Southend United in Focus
A Century of Passion Captured in Pictures Are you or a loved one featured in the 100's of historic club photos?
The story of Southend United Football Club is one of grit, ambition, and enduring local pride. From their modest origins in the Southern League Second Division, the Shrimpers steadily worked their way up, eventually earning a coveted place in the Football League in 1920. The club's fortunes have fluctuated over the decades, culminating in an exhilarating peak in the mid-1990s when Southend experienced a brief taste of Division One football. The book, Images of Sport: Southend United Football Club, paints this journey in vivid detail, drawing on a remarkable archive of over 250 photographs, player portraits, cartoons, and memorabilia.
Leafing through these pages, readers are transported straight to the heart of the action: from the mud-splattered drama of FA Cup showdowns against giants like Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool to the euphoria and nerves that surrounded the very first match at Roots Hall. The images capture not just the football, but the atmosphere—the packed terraces, the sea of blue and white scarves, and the sense of occasion that has defined Southend’s biggest days. These visual records are a treasure trove for supporters, many of whom may spot a familiar face, be it a family member, friend, or even themselves among the crowd.
Of course, Southend United’s history isn’t just about matches; it’s about the characters who have shaped the club. The book gives special attention to legendary figures such as Bob Jack, whose managerial nous laid early foundations; Jimmy McAlinden’s midfield artistry; Eddie Firmani’s goalscoring exploits; Peter Taylor’s tactical acumen; and the explosive talent of Stan Collymore, whose performances lit up Roots Hall in the 1990s. Each photograph is accompanied by expertly crafted captions from lifelong fans Peter Miles and David Goody, bringing context and warmth to every image.
Many of the pictures included in this collection are rare, with some never before published, making the book essential for anyone with a connection to Southend United. It serves as both a celebration and a record—a place where old memories are rekindled, and younger generations can discover the club’s rich tapestry. Images of Sport: Southend United Football Club is more than a history book; it’s a visual love letter to a team that has meant so much to so many in Essex and beyond.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 (PAID)
Publisher: Tempus Publishing Limited
Published: 2000
Price: £19.99
Softcover: 128 pages
Lavishly illustrated
This book is in excellent condition and would enhance any collection.
