My dad was on short time in the early 70s and couldn’t afford to take his football-mad son to a football match. Fortunately, my best mate and his dad were regulars at City. They took me to the first game of the 73/74 season against Birmingham. Sat on the wheel arch in the back of a Servis van with no windows, there was great anticipation during the journey. I remember noticing the huge crowds and my first sight of the stadium was fantastic. We sat in the Platt Lane Stand – purple seats with painted white dividers to identify your seat. I don’t remember the game too much but I know we won. I was hooked and always looked forward to the next games. The season is notorious for our part in United’s relegation (and why not?) but for me it was the start of a long and loving relationship that is a strong as ever today.