A review by allbythebook
The Grudge: Two Nations, One Match, No Holds Barred by Tom English

funny informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

4.0

 The Grudge by Tom English is a gorgeous look at the rugby, the people and the politics that led to the Grand Slam-deciding Calcutta Cup showdown between Scotland and England in 1990. This one is 4⭐️ from me.

This was the first Tom English book I'd read, and I was really blown away by the style of this. Not only does the book describe the Five Nations Grand Slam Decider match at Murrayfield between Scotland and England, but it also goes into depth of the political background of the time, the biography of many of the players and coaches, the build-up over several years as well as the rest of the Five Nations fixtures. This book uses direct quotes from the players and coaches involved, from contemporary media people and rival nations' teams, as well as a historical approach, and a real storytelling description based both from eyewitness accounts and recorded footage. The style of this book was amazing and made me feel like I knew the people involved. 

The match itself I had known about beforehand, but the depth of the history and biography I absolutely didn't, and I was really gripped discovering it all. Some of my favourites included Brian Moore, John Jeffrey and Jim Telfer, who gave fantastic accounts. 

Definitely read this if you're interested in old school, amateur-era rugby, and the history of some of the most towering legends of the sport in Scotland and England.