Come On You Blues

In the late 1970s, Shrewsbury was a backwater in football, but their promotion to Football League Division Two in 1979 changed that. Come On You Blues is a vivid account of Town's inaugural campaign in Division Two in 1979/80, as seen through the eyes of a 15-year-old fan and proud owner of a junior season ticket.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2021
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

Shrewsbury, renowned for being the birthplace of Charles Darwin and its picturesque setting on the River Severn, was still considered a footballing backwater in the late 1970s. However, the town's promotion to Football League Division Two in 1979 marked a significant turning point in their history. The spirit of 79, fueled by their remarkable FA Cup run and an unexpected Third Division title triumph, propelled them into the spotlight. Teams like Chelsea, Newcastle, and West Ham were now making their way to Gay Meadow, and Shrewsbury became the favorite among pundits to face relegation.

Come On You Blues is a captivating firsthand account of Town's inaugural campaign in Division Two during the 1979/80 season. The book takes readers on a journey through the eyes of a 15-year-old fan and proud owner of a GBP12 junior season ticket, providing a vivid portrayal of the experiences and emotions associated with supporting a small team from Shropshire as they battled for survival in the second tier. The book vividly recalls the thrills and anguish of following a team that defied the odds by defeating footballing giants, upstaging local rivals, and performing admirably against exciting, up-and-coming sides.

The promotion to Division Two brought with it a sense of excitement and anticipation for the town and its football fans. Shrewsbury's players, led by manager Sam Longson, were determined to make a mark and prove themselves against the more established teams in the league. The season kicked off with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Mansfield Town, and the team continued to display their resilience and determination throughout the campaign.

Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Shrewsbury managed to maintain their position in the league. They achieved memorable victories over teams like Leeds United, Coventry City, and Portsmouth, showcasing their talent and determination. The team's success was not just limited to the pitch; they also gained a reputation for their vibrant and passionate support, with fans traveling from all over the country to witness their matches.

The book also delves into the personal stories of the players and the impact that the promotion had on their lives. It explores the challenges they faced, both on and off the field, and the sacrifices they made to achieve their goals. The players became local heroes, and their achievements inspired a new generation of young footballers in the town.

Come On You Blues serves as a testament to the power of passion, determination, and community spirit. It reminds us that even the smallest teams can achieve great things when they are united by a common goal and driven by a shared love for the sport. The book captures the essence of what it means to be a football fan, and it will resonate with fans of all ages and backgrounds.

In conclusion, Shrewsbury's promotion to Football League Division Two in 1979 marked a significant milestone in their history. The spirit of 79, fueled by their remarkable FA Cup run and unexpected title triumph, propelled them into the spotlight and inspired a new generation of football fans. Come On You Blues is a captivating firsthand account of Town's inaugural campaign in Division Two, providing a vivid portrayal of the experiences and emotions associated with supporting a small team from Shropshire. The book serves as a testament to the power of passion, determination, and community spirit, and it will resonate with fans of all ages and backgrounds.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785318542