Alf Sherwood facts for kids

Alfred Thomas Sherwood (born November 13, 1923 – died March 12, 1990) was a famous Welsh footballer. He played for the Welsh national team 41 times between 1947 and 1957. His first game for Wales was on his 23rd birthday in 1946, against England.

People called him the "King of the sliding tacklers." He was known for being super fast and great at tackling. He also had an amazing sense of where to be on the field. Even legendary English player Stanley Matthews said Alf was the toughest opponent he ever faced! Alf Sherwood also proudly captained Wales to a big win against England in 1955.

Early Life and Beginnings

Growing Up in Aberaman

Alf Sherwood was born in a place called North View Terrace. This was very close to the football ground of his hometown club, Aberaman Athletic. As a young boy, Alf was a talented athlete.

Playing for Wales as a Youth

He played for Wales as a youth international in two different sports. These sports were football and cricket. He played alongside other future stars like Trevor Ford and Gilbert Parkhouse.

Becoming a Bevin Boy

Later, during World War II, Alf became one of the "Bevin Boys." This was a special program. Young men aged 18 to 25 were asked to work as miners. This helped the country during the war.

Football Career Highlights

Joining Cardiff City

Alf Sherwood joined Cardiff City in 1942. He came from Aberaman Athletic. The manager, Cyril Spiers, was very impressed with him. This happened during a friendly match played in wartime.

Switching Positions

Alf first played as a wing half. But during a game against Lovells Athletic, Cardiff City needed more defenders. So, Alf was moved to play as a full-back. He was so good at this new position that he played there for the rest of his career!

Wartime and League Success

He played in 140 wartime games for Cardiff City. When the Football League started again in 1946–47, Alf played almost every match. His team finished first in the Third Division South that season.

Becoming Captain

Alf formed a strong defensive team with Ron Stitfall. In the 1951–52 season, Alf Sherwood became the captain of Cardiff City. He led the team back to the First Division that same year.

Amazing Goalkeeping Moment

Alf Sherwood was also a stand-in goalkeeper for his club and country. This was because there were no substitutes back then. His most famous moment as a goalkeeper was on April 17, 1954. This was during a match against Liverpool.

The main goalkeeper, Ron Howells, broke his thumb. Alf took over in goal. He faced a penalty kick from Scottish star Billy Liddell. Alf made an incredible double save! This helped make sure Liverpool was relegated.

Leaving Cardiff and Playing for Newport

Alf became one of Cardiff City's top players for appearances. In 1956, at age 33, he left the club. He joined Newport County. Many people thought he was too old. But he proved them wrong! He played over 200 games for Newport. He also earned his last two Wales caps while playing there.

Later Career and Recognition

In 1957, he was chosen to play for the Third Division South representative team. After leaving Newport in 1961, he had a short time as a player-manager for Barry Town. In 2006, Alf Sherwood was honored. He was inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame.

Life After Football

After he stopped playing football, Alf worked for the National Coal Board. He was a security officer. He sadly passed away from a heart attack on March 10, 1990. This happened at the Llantrisant & Pontyclun golf club.

Honours

Cardiff City

• Football League Division Three South Winner: 1

1946–47

• Football League Division Two Runner-up: 1

1951–52