A new sculpture honoring one of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ most historic victories was unveiled on Friday, December 13. Crafted from steel and adorned with gold leaf, the sculpture commemorates the famous 1954 match where Wolves overcame a 2-0 deficit to defeat Hungarian champions Budapest Honvéd 3-2. The victory, watched by nearly 60,000 fans, was a defining moment for the club and played a crucial role in the development of European football, ultimately leading to the creation of the European Cup.
Reverend Andrew Cullis, the son of former Wolves manager Stan Cullis, reflected on the significance of the match in an interview with the BBC. He revealed that the game meant a great deal to his father, who was deeply moved by the victory. “Interestingly, I think he shed a tear after the win, which was very rare for him,” Reverend Cullis noted. Stan Cullis, who passed away in 2001, had previously led Wolves to their first league titles in the 1950s.
The sculpture, designed by Luke Perry, an artist from the West Midlands, captures the essence of that historic match. Perry worked closely with the club and its supporters to create a piece that honors not only the game but also the pivotal role Wolves played in the early years of European club competitions.
Perry expressed his pride in creating the sculpture for his local team, acknowledging the special place the match holds in the hearts of Wolves fans. “It’s an honor to bring this moment to life, especially with the emotional connection the supporters have to the game,” he said. “The match featured iconic figures like goalkeeper Bert Williams, and his flat cap is such a memorable image. I hope this sculpture becomes a beloved symbol of that unforgettable moment in the club’s rich history.”
