League Cup Final 2013 by Peter Brennan

CUP FINAL

BRANDON DAVIS EVENT TIMES™

MA GA ZI N E

Bradford City Vs Swansea City

WEMBLEY | LEAGUE CUP FINAL 24 FEB 2013 - 4:00 PM | £10

Features

The Road To Wembley

The Team

Interview With John Hendrie

Last Visit To Wembley

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CUP FINAL MAGAZINE

Brandon Davis Event Times - TM

Welcome

Publisher Brandon Davis Editor Peter Brennan Designer Peter Brennan

Web Development Peter Brennan Editorial Colin J Abbott, Joe Merchant Images Getty Images, Colour Sport Enquiries E: info@eventtimes.co.uk Please note: (C) 2013 - BRANDON DAVIS EVENT TIMES Event Times. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written permission of the copyright owners. Every effort has been made by the publisher to ensure the accuracy of this publication; the publisher cannot accept responsibility for the errors or omissions. In the interest of independence and impartiality, many features in this publication have been written by third-party experts. Any opinions expressed therein are views of the views of the writers, players/managers or other interviewees themselves and are not necessarily the views of the brandon davis event times. THE BRANDON DAVIS EVENT TIMES CUP FINAL MAGAZINE IS AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED PUBLICATION.IT HAS NO CONNECTION WITH THE FA , WEMBLEY STADIUM LTD, ANY FOOTBALL CLUB OR ANY OTHER BODY.THIS PUBLICATION IS REGISTERED WITH THE UK GOVERNMENT AS A PERIODICAL NEWSPAPER - REGISTRATION NUMBER N5682 - THIS PUBLICATION IS PERIODICALLY PUBLISHED MORE FREQUENTLY THAN EVERY 26 DAYS -THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION IS THE 21ST FEBRUARY 2013 - THE DATE OF THE NEXT PUBLICATION IS THE 28 TH FEBRUARY 2013 - CONTACT INFO@EVENTTIMES.CO.UK FOR FURTHER PUBLICATION DATES / SCHEDULES.

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Welcome to this unique magazine to commemorative the 2013 Capital One Cup Final at Wembley. Now in it’s 53rd year the League Cup in it’s various guises has been won by only 22 different clubs. Regardless of the result a new team will have it’s name adorned on the famous trophy today, whether it’s your side or Swansea City. It has the makings of being a classic cup-tie, both sides are more than capable of scoring goals and when you look at the run your side embarked on to reach this stage you should rightly feel that winning is within your grasp. How many fourth-tier teams can claim to have knocked out three Premier League sides? Swansea cannot be taken lightly. Their journey to Wembley is one that is no less extraordinary than yours. Not many sides can claim to have knocked the reigning European Champions out, especially on their own patch. Finally it is a great occasion for you – the fans. With neither yourself nor Swansea having been to Wembley to play in a major final it’s a very special occasion for both sets of supporters. Make the most of your day and may the best team win. Good luck Bradford.

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WEMBLEY

Contents

THE R OAD TO

Features

The Road To Wembley | BRADFORD

6 | The Road To Wembley

January is usually the month of new hope for football clubs, especially those struggling at the wrong end of the table, like Villa. It brings the opening (and the closing) of the winter transfer window and the cob-webs can be dusted off the poor results that have gone but not forgotten and there’s the thought of Spring in sight, bringing fresh hope of better times ahead. tams from falling into non-league obscurity could take many positives from the tie and his teams endeavour. The seven players who were handed debuts gelled well together and the result was With Bradford’s League Two cam- enough to see Bradford safely paign beginning the following into round two of the Capital One week it was imperative that they Cup. travelled to Meadow Lane looking to improve on last seasons paltry return of only four away league wins. The fact that League One side Notts County had been denied a play-off place due only to goal difference highlighted the difficulty of their task. FIRST ROUND

NOTTS COUNTY 0 BRADFORD CITY 1 Hanson 95 aet 0-0

Take a look at the long and successful cup run, with beating three premiership sides to reach the final.

Bradford more than matched the higher placed outfit with a polished, determined display. They also rode their luck at times; Arquinn was unfortunate for the hosts when his shot from only yards out rattled the woodwork. With the game concluding at 90 minutes in deadlock, extra time would hopefully be kind to the Bantams. James Hanson who had notched a career best 14 goals in the 2011/12 season was rewarded with grabbing the match winner when he struck a sublime curler into the top corner following neat build up play between Reid and Wells.

12 | The Manager

We look at the man that has guided Bradford to Wembley, manager Phil Parkinson.

Manager Phil Parkinson who had in his first season kept the Ban-

INTERVIEW | with John Hendrie

Started as an apprentice at Coventry City where Dave Sexton gave him his debut. Games were limited at Highfield Road and John made the switch to Third Division outfit Bradford City. Promotion was achieved in the first season and the right-winger had a memorable four years at Valley Parade where he played in excess of 170 consecutive league games and missed out by a fraction on top-flight football. After a brief period with Newcastle United and Leeds John had six years at Middlesbrough. He played Premiership football in his time at Boro, was top scorer in 1995 when they won promotion back to the top flight and has the distinction of scoring the last ever goal at Ayresome Park, their home for over 90 years. He then moved to Barnsley where the club achieved top-tier football for the first time in their history. When his playing career finished he went on to manage Barnsley.

Programmes from the Notts County & Watford Games

Line up; Duke, McArdle, Meredith, Oliver, Darby, G Jones, Thompson (Baker), Reid (Doyle), Atkinson, Hanson, Connell (Wells) Unused subs; Bass, McLaughlin, Hannah, Brown

SECOND ROUND

WATFORD 1 BRADFORD CITY 2 Reid 84, Thompson 90+4

counter, which appeared, settled when Watford’s Ikechi Anya put the home side ahead with just over quarter of an hour remaining. With time running out Bradford found themselves on equal terms when a fierce Kyle Reid drive found the back of the net.

Bantam’s fans were hoping their side could hold out for extra-time and possibly penalties, when in time added on Watford custodian Bond could only parry a Reid

with John Hendrie | INTERVIEW

Bradford Legend

An Interview with

with the ball. Then you’ve got a good combination up front, little and large, James Hanson, he’s a threat in the air, he’s great in both boxes and at set pieces. Nahki Wells is a great player but he wouldn’t be half as effective if James wasn’t in the team. James is the one whose winning flick-ons for Nahki to feed off.

and then penalties, it was just surreal. Bradford as a city over the past few years has had a lot of detractors. We had the riots and Bradford being a multi-cultural city and what have you. People say it’s been run down, but when you see on the TV all the What thoughts do you have reBradford fans and a lot of Asian garding the Final? Bradford were through first but I was Bradford fans with their Bradford delighted that Swansea got through scarves on who are proud to support Bradford City and the events of for a few reasons. First and foremost Bradford have got a far better that night, seeing the joy on all the faces then that’s something special. chance of beating Swansea than It just summed the whole occasion they would have against Chelsea. up. Over the course of the year beAnother reason is that if Bradford cause of the cup run there will be a have to lose then I’d rather see them lose to Swansea as it’s some- lot of new Bradford City fans and Bradford people are extremely body new on the cup, it’s as much as an achievement for them as it is proud of what this team has for us and for both sets of support- achieved. ers it promises to be a brilliant day What do you think of the current out. squad? Bradford have a great spirit and rapBest match in the cup run? Arsenal! People say the league cup port for one another at the football club and I don’t think it’s a coinciisn’t important to Arsenal. They wanted that game, no mistake. They dence that they’re not over enQuestions haven’t won a trophy for years and dowed with a surplus of foreign What do you think of Bradford’s they were aware that a lot of the big players. Bradford only have the one cup run and beating three Preand the rest are just good honest boys had been knocked out of the mier League sides in the situation. When the Bradford boys pro’s. You ask any genuine football process? fan and they’ll probably say with all looked at the Arsenal teamsheet It’s an incredible achievement parthe foreign players there’s a weakthey thought, ‘Wow, this is all ticularly in this day and age when household names, these are all su- ness in the game and the clubs there’s such a massive gulf between perstars here. The type of players don’t have the same affinity, a lack top tier and fourth tier clubs. I honBradford’s lads could only dream of of bonding or gelling. The entire estly don’t think it will ever happen side work their socks off for one anplaying against and ones that the again, far from it. What Bradford other, they are all workmanlike and Bradford public had never seen have achieved in nothing short of graft for each other. play. In all fairness Bradford did remarkable. I know Wigan didn’t ever so well in the first-half, they got The key for me is the two guys in have their top team out but both Ar- the goal and held on. In the second- the middle of the park, The skipper senal and Aston Villa fielded strong half and extra-time Arsenal just Gary Jones and Nathan Doyle, no sides. Bradford rode their luck a bombarded them. Bradford carried a nonsense midfielders, both strong wee bit but their preparation was boys they’ll sit just in front of the debit of luck on the night. You can’t spot on as was their attitude and the say Arsenal didn’t want it! But to fenders, win the ball and get it out to way they applied themselves. Phil the wide lads who can do something take them (Arsenal) the distance

Take a look at the team that has reached the final and some of Bradfords all time greats.

18 | Interview With John Hendrie

Parkinson had done his homework, all four goals against Aston Villa were from set pieces, he knew this was Villa’s Achilles. This hasn’t just taken the country by surprise but it’s all over the world.

John in his playing days at Bradford

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HISTORY | BRADFORS

HISTORY | BRADFORS Having disposed of Blackpool 3-2 on aggregate in the play-off semi-final the Bantams had set up a showdown against Notts County. The Final was to be held at Wembley, May 26th 1996. Since Bradford’s formation in 1903 the club had never played at the world renowned stadium, their famous FA Cup win of 1911 being staged at the Crystal Palace. Notts County on the other hand had played at the venue four times in the last six seasons. For the city and the team of Bradford it was a novelty, no one wanted to miss out, the crowd of 39,972 for the showpiece was predominantly of claret and amber persuasion. Tickets sales from the Bradford area numbered in excess of 28,000. With City chairman Geoffrey Richmond’s “Well boys you can play either Bury or Manchester City next season – it’s up to you.” words of wisdom ringing in their ears, Chris Kamara’s men took to the battlefield.

26 May 1996, Bradford City 2 Notts County 0

“Well boys you can play either Bury or Manchester City next season – it’s up to you.” Bradford City chairman Geoffrey Richmond

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Lastly what is your fondest memory of your time with Bradford City? Rather than just one I think it was what we achieved on the field in the four years I was there. When I went into Bradford we were a struggling third tier club and when I left we’d just missed out in the play-offs to the top tier. In my time there I played 173 consecutive league games. I missed the crucial home game against Ipswich (a win would have guaranteed automatic promotion) where we lost as I’d been sent off two weeks earlier against Man City. What got us in the end was a shortage of players; we only used 14 or 15. The manager Terry Dolan wanted two players in, Andy Townsend and Keith Curle, it would have cost £500,000 to get them, but the board wouldn’t back him. Had we got them I’m convinced we’d have achieved top-flight football. If you ask a lot of Bradford City fans they’ll say that was their favourite Bradford team. Myself and Stuart McCall left that summer, I went to Newcastle, I left a better team, I’m not saying club because Newcastle are massive but Bradford were definitely a better team at the time. I could play football until I’m 100-years-of-age but I’d never find the same team spirit that existed at Bradford, there was such a strong bond right throughout the club, and it was phenomenal. In my first year there we won the Third Division title. That was the season of the fire in the last game against Lincoln (The worst day of my life). For a time after that we had to play at Elland Road, Huddersfield’s ground Leeds Road and Odsal Stadium but were back at Valley Parade 18 months later. Bobby Robson bought the England team over including Kevin Keegan to the stadium and that was a fantastic achievement by Bradford to get back there. We kicked on slowly but surely and I had four delightful years there.

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20 | Last Visit To Wembley

We look at Bradford City’s last visit to Wembley under th en m an ager Chris Kamara, in the 19 9 6 p lay-off final, leavi ng w inners and be i ng p romot ed

Another closely matched en

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13 | The Team

We talk to one of Bradford City’s legend and greats John Hendrie, about the Bradford team and City’s Visit to Wembley

Another away tie to contend and against better opposition, this time Championship side Watford, the 300 or so travelling Bradford fans wanting a repeat of Saturdays scoreline when they put five past AFC Wimbledon.

The team selected to do the job; Gould, Huxford, Jacobs, Mitchell, Mohan, Youds, Kiwomya, Duxbury, Shutt, Stallard, Hamilton Subs Ormondroyd, Wright, Tolson

Bradford City settled any nerves they might have had when they got the vital first goal after only eight minutes. Bradford born Des Hamilton had

beaten three County defenders and then the goalkeeper after clever play down the wing from attacking fullback Huxford. His cross had been headed on by Carl Shutt, the inch perfect pass falling right into Hamilton’s path. Gould did what was expected of him in the City goal when County finally breached the Bantams defence, Finnan’s shot lacked conviction and it was a case of smothering the ball. In a half with few chances both Youds, who fired wide and Shutt whose effort was blocked, looked the likeliest to add to the slender lead. In the closing minutes of the first period a Shutt attempt was kept out when the ball struck the ’keeper’s ankle. County came out the more purposeful, in a short space of time they had

been repelled on three occasions. Two shots had been blocked and Martindale had been unlucky to see his header fly just the wrong side of the upright. Gould again was called upon when he tipped a speculative shot from Battersby over the crossbar. For all county’s pressure they couldn’t muster up an equaliser. Stallard went close to doubling the Bantams lead but was thwarted by Darren Ward. With quarter of an hour remaining, Bradford legend Ian Ormondroyd came on to replace the injured goalscorer Hamilton. With his first touch of the ball he neatly flicked on a Huxford cross. ‘Sticks’ header found Stallard in space who smartly volleyed home from close range. County had a couple of late, half hearted efforts go wide and over but they knew it wasn’t going to be their day. The papers all made out that it had been easier for Bradford than it really had been with quotes like, ‘City cruised to victory,’ or ‘City played with a width, verve and pace which embarrassed County’ and ‘a professional job by a spirited and swift team.’ Notts County boss Colin Murphy was gracious in defeat stating, ‘All credit to Bradford, they won it fair and square. And that does not always happen in football. Bradford are a very experienced side compared to mine.’ To mark the event the team were driven through the city in an open top bus to a Civic reception held in their honour. They also hosted a friendly against Dutch side Feyenoord to celebrate the victory. Bradford remain unbeaten at Wembley, will that be the case at the end of the month?

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Interview with John Hendrie p20

The Team p13

Last Visit at Wembley p20

The Road To Wembley p6

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BRADFORD | The Road To Wembley

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WEMBLEY TH E RO AD TO

The Road To Wembley | BRADFORD

Following away ties and unexpected victories at Notts County and Watford who were both in higher divisions, all the Bantams fans wanted was the advantage of a home tie…Be careful what you wish for! tams from falling into non-league obscurity could take many posiNOTTS COUNTY 0 tives from the tie and his teams BRADFORD CITY 1 endeavour. The seven players Hanson 95 aet 0-0 who were handed debuts gelled well together and the result was With Bradford’s League Two cam- enough to see Bradford safely paign beginning the following into round two of the Capital One week it was imperative that they Cup. travelled to Meadow Lane looking to improve on last seasons paltry return of only four away league wins. The fact that League One side Notts County had been denied a play-off place due only to goal difference highlighted the difficulty of their task. FIRST ROUND

Manager Phil Parkinson who had in his first season kept the Ban-

Programmes from the Notts County & Watford Games

Line up; Duke, McArdle, Meredith, Oliver, Darby, G Jones, Thompson (Baker), Reid (Doyle), Atkinson, Hanson, Connell (Wells) Unused subs; Bass, McLaughlin, Hannah, Brown SECOND ROUND

WATFORD 1 BRADFORD CITY 2 Reid 84, Thompson 90+4

Bantam’s fans were hoping their side could hold out for extra-time and possibly penalties, when in time added on Watford custodian Bond could only parry a Reid

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The Road To Wembley

[Hard Long Road ] free-kick into the path of Garry Thompson, who made no mistake, not only scoring his first goal for city but giving them a dramatic albeit very late winner. Joe McLaughlin recalled to the team showed his delight by running the length of the Vicarage Road pitch to join in the celebrations. Two away wins against superior, higher placed league opposition roll on the third round draw!

Line up; McLaughlin, McArdle, Meredith (Hanson), Oliver, Darby, McHugh, Atkinson, G Jones (Doyle), Thompson, Hines (Reid), Connell Unused subs; Baker, Duke, Bass, Hannah

THIRD ROUND

BRADFORD CITY 3 BURTON ALBION 2

Defender Stephen Darby, the only man on the pitch to have played in the Champions League in his time with Liverpool

Wells 83 90 Darby 115 aet 2-2

bagged his second of the night to take the tie into extra-time. It was becoming a bit of a habit, City leaving it late!

A home tie at the third time of asking and against a fellow League Two team though the supporters chose to stay away in large numbers, no doubt due partly to the miserable rainy conditions. The 4,178 crowd being far less than 50% of their average league attendances.

Within the opening half hour Burton had raced into a two-goal lead even though it was a buoyant City who came into the tie on the back of three consecutive league victories and had had the lions share of the possession up until that point. With only seven minutes remaining and a considerable amount of disillusioned home fans having left the Coral Windows Stadium, Nahki Wells halved the deficit.

Right at the death, that man Wells

Line up; Duke, Darby, Davies, McArdle, Meredith, Hines (Wells), G Jones, Ravenhill (Reid), Atkinson, Connell (Hanson), ThompDefender Stephen son Darby, the only man on Unused subs; McLaughlin, Oliver, the pitch to have played in the McHugh, Doyle Champions League (in his time with Liverpool) was the surprise package when his FOURTH ROUND speculative effort from well WIGAN ATHLETIC 0 outside the box found it’s way BRADFORD CITY 0 into the net off the post. Darby’s effort in the second-pe- aet Bradford won 4-2 penalties riod of extra-time was enough to break Burton Albion’s resist- Cup fever was coming to Valley ance and fire the Bantams into Parade, or more to the point the last 16 of the Capital One 5,000 City fans were descending Cup. The furthest they had on the DW Stadium to support reached since crashing to a 1- their unlikely heroes in their quest 0 home defeat to Bristol City against Premier League outfit in the quarter-finals in 1989. Wigan.

Nathan Doyle in action

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Wigan had emphatically disposed of Nottingham Forest 4-1 at the

City Ground before repeating the same scoreline at Upton Park. Bradford couldn’t take them lightly. Both teams had surpassed all expectation to meet each other in this Fourth Round tie.

Notwithstanding the fact City were missing three key players from the weekend defeat at Burton, they turned in a very disciplined performance to keep their hosts from scoring, not just for the 90 minutes of normal time but the added 30 minutes of extra-time also. Bradford were to face the nemesis of England’s football team – penalties. Would their nerve hold?

Parkinson’s men were more than up to the task, they coolly slotted home their first four spot kicks. They weren’t called on to take a fifth as Duke’s save from Gomez meant the Bantam’s couldn’t be caught. Goalkeeper Matt Duke had pulled off some excellent saves during open play on the odd occasion that Wigan had penetrated the resolute Bantam’s defence. Bradford had clinched a spot in the quarter-finals by virtue of the 4-2 penalty shootout. Their seventh straight shoot-out victory, they certainly had mettle!

Line up; Duke, Darby, McHugh, McArdle, Meredith, Hines (Baker), Thompson (G Jones), Doyle, Atkinson, Wells (Connell), Hanson Unused subs; McLaughlin, Brown, Bass, Swain QUARTER-FINAL

BRADFORD CITY 1 ARSENAL 1

Thompson 16 aet 1-1 Bradford won 3-2 on penalties

This game will be talked about in Bradford for years to come, it will be part of club folklore. Long before the match started the atmosphere, tension and anticipation around Bradford’s

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ground, fondly remembered as Valley Parade, were building to a level not experienced since Premier League football stopped off in these parts.

among others.

With 87 minutes on the clock Arsenal pull the tie back, 1-1, City don’t fully clear a corner and Vermaelen nods in a far The floodlit sky always adds to post cross. Into extra-time and the occasion and the ‘just shy’ Jones clears from his line. Cagate of 24,000 certainly played zorla drive thudders against the its part. You have to go back 12 crossbar. Bradford have a few years and the visit of Liverpool chances but it remains even for the last time a crowd close to and penalties will decide the tie. this size shoehorned itself into the ground. City go two up as Arsenal miss their first two spot kicks. Darby A full strength Arsenal go closest misses for City while Arsenal early on before City are awarded convert one. Both sides score a free-kick. Taken by Gary Jones with their next respective kicks. the ball goes through a packed Bradford are 3-2 up, only one box to midfielder Thompson who penalty kick left for each side. scores only his second goal of Ritchie Jones can elevate himthe campaign. The ground self to hero status and shoot the erupts. Bantam’s into the semis, but he fails when the goalie saves it. The Gunners hit the woodwork City fans are stunned, have and have shots flying past the they thrown it away? Vermaelen wrong side of the uprights as takes his kick, you can hear a does Wells for the home side, pin drop. The spot kick hits the but City hold out until the interpost. Bradford are into the semival. Duke has made a few smart finals! saves. Line up; With 20 minutes remaining ArDuke, Darby, McHugh, sene Wenger sends on Oxlade- McArdle, Meredith, ThompChamberlain and Rosicky. son (R Jones), Doyle, G Parkinson follows suit and on go Jones, Atkinson (Turgott), Ritchie Jones and Alan Connell. Hanson, Wells (Connell) Duke carries on where he left off Unused subs; McLaughlin, and pulls off saves from Wilshire Ravenhill, Hines, Good

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Vermaelen takes his kick, you can hear a pin drop. The spot kick hits the post. Bradford are into the semifinals!

SEMI-FINAL 1st Leg

BRADFORD CITY 3 ASTON VILLA 1

Wells 19 McArdle 77 McHugh 88

Another big crowd for the visit of Premier League side Aston Villa who brought up over 4,300 of their own fans to add to the unique atmosphere.

Villa had the earlier chances and for better finishing from their striker Benteke, the Midlands side could have been three up before the half hour mark. Nahki Wells took his chance in a visibly shaky defence and scored from it. Bradford weren’t outclassed by their illustrious visitors and led 1-0 at the interval though this was due not only to sloppy finishing from Villa but also top class saves from Matt Duke. McArdle put City two nil up with 13 minutes remaining and Bradford fans were dreaming of what if. The noise had hardly died down when villa pulled one back and put a whole different slant on the semifinal outcome.

Parkinson had obviously done his homework on the opposition and instructed his players to exploit the poor man marking of Villa’s defence. They were so vulnerable at set pieces and City were to use this to their advantage. Another corner and the result another goal. Bradford restored their two-goal lead when McHugh buried his header after being left free in the box. The time of the third goal - the 88th minute, something Bradford have done repeatedly.

Ultimately it was only half-time in the tie but the City fans must have been hopeful of watching their side become the first Fourth Tier side to win through to a Wembley Cup Final.

Line up; Duke, Darby, McArdle, McHugh, Good, Hines (Turgott), G Jones, Doyle, Atkinson, Wells, Hanson Unused subs; McLaughlin, Ravenhill, Reid, R Jones, Hannah, Connell

SEMI-FINAL 2nd Leg

ASTON VILLA 2 BRADFORD CITY 1

Hanson 55 Bradford won 4-3

Bradford came down to the Midlands early to take advantage of the facilities open to them at St Georges, the Football Association’s national football centre, due to their inability to train at home due to the snow. They were followed down the next day by a 6,500 strong claret and amber army.

Aston Villa playing for only the second time at home to a 40,000+ gate during the current campaign must have been hoping the huge crowd would intimidate the Bradford City players. The entire Bradford squad cost less than an average Premier League player will pocket for a single days work.

Bradford could have scored another when neat play down the left flank resulted in the ball being transferred to the opposite side of the pitch before a speculative Garry Thompson shot from outside the box shuddered the Villa crossbar with the goalkeeper well beaten.

Phil Parkinson in only his second season with Bradford had led his side to their first ever League Cup Final

It was a case of a too little, too late when Weimann pulled one back in front of the Villa started the game like they meant Holte End. Bradford held out for the rebusiness. Their striker Christian Benteke maining minutes and the whistle went to missed glaring chances and the home signal the end of the game amid scenes side finally halved the deficit in the 24th of pure joy. minute. Bradford hardly ventured into their opponents half but the possession Phil Parkinson in only his second seathat the home club enjoyed didn’t lead to son with Bradford had led his side to further first-half goals. City were still their first ever League Cup Final. They leading at this stage 3-2. had beaten their third Premier League side in their amazing cup run and had During the break manager Parkinson in- won convincingly 4-2 on aggregate. structed his players to get further up the field to rattle the home defence. This Line up; paid dividends when Villa failed to clear Duke, Darby, McHugh, McArdle Good, yet another set piece and James HanHines (Thompson), G Jones, Doyle, son rose above his marker to head Atkinson, Hanson, Wells (Turgott) home in front of the bewildered City trav- Unused subs; McLaughlin, Ravenhill, elling ranks. Reid, Connell, Nelson

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THE MANAGER

hil Parkinson’s footballing career began as a 17-year-old trainee for Southampton. With Saints boss Chris Nicholl never giving him a shot at first-team football during his time at the Dell, Phil went to Bury in 1988. He stayed with the third tier side for four years in which he made nearly 150 appearances. Mark McGhee, manager of Reading took the dynamic midfielder to Elm Park and Parkinson took Second Division football in his stride. His consistent and determined performances in the centre of the park made him a household name for the Royals and he was part of the Division Two Championship winning side 1993/94. They then lost out in the playoffs for the Premiership the following season, before falling out of Division One (second tier) in ’98. In a recent poll by Reading fans Phil not only made the all time best XI for Reading but he was

We look at playing and magaing career of the man who has Like at Bury Parkinson gave his all, he guided Bradford to their first League Cup Final won player of the year, two seasons in succession for the Royals and went on to amass in excess of 420 appearances. Even today, a decade after he left the club the fans still sing about him, such was his popularity. Parkinson hung his boots up in 2003 to embark on a managerial career. Colchester United were prepared to give the rookie a shot at management. Taking over from Steve Whitton in February 2003 when The U’s were only two points from safety, his first game was won 4-1 at home to Port Vale. This set the trend for the rest of the season and under his guidance Colchester lost only three of their remaining 13 fixtures and finished the season in a very creditable 12th position. He won his first Manager of the Month award in March that year. A good cup run and then a promotion in 2005/6 to the Championship made other club chairman sit up and take notice.

Hull City won Parkinson’s signature to replace Peter Taylor though it cost them £400,000 compensation. This affair was short lived as heavy defeats in December led to a ‘by mutual consent’ parting of the ways. Other managerial posts were turned down in order to work under Alan Pardew at Charlton, they had previously worked alongside each other at Reading. Pardew left in November 2008 and Parkinson was giving the reins after serving in a caretaker capacity for two months, he was unable to stave off relegation to the third tier at the end of the campaign. The new season got off to a flyer for Parkinson’s Charlton with six consecutive victories but they would have to settle for the play-offs come the end where they missed out at the semifinal stage to Swindon Town in a penalty shoot-out.

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Due to the club’s precarious financial position key players were sold and this impacted on results. Novembers run of eight unbeaten league and cup matches resulted in yet another Manager of the Month award but results dipped shortly after and early in the January 2011 Phil was shown the door. Peter Jackson a former fans favourite at Valley Parade who played nearly 300 games for the Bantams was installed as manager in February 2011 but after poor results tendered his resignation which was accepted by the Bradford board in Aug 2011. Colin Cooper was given the role in a caretaker capacity but this lasted only a week before Parkinson came into the hotseat. Installed as manager of Bradford City AFC in the last week of August 2011. As they say, the rest is history! Colin Abbott

Bradford City Form Guide

With the first season at Bradford out of the way, Parkinson would be looking to improve on the 18th position they achieved. His wheeling and dealing would see 25 players leave while 21 would arrive. Changing so many personnel can take it’s toll on a team but after eight games in, City were in fourth place having won all four of their home games. At this stage they had already negotiated three rounds of the Capital One Cup having beaten two sides higher in the pyramid. Fast forward to January and Bradford were sitting seventh, out of a play-off place on goal difference alone. The defence is solid and their attack of Wells and Hanson have weighed in with 21 goals. An extended cup run, resulting in a fourth tier side appearing in a major Wembley Final has rightly made front-page headlines and news on a global scale for their exploits in eliminating three Premier League sides is great for a club the size of Bradford. Moral at the club is has skyrocketed and promotion is well within their grasp. The only downside is that stars of the side (Hines, McHugh, Darby, McArdle and Wells) who were once anonymous are now no longer under the radar. Bradford may well find it hard to resist the lure of hard cash.

Chairman: Mark Lawn Julian Rhodes Manager: Phil Parkinson League: League Two Captain: Gary Jones Year Formed: 1903; 110 years ago Ground: Valley Parade Capacity: 25,136 Team Colours: Claret and Amber Nickname: The Bantams

FACTFILE League English second tier (currently Football League Championship)

Winners (1): 1907–08 Runners-up (1): 1998–99[110] English third tier (currently Football League One)

Winners (1): 1984–85 Play-off winners (1): 1995–96[111] English fourth tier

(currently Football League Two)

Runners-up (1): 1981–82 Promoted (2): 1968–69, 1976–77 Division Three (North) Winners (1): 1928–29 Cups FA Cup Winners (1): 1911 Third Division North Challenge Cup Winners (1): 1939 Runners-up (1): 1938

HONOURS

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Bradford City

The Squad

One to Watch

The Heartbeat

Stephens started his career as a Liverpool youth. He eventually found a place in the Liverpool senior team but I only ever made one Appearance. During his time at Liverpool he had loan spells at Swindon Town, Notts County and Rochdale. Within four days of his release he signed on at Bradford city where he has made the right-back position his own. Weighed in with the winning goal in extra-time against Burton Albion in the Capital One Cup

Rory is a central-defender who’s represented Northern Ireland on five occasions. His club career started as a trainee for Sheffield Wednesday but his time there only saw him make one appearance to the owls. Mcardle had two loan spells at Rochdale before signing permantly. After 120 appearances he signed for Aberdeen, two years on and Mcardle signed for Bradford. He has currently made 27 apperances for Bradford and scored the second goal in a 3-1 victory over Aston Villa in the Semi Finals of the Capital One Cup.

STEPHEN DARBY

RORY McARDLE

Came into the game relatively late and had his first taste of league football with Burton Albion in 2000 aged 33. He enjoyed four seasons at the Pirelli Stadium making 89 league and cup appearances for the Brewers. Peter Taylor saw enough in Duke to take him to Hull City for a fee of around £20,000, predominantly as cover to Boaz Myhill. In just short of seven years on Humberside Matt played only 57 matches for the Tigers but appeared for them in a Premier League match at Upton Park, reward after impressing against Newcastle United over two FA Cup ties when Hull knocked the Magpies out at St James Park. He saved a penalty and was voted man of the match. Duke had three loans spells during his time at Hull - Stockport, Wycombe and Derby County. Released during Nigel Pearson’s reign as Hull City manager in May 2011, Matt had a trial and played half a game for his boyhood heroes Sheffield United. Nothing materialised and on the last day of August Duke signed for Bradford. Initially loaned out in February 2012 but recalled. Matt Duke has been instrumental in Bradford reaching the Final saving penalties in both the Wigan and Arsenal ties.

McHugh started his Career at Reading but never made an Appearance. He had two loan spells for Swindon and Dundalk, however he only made 19 Appearances between the two clubs. McHugh Signed for Bradford City in August 2012 and made his debut in the Capital One Cup against Watford. McHugh has made only 9 appearances for Bradford City and has scored 1 goal. He has also appeared for Ireland at Under 21 level.

MATT DUKE

CARL McHUGH

Goalkeeper

Defender

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Defender

Ozzie defender Curtis Good after playing football for various sides was made captain of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). His impressive performances monitored by Melbourne of the A-League. This led to a season starring for ‘Heart’ before Newcastle United went calling for his services. With a work permit sourced he signed a six year contract with the ‘Magpies’ in July 2012 and after making a few appearances in their reserve side he has signed for the ‘Bantams’ on loan.

CURTIS GOOD Defender

Jamaican born Hines started his career as a West Ham United youth player. He made 22 appearances for West Ham before signing for Burnley. After a short spell he was released by Burnley, and went on to sign for Bradford. Hines had made 20 appearances for Bradford and has scored 1 goal. Despite being Jamaican born Hines decided to play for England, He has made 2 appearances at Under 21 level scoring 2 goals.

Doyle started out as a Derby County trainee in August 2002. In his four and a half year spell at Pride Park he made only 10 appearances and had loan spells at both Notts County and Bradford where he was Bantams player of the year. He eventually signed for Hull and after his unsuccessful spell at Hull, he signed for Barnsley, He signed for Bradford City in 2012, making 29 Appearances for Bradford scoring twice.

Released by Carlisle United in May 2011 and joined up with the Bantams in the close season. After forcing his way into the starting XI, he has gone on to impress everyone. His first goal came in the closing minutes of a 4-2 demolition at home to Barnet in the August. He has already scored 16 goals this campaign and opened the scoring in the 3-1 Semi Final victory over Aston Villa. Wells also has 6 caps for Bermuda to his name.

ZAVON HINES

NATHAN DOYLE

NAHKI WELLS

English born Reid was another player who started in the West Ham youth team. Reid failed to make a impact and when on loan to a number of English clubs. He eventually signed for Sheffield United and then for Charlton Athletic. In 2011 Reid was handed a two year contract by Bradford manager Phil Parkinson. Reid has played 56 times for Bradford scoring 5 times. He has also represented England in U17, U18 and U19 level.

A product of the Hull City youth programme, Will can play anywhere in the midfield. Loan deals were organised and will found himself at Port Vale, Mansfield, Rochdale, Rotherham, back to Spotland, Plymouth Argyle and then last port of call while on loan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bradford. In May 2012 Atkinson joined the Bantams permanently, very popular player, he has made 39 appearances this term including being an ever present in the Capital One Cup campaign.

Local (Bradford born) lad James played at youth level for Huddersfield and Bradford. He then went into non-league football as a semi-pro with Guiseley where he scored 46 goals in 67 games. Signing his first ever professional contract when he put pen to paper for Bradford in 2009, the transfer fee was set by a tribunal. Hanson has made 137 Appearanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scoring 36 goals. He scored a crucial goal in the Second leg Semi Final game against Aston Villa.

KYEL REID

WILL ATKINSON

JAMES HANSON

Midfield

Forward

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Bradford City

Legends

Four of the best

Cyril was handed his City debut by Jimmy Wheeler in September 1970. Little did he know that he would still be turning out for the side 14 years and six managers later. Podd went on to amass the most League appearances in the clubs history – 502. In all competitions the figure rose to 565. ‘Cec’ as he was known was an international, being capped for Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Known throughout football for his time with Leeds United, the no-nonsense England defender plyed his silky skills to an appreciative Valley Parade in a player/manager capacity for three seasons. His last game in the claret & amber a 2-0 win at home to Bolton that secured the 1985 Third Division title. He then retired to concentrate full time on managing Bradford where he lasted two seasons and 201 games.

Fiercely loyal servant who started as a pro with Bradford (two year youth apprenticeship) where he chalked up just shy of 270 apps in six years before big moves to Everton and Rangers. With medals and a host of Scottish titles and cup medals in his pocket he returned to his beloved City where he enjoyed another four years. After a stint with Sheffield United, Stuart returned to manage at Valley Parade and led them from 2007 – 2010.

CEC PODD

TREVOR CHERRY

STUART McCALL

Right Back

Defender / Manager

Midfielder / Manager

Legend An inside-forward who played his early football in his native Scotland (Maryhill, Rangers and Clyde) before moving down to Bradford City in 1909. They finished 7th in only their second season in the top flight, Speirs played in all 38 league fixtures scoring six goals. The following campaign Bradford were a revelation, finishing 5th with captain Speirs finding the net seven times in only 25 apps. This feat was only overshadowed by Bradford City winning the 1911 FA Cup Final against Newcastle United in a replay, Jimmy Speirs, writing his name into Bradford history by scoring the only goal, he appeared in all but one of the cup-ties in the run to Crystal Palace. In three seasons Speirs made 86 apps and scored 29 times.

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Recent Matches AFC Wimbledon 2-1Bradford City Jack Midson 83 Gary Alexander 90+4

Garry Thompson 59

Gary Alexander headed a dramatic late winner as AFC Wimbledon earned a crucial 2-1 win over Capital One Cup finalists Bradford. In a largely uneventful first half, Wimbledon created the first real chance after 11 minutes when Peter Sweeney blasted the ball over from the edge of the box. Wimbledon's best chance came after 22 minutes when striker Alexander's cross was almost turned into his own net by Bradford's Michael Nelson. Bradford took the lead, when Alan Bennett failed to deal with a ball over the top from Reid, allowing Garry Thompson through to finish well past the on-rushing Neil Sullivan. The Bradford midfielder was then made to pay for his miss in the 83rd minute as sub Jack Midson headed home following a pinpoint cross from the left from Pim Balkestein. And things got even worse for the visitors in stoppage time as Ajala's 93rd-minute corner was headed home by Alexander.

Bradford City 0-1 Gillingham Cody McDonald 64

Second-placed Gillingham recorded their tenth away win of the season with a 1-0 victory at Bradford in League Two on Saturday. The Gills were second best in a first half of few opportunities at Valley Parade. With their Capital One Cup Final against Swansea a fortnight away. James Hanson headed inches over the bar from Kyel Reid's cross and it needed a superb double save from Stuart Nelson to foil Bradford captain Gary Jones and top scorer Nahki Wells. Vastly experienced Deon Burton lobbed the ball over the defence and Cody McDonald fired past the stranded Duke. Bradford's applied late pressure but could not conjure an equaliser.

5-1 1-1 1-1 1-0 2-2

Last Five Games

Played For Both Dudley Price George Murphy Robbie James Sean McCarthy Gary Jones Alan Davies Jason Price Bill Harris Graham Williams Dean Saunders Terry Yorath

Played for both

A journeyman striker (254 career goals + 22 for Wales) who played for both of today’s Capital One Cup finalists. Born in Swansea, he began his career with his hometown club following in his father’s footsteps. His prolific scoring made him a wanted man, Brighton, Derby, Liverpool and Villa all profited before his talents took him to Turkey. On his return he starred for Forest and Sheffield United before teaming up again with Souness at Portugese giants Benfica. His last season playing was in the Premiership with newly promoted Bradford City, where he stayed for two seasons. On retiring he started coaching with Blackburn Rovers who were managed by a certain Graham Souness. Saunders accumulated transfer fees add up to over £10.6 million.

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INTERVIEW | with John Hendrie

Bradford Legend

An Interview with

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with John Hendrie | INTERVIEW

John in his playing days at Bradford

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HISTORY | BRADFORD

26 May 1996, Bradford City 2 Notts County 0

“Well boys you can play either Bury or Manchester City next season – it’s up to you.” Bradford City chairman Geoffrey Richmond

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HISTORY | BRADFORD Having disposed of Blackpool 3-2 on aggregate in the play-off semi-final the Bantams had set up a showdown against Notts County. The Final was to be held at Wembley, May 26th 1996. Since Bradford’s formation in 1903 the club had never played at the world renowned stadium, their famous FA Cup win of 1911 being staged at the Crystal Palace. Notts County on the other hand had played at the venue four times in the last six seasons. For the city and the team of Bradford it was a novelty, no one wanted to miss out, the crowd of 39,972 for the showpiece was predominantly of claret and amber persuasion. Tickets sales from the Bradford area numbered in excess of 28,000. With City chairman Geoffrey Richmond’s “Well boys you can play either Bury or Manchester City next season – it’s up to you.” words of wisdom ringing in their ears, Chris Kamara’s men took to the battlefield. The team selected to do the job; Gould, Huxford, Jacobs, Mitchell, Mohan, Youds, Kiwomya, Duxbury, Shutt, Stallard, Hamilton Subs Ormondroyd, Wright, Tolson

Bradford City settled any nerves they might have had when they got the vital first goal after only eight minutes. Bradford born Des Hamilton had

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League Cup Final 2013 Bradford City v Swansea City WEMBLEY, 24 FEB 2013, 4:00 PM

CUP FINAL MAGAZINE

Brandon Davis Event Times - TM

Last Time At Wembley | SWANSEA

30 May 2011, Reading 2 Swansea City 4

Swansea City had made it to the promised land and in doing so became the first Welsh side to grace the Premier League

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SWANSEA | Last Time At Wembley With Swansea City just missing out on automatic promotion place their only route to the top flight was via the play-offs. With bitter rivals Cardiff City securing fourth place it meant that Swansea would get to play bookies favourites Nottingham Forest who ended the campaign in sixth position. All of Wales wanted to see an all Welsh Wembley final. Unfortunately Cardiff were unable to overcome Reading over the two legged semifinal even though they achieved a 00 draw at the Madejski Stadium. Losing at home 0-3 was a major shock to them and paved the way for Reading to meet Swansea who had beaten Forest 3-1 on aggregate. In the days leading up to the Wembley showdown a leading accountancy firm estimated the game would be worth in excess of £9,000,000 to the victorious side. Swansea hadn’t been in the topflight since the halcyon Toshack days, remembered fondly by ‘Jacks’ when their side defied all odds to lead the First Division albeit briefly. The Swans had the psychological advantage they hadn’t lost to Reading in their previous five encounters. Shouted on by a large contingent from Wales among the near 87,000 crowd Brendan Rodger’s Swansea tried to play their neat, decisive nor-

mal game. No other side had achieved 15 wins at home neither had anyone conceded so fewer goals on home turf, only 11 goals in 23 matches at the Liberty. Reading’s plan was to play long balls up to Shane Long and the striker was unlucky when he bore down on Swans ’keeper de Vries as he attempted a clearance, a close call. Both sides probed and Swansea had more of the ball but just not in the danger area. Karacan saw a speculative shot from the edge of the box deflect wide, out of harms way. Nathan Dyer was taken out in the box by Khizanishvili – penalty. Reading’s No 15 should’ve been sent off, but for reasons known only to Dowd, he stayed on (Dowd did exactly the same last year in the 2010 League Cup Final). Scott Sinclair, cool as you like stroked the ball to the left as Federici dived the wrong way, 1-0 Swansea. In less than a minute Sinclair struck again. Clever work by Dobbie on the flank beat his man and put a perfect cross in that the goalie could only parry. The ball fell straight in the path of Scott Sinclair who made no mistake. Reading had been the better side in the early stages, how would they come back from this? A succession of corners for Reading but to no avail. Swansea made it 3-0. Khizanishvili must’ve wished he was back in the dressing room, he had time to clear Dyer’s cross but instead of putting it in row Z he merely stroked the ball out straight to Dobbie. Bang, thank

you very much! Shane Long missed a glorious chance with the goal at his mercy the ball bounced off his ankle before he could strike it. At half time in the tunnel Dowd brandished red cards to Reading’s assistant manager and sub Jay Tabb. Joe Allen gave the Royals hope, when he deflected a Hunt header, four minutes into the second half. 31. A dozen minutes later and from another corner, Reading’s unmarked skipper Mills had a free header, into the roof of the net. Swansea’s lead had been cut, now it was 3-2. Reading were a lick of paint from finding the equaliser - that looked so unlikely at half-time - when their midfielder Jem Karacan’s shot was deflected onto the post. Scott Sinclair sealed it with 10 minutes to go when he converted his second penalty (hat-trick in the process) after Borini was barged to the ground by Griffin. Swansea’s 4-2 lead remained in tact in the closing stages. Swansea City had made it to the promised land and in doing so became the first Welsh side to grace the Premier League. The side to face Reading; De Vries, Rangel, Monk, Williams, Tate, Britton, Allen, Dyer, Dobbie, Sinclair, Borini Subs; Makabu-Makalambay, Serran, Pratley, Gower, Richards, Beattie, Moore

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Best current Swansea player? Because it’s a team unit it’s a little bit unfair to single somebody out. Obviously there’s history there in terms of Leon Britton, he’s been there when the club were down in the Fourth Division. He’s been away and come back and is successful. A lot of passes go through him and that must

INTERVIEW | Dai Davies

make him a contender. But then both goalkeepers have had a great season and how about the centre-forward? I don’t think ther’s a definitive answer.

Are you still involved with football? Nowadays only commentating on football through the medium of Welsh for a company called Sgorio. I still watch and observe games because I have to keep my own credibility. People will ask my opinion on matches, and in order to have one I need to watch football. Lastly what is your fondest memory of your time with Swansea (Town) City? Again it’s a difficult question. As a 16-year-old I would be released from my school every Tuesday morning to go down to Swansea Town to play in the first team v reserves practise match against players of the calibre of Ivor Allchurch. I recall playing for Swansea when Roy Bentley was the manager and he was a prolific goalscorer. He would give me tips on how to read people as they were actually lining up to have a shot on goal, so working with Roy was a wonderful experience.

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Dai

Davies

Dai Davies | INTERVIEW

The Cup Final Magazine talks to Wales and Swansea legend about his memories of a player and the Swansea team today.

Dai Davies became a professional footballer in 1969 with Swansea Town (they became City the following year). Dai made 9 appearances before attracting scouts from First Division Champions Everton. He stayed at Goodison Park for seven years though he had a short loan spell back at Swansea during 1974. Davies moved back to his native Wales in 1977 where he helped Wrexham to the Division 3 title in 1977/78 and made nearly 150 appearances for them before moving on to Swansea City. During his spell under Toshack at the Vetch Field Dai won the last of his 52 Welsh caps. He remains to this day the second most capped goalkeeper in Welsh history, his tally surpassed only by Neville Southall. After a spell at Tranmere as a player/coach Davies retired before returning briefly to play with Bangor and Wrexham.He now works in the media and runs a natural healing centre based in Llangollen, specialising in pilates.

been playing this system now for five or six years. The chairman has to take credit in this, they haven’t spent millions and put the club into debt.

What thoughts do you have regarding the Final? It almost feels that Bradford’s name is on the cup, but the Final is certainly not dead and buried, it’s wide open. Bradford’s strengths are from set pieces and if anything that’s what Swansea’s weakness’ are! There aren’t that many trophies to be won so it’s pretty nice that different teams can now be involved and to be seen. Swansea haven’t been to Wembley in a major competition, that in itself is great.

They’ve all done extremely well and it hasn’t been a flash in the pan.

What do you think of Swansea’s cup run and beating Liverpool and Chelsea in the process? I think Martinez will be credited with the way they play because they keep possession. Sousa came in and then Rodgers and now Laudrup so you’ve got that continuity of managers who want to keep the ball. They’ve all done extremely well and it hasn’t been a flash in the pan, and it is a steady progression. There’s usually a second season syndrome where clubs are found out but that hasn’t happened with Swansea. People should compliment them because they have

Best match in the cup run? Probably the Chelsea game, they went into it as European Champions. The first leg was away and it needed a solid defensive performance. Swansea were a little fortunate when Ivanovic made two howlers which gave Swansea a little bit of a cushion for the home game. The tie wasn’t dead and buried because we know how good Chelsea are. But Swansea were able to hold on to a 0-0 draw at home and I suspect because of the nervousness within semi-finals that can go either way. The Chelsea match must rank as quite an achievement.

Best goal in the cup run? A.. I think they are all good goals. Because it’s the cup if you don’t win you’re straight out. Any goal is worthwhile even if it goes in off the knee.

What do you think of the current squad?

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Recent Matches Liverpool 5 - 0 Swansea

The Swans suffered their heaviest defeat in the Barclays Premier League as Liverpool ran riot at Anfield. Steven Gerrard got the scoring started when he tucked home a penalty in the 34th minute after referee Howard Webb awarded the spot-kick on the advice of his assistant after Kemy Agustien challenged Luis Suarez. The Reds could have extended their lead before the break, but they took full advantage in the second half. Just 14 seconds after the restart, Philippe coutinho scored his first Liverpool goal before Jose Enrique notched another four minutes later. Luis Suarez made it 4-0 as the Swans couldn't cope with the constant home pressure, and then Daniel Sturridge finished off the scoring - another penalty given on the advice of the assistant - to complete a miserable afternoon in Merseyside for the Jack Army. The Reds, beaten on home soil by the Swans in the Capital One Cup last October, handed recent signing Philippe Coutinho his first start in midfield.

Swansea City 4-1 QPR

Michu (8)(67) Rangel (18) Hernandez (50) The Swans returned to winning ways in the Barclays Premier League as a Michu brace helped pave the way to a resounding 4-1 win over bottom club QPR at the Liberty. The one sour note of the afternoon, though, came when Chico Flores was stretchered off with an ankle injury after 34 minutes, with supporters hoping news of his setback won't affect his Michu moved onto 18 goals in just 32 games - 15 in the top flight - since arriving from Rayo Vallecano in the summerchances of making the final.

5-1 1-1 1-1 1-0 2-2

Last Five Games

Played For Both Dudley Price George Murphy Robbie James Sean McCarthy Gary Jones Alan Davies Jason Price Bill Harris Graham Williams Dean Saunders

Played for both

A midfield player who not only played for both Bradford and Swansea, he managed both sides also. In a career played mostly at top level (Leeds, Coventry and Spurs) Terry represented Wales in three different decades. Towards the end of an illustrious career he left Valley Parade where as player/coach he sustained an injury in the horrendous Bradford fire of 1985. Taking up the managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role at the Vetch Field, Yorath made one app for the Swans. After three years in charge he left to take the reins at Bradford City whilst also managing the Welsh national side part-time. Later roles would see him manage Cardiff, Sheff Wed, Margate and a spell in the Lebanon.

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Swansea City AFC The Squad

Four of the best

WILFRED MILNE

JEREMY CHARLES

LEIGHTON PHILLIPS

Wilfred Milne was born in 1899 in Hebburn-on-Tyne. After being spotted playing for his local side Walker Celtic, Swansea Town stepped in to sign young full-back Wilf. The transfer fee, a cup of tea and a fish and chip supper (the recipient unknown). What a steal, Milne played his entire career which spanned 17 years for Town. Milne’s record of 586 League appearances is a record that stands to this day.

Followed in his father’s (Mel) footsteps when he signed for home town Swansea in 1976. His uncle John was also on Swansea’s groundstaff but never played first-team football. The strapping 6’ plus centre-forward was a key member of the Swans team of the1980’s and his 53 goals in 247 appearances were instrumental in the Welsh side climbing from the fourth to first tier of English football in only five seasons.

A very classy and underrated defender. Phillips was born in Neath in 1949. A Welsh schoolboy internationl who worked his way through the ranks at Cardiff City where he stayed until 1974. After four years at Aston Villa he returned to south Wales to sign for Swansea. The £70,000 fee paid in November 1978 to aquire his services meant Leighton became the club’s record transfer signing. Won promotion to the Second Division in his first season at the Vetch. Capped 58 for Wales.

Defender

Forward

Defender

Legend The Allchurch name on the Swansea teamsheet spread fear in defenders the length and breadth of the country for over a decade, whether it was older brother Ivor or winger Len. Signed on in 1947 he didn’t debut for Town until the 1950/61 season due to National Service. Ivor remains Swansea’s most capped player, with 42 of his 68 Welsh caps coming in his time at the Vetch. His total of 691 league games spread over a career that took in Swansea, Newcastle, Cardiff and a second spell at the Swans realised a staggering 249 goals as well as 23 whilst on international duty, which was only bettered by Ian Rush. His performance in the 1958 World Cup helped Wales to the quarter-final stage, the country’s only appearance in the tournament finals.

IVOR ALLCHURCH, MBE Forward 16 | CUP FINAL MAGAZINE | WWW.EVENTTIMES.CO.UK

Pablo Hernandez

Ben Davies

In 2012 Spanish born Hernandez singed for Swansea for a club record of £5.55 million. He had currently played for Spanish side Valencia, where he made 110 appearances scoring 16 goals. Hernandez scored his first premier league goal in a 2-1 win against Wigan Athletic. Hernandez appeared 18 times for Swansea scoring 3 goals; he has also made 4 appearances for the Spanish international team and has scored 1 goal.

Nineteen year old Ben Davies started his career as a youth player for Swansea. In 2012 he signed a 2 year contract with Swansea City. Davies became a regular to the Swansea team after replacing Neil Taylor who has a long-term injury. Davies became Swansea’s youngest goal scorer after scoring against Stoke City in 2013. Davies also replaced Taylor as left back for Wales’s national team. He has made 3 appearances for the Welsh team and has been selected to play in the 2014 World cup qualifiers.

Defender

Midfield

Nathan Dyer

Ki Sung-Yueng

Former Southampton man Nathan Dyer joined Swansea City on loan in 2009. Dyer impressed throughout his loan spell in which he scored two goals. Dyer signed for Swansea on a permanent basis for a sum of £400,000. Dyer played an important part in Swansea’s promotion as he had a double assist in the Football league play off final. Dyer has made 145 appearances for Swansea scoring 12 goals.

Ki Sung-Yueng joined Swansea city from Celtic in 2012. Yueng attracted the attention of Swansea after fine performances for Celtic. He played 66 times for Celtic and scored 9 goals. Yueng made his debut for the Swans in a 3-1 victory against Barnsley in the Capital one Cup. Yueng has made 22 appearances for Swansea but is yet to score a goal. He has played for South Korea’s U 17, U 20 and U 23 team before making his senior team debut. He has played over 50 games for South Korea and has scored 5 goals.

Midfield

Midfield De Guzman is currently on loan from Spanish club Villarreal. He has previously played for Feyenoord and Mallorca. De Guzman was born in Canada but gained Dutch citizenship in 2008. De Guzman was reunited with former coach Michael Laudrup when he joined Swansea on loan. He scored his first goal in a 3-1 Victory over Liverpool in the Capital One Cup. De Guzman has made 25 appearances for Swansea and has scored 5 goals.

Jonathan de Guzman Midfield

English born Routledge has played for a number of English clubs including Crystal Palace, Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers. Routledge failed to find a starting place for these clubs and usually found himself being loaned out to other clubs. Routledge singed for Swansea City in 2012, scoring his first goal in a 0-2 victory over former club Aston Villa. Routledge has scored 6 goals and made 52 appearances for Swansea City.

Wayne Routledge Midfield

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Swansea City AFC The Squad

The Heartbeat One to Watch On 20 July 2012 Michu signed a three-year contract with Premier League side Swansea City, for a fee of £2 million. Following the departure of Gylfi Sigurdsson, the club was looking for someone to fill the gap behind the striker in their 4–2–3–1 formation; however, he was given the number 9 shirt upon his transfer, and this saw him in coming games playing as a striker. On his league debut on 18 August, Michu scored twice and provided an assist for Scott Sinclair in a 5–0 away win against Queens Park Rangers. The first of his goals was also the first scored in the new top flight season, and he later described his debut as "incredible". Michu stayed atop the goalscoring charts by netting the second in a 3–0 home defeat of West Ham United on 25 August, and the second in the 2–2 draw against Sunderland the following matchday. He scored a late double against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on 1 December (2–0 win), sending Swansea to seventh in the table. On 6 January 2013 Michu scored his first FA Cup goal, coming off the bench in an eventual 2–2 home draw against Arsenal for the third round and finding the net a mere 73 seconds after entering the pitch. He followed this with another in his team's 2–0 win at Chelsea in the semi-finals of the Football League Cup. On 23 January 2013, Michu signed a new four-year contract with Swansea. On 22 December 2012, courtesy of his performances with Swansea, Vicente del Bosque said that Michu would play for Spain for the first time in a friendly with Uruguay

Michu Striker

Chico

Michel Vorm

Jose Manuel Flores “Chico” joined Swansea in July 2012. He signed from Genoa however he was playing on loan for Spanish team Mallorca, where current manager Michael Laudrup managed at the time. Laudrup signed Chico for a fee of 2 million pound. Chico has played 19 games for Swansea and placed himself firm in Swansea’s starting 11. Chico has also played 3 games for the Spanish Under 21 team.

Michel Vorm began his Career at Dutch side FC Utrecht where he made 136 appearances scoring one goal. He was sign by Swansea in 2011 for a free believed to be around 1.5 million. Vorm has made 52 appearances for Swansea playing a key part in Swansea side and is regarding as one of the best goalkeepers in the premier league. An injury against Manchester City saw Vorm sidelined for 8 weeks. Vorm has also made 9 appearances for the Netherlands international side.

Goalkeeper

Defender

Angel Rangel

Ashley Williams

Spanish born Rangel joined Swansea in 2007, having played for Girona, Sant Andreu and Terrassa. Rangel has made 218 appearances for Swansea scoring 7 goals. He played a huge part in Swansea’s push for premier league football. 2008 saw Rangel named in the PFA League One Team of the Year. In 2011 Rangel was named Premier League Defender of the year. Rangel has not played an International game as he was ruled ineligible to play for Wales.

Ashley Williams played 162 games for Stockport country before joining Swansea on loan in 2008. Williams impressed and went on to sign a permanent deal worth around £400,000. Williams has also played 39 games for the Welsh International team. In 2009 Williams was named “Wales Footballer of the Year”, “Clubman of the year” and was also selected in the Championship PFA team of the year. Williams has played 203 games for Swansea scoring 11 goals, he has been rewarded by being named captain of Swansea FC.

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Defender

Form Guide

Swansea City AFC Since Michael Laudrup’s took the reins in June 2012 the Swansea board have backed their manager with big money. Hernandez, Sung-Yeung, Michu and centre-backs Chico and Bartley have all arrived at the Liberty. A statement of intent that Swansea want to emulate or better their solid mid-table position of the previous year. The team’s start was of fairytale proportions – an away win is superb but 5-0 at QPR, on the opening day, come on! Follow that up with a 3-0 win at home to West Ham and what the team can achieve is anyone’s guess. A dozen games into the season after a fine 2-1 win at Newcastle, Swansea were sitting comfortably in 10th position having won four and lost the same. By January the league tables settle somewhat and people can gauge how

their team are faring. At this point the Swans were up to eighth with seven wins on the board and had reached the semi-finals of a major cup. Michu has exceeded all expectation’s so far and his goal prowess has meant the club let Danny Graham without missing him. Under their new manager Swansea continue to play the football that Martinez started, they are quick, clinical are comfortable on the ball and pose threats to the biggest of the sides as seen in their phenomenal cup run.

Chairman: Huw Jenkins Manager: Michael Laudrup League: Premier League Captain: Garry Monk Year Formed: 1912 (as Swansea Town) Ground: Liberty Stadium, Capacity: 20,750 Team Colours: Black and White Nickname: The Swans

FACTFILE League English second tier (currently Football League Championship)

Promoted (1): 1980–81 Play-off winners (1): 2010–11 English third tier (currently Football League One)

Winners (3): 1924–25, 1948–49, 2007–08 Promoted (1): 1978–79 English fourth tier

(currently Football League Two)

Winners (1): 1999–2000 Promoted (3): 1969–70, 1977–78, 2004–05 Play-off winners (1): 1987–88 Division Three (North) Winners (1): 1928–29 Cups FA Cup Semi-finalists (2): 1925–26, 1963–64 Football League Trophy Winners (2): 1993–94, 2005–06 Welsh Cup Winners (10): 1912–13, 1931–32, 1949– 50, 1960–61, 1965–66, 1980–81, 1981– 82, 1982–83, 1988–89, 1990–91

HONOURS

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THE MANAGER

Whoever said great players don’t make great managers has obviously never met the Great Dane!

audrup, the name is known throughout the world of football, whether it’s Michael or younger brother Brian. Michael the one in question, made his club debut for East Hull Rangers the same year he represented the Danish U-19’s. The year was 1981, and it was the start of a wonderful career. The following year Michael went to play for the team his father had recently left – Brondby, where he scored twice on his debut. His 15 goals that season earned him the Danish Player of the Year award but equally importantly he was being watched by some of Europe’s most glamorous sides. Serie A giants and current Italian champions Juve came calling along with Liverpool. Michael was set to sign a three-year deal for the English side but they insisted on a four-year contract at the last minute. Laudrup didn’t want to be held to their terms and went to Turin. Juve took him on but with having Boniek and Platini and being unable to field three foreigners Michael spent two seasons with Lazio. Laudrup broke into the Juventus side in 1985 and won a Serie a title

In 1989 Johan Cruyff took Laudrup to Barca where he structured the team around his new Danish import, Koeman and Stoichkov. In his time with the dream team Michael won four consecutive La Liga titles as well as the 1992 European Cup Final and on twice voted the best player in Spain. By 1994 the relationship between player and manager had soured somewhat and Laudrup joined bitter rivals Real Madrid. Another La Liga title was bagged by the Dane – his fifth in a row. After a brief sojourn with Japanese outfit Vissel Kobe Laudrup ended his playing career in 1988 with Dutch masters Ajax. In his time in Holland he picked up another Champions medal. He had now achieved titles in three different leagues. At 36-years-of age took on the role of assistant manager to the Danish national team. Along with his boss Morten Olsen, Denmark made the knock out stage of the 2002 World Cup. After the tournament Laudrup took on a managerial role in his own right. Brondby was the fortunate team and he set about implementing his own system as well as youngsters who had the ability to

carry off his ideals. He won the Danish Cup in his first season and after being Danish Superliga runners up twice he finally achieved his goal - the double in 2005. The following season Brondby could only finish runners-up, the club’s hierarchy and Laudrup couldn’t come to an agreement over contractual differences and Laudrup left. Next port of call was La Liga’s Getafe where he stayed for one season. They reached Final of the Copa del Rey and played football in the same fashion as Laudrup had as a player. After a brief spell in Russia managing Spartak Moscow and a short time in Spain where he managed to keep RCD Mallorca from relegation, Michaels next post would bring him to England finally. He took on the post vacated by Brendan Rodgers and was instilled as Swansea manager in June 2012. His brand of football is exciting, decisive and successful - a bit like his playing career. Whoever said great players don’t make great managers has obviously never met the Great Dane!

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The Road To Wembley | SWANSEA

The dramatic and unforgettable scenes that greeted the final whistle will be remembered with pride and talked about for many years WWW.EVENTTIMES.CO.UK | CUP FINAL MAGAZINE | 11

SWANSEA | The Road To Wembley

bought Luke Moore on in place of Shechter. Boro were fortunate not to go a goal down when a de Guzman free-kick had the better of ’keeper Steele, but the ball struck the crossbar.

Ki coming into the fray added a bit more bite to Swansea and their dominance of the game was steadily rising and starting to tell as the visitors started to look jaded. It took an own goal from the head of Middlesbrough defender Seb Hines, who was under pressure from Garry Monk, with only nine minutes remaining to hopefully seal a famous victory for Laudrup’s Swans. The Championship side went looking for a way back into the tie and very nearly succeeded when a Miller cross fizzed across the face of the goal, it only needed a toe to poke it over the line. Swansea City had a Capital One Cup semi-final date to pencil in to their fixture list.

Line up Tremmel, Tiendalli, Chico, Monk, Davies, Dyer, Britton, de Guzman, Shechter (Moore), Routledge (Ki), Michu Unused subs; Cornell, Bartley, Graham, Rangel, Agustien SEMI-FINALS

CHELSEA 0 SWANSEA CITY 2 Michu 39 Graham 90+2

Not many people outside of Swansea would have given Laudrup’s team a hope of taking anything out of this first leg semi-final.

Fortunately for the visitors, the home side, those of slick passing, lightning raids and a razor sharp forward line, simply failed to turn up. Swansea sensed this, and not overawed by the occasion they raised their game and took the match to Chelsea.

Fernando Torres who on his day is unplayable took his two real chances as though he was wrapping up a training session. His shot from distance and his header were half-

hearted and lacked conviction.

Michu put the Swans ahead scoring his 16th of the season just before the interval. It was nothing less than the visitors deserved.

Chelsea started the second half much the same way as they had played out the first period, they kept the ball for long periods but just failed to do anything with it. The Chelsea fans weren’t impressed and spent the evening calling for the head of their unwanted boss Benitez. With the home side looking unlikely to score it was looking more like Swansea would have a crucial away goal and slender lead to take back to the Liberty. New signing Ba had the ball in the net, raising Chelsea hopes albeit briefly but his effort was ruled out for off-side.

Deep into time added on and Danny Graham made the tie on the evening safe when he doubled the vistors lead. The away fans in their wildest dreams couldn’t have hoped for a result like this. Would a 2-0 scorline be sufficient to take Swansea to Wembley or would Chelsea turn up at what was ultimately half-time. Line up; Tremmel, Rangel, Chico, Williams, Davies, Britton, de Guzman, Ki, Routledge (Tiendalli), Hernandez, Michu (Graham) Unused subs; Vorm, Dyer, Monk, Shechter, Agustien SEMI-FINALS

SWANSEA CITY 0 CHELSEA 0

Swansea won 2-0 on aggregate

Swansea City are Wembley bound. They have secured a place in their first major cup final after the 0-0 stalemate at the Liberty Stadium was sufficient to take the Swans through 2-0 on aggregate following their phenomenal away win at European Champions – Chelsea. The atmosphere in the ground was

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simply electric and rose to even greater heights when the teams emerged to take to the pitch.

Both teams went looking for the early goal with Cech keeping his side in the tie momentarily when he saved from Michu. At the other end it took decisive action from Leon Britton to clear a Gary Cahill goalbound effort.

The football was at times fast and frantic, but there was a lot at stake. Tremmel pulled off an outstanding save when the smart money would have been on predator Juan Mata to score.

Swansea weren’t without chances to wrap the tie up for themselves when both Nathan Dyer and Ki Sung Yueng went close late on in the match. The only downside of the evening was that Swansea’s finest hour will be remembered in some quarters by the actions of one of their ballboys who was intent on making a name for himself. Refusing to hand it back the lad proceeded to liedown on the ball, Hazard toe-poked the ball from under him though in fairness and from a distance it looked like he had intentionally kicked the ballboy. Referee Foy responded by brandishing a red card. Time was against the London side, there was no way back for Chelsea now. The rest of the game was played out going through the motions, Swansea had done the spade work at Stamford Bridge.

The dramatic and unforgettable scenes that greeted the final whistle will be remembered with pride and talked about for many years down in Swansea, and rightly so. Michael Laudrup who only came in during the close season inherited a very good, competent side and has made it even better. Line up; Tremmel, Rangel, Chico, Williams, Davies, Britton, de Guzman, Ki, Hernandez, Michu, Routledge (Dyer) Unused subs; Vorm, Graham, Lamah, Monk, Shechter, Tiendalli,

The Road To Wembley | SWANSEA

The Swansea supporters numbering 3,200 sang loud and long at the final whistle. to turn the tie around. As Liverpool went searching for the equaliser but to no avail, Swansea made the game safe when Michu turned provider for de Guzman to hit Swansea’s third of the evening..

The Swansea supporters numbering 3,200 sang loud and long at the final whistle. The last time their team had achieved a victory at Anfield was way back in1964 in the FA Cup and in those days Swansea were known as Town not City. Their side’s reward was a place in the last eight. They had never been this far and now Championship outfit Middlesbrough awaited them in the quarter-finals.

northeast were partly responsible. Line up; Tremmel, Chico (Monk), Richards, Williams, Tiendalli, Hernandez (Routledge), Britton, Ki, Dyer, de Guzman, Michu Unused subs; Cornell, Graham, Shechter, Agustien, Davies QUARTER-FINALS

SWANSEA CITY 1 MIDDLESBROUGH 0 Hines own goal

The Liberty Stadium with only 15,000 supporters was only three quarters full though Middlesbrough bringing only 700 down from the

Neither Swansea or Boro looked particularly hungry for a result during the first-half, bearing in mind a semifinal place (and only 180 minutes away from Wembley) was up for grabs. Both teams were content to sit back and soak up what little pressure materialised. Swansea tried several times to get their slick passing into gear but they couldn’t penetrate the Boro rearguard. The home side were the more adventurous after the break and boss Laudrup changed things round early in the second period when he

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SWANSEA | The Road To Wembley

Former Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers now trying to restore Liverpool from outside the box.

FOURTH ROUND

LIVERPOOL 1

New Spanish signing Miguel Perez Cuesta (commonly known as Michu) SWANSEA CITY 3 put the Swans ahead after clever in- Chico 34 Dyer 72 de Guzman,90+4 teraction between Ki and Gower Former Swansea boss Brendan after Tiendalli had gained possesRodgers now trying to restore Liversion. The ball was played out to pool back to a trophy winning side Routledge whose pin point cross was lethally executed by Michu who must have been somewhat anxious as he faced a vibrant, attack minded could be the signing of the season. Swansea side who sat higher in the table than his Merseyside Reds. In The visitors looked comfortable but fact Liverpool had only won one of just as the half-time interval was their first five home fixtures, tasting looming Crawley snatched a fortudefeat twice already. nate equaliser when a shot from Simpson took a wicked deflection and passed Tremmel. The teams left Laudrup was forced into making changes from the side that were the field all square. narrowly defeated at Champions Man City. Vorm was injured and Angel Rangel was suspended.

Michu who had now scored four goals this campaign was subbed just before the hour mark. Barely two minutes later and the hosts had unexpectedly taken the lead. Crawley’s Hope Akpan turned left-back Ben Davies in the box and fired a low shot into the net giving Tremmel no chance.

Swansea pushed forward looking to level the tie and nearly conceded when Crawley hit them on the counter, the ’keeper pulling off a fine save. The visitors pressure paid off when Danny Graham levelled the score at 2-2 when he got his head onto a cross to the far post.

With time almost up and extra-time beckoning Swansea’s Routledge floated over a corner kick and the ‘Jacks’ captain Monk who had returned from a back injury reacted first and headed into the net. Swansea had left it late but they progressed into the next round.

Line up; Tremmel, Davies, Ki, Monk, Tiendalli, Britton, Gower, Michu (Donnelly), Routledge, Moore, Richards (Graham) Unused subs; Cornell, Tate, Situ, Lucas, Alfei

Both sides were testing and probing without inflicting any real damage. Ki went close with a drive which was turned round the post and from the resulting de Guzman’s corner Chico Flores set the visitors on the way in the 34th minute when he headed home, his first goal since signing from Mallorca where he was on loan from Genoa and working under a certain Michael Laudrup. The Welsh side held their 1-0 advantage at halftime The visitors had numerous chances to add further goals and Jones was kept the busier of the two goalkeepers. Swansea increased their lead when Nathan Dyer collected a fine pass from another Spanish import – Pablo Hernandez and had the simple job of tapping the ball in to Brad Jones net.

Rodgers had sensed trouble and sent on Gerrard and Suarez after the interval and it was the home side who started more promisingly. Suarez pulled a goal back for the home side only four minutes after Swansea had doubled their lead when he latched onto Gerrard’s free-kick., they now had 15 minutes

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The Road To Wembley | SWANSEA

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WEMBLEY TH E RO AD TO

SWANSEA | The Road To Wembley

After Early victories over Barnsley and Crawley, Swans fans could be excused for thinking the end of the trail had arrived. Anfield wasn’t a happy place for the Welsh side – normally…At least it wouldn’t get any harder! SECOND ROUND

SWANSEA CITY 3 BARNSLEY 1

Graham 24 Moore 59, 88

Swansea City faced Barnsley in the Capital One Cup having emphatically won their first two opening Premier League matches , QPR away 5-0 and home to West Ham 3-0. Barnsley on the other hand had taken a heavy 1-5 defeat at Brighton just three days before. New boss Michael Laudrup made sweeping changes to the side that had lined up for their league fixture four days earlier and gave record signing Ki Sung-Yeung his first start.

Mirrored elsewhere around the country the small crowd of just 9,025 for this cup-tie was less than half of that for the club’s average league fixture. This figure wasn’t helped by Barnsley bringing only 48 fans. Danny Graham opened the scoring in the 24th minute when he chested the ball over the line from a yard out. Swansea were unlucky not to add to their goal tally when a Graham effort was blocked and then a reaction save from Alnwick denied Nathan Dyer. Tremmel also reacted well at the other end when

called upon. The score remained 1-0 at the interval.

The second period was unproductive and ten minutes in Laudrup made a double substitution. Jazz Richards introduction paid immediate dividends, he beat his man with ease before crossing to allow Luke Moore who had assisted for the opening goal to control before turning smartly and finding the top corner of the net to get his name on the scoresheet on the hour mark. Barnsley to the delight of their contingent pulled a goal back through Hassell and should have levelled the match when Hassell struck the woodwork.

of his goal to deny him the equaliser.

Luke Moore put the game beyond doubt when he scored his second of the night with only two minutes of normal time remaining after sterling work by substitute Mark Gower. Line up; Tremmel, Bartley, Davies, Rangel (Dobbie), Tate, de Guzman, Ki (Gower), Agustien, Moore, Graham (Richards) Unused subs; Vorm, Michu, Lita, Williams THIRD ROUND

CRAWLEY TOWN 2 SWANSEA CITY 3

Michu 27 Graham 74 Monk 90+2

Programme from Barnsley game

In another attack ‘Tykes’ Chris Dagnall dispossessed Swansea’s other debutant Kyle Bartley but the ever-alert Tremmel raced out

Swansea manager Laudrup made wholesale changes to the team that faced Everton at the weekend. Defender Dwight Tiendalli a recent signing from FC Twente was handed his debut and members of Swansea’s Under-21 squad were drafted into the squad. Supported by nearly 950 fans the visitors made the early play though it took until the quarter of an hour mark before the first real chance fell, Moore firing over

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Swansea’s Last Visit to Wembley p20

The Road To Wembley p6

The Team

p13

Interview with Dai Davies p20

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Contents

Features

6 | The Road To Wembley Take a look at the long and successful cup run, with beating three premiership sides to reach the final.

12 | The Manager

We look at the man that has guided Swansea to Wembley, manager Michael Laudrup.

13 | The Team

Take a look at the team that has reached the final and some of Swansea all time greats.

18 | Interview With John Hendrie

We talk to one of Swansea legend and greats Dai Davies, about the Swansea team and City’s Visit to Wembley

20 | Last Visit To Wembley

We look at Swansea last visit to Wembley under th en man ager Brendan Rogers, in th e 199 6 play-off final, lea ving winner s and bei ng pr omo ted

Dai

Davies

Dai Davies | INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW | Dai Davies

The Cup Final Magazine talks to Wales and Swansea legend, about his memories of a player and the Swansea team today

been playing this system now for five or six years. The chairman has to take credit in this, they haven’t spent millions and put the club into debt.

They’ve all done extremely well and it hasn’t been a flash in the pan

Best goal in the cup run? A.. I think they are all good goals. Because it’s the cup if you don’t win you’re straight out. Any goal is worthwhile even if it goes in off the knee. What do you think of the current squad?

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When de Vries was sold and Vorm came from Holland, people were asking why Swansea had sold their best player. The club has maintained it’s quality of keepers with Vorm and Tremmel and you need a good goalkeeper for a team to be successful. Ashley Williams has improved and has become a Welsh international, he’s probably the most consistent Welsh player over the years. We’ve had good forwards at the club, Graham did well but now we have Michu, so there’s a solid spine down the middle, keeper, centre-half and centre-forward but you’ve also got the midfield and full-backs who also want the ball. They’ve also imported a good nucleus of players in from abroad without having to pay millions. Alan Curtis being there has maintained a local interest. Best current Swansea player? Because it’s a team unit it’s a little bit unfair to single somebody out. Obviously there’s history there in terms of Leon Britton, he’s been there when the club were down in the Fourth Division. He’s been away and come back and is successful. A lot of passes go through him and that must

make him a contender. But then both goalkeepers have had a great season and how about the centre-forward? I don’t think ther’s a definitive answer.

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Last Time At Wembley | SWANSEA

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30 May 2011, Reading 2 Swansea City 4

Swansea City had made it to the promised land and in doing so became the first Welsh side to grace the Premier League

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CUP FINAL MAGAZINE

Brandon Davis Event Times - TM

Publisher Brandon Davis Editor Peter Brennan Designer Peter Brennan

Welcome Welcome to this unique magazine to commemorative the 2013 Capital One Cup Final at Wembley. Now in it’s 53rd year the League Cup in it’s various guises has been won by only 22 different clubs. Regardless of the result a new team will have it’s name adorned on the famous trophy today, whether it’s your side or Bradford City. It has the makings of being a classic cup-tie, both sides are more than capable of scoring goals and when you look at the run your side embarked on to reach this stage you should rightly feel that winning is within your grasp. How many teams can claim to have knocked out the reigning European Champions? Bradford cannot be taken lightly. Their journey to Wembley is one that may never be repeated by a club from the fourth-tier. Not only has it made front-page news here but around the world. Finally it is a great occasion for you – the fans. With neither yourself nor Bradford having been to Wembley to play in a major final it’s a very special occasion for both sets of supporters. Make the most of your day and may the best team win. Good luck Swansea. Brandon Davis, The Event Times

THE BRANDON DAVIS EVENT TIMES CUP FINAL MAGAZINE IS AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED PUBLICATION.IT HAS NO CONNECTION WITH THE FA , WEMBLEY STADIUM LTD, ANY FOOTBALL CLUB OR ANY OTHER BODY.THIS PUBLICATION IS REGISTERED WITH THE UK GOVERNMENT AS A PERIODICAL NEWSPAPER - REGISTRATION NUMBER N5682 - THIS PUBLICATION IS PERIODICALLY PUBLISHED MORE FREQUENTLY THAN EVERY 26 DAYS -THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION IS THE 21ST FEBRUARY 2013 - THE DATE OF THE NEXT PUBLICATION IS THE 28 TH FEBRUARY 2013 - CONTACT INFO@EVENTTIMES.CO.UK FOR FURTHER PUBLICATION DATES / SCHEDULES.

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Features

The Road To Wembley

The Team

Interview With Dai Davies Last Visit To Wembley