Original subtitles

(bright upbeat music)

Small town story!

Ordinary folks that you meet in the street

Small town story!

A Boy meets a girl, life can be sweet

In a small town story

Could be your own home town

Tears and laughter

Cheers and after fame and renown

Hope and glory

That's the story of a small town

(whistling)

- [Bob Voiceover] Oldchester, just too small town,

Several miles south west of London.

Nothing unusual about Oldchester,

not famous for industry, no world wide celebrity

Was ever born here.

In fact nothing outstanding ever happened there

until one day in 1948 when...

But that comes later.

Much of the local interest centres around

Oldchester United Football Club,

a non-league club consisting of a group of enthusiastic

part time players.

For example Les Smith, the speedy left winger,

Owns and runs his own grocery store.

Al Brookes, United centre half and captain,

Had his own hairdressing business.

Inside right Billy Carter, schemer of the forward line

Keeps the townsfolk supplied with fish.

While old George Taylor, between milk deliveries,

keep the turf up to standard,

And of course many others.

But none so important as the manager,

secretary and general organiser,

Michael Spencer Collins.

He lives for football, and the future of the United.

As I approach his house I wonder whether or not he still runs his small garage business,

which during the war employed one motor mechanic,

With his daughter Jackie serving the petrol.

(doorbell ringing)

- Glory be is it yourself?

- Hello Jeanie, is Mr Collins at home?

- Mr er, Mr...

- Reagan is the name.

- Oh of course it is, I know it as well as I know my own,

come in, come in.

Miss Jackie, come down here this minute,

Mr McReagan's come back.

- Bob. - Jackie.

- Bob, how wonderful, I can hardly believe it's you.

- Yep, all the way from Canada.

Plane got in this morning, And I grabbed the first train down here.

- Oh it's wonderful to see you again.

- Hey, you've grown into quite a gal,

why didn't somebody tell me. I wouldn't have stayed away so long.

So you've still got it huh?

- It's good to have you back with us Bob,

like old times, but you haven't told us yet

why you're here.

- Well I came over to find Pat.

- Pat? - Pat Lane you mean.

That blonde girl in the WAF.

- That's right, I met her when I was stationed here with the Canadian air force, but when I got

back home to Canada we used to write Each other all the time.

I told her that I'd come back here as soon

As I'd made a little cash.

After I was demobilised I even went up north To work in the lumbar trade.

- [Mike] But you were a motor car mechanic.

- Yes I know, but I wanted to make a little quick money, and I was doing all right too,

until her letters began to slow up,

Then they stopped altogether.

- That why you came back then?

- Yeah, I figured it was best to come over and see her.

- She doesn't live here anymore.

- I know it, but I hoped you might be able... - All I knew is she moved to London some months ago.

- Well I, I guess that makes everything Just a little bit more difficult that's all.

- You had better stay here with us Until you've made up your mind what you're going to do.

You can have your old room back again, Jackie will fix it up for you.

- [Jackie] I've already done that.

- I'll give you some work at the garage,

And you can have a game or two with Oldchester United.

- I'd like that fine.

Tell me, how's the team making out these days?

- You'll hardly recognise it, we've made a lot of improvements, changing rooms,

Gymnasium and a medical room.

- All you want now is the FA challenge cup.

- We'd have to pinch that I'm afraid. We've got a good team all right, keen as mustard,

but the trouble is Bob most of the boys

work pretty hard at other jobs during the week And we can only train in the evenings.

- So money is what you need then?

- Money, and a first class player (mumbles).

I wondered you've never turned professional Bob.

You were good enough.

- I wanted too, but there is no professional soccer in Canada as yet.

- Still, how about coming over to the pitch Tomorrow evening and meeting some of the boys hey?

- Sure I'd like that. - Good.

- [Bob] Let it go Bill, right.

Hey Joe!

- That boy Reagan's not bad.

Not bad at all.

He'd be just the right man for us.

(gentle upbeat music)

Okay boys, that's enough for the day. Get a quick rub down in the shower.

Now governor, see if you can get him to stay.

- Bob, come here a moment.

- I'll leave it to you.

- Boots fits all right?

- Sure, made to measure.

- Like to hang on to them for a while?

- Yeah, but I don't... - Go on keep them, they're spare.

- Okay thanks.

- Now look here Bob, I don't know what your ideas are

but if you're planning to stick around in England

I suppose you'll take up the game seriously.

- Well that's what I'd like too. - Why not make a start here.

It's the finest training in the world,

And we can certainly do with yah.

Now Bob, I'll, I'll be frank with yah.

George's getting a bit centre forward,

We want somebody who can shoot, and what's more score.

A spearhead who could polish off the efforts Of the team and you can do that.

You'd make Oldchester into a fast team.

- Well Mike that's very nice.

- Never mind that, will you join us or won't yah?

- Look you know if I could I'd be glad too.

I like the team, they're a grand bunch of boys but...

- Pat hey?

- Yeah I guess so.

Till I find her I can't say anything.

- It would do.

- Well then there'd be nothing I'd like better.

- That's great, I think I'll buy you a bottle

Of beer for that Bob, now run along and get changed. - Fine.

- I've known you since the day you were born so I've a right to give you a word of advice

and it's this.

Get a grip on Mr McReagen before somebody else does.

- Not sure that I want too. - Oh get away with you, you've been making eyes

at him since the minute he come back. - I've been doing nothing of the sort Jeanie.

Anyway, he's not interested in me. - Ach, what does that matter?

- It matters a lot. - It's none of his business.

- [Bob] Should be all right.

- Here they are. - Oh aye.

- Hello Jackie. - Hello you two, how'd you get on?

- I managed it up a little. - Oh good, anyway Mr Marsh phoned, the solicitor,

he wants you to call him back. - Marsh, what does he want?

You've paid all the bills I hope Jackie. - Most of them.

I don't think it's anything like that,

But he'd like you to see him tomorrow at his office.

- All right.

- Well I don't agree.

- Mr Collins, Mr Marsh. - Oh yes.

- Will you come this way Mr Collins?

- Good morning Mr Collins. - Good morning.

- This is Mr Nicholas Hammond.

- How do you do? - Do sit down.

- Thank you.

- You're still manager of the Oldchester United

Football Club Mr Collins?

- Yes, that's so.

- And of course you remember the late Wallace Hammond.

- [Collins] Very well indeed,

He was a very old friend of mine.

- Yes he states that in his will.

A will in which both you and Mr Nicholas Hammond

are interested.

- Me?

- Yes, Mr Hammond leaves his entire estate

To the Oldchester United Football Club.

- What?

- Quite a considerable estate.

Net value about 25,000 pounds.

- 25,0007

- There are however two conditions.

The club must be accepted into what is described

as the third division south of the English football league

within three seasons following the publication

of this will, otherwise the estate goes to

Mr Nicholas Hammond.

- I call it damned unfair.

- It's not unusual for a will to lay some obligation

Upon a beneficiary.

- I don't mean that, I mean leaving it to the club at all.

I know he didn't altogether approve of me but...

- No I formed that impression too.

The other clause Mr Collins states

that the club shall give up any claim

Should you divulge the terms of the will to anyone.

-I understand that.

- Nothing to stop you talking Mr Hammond.

It obviously wouldn't be in your own interests to do so.

- Obviously.

I'm not going to talk.

And I'll tell you something else I'm not going to do,

I'm not going to let 25,000 slip through my fingers

Without doing something about it.

(crowd chattering)

- [Announcer] Attention please, attention.

Will you please note that abdications for seats

at the coming return match against Gilmouth

Should be in by Wednesday next latest.

(crowd moaning)

- The spin is that Oldchester's going to win.

- Can't make it out, haven't won a game since that flood.

- Do you know anything about him?

Have they got any real chance of getting into

the third division.

- Ha, have I got any real chance of being

President of the United States.

(crowd cheering)

Coming out for the second half, watch 'em now.

- You mean they can't keep this us?

- Not a chance.

- Good.

(crowd shouting)

- [Man] Get rid of it!

(crowd cheering)

- You told me Oldchester were a lousy team.

- Yeah, they've got this...

- Who's the chap who scored the last goal?

- I was gonna say he's a newcomer from Canada,

Names Reagan.

- Reagen?

(crowd cheering)

This fellow Reagen's dangerous.

- Yes.

- Do you know anything about him?

- Not much, there was some gossip about a woman.

Forget her name.

Began with an S, no Lane, that's it Lane,

Patricia Lane.

- Patricia Lane?

Pat Lane.

Well well, it's a small world.

- Bob Reagen? - Yeah.

- I'm Benson, Arsenal football club.

- Glad to know you.

- How would you like a trial with the Arsenal?

- You mean, surely l...

- You're not good enough yet, no of course you not.

If we take you on I think we'll do something with you,

You've got plenty of stuff in you.

Now what do you say?

- Well there's nothing I'd like better,

it'd be wonderful, but right now I...

- All right forget it, still if you change your mind

Just give me a call will you.

- Yes I will Mr Benson.

- There's my address.

And you think it over, the offer will always be open,

Remember that.

- Thanks a lot Mr Benson, I certainly appreciate your offer.

- Goodbye.

- [Bob] A trial with the Arsenal.

- Hey Mr. - Yeah.

- Can I have your autograph please?

- Yeah sure son.

Hey you again, what's the idea,

You've had my autograph five times already.

- It's six if you want to get one of Stanley Matthews.

- Six, no 12.

- I'll wait for you, I've got the car.

- Okay, ready in five minutes.

- You played a wonderful game.

- I guess I'm getting used to it again.

- It's made a big difference having you here,

To the team, and all of us.

- Yeah I know kid, and I'd like fine to stay

But right now I've got to find Pat.

I've got to find out why she stopped writing.

Maybe she figured I wouldn't wait around, I don't know.

Anyhow I've gotta find her.

- Bob, I've found her address.

- You have?

- Girlfriend of mine had it.

- But that's terrific.

- Bob, promise me one thing,

write to her first.

- Why?

- You don't know much about women do you?

- I don't get it.

- Well they don't like being taken by surprise.

- Look, I surprised you didn't I, did you mind?

- That's different.

Pat, Pat might be married.

- Pat, married, she'd never...

- It's been a long time Bob, anything might have happened.

- What makes you say that, do you know something?

- No, nothing I haven't told you already.

- Okay, I'll write her.

Now stick around here, let me go and get dressed,

I'll be five minutes.

(phone ringing)

- Hello.

Nick darling.

- Listen darling, there's a little matter

I'd like to talk to you about.

Yeah, do you mind if I come round?

- Of course darling, but tell me about it,

it sounds so mysterious.

Bob Reagen, well yes I used to know him.

I've just had a letter from him as a matter of fact,

He wants to see me again but I don't think I'll bother.

(romantic music)

(screams)

- Excuse me.

Gee,

No it can't be.

- Itis.

- I don't believe it, Pat this is wonderful.

How are you?

Wait, wait till I get some of this stuff off.

It's great to see you honey, did you get my letter?

- Yes I came down at once.

- You went up to the house first huh?

- Jackie told me you were here.

- Well Pat, are you er,

Is there, you know what I mean?

And everything's just the same.

- As ever was darling.

- That's all I wanted to know, don't go anywhere.

Pat. - Yes?

- Why did you stop writing?

Why did you stop writing honey?

- There seemed so little hope.

We were only hurting each other by pretending

That words brought us closer together.

- But you knew I was coming back.

- It seemed too good to be true.

Too good to believe that we weren't just

another wartime affair.

- Yes but surely...

- Besides how was I to know that I had the right

to drive you away from your home and your job,

Your whole life out there.

- Honey that's nonsense.

- It does seem like it now.

- Never mind, I'll never let you go again,

nothing else matters.

(phone ringing)

- Sorry I'm late.

- It's all right, I started.

- Good.

Where's your young man?

- He isn't my young man.

- Isn't he, well where is he anyway?

He usually manages to get here for lunch.

- Don't expect he'll manage today.

- Anything wrong?

- No, not really, except Pat's arrived.

- Pat?

That's too bad, I was hoping,

I wish you hadn't given him that address.

- I had too, it wouldn't have been fair if I hadn't.

- No I suppose not, he'd have found her

in the long run anyhow.

It's a great pity all the same,

He was settling down nicely, working in well with the team.

It's going to make a big difference.

I had hoped he would have helped us along

to the third division...

- You'd think he was leaving us the way you're talking.

- Well I suppose he had...

Jackie, what's wrong?

- Nothing. (Jackie crying)

- Jackie!

Oh well.

- Where did you go when you left Oldchester?

- I took a job in London as a receptionist to club.

- Quite a job.

Smart clothes, car, how much do they give you?

- Bob, you look much cleaner now.

- [Bob] I feel a little better.

How much did they give you?

- Give me a light will you?

- [Bob] Yeah sure.

- Quite like old times isn't it?

- Sure, how long will it take you

To pack up in London?

- Pack up? - Yeah.

- I don't understand what do you mean pack up?

- Well we are gonna be married aren't we?

- But I thought, aren't you coming to London?

- But what's the matter with this place?

- Well I can't drop everything and come here.

There's my flat and my friends,

And there's my job.

- Is it all that important?

- But darling you are being difficult,

it was me you came to find wasn't it,

or was it Oldchester.

- Look honey, be reasonable.

- Reasonable, so now I'm not being reasonable.

You think you can write to me and you expect me

To drop everything and come to you at once.

You might have even come to London to look for me

And now you call me unreasonable.

- [Bob] You know I tried to find you.

- I dream about what it's going to be like,

I make plans, I want to take you back with me

to show you around, enjoy things with you,

go mad with you, forget these years

that I waited, not daring to hope,

And all you can say is I'm unreasonable.

- I didn't know you felt this way.

- You don't seem to care how I feel.

- Listen darling...

- You're not in love with me, you're in love

with this football club.

- Now look honey.

- Oh, stop honeying it's no use, I'm going back.

I thought everything was gonna be wonderful.

- Darling.

- I'm so miserable.

- Okay, I'll come to London.

- Promise?

- I guess so. - Oh darling.

- Well this is it Mike.

- It's hard to find a good centre forward

But it's a lot harder to lose one.

- We're not losing him.

- I'm coming back here, don't you worry.

(car horn blaring) Now that's Pat.

She's getting impatient.

So long Mike. - So long.

- Bye Jackie.

Now don't you get any prettier while I'm gone

or you'll start a riot.

- Look after yourself Bob.

(clock chiming)

- Yes but the Arsenal is a big club darling,

They're not interested in me.

I'll bet Al Benson has forgotten all about me by this time.

- Didn't he tell you to get in touch with him

if you changed your mind?

- Yeah but...

- Anyway you must know somebody who's able to help?

- Not a soul, who's anything to do with foot...

Wait a minute though, Dennis Compton.

- Dennis Compton, you know Dennis Compton?

- Pretty well, we met during the war, he was in the army.

- Well for goodness sake, what are you waiting for?

- Look honey, I've got to get back to Oldchester some time.

- My darling, I sometimes think you don't quite realise

Just how important your future is to me.

This is a wonderful opportunity.

What's his number?

- Okay, I'd like to see old Dennis again anyhow.

(phone ringing)

- Hello.

- [Bob] Is that Dennis Compton?

- Yes, Compton here.

- [Bob] This is Bob Reagen.

- Who?

- [Bob] Bob Reagen.

- Reagen? - Yeah Bob.

- Bob Reagen, what are you doing in England?

- It's a long story Dennis, I'll tell you when I see you.

Look, I need some advice, could I look you up sometime?

- Yes that's fine Bob, I'll be glad to see you.

- [Bob] Well I'll come over now then.

- It's a little tricky today.

- Oh. - How about tomorrow then?

- [Bob] Okay, I'll be at the clubhouse early.

- Yes. - Early.

- Say around 11:30.

- 11:30 it is. - Okay Bob, tomorrow then.

- 80 long Dennis. - Be seeing you.

- Hiya Dennis.

- Hello Bob.

- It's good to see you pal.

- It must be three years now Bob.

- More like four I guess.

- Now let's see, the last time we met was

That awful inter-services match at Oldchester.

- Oh boy do I remember that day.

But you've been doing all right in football since then,

Not to mention your efforts at this game.

- Oh well Bob, I've had more then my fair share of luck.

But come on let's hear about your news Bob.

- Well you see Dennis it's like this.

So I came to London, and that's really all there is to it.

Cigarette. - Thanks.

Now tell me Bob, why didn't you accept the offer

from our talent scout?

- Well at that time I hadn't found Pat.

But now that I know she has to stay in London,

well I figured maybe you could help me

Find out if his offer still holds good.

- Of course Bob, now don't you worry,

I'll ring him this afternoon.

And anyway I feel certain everything will be all right.

- Oh that's great, thanks a million.

(bright upbeat music)

Well Bob, how did it feel to belong to Arsenal?

- Terrific.

- You know, while you're on trial your name's in pencil,

But later if they like you they'll ink you in.

- It can't be too soon for me.

- There aren't many rules Bob,

they don't tell us what to do or what not to do,

they leave it to us.

But there is one tip I'd like to give you.

Now look at this, non-smoker, non-drinker,

Non-smoker, non-drinker, non-smoker, non-drinker.

Okay Dennis, I get you, you don't have to worry about me.

From now on it's the Arsenal and a bottle of ink for that.

(gentle music)

- Happy? - Sure.

- Well you don't sound very convincing.

- I guess maybe I don't feel very convincing right now.

- Darling is anything wrong?

- I had a letter from Collins today.

- What did he say?

- The team is not doing so good.

- You're not thinking of going back?

- No, look Pat, I think we've waited long enough.

I want to settle down, have a home, and get married.

- Listen darling, think of the chance

You're getting with Arsenal.

You're glad about that aren't you.

- Who wouldn't be?

- Then forget everything else right now,

You've gotta keep your mind on one thing.

Just think of the future, our future.

- I suppose you're right.

(smooth jazz music)

- Please Mr Hammond.

- Yes Mrs Corbett, something I can do for you?

- I wonder if.

- How much? - 100.

- Nice colour.

- I had the stone specially cut.

- Remarkable what they can do with glass nowadays.

The settings worth a fiver, any use to you.

- Well I thought it...

(buzzer ringing)

- Hello, come in.

- Good evening Nick.

- I've been expecting you for some time.

- I know, I haven't been able to get away until now.

- Well how are things going?

- He's settling down very nicely.

He's signed on with Arsenal.

- Good.

Turner tells me that Oldchester United are losing matches

With agreeable consistency.

- Nick, I'm rather worried.

- Oh, what about.

- What's Tony gonna say about all this?

- I'll take care of Tony.

- And Nick there's another thing.

- Yes.

- I think I deserve a little more money, don't you?

- One must think of the future.

He might go back to Oldchester.

- Would you darling?

- Don't.

You make me feel jealous.

Nick darling, what a gorgeous colour.

- Yes, the stone was specially cut.

- Nick was it terribly expensive?

- The setting alone cost money.

(suspenseful music)

(Pat gasps) - Tony.

- Care to see me.

- Of course.

- You surprised to see me?

- Very.

Give me a light.

How did you get out?

- Well early this morning a man with a big key came round

and he said Tony Warren you've been a very good boy

The last six weeks, how would you like to go home?

So I said, couldn't I stay for another couple of days

and he said, I'm sorry chum but your rooms booked

From tomorrow.

And he shook me by the hand and he said,

Don't be naughty again.

Next time you leave Switzerland don't bring

Anymore watches strapped round your middle.

By the way darling, you're very late tonight,

Where have you been?

- Tony dear, since you went away for your little holiday

A wonderful chance has come along.

- Goon.

- The only thing is you won't be able to come here

for a while.

- And what's so wonderful about that?

- Well, you see.

- No I don't see, now stop being so mysterious.

And stop being so damned alluring.

It confuses me.

- Darling, I've got to play up to somebody

for a special reason, and it wouldn't be convincing

With you around.

- What are you talking about?

- I've got to keep a man in London.

- Keep him.

- Darling, don't be so silly, I didn't mean that.

- And what's it got to do with me?

- Well if he found out that you and I were friendly...

- I don't mind, who is he?

- Well you wouldn't know him,

And I'm being paid 5000 pounds to keep him here.

- 5000 pounds, now come on, who's the sucker?

- Tony listen to me, I need the money.

I can't stand the thought of being poor,

I'm not made that way.

And I'm not doing anyone any harm, not any real harm.

I wouldn't want that.

I can't help it if people are silly.

Tony you must believe me.

- Who's paying you?

- Well, it's Nick.

- Nick!

Nick!

I might have known it.

You know what I feel about Nick,

The minute I'm away you start fooling around with him.

- Well listen Tony... - You keep quiet.

I'm sick and I'm tired of Nick and his fancy games.

Now you can tell him it's all off,

you hear that, tell him it's all off.

- And you can stop giving me orders.

- Cut that out.

I suppose Nick gave you that line of talk.

- Tony.

- What's been going on while I was inside?

- Can't you understand I wanna be rid of you.

- All right.

- Tony, I want my key too.

- We don't always get what we want, do we my darling.

- I do wish you'd be reasonable Tony.

-I used 10 be reasonable,

But it never got me anywhere.

- Let's forget the past shall we.

This is a big thing.

- I've got too good a memory.

- You can forget anything for 5000 pounds.

- Not anything.

I can't forget how much I don't like you.

- This is on the level Tony, we've got a break.

- We?

- I've been left 25,000 pounds.

Think of that Tony, honest money.

- I've never seen the stuff, what's it like.

- There's only one snag, if Oldchester United

get into the football league,

The money goes to them instead.

- That sounds nuts.

- There's a chap called Reagen, Canadian,

He was over here during the war, he's good.

If he plays for Oldchester

They might make the third division.

Pat used to know him when he was here before.

She's managed to persuade him to come to London,

And now he's tied up with Arsenal.

- I knew I didn't like you.

- Now look Tony...

- When I was a boy I wanted to be a professional footballer.

I liked it, it was clean, but I never made the grade.

And I've always had a respect for the ones that did.

- Very pretty.

So you don't like the idea?

- I wouldn't pick it up with a pair of tongs.

- Well that's no reason why Pat shouldn't pick up

5000 pounds.

- Well I don't like the idea of this boy being fooled.

And I don't want Pat mixed up with you.

- Hello Tony, hello darling.

- So that's how it is.

- Tony, I want my key.

- I'll drop it on the pavement.

- You know, he's a nice chap.

- What do you mean?

- I'd have killed you.

- Hi Dennis. - Hey Bob.

You're lucky aren't you?

- Lucky, how's that?

- Well haven't you heard, you're playing tomorrow.

- What me, for the first team.

- Yes, Dougie Lichman has pulled a muscle

And you're playing for the inside left.

- No kidding.

(crowd cheering) (upbeat music)

(whistle blowing)

- Oh nice, very nice.

(bright music)

- [Nick Voiceover] There's a chap called Reagen,

Pat used to know him when he was here before.

She's managed to persuade him to come to London.

- [Pay Voiceover] I've got to play up to somebody

for a special reason, and I'm being paid 5000 pounds

To keep him here.

- [Nick Voiceover] He's good, if he plays for Oldchester,

They might make the third division.

There's only one snag, if Oldchester United

Get in the football league, the money goes to them instead.

(whistling)

(tense music)

- Come right in.

- Well thank you, I'm in.

Smashing game wasn't it?

- Yeah.

- You're pretty good.

Great goal that last one.

- Thanks.

- It's tough on Oldchester not being able to keep you.

- Look, I, I guess somebody must have questioned you huh?

- Yes that's right.

My name's Tony Warren.

- Glad to meet you, what's on your mind?

- Well this isn't gonna be easy, you know Pat Lane?

- Well I should do, she's my fiance,

what about her?

- (laughs) Fiance.

That's a laugh.

- What's so funny about that?

- I hate to see a fella like you being made a fool of,

About time somebody told you.

- What are you getting at?

- Don't you get excited.

- Time somebody told me about what?

- About Pat Lane.

- Yes.

- Well I know her quite well,

I know her better then you do as a matter of fact.

That's why I'm here.

- [Bob] Is this Mr Nick Hammond's place?

- [Man] Yes, that's right.

- [Bob] I'd like to talk to him please.

- [Man] I'm afraid you can't, he's engaged.

- [Bob] I can't help that, I'll see him anyway.

- [Man] I tell you it's quite impossible.

- It's Reagen.

- Nick what's happened?

- I don't know, you better get out of sight quick.

Good evening, is there something I can do for you?

- So you're Nick Hammond?

- Won't you sit down.

- Know anybody called Pat Lane?

- [Nick] Yes I know Miss Lane slightly.

- And Tony Warren, you know him too?

- [Nick] Of course, he used to come here and play poker.

- He told me a story I don't like.

- It's a habit of his.

Did you tell me your name?

- I didn't have too, you know it.

How much did you give Pat Lane to keep me away

from Oldchester?

- Mr Reagen, this is my flat.

I object to people I don't know forcing their way

In here and cross examining me.

Why don't you go.

- And who's gonna make me?

- What exactly do you want?

- The truth.

And I'm gonna stay here and bat hell out of you

till 1 get it.

Are you paying Pat to keep me in London?

- Why the hell should I want you in London?

- Oh quit stalling Hammond,

You wanted to keep me away from Oldchester United.

- [Nick] Oldchester, are you crazy?

- [Bob] 5000 pounds Hammond, that's what you paid her

Wasn't it.

- All right so you know all about it, so what!

(Nick groans)

I tell you something else, she'd have done it

Without the 5000.

She'd do anything for me, you understand, anything.

- For that money I can imagine.

- Darling that was a silly thing to say,

Or do you like being knocked about?

- Hello Reagen, just the very man I wanted to see.

You did very well last week.

Now you're playing this Saturday against Sunderland.

What's the matter with you, you look worried.

- Look Mr Benson, I came here to see you because

I wondered if, if it was possible for you to...

- Now there are only two reasons why a player looks worried,

Either he's had another offer or he's unhappy.

If you've had another offer forget it,

If you're not happy it's either a woman or your homesick.

If it's a woman you forget it,

no point in keeping you here if you're unhappy,

You better go back to Oldchester.

That's what you want isn't it hey,

I'll fix it with the manager.

Quite easy, you've only been here on trial.

Now off you go, go on, back to Oldchester,

And if you're still unhappy back you come to us.

Anything else?

- No sir, thank you very much.

- Oh forget it, forget it.

(upbeat music) (train chugging)

- [Bob Voiceover] I fully realised that I was walking out

On a great opportunity by leaving the Arsenal.

But despite this I couldn't get back to Oldchester

fast enough.

I found myself hoping that Mike Collins had not yet

signed up another player to take my place

in the forward line.

(whistling)

- Bob.

- Hello kid.

- Well boys, you all know by now that Bob Reagen's

Come back to us.

(all chattering)

He'll be playing again at centre forward.

We'll talk about the necessary changes

During our next training session.

Now there's one other thing I have to tell you,

as you know I'm very anxious to see Oldchester United

In the third division south.

Now the best way of proving to the football association

that we'd be worthy members, or even persuading

their officials to come down and see us play at all

is by getting far enough into the FA cup to be drawn

Against a professional club.

Then if we put up a good enough show,

and I promise to make the necessary improvements

in the stands and terraces, I've been assured

That everything will be okay.

(all chattering)

(bright upbeat music)

(crowd chattering)

- Hello there, ladies and gentlemen,

And welcome to Oldchester.

Now I know you've all been following the struggles

of this gallant club very closely indeed

In the FA Cup competition.

Well this is their great day,

and it just seems to be as if the whole town

is crammed into this comparatively small ground

to watch this non-league club play

A first division side in the fourth round.

May I say that we are very glad indeed

to have the television cameras here

On such a momentous occasion.

(crowd chattering)

- Now boys there's no need to get nervous.

We can beat Bearhampton and we're going to.

Get a goal in the first 10 minutes,

It makes a big difference in a game like this.

Well that's all boys, and good luck.

- Thanks Mike - Thanks Mike

- Good luck I'll keep my fingers crossed for you,

I'll be thinking of you.

- Bob, you know what this game means to us don't you?

Just get that ball into the net.

- Don't you worry Mike.

- Good luck Bob.

(crowd cheering)

- And here come the teams, and there come Oldchester

the local heroes, and of course there you can see

Bob Reagen number nine in his jersey,

He's centre forward, and back again at the side.

And here come their first division stars and opponents,

Bearhampton

- It's Bob Reagan daddy.

Let's hope he's in good form today,

he's got with him Baker, Smith, Thomas and Carter

on the forward line.

- And now here's the referee calling

the respective captains out to toss up

For choice of ends and kick off.

So Oldchester won the toss, and they've decided

To defend the north park end.

(whistle blowing)

Ball for Lloyd, but he's tackled by Hill of Oldchester.

Hill beats his man and puts a nice ball

through Baker, up into Bearhampton half.

Tarrow of the Bears throws out to Johnny King,

Who slips it up through then middle.

Hill intercepts and saves a breakthrough.

Crawton has the ball again now,

racing into the Oldchester penalty area,

he's got a chance here, he shoots,

And the ball just goes wide of that post.

That was a close shave for Oldchester.

To be down a goal this early could put paid

to any team.

Now here's Stubbs coming to take the goal kick.

Oldchester's inside left's got the ball,

And he's lost it to Lloyd of Bearhampton.

He dribbles through to the Oldchester penalty area.

- [Woman] Come on Lovers.

(whistle blows)

- Well that was a very easy one for the Bears

Centre forward, he just didn't give the goalkeeper a chance.

- Well done ref.

- Reagen to Carter, Carter beats it in

And passes through to Thomas on the right wing.

Thomas centres, and what a pity there's no forward

up there to make use of it,

And the ball's gone to a defender.

It's still up there in front of the Bears goal.

Woodtown to Smith who cleverly slips it back to Hill,

he puts it over the heads of the defence,

For Smith to run onto again, but he's too late.

(whistle blowing) And it goes behind

for a goal kick.

- [Man] Take him off ref.

- No wait a minute, it must have touched Bane

Because Smith's appeal for a corner has come off.

And now here comes Smith to take the kick.

That was bad luck for Oldchester,

the centre half managed to clear that ball

Before he could even get his head to it.

Now Baker comes in with the ball,

he puts it right through a defenders legs,

onto Reagen's foot.

(whistle blowing)

Wait a minute, wait a minute,

no there's something wrong there.

Reagen must have been off-side,

The referees disallowed the goal.

That's tough luck on Oldchester because a goal

equaliser just before half time might have made

All the difference to them.

- What a swizz, that ref must be blind as a bat.

- [Man] Come on the blues.

- Now it can't be long to half time now,

And at the moment the Bears are well on top.

Lloyd's taking the ball well up into

The Oldchester half.

He sends a long pass up through the middle

but the Oldchester goalie gets to it easily

And throws the ball out to left back.

- [Man] Let it go, get rid of it.

- He takes it up the left wing, meets his man,

Passes the outside left.

The throw in goes to the Bears right half

who puts it right up in the Oldchester box,

But it's much to far forward for call.

Stubbs comes out, punts away to the centre circle,

Trapped by Kent before he can control it.

Davis dispossesses him and passes to Lloyd.

Oldchester's winger tries to cross it,

but Bane is too quick for him,

And it's gone behind for a goal kick.

Farrow takes a long ball right up into

the Oldchester half where Steven's heads it

Neatly to Hill, Hill to Baker.

- Come on Oldster!

(crowd cheering)

- That was a beautiful move by Tommy Baker.

He put in past Reagen, and Reagen made no mistake

about it at all.

Well that's Oldchester one, Bearhampton one now,

and if Oldchester keep this up then

it's anybody's game.

(whistle blowing)

(whistle blowing)

- Well that brilliant, last minute effort by Reagen

Brings us to half time and the score is now one all.

And I shall be back with you again very shortly

to keep you in touch with the second half

Of this most exciting game.

(crowd shouting) (dramatic music)

- Mr Reagen.

- Yeah what is it son.

- A gent gave me this for you,

Said it's very important.

- Thanks kid.

- Look Jack. - Uh huh.

- Is it okay if I slip out for a second?

- What?

- This is from Dennis Compton,

he's been watching the first half

and he wants me to nip out to his car,

have a word with him.

- Why can't he come here, you know you're not supposed too...

- Yeah I know I'm not supposed to leave the ground

During a game but, so does Dennis.

So I figure it's important.

- All right but make it snappy.

- Thanks Jack.

(tense dramatic music)

Hi Dennis.

- Get in.

I said get in.

- Bob! - Just too late.

- No we're not, we've got a car here, come on.

- Come on then.

Let me drive.

(car engine roaring) (tense dramatic music)

- [Announcer] And here are the players

coming out for the second half.

Well this should be a real thriller.

Hello, who's missing, it's Reagen,

The Oldchester centre forward.

That's strange, I didn't think he was hurt

In the first half.

Well let's hope he won't be off long

because it will be a big handicap for Oldchester

With only 10 men.

Anyhow, there goes the whistle and Oldchester kick off.

(train engine chugging)

Met the ball with his head and flicked it

Only a few inches wide of the upright.

This looks bad for Oldchester.

I still can't understand what's happened to Reagen.

If anyone needed their 11th man,

Oldchester certainly do now.

Stubbs take the goal kick and sends the ball up field

to his outside right.

(car engine roaring)

- Bob?

- I might have guessed you'd be in on this somewhere.

(dramatic music) (car engine roaring)

- Which way now?

(tyres squealing)

- This way apparently.

- This is the first time for quite a while

That play's been inside the Bearhampton half.

Heaven's knows yet what's happened to Reagen

But his team could surely do with him now.

Now the Bears have the ball again.

(crowd shouting)

Sam Lloyd was tripper there and it looks as though

He's been hurt because the trainer's just been called on.

- [Man] Send him off.

- [Man] Look up ref.

- Free kick to Bearhampton and Davis is about to take it.

The Oldchester keeper punts up field, it's gone to Carter.

Carter who's taken Reagen's place there has a chance

of a breakthrough.

No he passes it to Smith, Smith on the edge

Of the Bearhampton penalty area.

He tries a shot but the centre half intercepts.

He heads away to his inside right who's come back

in defence and he takes the ball

Away out on the left wing.

Now Lloyd's dribbling up the wing,

Small, neatly through to the outside right.

And the balls gone for a corner.

Well Bears are really pressing now

and here's a very good chance for them

To increase their score.

(whistle blowing)

(crowd cheers)

Score Bearhampton two, Oldchester one.

Well Bear's are completely on top now,

and Oldchester will have to pull something

Out the bag pretty soon if they're gonna save this game.

(whistle blowing)

They're kicking off again with Carter,

makes a long pass to Thomas, he centres first time

and Carter takes a header at goal

But the Bear's centre half gets a foot to it.

The ball's in the air, Thomas races in to hit it first time

But it just goes over the bar.

This is the first time for quite a while

That play's been inside the Bearhampton half.

The visitors are certainly pressing home their advantage,

and the Oldchester defence have really got

Their backs to the wall.

(car engine roaring)

- Are you sure? - Yup.

That's Nick's car all right.

- They must have taken him to that house.

But that's old Mr Hammond's place.

- Hammond, Nick's uncle.

- Who's Nick?

- I don't think you'd like him,

But I've got a hunch he's in that house.

Now you better stay here, turn the car around

But keep the engine running.

- [Announcer] Well there's no doubt about it

that Reagen's disappearance from the field

Has made a big difference.

Oldchester just seem to have gone to pieces,

and at the moment there doesn't seem to be

Much doubt about the outcome.

A pity for Oldchester, this game might well decide

Their future status.

- Say Hammond, what do you get for Kidnapping

In this country?

- Turner, take him in the next room, keep him quiet.

I want to watch this, I'm enjoying it.

- Get moving.

- [Announcer] There's another Bearhampton movement

Starting now, this looks dangerous.

Yes the Bears have completely taken the initiative

and as I said before one forward short

Is a big disadvantage to Oldchester.

Oldchester's inside left gets the ball

but loses to Roy of Bearhampton,

Dribbles towards the Oldchester penalty area.

He's too slow, and gifts it to the Bears

Who slips it through to inside left Peak.

- Say Turner. - Yeah.

- What do you tell your kids

When they ask you what they do for a living?

- Tell them to mind their own business.

- [Announcer] Davis manages to kick the ball up the field.

That was a superb effort by the Bears centre forward.

- Do you have one of those for me or is it forbidden?

- [Announcer] I haven't heard yet what happened to Reagen

But his team could surely do with him now.

(Turner groans)

- Shut up.

- Good work.

- Boy, am I glad to see you.

- Yeah well you save that for later,

You better get back to the game.

You'll find Jackie outside in the lane with a car,

And get the police here as soon as you can.

- Right.

- Now where's our little Nicky boy.

- [Announcer] There goes the whistle.

- Hello there.

- You're playing in a football game remember.

- Okay, let's go.

(car engine roaring)

(crowd shouting on TV)

- Hello Nick.

Oh I don't think you need to get up,

Let's just all sit quietly and watch the game shall we.

Should be very interesting from now on.

- Balls back near the centre circle now,

and the Oldchester right half goes for it

but the Bears man tackles him.

Put's a long high pass onto his right winger,

comes right back across the field though

and Thomas just manages to keep it in play there

With an overhead kick.

Carter passes onto it, but he fails to hold it,

And now Davis gets the ball.

And the score is still Bearhampton two, Oldchester one.

(car engine roaring)

(crowd groaning)

The Bears right half passes up into his outside right,

takes it up the wing, but Train the Oldchester left back

relieves him of the ball,

Sends it up into the centre circle.

There's no one there to start the attack off,

And Kent kicks back into the Oldchester half.

Back it comes into Bears pass right through

To right half Stevens.

Stevens sends the ball right up in the Bears area,

but it's a poor effort and goes behind harmlessly

for a goal kick.

- [Man] Reagen's back!

- Well Oldchester just don't seem to be able

to get going at all and I still haven't heard

Why Reagen is off the field.

Wait a minute, there is Reagen.

Yes, he's running off the touchline now

Trying to attract the referees attention.

Yes, Bob Reagen having been missing for the last

30 minutes has come back at last.

Meanwhile the ball has just run into touch

On my right, just below the end stand.

The Bears left half takes a throw in,

Up the wing to his inside left.

But Reagen beats him to the ball

And passes to right half Stevens.

He dribbles up field, passes to Thomas.

Thomas crosses to Carter on the edge of the box,

he beats his man but oh what a feeble shot,

And the Bears goalie easily clears that one.

Wally Kent traps the ball and passes to Lloyd,

Who pushes it through to Peters.

He puts a long pass over to the right wing

Where King is cutting in fast.

He's tackled by the Bears right back,

The ball comes over to Thomas on the wing.

He fumbles it, and Tony West kicks it forward.

But Davis is too slow, and the United right back

beats him too it.

And now there's a scuffle going on,

Right down in front of the stand here.

(drowned out by shouting) manages to kick the ball

up the field where Banes has crossed over

to cover his right back.

He sends a long ball, right the way down field,

Where it's beautifully taken by the Oldchester inside right.

(crowd cheers)

Mike Collins, the United manager

who's sitting here on my left he's just going crazy

with joy, well that certainly was a beautiful

Goal by Reagen, that makes it two all.

Now anything can happen.

Bearhampton kick off but United right half

Has got the ball and he's pushed it through to Baker.

Baker takes the ball, just outside the area,

Passes across to Carter, who's tackled.

The ball goes loose.

(crowd groans)

Well that was bad luck, Reagen very nearly

got a hat trick there to put his side ahead

for the first time in this game.

But the left back came across and pushed the ball

right out to the touchline.

Smith crosses it back into the penalty area again,

And there's another close shave for the Bears.

(crowd shouting)

And now Farrow is placing the ball for the goal kick.

He kicks right up to the halfway line

Where Parsons passes to his inside right.

Hill intercepts neatly, pushes the ball through to Baker.

He's too slow, and Kent gets it for the Bears

And slips it through to inside left Peters.

- [Man] Come on the blues.

- Reagen's got a terrific chance here,

He's only got the centre half to beat.

(crowd groans)

(whistle blows)

That certainly looked like a trip to me.

Yes Reagen's still sitting on the ground

And it's a penalty with only a few seconds left to go.

- What's happened, what's going on?

- You see Bearhampton's fouled

And the ref's awarding a penalty.

Reagen's taking it now.

- Well the crowd know how much depends on this,

And you can almost hear the proverbial pin drop.

(crowd cheers)

And there goes the final whistle, what a finish.

The crowd have gone mad here.

They're rushing over to the touchlines.

The players are congratulating each other,

and the United skipper, Bob Reagen as well,

they're been carried shoulder high

By their team mates off the field.

What an afternoon for Oldchester.

Well Mike Collins down there, he must be

a very happy man indeed because this victory

over a top notch first division side

has certainly improved Oldchester's chances

Of being elected to the third division.

- Do you think they'll get into the third division Nick?

- He doesn't think, he only talks.

- You know what I admire most about you

is your loyalty.

- I know, I don't seem to have very much of it, do ll.

But I never meant any real harm,

I was just weak and stupid.

Tony, you must believe me.

- Oh yeah, anything you say.

- It's true, I didn't know they were going

To do this to Bob, honestly, I didn't.

I would never have let them.

I used to love Bob once, in a way.

I loved you too Tony, maybe I still do, I don't know.

But with Nick I just wanted the money.

I've always needed money Tony, you know that.

Now it seems that it doesn't matter so much.

- You don't need to worry with 5000 pounds in your pocket.

- I don't want that, he can keep it.

- You know I think I ought to take you in hand.

- Would you Tony?

(car engine roaring) (tyres squealing)

- That's the police.

Quick, catch.

You get into trouble if you're caught

with one of those things,

I haven't got a permit. - But...

- Thank God you've come officer, there they are.

- Are you all right sir?

- Oh yes, perfectly all right now thank you.

So's the lady.

(bright music)

- [Bob] So Oldchester went back to normal

and during the following months, my teammates,

who were carrying on with their jobs

never lost hope that the good news would one day

Come through from the football league.

Despite the beating we took in the fifth round

of the Cup.

I was given what Mike called a retaining job

in the garage, and one day I was working

on a customers car.

- Wonderful news.

- Aye it is, she's got him at last.

- The letter I've been waiting for

From the Football Association.

- Hey, she's got who?

- Well who else would it be but Mr McReagen.

- Who's got him? - Jackie.

- That's it.

Won't be long now.

(Jackie screams)

Take it easy.

You need somebody to look after you.

- You mean somebody who's not

Pulling me off boxes all the time.

- Hey Jackie, I guess it's too late huh.

You wouldn't consider me for the job would you?

- You never were very good at guessing.

- Look at this, the letter I've been waiting for.

We're practically in the third division.

- Nice work Mike, I'm very glad.

- But he wants a transfer.

- He wants what?

I told you we're practically in the third division,

And all you can say is that you want a transfer.

- Mike, it looks like Jackie signed me up.

Maybe she'll let me play for you now and then,

what do you say?

- What do I say?

You've made my day.

But on one condition only,

That you arrange the honeymoon in the cricket season.

(laughs)

- When does the cricket season begin?

So ends the story of our

Small town

(bright music)