God, this one hurts. Just got the news about Peter McParland and I had to take a moment before even writing this. The last surviving hero from Villa's 1957 FA Cup triumph has left us. Ninety-one years old. Just celebrated his birthday too.
I remember my grandad talking about McParland like he was some kind of mythical figure. "That left foot could open a tin can from 30 yards," he'd say. Now they're both gone.
The Man Who Broke United's Hearts (And Made Villa's Dreams Come True)
For those too young to remember (which, let's be honest, is most of us), McParland was teh guy who scored BOTH goals in that famous 2-1 win against Manchester United. Last time we lifted the FA Cup. Imagine that - a single player responsible for such a historic moment.
Villa were massive underdogs that day. Nobody gave them a prayer against the mighty United. But McParland didn't care about the odds.
I actually met an old United supporter last year who still grimaced when I mentioned McParland's name. "That Northern Irishman broke my heart that day," he told me over a pint. "Never forgave him, but bloody hell, what a player."
More Than Just Those Two Goals
Listen. McParland wasn't a one-hit wonder. Over ten years at Villa Park, he banged in 121 goals in 341 appearances. Numbers that modern forwards would kill for.
And here's something that'll win you a pub quiz someday - he was the first footballer EVER to score in both major domestic knockout cup finals. That dramatic extra-time winner against Rotherham in '61 secured the League Cup. History maker.
Northern Ireland loved him just as much as the Villa faithful. He scored 5 goals at the 1958 World Cup as they reached the quarter-finals. Still holds the record as Northern Ireland's highest World Cup scorer.
From Newry to Immortality
Born in April 1934 in Newry, Northern Ireland, McParland's journey to Villa Park came via Dundalk. George Martin (the manager, not the Beatles producer!) signed him, and he made his debut against Wolves in September 1952.
By 19, he was already an international, scoring twice on his debut against Wales.
What strikes me about players from that era is how versatile they were. McParland could play left wing or center-forward with equal effectiveness. Powerful in the air, lethal with his left foot. They don't make 'em like that anymore.
When $35,000 Was a Serious Transfer Fee
After nearly a decade of service, McParland moved to Wolves in January 1962 for £35,000. Imagine that. These days that might cover a Premier League player's weekend bar tab.
His career also took him to Plymouth, Worcester City, Glentoran, and even across the pond to Canada and the USA. Footballers back then had to hustle for a living after their playing days. No million-pound punditry gigs waiting for them.
I saw McParland at Villa Park back in 2018. Still had that twinkle in his eye. Still remembered every detail of those goals against United. "The first one," he told me, "I knew it was in the moment it left my foot."
The Last Man Standing
It's strange and sad to think about. Every team photo eventually becomes a memorial. McParland was the final surviving member of that '57 cup-winning side. The last link to one of Villa's greatest days.
He made it to the 2015 FA Cup final against Arsenal as a club guest. I wonder what went through his mind watching from the stands, remembering his own Wembley glory nearly 60 years earlier.
Earlier this year, despite his age, he attended the special exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery celebrating Villa's 150th anniversary. Loyal to the end.
The club statement said they were "profoundly saddened" by his passing. Aren't we all.
Rest easy, Peter. Villa Park won't forget you.
What Happens to Heroes When They're Gone?
I've been thinking about this a lot lately. We're losing the men who built the foundations of the modern game. The ones who played for pride and passion, not Instagram followers.
McParland's passing feels like closing a chapter on football history. Like watching the last dinosaur die out.
I'm going to raise a glass to him tonight. Maybe watch those 1957 cup final goals on YouTube again. Black and white footage that still gives me goosebumps.
My dad always said McParland could "turn on a sixpence and leave change." They don't write phrases like that anymore, do they?
Villa till I die. McParland lived it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the teams that finish at the bottom of the Premier League?
The teams who finish the Premier League season in the bottom 3 positions are relegated into the Championship. This is the second division of English football. The Championship's top two teams, plus the winner from the Championship playoffs get promoted in their place.
How has Premier League evolved from its creation?
Since its founding in 1992, there have been many changes in the Premier League. It began with a breakaway from the Football League to take advantage of a lucrative television rights deal. Since then, this league has grown to be a global sports phenomenon. It attracted top talent around the world. The league has also experienced advancements in sport science, training facilities and stadium technologies. This has contributed to an overall improvement of the football spectacle.
What community initiatives is the Premier League supporting?
The Premier League sponsors a range of initiatives in the community aimed at improving people's lives. These include programs that promote education and sports for young people and the inclusion of underrepresented communities in football. They also support projects which use football as a vehicle for social change. Premier League’s global reach allows them to have an impact on the UK as well as beyond, and emphasizes football’s potential to contribute towards societal wellbeing.
What do you think of the Premier League concept called the 'Big Six?
The 'Big Six’ refers a grouping of Premier League's most influential and successful clubs over the past few years. Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur are typically on the list. These teams have a reputation for a consistently high performance, a huge fan base and financial strength, as well as qualifying frequently for European competitions.
How is Premier League winning determined?
The Premier League winner is the team with the most points during the 38-game regular season. Three points are given to teams for winning, one point for drawing, and no points are awarded if the team loses. If two teams have the same amount of points at the end of the season, the winner will be determined by their goal difference. If the teams still are level, then a game at a neutral ground may decide the title. But this scenario is not known to have happened in Premier League.
Statistics
- Arsenal boasts an unbeaten streak of 49 Premier League matches from May 2003 to October 2004, the longest in the history of the league.
- Alan Shearer is the all-time top scorer in the Premier League with 260 goals across his stellar career.
- Manchester United holds the record for the most Premier League titles, having been crowned champions 20 times.
- Durability is exemplified by Gareth Barry who made an impressive 653 Premier League appearances, the highest number to date.
- Chelsea established the Premier League’s greatest goal difference of +71 in the 2009–2010 season, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive strength.
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How To
Wearing your Premier League Team colors in style
Showing your passion for your Premier League team while looking stylish is possible. You can avoid counterfeit items by buying official team clothing, such as scarves or jerseys, through the team's official store. You can also incorporate your team's colours into your wardrobe by using color-coordinated accessories and clothing. On matchdays feel free to get creative with face paint, full kits, and even custom-made outfits. The key is to wear your colors with confidence and pride.
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