![]() ![]() Helens’ captain Tommy O’Neil, ex-Manchester United and 35 years old, set up the first goal after only 4 minutes when, after chasing Barry Lowe’s through ball, he crossed from the left to enable Phil Layhe to head home. So much for protocol, the game kicked off two minutes late but began at a breathtaking pace. Drake had taken his seat in the Royal Box. After the presentation, the National Anthem was played, the bandmaster having waited for a signal to begin and then the players could “kick about” until the referee called the captains together. The teams then had to turn to face each other and stand ready for their presentation to the Chief Guest, Ted Drake. Helens lining up behind a blue flag and Warrington behind a yellow flag. ![]() At 2.48pm precisely the players and managers were to leave the dressing rooms and assemble in the tunnel, followed by the referee and linesmen (as they were known then) and, on a given signal, all were to proceed across the field of play, St. Helens had the North Dressing Room, Warrington the South. The arrangements for the afternoon’s proceedings were set out to the minute by the FA. ![]() Helens Limited, the decision was taken to switch to red and white stripes. Helens Town’s usual colours were blue and white, right up to their move to Knowsley Road in 2000 when, in line with the formation of Sporting Club St. Helens appeared in blue shirts and white shorts. Warrington played in yellow shirts and blue shorts, whilst St. Warrington Town, managed by Dave Taylor, were represented by John O’Brien, Kevin Gratton, Ian Reid, Gordon Hunter, Peter Copeland, Neil Cook, Stephen Hughes, Ian Kinsey, Derek Brownbill (sub. Mark Gledhill), Brian Rigby, Jay McComb and Phil Layhe. Helens Town team was Andy Johnston, Paul Benson, Paul Wilson, Barry Lowe, John Bendon, Marty Cummins, Tommy O’Neil, Jimmy Collins (sub. Then, back to the dressing rooms and the final preparations could begin. With just over an hour to kill, both sets of players stretched their legs on the Wembley turf and greeted their fans, St. The team coach left their Watford hotel for the old “Twin Towers” arriving, as planned, at 1.45pm. The day of the Final was very hot and sunny. ![]()
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