Fans experience 'This Is the One' like never before
The Stone Roses anthem 'This Is the One' has soundtracked plenty of memorable, emotional moments at Old Trafford, but last Friday – ahead of Saturday's 2-0 victory over Everton – it graced the stadium like never before.
The stage was the latest of our 'Warm-Up' events for loyal Supporters' Clubs, which are typically held the night before home games, in an attempt to bring fans together in a social setting. Particularly those that have travelled a long way to reach M16.
Director of Fan Engagement, Rick McGagh, described the idea to me as "like a big United pub inside Old Trafford". And on the evidence of Friday night, that ambition has been very much realised, as hundreds of supporters from 21 different countries gathered for a relaxed, friendly and ultimately rousing few hours inside OT's International Suite.
But the light show? That was something else entirely.
Director of Fan Engagement, Rick McGagh, described the idea to me as "like a big United pub inside Old Trafford". And on the evidence of Friday night, that ambition has been very much realised, as hundreds of supporters from 21 different countries gathered for a relaxed, friendly and ultimately rousing few hours inside OT's International Suite.
But the light show? That was something else entirely.
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United's clothing collaboration with the Stone Roses and adidas has been hugely popular with Reds all over the globe, and this event was a real treat for anyone with an enthusiasm for both the band and the club.
Upon entering the International Suite, supporters were dazzled by a room decked out with Roses-inspired decorations, and striking images of Marcus Rashford and co in the smart clothing.
Fans were given pin badges and wrist bands and, after a quick chat and a couple of drinks, then ushered out into the Stretford End by club staff.
What followed was This Is the One as we've never heard and see it before, with a pitch-black Old Trafford's centre circle blasted with beams of lights, in time with the iconoclastic anthem. A few Reds initially intimated to me that they might have preferred to get another pint, rather than trek out into the cold night air, but upon returning, they were buzzing, blown away by what they'd seen.
Upon entering the International Suite, supporters were dazzled by a room decked out with Roses-inspired decorations, and striking images of Marcus Rashford and co in the smart clothing.
Fans were given pin badges and wrist bands and, after a quick chat and a couple of drinks, then ushered out into the Stretford End by club staff.
What followed was This Is the One as we've never heard and see it before, with a pitch-black Old Trafford's centre circle blasted with beams of lights, in time with the iconoclastic anthem. A few Reds initially intimated to me that they might have preferred to get another pint, rather than trek out into the cold night air, but upon returning, they were buzzing, blown away by what they'd seen.
It was a high point on a night that was full of them – from live music courtesy of guitarist Jay Dunn, a chat with one-man United encyclopedia Andy Mitten, to an amusing and inspiring Q&A with Quinton Fortune and John O'Shea.
O'Shea's presence, in particular, was a treat for the many Irish Supporters' Clubs present on the night, and stories of Highbury ’05 and Anfield ’07 were deliriously received.
Who knew Sheasy was attempting a Cantona-style shrug-celebration after his legendary chip against the Gunners? The interim Ireland head coach blamed slack TV camerawork for failing to relay his intentions...
O'Shea's presence, in particular, was a treat for the many Irish Supporters' Clubs present on the night, and stories of Highbury ’05 and Anfield ’07 were deliriously received.
Who knew Sheasy was attempting a Cantona-style shrug-celebration after his legendary chip against the Gunners? The interim Ireland head coach blamed slack TV camerawork for failing to relay his intentions...
Throughout the night we had a series of giveaways from sponsors, including Cadbury and WOW HYDRATE, plus a free glass of wine via Casillero del Diablo.
Travel partners Sportsbreaks had set up an interactive quiz in one corner of the room, which was tackled by over 70 respondents, and ultimate winner Malcolm Knee proudly claimed a signed Marcus Rashford shirt.
The memorabilia fiesta didn't stop there, either. Proceedings climaxed with a fairly dramatic raffle and auction, as Reds from across the room haggled for a range of quality items – varying from a Kobbie Mainoo shirt to a Cristiano Ronaldo pennant.
A great time was had by all, but the serious upshot of all the fun was the £4,770 raised for Manchester United Foundation; a really important contribution that was doubtless inspired by a moving speech earlier in the evening from MUF's chief executive, John Shiels MBE.
Travel partners Sportsbreaks had set up an interactive quiz in one corner of the room, which was tackled by over 70 respondents, and ultimate winner Malcolm Knee proudly claimed a signed Marcus Rashford shirt.
The memorabilia fiesta didn't stop there, either. Proceedings climaxed with a fairly dramatic raffle and auction, as Reds from across the room haggled for a range of quality items – varying from a Kobbie Mainoo shirt to a Cristiano Ronaldo pennant.
A great time was had by all, but the serious upshot of all the fun was the £4,770 raised for Manchester United Foundation; a really important contribution that was doubtless inspired by a moving speech earlier in the evening from MUF's chief executive, John Shiels MBE.
If you've not been to one of these Warm-Up events yet, why not join your nearest Supporters' Club and make it part of your trip to Old Trafford?
There are plenty of material benefits for fans, but these hours are about so much more than free gifts, ex-players and a few pints.
Walking around the room, you hear stories from all over the world – from Finland, Craigavon, from Poland and beyond. People have travelled from as far away as Pakistan and India, while one Red I spoke to, Keith Udale of the High Peak branch, told me he had to fly back to Madrid in the morning and would actually miss the Everton game! But he was still in attendance here, enjoying that feeling of being part of United's community. Our church is a broad one – perhaps broader than any other football club's – and the Warm-Up is a brilliant demonstration of its magic and its sense of brotherhood.
Walking around the room, you hear stories from all over the world – from Finland, Craigavon, from Poland and beyond. People have travelled from as far away as Pakistan and India, while one Red I spoke to, Keith Udale of the High Peak branch, told me he had to fly back to Madrid in the morning and would actually miss the Everton game! But he was still in attendance here, enjoying that feeling of being part of United's community. Our church is a broad one – perhaps broader than any other football club's – and the Warm-Up is a brilliant demonstration of its magic and its sense of brotherhood.
And who knows... was the Stone Roses light show a glimpse at the way United's first XI might walk out onto the pitch in future? The fans I spoke to were divided on that possibility – traditions are often seen sacred in football, after all. But the Warm-Up is clearly one new ritual that has already been joyfully adopted.
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GalleryView images of our devoted international fans cheering on a United win from India.
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To find your local MUSC branch, and details of who to contact, use our online tool here.
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