A unique team, Thatchem United only select players named Robinson. So, a true family club Thatchem had never been out of the bottom tier until they gained their first promotion in 1968/69, which led to an unpredcented period of success.
Their first season in the Third Division was a struggle with survival only secured on the final day of the season. But the next season was remarkable as new signing Robin Robinson inspired United to a third place finish and promotion to the second tier.
Thatchem fans were in dreamland as United romped to a shocking win in the 1972 League Cup Final, while managing to secure their place in the Second Division with a game to spare.
From Fourth Division also rans to a place in the UEFA Cup, Thatchem United were mixing with Europe's best and more than holding their own thanks to another new signing, the teenager Ginger Robinson replacing Robin who took a highly paid job to coach a national team in West Africa. Ginger became United's best ever player and was called up for England Under 23s at the end of an amazing season that saw The Robins reach the UEFA Cup Semi-Finals where they were knocked out by top Portuguese side Trafalda.
Two solid seasons in the Second Division followed, with plenty for the Thatch faithful to cheer.
Disaster stuck as Thatchem suffered back to back relegations, dropping back down to Division 4 for the 1977/78 season. Ma had resigned as manager, being replaced by Tommy Robinson, who fails to inspire the Family leaving them in danger of dropping out of the League all together. However, United survive after Tommy quits at half time in the final match of the season, they rally to win and save themselves.
With veteran Cyril past his best, Ahmed Robinson took his place in midfield and inspired his new team to another great cup run, this time reaching the semi-finals of the League Cup, where they would be knocked out after two high scoring classics.
Players:
Crash Robinson GK 1
Digger Robinson GK 1
Alf Robinson D 2
Jack Robinson D 3
Sarge Mason D 4
Grizzly Bear Robinson CB/DM 4
Fred Robinson CH 5
Diego CM 6
Cyril Robinson CM 6
Dave Robinson CM 6
Bert Robinson RW 7
Flip Ferris LW 11
Dudley Robinson LW 11
Giraffe Robinson LW 11
Phil Burns IR 8
Paul Sharkey IR 8
Tom Robinson FW 8
Robin Robinson FW 8
Wally Robinson FW 8
Ginger Robinson FW 8
Ron Robinson CF 9
Tich Robinson FW 10
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