The story of a remarkable but little-known charity football match which featured a Chester FC legend among Britain's biggest footballing stars is to be told in a new documentary.
'Metcalf vs Puskás: The Forgotten Game' is a documentary chronicling the 1967 match and the events leading up to some of Britain's biggest footballing stars, including Billy Liddell, John Charles, Malcolm Allison, Dave Hickson, and Billy Bingham, taking on a Ferenc Puskás International XI for charity.
Directed by Daniel Metcalf, grandson of Chester FC legend Mike Metcalf who featured in the game, this independent film by Bull Moose Productions delves into a forgotten piece of football history. The documentary not only reconstructs the charity match but also explores the broader career of Mike Metcalf, an adopted child who forged a successful career first at Wrexham and then for rivals Chester, where he scored numerous goals and made hundreds of appearances.
"This project is a journey of discovery," said Daniel Metcalf. "It's about uncovering a lost moment in football history, but it's also about exploring how sport brings communities together. Through my grandfather's story, we'll examine the changing face of football over the past half century."
The production has already garnered significant support. Chester FC has provided access to a wealth of archival material and granted permission to film at their stadium.
The project has also caught the eye of the footballing community, with Welsh legend Neville Southall stating: "A fascinating footballing story which should make for a great film, I can't wait to watch and learn more about it."
Bull Moose Productions is actively seeking contributions from:
- Family members/relatives of players involved in the Puskás charity match
- Spectators from the 1967 game
- Anyone with materials/memorabilia relating to the game
- South Liverpool FC affiliates with historical stories about the club
- Football historians knowledgeable about the 1960s era
- Anyone involved with Bankfield House community centre
- Relatives/friends of Brian Taylor (Bankfield House organiser)
- Former teammates of Mike Metcalf with stories to share
"Metcalf vs Puskás: The Forgotten Game" aims to recreate the atmosphere and sense of celebration surrounding this extraordinary match, using a combination of interviews, archival footage, and animation.
The film will not only pay tribute to a unique moment in football history but also explore broader themes of community, memory, and social change.
Bull Moose Productions is also eager to collaborate with local talent in the Chester area, seeking filmmakers, technicians, and production assistants who are passionate about bringing this unique story to life. This project offers an excellent opportunity for emerging talent to work on a professional documentary production.
The production is also actively seeking financial support, with plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign, offering supporters the chance to feel personally involved in the project through a range of perks and rewards. Additionally, Bull Moose Productions will be applying for funding from relevant film bodies.
"We're looking to build a community around this film," added Daniel Metcalf. "Whether you're a football fan, a history buff, or simply someone who loves a good story, there are many ways to get involved."
For more information about the project or to contribute, visit www.metcalfvspuskas.com or email Daniel Metcalf at contact@metcalfvspuskas.com.
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