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

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