Anfield is the home stadium of Liverpool Football Club, and is one of the most respected and revered grounds in English league football. Indeed, Anfield is a UEFA 4 star stadium, meaning that it is suitable to (and has on several ocassions) host international and UEFA European matches. It is also the ground where it's inhabitants spent a total of seven seasons unbeaten there, including a run of 85 consecutive matches.
A Brief History of Anfield
Anfield was opened in 1884 and was originally the home of Everton FC, who played at the ground until 1892, before leaving due to a dispute. A new club was formed, Liverpool FC and they played at Anfield and have been there ever since.
The stadium used to contain both seating and standing (especially at the now legendary Kop End). However, due to the 1985 Heysel Tragedy, which claimed the lives of 39 Juventus fans, Anfield was altered, given coloured seats and a police room. Followiing the 1989 Hillsborough disaster a change was brought about in football, whereby all the grounds in the country were made all seater. This led to the demolition of The Kop and the birth of a new (seated) Kop End.
Above the stairs in the players tunnel that leads down to the pitch there hangs a sign, which simply states "THIS IS ANFIELD". It's purpose is to bring luck to those who touch it, and accordingly, all the Liverpool players and coaching staff place one, or both hands on it as they pass under it.
The Atmosphere Of Anfield
Descending into the stands at Anfield is an incredible spectacle. A cauldron-like fortress, sat on Anfield Road. Bristling and buzzing on match day, with spectators squashed in, like sardines in a tin can. As banners wave, shirts hug to bodies, and thousands wait expectantly, impatiently, for their heroes to deliver.
Warriors take to the turf as the crowd cheer and shout. It is almost like the games in the collesiums of ancient Rome. As the battles rage the hopes of thousands rest on the shoulders of only a select few. The dreams of so many visitors washed away in a tide of red. As every misery and glory reigns in, right to the death, the chorus of peers in unison cry to the heavens, arms outstretched, heads held high, knowing, in their hearts, they will never walk alone. Hope beyond hope. Belief beyond reason. Passion beyond control. This is Anfield.
Matthew Biggin - Matthew Biggin is currentIy studying a freelance writing course with an organization known as The Writer's Bureau, whereby he completes a ...
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