A Fistful of Doldrums: View From the North East Hotbed 1977-79

David Snowdon's latest work is a masterful exploration of a pivotal period in North East football history, focusing on Sunderland AFC during a time of transformation and turmoil. The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together the sporting, cultural, and social fabric of the late 1970s, creating a compelling narrative that extends far beyond the confines of Roker Park.
The author's academic background shines through in his meticulous research, yet the writing remains accessible and engaging. Snowdon's previous acclaim, including the British Society of Sports History Lord Aberdare Literary Prize, is evident in his skilled handling of both broad historical contexts and intimate personal stories.
The book's examination of Bob Stokoe's decline is particularly poignant. Stokoe's departure in 1976 and the subsequent appointment of Jimmy Adamson marked a crucial turning point for the club. Snowdon expertly analyses how this transition affected not just the team's fortunes but the wider footballing community in the North East.
One of the book's most fascinating elements is its exploration of the Brian Clough saga. Clough, who had been a prolific striker for Sunderland in the early 1960s, scoring 63 goals in 74 matches, represents one of football's great "what-if" scenarios. The author's investigation into why this appointment never materialised adds a layer of historical intrigue to the narrative.
The contribution from Gary Rowell adds authentic first-hand perspective to the era. Rowell, who joined Sunderland as an apprentice in 1972, witnessed this turbulent period from the inside, and his insights provide valuable context to the changing dynamics of both the club and the game itself. His evolution from youth prospect to first-team regular mirrors the broader transitions occurring in football during this period.
Snowdon's portrayal of the late 1970s football culture is particularly vivid. The author captures an era when football was still deeply rooted in local communities, before the commercialisation that would transform the sport in subsequent decades. His attention to detail in describing the atmosphere at Roker Park, the characters in the boardroom, and the passionate fan culture creates an immersive reading experience.
The book excels in its broader contextual analysis, showing how Sunderland's story reflected wider social and economic changes in the North East during the late 1970s. The author's exploration of the club's search for both a "big name" manager and a proven striker serves as a metaphor for the region's own quest for identity and success during a period of significant change.
Particularly impressive is Snowdon's ability to balance serious historical analysis with entertaining anecdotes about the club's colourful characters and memorable moments. "Wonderfully wacky searches" for new leadership and talent are described with both humour and insight, highlighting the sometimes chaotic nature of football management in this era.
While the book will naturally appeal most to Sunderland supporters, its scope extends far beyond club loyalty. It serves as an important historical document of a crucial period in English football, when the game stood on the cusp of its modern transformation. Snowdon's careful attention to the wider social and cultural context of the late 1970s makes this work relevant to anyone interested in British social history.
For readers seeking to understand how football in the North East evolved from its traditional working-class roots to its current form, "A Fistful of Doldrums" provides essential reading. It's a valuable addition to the canon of football literature, offering both scholarly rigour and narrative appeal. Snowdon has created a work that will educate, entertain, and enlighten readers about a fascinating period in football history.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 [Delivered to You 2nd Week May 2025]
Published: April 28, 2025
Paperback: 352 pages
ISBN-10: 1801509980
ISBN-13: 978-1801509985
Dimensions: 216 x 138 (mm)