Series 4, Episode 1 - The Deadly Submarine (with Steve Wilson)
Manage episode 320862404 series 2800515
It’s back! Yes, that’s right, the start of a new series of FANS is here, and what a start it is as Sachin is joined by the brilliant BBC commentator Steve Wilson for a chat about Tranmere Rovers.
Steve is in typically articulate and engaging form as he discusses the club he was born to support having grown up in the shadow of Prenton Park – Tranmere’s ground and, as Steve makes clear, one that is NOT in Liverpool.
His first trip there was in January 1975 and there are memories of the sights, sounds and smells of the occasion – a Third Division game against Grimsby that, as was typical of following Tranmere at the time, took place on a Friday night. Steve was hooked and about to embark on a journey of extreme highs and lows.
There have been financial difficulties and multiple relegations to contend with as a ‘Trannie’ fan during the past 40 years or so but also the glorious, never-to-be-forgotten reigns of Johnny King and John Aldridge. Steve speaks with great warmth about the success both men brought to Tranmere as well as with great humour about his personal interactions with each of them. His story about interviewing Aldridge for Football Focus is especially wonderful.
Speaking of ‘the Aldridge Years’, Steve also reflects on the three iconic matches Tranmere played under their former player-manager in the early noughties, and in particular the 4-3 victory over Southampton in February 2001. Steve was at Prenton Park that night commentating for BBC Five Live and speaks with fascinating insight and honesty about the experience.
Finally, there is a chat about modern-day Tranmere and how the club appears to be in good hands thanks to the presence of two former players in Mark Palios and Micky Mellon. And speaking of former players, Steve also talks through his all-time Tranmere XI, which includes a place for one of his BBC colleagues. And no, it’s not Dan Walker.
So download, listen and love. And after you have, please Rate and Review. It would mean a lot.
Cheers!
31 episódios