On this day in 1958, Bill Nicholson embarked on his managerial career with a remarkable debut as he led Tottenham Hotspur to a resounding victory over Everton. The First Division match, held at White Hart Lane, saw Spurs triumph with an astonishing 10-4 scoreline. This match marked the beginning of Nicholson’s illustrious tenure as manager, setting the stage for his future successes with the club. The victory was a significant moment in Tottenham’s 1958/59 season, showcasing the attacking prowess of Nicholson’s side.
11th October 1994
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Fast forward to 1994, and 11th October marked a significant day for Northampton Town as they played their final match at the County Ground. Known for its challenging playing surface, the County Ground was the last League venue to double as a cricket ground. The pitch’s condition was often criticised due to its use as a spectator area, car park, and picnic area during the cricket season. On this day, Northampton Town faced a 0-1 defeat against Mansfield Town in a Division 3 clash. This match was the end of an era for the Cobblers, who moved to the newly constructed Sixfields Stadium just four days later, where they drew 1-1 with Barnet in their inaugural match at the new venue.
11th October 2014
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In 2014, an unusual situation unfolded during a League 2 match between Carlisle United and Stevenage. The match featured two goalkeeping substitutes with a combined age of 95, highlighting an injury crisis that led to an extraordinary scenario. Stevenage’s goalkeeping coach, Dave Beasant, a former England international, found himself on the substitutes’ bench at the age of 55, 11 years after retiring from professional play. Meanwhile, Carlisle’s goalkeeping coach, Tony Caig, aged 40, was a regular presence on the bench for his team. Despite the potential for a historic appearance, neither Beasant nor Caig took to the field, as Carlisle secured a 3-0 victory over Stevenage. Had Beasant played, he would have set a record as the oldest player in the Football League.