Atherton Collieries Make Bold Move to Recreate Historic Upset
As the new season approaches, non-league clubs are getting creative to step up their pre-season preparations. While Premier League teams jet off to exotic destinations for lucrative friendlies, smaller clubs are finding innovative ways to test their mettle against top-notch opponents. Atherton Collieries, a Lancashire-based side, have made a daring move to recreate a historic upset by inviting Saudi Pro League giants Al-Ittihad to a friendly match.
The Colls are no strangers to pulling off major upsets. In 2019, they defeated Al-Ittihad 2-0 in a pre-season friendly, with 700 fans in attendance at the Skuna Stadium. The Saudi side, who boasted a more modest squad at the time, were in Lancashire for a series of friendlies against English clubs Bolton Wanderers, Bury, and Leeds United. Atherton Collieries, then a division higher, took advantage of the opportunity to showcase their skills and secure a memorable victory.
The move is not as random as it seems. The Colls’ official X account took to social media to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the historic win, posting a photo of the match and a cheeky request for a rematch. "It is five years today since we welcomed Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ittihad to the Skuna Stadium, with goals from Matt Grimshaw and Danny O’Brien securing a historic victory for Michael Clegg’s Stripes. Rematch, @ittihad_en?" the post read.
Al-Ittihad, now boasting a star-studded squad featuring 2022 Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, former Chelsea star N’Golo Kante, and ex-Liverpool midfielder Fabinho, has been approached directly by the Colls. While it’s unclear whether the Saudi side will accept the invitation, the prospect of a rematch is certainly tantalizing.
The move is a testament to Atherton Collieries’ determination to push the boundaries and test their skills against the best. With a bit of luck, we might just see a repeat of the historic upset that left fans and players alike in awe.
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