David ‘Rocky’ Rocastle

A diversion from the normal today to remember Rocky. Just scans of press photo’s today, no need for words or the backslips.

068 – Alex James RIP

In the summer of 1953 the world looked on as Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth, but it couldn’t help noticing the death of one of football’s all time greats.

The first newspaper clipping I’ve scanned is from the Daily Sketch (02-06-53) and the other newspaper scans are from the News Chronicle (same date).

067 – Doncaster Rovers and Autographs

Keeping the slightly random nature of this series today’s scans are a couple of pictures from the visit of Doncaster Rovers to Highbury in the FA Cup, and also a scan of postcards that were sent out by the club to autograph hunters.

As always the backslip is copied below the photo.

“Arsenal played Doncaster Rovers in the third round of the FA Cup at Arsenal Stadium to-day.
Photo shows RT Little Jimmy Logie, Arsenal inside-right challenges the Doncaster keeper Hardwick for the ball, on left, Lishman, at Arsenal stadium to-day.”

“Arsenal played Doncaster Rovers in the third round of the FA Cup at Arsenal Stadium to-day.
Photo shows Lishman, Arsenal inside-left, scoring Arsenal’s first goal, with the goalkeeper, Hardwick, Doncaster Rovers, well beaten.”

066 – Tom Whittaker Gives Arsenal Its Kick

Today’s scans are an article on Tom Whittaker’s Arsenal from John Bull Magazine dated 08/11/1952.

065 – 1952 Brings Glory in Defeat

In 1952 the FA Cup Final was contested by the two previous winners, Arsenal and Newcastle United and although Newcastle took the cup home after a 1-0 win the glory most definitely belonged to Arsenal. Arsenal went into the game with various injury problems including Ray Daniel playing with a cast on his recently broken wrist. Things got worse when full back Walley Barnes had to leave the pitch injured (in the days before substitutes) but the 10 men of Arsenal held out until near the end when, with two players down injured, Newcastle scored their winner.

Many reports have been written of the game but I thought for something different I’d scan the referee’s view of the game (Arthur Ellis from his book ‘Refereeing Around the World). Also a poignant press photo of Barnes being led away, and then a scan of a slip sent by our supporters club with the tickets.

“Newcastle United v Arsenal, Cup Final, Wembley – 3rd May 1952.
A tragic moment for Arsenal when right-back Walley Barnes is helped off the pitch by trainer Milne, to stay off for the rest of the match”