MCFC 20TH CENTURY CHRONICLE SEASON 1971-72

The Matches

Despite a 1-0 defeat by Leeds in the opening League fixture, 1971-72 was a season of excitement with the Blues managing to mount a serious title challenge.  There were several thrilling victories in the first two months, most notably the 4-0 victories over Crystal Palace and Tottenham in August.  Part of the credit for this went to City’s groundsman Stan Gibson who, under the direction of Malcolm Allison, had widened the pitch by 2 yards.  This made it the largest playing surface in England, and gave City’s team of entertainers plenty of freedom.