Athletic Club present Newcastle Utd with bespoke flag
Athletic Club present Newcastle Utd with bespoke flag
The Lions’ captain gave the flag to a group of Newcastle supporters inside St. James’ Park
Iker Muniain, on behalf of Athletic Club, presented Newcastle United fans with a flag made to celebrate the unique connection between Athleticzales and the Magpies.
The 3x2 metre flag contains the crests of both clubs inside a small Ikurriña set against a background of black and white stripes, while underneath there is a message which reads: “In honour of the bond between Newcastle United and Athletic Club. UEFA Cup. October 18 (St James’ Park) – November 1 (San Mamés), 1994. FOR WOR FRIENDS”
Wor Flags – the Newcastle Utd fan group in charge of raising and maintaining flag displays at St. James’ Park – accepted the gesture on behalf of the club and have repaid Athletic with a banner which was visible throughout the friendly and contains the words “Ongi Etorri, Lehoiak” (Welcome, Lions).
Ever since the famous UEFA Cup tie in 1994/95, which has legendary status in Bilbao thanks to the way fans joined together in festive spirit before the second leg, supporters of both clubs have maintained a unique connection thanks to the similarities between their cities and beloved teams.
Athletic’s flag was unfurled at St James’ Park just minutes before kick-off while the starting XIs were leaving the tunnel and taking to the pitch.