Scott Twine: The Free-Kick Maestro
When discussing the legendary free-kick takers of Bristol City, it’s impossible not to glow with pride as I recount the tales of the greats. But now, it seems, we've got a new hero carving out his niche in the Robins’ history books – Scott Twine. His astounding equaliser against Watford was not just a goal; it was a statement, his sixth of the season, making him the most proficient free-kick taker in the EFL over the past seven years.
A Look Back at the Legends
Reflecting on the past heroes, names like the late Ernie Hunt and Norman 'Bite Your Legs' Hunter vividly come to mind. Though Hunt was renowned for his 'donkey kick' while at Coventry, it was with Hunter, during his tenure at City, where the fans witnessed the potency of his strikes. His unforgettable boot-flying free-kick against Everton in September 1978 remains etched in our memories.
Not forgetting the likes of Alan Walsh, whose tenure from 1984 to 1989 saw him net 99 goals, many of which were majestic free-kicks. Followed by defenders Darren Barnard and Mickey Bell, each leaving their mark with spectacular set-piece goals.
The Evolution of Set-Pieces
The art of free-kicking seems to have evolved over the years. Gone are the days of solely power-driven shots, replaced by meticulously choreographed routines from the training ground. A notable example was seen during the 2008 Championship play-off semi-final against Crystal Palace, where a beautifully executed passing routine led to Louis Carey scoring a pivotal goal.
A Nod to Future Potential
It’s also heartening to see former City talent Alex Scott making strides on the international scene, albeit he’s yet to make his mark on the pitch. The debate around player selection continues, as veterans like Jordan Henderson are chosen over burgeoning talents like Scott – a decision that baffles many, considering the potential and fresh energy young players like Scott can bring.
Looking Forward
As we rally behind our Robins in anticipation of future triumphs, it’s clear that with talents like Scott Twine, the magic of the beautiful game remains alive at Ashton Gate. Coupled with our vibrant history and the promise of our youth, there’s every reason to believe Bristol City can soar to new heights this season.
And just for a bit of fun at the end, here’s a little joke to spice up the rivalry: How many Swansea fans does it take to change a lightbulb? None, they're still stuck in the dark about how to win a match! Keep the faith, my fellow Robins, our time is now!
