In the Shadow of Benbulben: Dixie Dean at Sligo Rovers

In January 1939, William Ralph "Dixie" Dean, a former Everton and England legend, was asked to find a goalscorer for Sligo Rovers in Ireland. Unable to locate candidates willing to make the move, he decided to answer Sligo's call himself. This led to an unexpected and uplifting chapter in his football career, as he spent four months with the Bit O Red, leaving an indelible mark on the player, the club, and the town.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2022
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

In the early months of 1939, just a few weeks after retiring from football and embarking on a new career as a talent scout, William Ralph "Dixie" Dean, the legendary former Everton and England player, received an unexpected request from the far west of Ireland. The request was from Sligo Rovers, a small, provincial town with a passionate football community. The club was in dire need of a goalscorer to revive their dreams of a successful cup run and secure their very existence. Despite his extensive experience and connections in the football world, Dean found it challenging to locate candidates willing to make the cross-Irish Sea move. However, he was determined to find a solution.

With a stroke of inspiration, Dean decided to answer Sligo's call himself. He embarked on a four-month journey with the Bit O Red, which would leave an indelible mark on the player, the club, and the town. In the Shadow of Benbulben is a captivating romantic tale that intertwines divine intervention, uncanny timing, and dramatic moments both on and off the pitch. It tells the story of Dean's four-month stint with Sligo Rovers, a period that would forever shape his football career and leave an enduring legacy.

Upon arriving in Sligo, Dean was greeted with warm hospitality and embraced by the passionate supporters of the club. He quickly integrated into the team, forming strong bonds with his teammates and the local community. His presence on the pitch was a source of inspiration for the players, and his skill and determination helped the team achieve remarkable results.

During his time with Sligo Rovers, Dean scored numerous goals and played a pivotal role in their cup run. His performances on the field were nothing short of extraordinary, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Off the pitch, he was actively involved in community events and initiatives, using his platform to promote football and inspire young people in the town.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Dean's story is the impact he had on the club and the town. Sligo Rovers had been struggling financially, and the arrival of Dean brought a renewed sense of hope and optimism. His presence attracted new supporters to the club, and the team's performances on the pitch improved significantly. The town also benefited from the boost in tourism and local pride that came with the team's success.

In conclusion, In the Shadow of Benbulben is a captivating romantic tale that explores the unlikely journey of William Ralph "Dixie" Dean to Sligo Rovers in 1939. It tells the story of divine intervention, uncanny timing, and drama on and off the pitch. Through his four-month stint with the Bit O Red, Dean not only helped the club achieve success but also left an indelible mark on the player, the club, and the town. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate people around the world, reminding us that football has the power to bring people together and make a positive impact on society.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801501026