Ally's Tartan Army

Nostalgia is a powerful drug, especially the older you get. When you are young, you are developing your sense of self. The things we do, the people we know, the shows we watch, and so on all have an effect on who we are. In a way, those things become part of us in a way that few things do after the fact. So when you go back to something from your childhood it's like rediscovering a part of yourself that you missed.

I was transported back to 1978 when chatting to someone in work last week. We were talking about music and TV from back then and somehow got onto talking about Scotland's World Cup tune from said year. You know the tongue in cheek one when we were going to The Argentine to lift the trophy, whilst gently mocking our Southern neighbours who failed to qualify. The song captures the spirit and pride of Scottish football fans who all rallied behind the national team. The chorus highlights the (misguided) faith and optimism of the fans. It was an anthem and was known and sung by pretty much the entire population of Scotland. The song's infectious energy and uplifting message brought everyone together and reminded us all of what truly mattered - our love for the great game and pride in our nation.

I remember the song being played constantly around the house and today it still resonates with football enthusiasts and serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of sportsmanship and the camaraderie shared amongst fans.

It goes without saying that we didn't bring the trophy back but, like so many others, I feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and pride when I hear Ally's Tartan Army. Innocent times when we were all united. It brings back so many memories of the 9 year old me running around in my Scotland top and kicking a football whenever I could. All the time, without realising, developing my sense of self and forming a memory I would look nostalgically back on over 45 years later.