Albert Burrows
92 year old Albert has to be in the running for the oldest surviving Montagu Cup finalist. He played in the 1945 final which his team, Broomhill, lost to the bizarre "next corner wins" rule in extra time.
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In the semi-final Broomhill's match against Denaby Rovers was filmed by the British Council. A one-minute clip of the footage can be seen using this link. Albert recalled that ex- England star, Eric Brook, was drafted in to give the teams mock instructions for the cameras.
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A couple of months later, Albert, played a first team match for Halifax Town.
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Albert remembers that the Montagu Cup final of 1945 was played on Wath Athletic's ground and that the all important corner was conceded at the bowling green end. Due to the war, there were no medals presented - instead, Albert remembers receiving a "2 & 6 pence" saving stamp. He is unsure what the "winners" received!
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The Broomhill team struggled to fund shirts due to rationing. An appeal to the Broomhill residents for their "clothing coupons" was almost enough - just one shirt short.
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The team had to settle for dark blue shirts due to supply shortages in the war.
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The dark blue clashed too much with the referees, so 75 year-old Mrs. Bradley had to sew white V's on the shirts.
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Poor Albert Sage had to find his own blue shirt along with a bandage to help with a makeshift V.
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Note the one thicker V on the team photo.
Albert always sits in the same place on team photos
Albert spent all his working life underground at Wombwell Main and Darfield Main colliery.
Albert's appearance for Halifax Town was as a guest player from Huddersfield Town. He trained with Barnsley FC before signing for Boston United. More locally, he played for Miners United and Mitchell & Darfield. Albert went on to become a referee.
Miners United : Albert seated far left
Miners United : Albert seated far left
20th October 1945. The following week is a lengthy match report. Albert is mentioned towards the end.
Thanks to Dave Lee (Arthur's neighbour) and Jennifer (Albert's daughter) for their help with this page.