A Long Road to Glory: The Lionesses Origin Story | Part Two

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast hosted by Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper. In this second episode of a two-part special, we delve into the pivotal moments that lifted the 50-year ban on women's football in England. From the formation of the Women’s Football Association, to looking at the birth of the Lionesses and their first official international match. This episode looks at the pioneering women and their allies who revived the game in the 1960s, building grassroots clubs, fighting for recognition to pave the way for women’s football today. Tune in to hear all about the history of the women’s game. 00:00 The End of the Ban 00:28 Picking Up the Pieces: Women’s Football After the Ban 00:53 The 1960s Revival: Grassroots and New Teams 03:10 The Impact of England’s 1966 World Cup Win 07:54 Building a Movement: Key Figures and Early Clubs 10:56 Struggles for Facilities and Recognition 12:50 International Influence 21:22 The Formation of the Women’s Football Association 24:32 The FA’s Changing Attitude and Official Recognition 27:20 The First Women’s FA Cup and International Competitions 29:40 Tensions: Unofficial vs. Official Tournaments 36:52 The Lost Lionesses: Mexico 1971 and Unrecognised Pioneers 40:26 The First Official Lionesses Game: Scotland vs. England, 1972 45:44 Media Coverage and Social Attitudes 47:44 Timeline: From the First Match to Modern Success 50:08 Reflections: The Legacy of the Pioneers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.