Tom Finney – The Splash – Stamford Bridge – Original Press Photograph – August 25th 1956

Publisher: P. A. Reuter
Price: £450.00
Date: August 25th 1956
Photograph Size: 20.4cm x 15.4cm including margins
Format: Original Press Photograph
Edition: Not stated.

Condition:

Shields Gazette stamp and P. A. Reuter stamp to the reverse. There is very slight creasing and a little marking to the reverse. The photograph is in very good indeed, clean condition and is printed in much more sepia tones than its later reproductions. Very scarce.

The Tom Finney ‘Splash’ Photograph: A Brief Description

The iconic photograph of Tom Finney sliding through water is one of the most famous images in football history. The picture was taken on 25th August 1956, during a match between Preston North End and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Context of the Photograph

• Date: 25th August 1956
• Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
• Match: Chelsea vs. Preston North End (2-2 draw)

The weather conditions were terrible, with torrential rain turning the pitch into a near-quagmire. Despite the waterlogged conditions, the match went ahead, and during one of Preston’s attacks, Tom Finney, one of England’s greatest players, made a trademark run down the right wing. As he attempted to control the ball near the by-line, he slipped and slid through a massive puddle of water, creating a splash.

The Iconic Moment

A photographer captured Finney mid-slide, with a huge spray of water trailing behind him. The image perfectly encapsulates Finney’s skill and determination, as well as his balance and grace in difficult conditions. Even though he was sliding in a sea of water, Finney still managed to maintain control of the ball. The photograph has become symbolic of football’s gritty, old-fashioned spirit, and it captures the essence of Finney as a player: resilient, skilful, and unwavering, no matter the conditions.

Tom Finney’s Reaction

Finney himself later said he had no idea the photograph had been taken at the time and was surprised by how much attention it received. The image has been reprinted in countless football magazines and books, and it remains one of the most celebrated images in the sport’s history.

Legacy of the Image

• The photo is often referred to as the “Splash” photograph, and it has become part of English football folklore.
• It symbolises the tenacity and adaptability of players in the 1950s, who often played through difficult conditions that would see modern matches postponed.
• The image is a favourite among Preston North End fans and is a testament to Finney’s legendary status at the club and in English football.

Tom Finney’s sliding moment in the water remains an unforgettable snapshot of British football history, combining sporting brilliance with the unique and often challenging conditions players faced in the game’s earlier decades.

Sir Tom Finney: A Brief Biography

Early Life and Background

Thomas Finney was born on 5 April 1922 in Preston, Lancashire, the son of a local bricklayer. Raised in a working-class family, Finney’s early life was defined by modest means and a strong sense of community. His passion for football began at a young age, playing on the streets of Preston and dreaming of representing his hometown team, Preston North End. Despite his talent, his small frame and childhood illness delayed his entry into professional football.

At the age of 14, Finney signed amateur forms with Preston North End, but his footballing career was interrupted by the outbreak of the Second World War. During the war, he served in the Royal Armoured Corps as a tank driver, seeing active service in Egypt and Italy. It was during this time that Finney honed his skills further, playing football whenever the opportunity arose, often in makeshift games between soldiers.

Football Career

Tom Finney made his professional debut for Preston North End in August 1946 at the age of 24, after the end of the war. He was a late starter in the professional game, but his impact was immediate. Playing as an outside-left (a winger), Finney quickly established himself as one of the most skilful and intelligent players in English football. Known for his exceptional dribbling ability, pinpoint crosses, and versatility, he was capable of playing on either flank or even as an inside forward.

Finney’s footballing intelligence and ability to read the game made him a nightmare for defenders. His skill in controlling the ball in tight spaces and his sharp acceleration allowed him to evade opponents with ease. Unlike many wingers of his time, Finney combined his natural flair with a strong work ethic, making him both a creative force and a hard-working team player.

Throughout his 14-year career with Preston, Finney made 433 appearances for the club, scoring 210 goals. This is an impressive statistic for a player who was primarily known for creating opportunities for others rather than being a prolific goal scorer himself.

Despite his immense individual talent, Preston North End were not one of England’s top clubs during this period. They came close to winning the First Division title on several occasions but never quite managed it. Nevertheless, Finney’s loyalty to the club remained unwavering. He famously turned down lucrative offers from abroad, including a highly publicised bid from the Italian club Palermo, who offered him a vast salary and a luxury villa. Finney, however, chose to remain in Preston, reflecting his deep connection to the club and his grounded character.

International Career

Finney’s international career was equally distinguished. He earned his first England cap in 1946 and went on to represent his country 76 times, scoring 30 goals. He played in three World Cup tournaments – in 1950, 1954, and 1958 – and was one of England’s most consistent performers during his time with the national team.

One of Finney’s most memorable performances for England came in a 1956 match against Brazil at Wembley, where he played a key role in England’s 4-2 victory. He also helped England to a famous 10-0 win against Portugal in 1947, one of the largest victories in the national team’s history.

Playing Style and Legacy

Finney’s style of play was marked by grace, intelligence, and sportsmanship. Unlike many wingers who relied solely on pace, Finney combined speed with exceptional ball control, vision, and tactical awareness. His ability to switch wings during a match added a level of unpredictability to his game, making him one of the most difficult players to mark in his era.

Sir Stanley Matthews, another great of English football, once remarked that Tom Finney was “the greatest footballer to ever play.” This sentiment was shared by many of his contemporaries, who admired Finney’s professionalism and humble nature. He was never one for theatrics or showmanship; his brilliance lay in his consistent performances and his ability to influence games quietly but effectively.

Finney’s loyalty to Preston North End, a club that never won the league during his time, made him a symbol of loyalty and dedication in an era where big-money transfers were becoming more common. He was nicknamed “The Preston Plumber” due to his trade as a plumber, which he continued to practise even after becoming a football star. This moniker only added to his image as a down-to-earth, working-class hero.

Post-Football Life

After retiring from professional football in 1960 at the age of 38, Finney continued to live in Preston, remaining a beloved figure in the town and in English football more broadly. He ran a successful plumbing and electrical business, staying true to his roots despite his fame.

In 1961, Finney was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in recognition of his services to football, and in 1998, he was knighted, becoming Sir Tom Finney. His influence extended beyond football, as he became an ambassador for the sport and for his hometown, involved in various charitable activities and maintaining a close connection with Preston North End.

Preston North End’s Deepdale stadium features a stand named in Finney’s honour, as well as the famous statue, “The Splash,” which depicts Finney gliding through water as he controls the ball – a reference to a famous photograph taken during a 1956 match against Chelsea in torrential rain.

Death and Legacy

Sir Tom Finney passed away on 14 February 2014, aged 91. His death was met with widespread tributes from across the footballing world. Thousands of fans gathered in Preston to pay their respects to the local legend, and his funeral was attended by a host of footballing greats, including Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton.

Finney’s legacy lives on as one of the greatest players to have ever played the game, not only for his exceptional footballing ability but also for his humility, loyalty, and contribution to the community. To this day, he is remembered as one of the finest ambassadors of English football, embodying the values of integrity, hard work, and passion for the sport.

In 2018, Finney was posthumously inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame, cementing his place as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 6200: 6200X 002484

Why Buy From Us?

At Hornseys, we only offer items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of prints and photographs is carefully curated to ensure each piece is authentic.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every photograph is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: Each photograph is selected with a keen eye for historical significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, items may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:
Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and antique prints and photographs. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors since 1976.

Thank you for looking.