When I was a wee lad success for Tottenham was finishing fourth from bottom. Seriously; 50,000 to see a 4-2 victory against Leeds to avoid relegation in 1975 was one of the best atmospheres ever at the Lane. That was a Wednesday night if I recall correctly and back then Saturday games always kicked off at 3pm.
This has as all changed in the era of the Premier League with games now spread across the weekend and played at all times of the day. I suspect that many of our homeland fans are oblivious to the reason for this but those of us who have spread our wings and fled the cosy nest of N17 will be acutely aware – it’s called global reach. And no club reaches globally better than the mighty Spurs.
The intrepid 5 disciples from Sydney did their best to raise awareness of the distant cousins that go by the name of Ozspurs when they were presented to the crowd at the end of last season, courtesy of Under Armour. (And a great trip it was too I understand – not that I’m jealous - Bastards!). Even so, I reckon those observing over their half time Bovril will still not have a clue what it is like to support your team at a distance of 10,562 miles.
They would be amazed to hear that for the recent Chelsea game a bar in not the most salubrious part of Sydney was so full of Spurs fans that late arrivals like myself could barely get through the door. And that the full repertoire of songs was to be heard, including joyously proclaiming the religious allegiance for which the club is known and casting aspersions on the character of our great rival’s manager, suggesting why he might carry a bag of sweets in his pocket.
Recreating the atmosphere of the Lane is great fun and enjoyed by all, including bemused looking passers-by, and often Spurs supporters who are simply passing through Sydney and have discovered the whereabouts of the Triple Ace on the internet. Normally the latter are the most excited of all, “just what I was hoping for” being a common reaction.
There is something quite tribal about football supporters and to experience the unquestioning friendship from members of the great global tribe that follows Tottenham Hotspur is to feel at home wherever you might be. Long may that be the case and long may the most far flung yet passionate overseas Spurs supporters club thrive at its spiritual home in Sydney and across this lucky country that we call home.
#COYS #THFC #Yiddarmy!
