Pele referred to it as the beautiful game. As played by him and the Brazilian team that won the World Cup in 1970 it was. Any team he played in would rather win 4-2 than 2-0 because it was about attack, inventiveness, creativity and skill. In contrast to the Italian team they played in the final who epitomised the physical, defensive approach whose first aim was not to lose. When I think of Local Authorities in the 70’s contrasted with today I feel a sense of loss. The self believe, the inventiveness and the creativity have been replaced by defensiveness, resilience and the ability to make the most of limited opportunities. Success is another year without being declared bankrupt, another year with out being placed in special measures. The talk is of efficiency not effectiveness. To win one nil with your only shot on target is hailed as a super efficient victory. This risk adverse, robust defensiveness, stifles individuality and creativity, it does not inspire a generation, it is the reason for early retirements and quiet quitting. Such ,”victories “ are a defeat for the beautiful game that would make Pele weep.
Blair Mcpherson former Director author and blogger www.blairmcpherson.co.uk
