‘Inside Cliftonville’ is a new documentary from the Northern Ireland Football league which takes fans behind the scenes of the famous North Belfast club for the first time.
The documentary is the second in the ‘Inside’ series, following the success of last season’s ‘Inside Lisburn Distillery’ film, which is also still available to watch on the NIFL YouTube channel.
Cliftonville is a club steeped in history and tradition, and the film walks viewers through the unique journey of the Club from the early formation through the leaner times until the scenes of wild jubilation as the Reds’ 88 year wait for an Irish League title ended in 1998 and then followed by further success of the remarkable back-to-back titles under the late Tommy Breslin.
There are some great lines. “We went to Portadown in the 40’s and scored six, which was great, but Portadown scored 11.”
The documentary goes access all areas at the oldest football club in Ireland, telling the stories of key people past and present. Follow the journey of new manager Jim Magilton as he looks to forge his own piece of Solitude history and hear how Joe ‘The Goal’ Gormley went from being a fan to becoming the club’s all-time record goalscorer.
With an insider look at all areas of the club Marissa Callaghan gives an insight into the rapid growth of Cliftonville Ladies in their journey from formation to becoming Women’s Premiership champions, whilst Marc Smyth shows how much the Solitude means to the community and young talent, and comedian Tim McGarry speaks emotionally as to what the club means to him and so many others.
“There are so many fascinating stories in the NI Football League but very few as rich and as captivating as Cliftonville’s,” said David Kerr, NIFL Digital Content Lead.
“It’s been a privilege to go behind the curtain at the club and thanks must go to everyone involved at the club for their support and cooperation in bringing this to life.”
“We strive to give fans of all clubs and viewers that haven’t experienced the Irish League a real insight into the people, the places and the passion that makes our league so undeniably special.”
The premiere to Cliftonville players, officials and supporters took place at Solitude last Thursday night, and Inside Cliftonville is now available to view below.
