Based on a true incident that happened after the 2020 World cup game in Wembley, though full of football songs, culture and shenanigans this play is as much a contemporary social commentary on masculinity as it is an ode to football.

Alex Hill not only wrote the script but plays the role of football fanatic Billy. His performance today was full of frenetic energy, seeing him bounce and dance across the stage in apparent abandon made me feel a bit exhausted just watching it.  We first encounter Billy as an adult passionately singing the team anthem. The audience are invited to sing along and today many do. There’s a feeling of camaraderie and belonging to the world wide football family forming in the audience. People around me are smiling and definitely identifying with the scene.

However we are soon hearing about Billy as a child who is a bit of an outsider at school but who finds joy and acceptance kicking the ball with his friend Adam and barracking for their beloved team. Their bond continues post school and it is here where the play begins to tease out some of the darker aspects of football – especially hooliganism, violence, alcohol and drug consumption.

The script also has a lot to say about loneliness, male friendships and identity and is balanced by a wry undercurrent of self deprecation.

Hills’ comic timing is on full display and every part of his performance is deliberate and well executed – including plonking himself within the audience and directing audience members to move seats or hold his beer during a scene where he has been encouraged by his father to attend a performance of Les Miserables – on a match day! (His football WhatsApp group are furious!) From the perspective of a non-theatre goer his re-telling of the plot is hilarious– and he appears to have quite enjoyed the play.

Sports lovers will savour the energy and enthusiasm portrayed in this play. If, like me, you are not a sport fan it still has a lot to say and kicks goals on pathos, relevance, comedy and entertainment. Make sure you read what is written on the soccer ball in the final scene – it matters!