Sir Matt

Here's a copy of the poem: The Devils of Old When Red Star forced a 3-3 draw, some sixty years ago, the aggregate was 5 to 4, as recent papers show. A scheduled stop at Munich-Reim saw the plane refuel, where Captain Thain was forced to face a chilling winter duel. An engine surge at take off kept Lord Burghley on the ground, and as the pilot checked his speed he analysed the sound. At 3.04, the third attempt, opposed his common sense, and when the port wing sheared away he lost his best defence. And as the ice and slush conspired, Lord Burghley failed to fly and in the Munich snow that day the season’s passion - died. Where are the boys of Trafford’s turf, where are the lads who played? Where are the stars who graced the pitch through fifty eight’s crusade? They walk on every football field, revered by all the fans, and with the crowds of every match they sing from all the stands.

What a great drawing Brian and so is the poem, a lovely tribute.

Really good likeness Mark

Thanks for looking and reading, Margaret. Always appreciated. Brian

Thank you very much, Josephine. I thought his ears were massive when I was drawing them. Brian PS Couldn't resist the Josephine thing, Linda. My name isn't Mark, but it's definitely a big improvement on Brian. *LOL*

Fabulous portrait of an amazing man and a wonderful tribute.

The 1968 win was on my Eighth birthday, and if memory serves, one of the goalscorers that night had a nineteenth birthday. Brian Kidd. Lovely work. Can we expect to see some Geordie icons?

Great man, great portrait and a great poem Brian

Thank you very much indeed, Carolyn, Phillip and Russell. I'm pleased you liked the portrait and especially pleased to read your comments about Sir Matt's endurance and spirit. So pleased you liked the tribute, Carolyn. Philip, I remember Kidd very well, he played a storming game up front with Aston and the inimitable Best. It was Bobby Charlton and Alex Stepney that I remember most, especially when Eusebio applauded Stepney for his magnificent saves. Best match he ever played, I reckon. Delighted you liked the poem, Russel. Best to all Brian

Oh, Philip! I have a couple of Geordie icons tucked away somewhere. (He says as if he didn't know where. *smile*) They're a couple of years old, though. I'll post one soon. Thanks for mentioning it. Brian

A fine portrait, Brian.

Thank you very much, Lewis. Appreciated, especially from you with your keen eye for a drawing. Brian