards. I have come here and I have been able to just go and play and I feel freer on the pitch. I have not been labelled as a player here, I have been given the licence and the freedom to improve my game and that is the main difference. JW. You have been cited as composed on the ball, an intelligent player, strong in the tackle and capable of playing in central midfield or in in the heart of defence, but where in your mind do you feel you need to improve your game? IH. I think my game needs to improve in an attacking sense even more. I just think working on the final ball, more intelligent runs and things like that. I think defensively my game has improved massively in terms of tackling and interceptions. The next stage this season is to work on my attacking senses. The Manager has given me a lot more freedom to express myself and the confidence to break forward and create things. I have been working more on that side since I have been here and I have seen a massive difference in myself from when I first came, compared to the player I am now, I feel like I create a lot more chances, I am a lot more involved in play going forward, where as before I was just defensive.
TIGERMAG 10
www.hullcityosc.com
JW. As a young English player, who has gone through the system to become a professional footballer, you have undoubtedly worked very hard, had the support of your family and probably had a few lucky breaks as well. But having experienced all that first-hand what are your views on the numbers of overseas players plying their trade in the UK? IH. It is frustrating but for me it almost makes me or the young English players work a lot harder, or should make them work harder. Clubs are bringing in players who are 15 or 16 from all over the world and obviously you are fighting against them for professional contracts or for a chance. At Arsenal I had several young overseas players to compete against, so for me it helps raise my game. If you work hard you can do it, the competition pushed me along where sometimes some young players see foreign lads coming in and think “oh they’re going to take my place”. Some young players just don’t have the drive to succeed and if it doesn’t work the first time, or the second time, they then think “oh it’s not meant to be”. If you really want it enough you go for it, but you have to work hard. There have been times this season where I have had 6 or 7 games in a row where I haven’t played. It doesn’t mean I’m going to just sit there, not going to train hard or I’m not going to do extra work because that is not the type of player I am. I want to improve, I want to be a better player and any chance I get to train I will take it. The problem with a lot of young players these days is they get things quickly and then when they do get those things they just almost expect them to carry on regardless. It’s like a lifestyle thing going on, if they get things given to them at 16 or 17 they still think that at 20 they will simply reach the next level. It doesn’t happen like that, you have to work; you have to work very hard to get to the next level. Some players get things and they think “great - job done”. I just want to be the best player that I can be and if I am not playing I have to train harder. That’s what I need to do to get another chance to play and that’s just the way I am, I will always be that type of player, I want to be the best player I possibly can. JW. Obviously Arsenal is a big club with some of the biggest names in football and, as you’ve said, it’s very difficult to become a regular in the first team. Where do you think you will be playing football next season? IH. To be fair the manager has said before he would like to sign me and that is a general consideration I am looking at now. This is because I look at the Arsenal squad and as much as I am a fan of Arsenal, obviously I have played for them and I like them a lot and I have played for them for 5 or 6 years but I have to be realistic. I have to ask myself; am I really going to be a first team contender week in week out at the club? I need to be honest with myself I have to look at myself in the mirror and say you’re not going to be that person, unless they have 4 or 5 injuries in that position and then I might get a chance but when those players are back will I be back on the bench? The perfect scenario is if we get promoted and then if the manager wants me I would jump at the chance. Even if we don’t get promoted I think it would still be a consideration, the manager has given me a lot of freedom, he has unshackled me, the lads have been great, the staff have been brilliant. I have also spoken to Chuba Akpom about his other loans and his experiences at other clubs and he says this is one of the best, if not the best. So for me I have been lucky for this to have been my first experience out on loan.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 11
HULL RULES
A Project for 2017 – UK City of Culture Ebenezer Cobb Morley, the founding father of the Football Association, was born in Hull in 1831. His letter to Bell’s Life highlighting the need for a unified rulebook and his subsequent writing of The Rules of Association Football in 1863 have recently been recognised and celebrated with television programmes, and a BBC radio play. The original document, known as the ‘minute book’, has also been displayed at various locations following the FA’s 150th anniversary in 2013. Yet it has never been displayed in Morley’s birthplace. Although Morley was living in London, having moved there in 1854, it seems that he maintained strong links to his home town because in 1863, just six months before the founding of the FA, he and three friends rowed from London to Hull. They covered 300 miles of canals and rivers, negotiating 148 locks along the way – arriving in Hull via the Ouse and the Humber. During the same year Hull was celebrating the wedding of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Commemorations included the unveiling of a statue of Queen Victoria in the recently opened Pearson’s Park. There were many factors that contributed to Morley’s determination to introduce a single set of rules. The factory act of 1850 stated that all work must end by 2pm on Saturdays leading to an explosion in sporting participation. Playing football on the street was outlawed and in towns and cities teams where formed and games played to a variety of rules. Unlike in public schools and rural areas, finding a place for a pitch was not always easy. Shrove Tuesday games often involved large crowds of players.
Hull had its own regional variation of the more documented Sheffield rules. Notable differences included the prevention of players mounting the crossbar. Running with the ball was only allowed after a catch. At this time matches between teams from different areas were often played under two sets of rules. One half played under the home team’s rules and the other half under the opposition’s rules (a game of two halves?!). Some games ended when a team scored more than one goal. Trades, churches and schools formed teams and later became formalised football clubs. Hull FC being formed in 1865 played Rugby football. A game played in 1867 between Bramham College and Hull was also most likely played under Rugby rules. Hull City AFC formed later in 1904 by which time the rules of association football and the FA Cup, under which Hull City contested their first competitive match, had become firmly established, thanks to Morley’s foresight some 21 years earlier. Now, a small group of like minded football fans from Hull have formed a campaign group under the banner of ‘Hull Rules’ with the aim of bringing Morley’s hand written minute book to Hull for display during the City of Culture year – a hugely ambitious aim, but one that feels like common sense. With the opening quarter of 2017 having been titled ‘Made in Hull’ to celebrate the great things and great people the city has produced Hull Rules are determined to showcase Morley’s historic achievement alongside those of fellow Hullensians such as William Wilberforce and Amy Johnson. Morley’s contribution to the game has touched millions of lives and continues to influence the modern game in every corner of the world. Set out on the next page are those original 13 rules written by hand in 1863 by a man born and raised in Hull.
TIGERMAG 12
www.hullcityosc.com
The Rules of Association Football 1863
Rule one: The maximum length of the ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth shall be 100 yards. The length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and the goals shall be defined by two upright posts, 8 yards apart, without any tape or bar across them. Rule two: The winner of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall be commenced by a place kick from the centre of the ground by the side losing the toss, the other side shall not approach within 10 yards of the ball until it is kicked off. Rule three: After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off and goals shall be changed. Rule four: A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal posts or over the space between the goal posts (at whatever height), not being thrown, knocked on, or carried Rule five: When the ball is in touch the first player who touches it shall throw it from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at right angles with the boundary line and it shall not be in play until it has touched the ground Rule six: When a player has kicked the ball any one of the same side who is nearer to the opponent’s goal line is out of play and may not touch the ball himself nor in any way whatever prevent any other player from doing so until the ball has been played; but no player is out of play when the ball is kicked from behind the goal line Rule seven: In case the ball goes behind the goal line, if a player on the side to whom the goal belongs first touches the ball, one of his side shall be entitled to a free kick from the goal line at the point opposite the place where the ball shall be touched. If a player of the opposite side first touches the ball, one of his side shall be entitled to a free kick (but at the goal only) from a point 15 yards from the goal line opposite the place where the ball is touched. The opposing side shall stand behind their goal line until he has had his kick Rule eight: If a player makes a fair catch he shall be entitled to a free kick, provided he claims it by making a mark with his heel at once; and in order to take such kick he may go as far back as he pleases, and no player on the opposite side shall advance beyond his mark until he has kicked Rule nine: No player shall carry the ball Rule ten: Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use his hands to hold or push his adversary. Rule eleven: A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another Rule twelve: No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is in play under any pretence whatever. Rule thirteen: No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha [rubber resin] on the soles or heels of his boots.
More details of the Hull Rules project will be released later in the year.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 13
DYLAN’S STORY
Where it all began for Dylan Mooney. It’s 2014 and our son, 2 ½ year old, Dylan Mooney decides he wants to be like his big brother and start to collect ‘Match Attax’ football cards of his own. It starts off with excitement of getting packs of cards, then all of a sudden it turns into an obsession. Not about getting cards but getting cards for one particular team, Hull City! Living in Ireland we actually can’t explain why he chose Hull City but whenever he got a new pack the first question before they even got opened was “are there Hull cards in this one?”. Cheers of excitement rose with each pack. Dylan is surrounded by Manchester United and Everton supporters who all questioned his choice of team and tried to sway him in different directions. Well it’s safe to say they tried and failed. So the kit was ordered with ‘Mooney’ on the back and that was that. His support grew stronger through 2015 (despite relegation) he understood more about the team and the game itself. Every win was met with cheers and losses didn’t go down too well. His new kit was ordered in 2015 and he was thrilled. Christmas morning Mammy and Daddy surprised him with a trip to see Hull City’s home game against Charlton on 16th January. The day came and Dylan was woken at 5.45am, he hopped out of the bed and we drove off to Dublin airport. A flight to Leeds, a train to Hull and a taxi later we arrived at the KC. He was in awe at the sight of the stadium, a bit surreal and overwhelming for him to say the least. He shied away when it came to photos with the players, but there’s always next year. So off we went to the Airco Arena before the match. Well, we were not expecting such a reception when we arrived. Dylan was treated like a little celebrity by the Official Supporters Club and fellow supporters alike. He really opened up and smiled confidently the whole time. He enjoyed chatting to all the people who came over to him and loved representing Ireland in a photo taken by Bernard Noble and joining ex-Tiger Steve Moran for a photo too. He left after an hour with his hands full of Hull City goodies and an enormous smile on his face. Off we went to the KC ready to watch his team play from the front row in the South Stand. The match kicked off and he shouted and cheered the whole time. Well what a match to attend, we won 6-0 (the score Dylan had predicted at about 11 am on the train from Leeds). Dylan was one happy little supporter when he got back to the hotel later that evening. Without doubt we will be returning next year and will be visiting all his OSC pals again in the Airco Arena before the match. If City go back up we might even try get to see Hull City take on Manchester Utd at the KC so that he can show his Red Devils supporting Daddy and brother what’s what! Will another 6-0 win be on the cards for City? Watch this space...
TIGERMAG 14
www.hullcityosc.com
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 15
Amber Airwaves By Sid Needler
Back in January HCOSC caption competition winner Anthony (Sid) Needler joined David Burns & Peter Swan behind the scenes of BBC Radio Humberside during their live coverage of Hull City’s 2-0 home win over Cardiff City. I normally sit in the East Stand but having been informed that I had won a caption competition run by the HCOSC I was over the moon to learn that my prize Sid, on the right, meets the BBC Radio Humberside Team would be to spend some time on the West Stand as the guest of Radio Humberside during their coverage of a home match. What a unique privilege and insight it was to see what goes on behind the scenes of presenting radio commentary at a live game. So here we are, its 95.9FM, 1485AM, Radio Humberside with ‘Burnsy & Swanny’, Simon Clark ...and me! As Van (the man) Morrison used to sing, I’m adjustin’, gentler than a man, I am down on my knees at those wireless knobs. There are cables and microphones everywhere but you can forget ‘Telefunken’ and I’m not searching for Luxembourg or Athlone, Budapest, AFN, Hilversum or Helvetia. Instead I spent the night with the voices of those air waves we all love to hear when City are playing; commentaries from Burnsy and Swanny! As it turned out it was a great night for the Tigers, beating Cardiff City with ease and my broadcasting hosts were entertaining to say the least. It was a privilege to see what goes on when Radio Humberside present their Sports Scene programme and to enjoy the live commentary. Pre-match Burnsy gave me an insight to his preparation for the match. We met Cardiff manager Russell Slade and were able to converse with him. I was present at the interview with Josh Tymon, the Hull born left-back, who’d just been called up for the England under 17’s and hopefully he’ll make it with City in the future.
Burnsey interviews Steve Bruce and Sam Clucas
TIGERMAG 16
www.hullcityosc.com
The match wasn’t the most enthralling and with my hosts digressing to keep the listeners entertained their attentions centred on Cardiff’s No.5 Bruno Manga who cost them £5m but on the night couldn’t put a foot right, which amused Burnsy and Swanny. It was his miss-kick that led to the corner and the subsequent foul by ex-City loanee Lee Peltier on Maguire which enabled Hernandez to score from the penalty spot. From our position high up in the West Sand it was like watching Subbuteo players and the formations they were playing. We never got out of first gear. After the game there was time to meet and listen to the post-match interviews with both Steve Bruce and Sam Clucas. Something I picked up on listening to Burnsy is one of his little sayings; he often repeats it and I’ve heard it when he commentates and City aren’t doing so well.
Oh Dear, Dear, Dear (Mr. Burns) Like the Humber, life ebbs and flows And we all have our highs and lows Listening to Mr. Burns and Mr. Swan, Can their comments go awry, (Can they?) But we hear that little cry, that little sigh Coming across the air waves, “Oh dear, dear, dear” And we know there’s going to be no cheer: Another slip up and City are behind again, At times following the Tigers is so unkind! Like a Vampire’s kiss, you’re never the same And we know that football is a funny old game, We hear it often from Mr. Burns and Mr. Swan Their knowledge, wit and humour they apply And then comes that familiar little sigh That we don’t want to hear, “Oh dear, dear, dear” We are overcome with that chilling fear, Our worst nightmare, there’s been another blunder, Oh dear, dear, dear, we listen and wonder?
Caption competition winner “You’re never out foxed when you have Tiger feet!” Anthony’s winning caption. Photo care of Sportinglife.com Sean Maloney: Hull v Leicester.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 17
FROM HULL TO SIERRA LEONE Tigers Trust to work with local coaches
Tigers Sport and Education Trust was founded in 1990 under the name of Hull City Football in the Community, with support from the Professional Footballers Association. We rebranded in 2007 to highlight our charitable status. Sport is a proven method of tackling a wide range of issues e.g. health, unemployment and crime. The high profile association with professional football confirms we have an important role to play within our community. The Tigers Sport and Education Trust seek to promote sporting values across all ages, through such programmes as junior soccer schools and adult fitness initiatives. Recently three Tigers Trust coaches spent ten days in March improving coaching standards in the former war-torn Sierra Leone, a country which shares strong links with the city of Hull. The visit was part of the Premier Skills Coach Education Programme, an initiative which seeks to develop high quality coaching throughout the footballing world, both in the UK and overseas. Ollie Ezard, who took part in a similar project in China last year, commented “It’s a fantastic opportunity to improve the coaching on offer to these areas. There should never be a barrier to playing this sport, wherever you are in the World.” Mr. Ezard was joined by Richard Dexter and Ryan McGregor, completing the three-strong coaching team, who focused on enhancing the skills and confidence of local coaches, with the hope of enhancing standards for years to come. The coaches have driven up a campaign to get as much Hull City kit and football boots as possible to donate to football teams in Freetown. The three have been inundated with donations and have had to pay for more luggage allowance, which is a phenomenal effort from the local community thank you to all those who helped out with donations.
Our Aim
We aim to make a difference by involving people in sport and promoting the values linked to sporting success. www.tigerstrust.co.uk
Ollie Ezard, Richard Dexter and Ryan McGregor pictured before heading to Sierra Leone.
TIGERMAG 18
Regular Soccer Schools are popular with the stars of the future.
www.hullcityosc.com
MEMORY LANE
By Brendon Smurthwaite
Bradford City 0 – Hull City 2 10th April 2005 Scorers: Elliott, Barmby. Att: 13,631 After the promotion joy of 2003/04, did anyone genuinely think that it was a feat which could be repeated the following season? I can’t speak for other people, but I certainly didn’t. But by the time April of the 2004/05 season came around the feat was most definitely on. Travelling to Bradford City on that Sunday morning I was thinking that a victory would put the club in an incredibly strong position to achieve back to back promotions. Seeing so many Tigers’ supporters there that day was a sight to behold in itself and it did feel like a home game. If you speak to any of the players who were involved, they’d tell you the same. The early goal from Stuart Elliott settled everyone’s nerves and when you look back now, it was a game that Peter Taylor’s men were never going to lose from the 4th minute onwards. Not that I’d have been thinking that at the time, tucked away in the press box writing my match report for the club website! Nick Barmby’s 68th minute striker dispelled any fears of the job not getting done and what a goal that was.
That was probably the moment when everyone truly believed that the club were going up into the Championship. When Peter Taylor spoke to the media afterwards he trotted out the party line about there still being a long way to go (which is what all managers would do in that situation) but if you speak to him now, he’d tell you that he remembers that as the day when he knew his team were to become historymakers. We all now know that he was right and 11 years on I still barely remember any of the game itself. I guess I saw that many games during 10 years with the club that it’s difficult to remember them all! I do have a great memento from that day though – Nick Barmby’s playing shirt. He brought it into our office on the Monday morning and it now has pride of place on a wall at home. It’s signed to me personally but even if it wasn’t, I’d never have considered letting it go. Heck, it still has the grass stains on it! I have a few signed shirts but that is a personal favourite and whenever I climb the stairs at home it reminds me of a memorable season which I’ll certainly never forget. Happy days indeed!
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 19
Fans Enjoying the pre-match atmosphere at The Airco Arena bar
Ex-Tigers night at Welton Memorial Club
TIGERMAG 20
Pre-match Ex-Tiger interviews at The Airco Arena bar
Live sports and a place to meet before games The Airco Arena bar
www.hullcityosc.com
Fine Dining - The HSOSC Casino Royale Night
Meeting Roary
The HSOSC Casino Royale Night
The OSC Christmas Panto - New Walton Club
The OSC Christmas Panto - so busy Roary couldn’t find a seat
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 21
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU... DAVID PYE – (56 on 2nd April). Saw his first match in 1969 v Fulham at
Boothferry Park, city won 4-0 thanks to Malcolm Lord and a hat-trick from Ken Wagstaff. Naturally he’s been going ever since!
SUZY BUNTON – (45 on 7th April) is pictured here with husband Ian, son
Thomas (13) and daughter Charlotte (15). The Buntons are attending every City game this season for their book ‘46 and Counting: A Family Journey’ Available to buy in all good book shops from June. IAN BUNTON – (47 on 29th April) attended his first City game back in October 1977. Two Alan Warboys goals saw off Spurs 2-0.
MARC IZZARD – (42 on 3rd May) is pictured with his terrier ‘Wilf’, Marc is
a season ticket holder who travels from Wakefield to support the Tigers and goes to away matches when possible. Wilf stays at home and is rumoured to be a Huddersfield Town fan. ...ok, we made that last bit up, sorry Marc!
The OSC’s KATHRYN TOWNSLEY – won’t tell us how old she is so you’ll have to guess! Born on 25th April ‘a while back’, her first game was 2-2 draw with Shrewsbury Town at Boothferry Park 12 Dec 1987. Thank goodness City drew as she’d gone with her then boyfriend who’d threatened to send her back with Shrewsbury if we lost! Favourite game: “the one where Alex Bruce had Luis Suarez in his pocket!” Hull City 3 Liverpool 1 Sunday 1st Dec 2013. CAROL DIANE WALKINGTON – from Bridlington turns 66 on the 13th April. She’s a season pass holder in the upper west stand and her stand out memory is the nerve-racking wait at the KC for the Watford v Leeds result. The agonising delay was due to an injury to Watford goalkeeper Jonathan Bond. Thankfully Leeds beat Watford 2-1, handing City automatic promotion.
NEVER FORGOTTEN – Rob Brown Over the last few months the Tiger Nation has lost some cherished individuals and, as ever, TigerMag and the OSC celebrates all those who have sadly left us to watch city from high above the KC. As this is the first edition of TigerMag since the death of inspirational South-Stander Rob Brown we feel it is only right to pay our own small tribute. Rob sadly passed away in January following a three-year battle with leukaemia, aged just 21. His passing was impeccably marked by his fellow supporters who held the loudest minute of applause possible on 21 minutes of the Charlton Athletic home game. One of Rob’s big passions in life was following the team’s fortunes which he did from a young age along with the rest of his family. The 6-0 win that day and the respect fellow City fans showed one of their own was an exceptional tribute to a wonderful young man. Got something to share in the July edition? Email: Tigermag@hullcityosc.co.uk
TIGERMAG 22
www.hullcityosc.com
The Five-Minute Interview: Curtis Davies On a cold and wet February evening John Williams grabbed five minutes with defender Curtis Davies for another exclusive interview. JW. It’s now the busy end of the season, do you thrive on the pressure or does it get to you? CD. I would say we thrive on it, we put pressure on ourselves and right from the beginning of the season we put pressure on ourselves to get in this situation and obviously we would have liked to have been storming it, but we know there are strong teams in this league and the main thing is we are there or thereabouts with a strong fully fit team, ready for the challenge. JW. We are having trouble shaking off the pack though aren’t we? Would you agree it’s going to be a really exciting finish to the season for the fans? CD. Yes it will be; we have a lot of games we believe we can win and we believe that we will pick up enough points in the remaining games to get up. JW. So your confidence is high, you have been in this situation before of course but does that confidence run right through the squad? CD. Yes it runs right through the squad because we believe in ourselves, we know full well we do have a good squad. We have a very similar squad to what we had in the Premier League so we know what it takes, what is required, and we therefore believe we can get over the line. It’s just when the nitty gritty comes it’s sometimes you want to play well and do everything right but it’s just about getting the result now. It’s the dirty time of the season; you’re not really bothered how it’s done as long as you get three points. I am not saying by any means we’re going to become a long ball team or anything like that but whatever it takes to get over the line, if through scruffy goals, own goals, whatever it takes. JW. Fans are getting quite nervous now, it is getting close but that goal is so important this year for the stability of the club as a whole, obviously the rewards are huge. CD. Yes it is for all of us. I know people go on about the money, the Premier League money is going up for the clubs which obviously for Hull City is massive because with that level of money the club could take itself to a new level and try and stabilise themselves as a Premier League club rather than a club that goes up and down, a yo-yo club. For ourselves as players we just want to get in the Premier and play it because there is no better opportunity than the first time because after that it is very difficult, people have worked you out. It’s best to get up the first time and hopefully play in the Premier League a long time. JW. You and the squad have a lot of experience but there is a lot of youth as well. Do you think they’re struggling with the pressure at all, or do they have no fear? CD. When you talk about the youth we have Moses Odubajo who is one of the youngest as such but he has played so many games. He is used to a game Tuesday, game Saturday and the pressure games. He has played in the play-off final with Leyton Orient. Andy Robertson has played for his country and scored against England, so he has been in these big games. So I don’t think that the run-in to the Championship will cause them any fear. Then there are the Arsenal boys they want to get us up and they want to be a part of it. But they’re relaxed about it, they just want to enjoy playing and put on a good performance for us so they can look good when they go back to Arsene Wenger. JW. That’s great Curtis thank you so much for your time and the best of luck from everyone at the Hull City Officials Supporters Club.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 23
OUR PET CAT IS A TIGER! We’re not joking; our cat really is a Tiger – but he’s nobody’s pet, thanks to the Born Free Foundation. Long standing members may recall that HCOSC plays a small part in supporting the conservation of wild Tigers? (and no we’re not talking about ex-players here!). HCOSC sponsor a magnificent male tiger called ‘Roque’ through the Born Free Foundation, which has estimated there to be fewer than 3000 wild tigers left in the world today. Roque is an amazing tiger. He lives at the Born Free sanctuary in Bannerghatta, Southern India. Born in 1998 he lives in a big forest enclosure and keeps cool in his deep pool, but Roque’s happy life had a very sad beginning. He was only a few days old when he was taken from his mother and smuggled out of the country before being put on sale in a pet-shop in Barcelona. The tiny cub was scared and lonely. He was kept in a small glass tank and paced up and down, crying for his mum. Born Free doesn’t think it is a good idea to keep wild animals as pets. It is very difficult to properly care for them, they belong in the wild. Born Free rescued Roque and brought him to Bannerghatta. The cute and cuddly cub has grown into a big and impressive adult. He enjoys patrolling his territory and investigates the forest and the insects, lizards and small mammals that live there. His favourite place is beneath a large bush high up on a rocky bank beside his pool, where he gets a great view of the countryside. How different life could have been for him if he’s ended up in a circus or kept as a pet, caged up all day. HCOSC is proud to support the work of the Born Free Foundation in our own small way. If you’d like to learn more about Roque and the amazing work undertaken by Born Free please visit www.bornfree.org.uk The Tigeropolis series of books produced by Belle Media (see page 32) also supports tiger conservation by raising awareness of the issues faced by wild tigers and through the aptly named ‘Tiger Nation’ an online community dedicated to informing the world about the dangers faced by tigers. Tiger Nation uses ID technology to identify and track tigers by using their unique stripe patterns. Updates and sighting are posted on www.tigernation.org
TIGERMAG 24
www.hullcityosc.com
SIGN OF THE TIMES By Roy Bly
You know that saying; ‘like a kid in a sweet shop’? Well, for a few years that kid was me. When I was a boy in 1958 we moved house from Worcester Road (West Hull) into a sweet shop at 33 Boothferry Road. My dad, Hull City goalkeeper Billy Bly, had chosen a shop situated at the Boothferry Road/Anlaby Road roundabout. It was the perfect pre-match pit-stop on the way to Boothferry Park. I didn’t realise at the time but it was towards the Norma Nelson, Roy Bly & Sean Carrison last few seasons of my dad’s one club professional career, having signed for Hull City at the age of 17 in 1937. We left the shop in 1962, after he answered an S.O.S. call from Weymouth player manager Frank O’Farrell. Both of his goalkeepers had broken an elbow the week before the FA Cup 1st round. Incredibly at 40 years of age dad contributed greatly to Weymouth reaching the 3rd round of the FA Cup. Dad was not only a skilful goalkeeper but he was a very good painter & decorator in addition to being a master sign writer. He also loved joinery. He made the shop sign and I remember as a child how shiny it looked. He created the style of the letters and hand painted the sign. Dad also made a small wooden cabin on wheels to sell chocolate bars, cigarettes etc in front of the shop for extra sales on match days. Since we left the shop it has had many uses and I often glanced at it as I pass. One evening a few months ago I was driving past, so I looked over as usual. I couldn’t believe what I saw. There it was; the Billy Bly shop sign reflecting back at me! A shiver went through my body.
Daughter Norma poses in front of the shop 1950s
Kingston Cleaning Services had moved premises to Londesbrough Street, taking their sign with them and revealing dad’s, right where he’d left it. My mum’s initials ‘D.N. Bly’, hand painted by my father, were still clearly visible after all these years. All my family went to the shop and took photos of the sign, a few other people stopped to do the same. Sean Carrison, the owner of Kingston Cleaning Services, had the sign removed and kindly offered it back to our family, for which we are eternally grateful to him. When he handed it over I realised why it was so shiny, and so heavy. Its two sections are made of 8mm thick glossy black glass! We have decided the sign should be sited somewhere where people can enjoy it, perhaps with our year as City of Culture in 2017 there will be an opportunity to display it, where can the sign be housed? Email Roy Bly at blyroywr@aol.com
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 25
The (Inner) Circle An introduction to Hull City Executive Club with Chairman Charles Lewis The ‘Hull City Executive Club’ was formed almost 35 years ago by leading business people who wished to support and help the Tigers in any meaningful way possible. It is estimated that, at current values, this benefactor support has been worth over £2m to the football club, in addition to value given in kind. Initially there were 80 members. Throughout the years membership has varied between 50 and 80 with current membership totalling 65. Whilst at Boothferry Park the Executive Club met before and after the match in its own suite and occupied seats in the directors’ box. Ever since the KC Stadium was built at The Circle we’ve met in the Carter Suite with seats immediately to the right of the directors’ box and enjoy refreshments and pre and post match interviews with Dean Windass and visiting former players. The Club is presently administered by a committee of 7, subject to re-election at an annual general meeting. I am the Chair, Ron Lithgow the Honorary Secretary and Trevor Sellers the Honorary Treasurer. Over the years the Executive Club has supported the Tigers in a variety of ways from business and professional support to financial assistance all of which was particularly valuable during some of the all too frequent dark days at Boothferry Park. In recent years the Club has directed the bulk of its resources towards the Centre of Excellence or, latterly, The Academy to meet needs which would not otherwise be met. Recently we have been delighted to give support to Hull City Ladies FC through our sponsorship of Emma Westmorland for the current 2015/16 season. You can follow the progress of Emma and Hull City Ladies on Twitter: @HullCityLFC and online: www.hullcityladies.com
Benefactor: a sponsor, patron, backer ... supporter TIGERMAG 26
www.hullcityosc.com
YOUNG SPORTS JOURNO Academy Hopes - The Next Generation Us City fans have rarely seen young prospects develop through the academy and play for the first-team, let alone watch many home-grown talents make it to the very top. The most recent was probably the legendary Nicky Barmby, yet he didn’t feature in our first-team until later in his career. There have also been suggestions that this barren spell could be prolonged with two bright academy prospects, Matty Dixon, who impressed during pre-season, and Will Aimson, both leaving the under-21 squad for permanent moves elsewhere in search of some first team action. Thankfully Hull born Josh Tymon, 16, gave hope to fans recently. His impressive performance in the FA Cup win at Bury, making him the youngest player to play for the Tigers since the 1996-97 season, got fans excited about his future prospects with the club and perhaps internationally - he was later named in the England under-17 squad. The left-back has been with the club since he was 12 years old and impressed manager Steve Bruce, who described the youngster as “absolutely first-class”. Then there is 22-year-old Calaum Jahraldo-Martin who is already captain of his country, Antigua and Barbuda, despite not having much involvement in a black and amber shirt. Currently on-loan at League 2 side Leyton Orient, the pacey winger has made an impression for the Orient and has already opened his goal scoring account for them. Another youngster making an impression, particularly when in the black and amber shirt, is Brighton born Greg Luer who was signed by the club last year from non-league side Burgess Hill Town and has bagged himself a few cameo roles coupled with a few goals. Luer has recently been loaned out to nearby Scunthorpe United for game-time after the arrival of another attacker, Nick Powell, pushed him further down the pecking order. Perhaps everything isn’t doom and gloom; perhaps we need to just bide our time and let the next generation of stars flourish, without heaping pressure on them. Hope is still alive though for many and comments like Steve Bruce’s make the club’s intentions clear…
“We [Hull] should be producing more footballers not just rugby players” said Bruce earlier this season. That ambition took another step forward with the recent injection of funding into the club’s academy from Flaming Land owner Gordon Gibb potentially making academy manager Tony Pennock’s job that little bit easier. Hopefully we’re not far from seeing the next generation of academy starts coming through the ranks.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 27
MATCH REPORTS – Four of the best from 2016 By Dave Osgerby
The Big Win: City 6 - Charlton Athletic 0
TIGERS PUT SIX OF THE BEST PAST WOEFUL CHARLTON Saturday, January 16th, 2016 At a chilly K.C Stadium, an Abel Hernandez first half hat-trick helped City to a brilliant six nil victory. A mistake by Williams let in Hernandez, who ran forty yards to finish. A brilliant goal, giving Hernandez his twelfth league goal of the season. Better was to follow; Hernandez scoring his second after thirteen minutes and as a contest the game was over. Snodgrass scored his first league goal for the Tigers in the thirty third minute, and what a classic it was; a beautiful left foot curler into the top corner. City were utterly dominant, and Hernandez completed a brilliant hat-trick following great work by Clucas and Robertson. Four nil at half time, and the Charlton fans were singing “We Are Going Down”. All credit to them. Wonderful support that the Charlton team did not deserve. Did a half-time pie ever taste better? The second half kicked off, and City just kept creating chance after chance. Diame got in on the act following a delightful dummy by Snodgrass, hitting number five with a controlled side-foot finish. Abel Hernandez went off to a riotous reception. City’s first hat-trick since the days of Matty Fryatt. Livermore played a captain’s part, and was also cheered to the rafters when he went off. Hayden wrapped up the game with a sixth in the eightieth minute – his first for the Tigers. Not a great goal, perhaps, but just reward for an excellent game. And this was an excellent game, defeats for Derby and Middlesborough putting the icing on a very tasty cake. Man of the Match? I think you can guess.
The Smash ‘n’ Grab: Ipswich Town 0 - City 1 TOP OF THE TABLE TIGERS TOPPLE TRACTOR BOYS Tuesday, February 23rd, 2016
A wonder goal from Mo Diame was enough to secure three points against Ipswich with a one nil victory. The Tigers stayed top of the table while Ipswich probably lost all chance of making the playoffs. City brought in Meyler for Huddlestone, to bring some steel and industry in midfield. A high energy first half saw Snodgrass come close on ten minutes, a left foot free kick palmed away by the Ipswich keeper. The busy Freddie Sears was dangerous for Ipswich, but City were generally in control. However, Ipswich hit the post as the Tractor Boys came more into the game. Sears should have done better with a shot on half time, as the ball ended up in Row Z. All square at half time, as the Tigers faithful waited for the usual second half revival. They didn’t have long to wait. A throw from McGregor, a chase up field by Robertson, a telling pass and an exquisite finish by Diame put City one up. Whatever Steve Bruce said to Diame at half time worked wonders, as he bossed the second half. The Tigers could have scored twice in the next five minutes; a Meyler goal bound shot was blocked, and Livermore hit the post on fifty two minutes. The defence was outstanding; another clean sheet tribute to perhaps the best pair of central defenders in the Championship in Dawson and Davies. Akpom came on for Hernandez, but was well marshalled by the Ipswich back line. No City game is ever easy, and Ipswich had two good chances to equalise right at the death, a Sears shot pushed wide by McGregor, then a Smith header over the top. Man of the Match – Diame.
TIGERMAG 28
www.hullcityosc.com
The Six Pointer: Middlesbrough 1 – City 0 SUB NUGENT SINKS TIGERS Friday, March 18th, 2016
City went down one nil to a stoppage time goal from substitute David Nugent. That was it in a nutshell. But it doesn’t tell the whole story. The Tigers can be proud in defeat. A great team performance, undone by one moment of magic. Livermore came back into the side, and Clucas was restored to the flank. The game started at breakneck pace, with City on the front foot from the start. The first chance fell to Diame, but his shot was comfortably saved. Snodgrass shot just wide on eleven minutes, grazing the outside of the post, as City poured forward. Aluko worked tirelessly, but Boro were a constant threat on the break. This was breathless stuff, and the first half flew by. Snodgrass headed wide on the point of half time, and the teams went in level, but City looked in little danger. After the frantic first half, the second was more subdued, but still City pressed. A great effort from Aluko was tipped over the bar, and a clear foul on Dawson in the box went unseen by the referee. City were well on top, with Boro looking to counter. Snodgrass worked hard, but to no avail, the defence were resolute, both Davies and Dawson outstanding. City’s best chance of the night fell to sub Elmohamady, who somehow blasted over the bar from six yards. Still City pressed forward. Diame created space for himself, but fired a weak effort straight at the keeper. With five minutes to go, Robertson made a storming run into the box, but failed to convert, and that, we thought, was that. In the ninety first minute, Adomah launched a speculative cross into the box, and substitute David Nugent found room for a delightful header, which could be worth its weight in goal to the struggling Boro. How cruel football can be. This was a game the Tigers did not deserve to lose, but it’s starting to get tough now. Nugent walked off with the man of the match award. He was only on for twenty minutes! For me, it was Dawson (again). He did not deserve to be on the losing side. So it goes.
The Performance of a Lifetime: Arsenal 0 – City 0 TIGERS SPIKE GUNNERS’ GUN Saturday, February 20th, 2016
The best team doesn’t always win. This pulsating game was proof of that. A strong Arsenal team were unable to break down a stubborn Tigers side, who battled manfully to secure a deserved nil nil draw at the Emirates. Another Groundhog day in the Cup, but, make no mistake, this was a great performance by the Tigers. A virtual second string side, including sixteen year old Josh Tymon, defended with courage and no small degree of skill, rode their luck, and almost won it at the end. In goal for the Tigers, Eldin Jakupovic put in a great performance, easily winning the competition for Man of the Match. He was little short of brilliant, as were the entire defence. This was one of those games where Arsenal attacked in wave after wave, but City were equal to the task. Another word for Josh Tymon, who put in another astonishingly composed game, never once looking out of place. Arsenal mustered twenty four chances, but still couldn’t put the ball in the net. Nil nil at half time, and we dared to dream. The second half was simply more of the same. An increasingly desperate Arsenal side brought on Giroud and Sanchez, but all to no avail. City stood firm, and should have won it in the eighty sixth minute, when Aluko had a glorious chance, but the Arsenal keeper saved Arsene’s bacon. A Tigers win would have been hard on Arsenal, but they will not look forward to the replay. This report is not long enough to record all the near misses, and the two penalty shouts for the Gunners, but, in the final analysis, sometimes you eat the bear, sometimes the bear eats you(at least that’s what hunters say) To sum up; every single City player was a hero, Jakupovic was sensational, and Arsene will not relish the game at the K.C. If you come to that game, stand up and cheer when the team comes out. They really, really deserved it. And as for Stevie Bruce, he got it right again. His tactics were spot on and the game plan was put into practice by his team. One of the best nil nils this supporter has ever seen. You can read Dave’s latest match reports at www.hullcityosc.com published within hours of the final whistle.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 29
THE AMBER TRAIL READING - Tues 19th April (KO 20:00)
L SUP A I C PO I F F
RT
ERS CLUB
CITY L L O HU
There are no pubs local to the ground so if you are travelling by car you might want to stop off at one of the local villages. If you are travelling by train however you could try the Nags Head (5 Russell Street, RG1 7XD) just off the busy Oxford Road, about a mile from the station. It was the local CAMRA Branch Pub of the Year in 2011, with an array of 12 handpumps offering the full range of real beers, from strong ales to mild, stouts and bitter; well worth a visit.
Zerodegrees (9 Bridge Street, RG1 2LR) is a real ale brewhouse with continental style ales brewed in the stainless steel brewing plant which is the main feature of this new style bar. Beer is served chilled direct from the conditioning tanks, unfiltered and unpasteurised - a pub with a difference.
BOLTON WANDERERS - Sat 30th April (KO 15:00) The main pub for away fans is the Beehive (991 Chorley New Road, BL6 4BA) which is about a 10-15 minute walk away from the away turnstiles. It is a good sized pub that also serves food and there is a separate bar area with full Sky and BT Sports coverage. You can park your car there. Another nice pub, on the edge of the moors and two miles from the Macron Stadium, is Bob’s Smithy (1448 Chorley Old Road, BL1 7PX) a GBG 2016 entry. The inn is named after the local smithy who apparently spent more time in the pub than in his forge across the road!
TIGERMAG 30
www.hullcityosc.com
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 31
INTRODUCING TIGEROPOLIS This edition of TigerMag sees the start of a new comic-strip cartoon – Tigeropolis, the story of a rather extraordinary family of tigers living somewhere in the heart of the Indian jungle. Author R.D. Dikstra explains “The Tigeropolis stories are loosely based on my experience of wildlife conservation in India. For the last 7 years I’ve been involved in campaigns to help improve the ways in which tourism can benefit conservation. I thought that rather than always hearing about threats to wildlife, it might be nice to have a fun story - one where the tigers actually called the shots. The stories focus around a group of tigers and the two central characters; tiger cubs Bittu and his sister Matti”. Whilst the book series follows the story of the tigers’ battle to save their home from the park authorities, who want to bulldoze their home and build a motorway, the cartoon strip follows Bittu’s footballing adventures. Whilst watching Hull City away at Brentford with one of my friends, a die-hard City supporter. I was telling him we had just published the first of the Tigeropolis books. The central character, a tiger cub called Bittu, likes football and perhaps unsurprisingly is a fan of Hull City. It occurred to me it might be fun to follow what might happen if Bittu’s footballing skills were recognised a bit more widely. Next thing I knew HCOSC got in touch wanting to know if I’d be interested in doing a regular comic strip for TigerMag.
Could this be Bittu’s big break!?
To read the full Tigeropolis interview with author R.D. Dikstra head to our website.
TIGERMAG 32
www.hullcityosc.com
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 33
TIGERMAG 34
www.hullcityosc.com
PUZZLE PAGE
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 35
HULL CITY OFFICAL SUPPORTERS CLUB Bringing you closer to your club
The official supporters club offers members a growing list of exclusive benefits and some truly fantastic opportunities for you to get closer to the club. Fancy meeting the players at a question & answer night or having your photo taken with Roary? Why not join us for one of our seasonal ‘Tiger Cub’ children’s events or enter our regular members only competitions? Members from across the world regularly find their way to the family friendly Airco Arena bar where you can hear pre-match interviews with ex-players and pick up HCOSC merchandise or just enjoy a drink and a chat with friends. All members benefit from FREE:
Entry to the Player of the Season Awards Player Q&A’s at the KC Stadium KC Stadium Tour Pre-match ex-player interviews in the Airco Arena Personalised membership card Competitions to win Hull City prizes
Adult member benefits
FREE subscription to the TigerMag (worth £2.00 per issue) VIP invites to OSC organised dinners and events Newsletters emailed to you throughout the season
Tiger Cub benefits
FREE Academy training days FREE Tiger Cub newsletters Annual pin badge Signed birthday card Christmas party
JOIN TODAY!
....and much, much more!
HCOSC Membership No:
First name:
Last name:
D.o.B: ______/_____/______
Phone:
Mb.
Applies to renewals only
Email: Address: Postcode: Payment accepted in cash on match days at the Airco Arena or at any HCOSC event. Cheques payable to: ‘Hull City Official Supporters Club’ Pay online at www.hullcityosc.com For our postal address please see page 3
TIGERMAG 36
Tick your choice of membership 1 Year Adult £8
1 Year Tiger Cubs (u14) £6
2 Year Adult £14
2 Year Tiger Cubs (u14) £10
3 Year Adult £20
3 Year Tiger Cubs (u14) £14
www.hullcityosc.com
THE YELLOW BROTHERS Months of planning finally came together in February when Hull City Official Supporters Cub welcomed eighteen KSC Lokeren fans to Hull for the weekend. We arranged to meet them off the ferry and had a fun filled day planned. Once safely all on board the mini buses the first stop was the KC Stadium. With the help of the club it was arranged for the fans to be given a pitch-side view of the Stadium. All the KSC Lokeren fans, known as the Yellow Brothers, where very appreciative and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Many photos were taken so that they can show them to their families back home. They also managed time for a quick shopping stop in Tiger Leisure before continuing on with their day. Due to The F.A. Cup rescheduling our fixtures there wasn’t a home game to enjoy so next it was off to the Wheatsheaf pub in Kirk Ella where everyone settled in ready to watch the Tigers take on Arsenal on TV. The Yellow Brothers lead the way when it came to the singing and chanting. The pub was full to the rafters but the travelling fans where definitely the loudest! Reporters and photographers from the Hull Daily Mail came along to cover the visit. Hull City supporters and the KSC Lokeren fans all joined together as one, creating an electric atmosphere for what group organiser Peter van Remortel described as “probably the best nil nil draw I’ve ever seen”, as Arsenal were held at home by City; thanks largely to the once-in-a-life-time performance of Tigers keeper Eldin Jakupovic. After the game there was a quick pit-stop at their hotel before heading off to Welton Memorial Club. Here our guests were greeted by more Hull City fans. They even took to the stage to treat everyone to some of their chants and songs. Again both sets of fans shared stories and a few beers while dancing the night away. Many of the KSC Lokeren fans were still in the party spirit and decided to head out round Hull to experience the night life and a few more beers, before finally calling time on what was a magnificent day. Hangovers aside, Sunday was time for a game of Foot-Golf which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, despite the English weather, before heading back to the ferry for what has been described as a ‘rough’ crossing home. We’re unsure if that was a reference to the sea state or a result of The Yellow Brother’s over indulgences! The fans kindly presented the OSC with a signed KSC Lockeren shirt as well as a few other Belgium goodies. We can honestly say we had a fantastic weekend and would like to say Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen or who joined us along the way. Peter and The Yellow Brothers have also asked us to pass on their thanks and have said it was a weekend they will never forget. They could not believe how warm and welcoming the Hull City fans were. HCOSC will look to return the favor in the near future with a trip to Belgium – watch this space.
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 37
EVENTS DIARY & UPDATES WEBSITE FAN OF THE WEEK RETURNS: Our ‘Fan of the Week’ website feature has been reinstated. For local fans who can be presented with an OSC goody bag at the Airco pre-match, and for fans who live overseas or out of the locality for away games. Nominations are required, together with photos and a little biography of their Hull City story. To nominate a fan email: events@ hullcityosc.co.uk
STADIUM TOURS: We are working with the club to schedule stadium tours at the KC under a new format but advise that there are no tours available at the moment. We will keep OSC members informed but in the meantime if you would like to join us on a stadium tour in the future please email: events@hullcityosc.co.uk and we’ll add you to the mailing list for any updates. REGULAR QUIZ NIGHTS: The OSC runs regular pub quizzes in aid of our chosen charity CRY – Cardiac Risk in the Young. Join us at the Green Dragon, Welton from 8:30pm on the first Monday of every month. £1 per person, maximum 6 per team. MEET THE PLAYERS NIGHTS: The new format at the KC Stadium has proven hugely popular
with a panel of four players attending each event. The next one will be scheduled shortly (it’s being planned as we go to print) and we hold occasional ex-player events locally too. Keep checking our website, Facebook and Twitter for details
A DAY IN MY SHOES & FAMILY FUN DAY: On Saturday 7th May, from 11am (before the Hull
City v Rotherham home game) we will be collecting your unwanted shoes at the Airco Arena for a world record attempt. Any style, size or condition, they all count. The record attempt will be held at the KC Stadium, West Park on June 25th 2016 where there will be a family fun day including local bands playing outside the stadium. Afterwards the donated shoes will be given to homeless charities throughout Hull and the surrounding area. Any shoes which are unable to be reused will be ‘weighed in’ to be recycled and the money given to Hull Homeless Outreach to support the amazing work they do.
COMPETITIONS: Did you know that we have regular competitions? Check our email newsletter
(contact marketing@hullcityosc.co.uk if you’re not receiving them), social media and website for details - our last winner is based in Malta, so distance is no barrier!
RESULTS AND FIXTURES
QUIZ ANSWERS
TIGERMAG 38
www.hullcityosc.com
MEET THE PLAYERS NIGHT
www.hullcityosc.com
TIGERMAG 39
TIGERMAG produced by AC PRINT LTD. 0800 093 2960 www.acprintltd.co.uk