BRENTFORD - Griffin Park 29 March 1952

Biggest optimist in London was Mr. K. E. Tarratt, of Horsham, Sussex. After three inspections of the pitch at Griffin Park he decided, as referee, that this match could be played — to the amazement of everyone, and, in particular, West Ham. For they had delayed their departure until being told by telephone that the match was on.
Then they made a mad dash by coach across London, the players changing en route, and arrived a few minutes before the kick-off. 
Brave Mr. Tarratt sent the teams out into the near-blizzard to kick off in three inches of snow. It was obvious to everyone but Mr. Tarratt that the game had little chance of being completed.
But by half-time when conditions had Improved a little it seemed the game would go on — it was then that Mr. Tarratt decided to abandon the game because "the touch lines were obliterated."
As for the game, all 22 players were wonder men, striving hard to master the nigh impossible conditions in which a, full-blooded kick would send the ball only a few yards before sticking in the snow. Of the two teams, West Ham, using their wingers well, always looked more dangerous and fully deserved to take the lead in the 17th minute. Half-back Moroney, making his debut as centre-forward, moved over to the left wing and screwed a brilliant shot into the corner of the net.
Earlier, Barratt had gone through, dribbled round the goalkeeper Newton, and then lost the ball as it stuck in the snow, thus enabling Bragg to clear.
Brentford, overdoing their close-passing in the thick- snow, worked hard, constantly feeding Tommy Lawton, and in the 25th minute Bowie was brought down in the penalty area.
Freddie Monk made no mistake from the spot. Then came half-time and the prospect of an exciting second half, and at this belated moment Mr. Tarratt abandoned the game.

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