You overestimate my memory! The only problem I remember were the miserable old gits at the Lane End complaining that when Utd kicked the wrong way (towards the Lane End 2nd half), we used to arrive at half-time with our rattles and disturb their peace and quiet.
The first time I was aware of crowd trouble starting were matches at Everton and Leeds in 1961. We were chased after the Cup win at Everton as we headed back to the station; and a group of Leeds teenagers headed towards us behind the goal a bit aggressively before the match started. The adult Leeds supporters told them to bugger off, and they did.
Segregation has been a necessary evil. It is much more enjoyable to share space with opposition supporters (as we used to be called).
Agree whole heartedly with your last sentence.
1950's, we, mi grandad and his youngest son, National Service 1947-48 to show his age, did away games, Boxing Days, Easters with a sprinkling of other attractive away fixtures that took their fancy.
I still, vividly, remember at Boothferry Park the feller who, in a sparsely filled terracing around 2pm, inadvertently hit me in the face whilst gesticulating, putting his point, Mi uncle had him by the lapels and was about to deliver the Crux de Gar when mi grandad stepped in. After apologies all was well, although the conversation some what dried up.
Hawthorns, just mi uncle and me. Blades were beaten, 2-1 but Hagan scored, so made my day. We were in amongst the Baggies supporters and a congenial set they were. Despite the loss an enjoyable footballing afternoon.
Main Rd., not the supporters this time just a crap day. En route, car, opposite direction, sideswiped the coach so game started when we arrived and it started to rain. Rushed to nearest turnstiles and ended opposite side to player entrance side, no cover. Shortly, heavens opened and we started to get soaked so we came out and payed again to go behind a goal and under cover but totally soaked. Blades lost 2-1 to round it off.
Great to be a Blade.
