The Old Den was the biggest asset in my view for hundreds of reasons related to atmosphere and authenticity. It might even be true to say that modern Millwall fans are a tribute act to the original Millwall fans of old. However in the world of authenticity Millwall are miles ahead of Crystal Palace, a club for whom the word plastic could’ve been invented. Nothing they ever do can compensate for Selhurst Park or Croydon. As for West Ham, well they have outdone any perceived betrayal Millwall might have visited on their fans, by leaving the lovely Upton Park for the insipid experience of the people-owned Olympic Stadium…now that’s a betrayal. And as Charlton fans we know all about ground change betrayal, we’re experts on it, which is why The Valley is so important to us and why we fought so hard for it.
As far as new grounds go, the ‘new’ Den is a close to an old school ground you can get really. Functional & no thrills. Four distinct sides, so no bowl. Looks like an Eastern bloc ground. It’s close to pitch and is steep, so creates a good & ‘up close’ atmosphere .
They had to leave the Old Den, as the cost to bring it up to standard post Taylor report would have been huge. And tbf, they only lost one league game in the first 18 months at the new ground, so obviously the fans play an important part in that hostile environment. I’ve to some really spicy atmospheres at that new ground & can even remember a game where Joe Royle saying he was glad his Man City side didn’t get a winner, as he didn’t think they’d get out of the place alive!
West Ham really sold out their heritage, I agree. I loved Upton Park. An amazing ground imo.
I can understand the argument about the cost to improve the Old Den, but I honestly believe the very best atmosphere at the new place isn’t as good as the average atmosphere at the old one. Yeah, functional and no frills, but I don’t think that insta design is any good, and nothing like as much fun (yes I did use that word) as it used to be.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
What a load of bollocks. Michael Calvin (whoever he is) is seriously comparing Millwall vs Huddersfield to that hahaha! Behave....
Senegal Fields/The New London Stadium can have a good atmosphere, but we've mostly drowned out the home crowd in recent years until our inevitable collapse on the pitch!
The Old Den was the biggest asset in my view for hundreds of reasons related to atmosphere and authenticity. It might even be true to say that modern Millwall fans are a tribute act to the original Millwall fans of old. However in the world of authenticity Millwall are miles ahead of Crystal Palace, a club for whom the word plastic could’ve been invented. Nothing they ever do can compensate for Selhurst Park or Croydon. As for West Ham, well they have outdone any perceived betrayal Millwall might have visited on their fans, by leaving the lovely Upton Park for the insipid experience of the people-owned Olympic Stadium…now that’s a betrayal. And as Charlton fans we know all about ground change betrayal, we’re experts on it, which is why The Valley is so important to us and why we fought so hard for it.
As far as new grounds go, the ‘new’ Den is a close to an old school ground you can get really. Functional & no thrills. Four distinct sides, so no bowl. Looks like an Eastern bloc ground. It’s close to pitch and is steep, so creates a good & ‘up close’ atmosphere .
They had to leave the Old Den, as the cost to bring it up to standard post Taylor report would have been huge. And tbf, they only lost one league game in the first 18 months at the new ground, so obviously the fans play an important part in that hostile environment. I’ve to some really spicy atmospheres at that new ground & can even remember a game where Joe Royle saying he was glad his Man City side didn’t get a winner, as he didn’t think they’d get out of the place alive!
West Ham really sold out their heritage, I agree. I loved Upton Park. An amazing ground imo.
I can understand the argument about the cost to improve the Old Den, but I honestly believe the very best atmosphere at the new place isn’t as good as the average atmosphere at the old one. Yeah, functional and no frills, but I don’t think that insta design is any good, and nothing like as much fun (yes I did use that word) as it used to be.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
What a load of bollocks. Michael Calvin (whoever he is) is seriously comparing Millwall vs Huddersfield to that hahaha! Behave....
Senegal Fields/The New London Stadium can have a good atmosphere, but we've mostly drowned out the home crowd in recent years until our inevitable collapse on the pitch!
As discussed, you can’t really compare a Millwall Charlton atmosphere with one of their grudge matches or play-off games. They see it as a nice local derby.
Anyway, onto something more interesting, if you’ve not heard of Micheal Calvin, I can really recommend his books. Some great reads for football and sports fans.
The Old Den was the biggest asset in my view for hundreds of reasons related to atmosphere and authenticity. It might even be true to say that modern Millwall fans are a tribute act to the original Millwall fans of old. However in the world of authenticity Millwall are miles ahead of Crystal Palace, a club for whom the word plastic could’ve been invented. Nothing they ever do can compensate for Selhurst Park or Croydon. As for West Ham, well they have outdone any perceived betrayal Millwall might have visited on their fans, by leaving the lovely Upton Park for the insipid experience of the people-owned Olympic Stadium…now that’s a betrayal. And as Charlton fans we know all about ground change betrayal, we’re experts on it, which is why The Valley is so important to us and why we fought so hard for it.
As far as new grounds go, the ‘new’ Den is a close to an old school ground you can get really. Functional & no thrills. Four distinct sides, so no bowl. Looks like an Eastern bloc ground. It’s close to pitch and is steep, so creates a good & ‘up close’ atmosphere .
They had to leave the Old Den, as the cost to bring it up to standard post Taylor report would have been huge. And tbf, they only lost one league game in the first 18 months at the new ground, so obviously the fans play an important part in that hostile environment. I’ve to some really spicy atmospheres at that new ground & can even remember a game where Joe Royle saying he was glad his Man City side didn’t get a winner, as he didn’t think they’d get out of the place alive!
West Ham really sold out their heritage, I agree. I loved Upton Park. An amazing ground imo.
I can understand the argument about the cost to improve the Old Den, but I honestly believe the very best atmosphere at the new place isn’t as good as the average atmosphere at the old one. Yeah, functional and no frills, but I don’t think that insta design is any good, and nothing like as much fun (yes I did use that word) as it used to be.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
What a load of bollocks. Michael Calvin (whoever he is) is seriously comparing Millwall vs Huddersfield to that hahaha! Behave....
Senegal Fields/The New London Stadium can have a good atmosphere, but we've mostly drowned out the home crowd in recent years until our inevitable collapse on the pitch!
Yeah because I just made it up didn’t I. When/if I can be bothered to dig the book out I’ll share it on here.
I’m currently reading the autobiography of Graham Tutt. His hero was Alex Stepney the Millwall keeper who gave the 10 year old Graham advice which stayed with him throughout his career.
I took a DNA test a couple of years ago, and to my eternal shame it seems I am related to Attila the Hun, Adolf Hitler and Jack the Ripper. Imagine my relief though when they could confirm that there were no traces of Millwall in my genome.
So at least, the Spanners have only ever fucked with my football team.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
I’ve just had a look through your account. Created your profile less than a month ago, numerous posts about Millwall in that time, and even claimed we’d lose to Wycombe 1-0 with a late Onyedinma (ex Millwall) winner.
Starting to doubt if you’re a Charlton fan at all mate haha
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
I’ve just had a look through your account. Created your profile less than a month ago, numerous posts about Millwall in that time, and even claimed we’d lose to Wycombe 1-0 with a late Onyedinma (ex Millwall) winner.
Starting to doubt if you’re a Charlton fan at all mate haha
Ha. Thankfully, I am. But it was a close run thing!
Been lurking on here for years, and got back into habitat of going to games again after not bothering for few years & so signed up, hence name ‘Woodwork’, as feel like a glory hunter now!
Re Millwall. They get mentioned a fair bit on here, and as an Addick living amongst a lot of Lions, I feel qualified to weigh in! Especially as my hate is reserved for Palace!
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
Funny you should mention Wolves, I'd sometimes go to Millwall with Dad if Charlton were away when I was a young teenager and a match against Wolves stays with me. It was 1967 and Wolves needed a point to win promotion.
Millwall were one up and then Wolves were awarded an 89th minute penalty which they managed to miss by a country mile. The crowd never really had time to simmer down though as Derek Dougan slotted one home with seconds remaining. Jeez did that crowd turn ugly - a baying mob. A Millwall fan disguised in a Wolves scarf ran on to the pitch and kicked Dougan in the balls. Cold Blow Lane was an intimidating place - no doubt about that.
Here is an account of a Wolves fan on the day:-
We started to move towards the exits, but the 'boot-boys' had already got to work, amply aided by the middle-aged dockers. It's the first time I have taken my scarf off and hid it. Outside the ground, as we tried to get back to the coaches, there were Wolves fans running on the rooves of parked cars to get away from the howling mobs of Millwall fans. Coaches bricked and spat on. I've never been so scared in my life. This is not, I hasten to add, a glorification of violence, but how it was.
Anyway, from my point of view it made for a memorable afternoon out. You have to remember this was 1967. I'm sure if you could suddenly beam yourself back to that time you'd find a very grey looking London with absolutely fuck all to do. A chance to see a football game (even Millwall) ranked much higher than sitting indoors playing with my Meccano set (not a euphemism!)
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
Funny you should mention Wolves, I'd sometimes go to Millwall with Dad if Charlton were away when I was a young teenager and a match against Wolves stays with me. It was 1967 and Wolves needed a point to win promotion.
Millwall were one up and then Wolves were awarded an 89th minute penalty which they managed to miss by a country mile. The crowd never really had time to simmer down though as Derek Dougan slotted one home with seconds remaining. Jeez did that crowd turn ugly - a baying mob. A Millwall fan disguised in a Wolves scarf ran on to the pitch and kicked Dougan in the balls. Cold Blow Lane was an intimidating place - no doubt about that.
Here is an account of a Wolves fan on the day:-
We started to move towards the exits, but the 'boot-boys' had already got to work, amply aided by the middle-aged dockers. It's the first time I have taken my scarf off and hid it. Outside the ground, as we tried to get back to the coaches, there were Wolves fans running on the rooves of parked cars to get away from the howling mobs of Millwall fans. Coaches bricked and spat on. I've never been so scared in my life. This is not, I hasten to add, a glorification of violence, but how it was.
Anyway, from my point of view it made for a memorable afternoon out. You have to remember this was 1967. I'm sure if you could suddenly beam yourself back to that time you'd find a very grey looking London with absolutely fuck all to do. A chance to see a football game (even Millwall) ranked much higher than sitting indoors playing with my Meccano set (not a euphemism!)
So instead of playing with your small spanner indoors you went to the den to be surrounded by big spanners
I must be one of the best qualified Charlton fans to talk about this.
My mum is a Millwall fan. All my maternal uncles and cousins are Millwall fans. My maternal grandad is a Millwall fan. My great grandad worked at the docks and was a Millwall fan when they reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals and earnt their nickname 'Lions of the South' by beating the mighty Aston Villa team of the late Victorian era. My other half is a Millwall fan.
My dad is a Charlton fan.
I was taken to The Valley first. But have been to many Millwall games over the years.
Millwall fans do not 'hate' Charlton. They see it as their biggest local derby. Because it is. I have been to Millwall Charlton games at The Den in the home end. It is that kind of derby. There was no hate. Just a desire to beat us. I can say that, because I have been along to Millwall v West Ham, Leeds, Birmingham City, Chelsea and Everton games. That was hate filled. I have even been to Millwall v Palace and that isn't seen as big as a local derby as us, it does have more spite to it than our games. Maybe because it more a dockers/proper SE London club v a fake south London, suburban club. Whereas Millwall v Charlton is an actual SE London derby proper. Most of us know Millwall fans, be they family, mates neighbours or work colleagues.
I don't think any of the Millwall fans I personally know ever say it is not a rivalry. They enjoy the rivalry. Why wouldn't they? They hardly ever lose it. In my entire life (45 years) they have only lost to us three times in the league. I was at Selhurst Park when they tonked us 3-0 in first top flight derby match between the two and they treated it as a nice day out, as pretty most of the ground was Millwall fans. But if you go to a Millwall Charlton match as a Charlton fan expecting the infamous Millwall hostility, you will be sadly let down. They just don't see us that way. I've been to normal league games between Millwall and Stoke, Cardiff or Portsmouth, and it is a feistier atmosphere than our games, as both sets of hooligans are out.
Another thing I will say about my Millwall fans is they are not like Palace fans at all. They really do not give a stuff whether we have a bigger ground or have played more top flight football at all. They genuinely do not care about those things. One thing they do care about is us winning the FA Cup. I am often reminded that Millwall are the best giant killers in FA Cup history. This is actual an official fact. No other club has knocked out more higher placed opponents than them. This includes champions of England, FA Cup holders etc. It kills them that they have never won it, despite such a good record for a lower league club (5 Semi Finals & one Final).
I have the same feelings towards them that they do towards us, probably cos I live with them. Ie I really, really want to beat them for bragging rights. But there is no hate. But it is a big local derby. And they would agree.
As a 45 year old you probably haven't 'experienced' millwall. Talk to 70 year old addicks and you'll find out why some really do hate them.
Was Toe to Toe out the back of the ilderton Road and in the Covered End before you were born…. assure you we were not that friendly then. I think you will find Charltons hardcore in that era hated Millwall. An whilst we have developed this family club tag, They, as said elsewhere, are a tribute act of their 1970/80s history.
I find our current “Yoof / Element” support quite cringy. They, are obnoxious foul mouthed, bullying wannabes, who seem to have more arguments with other Charlton fans than anybody else.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
Funny you should mention Wolves, I'd sometimes go to Millwall with Dad if Charlton were away when I was a young teenager and a match against Wolves stays with me. It was 1967 and Wolves needed a point to win promotion.
Millwall were one up and then Wolves were awarded an 89th minute penalty which they managed to miss by a country mile. The crowd never really had time to simmer down though as Derek Dougan slotted one home with seconds remaining. Jeez did that crowd turn ugly - a baying mob. A Millwall fan disguised in a Wolves scarf ran on to the pitch and kicked Dougan in the balls. Cold Blow Lane was an intimidating place - no doubt about that.
Here is an account of a Wolves fan on the day:-
We started to move towards the exits, but the 'boot-boys' had already got to work, amply aided by the middle-aged dockers. It's the first time I have taken my scarf off and hid it. Outside the ground, as we tried to get back to the coaches, there were Wolves fans running on the rooves of parked cars to get away from the howling mobs of Millwall fans. Coaches bricked and spat on. I've never been so scared in my life. This is not, I hasten to add, a glorification of violence, but how it was.
Anyway, from my point of view it made for a memorable afternoon out. You have to remember this was 1967. I'm sure if you could suddenly beam yourself back to that time you'd find a very grey looking London with absolutely fuck all to do. A chance to see a football game (even Millwall) ranked much higher than sitting indoors playing with my Meccano set (not a euphemism!)
So instead of playing with your small spanner indoors you went to the den to be surrounded by big spanners
I worked at Key Glassworks in Cold Blow Lane in the 60's and after a Saturday shift ending at 2pm, and a spot of lunch, would pop along to the old Den to watch the match, as Charlton usually playing away. Remember vividly a referee by the name of Burtenshaw getting a good hiding from a couple of Millwall fans after a loss.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
I must be one of the best qualified Charlton fans to talk about this.
My mum is a Millwall fan. All my maternal uncles and cousins are Millwall fans. My maternal grandad is a Millwall fan. My great grandad worked at the docks and was a Millwall fan when they reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals and earnt their nickname 'Lions of the South' by beating the mighty Aston Villa team of the late Victorian era. My other half is a Millwall fan.
My dad is a Charlton fan.
I was taken to The Valley first. But have been to many Millwall games over the years.
Millwall fans do not 'hate' Charlton. They see it as their biggest local derby. Because it is. I have been to Millwall Charlton games at The Den in the home end. It is that kind of derby. There was no hate. Just a desire to beat us. I can say that, because I have been along to Millwall v West Ham, Leeds, Birmingham City, Chelsea and Everton games. That was hate filled. I have even been to Millwall v Palace and that isn't seen as big as a local derby as us, it does have more spite to it than our games. Maybe because it more a dockers/proper SE London club v a fake south London, suburban club. Whereas Millwall v Charlton is an actual SE London derby proper. Most of us know Millwall fans, be they family, mates neighbours or work colleagues.
I don't think any of the Millwall fans I personally know ever say it is not a rivalry. They enjoy the rivalry. Why wouldn't they? They hardly ever lose it. In my entire life (45 years) they have only lost to us three times in the league. I was at Selhurst Park when they tonked us 3-0 in first top flight derby match between the two and they treated it as a nice day out, as pretty most of the ground was Millwall fans. But if you go to a Millwall Charlton match as a Charlton fan expecting the infamous Millwall hostility, you will be sadly let down. They just don't see us that way. I've been to normal league games between Millwall and Stoke, Cardiff or Portsmouth, and it is a feistier atmosphere than our games, as both sets of hooligans are out.
Another thing I will say about my Millwall fans is they are not like Palace fans at all. They really do not give a stuff whether we have a bigger ground or have played more top flight football at all. They genuinely do not care about those things. One thing they do care about is us winning the FA Cup. I am often reminded that Millwall are the best giant killers in FA Cup history. This is actual an official fact. No other club has knocked out more higher placed opponents than them. This includes champions of England, FA Cup holders etc. It kills them that they have never won it, despite such a good record for a lower league club (5 Semi Finals & one Final).
I have the same feelings towards them that they do towards us, probably cos I live with them. Ie I really, really want to beat them for bragging rights. But there is no hate. But it is a big local derby. And they would agree.
Spot on. Although I’m not sure it ‘kills us’ that we haven’t won the FA cup, it would still be nice if we did lol. But as you say we have a good pedigree in the competition. (Also the first ever third tier team to make the semi final).
You’re spot on about us not giving a stuff about attendances, ground sizes, Premier League etc. Some fans of other clubs, including plenty of your fans, seem obsessed with being portrayed as a big club to other fans. We couldn’t give a monkeys and most of us actually revel in the fact that we punch above our weight. Biggest small club in the world and all that.
I actually know of Milllwall fans who wouldn’t want us to play in the PL and certainly wouldn’t want the ground expanded as they feel it would dilute the support. That’s not my personal opinion but plenty of our fans feel that way.
What would they do then if you reached the playoffs, want to lose ? Nonsense
I must be one of the best qualified Charlton fans to talk about this.
My mum is a Millwall fan. All my maternal uncles and cousins are Millwall fans. My maternal grandad is a Millwall fan. My great grandad worked at the docks and was a Millwall fan when they reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals and earnt their nickname 'Lions of the South' by beating the mighty Aston Villa team of the late Victorian era. My other half is a Millwall fan.
My dad is a Charlton fan.
I was taken to The Valley first. But have been to many Millwall games over the years.
Millwall fans do not 'hate' Charlton. They see it as their biggest local derby. Because it is. I have been to Millwall Charlton games at The Den in the home end. It is that kind of derby. There was no hate. Just a desire to beat us. I can say that, because I have been along to Millwall v West Ham, Leeds, Birmingham City, Chelsea and Everton games. That was hate filled. I have even been to Millwall v Palace and that isn't seen as big as a local derby as us, it does have more spite to it than our games. Maybe because it more a dockers/proper SE London club v a fake south London, suburban club. Whereas Millwall v Charlton is an actual SE London derby proper. Most of us know Millwall fans, be they family, mates neighbours or work colleagues.
I don't think any of the Millwall fans I personally know ever say it is not a rivalry. They enjoy the rivalry. Why wouldn't they? They hardly ever lose it. In my entire life (45 years) they have only lost to us three times in the league. I was at Selhurst Park when they tonked us 3-0 in first top flight derby match between the two and they treated it as a nice day out, as pretty most of the ground was Millwall fans. But if you go to a Millwall Charlton match as a Charlton fan expecting the infamous Millwall hostility, you will be sadly let down. They just don't see us that way. I've been to normal league games between Millwall and Stoke, Cardiff or Portsmouth, and it is a feistier atmosphere than our games, as both sets of hooligans are out.
Another thing I will say about my Millwall fans is they are not like Palace fans at all. They really do not give a stuff whether we have a bigger ground or have played more top flight football at all. They genuinely do not care about those things. One thing they do care about is us winning the FA Cup. I am often reminded that Millwall are the best giant killers in FA Cup history. This is actual an official fact. No other club has knocked out more higher placed opponents than them. This includes champions of England, FA Cup holders etc. It kills them that they have never won it, despite such a good record for a lower league club (5 Semi Finals & one Final).
I have the same feelings towards them that they do towards us, probably cos I live with them. Ie I really, really want to beat them for bragging rights. But there is no hate. But it is a big local derby. And they would agree.
Spot on. Although I’m not sure it ‘kills us’ that we haven’t won the FA cup, it would still be nice if we did lol. But as you say we have a good pedigree in the competition. (Also the first ever third tier team to make the semi final).
You’re spot on about us not giving a stuff about attendances, ground sizes, Premier League etc. Some fans of other clubs, including plenty of your fans, seem obsessed with being portrayed as a big club to other fans. We couldn’t give a monkeys and most of us actually revel in the fact that we punch above our weight. Biggest small club in the world and all that.
I actually know of Milllwall fans who wouldn’t want us to play in the PL and certainly wouldn’t want the ground expanded as they feel it would dilute the support. That’s not my personal opinion but plenty of our fans feel that way.
What would they do then if you reached the playoffs, want to lose ? Nonsense
Honestly, I’ve had this conversation with some of them, and find it utterly bizarre. They are in a minority, but there are some of our fans who wouldn’t want us going up. On my life.
Others say they just want a season or two up there and then come back down before the support changed too much and I sort of get that, although I don’t agree.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Palace hard and loud?! When was that.
No idea - Palace winning means u r now the only club south of the river with no major trophy so u will need to tell us even more how hard you used to be to compensate
I must be one of the best qualified Charlton fans to talk about this.
My mum is a Millwall fan. All my maternal uncles and cousins are Millwall fans. My maternal grandad is a Millwall fan. My great grandad worked at the docks and was a Millwall fan when they reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals and earnt their nickname 'Lions of the South' by beating the mighty Aston Villa team of the late Victorian era. My other half is a Millwall fan.
My dad is a Charlton fan.
I was taken to The Valley first. But have been to many Millwall games over the years.
Millwall fans do not 'hate' Charlton. They see it as their biggest local derby. Because it is. I have been to Millwall Charlton games at The Den in the home end. It is that kind of derby. There was no hate. Just a desire to beat us. I can say that, because I have been along to Millwall v West Ham, Leeds, Birmingham City, Chelsea and Everton games. That was hate filled. I have even been to Millwall v Palace and that isn't seen as big as a local derby as us, it does have more spite to it than our games. Maybe because it more a dockers/proper SE London club v a fake south London, suburban club. Whereas Millwall v Charlton is an actual SE London derby proper. Most of us know Millwall fans, be they family, mates neighbours or work colleagues.
I don't think any of the Millwall fans I personally know ever say it is not a rivalry. They enjoy the rivalry. Why wouldn't they? They hardly ever lose it. In my entire life (45 years) they have only lost to us three times in the league. I was at Selhurst Park when they tonked us 3-0 in first top flight derby match between the two and they treated it as a nice day out, as pretty most of the ground was Millwall fans. But if you go to a Millwall Charlton match as a Charlton fan expecting the infamous Millwall hostility, you will be sadly let down. They just don't see us that way. I've been to normal league games between Millwall and Stoke, Cardiff or Portsmouth, and it is a feistier atmosphere than our games, as both sets of hooligans are out.
Another thing I will say about my Millwall fans is they are not like Palace fans at all. They really do not give a stuff whether we have a bigger ground or have played more top flight football at all. They genuinely do not care about those things. One thing they do care about is us winning the FA Cup. I am often reminded that Millwall are the best giant killers in FA Cup history. This is actual an official fact. No other club has knocked out more higher placed opponents than them. This includes champions of England, FA Cup holders etc. It kills them that they have never won it, despite such a good record for a lower league club (5 Semi Finals & one Final).
I have the same feelings towards them that they do towards us, probably cos I live with them. Ie I really, really want to beat them for bragging rights. But there is no hate. But it is a big local derby. And they would agree.
Spot on. Although I’m not sure it ‘kills us’ that we haven’t won the FA cup, it would still be nice if we did lol. But as you say we have a good pedigree in the competition. (Also the first ever third tier team to make the semi final).
You’re spot on about us not giving a stuff about attendances, ground sizes, Premier League etc. Some fans of other clubs, including plenty of your fans, seem obsessed with being portrayed as a big club to other fans. We couldn’t give a monkeys and most of us actually revel in the fact that we punch above our weight. Biggest small club in the world and all that.
I actually know of Milllwall fans who wouldn’t want us to play in the PL and certainly wouldn’t want the ground expanded as they feel it would dilute the support. That’s not my personal opinion but plenty of our fans feel that way.
What would they do then if you reached the playoffs, want to lose ? Nonsense
Honestly, I’ve had this conversation with some of them, and find it utterly bizarre. They are in a minority, but there are some of our fans who wouldn’t want us going up. On my life.
Others say they just want a season or two up there and then come back down before the support changed too much and I sort of get that, although I don’t agree.
I get the opening paragraph totally.
From a fans view, particularly who go away, it is money draining with the fixtures being changed or in kick off times meaning overnight stays.
However, staying in the money league changes things for the finances of the club, the shitbags from SE25 highlight how it is.
PS @MillwallFan we share each others pain tonight. You're a good lad.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Palace hard and loud?! When was that.
No idea - Palace winning means u r now the only club south of the river with no major trophy so u will need to tell us even more how hard you used to be to compensate
I watched Chelsea Utd last night and to be honest the amount of rolling around, play acting, abusing the ref, VAR and not forgetting the vastly inflated money spent on the "talent" on display I'd be content in Charlton just being a established Championship club for a decade.
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Palace hard and loud?! When was that.
No idea - Palace winning means u r now the only club south of the river with no major trophy so u will need to tell us even more how hard you used to be to compensate
What are you on about you silly old sod?? 😂
where have I been telling you how hard we used to be?? 🤷🏻🤷🏻 that was one of yours, this woodwork fella. Not me 😆
I must be one of the best qualified Charlton fans to talk about this.
My mum is a Millwall fan. All my maternal uncles and cousins are Millwall fans. My maternal grandad is a Millwall fan. My great grandad worked at the docks and was a Millwall fan when they reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals and earnt their nickname 'Lions of the South' by beating the mighty Aston Villa team of the late Victorian era. My other half is a Millwall fan.
My dad is a Charlton fan.
I was taken to The Valley first. But have been to many Millwall games over the years.
Millwall fans do not 'hate' Charlton. They see it as their biggest local derby. Because it is. I have been to Millwall Charlton games at The Den in the home end. It is that kind of derby. There was no hate. Just a desire to beat us. I can say that, because I have been along to Millwall v West Ham, Leeds, Birmingham City, Chelsea and Everton games. That was hate filled. I have even been to Millwall v Palace and that isn't seen as big as a local derby as us, it does have more spite to it than our games. Maybe because it more a dockers/proper SE London club v a fake south London, suburban club. Whereas Millwall v Charlton is an actual SE London derby proper. Most of us know Millwall fans, be they family, mates neighbours or work colleagues.
I don't think any of the Millwall fans I personally know ever say it is not a rivalry. They enjoy the rivalry. Why wouldn't they? They hardly ever lose it. In my entire life (45 years) they have only lost to us three times in the league. I was at Selhurst Park when they tonked us 3-0 in first top flight derby match between the two and they treated it as a nice day out, as pretty most of the ground was Millwall fans. But if you go to a Millwall Charlton match as a Charlton fan expecting the infamous Millwall hostility, you will be sadly let down. They just don't see us that way. I've been to normal league games between Millwall and Stoke, Cardiff or Portsmouth, and it is a feistier atmosphere than our games, as both sets of hooligans are out.
Another thing I will say about my Millwall fans is they are not like Palace fans at all. They really do not give a stuff whether we have a bigger ground or have played more top flight football at all. They genuinely do not care about those things. One thing they do care about is us winning the FA Cup. I am often reminded that Millwall are the best giant killers in FA Cup history. This is actual an official fact. No other club has knocked out more higher placed opponents than them. This includes champions of England, FA Cup holders etc. It kills them that they have never won it, despite such a good record for a lower league club (5 Semi Finals & one Final).
I have the same feelings towards them that they do towards us, probably cos I live with them. Ie I really, really want to beat them for bragging rights. But there is no hate. But it is a big local derby. And they would agree.
Spot on. Although I’m not sure it ‘kills us’ that we haven’t won the FA cup, it would still be nice if we did lol. But as you say we have a good pedigree in the competition. (Also the first ever third tier team to make the semi final).
You’re spot on about us not giving a stuff about attendances, ground sizes, Premier League etc. Some fans of other clubs, including plenty of your fans, seem obsessed with being portrayed as a big club to other fans. We couldn’t give a monkeys and most of us actually revel in the fact that we punch above our weight. Biggest small club in the world and all that.
I actually know of Milllwall fans who wouldn’t want us to play in the PL and certainly wouldn’t want the ground expanded as they feel it would dilute the support. That’s not my personal opinion but plenty of our fans feel that way.
What would they do then if you reached the playoffs, want to lose ? Nonsense
Honestly, I’ve had this conversation with some of them, and find it utterly bizarre. They are in a minority, but there are some of our fans who wouldn’t want us going up. On my life.
Others say they just want a season or two up there and then come back down before the support changed too much and I sort of get that, although I don’t agree.
I get the opening paragraph totally.
From a fans view, particularly who go away, it is money draining with the fixtures being changed or in kick off times meaning overnight stays.
However, staying in the money league changes things for the finances of the club, the shitbags from SE25 highlight how it is.
PS @MillwallFan we share each others pain tonight. You're a good lad.
Cheers mate. Yeah sick as the proverbial parrot tonight. Gutted. Hey ho
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Palace hard and loud?! When was that.
No idea - Palace winning means u r now the only club south of the river with no major trophy so u will need to tell us even more how hard you used to be to compensate
What are you on about you silly old sod?? 😂
where have I been telling you how hard we used to be?? 🤷🏻🤷🏻 that was one of yours, this woodwork fella. Not me 😆
Oh, was you addressing woodwork with this post? You might have. I’m confused and currently drowning my sorrows 😆
Not true. Yes the atmosphere at the old place was unique, mental and unbelievable a lot of the time. But people look back with rose tinted glasses. There was times when there was a few thousand rattling around in there, or when we were playing dead rubbers, and it was rubbish. And I’m saying that as someone who loved the old place and was bought up on those terraces.
We’ve had some absolutely electric (and very hostile) days in the new place and when all three home stands get going in unison it can give me goosebumps. When we played Huddersfield in the play off semis a few years back, that was as good an atmosphere as I’ve ever experienced, old or new. We could see the Huddersfield team literally melt before our eyes. Michael Calvin, the revered sports journalist who followed us around that season said the only atmosphere he could compare it to was when he witnessed Rangers win the title at Celtic Park.
I went to that Friday night Championship game v Wolves when Millwall were going for the play-offs. Did you go? That was very hostile. It appeared on that BBC Hooligan documentary, because the Wolves 'firm' had to call the police to save them from being murdered! The documentary shows them on coaches and mini-buses sheepishly entering the ground under escort, looking like they knew they had bitten off way more than they could chew. Dave Jones, the Wolves manager got so much abuse, he looked like he was going to have a break down. My work mate came along too, he was a bit of a ground hopper who supported Southend United, and said it was like going back to the 1970s, because as he was walking to ground he saw Millwall come flying out of the pub to attack the Wolves hooligan coaches and mini-buses (that appear on docu). Said it was like something out of Lord of the Rings. Hence they had to call for help. When Steve Claridge (I think) scored that late penalty I thought the roof was going to come off! And was just a league match, important yeah, but not do or die or anything.
You've tried your best but I really don't believe that you're a Charlton fan. Obsessed seems about right.
100% - if palace win the cup today there will be even more on here telling us how hard and loud they used to be
Palace hard and loud?! When was that.
No idea - Palace winning means u r now the only club south of the river with no major trophy so u will need to tell us even more how hard you used to be to compensate
What are you on about you silly old sod?? 😂
where have I been telling you how hard we used to be?? 🤷🏻🤷🏻 that was one of yours, this woodwork fella. Not me 😆
Comments
Senegal Fields/The New London Stadium can have a good atmosphere, but we've mostly drowned out the home crowd in recent years until our inevitable collapse on the pitch!
So at least, the Spanners have only ever fucked with my football team.
Starting to doubt if you’re a Charlton fan at all mate haha
Funny you should mention Wolves, I'd sometimes go to Millwall with Dad if Charlton were away when I was a young teenager and a match against Wolves stays with me. It was 1967 and Wolves needed a point to win promotion.
Millwall were one up and then Wolves were awarded an 89th minute penalty which they managed to miss by a country mile. The crowd never really had time to simmer down though as Derek Dougan slotted one home with seconds remaining. Jeez did that crowd turn ugly - a baying mob. A Millwall fan disguised in a Wolves scarf ran on to the pitch and kicked Dougan in the balls. Cold Blow Lane was an intimidating place - no doubt about that.
Here is an account of a Wolves fan on the day:-
We started to move towards the exits, but the 'boot-boys' had already got to work, amply aided by the middle-aged dockers. It's the first time I have taken my scarf off and hid it. Outside the ground, as we tried to get back to the coaches, there were Wolves fans running on the rooves of parked cars to get away from the howling mobs of Millwall fans. Coaches bricked and spat on. I've never been so scared in my life. This is not, I hasten to add, a glorification of violence, but how it was.
Anyway, from my point of view it made for a memorable afternoon out. You have to remember this was 1967. I'm sure if you could suddenly beam yourself back to that time you'd find a very grey looking London with absolutely fuck all to do. A chance to see a football game (even Millwall) ranked much higher than sitting indoors playing with my Meccano set (not a euphemism!)
I find our current “Yoof / Element” support quite cringy. They, are obnoxious foul mouthed, bullying wannabes, who seem to have more arguments with other Charlton fans than anybody else.
I worked at Key Glassworks in Cold Blow Lane in the 60's and after a Saturday shift ending at 2pm, and a spot of lunch, would pop along to the old Den to watch the match, as Charlton usually playing away. Remember vividly a referee by the name of Burtenshaw getting a good hiding from a couple of Millwall fans after a loss.
Joined together in being utterly pissed off with today’s result
where have I been telling you how hard we used to be?? 🤷🏻🤷🏻 that was one of yours, this woodwork fella. Not me 😆