Paul Stallebrass
Given that 2019 was the year that both my father and wife died one might argue that highlights would be few and far between. Football was an escape from the humdrum of daily life, thankfully the latter stages of Tina’s and dad’s illnesses coincided with an upturn in City’s form.
The arrival of a couple of school teachers, coupled with a team now performing at a level not seen for over a decade, meant that football was a pleasant not painful release.
The one game that sticks out as the main highlight of the year was the away trip to MK Dons. A side hot on our heels, sitting second in the table, surely a draw would be a great result, a win would see the Imps champions-elect.
Over 5,000 Imps travelled down the M1 to a stadium more suited to Championship or Premier League football rather than the sparse crowds of League Two. With a 30,000 capacity Stadium MK, the Dons allowed a generous allocation of tickets, the 5,000 Imps at their vocal best turned the atmosphere into that of a home game.
A 1st half penalty from Big John gave the Imps something to hold onto at halftime, surely only a collapse of previously unseen proportions would see City throw away a win, even a draw would see the home side kept at arms reach. Everything was set up perfectly for a second half that would live long in the memory, MK Dons pressed, City defended stoically, keeping as DC used to say on method and process orientated.
Then it happened, well to be precise that goal happened. Bruno in full flight, a second goal, and the title decided in an instant, and at the home of our closest rivals. 5,000 Imps went wild, I have no doubt anyone tuning in to the radio commentary would have hear the roar not just through their radios, but through any open window or door at their homes.
In a year of many personal lows, this was the defining highlight of my 2019.