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Past Masters

Andy Lockett

Tuesday, February 7th, 2006

1 Leave a comment on verse 1 0 Ghosting, silent killer through to
Round the bewildered keeper – slides
It into the net. An elusive sprite in
Cockerel white – surgical goalgetter,
Who missed out on England’s
Glory day – a luxury, they said.
Workrate too low – never mind the
Numbers; every debut he scored.

2 Leave a comment on verse 2 0 Slim Jim, the keepie-uppie legend
In Saltire blue. Juggled with
The Sassenachs in ’63 and ’67;
A mercurial, mesmeric presence
Who could pass and play in the
Best of company. Beaten only by
Himself – as drinking got there first;
Another gifted talent sacrificed.

3 Leave a comment on verse 3 0 Imperious leader, the captain who
Raised Jules Rimet high. Strode across
Soccer as a Sixites icon, his timing
Immaculate. Perfectionist in the
Tackle, he carried the ball with
An actor’s poise, and stayed loyal
To the Hammers year after year.
Grace under pressure; RIP Mooro.

4 Leave a comment on verse 4 0 The Gentle Giant, il Gigante Buono –
A quiet, calm strength exuding
Charisma; respected and revered
From Leeds to Turin. A creator.
And defender – with equal majesty.
Incomparable temperament, a
Player of integrity – greatness
Itself to the people of Wales.

5 Leave a comment on verse 5 0 Lawman. Cuff clenched, arm raised
In glorious salute to the crowd’s acclaim.
Spontaneous, flashy, the flicked header
Goalwards – the overhead kick finds
The net. Unerring performer, for City,
United – and backheel again. True Scot,
Peerless opportunist in the box – the
King who wore his crown with pride.

© Andy Lockett 2006

Source: http://footballpoets.org/poems/past-masters/