Thread by @grahamparkerfc

Thread: I just dropped my 9 year old at school. Military precision rules in the car park, etc. 42 years ago today, when I was also 9, my dad gave me our one ticket to @SunderlandAFC v West Ham, after trying to slip turnstile operator £5 to let him lift me over turnstile.

It was last game of season in old Division II, delayed because West Ham were in FA Cup Final. Sunderland had a chance of promotion. I was desperate to go. My dad had called over and managed to scare up one ticket.

We walked back from turnstile to car, then he stopped and looked me in eye and said, "This ticket is in row we usually sit in. Do you remember how to get there."

I said, "Turn right, second stairway on left, turn right at top of stairs, all the way back, go left."

He still looked doubtful, then made me describe exactly where exit was, where car was parked etc. I did so, and he sighed, then marched me to the turnstile, gave me the ticket and said, "Stay in your seat at half-time, out at final whistle...and don't tell your mum."

I barely remember the game, other than Kevin Arnott's first goal in the 2-0 win that sent Sunderland up, and the roar, and the old man beside me who I recognized from other games, who smelled of Bovril and B&H. He adopted me for the game with gruff kindness.

At final whistle I got up to go and he stopped me and said, "Stay for the lap of honor, son. You don't know when you'll see another one. I'll talk to your dad." Stood me on my wooden seat and I watched celebrations.

By time we got out, my dad was pacing the exits and I had to wait by the car for 10 minutes, when he showed up frantic and furious, though he softened immediately when he saw my beaming face.

"It was amazing, dad. Joe looked after me."
"Yeah, I listened on the radio. I was nervous until Cummins got the second goal. And you worried me...but I understand. Let's get home...And don't tell your mother."

It was the best worst parenting moment I experienced in my young life. And these days I imagine it with extreme empathy for him as a dad. Doubt I'd make the same decision, but beyond grateful he did.

We've been to more matches since, and I've been to Classicos, FA Cup Finals, World Cup Finals, etc. but nothing compares to the memory of that night with and without my dad.

And I never leave early. End.

I should add: sorry, mum. I've carried this burden for too long. I hope we can rebuild trust. Don't be too hard on dad.