The Untold Story of The Crazy Gang: Dave Bassett and the Champions Beyond

In the realm of football, some teams become legendary for their extraordinary tactics and unruly behavior. One such iconic team, known as The Crazy Gang, led by Dave Bassett, etched their names into history during the 1980s and 1990s. Their audacious style of play, combined with a unique team spirit, captured the hearts of fans and left a lasting legacy that is talked about to this day.

The Crazy Gang referred to the group of misfits who made up Wimbledon Football Club during their most successful period. Under the guidance of manager Dave Bassett, the team achieved astonishing success against all odds. They not only won promotions but also secured a place in the top flight, rubbing shoulders with the football elite.

The Rise of The Crazy Gang

Before Bassett's arrival, Wimbledon FC was a nondescript club playing in the lower tiers of English football. However, everything changed when he took charge in 1981. Bassett instilled his famous "never say die" attitude, transforming the team into a force to be reckoned with. The Crazy Gang slowly emerged.

The Crazy Gang

by Dave Bassett(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23700 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages

FREE

Bassett's approach to the game was unorthodox, focusing on physicality and tenacity rather than finesse and traditional techniques. The team's philosophy centered around teamwork, resilience, and a sheer will to win. Their style of play was dynamic, aggressive, and unlike anything seen before in English football.

With Vinnie Jones emerging as the team's enforcer, along with the likes of Dennis Wise and John Fashanu, Wimbledon FC developed a fearsome reputation. They were a team that was never afraid to get stuck in, never backing down from any challenge.

The Cup Fever

The Crazy Gang's defining moment came in 1988 when they shocked the football world by winning the FA Cup against the mighty Liverpool, one of the most dominant teams of that era. Their victory was more than just a success story; it symbolized the triumph of the underdog.

The team's dedication and never-say-die attitude were on display throughout the tournament. Their unrelenting spirit helped them overcome the odds, defeating several high-profile teams on their path to victory. They showed that passion, commitment, and teamwork could overcome the limitations of resources and individual talent.

The Crazy Gang's legacy only grew stronger after their historic FA Cup win. They continued to defy expectations, punching above their weight and entertaining fans with their unique brand of football. Their outrageous antics off the field also contributed to their popularity, making them a favorite among neutrals who craved excitement and unpredictability.

Life Beyond the Pitch

Although The Crazy Gang era eventually came to an end, when Wimbledon FC's fortunes dwindled, their influence on English football remains undeniable. They showed that success is not solely dependent on resources but also on an unwavering spirit and a united team. Their never-give-up attitude still serves as an inspiration to underdogs everywhere.

Individually, many members of The Crazy Gang went on to have successful careers, both on and off the pitch. Dave Bassett himself became a respectable figure in English football, taking charge of several clubs and leaving an indelible mark as a manager.

However, the memories of The Crazy Gang's shenanigans and unexpected triumphs during their time together will forever be cherished. They remain a symbol of the unconventionality and magic that can exist in football, reminding us that anything is possible with a bit of craziness and a whole lot of heart.

The Crazy Gang, led by Dave Bassett, carved out a unique place in football history. Their audacious style of play, fierce determination, and ability to defy expectations made them an unforgettable team. Through their relentless spirit, they proved that football is not just about technique and skill but also about the strength of character and unity.

The legacy of The Crazy Gang lives on, inspiring future generations of players and reminding us all of the beauty of the beautiful game.

The Crazy Gang

by Dave Bassett(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23700 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages

FREE

'If we can sell Newcastle Brown to Japan, and if Wimbledon can make it to the First Division, there is surely no achievement beyond our reach.' Margaret Thatcher

The Crazy Gang is the story of a football miracle. Promoted to the Football League in 1977, Wimbledon FC was a small team from south London that against the odds went all the way to the top of the First Division, then to win the FA Cup, in only just over a decade. With no money, scant resources and a blend of youth players and offcuts from other clubs, they were christened 'Rag-Arse Rovers'. They played hard on the pitch and partied hard off it.

Dave 'Harry' Bassett was the manager who drilled a fierce fighting spirit into his players, an unbreakable team ethos, but he was also an underrated master tactician and pioneer of innovative training methods. Wally Downes was the midfield fulcrum of the Dons, but also the ringleader for the various acts of debauchery and general silliness that earned the club their reputation.

In The Crazy Gang, Harry and Wally are joined by a host of former Wimbledon players and staff, both famous names like Vinnie Jones, Lawrie Sanchez and Dave Beasant, but also unsung heroes in the club's history, to tell it as it really was. This is real football, the way fans remember it, and a world away from multimillionaire Premier League primadonnas.