Ep 2. North West

In season 1 episode 2 of The Real Football Factories, viewers follow host and former Chelsea Headhunter member, Danny Dyer, as he explores the North West of England and investigates the fierce football rivalries that exist.

The episode begins with Dyer in Blackburn where he meets up with an ex-member of Blackburn Rovers' firm, the Inter City Jibbers. The Jibbers were one of the most notorious firms in the country during the 80s and 90s, and Dyer gets firsthand accounts of their violent encounters with other firms.

Next, Dyer travels to Manchester, a city known for having some of the most passionate football fans in the world. He meets Colin Blaney, a former member of the infamous Manchester United firm, the Red Army. Blaney describes the intense hatred between United and Manchester City fans and the violent clashes that occurred during the 70s and 80s.

Dyer also spends time with a group of Manchester City supporters known as the Guvnors. The Guvnors have a reputation for being one of the most loyal and dedicated groups of fans in the country. They explain to Dyer that their love for the club extends beyond football and is a key part of their identity.

The episode then takes viewers to Liverpool, where Dyer meets with a former member of the Everton firm, the County Road Cutters. The Cutters were known for their intense rivalry with Liverpool's firm, the Urchins, and Dyer hears stories about the violent clashes between the two groups.

Dyer also meets with members of the Liverpool fan group, the Spirit of Shankly. The group was formed in response to Liverpool's takeover by American owners in 2007 and has been a vocal critic of the way the club has been run. The Spirit of Shankly describe themselves as a force for positive change and Dyer learns about their efforts to improve the matchday experience for fans.

Finally, the episode takes viewers to Blackpool, where Dyer meets with a group of supporters known as the Seaside Mafia. The Seaside Mafia follow Blackpool FC, a small club with a dedicated fanbase. Dyer learns that even at the lower levels of English football, rivalries can be intense and sometimes violent.

Throughout the episode, Dyer provides commentary and insight into the world of football violence. He speaks with former hooligans, football club officials, and fans to gain a better understanding of the culture behind the violence. The episode serves as a reminder of how football can bring communities together, but also how it can divide them.