Ep 2. Hillsborough

On episode 2 of season 1 of the show 30 for 30: Soccer Stories, viewers are taken back to April 15, 1989, when the Hillsborough tragedy occurred. The episode, titled "Hillsborough," covers the events leading up to the disaster as well as the aftermath of the tragedy.

The episode begins by examining the state of football in the 1980s, including the rampant hooliganism and the inadequate facilities at many stadiums. The focus then shifts to Hillsborough Stadium, the home of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, where the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest was scheduled to take place.

Viewers are introduced to some of the fans who attended the match, including those who never made it home. The episode explores the events that led to the crush in the stadium's Leppings Lane end, including the decision to allocate only one turnstile for the thousands of Liverpool supporters who were attending the match. There are survivor testimonials and scenes of the tragedy that are difficult to watch but give the audience a clear sense of the chaos and danger that hundreds of fans endured.

The episode examines the subsequent investigation and the media coverage of the disaster, including the infamous headline in The Sun newspaper that blamed Liverpool fans for the tragedy. The show also examines the role of the police on the day, the failures of the emergency services, and the shocking revelation that over 160 police statements regarding the disaster had been altered.

As the episode continues, viewers learn about the tireless efforts of the Hillsborough Family Support Group in seeking justice for the victims and their families. The episode contrasts the lengths to which the authorities went in order to cover up their own mistakes, with the paths that the families took in seeking accountability and redress. It does not shy away from the fact that the fight for justice was a lengthy and emotional one, but it highlights the sheer courage and resilience of the families in the face of long-term heartache.

This episode of 30 for 30: Soccer Stories leaves no stone unturned in its exploration of the Hillsborough tragedy. Providing a thorough and thought-provoking examination of the disaster from different angles, it's clear that the aim was to shed light on a tragedy that had touched lives all over. The episode provides a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and grounded in fact, allowing the viewer to gain a deeper understanding not only of what went wrong at Hillsborough but also of why it was so important that justice be served. This episode is both a sobering reminder of the tragedy of Hillsborough and a testament to the courage and determination of those who sought the truth.

Overall, this episode of 30 for 30: Soccer Stories is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in football or who has an interest in how the quest for truth and justice can shape society. The lesson of Hillsborough is one that resonates with audiences, not just in Britain but all over the world, and this episode of 30 for 30: Soccer Stories ensures that the tragedy will not be forgotten.