Synopsis
In nearly 125 years of history Leyton Orient have never been one of football's most glamorous or high-achieving clubs, but nevertheless the club has a rich heritage. The O's are the second-oldest Football League club in London and the south-east of England behind Fulham, joined the Football League in 1905 and are the 24th oldest club currently playing in the Football League. Orient have had their share of ups and downs, both on and off the pitch, but the supporters have been loyal through adversity and successes in both League and Cup competition have been dearly savoured. A succession of club Chairman who have put in time, money and effort to ensure that the club has been kept afloat: Henry Wells-Holland, Frank Snewin, Harry Zussman, Arthur Page, Brian Winston, Neville Ovenden and Tony Wood. Today the club is in the hands of Barry Hearn and his vision of transforming Brisbane Road into a modern 21st-century all-seater stadium has been realised. His dream now is to become only the fourth O's Chairman to see the club winning promotion. Neilson N. Kaufman, club historian of more than 30 years, ably assisted by Alan E.
Ravenhill, has produced this official history of the O's from their earliest days as a cricket team in 1881 to the club of today. There are also illustrated profiles of more than 100 playing stars, every director and chairman, managers, trainers and backroom staff, as well as reports on all the memorable matches, international tours, the Southern League, the war years and minor cup competitions. All 950 first-team players (of whom 19 appeared in the FA Cup and 3 in the League Cup) are featured. But perhaps most impressive of all is the seasonal statistical record of every League, FA Cup and League Cup game played, including every date, result, attendance, line-up and scorers. Leyton Orient: The Complete Record is a real treasure trove of memories which is sure to delight all O's supporters, as well as everyone with an interest in the beautiful game.