Red Rose Glory
Football’s Fiercest Battles
From the earliest days of English football, Lancashire has stood at the heart of the game’s evolution. During the late 1800s, the county’s clubs sparked a revolution by pushing for professionalism, with Preston North End leading the charge. Their decision to pay players changed the sport forever, laying the groundwork for the establishment of the world’s first Football League. That inaugural competition was dominated by teams from the Northwestand Midlands, but it was Preston’s “Invincibles” who truly made history. They swept through the league unbeaten, then capped their season by securing the FA Cup—a trophy already familiar to Blackburn’s two leading clubs.
As the years unfolded, Lancashire’s influence only grew. The great clubs of Merseyside and Manchester soon emerged as giants, collecting silverware and setting new standards for success. Yet the county’s footballing story was never just about the big names. Blackpool, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Bury, and Oldham all rose to prominence, leaving their own indelible marks on the top flight. Meanwhile, teams like Rochdale and Wigan fought for recognition in areas previously dominated by rugby, demonstrating the deep and widespread roots of football in Lancashire.
The county’s footballing tapestry is rich with drama—rivalries forged in the heat of local derbies, moments of scandal and heartbreak, and the enduring loyalty of supporters. From the packed terraces of historic grounds to the windswept pitches of lesser-known clubs, the red rose of Lancashire has flown proudly. Even in recent years, teams such as Fleetwood Town and Morecambe have excelled, bringing the essence of their towns to the national arena.
“Lancashire Turf Wars” captures the essence of these historic clubs and their legendary players. It’s a tale of triumph and adversity, of communities united by football, and of a county whose impact has been felt far beyond its borders. Through changing times and shifting fortunes, Lancashire’s contribution to the beautiful game remains undeniable—a legacy built on passion, grit, and a fierce will to win.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Published: September 29, 2018
Price: £12.99
Paperback: 352 pages
ISBN-10: 1785314351
ISBN-13: 978-1785314353
Dimensions: 139 x 215 (mm)
