Some stories are too good to fade into obscurity. The tale of Worcester City FC—the plucky non-league club that famously toppled Liverpool in 1959 in front of 15,111 passionate fans at St George's Lane is one such narrative, and Chris Bishop proves the perfect chronicler for this remarkable journey.
Bishop, whose family has deep roots in Worcestershire dating back to the 16th century, brings five decades of journalistic experience to this loving portrait of non-league football's enduring spirit. His intimate knowledge of the local football scene transforms what could have been a simple sports story into a rich tapestry of community resilience and sporting passion.
The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together multiple narratives: the famous Liverpool giant-killing, the club's recent struggles, and the broader story of how non-league football survives in the shadow of the Premier League's billions. Bishop's reporting skills shine through in detailed accounts of the club's financial battles and ground troubles, while his storytelling prowess brings to life the characters who've fought to keep the dream alive.
Particularly compelling is the author's exploration of the interconnected fates of three Worcestershire clubs: Worcester City, Stourbridge (which produced England star Jude Bellingham), and Kidderminster Harriers. Through these parallel narratives, Bishop illustrates the broader challenges facing lower-tier football in modern Britain.
While the book occasionally meanders into too much detail about administrative meetings and ground regulations, these moments are forgiven thanks to the author's authentic voice and genuine affection for his subject. The inclusion of John Barton's foreword adds valuable perspective from someone who's experienced the club from both sides of the touchline.
A vital addition to the canon of books about football's grassroots, this is both a love letter to non-league football and a warning about its fragility. Essential reading for anyone interested in the soul of the beautiful game beyond the Premier League's glitz.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 [Delivered to You 3rd Week April 2025]
Published: April 7, 2025
Hardcover: 224 pages
ISBN-10: 1801509549
ISBN-13: 978-1801509541
Dimensions: 222 x 144 (mm)
