Parma Calcio
Words: Owen Bucher
Images: Owen Bucher
Parma. Situated in the historic North-West region of Emilia-Romagna, the home of Apenine Mountains, Parmesan, ancient history and, of course, Parma Calcio.
Like many people, modern stadiums don’t appeal to me. Being a lad from Hereford, I’ve always appreciated older grounds and authentic terrace culture.
One of the grounds I have wanted to tick off most was Ennio Tardini Stadium, home of Parma Calcio 1913. The ground itself is one of the oldest in Italy, opening in 1923 and last developed in the 90’s.
Parma Calcio 1913 was founded in 2015 following the bankruptcy of Parma FC. They gained three promotions in a row from Serie D to Serie A, being the first Italian team to do so.
Going into the game against Modena, Parma were unbeaten at home. They are eyeing promotion to Serie A after losing to Cagliari in the playoffs last season. The match is a bit of a local grudge match between two clubs, both from the Emilia-Romagna region.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
We stood in the Curva Nord, home of the Parma Boys 1977. The winter sun glared down on us. Boys 1977 had banners and flags out to the chants of “Forza ragazzi alè, Forza gialloblù.”
Parma Boys was founded in 1977, offering a new style of supporting the club. Many generations have stood in the Curva Nord, with the group existing for over 45 years. The group doesn’t display political colours and is self-financed when it comes to displays.
The Curva Nord was packed, with an excellent turnout of Ultras and passionate locals. I probably stood out like a sore thumb, being a typical English supporter in my bright coloured C.P. Company Mille Miglia jacket, surrounded by supporters in mostly dark clothing and gialloblù scarfs. I didn’t feel like the home end was as ‘moody’ as some of the ends I’ve experienced in Italy. I didn’t see any political banners and felt generally welcomed.
On the pitch, most of the action happened in the second half. Modena took the lead in the 59th minute, sending the away following of Modena fans situated in the south stand into a frenzy. Flares were thrown on the pitch, making plenty of noise.
The last moments of the match were typical of Italian Football, a Parma penalty saved, a Parma equaliser in added time and a sending-off. Admittedly, as a neutral, I felt Parma had the better of the game. They had the highest possession and shots on target compared to Modena’s one shot on target.
Judging by recent performances, I have no doubt Parma will get promotion to Serie A soon, pleasing fans of a certain age who remember the great sides of the 90’s with Umbro shirts sponsored by Parmalat.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
©Owen Bucher/ Terrace Edition. Parma Calcio 1913.
You can find Owen on Instagram: @herefordonfilm
