Crystal Palace vs Arsenal, 1971-72 Season: Video Flashback

During the 2010 World Cup, there were quite a few controversial incidents that happened on or near the goal line. Just a couple of examples including Frank Lampard’s goal for England against Germany which was disallowed because the referee and assistant referee ruled that the ball didn’t cross the line. And then we had Luis Suarez’s last gasp handball on the line for Uruguay against Ghana.

But these type of incidents have been rife in our game for decades. One example I came across this morning was from a 1972 match featuring Crystal Palace against Arsenal. Watch the video to see how the incidents unfurled.

Other interesting points from this game is that the 1971-72 season was the one that Derby won the First Division (the precursor of the Premier League). Plus, the opening scenes of Selhurst Park in this video show how few skyscrapers and how much greenery could be seen in the distance. Contrast that now with the modern city of London and how overcrowded it is.

There are plenty of other interesting observations you can take from this video. If you see any in particular, feel free to share them in the comments section below.

By the way, the final result in the game was 2-2. Crystal Palace went on to finish the season fourth from bottom and narrowly escaped relegation. Arsenal finished the season in fifth place.