Kit Story: Liverpool 1989

Article by e-Liverpool Correspondent Alexander Maqdosi
 
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On the last day of the 88/89 season, Liverpool saw Arsenal clinch the title right in front of their noses at Anfield, courtesy of a Michael Thomas goal that came from the last kick of the game. A season that had been overshadowed by the tragic events at Hillsborough, ended with more heartbreak.

The following season provided an opportunity for Liverpool to set things straight immediately. Despite last season’s woes, Liverpool were determined to put their sorrows behind and win back the title from Arsenal. However, the start of the season was mixed with highs and lows.

They started the campaign by winning five out of their first eight games, only to lose four out of the next seven. Another significant loss was that of John Aldridge who after a period of speculation left for siestas and sangria's in San Sebastián and Spanish club Real Sociedad. The return of Ian Rush resulted in the top scorer from the previous season to leave, but it was a worthy exit as he said his farewells to the Anfield faithful in a 9-0 demolition of Crystal Palace at Anfield, scoring a penalty after coming on at the behalf of Peter Beardsley.

Heading in to December and the Christmas period, Liverpool had fellow title contenders Aston Villa and Chelsea, and the up-and-coming Manchester United to play, among others. Sitting top of the table due only to goal difference ahead of Arsenal and Villa, those were games were of vital importance.

Liverpool ended up thrashing Chelsea away winning 5-2, and drawing Villa and United to get a four point cushion for the title. Although Villa managed to erase the gap and get level on points with Liverpool again, the Reds retained their first spot and ultimately secured their 18th title with two games to spare against QPR at home on the 28th of April.

Liverpool had won back the title they so brutally lost a season earlier, and order was resumed on Merseyside as well as in England. What no one predicted at the time was that Liverpool would go 23 years and counting without another First Division title.

April 28th 1990. Two years and 27 days prior to my birth. That’s the last time Liverpool were crowned champions of England. While Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have got a few pictures resembling the one on top more recently, the Reds are still waiting for that moment to return.

After this weekend’s riot against Arsenal, many have raised their voices saying Liverpool might just nip the title. From a realist’s point of view, those chances are very slim, second to none almost. From a fan’s point of view however, miracles can happen and we should pray for one. Because to be fair, Arsenal managed to make the impossible possible back in May 1989, so why shouldn’t Liverpool be able to do it this year?

Liverpool fans and tattoo artists in Merseyside all hope for that miracle to happen, and rightly so. Both parts would undeniably be looking forward to some of the best weeks of their personal or professional lives. Or both.

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