The Pioneers

Podcast: Blackburn Olympic, the first working-class FA Cup winners

Our recreation of Athletic News’ headline of Olympic’s FA Cup triumph

Have you been watching The English Game on Netflix? You’ll note a team called ‘Blackburn’ wins the FA Cup from the snooty Old Etonians. But what’s the real history of the first working-class, northern English team to win the FA Cup?

The story lies in the experience of Blackburn Olympic in 1883. We talk to Oli Scott, who’s researched the club extensively for his final year dissertation at Durham University.

From pre-match away trips to scouting to diagonal balls, learn how Olympic revolutionised football in their short existence and changed the game forever. Then, just as quickly as they came, Olympic disappeared. Why?

Listen to find out!

We release a new podcast every Monday, so be sure to subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. We’re on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Player.FM and Anchor. Look for us in Google Podcasts too. We’d really appreciate a rating or view if you like what we’re doing as it helps others discover our podcast.

Chris

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