World Cup 1966: We were there!

Photo: Vincent Brown

Roy Kenworthy and his 1966 World Cup memories

ATHLETIC fan Roy Kenworthy has revealed how found himself in the company of football legends at the 1966 World Cup final.

The final saw England lift their only World Cup to date, beating West Germany 4-2 at Wembley in front of almost 100,000 spectators.

Now on the eve of that never-to-be-forgotten success, Royton-based Roy recalled how the tournament's nine-goal top scorer watched events unfold just feet away from him at the famous old stadium.

He said: "Eusebio was sat behind me. It was just unbelievable to see him crying for joy or sorrow during the final because Portugal were beaten by England the week before."

Eusebio, one of the star's of the tournament, scored as England overcame Portugal 2-1 in the semi-final.

However, it wasn't just Eusebio sitting close by, as Roy added: "George Best was also sat behind us. It was amazing."

Best famously played for Manchester United, and it was the Old Trafford club's doctor who got Roy a ticket for the final.

On the result, he added: "It was brilliant, I couldn't believe it, to come back and win it. I thought it would be a really tight game." Around such famous company meant Roy was bound to have a good view of the action from his seat adjacent to the pitch.

However, when asked whether England's infamous third goal scored by Geoff Hurst had crossed the line or not, he said: "Yes, at the time we thought it did, but we didn't know for sure."

"But yes, I know now it did cross the line."

Although there were a number of famous players in the England side, Roy admired the unity more than anything in that side.

"There was no-one in particular that stood out," he explained. "They were all good because they played as a team."

After the game, Roy opted to celebrate the victory in more familiar surroundings.

He said: "We came back to the old Ivy Leaf club in Chadderton.

"We were there until one in the morning and had quite a bit to drink..."