Ernie Machin
Maurice in the Sky Blue
Fifty-five years ago on March 16, 1968, a record 47,111 people flocked to Highfield Road to see the arrival of the highly decorated Manchester United team, the Division One winners. Since the Sky Blues’ 4-0 thrashing at Old Trafford in late October turned out to be their worst loss of the year, they knew this would be a difficult match.
The Sky Blues had their first (and most memorable) season in the top division after Noel Cantwell succeeded the late Jimmy Hill in the gaffer’s chair earlier in the year.
“Our Bill” feels badly about Nobby Stiles.
Given the significant damage caused by fire to the main stand the week before, the number of people we were able to accommodate on this particular day—our second-largest ever—was an incredible accomplishment. Due to the club’s loss of records, trophies, and equipment during the fire, City changed their gameday uniform. We are happy to say that every member of this team went on to join CCFPA later on!
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On the day of the transfer deadline, Ernie’ Hunt and Chris Cattlin were brought to Highfield Road and made their debuts in this match.
The victory was completed with a header from former Red Devil warhorse central defender (the late) Maurice Setters (52 minutes) and a goal in either half from (the late) Ernie Machin (34 minutes). Delighted Sky Blue supporters invaded the pitch after Ernie’s amazing thirty-yard volley! Man Utd’s star turn, George Best, was kept silent for once!
In response to their 2-0 loss and the Red Devils’ removal from the top spot, United said they were jaded following their recent European tour to Poland. Below are most of the match’s important details. Mr. Harry New served as the referee.
Many of the luminaries that were visible on both sides have since passed away, notably the two Sky Blues scores from that day, the third “Ernie” (Hannigan) in the Sky Blue squad, and “warhorse” centre half Maurice.
In the end, Manchester City, United’s bitter rivals in Manchester, defeated United by a two-point difference to win the Champions title. The Sky Blues survived to compete in the top division for a total of 34 consecutive seasons by staying one position above the drop zone in twentieth place.Fulham and Sheffield United endured the humiliation of relegation!
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