World cup rematch 'disappointing'

An amateur County Durham football team were left underwhelmed by Italian giants Juventus when they travelled to Turin for a "world cup" rematch.

It is 100 years since West Auckland won the first world cup, known as the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy, defending their title two years later against Juventus.

General manager Stuart Alderson said staff at the Serie A club did not seem aware of the match's purpose.

The team, who lost 7-1, were "welcomed" with a bowl of crisps, he said.

West Auckland travelled to Turin by coach with the aid of a £10,000 Football Association donation.

Mr Alderson said: "When we did get there, there was no greeting or anything.

"They told us to be there an hour-and-a-half before kick off. So we made our way up there about two hours before.

"When we got to the gates I don't think those gate men knew who we were or anything. I don't think they knew a thing."

West Auckland players won the first world cup in 1909

He said when he presented the Italian club with a commemorative plate, they seemed surprised and hurriedly found a Juventus plaque, containing no reference to West Auckland, and four books about flowers.

"Well, we were really interested in that," said Mr Alderson.

Despite conceding six goals in the first half, the Northern League team changed their tactics and later managed to score.

Team manager Brian Honour said he was "really proud" and that the players left with their heads held high.

In April 1909 a team of miners from West Auckland became the first to lift the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy when they beat Switzerland's FC Winterhour 2-0.

Two years later they defended their title beating Juventus 6-1.

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