It
was the first of September and a German battleship was heading for the
“Free City of Danzing” with supposedly a courtesy visit, when it
suddenly opened fire on the Polish garrison marking the beginning of
World War II. The Germans were expecting a fast and decisive victory
that day, but the Polish soldiers at Westerplatte held the Germans for seven
days and finally succumbed to the overwhelming odds do to lack of
ammunition and no re-enforcements.
72
years later the city of Gdansk was under siege once again, but this
time on the football pitch. And once again the Polish troops ran out of
ammo and could not get the victory they so longed for.
For
Poland, Germany has always been their biggest rival. Most would
contribute this to the history between the two nations and although that
is one of the reasons it’s not the biggest. Biggest reason for the
rivalry is the fact that they have never been able to beat the Germans
in the game of football. Not even during the golden age during the 70’s
and early 80’s with players like Grzegosz Lato and Zbigniew Boniek.
In
this latest encounter with the Germans, Poland were half a minute away
from their first victory against their bitter rivals. However, their
defense could not hold on and they gave away the equalizer with only
seconds left in the match.
Hopefully
Poland will have another chance during the upcoming Euro 2012
Championship. Let’s hope they are better prepared and the outcome will
be in their favor.
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