Away-days to Hampden

The Scottish Cup Final 1972 and showpiece event of the season, was a match-up between high-flying Hibernian, and title holders Celtic. Both sides were exponents of free-flowing football and a bumper crowd of 106,000 were in attendance.

John ‘Dixie’ Deans stole the show scoring a hat-trick, as Jock Stein’s men capitalized on some uncharacteristic defensive frailties in the Hibs backline, to secure the famous trophy. Though no gymnast, Deans’ exuberance prompted a near-perfect somersault after putting his side 4-1 in front. Lou Macari added a late double to complete the scoring.

Scottish Cup Final: Celtic v Hibs

On the second visit eighteen months later, the sides faced off in the League Cup Final. Despite Hibs striker Joe Harper pitching-in with a treble, Celtic repeated their six-goal exploits to secure the silverware. With stats of two-from two, Hampden Park Glasgow, became the venue of choice.

Despite the occasional setback, each visit to the National stadium was treasured.

Recently, focus has concentrated on the attempts by the Scottish National side to reach the latter stages of European Championship and World Cup events. Though less fruitful than once was the case, it has provided an array of exhilarating moments. Take for instance the 2008 Euro-qualifying campaign, where Scotland triumphed over holders France, both home and away, before succumbing to World Cup holders Italy at a rain-soaked Hampden, in the final qualifying tie.

The last visit was the sweetest of them all.

The Scottish Football Museum, housed within the National Stadium, offers an insight into the rich history of the game. Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff set the tone during an afternoon of imaginative discovery. The origins of the game; its early pioneers; dress code, wages & conditions and community involvement, are all laid bare.

The interactive experience allows participants the opportunity to stand on the terracing; to replicate Archie Gemmill’s iconic 1978 goal, measure your shooting prowess, run-up the tunnel to the Hampden roar and lift the Cup. Educational, informative and entertaining.

And as Scottish Football prepares to return, the perfect pre-season antidote to home-schooling.

Archie Gemmill’s 1978 World Cup Goal

And as Scottish Football prepares to return, the perfect pre-season antidote to home-schooling.

We hope you enjoyed the article ‘Scottish Football Away Days History.’  What are your favourite away days memories? Let us know!

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