Cliff Bastin’s Goals: The achievements of one of Arsenal’s early great goal scorers
Cliff Bastin’s Goals: The achievements of one of Arsenal’s early great goal scorers.
Cliff Bastin is a name that takes us back to Arsenal's golden era. During this time, the club shone brightly thanks to Bastin's amazing goal-scoring skills. Born in Heavitree, Exeter, in 1912, he started his football career with Exeter City at just 16. His talent quickly caught the eye of Herbert Chapman, Arsenal's legendary manager, who brought him to Arsenal in 1929 at 17.
Key Takeaways
- Cliff Bastin scored a remarkable 178 goals in 396 games for Arsenal, a club record that stood for nearly 60 years.
- He was a key player in Arsenal's dominant 1930s teams, helping the club win 5 league titles and 2 FA Cups.
- Despite playing primarily as a winger, Bastin was a deadly finisher, scoring over 30 goals in multiple seasons.
- Bastin's goal-scoring exploits and young age earned him the moniker "Boy Bastin" among fans and the media.
- His impressive international career included 21 caps and 12 goals for the England national team.
Early Life and Beginnings at Exeter City
Cliff Bastin was born in Heavitree, Exeter, Devon in 1912. He started his career with Exeter City, his hometown club. At just 16, he made his debut for Exeter City in 1928.
At Exeter City, Cliff Bastin played 17 games and scored 6 goals. His time was short but his talent was clear. Arsenal manager Herbert Chapman saw his potential.
Chapman was impressed with Cliff Bastin's skills. He signed him in 1928-29, starting a career with Arsenal. This move led to Bastin becoming one of Arsenal's top goal scorers.
"Cliff Bastin's early days at Exeter City were a mere precursor to the goal-scoring exploits that would cement his legacy as an Arsenal legend."
Discovery by Herbert Chapman and Move to Arsenal
Cliff Bastin's skills were quickly noticed by Herbert Chapman, a famous Arsenal manager, during his time at Exeter City. In 1929, Chapman saw the 17-year-old Bastin play against Watford and was blown away by his skill. Chapman knew right away that he wanted Bastin at Arsenal.
By October 1929, Cliff Bastin joined Arsenal at just 17 years old. He became a key player in the team that ruled English football in the 1930s. Under Chapman, they won many league titles and cups.
Spotted by Arsenal manager Herbert Chapman in 1929
Joined Arsenal at age 17 in October 1929
| Year | Arsenal's Performance | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1924-25 | Finished 19th and 20th place | Under manager Leslie Knighton |
| 1925 | Herbert Chapman appointed as manager | Offered an annual salary of £2,000 |
| 1930 | Won the FA Cup | Successful fifth year of Chapman's five-year plan |
| 1930-31 | Won their first-ever First Division championship | Scored 127 goals, with Jack Lambert netting 38 |
Cliff Bastin joined Arsenal during their best era under Herbert Chapman. His skills and goal-scoring were key to Arsenal's success in the 1930s.
Cliff Bastin's Prolific Goal-Scoring Exploits
Cliff Bastin played for Arsenal for 11 years and became one of the club's top goal scorers. He scored 178 goals in 396 games, a record that stood until Ian Wright broke it in 1997. Despite being a winger, Bastin's skills made him a standout player.
Bastin's amazing goal-scoring was key to Arsenal's success in the 1930s. He was known for his great technique and calm in front of the goal. His goals proved his talent and helped the team win big during that time.
| Player | Total Goals for Arsenal | Goals per Match | Minutes per Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thierry Henry | 228 | 0.60 | 134 |
| Ian Wright | 185 | 0.62 | N/A |
| Cliff Bastin | 178 | N/A | N/A |
| Ted Drake | 173 | 0.94 | N/A |
| Robin van Persie | 132 | 0.47 | 142 |
Bastin was a vital player for Arsenal in the 1930s, thanks to his goal-scoring and consistent play. His legacy as one of the all-time great goal scorers is still honored by Arsenal fans today.
Arsenal's Dominance in the 1930s
The 1930s was a golden era for Arsenal Football Club. Cliff Bastin was a key player during this time. He played a big role in Arsenal's dominance of English football in the decade.
Under Herbert Chapman, Arsenal won 5 league titles (1930-31, 1932-33, 1933-34, 1934-35, 1937-38) and 2 FA Cups (1929-30, 1935-36). Bastin's goal-scoring was key to the Gunners' success. They became the top team in the English game.
Bastin's Trophy-Laden Decade
Cliff Bastin made a big impact on Arsenal's championships in the 1930s. Here are some key stats:
- Scored a total of 178 goals for Arsenal before World War II
- Held the club's all-time goal-scoring record for nearly 60 years
- Won 5 Division One (Premier League equivalent) titles and 2 FA Cups with the Gunners
Bastin's goal-scoring and Arsenal's strong team play made the club a dominant force in English football in the 1930s.
"Cliff Bastin was a true Arsenal legend, a prolific goal scorer who played a vital role in the club's unprecedented success in the 1930s. His name will forever be etched in the annals of Arsenal's illustrious history."
Bastin's role in Arsenal's championships in the 1930s made him one of the greatest players in the club's history. His goal-scoring and the Gunners' success during that time are unforgettable.
The Infamous 1938 England vs Germany Match
In 1938, Cliff Bastin shone for England in a 6-3 win over Germany in Berlin. This match was a big deal for Bastin and for the historical setting it was in.
Bastin, a star winger for Arsenal, scored the first goal and helped England beat Germany, who had won 16 games in a row. The final score was Germany 3 - 6 England, with 105,000 fans watching.
But, the game was overshadowed by a disturbing act before it started. The English players had to give the Nazi salute, which was met with a lot of criticism. This act has left a bad mark on the game's history.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total fans in attendance | More than 110,000 |
| Final score | Germany 3 - 6 England |
| Half-time score | Germany 2 - 4 England |
| Cliff Bastin's goal tally | 10th goal |
| Other goal scorers for England | Jackie Robinson (2), Frank Broome, Stanley Matthews, Len Goulden |
| Time gap before next England vs Germany match | More than 60 years |
Despite the controversy before the game, Bastin's performance was a highlight. He showed off his amazing skills and helped England beat Germany. This match is a key part of Bastin's career and English football history.
England Career and International Achievements
Cliff Bastin was a star for Arsenal, but he also shone on the international stage with England. He played 21 times for England from 1931 to 1938, scoring 12 goals. Bastin was a key player in the 1930s, helping England succeed at the highest level.
Bastin's International Accolades
- Won 21 caps for England between 1931 and 1938
- Scored 12 goals for the national team
- Played a key role in England's victories, including a 3-2 triumph over World Cup champions Italy in 1934
- At the age of 19, he held the record for being the youngest player to win a League title, FA Cup, and an England cap
Bastin's international career made him a top player of his time. His skills and hard work made him a leader in cliff bastin england caps and cliff bastin england goals. His cliff bastin international career and cliff bastin england appearances showed his true talent.
| Player | Arsenal Goals | England Caps | England Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Bastin | 178 | 21 | 12 |
| Thierry Henry | 228 | 123 | 51 |
| Ian Wright | 185 | 33 | 9 |
"Cliff Bastin was one of the most prolific goal scorers in Arsenal's history, and his contributions to the national team were equally impressive. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of English football."
Wartime Exploits and Acting Career
During World War II, Cliff Bastin's football career was put on hold. But he didn't stop playing the game. He became an Air Raid Precaution (ARP) warden at Arsenal's famous Highbury stadium. He worked hard to keep people safe and boost morale during the war.
Bastin also tried his hand at acting during the war. He starred in films like "The Arsenal Stadium Mystery" in 1939 and "One of Our Aircraft is Missing" in 1942. These roles proved he could charm audiences both on and off the field.
The start of World War II slowed down Bastin's football career. Yet, his work as an ARP warden and his acting roles showed his flexibility and love for the sport. Even in tough times, Bastin stayed connected to football and the entertainment world.
"Bastin's versatility extended beyond the football pitch, as he also found himself in front of the camera."
Post-War Career and Legacy
After World War II, Cliff Bastin came back to football, playing 6 games for Arsenal before retiring in 1947. His career was cut short by injury. Yet, his legacy as a top goal scorer for Arsenal lives on.
After retiring, Bastin became the landlord of two pubs in Exeter. But his football impact was far from forgotten. In 2009, Cliff Bastin was honored with a place in the English Football Hall of Fame.
At Exeter City, a stand at St James Park was named after him. This shows how much Bastin meant to the game, from his early days with Exeter City to his time with Arsenal.
Cliff Bastin became an Arsenal legend despite his short career. He scored 178 goals in 396 games, holding the Arsenal record for nearly 60 years until Thierry Henry beat it in 2006.
"Cliff Bastin was a true icon of the game, a player whose skill, determination, and goal-scoring prowess have left an indelible mark on the history of Arsenal and English football as a whole."
The legacy of Cliff Bastin shows the lasting impact of football's pioneers. They helped make the sport what it is today.
Arsenal's Legendary Goal Scorers
Arsenal's history is filled with top goal scorers who have made their mark. Cliff Bastin is one of these stars, known for his amazing goal-scoring skills. He is considered one of the great players in Arsenal's history.
Bastin scored 178 goals for Arsenal, holding the club's record for nearly 60 years. Ian Wright and then Thierry Henry later beat his score. But Bastin's consistent goal-scoring made him a legend at Arsenal.
The Longevity of Bastin's Record
Cliff Bastin's record at Arsenal shows his skill and consistency. His name was at the top of the scorers list for nearly 60 years. This shows how big an impact he had on Arsenal's success.
| Player | Total Goals | Total Games | 100th Goal Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thierry Henry | 228 | 377 | 181 |
| Ian Wright | 185 | 288 | 143 |
| Cliff Bastin | 178 | 396 | 174 |
Cliff Bastin scored 178 goals in 396 games for Arsenal. His consistent goal-scoring made him a key player in the 1930s. He is seen as one of Arsenal's legends.
"Cliff Bastin was a true Arsenal icon, his goal-scoring feats etching his name among the club's all-time greats. His record stood the test of time, a testament to his enduring quality and influence on the Gunners' history."
Cliff Bastin's Arsenal Goal Scoring Milestones
Cliff Bastin made a big mark in his 11-year career at Arsenal. He set goal-scoring milestones that still stand today. His skill in scoring goals was unmatched, making him a legend among Arsenal's players.
In October 1933, Bastin scored his 100th goal against Aston Villa. This was a big moment for him and the team. He was the top scorer in the 1932-33 and 1933-34 seasons after that.
Bastin kept scoring goals in the 1930s. His 178 goals were the most for Arsenal until Ian Wright beat his record in 1997. This shows how talented and consistent Bastin was for the team.
| Goal Scoring Milestone | Year Achieved |
|---|---|
| 100th Goal for Arsenal | 1933 |
| Arsenal's All-Time Top Scorer | 1997 |
Cliff Bastin's records at Arsenal show his amazing talent and lasting impact. His skill in scoring goals, even as a winger, was key to the team's success in the 1930s.
The Impact of WWII on Bastin's Career
World War II changed Cliff Bastin's football career a lot. He was already slowing down due to an injury in the 1938/39 season. The war stopped him from reaching his full potential as a player.
Bastin was a star in Arsenal's successful 1930s team. They won five league titles and two FA Cups with him. But the war took away his chance to keep scoring goals at the top level.
After the war, Bastin tried to come back, playing in 6 matches for Arsenal in the 1946-47 season. But the cliff bastin world war 2 effect was clear. His earlier injury and the war's impact meant he couldn't be the top scorer he once was.
Bastin's story shows how war can affect athletes' careers. Yet, his achievements in the 1930s with Arsenal are still celebrated. He is seen as one of the club's all-time greats.
Arsenal's Dominance in the 1930s
The 1930s were a golden era for Arsenal Football Club. They became the top team in English football. Cliff Bastin, a winger, was key to their success, helping win five league titles and two FA Cups.
Bastin's amazing goal-scoring was a big reason for Arsenal's dominance in the 1930s. In the 1930/31 season, they scored 127 goals and won the Division One title with 66 points. They were 7 points ahead of Aston Villa. Bastin and David Jack were top scorers, and Arsenal let in just 59 goals all season.
| Season | Arsenal Titles | Bastin's Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 1930/31 | Division One | N/A |
| 1932/33 | Division One | N/A |
| 1933/34 | Division One | N/A |
| 1934/35 | Division One | N/A |
| 1935/36 | FA Cup | N/A |
| 1937/38 | FA Cup | N/A |
Bastin scored 178 goals in 396 games for Arsenal, a record until 1997. His goals made him a key player in Arsenal's 1930s dominance. The club became one of the top teams in English football during this time.
The Gunners' success in the 1930s showed the team's quality and players like Cliff Bastin's brilliance. Their championship triumphs and cup wins set the stage for Arsenal's future success. They became one of the most successful clubs in English football history.
Cliff Bastin's Consistent Goal-Scoring Form
Cliff Bastin was a star at Arsenal, known for his consistent goal-scoring. He scored goals regularly, making him one of the top scorers in the club's history.
He scored over 30 goals in several seasons, helping Arsenal dominate the 1930s. In the 1932-33 season, he scored an amazing 33 goals, a record for a winger.
Bastin's skill in scoring goals was unmatched. He could find space and score, even playing as an outside forward. This skill was key to Arsenal's success, winning five league titles and two FA Cups during his time.
"Cliff Bastin's ability to find the back of the net on a regular basis, despite playing primarily as an outside forward, was a key factor in Arsenal's dominance during the 1930s and cemented his status as one of the club's all-time great goal scorers."
His goal-scoring record has made him a legend at Arsenal. His achievements are unlikely to be beaten by any modern player.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Major Honors | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Bastin | 396 | 178 | N/A | 5 League Titles, 2 FA Cups | £2,000 |
| Freddie Ljungberg | 328 | 72 | 39 | 2 Premier League Titles, 3 FA Cups | N/A |
| Pat Jennings | 285 | N/A | N/A | 1 FA Cup | £45,000 |
| David Seaman | 544 | N/A | N/A | 1 First Division, 2 Premier League Titles, 4 FA Cups, 1 Cup Winners' Cup | £1,300,000 |
| Robert Pires | 284 | 84 | 62 | 2 Premier League Titles, 3 FA Cups, FWA Footballer of the Year (2002) | £6,000,000 |
| Sol Campbell | 211 | 12 | 6 | 2 Premier League Titles, 3 FA Cups | Free Transfer |
| Ian Wright | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Cliff Bastin: The Quintessential Arsenal Legend
Cliff Bastin was a star for Arsenal, known for his goals and long career. He scored 178 goals, a record for nearly 60 years. This shows his lasting impact and makes him one of the Arsenal legends.
Bastin was key to Arsenal's success in the 1930s. He helped the team win five league titles and two FA Cups. His skills on the wing were crucial to their domination.
"Cliff Bastin's name is synonymous with Arsenal's early glory years, and his impact on the club's development into one of England's premier football institutions is immeasurable."
For nearly six decades, Bastin held the Arsenal goal-scoring record. This shows his consistency and skill. He inspired many fans and players with his goals.
Cliff Bastin's legacy as an Arsenal legend is strong. He helped make Arsenal a top team in the 1930s. His goals and dedication have left a lasting mark on the club.
Comparisons to Modern Arsenal Greats
Cliff Bastin played in a different era, but his goal-scoring skills are still impressive when compared to today's Arsenal stars. He held the club's goal-scoring record for nearly 60 years. This record was broken by Ian Wright in 1997 and then by Thierry Henry in 2005. Despite this, Bastin's 178 goals in 396 games show his talent and consistency.
Cliff Bastin vs. Modern Arsenal Greats
Bastin is among Arsenal's top goal scorers, no matter the era. Let's see how his achievements compare with modern stars:
| Player | Goals Scored | Games Played | Goals per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Bastin | 178 | 396 | 0.45 |
| Thierry Henry | 228 | 377 | 0.60 |
| Ian Wright | 185 | 288 | 0.64 |
| Robin van Persie | 132 | 278 | 0.47 |
| Alan Smith | 115 | 347 | 0.33 |
Bastin's goal-scoring rate might not be as high as Henry or Wright's. But, we must think about the game's changes, the era, and the players' positions. His 178 goals in 396 games for Arsenal is an amazing feat. It proves his legacy as a top goal scorer for the club.
"Cliff Bastin was a true goal-scoring machine, and his records stand as a testament to his incredible talent and consistency. While the game has evolved, his place among Arsenal's greatest strikers is cemented forever."
Arsenal's Early Years and Foundation
Cliff Bastin and his Arsenal teammates shone brightly in the 1930s. This was a key time for the club. It started in 1886 by munitions workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. The team faced money problems and almost closed in 1910. But Sir Henry Norris saved it, leading to a new era.
When Norris moved the team to Arsenal Stadium in 1913, it changed everything. It sparked the North London derby with Tottenham Hotspur. This move also drew more fans, with 23,000 attending games, up from 11,000 at the old ground.
In the 1930s, Arsenal became a top team in English football. Cliff Bastin and others were key to this success. With managers like Herbert Chapman and George Allison, they won five First Division titles and two FA Cups. This set the stage for Arsenal's future greatness.
FAQ
Who was Cliff Bastin?
Cliff Bastin was a star goal scorer for Arsenal, holding the club's record for nearly 60 years. He played from 1929 to 1946, scoring 178 goals in 396 games. His goals helped Arsenal dominate English football in the 1930s.
Where was Cliff Bastin born?
Cliff Bastin was born in 1912 in Heavitree, Devon, Exeter.
How did Bastin's career start?
He started with Exeter City, making his debut at 16 in 1928. Despite scoring 6 goals in 17 games, Arsenal's Herbert Chapman noticed his talent. Chapman signed him in 1929.
How did Bastin join Arsenal?
Herbert Chapman saw Bastin in a match against Watford in 1929. Impressed, Chapman brought him to Arsenal. Bastin made his Arsenal debut in October 1929.
What were Bastin's goal-scoring achievements at Arsenal?
In his 11-year Arsenal career, Bastin scored 178 goals in 396 games. This made him one of the club's top scorers, a record he held until Ian Wright broke it in 1997.
How did Bastin contribute to Arsenal's success in the 1930s?
Bastin was key to Arsenal's success in the 1930s. The team won 5 league titles and 2 FA Cups during his time. His goals were crucial to their victories.
What was Bastin's role in the infamous 1938 England vs Germany match?
In 1938, Bastin shone in England's 6-3 win over Germany in Berlin. He scored the first goal and helped set up the second. The game was notable but was marred by the English players' pre-game Nazi salute.
How did Bastin's international career go?
Bastin also had a strong international career with England. He played 21 times between 1931 and 1938, scoring 12 goals. He represented England at the highest level in the 1930s.
How did the war impact Bastin's career?
World War II affected Bastin's career, but he stayed involved in football. He worked as an ARP warden at Arsenal's Highbury stadium and appeared in films during the war.
What happened after the war?
After the war, Bastin briefly played again for Arsenal before retiring in 1947. He then became the landlord of two pubs in Exeter.
How is Bastin's legacy remembered?
Cliff Bastin's legacy lives on. A stand at Exeter City's stadium is named after him. In 2009, he was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to football.
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