Anniversaries that trigger big memories for Brewers

TWO events, last week and this week, triggered memories of small but significant anniversaries for older Burton Albion supporters.

- By COLSTON CRAWFORD

Both involved significant wins for the club but one of them was particularly poignant.

It was 16 years ago, on August 15, 2009, that the Brewers enjoyed their first victory as a Football League club - they beat Morecambe 5-2 at the Pirelli Stadium with goals from Greg Pearson (20), Russ Penn, Shaun Harrad and John McGrath.

That day, the Morecambe supporters unveiled a banner at the away end saying "Welcome to the Football League, a gesture that has not been forgotten in these parts.

Therefore, it was brilliant to see that, almost 16 years later to the day, Morecambe's long battle to find new owners was over and they were free of the man, Jason Whittingham, who had previously presided over the demise of Worcester Warriors rugby club.

Time will tell if Morecambe's new owners will prove a long-term sustainable solution but it is great to see them back in business and great to see them win their first game back in the National League at the weekend, scoring a 90th-minute winner to see off Altrincham 2-1.

Perhaps, one day, when they return to the Football League, Burton fans will have the chance to show them a reciprocal welcoming banner. That would be good.