Please note: This book trailer does not have a publication date at present. As with any pre-announced books, plans can change, with projects sometimes being delayed or even cancelled entirely. In the pantheon of football rivalries, few match the raw intensity and historical weight of Glasgow's Old Firm derby. Martin Hannan's "Hail! Hail!" dives deep into this 135-year-old contest, focusing on the most memorable clashes between Celtic and Rangers from the green-and-white perspective.
The book centres on twenty of the most significant Old Firm matches in Celtic's history, with the author masterfully weaving together match reports, player testimonials, and the broader cultural context that makes each encounter more than just a game. Hannan's access to exclusive reflections from Celtic managers and players, both past and present, adds a layer of intimacy and insider perspective that football literature often lacks.
Among the standout chapters is the detailed account of the legendary 7-1 victory in the 1957 League Cup final, still Celtic's most decisive win over their rivals. The author's treatment of the 1979 league-winning 4-2 match and the more recent 6-2 triumph in 2000 captures not just the tactical nuances of these games but the electric atmosphere and emotional resonance that continue to echo through Celtic Park.
What sets this book apart is its understanding that the Old Firm derby transcends sport. Since that first official meeting in 1888 (a 5-2 Celtic victory), this fixture has become deeply embedded in Scottish culture, reflecting and sometimes amplifying the social, religious, and political divisions of Glasgow. Hannan handles these sensitive aspects with both honesty and restraint, never sensationalising the darker elements that have occasionally marred the rivalry.
The book's greatest strength lies in its ability to capture the visceral excitement of match day while providing thoughtful analysis of how these games fit into Celtic's broader history. For the uninitiated, it serves as an excellent primer on why this derby maintains its grip on football's imagination. For seasoned Celtic supporters, it's a chance to relive some of their finest hours.
While thoroughly researched and well-written, some readers might find the Celtic-centric perspective limiting. Those seeking a balanced history of the Old Firm might need to look elsewhere. However, this was clearly never Hannan's intention—this is unabashedly a celebration of Celtic's greatest Old Firm moments, and it succeeds admirably on those terms.
"Hail! Hail!" is more than just a collection of match reports; it's a testament to how certain games can define a club's identity and unite generations of supporters. For Celtic fans, it's essential reading. For neutral football enthusiasts, it offers valuable insight into one of the sport's most enduring rivalries. Hannan has produced a work that understands both the technical aspects of the beautiful game and its profound cultural significance.
Please note: This book does not have a publication date at present. As with any pre-announced books, plans can change, with projects sometimes being delayed or even cancelled entirely. We'll update this review when more information becomes available about the publication timeline.
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Published: UnknownPrice: £ UnknownPaperback: UnknownISBN-13: 978-1845967147Dimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)
