memory


It is said that if one believes in them, dreams can come true… but so often they don’t. Yesterday, however, a dream came true. I travelled to London and Wembley stadium to see Wigan play in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. When I was born in Wigan a few decades ago the town was a rugby town. The football team was tiny and playing in the amateur leagues. They have been in existence for a shorter period of time than most other professional teams, being formed in 1932, and even now, as a premiership team, they engage each season afresh in a relegation battle. A battle that this season it looks like they may possibly be on the verge of losing after a crushing defeat on Tuesday against Swansea. This brings us back to that word that Wigan seem have adopted as their own in these dark times – BELIEVE. We have to believe we can remain in the premier league. Little Wigan went out onto the Wembley pitch yesterday against the wealthiest club in England, last season’s champions, and won the game 1-0. It was an incredible feat. I’ve watched the game again today and even watching it a second time I was still struggling to believe that Wigan had even made it to the final let alone won it. It was a day that I shall never forget. I am proud of the team, the manager, the owner and all of the people of the town, especially those who travelled to the game yesterday. Thank you for one of my greatest moments and for an ever-lasting memory.

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