Wolverhampton Wanderers have had 27 full time managers in its history. In the first part of our series detailing these men we look at the man who took the reigns back in 1877
George Worrall
Manager March 1877 to August 1885
George Worrall was appointed the clubs secretary-manager back in 1877. The club was still playing under the name of St Luke’s at the time. Just a few months earlier the club had played its first game, a local game versus Stafford Road. A game which saw Stafford Road run out 8-0 winners in a 12 a side game.
During his first two years over 40 games games were played against local opposition and the club was quickly becoming a major force in the area.
During George Worralls’ spell as manager the club formed with Blakenhall Wanderers cricket team and the name of Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club was born.
The first 6 years of his spell in charge saw the club play games at John Harpers Field in Lower Villers Street and then onto Dudley Road.
As the team grew in stature it quickly became the best team in the Black Country. Results such as 11-0 versus Walsall Albion and 7-0 win over Stourbridge Standard helped with this name tag.
In 1883 Wolves entered the FA Cup, George led his team to a famous 4-1 victory over Long Eaton Rovers in the clubs first ever tie in this now world famous knock out competition.
1884 saw George Worrall claim the clubs first piece of silverware when they won the Wrekin Cup. A thumping 11-0 win over Shropshire based Hadley secured the first entry to the clubs trophy cabinet.
George was also instrumental in introducing the clubs first offical trainer, Billy Shipton, the landlord of the Vine Public House. A popular figure amongst the players due to his methods in training.
1885 saw George almost claim his second trophy but defeat in the Staffordshire Cup Final versus Stoke ended that.
George Worrall saw his team play just 4 FA Cup games over 2 years during his reign. Winning 1 Drawing 1 and losing 2. The club never got past the 2nd round. Wednesbury Old Athletic and Derby St Lukes stopping their progress.
As part of the committee, George was a major player in making Wolves ready to later become a founder member of the football league. The majority of his reign was all about building and establishing the club.
In 1885 football became a professional sport and Wolves were one of the first clubs to become registered. With this George Worrall stepped down and was replaced by Jack Addenbrooke.
In Part 2 we look at the impact that Jack Addenbrooke had on the club in his 32 years in charge.
