Brick Lane “Gutt” hosts football reunion party

Emdad Rahman

An afternoon of nostalgic football was on the menu as players from the 70s, 80s and 90s reunited at the iconic “Brick Lane Gutt” to play a friendly football tournament. The football-themed social gathering saw PYO, Stars of East End, YMO and Shapla face off in a round robin tournament which was very well attended by the local community as well as supporters from afar. After an afternoon of exciting game time, they saw PYO beat Stars of East End to be crowned “Gutt champions”.

Councillor Suluk Ahmed is a veteran footballer from the era when the Gutt was a footballing hub. He said, “This has bought back a lot of fond memories today. I’ve really enjoyed playing and meeting up with old friends.”

Local football legend and the very first Sporting Bengal captain Goyas Miah was a distinguished defender during those halcyon days. “The best thing about today is seeing faces we haven’t seen in years,” he said. “It’s great to be back together on a pitch and I thank everyone for everything.”

The term “Gutt” in the Sylheti dialect means “hole”. The moniker was coined during the 80s and was an apt description of the famous Brick Lane pitch, which is actually ten feet below street level. ONTV filmed an interview there with Paul Canoville – Chelsea Football Club’s first ever black footballer. The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/r4ocWwo-Vh4

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