This Is How It Feels, An English Football Miracle
Written by Mike Keegan, Published by Reach Sport 2021
I don’t usually read autobiographies or biographies but I picked this book up and found that it was not either of these, but a brilliantly written book by Mike Keegan, a long term fan of Oldham Athletic about the arrival of Joe Royale at the club on a lorry and the fairy tale journey of a team that was down and out financially and on the pitch, to slowly rise to the top division in England and appearances at Wembley.
It is not just a football book but a social commentary of the despair of northern towns/cities fighting against the industrial ravages of the 80s and 90s. The town had lost much of its faith in the football club too, but Joe Royale, his team and the overall management team ignite their passion in the club and lift the spirits of the town in general.
I had forgotten this story with other personal things taking over my world at the time. Joe Royale, who was an exceptional player, put his whole heart and soul into this journey despite lucrative offers to move elsewhere. If you want a warm feel-good book, this is it.
I have been to Oldham Athletic for a meal cooked by MasterChef winner Simon Wood but never to see a football match, this I will remedy in the new season.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a lift, whether a football fan or not.
N.B. On 1st June 2025, Oldham won the National League Playoff final at Wembley and will play in League 2 of the EFL in the new season.
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