Product Description

Reading Football Club's relocation to Madejski Stadium in 1998 heralded the start of a new era for the previously underachieving Berkshire club. As they left the beloved but ramshackle old Elm Park, Reading FC started the process that led to their historic ascent to the Premier League in 2006.The stadium was made possible by the man after whom it was named, John Madejski - the club's chairman since 1990. Madejski always knew that the long-term future of the club depended upon the construction of a new stadium, and his vision was finally realised on 22 August 1998 as the doors opened with a 3 goal victory over Luton Town.In the early days, the team was unable to match the splendour of their new surroundings and laboured in the third tier, until Alan Pardew moulded a team that gained promotion in 2002. Pardew soon departed, but his good work was continued by Steve Coppell, who masterminded a record-breaking, title-winning season in 2005/06 as the Royals amassed a remarkable 106 points. The club's first-ever season in the Premier League was just as enjoyable, and Reading FC had grown into a major force in the English game.This comprehensive book tells the full story of the stadium's incredible first decade. Alongside recollections of the key moments, illustrated with stunning images, there are fascinating exclusive interviews with all the men who made it happen. It truly has been a decade of dreams.This is the full story of the stadium's first decade, recalling the key moments and containing exclusive interviews with all the men who made it happen. It is written by staff at Reading Football Club. It features and reviews in the local press.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #317548 in Books
• Published on: 2008-08
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 256 pages