Fields of Wonder: The Incredible Story of Northern Ireland's Journey to the 1982 World Cup

The Northern Ireland football team was in the doldrums in the 1970s, but two years later they played for a place in the 1982 World Cup semi-finals. Evan Marshall's book 'Fields of Wonder' charts their incredible journey, from the appointment of Billy Bingham as manager to the winning of the British Home Championship in 1980. It captures the struggles, spirit, and magic of Northern Ireland's 1982 World Cup campaign, based on interviews with manager Billy Bingham and many of the players.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2022
Publisher: Colourpoint Creative Ltd

The Northern Ireland football team faced a challenging period in the late 1970s, marked by civil unrest and a string of disappointing performances. They had finished bottom of the British Championship for four consecutive years, playing all their games away from home. However, two years later, they found themselves in an unexpected position as they prepared to take on France in a crucial match for a place in the 1982 World Cup semi-finals.

In his book "Fields of Wonder," Evan Marshall takes readers on an exhilarating journey through Northern Ireland's incredible World Cup journey. Marshall delves into the appointment of Billy Bingham as manager and the team's victory in the British Home Championship in 1980, setting the stage for the upcoming challenges. He vividly captures the ups and downs of the qualifying stages, including the thrilling match against Spain in Valencia.

The book is based on extensive interviews with manager Billy Bingham, as well as with many of the players who played key roles in the 1982 campaign, including Pat Jennings, Martin ONeill, Gerry Armstrong, and Norman Whiteside. Marshall's storytelling is enriched by the backdrop of the Troubles, providing a unique perspective on the struggles, spirit, and magic of Northern Ireland's World Cup campaign.

Through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Marshall brings the 1982 World Cup journey to life, capturing the emotions, tensions, and triumphs that marked Northern Ireland's participation in the tournament. "Fields of Wonder" is a must-read for football fans, sports enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history and culture of Northern Ireland. It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Northern Ireland football team and their fans, and their remarkable journey to the pinnacle of international football.

Dimension: 198 x 130 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780732404