It is a fact known to all footballing fans around the world, that Liverpool fans are the example of how a true fan should be. Take any winning team these days, whether from San Siro, Amsterdam, or any venue around the world and you will hear the Liverpool anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone' being sung from the stands. This is just one, but a strong enough proof, of how The Kop sent Liverpool's name echoing around the world.
The first game I remember was that against Roma in 1984. How can I forget the Bruce Grobbelaar penalty shout-out? Then came the 1985 European Cup Final. My first Liverpool favourite was Phil Neal, followed by Alan Hansen. Ever since John Barnes came on as a sub in the 1986 World Cup match vs Argentina, I doubt if there can be any other player who's career I will follow as if it was my own. He joined Liverpool a year later. The thrills he gave us in those winning teams of the late 80s were followed by several injury setbacks and Digger was never back to his best.
By 1990, the club had established itself as one of football's top teams. The 80s were so full of honours, that winning became a habit. Nonetheless I was always excited when the team featured in the 'match of the day'. Furthermore, I never missed a single episode of 'Big League Soccer'. That was shown here on Tuesdays.
With the celebrations came the pain of the Hillsborough tragedy in 1989. Over 90 Liverpool fans lost their lives, and the tears of that loss made me realise that I was not only in love with the team, but also with the whole city of Liverpool. The feeling of being a true red is something that no words could possibly explain. You can listen to Phil Thompson, or any other Liverpool greats, speaking about the passion of our supporters, however that explains only a fraction of what we really feel. I take a look at all the other teams' supporters, and it leaves me feeling rather special.
The 90s were hardly a time of joy on the pitch, as several factors led to Liverpool's downfall, Even though many clubs would have been proud to achieve the positions we achieved, at Liverpool we never accept second best. For all of us who are attached to the club it is clear that the good times are coming back, sooner than anyone else thinks.
On the 26th of January 2000, the whole of the Liverpool FC squad, but Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler - both injured, came to Malta for a 3 day training camp through the efforts of the local supporters club. Personally, it was more than a dream come true and the time that I spent with the players and officials will remain with me forever. Below are a few photos which I have with the squad members from that 3-day visit.
