Ripping Yarns (S2, Ep2 - Golden Gordon) (1979)

S2, Ep 2: Golden Gordon. Barnestoneworth United is the worst football team in the district - they have been for some time, which is disheartening for arch fan Gordon Ottershaw, who continues to follow them, despite continually returning home to kick the cat and depress his family after every defeat. For Gordon remembers a time when Barnestoneworth United were a top team, and when he hears plans to disband the team he decides to seek out their former players from their glory era in a bid to stave off the dreaded axe - and finally win a game! Starring Michael Palin, Gwen Taylor, Bill Fraser, Teddy Turner, David Leland, John Berlyne, Ken Kitson, Roger Sloman, David Ellison, Colin Bennett, David Scurfield, Charles McKeown, Pat Taylor, Margot Lawson, Tom Harrison, Danny O'Dea, Gillian McClements, plus see if you can spot John Cleese as a passer by making an appearance as a favour for old buddy Michael Palin. This is one of Ripping Yarns' most famous stories, and despite the fact that watching dramas involving sport usually turns me off (despite enjoying sport on the TV), this is an entertaining and affectionate tribute to olden times and loyal fan support - which all fans who support a lower team know all about. Enjoy.