A really interesting story if you've got a few minutes... please log in to view this image It is not uncommon for the legacy or importance of an individual to be exaggerated once martyrdom sets in. In the case of Matthias Sindelar though, this is not so. The adoration and regard surrounding the man in Austria was so high that his controversial and premature death at the age of 35 did not alter the public perception of him. Sindelar was quite possibly the greatest of all the pre-war players, or at least the most important. Nicknamed ‘Der Papierene’ or ‘the Paper-man’ due to his slight build, Sindelar did not need power, for he had more grace, poise and technique than any other player on the planet throughout the 1920’s and 30’s. Sindelar had one great foe throughout his career; and that was fascism, the Italian fascists stripped him of his chance of World Cup glory and many believe the German fascists stripped him of his life. Full story - http://ahalftimereport.com/2015/07/17/matthias-sindelar-a-lifelong-battle-with-fascism/
I liked this bit: QUOTE: As well as a number of poor decisions, the Swedish referee, Ivan Eklind, even intercepted and headed clear a cross-field ball by Austria during the game. Italy won 1-0 and Austria were, controversially, eliminated. The referees of Italy’s Quarter-Final, Semi-Final and Final games were all dismissed when they returned to their native countries. QUOTE: Very, very interesting read and highly recommended to those who haven't read it yet.
Can we remove this politically motivated thread? If someone had posted one about someone suffering at the hands of a left wing government you would have already locked it.
It's a historic piece, they're always allowed and you repeating that accusation all the time is really tedious.
I thought it was a well considered piece that told the tragic story of a footballing spark being snuffed out by people for who form meant more than function and refused to put football first. It may have one or two parallels with our current position.
Don't think England entered the 1938 World Cup but if they'd held them in 42 or 46 without WW2 would we have been in with a chance of winning it and would Raich Carter have played? Were we robbed again by Germany?
And the Italians were cheating again. No surprise. Have they ever won anything fairly. A good read. Where is Bummers anyway?
