Just reading the 1987/88 end of season report in an old football league yearbook: The end of last season saw both club and fans breathe a collective sigh of relief. First division survival was guaranteed by a 1-1 draw at West Ham on 2nd May. Newcastle were safe with two matches remaining, a remarkable achievement considering that in the middle of March, the team was firmly rooted at the bottom of the division. United lost only three of their last fourteen games, similar to the form of Championship winners Everton. Paul Goddard equalled a long-established club record by scoring in seven consecutive matches, which matched Len White's post war record. While Goddard hit the headlines with his scoring feats, it was a team effort taht saw Newcastle complete the great escape. England under 21 international Neil Macdonald shone as did new signing from Bradford City, Peter Jackson, Paul Gasgoine and of course Peter Beardsley. Many at Newcastle beleive that McDonald, who adapted quickly to his unfamiliar role of right back, will soon break into the full England scene. The loyal Geordie fans never lost faith in their team, backing them throughout a difficult season. The final average league attendance of 24,791 was up 1300 on the previous season when United finished in eleventh place. Admisson prices: East stand ã5.25 Terrace/Paddock ã ã3.50 Season tickets East stand ã145 West stand D Paddock ã75 Ground capacity 36,585 other info from the season (written by me in pencil and different coloured pens on the pages as the season progressed): Signed Archie Gourlay from Morton for ã 40,000 Signed John Robertson from Hearts 18/4/88 for 3/4 million 27th feb - through to the mercantile credit @ wembley Simod cup - lost 2-1 to Bradford lost mercantile credit quarter final john roberston is a (add your own vile expletive here)
Back then I suppose if you'd said to someone that'd anybody would be will to pay 100 quid for a ticket theyd've laughed in your face, or assumed you were talking about the world cup final!
