Ep 4. Episode 4

The English Game season 1 follows the origin of football back in the 19th century and the dramatic changes brought by professionalism and class division, as well as highlighting the clash between different football styles and their main adjectives, whether they are physical, technical, or strategic. In Episode 4, the excitement resides in the final game of the FA Cup, which grants the winning club prestige and recognition. But the drama isn't limited to the players' performance on the field and the euphoric reactions of the supporters in the stands.

As the match between the Old Etonians and Blackburn Rovers kicks off, alliances and strategies are put to the test and team captains are faced with difficult decisions that will impact the game's outcome. On the one hand, Arthur Kinnaird, one of the club's founders, and captain of the Old Etonians, struggles to maintain control over his team as injuries and fatigue weigh down his players. On the other hand, the rugged but skillful Blackburn Rovers are more than eager to take advantage of their opponent's weakness and impose themselves in the game. As a result, the stats rise, the pressure mounts, and the coaches yell instructions from the sidelines.

However, the match isn't the only battlefield in the episode. The social and cultural context is thick with tension between the different classes and the increasing influence of money in the game. While the Old Etonians represent the upper class and rely on their connections to fund the club and ensure their victory, Blackburn Rovers epitomizes the hard-working coal-miners who have struggled to make ends meet but possess an indomitable spirit and enough skills to compete at the highest level. Their humble origins and crude style of play clash with the gentlemanly attitude of the Old Etonians, leading to some heated moments on and off the field.

Furthermore, the episode focuses on the relationship between Fergus Suter and Martha, the latter being a performing dancer who caught Fergus's eyes after his arrival in Darwen. As their attraction grew stronger, they faced disapproval and criticism from Martha’s employer and the community, who deemed their relationship socially unacceptable. While Fergus tried to convince Martha’s mother of his good intentions, the pressure of the moment forced Martha to question whether their relationship was meant to be.

The English Game season 1 episode 4 manages to blend emotion, rivalry, and history in an engaging way as it delves into the world of football in its early stages and how the sport became a symbol of national identity. It creates a palpable tension that reflects not only the drama of the game but also the ongoing conflict between the players' different goals and values. With its stunning visuals and talented cast, The English Game holds up to all the expectations.