Willie Groves & THE FA CUP: 1890/1 Season Review

This episode of Reports from Arbroath delves into the remarkable story of Willie Groves, the first £100 footballer, and the 1890-91 FA Cup. Jim Troughton shares his family's connection to Groves and discusses the historical significance of the FA Cup matches, including the dramatic events surrounding the Darwin vs. Kidderminster match and West Bromwich Albion's journey through the tournament. The conversation also touches on the tragic end of Groves' life and the precarious nature of professional sports during that era.

Takeaways

  • Willie Groves was a Scottish international footballer.

  • He became the world's first £100 footballer in 1893.

  • Groves had a remarkable journey from Scotland to England.

  • The 1890-91 FA Cup featured many dramatic matches.

  • Darwin vs. Kidderminster ended in a historic 13-0 defeat.

  • West Bromwich Albion had a strong showing in the FA Cup.

  • Groves played a key role in Albion's success.

  • His career was cut short by tuberculosis.

  • Groves died in penury at a young age.

  • The legacy of sportsmen in that era was often precarious.

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