The Glory Years tells the compelling story of Oxford United’s journey from bankruptcy to the triumph of the Milk Cup Final during the vibrant 1980s. The narrative unfolds with tales of underdog triumphs and consecutive championships, navigating through corporate mergers, fan violence, and the looming challenge of a new Super League. This is a narrative that has remained largely uncharted until this moment.
In 1982, Oxford United found itself on the brink of bankruptcy and facing relegation from the Third Division, prompting club secretary Jim Hunt to make a desperate phone call to the infamous publishing magnate, Robert Maxwell, who lived nearby. Maxwell revitalised the club, embarking on an exhilarating quest for promotion to the First Division under the guidance of manager Jim Smith. In a thrilling series of Milk Cup matches at their enchanting venue, The Manor, Oxford triumphed over formidable opponents Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester United, and Arsenal, securing consecutive championships.
Under the guidance of Maurice Evans, the team managed to endure three seasons in the top division, clinching the prestigious Milk Cup at Wembley in 1986, a testament to their resilience and skill. This narrative explores Oxford's remarkable trajectory, beginning with Ian Greaves' arrival in 1980 and culminating in relegation in 1988.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Scott Walkinshaw is a lifelong Oxford United fan whose website Oxblogger is one of the longest-running football blogs in the country. His articles, stories and long reads offer a unique take on the club’s history and fortunes. He has written for Sky Sports, World Football and FourFourTwo, the club programme, the Oxford Mail and has featured on the BBC and in The Guardian.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 [Delivered to You 1st Week Febuary 2025]
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd
Published: January 27, 2025
Price: £19.99
Hardback: 384 pages
ISBN-10 : 1801509352
ISBN-13 : 9781801509350
Dimensions: 222 x 144 (mm)
Secure your first edition today; ensure you seize this opportunity! A title destined for collectors of the future. Unless you're willing to bide your time for a reprint.
