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RTG Sunderland Message Boards
Reading the posts from the "Is Leeds a derby" thread, I took the time to read the excellent Roker Report article shared by Hank Williams (cheers mate it was a splendid read!) regarding the somewhat bitter rivalry (in the sixties at least) between Leeds and SAFC. One of the biggest reasons for the bad feeling between the clubs was the shocking "tackle" (?!?!) on Willie McPheat by Bobby Collins. Now Collins came to Everton from Glasgow Celtic in 1958. He stood all of 5'4" and wore size four boots! The guy was idolised by Evertonians, a pocket dynamo and a "general". In Glasgow he got the nickname "The Wee Barra'"
In the four years that he was with us, I have no recollection of him being a "dirty" player..... ALL ACTION? Yes! Tough as old boots! For someone of his size he was a wonderful footballer! It broke my heart when he was sold to Leeds in 1962, he was our skipper and a dynamic little player.
The next time I saw the wee man he was captaining Leeds United at Elland Road against Everton in a 4th round FA Cup tie. The way that he, Bremner and Giles were "putting themselves about" took me aback! We had a couple of (ahem) "dubious characters" Tony Kay, Roy Vernon and Jimmy Gabriel........ but these Leeds blokes were NASTY! I didnt recognize Bobby Collins from the player I loved so much!
I was there in November 1964 for the infamous "Battle of Goodison" between Leeds United and Everton. It was a bloody disgrace! BOTH sides were ordered from the field after some of the most violent assaults by fellow-professionals on each other! HEY! we played our part in it, I'm not holding us up as a beacon of "fairplay"........ But I was an eyewitness to WHO started it all! AND it wasn't US!!!
I often ponder on how Bobby Collins became such a "sniper" once he signed for Leeds, The influence of Revie? The "culture" at the joint? Watch the 1965 FA Cup Final and you'll see Collins throw himself at Liverpool left back Gerry Byrne, this resulted in Gerry breaking his collar bone! Yet he played on for the 90 minutes and extra time, laying on the cross for winning goal by Ian St John! KARMA!!!
I personally, detest the "Leeds culture" I have nothing but contempt for Revie, who in my opinion was an inferior manager to Harry Catterick. Say what you like about Harry, regarding his somewhat dour manner, the bloke produced Everton sides in the 1960s that played super football! I'm just saddened to see one of my idols as a kid, become a cynical and dirty little twat! I guess thats the "Leeds effect".................................................................................................................. Other folk may disagree of course!