Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

I was only 16 at the time the FA Cup Final of 1978, but I remember it like it was only yesterday.

Yet how the world had changed since then. It was long before the age of internet, email, mobile phones or digital cameras. All of which we take for granted today.

It had been a memorable cup campaign. I had been to all the matches starting on the chilly terraces of Ninian Park, Cardiff back in January.

Other matches that stick out in my mind were the 2-2 draw down at Bristol Rovers in the snow, the 6-1 victory against Millwall when, due to crowd violence, we were forced to leave the ground, missing 3 of the goals otherwise we would have risked being "eaten" in the lion's den!

Then of course the unforgettable semi-final with Brian Talbot's bandaged head and the moment we knew we would be going to Wembley!

Cup final day

The day started grey and dull but nothing could dampen our spirits as we boarded one of the many coaches leaving Portman Road. The convoy snaked its way down the A12 towards Wembley.

We arrived in good time and were in like a shot when the gates opened. We managed to get good places at the front of the east upper standing enclosure right behind the TV cameras.

Sandra and friend holding banner, 1978

We were soon showing our full support for our favourite team, singing away and waving my home-made banner which read Mariner leaves Arsenal shipwrecked. I still have it today.

The closer it got to kick-off, the more electric the atmosphere became.

Then the match got underway, the weather cleared up and the sun came out! Ipswich were in top form and it soon became obvious that they were by far the better side and it was so frustrating to see the ball hit the woodwork several times.

BUT then came that magical moment in the 77 minute - YES!!! It had happened at last! The whole Ipswich end erupted.

The TV cameras swung around and there we were, caught in the picture, screaming our heads off! It was the most fantastic feeling ever.

Nothing has ever beaten that moment. Then came the last nail-biting 15 minutes, terrified that by some quirk of fate Arsenal would equalise.

The final whistle, Mick Mills receiving the cup and the lap of honour in the glorious sunshine. It was all so perfect.

Nostalgia at fever pitch

We sang all the way back to Ipswich and what really sticks in my memory is that every bridge over the A12 was a sea of blue and white waving supporters. Once back in Ipswich we went to the town centre to savour the moment.

Sandra holding banner 2008

It was wonderful to see everybody greeting and hugging each other. It was like one big happy family.

The following day we were down at the Cornhill for the homecoming. It was one of the most exciting weekends East Anglia had ever seen.

Winning the FA Cup was the victory Ipswich needed. It brought the community together as a whole, put the town on the map and emphasised the fact that Ipswich Town had actually been a strong side for many years and not just for one day.

Thank you so much Ipswich Town for that unforgettable day and all those wonderful memories.