A series of captivating and informative lectures is scheduled to take place at the esteemed Dundee University, featuring columnist and sports nostalgia author Steve Finan. The lectures, organized by Lifelong Learning Dundee, will delve into the fascinating stories and anecdotes behind the evolution of Scottish football grounds, covering a wide range of topics including incredible attendance records and the architectural beauty of the stadiums.
One particularly intriguing story that Finan will share is the 1949 league match between Dundee and Rangers at Dens Park, where the crowd swelled in an unprecedented manner. Officially reported as 39,975, the attendance figure was far surpassed due to the overwhelming interest in the game, attributed to the excitement of the championship battle. Spectators came from far and wide, with additional trains from Glasgow arranged to accommodate the large number of fans.
The narrative took a surprising turn as the army’s infantry training contributed to the exceptional turnout. With turnstiles closing long before kick-off, thousands of fans, including war veterans and those on National Service, entered the ground through unconventional means, disregarding obstacles and breaching the gates. This resulted in a record crowd witnessing a thrilling 3-1 victory for Dundee.
Moreover, Finan will explore the unique details of Tannadice, where the famous Shed end no longer aligns with the pitch due to the removal of 12 yards of land to accommodate a new stand. The steepness of the terrace, although somewhat perilous, provided shorter fans with a better view of the game. Finan will also discuss the evolution of football grounds in response to tragic incidents such as the Bradford fire and Hillsborough disaster, leading to the transition to all-seated stadiums.
A highlight of the lecture series will be an examination of the early days of football grounds and the influence of cricket grounds like Lord’s and The Oval in London. The model of raised banks and barriers to keep spectators off the playing area served as the foundation for the design of football grounds. The work of architect Archibald Leitch, celebrated for designing iconic football grounds such as Goodison Park and Dens Park, will also be explored. His designs played a crucial role in shaping the character of these stadiums, each with its unique story and individual challenges due to their locations.
This series of lectures promises to be an enlightening experience for football enthusiasts and history aficionados alike. The opportunity to gain insights into the colorful history and development of Scottish football grounds from an expert like Steve Finan is not to be missed. Tickets for the event, available on Eventbrite, offer great value for an evening of engaging content and captivating stories. For an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Scottish football, attending this remarkable series of lectures is highly recommended.