Part 7 - The Goal in the Snow

[TLW]

THE GOAL IN THE SNOW (1946/47)

Written by Steve Horton

Season - 1946/47 Opposition - Birmingham Scorers - Albert Stubbins (3), Jack Balmer Result - 4-1 Venue - Anfield

 

 

 

 

 

 

Albert Stubbins, one of Liverpool’s heroes of the immediate post war era, hit a superb hat trick in an FA Cup 6th round tie against Birmingham at Anfield. One of his goals, a great diving header became known as the ‘goal in the snow’.

The first season after World War 2 was plagued by wintry weather and despite this game being played in early March there was still a blanket of snow over the Anfield pitch. Interest in the game was so great that it was made all ticket, a revolutionary concept at the time.

Three goals from Albert and one from Jack Balmer booked our place in the semi finals, but it was his second goal that is most remembered. Billy Liddell crossed hard and low from the left and Albert flew through the air like a plane in an attempt to connect with the ball. He timed his dive just right and the powerful header into the top corner gave the keeper no chance.

When he landed he sent snow flying everywhere and ended up with cuts on his hands and knees from the frozen ground underneath. The goal was captured by television cameras and serves as a reminder that footballers didn’t always have the luxury of undersoil heating to clear the pitches.


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