Luton Outlaws - Independent Message Board for Luton Town FC

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2 big 5th Round FA Cup matches have been played today. The first was 53 years ago, in 1973, when we took on Bolton away in front of a crowd of 39556 and won 1-0 with a headed goal from Alan Garner. In those days many of us would go to matches by train on the “Soccer Specials” with the train picking up supporters at Bedford on its way north. On this occasion I recall many on our supporters on the platform that day being dressed in “ Clockwork Orange” outfits.

The other 5th Round FA Cup game occurring today was a replay 38 years ago, in 1988, when we played at home to QPR. An expertly lobbed own goal by Warren Neil gave the Town a 1-0 win.

2 players have been born on this day. The first was George Perkins in 1873 and the last was Hugh Billington in 1916. In season 1938/39 Hugh was to score 28 times for us in 27 games and, although the 2nd World War would take away his best playing years, he ended up scoring an impressive total of 70 goals in 94 appearances for us before he moved to Chelsea in 1948.

Only one player has made his debut for us on this day and that was Barry Silkman in 1979 in a 2-1 home win against Blackburn Rovers, whilst on loan from Plymouth. I recall being very impressed with his performance that day but, as it turned out, he was only to make a further 2 appearances before returning to his parent club.