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The Kop made me petrified but left me smitten – so I tracked down the original

In an extract of his new book, Mirror columnist Brian Reade explores the history of football's most famous stand

By Brian Reade · Liverpool Echo

Published: Saturday, 3 October 2026 at 8:30 AM

Key Things to Know

Writer Brian Reade traveled to South Africa to visit the original Spion Kop battlefield that inspired Liverpool's famous stand.
Liverpool's Anfield terrace opened in 1906 and took its name in tribute to soldiers who died in the 1900 Boer War battle.
The stand rose to global cultural prominence during the 1960s under manager Bill Shankly as terrace singing gained national media coverage.

The Story in 60 Seconds

In an extract from his book marking the 120th anniversary of Anfield's famous terrace, Brian Reade details his journey to Spion Kop in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The hill is the site of an infamous 1900 Boer War battle where hundreds of British soldiers, including many from Liverpool, lost their lives, leading football clubs to name steep terraces in their honour.

Reade explores how Liverpool's Kop became world-renowned during the 1960s under manager Bill Shankly, fueled by Merseybeat music and terrace culture. He also recounts his dramatic 1970 Kop debut watching Liverpool produce a 3-2 comeback victory over Merseyside rivals Everton.

Read the full article on Liverpool Echo

The Kop made me petrified but left me smitten – so I tracked down the original

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