Tiger 9th November 1974

 We have an uneven issue on our hands this week. Some stories are improving, some are getting worse, and a couple are at the other end of the scale - almost touching excellence. I don't mind that too much - I would rather have a few excellent stories and some poor ones rather than a comic full of bland middle-of-the-road strips. So, who has scaled the heights in my opinion, and who is sliding down the charts - read on to see who is top of the pops in Tiger this week.  

9th November 1974

Billy's Boots

Billy Dane failed to impress the scout the last time he played, but this week he has been given a second chance and a trial with Groundwood Town FC. 

In usual Billy style, he gets off to a bad start as one of the other players mocks him for the old boots he has. Things escalate quickly, and his new nemesis Stan Thomson throws his boots over the fence and out of the ground. 

Billy runs to retrieve them, which takes some time as they are caught in a hedge, and by the time he gets back the trial has started without him. The scout is angry with his lateness, and Billy is told he can come on at half-time. 

At half-time he comes on as centre forward for the B team, only to find himself up against Stan Thomson, who just so happens to be the best defender in the squad. 

Billy reads the game well and gets into the right positions, but Stan is too strong and knocks him easily off the ball. This changes as the strip reaches its climax. Billy beats him with a nutmeg and instead of going for goal he turns around and beats him a second time before finally scoring. This infuriates Stan, who promises that Billy won't get away with making him look like an idiot.

Nothing unexpected here, and it is everything a Billy's Boots story should be. We had the prerequisite of Billy losing his boots before the game, only to have them restored in time to impress on the pitch. We also had the boots moving him into the right positions, as well as doing something unexpected when the time came. None of it was surprising, and I enjoyed the familiarity of it all. Once again Billy feels very much like a boy, and although he has magic boots, is one of the most relatable characters in Tiger. Difficult to give this a rating as everything was comfortable, but some days that is exactly what I need.

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "What's Dane doing now? He's passed Thomson...but now he's turning..."

Roy Of The Rovers

With the tempestuous history between Tony Storme and Archie Miller, the two respective managers of Melchester Rovers and Carford City, the game between the teams in the Cup Winners Cup looks as though it could be a stormy affair.

And so it proves, with Roy subjected to a heavy tackle early on that results in a yellow card to a Carford City player, and a freekick that Blackie lines up from the edge of the box.

With Roy breaking from the Carford City wall, Blackie can slot home the goal through the gap created. It's a clever play and Archie Miller takes it personally. 

So much so that he makes an immediate substitution. On comes Cruncher Coggin, a player he uses when he wants to take out an opposing player - in this case, Roy Race. Roy is wise to this, but still Coggin nails him with an early foul and continues with petty fouls despite a warning from the ref.

Things climax when Roy finally slips past him and manages a shot on goal. It is well saved by the keeper with a dive and it seems that Roy has the upper hand. However, Coggin nails him good and proper from behind with a foul that has the crowd shouting for Coggin to be sent off. 

Especially incensed is Tony Storme, who yells at Archie Miller that it is his fault and he did it on purpose. Archie Miller is having none of it and the strip ends with Miller striding aggressively towards the Melchester manager. 

Another excellent instalment of this story. It has been building up wonderfully, and every page seems to ratchet up the tension further. We had a fine balance between the on-field action and the off-field drama, and the way one fed the other was well done. Roy dominated the football scenes (it is his name in the title after all) but I was pleased to see Blackie Grey back in action and scoring the goal. Lots of positives, with a clean storyline that made sense and some artwork that flowed naturally from this idea. A solid showing, and one of the better stories this week. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "You hot-headed fool, Miller! Stop using this game to work off your grudge against me, before someone is seriously hurt!"

Martin's Marvellous Mini 

Racing across the outback against giant trucks, Martin and Tiny are using George's small size to their advantage, taking an alternative route that has led them into an area of large boulders. They are equal to the task and the hazard is soon negotiated before the next problem arises. 

A river needs crossing, but its investigations show it is too deep for George to cross. Not so for the trucks they are racing against, and the thunder through with ease. 

Martin and Tiny are forced to drive along the bank to find a suitable spot to cross. They find one part of the river where it narrows, and we are treated to the sight of George jumping across the river and successfully landing on the other side. 

It looks like the drama may be over, but our pals see the other races driving in the opposite direction. It soon becomes apparent why when they come across a bushfire. Not only that, but the bushfire is heading directly for a farmhouse where the occupants are completely unaware.

Great to see the boys back in colour, and this added an extra dimension that the story has been lacking the last few weeks. We didn't get as much chumminess as usual, although there was some gentle banter between Tiny and Martin that was familiar. I'm not yet totally on board with race, it still feels one-sided and I'm not quite sure why the boys would want to be involved. On the other hand, it does offer some great set pieces, and we are already veering off into new territory with the fire. Next week should see the story develop further, and I will be interested to see where they take this next.

Rating: 6.5/10

Best line: "This won't do the suspension much good!" 

Nipper

Nipper is a man with a mission, and his fuming face is how we begin this week's strip as he storms off to confront the reporter Brian Crawford. 

Arriving at the newspaper office things escalate quickly. As angry Nipper finds not  Brian Crawford, but rather his elderly editor Phineas Cringle. Phineas defends his reporter, but Nipper refuses to calm down and things become heated. It climaxes with Nipper pushing the editor to the ground before a punch-up develops between Nipper and the other staff in the office. 

A wild punch sends Nipper reeling to the ground and at that moment he sees Brian Crawford's office. He dives into the office seeking Crawford, while the staff lock him in there and call the police. We finish with Nipper finally smiling as he sees a photograph in the office that may explain why Brian Crawford is having a go at him. 

Drama aplenty, and a brawl at the newspaper office was not quite what I expected as I started this strip. An angry confrontation was on the cards, but I didn't expect it to develop in the way that it did. I don't normally condone violence, but I thought the fight was great and I enjoyed seeing Nipper's rage boil over. Perhaps it's because I could never do such a thing in real life, I enjoyed seeing someone else live out my fantasy. There was a lot of humour in these pages, something that I perhaps haven't given it enough credit for. It lightened the tone and offset the on-page action of the fistfight. Aside from the fight, this humour was a real highlight and something I would like to see much more often through the strip. We are away from the the football field, but the strip is giving us plenty of action and with the wider storyline developing we still have some way to go. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Then lock the door behind him...and telephone the police! I...I'll have that little hooligan charged with assault!" 

Skid Solo

Skid has left Los Angeles since last week's adventure and is now heading south to take part in a race in Mexico. He has to get there first and the story begins with them struggling to navigate their way across the border. Sandy is in charge of the map and looking for the turn-off that will get them there. The next road on the left is marked as "to border" and Sandy instructs Skid to take it. 

The road runs mile after mile, with no sign of the border in sight. We have a lot of arguing among the three about Sandy's map reading skills, but Sandy is adamant they are on the right route. 

They come to an abandoned village, with a large warning that it is a target area and to stay out after November 1st. Before they have a chance to do so, three US jets appear in the sky above them, and soon Skid is driving for his life to avoid the rockets being fired from above. 

They escape after several close calls, and soon find a road that leads in the right direction. They are still bickering about Sandy's map reading, but the strip ends by showing us that Sandy and his map were right. The map did say to border, but what Sadny didn't know was that Border was the name of the township used as a target.

An unusual Skid Solo story, I quite enjoyed it. It was fresh, and I appreciated the artwork featuring the aircraft. I have seen similar tales told in short story form, but seeing it in comic form was new to me. It gave us another look at the dynamics between the three men, and the constant arguing was amusing throughout. I like their friendship as much as the racing on the track, and this was highlighted throughout these two pages. Next week we should get back to some racing, in Mexico no less, and hopefully they will retain this strong human element throughout. 

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "I'm reading this map, aren't I, mon? It says right here..." to border"! And that's the road we're on!" 

Hot-shot Hamish 

Having lost the rest of his team, Hamish is now trying to hitch-hike home,. It looks pleasant enough, and the strip begins with a couple of locals sharing food and lemonade with Hamish. 

Football rudely interrupts this lunch, as some local lads kicking a ball around encroach on the picnic. 

Hamish joins them and showing some of his professional skills attracts the attention of other villagers. He is quickly invited to play for the village team in an upcoming match that evening. Hamish readily agrees and although the other team oppose his inclusion he is soon kitted out and ready to go. 

He is immediately a target as the other village resents his inclusion, and after being heavily knocked into the ground Hamish can only watch on as they score. He is far from happy, and the strip ends as he promises to himself to fight fire with fire. 

Another delightful strip set in Spain, and although the football all happened on the second page, it was the first page and Hamish interacting with the locals that had me hooked. It all looked so pleasant, and I could easily imagine myself being part of such a scene. In fact, in my travels I have often found myself abroad in a small village kicking a ball around with the locals - it truly is a global game. Back in the pages of Tiger, Hamish's time in Spain may not go much beyond this game as Mr. McWhacker is already making plans to bring him back. I hope Hamish gets to stay on at least a little longer. The warmth of Spain and the strip is just the tonic to get through winter here, and I'm in no hurry to get back to Scotland and Princes Park.  

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Och, ye're great pals! Ye're as good as Scotsmen...and they're the best in the world!" 

Johnny Cougar

Johnny Cougar is still in the woods with Robin Good as the story further develops with the capture of a lorry. Stripping it of all valuables, the outlaws leave the lorry and the tied-up driver and retreat into the forest. They know the police will be searching for it and plan on being far away by the time it is found. Sure enough, the police are pouring resources into the woods in their search, and even enlist a helicopter to help. 

In another part of the forest, the outlaws are happy with the raid and now have enough supplies for many months. It's now time for a little play. Robin Good challenges Johnny with his bow and arrow and delivers a fine shot that splits a sapling. Johnny points out that he was brought up with the bow and arrow and betters Robin Good by splitting his arrow in half with his shot. Far from being upset, Robin Good is delighted and tells Johnny he is a good fit for the outlaw outlaw band. 

The following week there were more raids by the outlaws, now concentrating on money-carrying vehicles. Using explosives to blow the trucks open, the outlaws are grabbing as many riches as they can. However, Johnny has been formulating a plan while watching these attacks and is now ready to start fighting back. 

I'm finally on board with this storyline, and this was the most enjoyable episode yet. Given that there was no wrestling, this was surprising. We had plenty of good moments to fill the void and seeing Johnny with a bow and arrow in hand was an unexpected treat. I feel I have adapted to the story rather than the story changed in any way. Perhaps sometimes we just need to live with a story for a while before we get it. Of course, having such wonderful art each week certainly helps and this was another issue crammed full of visual treats. Now that I'm in sync with the story I look forward to reading next week and seeing Johnny fighting back. 

Rating: 7.5/10

Best line: "Miserable dog! You are common thieves...so you will pay the penalty for your evil ways!"

Tallon Of The Track

The Ospreys are all ready to fly to Australia this week, but there is one small twist before they can board the plane to the sunny climes of Aussie - they are suddenly offered an all-expenses trip to Russia. 

Some members of the team are interested in this counteroffer, and they put it to a vote. With the voting tied at four apiece between the two destinations, Jo decides the best way to settle the matter is on the track with a race between her and Dave to decide where they'll be travelling. 

It is a close race, and Dave looks to have it sewn up, especially after Jo's goggles are smashed by a stray stone. However, she is tenacious and doesn't let up a bit, managing to pip Dave on the line. With the race won it is decided - the team is off to Russia. 

This was unexpected, and I wonder why it was suddenly decided that the story wouldn't go down the route of an Australian trip. Perhaps it is because Martin and Tiny are already there with Martin's Marvellous Mini. Russia has a story potential, but this issue felt like a waste. It was an issue dedicated to changing the story direction, and although the race was fine, I don't read Tallon Of the Track each week to watch Jo and Dave race each other to make decisions. I wasn't the slightest bit invested in this story, and I can only hope that we get a major storyline once they reach Russia.

Rating: 4/10

Best line:  "To reach a decision I'll race against you! Four laps of the track -  the winner to say which offer we'll accept!"     

Issue final ratings:

Overall: 7/10

Best Story: Nipper 

Best Line: "Ye say Hamish has left the hotel...wi-oot his passport? Wi-oot the money I left him? He's hitch-hiking back? Och, the idiot's taken leave o' his senses!"

Best Panel:

Roy's Sports Quiz:

Tiger 2nd November 1974

I have been happy with the introduction of new football stories to Tiger. Last week I enjoyed them all, and this week I found they overshadowed the older stories in Tiger. I enjoy the balance of sports strips in Tiger, but right now it's football that is doing the heavy lifting. Skid Solo was strong in this issue, but Hot-shot Hamish, Nipper, and Roy of the Rovers were all outstanding. As a football and comic fan, I couldn't be happier right now. As much as I enjoyed A Horse Called Ugly and The Tigers, the current crop of stories has my heart - long may it continue. 

2nd  November 1974

Johnny Cougar

My opinion of the Johnny Cougar and Robin Good storyline improves after seeing it in colour on the front cover of the issue. Resplendent in his green top and scarlet tights, Robin Good looks the part, and a powerful-looking Johnny Cougar throwing him across the ring adds to the drama of the image. 

Within the comic, the wrestling match continues apace. Nothing we haven't seen before and after a page of back and forth Johnny has triumphed.

It is a hollow victory, Robin's men outside the ring are keeping watch and although Johnny wins the bout, he is still forced to follow Robin Good's orders. With Splash still held hostage, Johnny has no choice but to go along with Good's plan and hope there is a chance later for him to make his move. 

Robin Good's plan is simple. There is a road running through the forest and on this road travel many lorries with valuable items. Robin intends on stopping one of these lorries and robbing it of its contents.

This plan is quickly put into effect, and an unsuspecting driver soon finds himself at the end of a sword point as Robin proclaims he is the first victim of the outlaws of the forest.

I liked that this story moved quickly along. The setup in the last couple of weeks wasn't to my taste and it is pleasing to see a fuller story appear that doesn't dwell too much on the silliness.  A good villain, Johnny waiting for his moment, and Splash in peril, the story is delicately placed. There was plenty to enjoy on the page here and we have a great hook to bring us back next week. Several panels here jump out at me as favourites, and I am surprised to find I'm enjoying this much more than I should. 

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "Wake up...Robin Good demands it!"

Billy's Boots

Poor Billy. His big chance to play in front of a scout, and he's forced to wear a normal pair of boots. Without his ancient boots, he is half the player and the first half of the game is cringe-worthy as Billy plays rubbish, including missing a shot at goal just before halftime. 

The scout has seen enough and at halftime he leaves. It's a shame, for at halftime Billy changes his boots. The inevitable happens, and in the second half he plays a blinder. Tackling an opposition player, he dribbles towards goal before setting up his own man to score. He follows this by scoring a goal of his own, before making it a brace with a headed goal in the final minutes. 

Later that day at Groundwood FC the scout is told of Billy's exploits in the second half, scoring two and making the third. The scout is surprised, yet willing to give Billy a second chance with an invite to trial at Wednesday's game. 

The scout is more forgiving than me, and based on Billy's performance in the first half there was no way I would have given him a second chance. Literally a game of two halves, this was entertaining throughout, although I often why Billy's teammates don't question why his play is so hot and cold. When he is good he is very good, but when he is bad he is horrid. With boots in hand, however, the balance is restored for the forthcoming trial game, and I await with interest to see how Billy will manage to misplace or lose them before game day. 

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "Whoever said this kid, Dane, was good...didn't know what he was talking about! Look at that! He missed the ball completely!" 

Roy Of The Rovers 

Melchester Rovers are running riot against Branfield. Roy scores a goal from a free kick which puts them three-nil up, and there is time for another before the referee finally blows his whistle at four-nil. 

This is merely the backdrop to the real story which is the next game in the European Cup Winners Cup. Tony Storme comes out looking in a state of shock and when probed tells the team that they have drawn Carford in the next round, and a showdown against the Carford manager Archie Miller. 

As Roy drives Jimmy Slade home we find out the reason for the tensions between Tony Storme and Archie Miller. It all springs from an event six years ago, when Tony Storme was playing for his club, Walford. With the English selectors in attendance, he needed a good game to secure his first English cap. Archie Miller was in the opposition team, with his position in the English team under threat from Tony Storme. Tony Storme was in possession when Archie Miller hit him with a bad tackle, so bad it ended Tony's career. 

Although Miller claimed it was an accident, many saw it as a deliberate act to save his English place. The bad publicity also had a negative effect on Archie Miller's career, and he retired shortly after and turned to management. That too has been fraught and he hasn't had much league success as Carford is struggling at the bottom of the second division. 

The game is seen as a chance for revenge for both managers, and as they emerge from the tunnel on game day both are stony-faced and can't even look at each other. The game kicks off as some of the onlookers speculate that this could become rough and someone may get sent off.

An excellent, and believable, football story. Adding some backstory for Tony Storme was a good touch and helped round out an already solid character. Likewise with his opposing number Archie Miller. Their introduction last week was a little on the nose and this week helped readdress the balance. The flashback worked well, as did having Roy explain it to Jimmy Slade. A very solid storyline, and one I hope will be kept up for the coming weeks. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Gosh, Roy! Are you saying that Miller nailed Tony deliberately...to save his England place?" 

Hot-shot Hamish 

The homemade medicine given to restore Hamish after he accidentally knocked himself out is working beyond all expectations. Hamish is steaming about the field against the Spanish team, calling for the ball at every opportunity. 

Hamish is lining up his hot-shot once again when he suddenly collapses. The local who gave him the medicine explains that it works well on his horses, but perhaps it is too strong for humans. It looks as if Hamish will now be asleep until the next day, and he is stretchered off the field and back to his hotel bed. 

The next morning Hamish is still asleep and no one can shake him awake. Leaving him to it, the manager leaves his passport and airline ticket inside the bed along with a message in an envelope. 

Waking up late, Hamish accidentally knocks the envelope unseen into the waste paper bin. In the lobby, he is told the team has left without him, and Mr McWhacker has said that he will find his own way back when he wakes up.

Hamish is confused by this and strides outside on his own wondering what he will do next. Half an hour after leaving, the staff find his envelope with the message, passport and tickets. It's too late, but they think that he will return soon to collect it. However, Hamish is unaware of all of this and is right now hitching a lift on the back to a lorry bound for Madrid. 

A mildly amusing story, softly told, it warmed the cockles of my heart to see Hamish in Spain. The opening page of football action wasn't what I expected, and the meat of the story was the second page when Hamish was abandoned at the hotel. The imagery captured it all perfectly, and the best panel for my money was the one when he first walks out of the hotel on his own. The shaky old lorry taking him to Madrid was also well-drawn and captured the spirit of the whole strip in a single panel. Low on drama, but lovely to look at and read this is just the tonic after a tough day at work. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Excuse me, mon...but where's ma football team? I cannae find them anywhere!" 

Skid Solo 

Skid Solo is certainly well connected and this week he and his team have an all-expenses paid trip to California to stay at the home of American millionaire J.J. Sapperton.  

Picked up from the airport by a chauffeured driven car they are soon sitting poolside with J.J., Sapperton, while his daughter swims laps. Sapperton offers them a couple of options for the afternoon, they can stay here and swim, go for a trip around the estate, or go diving with his daughter Muriel. 

Skid and Sparrow elect to go for a trip around the estate, while Sandy decides he would like to go diving with Muriel. He is teased about this by Sparrow, but as Sandy points out, it's not a crime to enjoy the company of lovely young ladies. 

Skid and Sparrow have a great time touring the estate in a dune buggy, Sapperton's land stretches all the way to the mountains and there are cattle grazing on a lot of it. Coming over a hill, Skid and Sparrow see a couple of parachutists coming down. One of them is in trouble with the wind blowing him around, and Skid drives quickly in the buggy towards the lake, arriving just as the parachutist snags in a tree and then crashes into the water.

Skid and Sparrow are surprised when it is Sandy that emerges from the lake. The diving that that girl promised wasn't what he expected - it was skydiving, a revelation we end the strip with. 

A sweet little story, there were many things I liked about it. Once again it features a woman, something we are seeing more often in Skid Solo. This makes it feel less like a boys club and positions the strip closer to the real world. I also enjoyed the hint that Sandy was romantically interested in her, something we don't usually see in Tiger asides from Roy and Penny. The rough time Sparrow gave Sandy was believable and would have spoken to any young man reading the strip. I know it's certainly what I would have done at the time. No car racing, but plenty of human interaction, this is another case of the strip rounding out the character of Skid and his friends, and it only adds to the involvement of the reader when the racing season comes back around. 

Rating: 7.5/10

Best line: "Oooh! I never knew you went out with girls, Sandy!"

Nipper

Nipper is about to face the wrath of his manager as he comes off the field at half-time, with his drive for the goal-scoring record foremost on everyone's mind. 

Nipper apologises straight away, pointing out that it's the schoolboy fans who are yelling about the record, not him. In the dressing room, Nipper pulls out the newspaper, showing the team that it's all Brain Crawford's, the reporter, fault for building it up to something it's not. 

Andy Stewart resents being spoken to like that, and it's only intervention from other team members that prevents things from escalating. Stewart agrees that Crawford needs a talking to and Nipper is off the hook for now. 

Back out for the second half, Nipper has a point to prove. He is fired up, but so too are the Sandford players, and for all Nipper's efforts, all he gets is harder and harder tackles. Eventually, he has taken so many knocks that all Andy Stewart can do is pull him off.

Nipper doesn't wait around to speak to the other players. He quickly grabs his clothes and heads out of the stadium with nothing but the thought of sorting out Brian Crawford for once and for all. 

All the football stories this week are strong, and this is another example. Perhaps my bias towards football is showing but they do seem to be half a step ahead of everything else. I am actively engaged with this storyline and I am intrigued to see how it will play out. The on-field action is fine, buts it is the close-up of the faces that sell the story to me, and seeing plenty of Nipper's stormy face and the granite Andy Stewart spoke to me just as much as anything that happened with a football. Next week I expect a showdown, and can't wait to see the expressions of all those involved.

Rating: 7.5/10

Best line: "No thanks, Ron! A few bruises never hurt anyone! Besides, I'm in a hurry..!"

Tallon Of The Track

One heat down, and the scores are level between Ospreys and Marsden. Jo Tallon is already gloomy, with many reserves in the team she is concerned that Marsden will slowly take them apart. 

By the end of twelve heats, this hasn't eventuated and the Ospreys lead by thirty-seven points to thirty-five. With a trip to Australia on the line, Jo can barely watch the final race. It is a close run thing, but Ospreys snatch victory and their trip to Australia is secured. 

Not much happening here, and I didn't feel any compulsion to rapidly turn the page to see what happened next. Even Jo wasn't interested in what was happening on the track. After one heat they were level, and then we jump to the final race and they were still neck and neck. The final race was only three panels, so there was no sense of build-up or anticipation, and I think most people would have known early on what the outcome would be. Once again we have a Tiger story heading off to the mythical Australia, and I can only hope something a little more thrilling happens there.

Rating: 5/10

Best line: "Rubbish! With the promise of a free trip to Aussie our lads are going to ride like dingbats!" 

Martin's Marvellous Mini 

Meanwhile, in Australia, two other Tiger characters are facing their own trials and tribulations as Martin and Tiny start repairing their poor mini George. 

We don't see much of these repairs and are told that a week later the repairs are complete and the pals lay on a bit of a party for their hosts. Cakes are eaten, teas drunk, and the two boys are invited to take part in the rancher's race. It is a rugged cross-country affair in which last year only three vehicles out of thirty finished. 

I expect Martin and Tiny to say no, but they instantly agree to the two-hundred-mile race. The official in charge of the race doesn't think much of their chances but he agrees to sign them up and the next morning at nine o'clock they are on the starting line and ready to start. 

It's a rough start, all the other vehicles are much bigger, and they make their intentions of squashing George clear from the start. Martin decides the best course of action is to get clear of the others, and with a burst of speed, he makes sure he is well clear of the other vehicles. Things are going well with his skills and George's manoeuvrability,  but as they crest a hill they find themselves speeding around a series of large boulders. 

We are still not back to the colourised version of Martin's Marvellous Mini, but the story itself carries plenty of colour. We had stagnated the last couple of weeks, so I am relieved to see us propelled into a dynamic storyline for this issue. A couple of panels of George at his best, and the usual expressions from Martin and Tiny to go with it, were all I ever needed. Throw in some food and tea and we are back to basics for the strip. This could be the start of a great story, next week we will know better, but for now, I am content with what I see on the page. 

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "We don't fool around, either, boys...we drive kinda rough out here!" 

Issue final ratings:

Overall: 6.5/10

Best Story: Hot Shot Hamish 

Best Line: "Och, there's no need for ye to start grinning and making funny remarks! It's no' a crime for a mon to enjoy the company o' a young lady now and again..."

Best Panel:

Roy's Sports Quiz:

Tiger 26th October 1974

 It's my favourite day of the year - the first day of the football season. I have to wait until the last game of the round to see my team play, I can only cross my fingers and hope we get the football action I crave. Back on the pages of Tiger, there is plenty of football action to indulge in, with four of the eight stories being football-centric. Not all of it is Premier League level, but the entertainment level is much higher -you don't get many nil-all draws in Tiger. In the real world it's only two hours until kick-off, let's jump in quickly and see what's happening in Tiger back in 1974.

26th October 1974

Skid Solo

We are at the champions race and it's the usual situation with Skid leading and Sparrow sitting second. Things don't stay this way for long as one of Skid's tyres shreds itself and Skid is forced to pit. It's a quick change and twenty seconds later Skid is back on the track, now behind Sparrow.

As the on-track racing continues, Sandy receives a phone call from London. It's the Sports Star of the Year award, and the caller enlists Sandy's help to get the winner to the prize-giving dinner. There's just one catch. It's a secret, even to the winner, and Sandy is going to have to be canny to get the winner there without raising suspicion.

Back at the race and Skid is making a final surge to catch up with Sparrow. He almost succeeds on the final lap, and in a photo finish, they end in a dead heat. 

As the drivers congratulate one another, Sandy pulls Skid aside and tells him that Sparrow has won the Sports Star of the Year award. Skid is immediately on the same wavelength as Sandy, and when Sandy slyly asks Sparrow if he would like to go out for dinner that night Skid does his best to encourage him.

Sandy tells Sparrow he must dress up for the occasion, and Skid pushes him along, telling him he has ten minutes to get ready. The surprise is sprung soon after as they enter the awards dinner. Sparrow is surprised, but the ever-crafty Sandy tells them it might be fun, they may even know the winner. 

He is right, and after a preamble from the MC the winner is announced - Skid Solo! Sandy and Sparrow have both been in on it, and it is Skid who has been tricked into attending.

Not the racing story we expect from Skid Solo, but the perfect twist that I have come to enjoy so much in these off-season stories. The cover was misleading, yet a nice hook to draw us in, with Skid's car shredding its tire midrace. The race itself was good. It was not compelling but offered just enough for Skid Solo fans to see their hero in action. The crux of the story was in the final few panels, and this was the most enjoyable part of the story for me. Once again we got to see Skid dressed to the nines (the last time was just a couple of weeks ago when he went to Buckingham Palace) and both he and Sandy scrub up very nicely. An excellent final twist almost lifted this to the same level as a Skid Solo Grand Prix race issue, and I found it charming and enjoyable. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "You--you twisters! You knew! Both of you..." 

Nipper

The captions to the first two panels of this week's story tell us everything we need to know about Nipper. Sixteen years old, idol of Blackport, five feet four inches of fiery-tempered aggression. Ah yes, that's the Nipper I know and love.

We also learn that Nipper is on his way to breaking the club record of fifty-four goals in a season and already has nine under his belt. Make that ten, as he slots home another with his favourite shot - the horizontal bicycle kick. 

Adored by the fans, not everyone watching is enamoured by his exploits. In the press box sports reporter Brian Crawford watches on, just waiting for Nipper to crack under the pressure. 

Yelling at the crowd, Nipper misses the pass coming his way, surrendering possession and almost a goal. He is only saved by his goalie, Don Wilson, who bravely dives at the feet of the attacking player. 

As halftime is whistled, Nipper walks off the field towards the stormy-faced manager Andy Steward. It looks like he might be in for a rough talk at halftime. 

Last week I said I would like to meet more of Nipper's surrounding cast and I get that this week as we meet a couple more of his teammates, his fans, Brian Crawford, and most critically, Andy Steward. All will play their various parts in the coming years, and this is a great issue for settling them all out and giving us an idea of what they are made of. Andy Stewart is an instant favourite, and if a picture is worth a thousand words then the final panel is worth a thousand angry ones. Nothing groundbreaking here, just a lot of information to digest. We are building nicely to the next issue, and I can't wait to see the talking to Nipper is going to get. It's going to make Alex Ferguson's hairdryer treatment seem like a quiet fireside chat.

Rating: 6.5/10

Best line: "I can't help it, Skipper! Everyone is on at me about that perishing record these days...!" 

Tallon Of The Track

Everyone loves a good crash in Tallon of the Track, and the opening image of two bikes spilling into each immediately gets my pulse racing. 

It is Sven Jansson and Jim Foster of the Ospreys and it's only the sheer skill of the opposing riders that saves them from serious injury. Even so, their injuries are serious enough and Jim Foster is taken from the track in an ambulance. 

The heat is called off, and the race restarts. Sven Jansson is shaken, but courageously rides on, and manages the unthinkable; holding the two Marsden riders at bay and winning the points for the Ospreys.

He is happy with his victory and boldly tells Jo that there is still a chance to win the meeting, Jo is far from convinced and reminds them that now with three reserve riders riding, it's just not possible to keep up the pace. 

Tallon of the Track only has a page and a half, not a lot of room to spin a story. There is enough here to advance the story, although a lot of was dealing with the crash. Everything takes time and panels, and by the time we had cleared the track and prepared for the restart, we were already over to the second page. It made it hard to truly lose myself in the story. Just as I thought something was about to happen we were down and I'm forced to wait until next week. I hope in future issues this story will get more time on the page to breathe, although at this stage it doesn't seem likely. A fine story, frustratingly all too short. 

Rating: 5/10

Best line: "Another couple of seconds and his nerve will break! It's got to!" 

Roy Of The Rovers

With a minibus skidding toward them through the driving rain at Melchester Airport, Roy and his Rovers must think quickly. It is Roy who reacts fastest, throwing a large kit hamper in front of the minibus, which not only breaks its speed but also makes the bus skid away from them.

It's a breathless start, but the story slows after this action. The driver of the bus comes face to face with Tony Storme and it is his old nemesis Archie Miller, manager of Carford City. Terse words are exchanged and later while Roy talks to Jimmy Slade he hints at some history between Archie Miller and Tony Storme, going back to their playing days. Roy promises to tell more, but only if Jimmy has a good game on Saturday.

This seems to inspire Jimmy, and he plays a blinder. And while on the field Rovers go two-nil up, in the back office Ben Galloway waits for the draw of the next round of the European Cup to be made. Phone pressed to his ear, he has a shocked expression as he tells Tony Storme he won't believe who they've drawn. 

I think we all have a pretty good idea of who that might be, with plenty of foreshadowing on the first page of the comic. It's not rocket science, but it is highly enjoyable, and I'm just as curious as Jimmy Slade to learn about the back story between Tony Storme and Archie Miller. The drama of the minivan came and went all too fast, and it didn't feel like a real threat, although it was a  nice fish hook to get us here from the end of last week and introduce us to Archie. The rainy scenes were the best panels of the story, and after this, we were sadly reduced to a lot of talking heads, broken up by two panels of Jimmy Slade's on-field exploits. I don't expect to be surprised by next week's draw and the best I can hope for is some more lovely-looking art and the promise of future conflict. 

Rating: 6/10

Best line: "Well, I'll be...Archie Miller! You alright old son?"

Hot Shot Hamish 

Poor old Hamish. He saved a goal but knocked himself out in the process. Laying prone on the ground, the coaching staff attend to him while down the sideline comes running one of the villagers that Hamish helped earlier in the day. The villager carries a large bottle and although he tells them he isn't a medic, he does have the medicine that will restore Hamish to full fitness.

Mr McWhacker is doubtful, yet before he can do anything Hamish has grabbed the bottle and consumed all of its horrible-tasting contents.  Seconds later Hamish is back on his feet and running into the field. Tackling one of his own men, he dribbles towards the goal and hits his famous hotshot.

The goalkeeper gets his hand to it, something he regrets as the shot crushes his hand against the goalpost before the ball rebounds back into action. Bouncing like a pinball, it wipes out half the Spanish side and we end the strip with Hamish surveying the bodies on the field and appealing to the ref that he's done nothing wrong. The ref agrees, but Hamish must still face the angry crowd who hurl rubbish and abuse at him. 

Excellent, Excellent, excellent. I think this may be the first time we have seen the hotshot since Hamish arrived on the pages of Tiger. It was worth the wait and provided a great demonstration of the power of his shot, and what the story is all about. Hamish is an innocent in possession of great power, and although it is a fearsome force he remains humble and apologetic throughout. I enjoyed seeing his body language and apology after hitting the hotshot, although just a page earlier I silently cheered as he struck it. We will be seeing plenty more of the hotshot in the next ten years, and every time will be just as thrilling as this. The man has finally lived up to his name, and I'm more than happy to see it., 

Rating: 8.5/10

Best line: "Och, awa'! Hamish has taken oot half the Spanish side..." 

Johnny Cougar with Splash Gorton

Johnny Cougar is weird and getting weirder. Something I would normally applaud, but this week I'm not so sure...

Johnny is facing off against Robin Good, a man who has based his whole schtick on Robin Hood of long ago. Facing off against Johnny on a fallen tree across a stream, we have a direct copy of Robin Hood facing Little John, and just like in that ancient story, it is the bigger man, in this case Johnny Cougar, who wins the fight.

That's not the end of it, and although Robin Good has been dunked in the river, Johnny and Splash are still prisoners and Robin's men surround them. Armed with bows and arrows, the men offer no chance of escape for Johnny and Splash. 

Back at the outlaw's camp, Johnny and Spalsh are placed in a wooden cage, while Robin shows off the wrestling ring they have constructed to keep themselves fit. Robin invites Johnny to take him on in the ring and from here on next week's issue practically writes itself. 

I love Robin Hood. I love Johnny Cougar. I'm not sure I love the two of them together. Scratch that - I'm sure I don't like the two of them together. Sure, next week will be wrestling action. It will also be men running around in tights in the modern day. It might be fine for some people, but sadly it's not for me. One thing that is for me is the art. I said it last week and I'll say it again, the artwork is stunning throughout Johnny Cougar and every panel is brimming with intense detail. This was the strip where I paid the least attention to the storyline, but on the other hand, I paid the most attention to the art. Splendid throughout and my only wish is that it had a better story paired with it.

Rating: 6/10

Best line: "Cougar not wish to remember. Time to stop this foolishness!"  

Martin's Marvellous Mini 

Martin and Tiny had a smashing arrival at the reception for the rally drivers last week, crashing in the middle of the dining table. All eyes are looking accusingly as they climb out of the car, and it looks as though they may be thrown out for gate crashing.

Keen to prove their identity they jump in a nearby mini with the intention of showing the crowds they are who they say they are,. After a quick spin across the lawn, they find themselves driving up the entrance steps to the reception hall and through the lobby. A quick detour through the kitchen and they soon appear on the other side of the building, now speeding towards the pond. By chance, there is a pair of statues of leaping dolphins, and they use these as a ramp to jump the pond. 

Coming to a halt in front of the crowd, they receive a round of applause- the crowd is now convinced they are who they say they are. We end the comic on a high as a cheque is presented to the winner, sadly not Martin and Tiny, before the master of ceremonies reminds everyone that Mr Carltion had promised a five thousand pound prize to Martin and Tiny if they finished ahead of his Carlton Cars, which they have done. Presented with a five thousand pound cheque the boys are ecstatic with shouts that they had forgotten about that and now they are rich. 

Hmmm, they forgot but did the writers also forget? It is now several weeks since the race and this seems like a sudden call back after seeing the boys struggle for money. I'm pleased with the outcome, although the rest of the story never grabbed me. The car action was easy on the eye, yet it meant nothing in regard to the overall story. With money in hand, our two pals can now move on and hopefully once again embark on a wider journey. The London to Sydney Rally was great, but since we have finished the story has stagnated. Here's hoping for a reboot next week and a nice juicy storyline for Martin and Tiny. 

Rating: 5/10

Best line: "What on earth are those two dreadful men up to now?"

Billy's Boots

Billy is still playing in the charity match against the police team, and in the first panels of this week's strip, we see him win a penalty and convert the goal. 

The next morning at Billy's school the headmaster receives a call from local scout Harry Pope. Although the headmaster can't see Billy's name on any of the school's teams, Harry asks if he could see him play in his next school match.

Calling the sports master to his office, the headmaster tells him to play Billy in the next game and although the sports master tells him that Billy has been out of form recently he agrees to do so. 

The day arrives, and when the referee inspects the boys' boots before the game he tells Billy he needs to fix some of the nails in his old boots. There is barely enough time before kickoff, and Billy is handed a pair of normal boots and sent onto the field. 

With the scout watching on, Billy blazes his first shot well wide of the goal. He is feeling powerless without his special boots, and his confidence takes another blow when one of his teammates tells him there is a scout watching. 

Typical of Billy Dane and Billy's Boots in general. He has his moment in the sun and invariably something happens to his boots and he must play without them. It's the premise of this whole strip and something we will see time and time again. I'm happy with that, this is what I want to read and part of the fun is seeing how the writers can mix it up and make it interesting each variation. I don't feel any real drama or urgency to read the next issue, it will be what it will be. Enjoyable, but hardly taxing. 

Rating: 6/10

Best line: "Dane? He doesn't seem to be in our school team...I've got a team-list here in my hand..." 

Issue final ratings:

Overall: 6.5/10

Best Story: Hot Shot Hamish 

Best Line: "Please, Senor, in my village I am el medico...not a proper doctor, you understand...but I have the healing skills!"

Best Panel:

Roy's Sports Quiz:

Tiger 19th October 1974

Last week we had three new stories appear in Tiger, and every other story began a new storyline. It was a lot to take in and an upheaval, but this week things settle down and we get a better feel for how things stand now that the dust has settled. All the stories are still in the early stages, but the characters are more familiar and we can already see where we are heading in several stories. It is an exciting time to be reading, anything could happen and a couple of stories are already delivering the unexpected. Here's what I found in this issue from the 19th of October 1974:

19th October 1974

Roy Of The Rovers

Once again, it is Roy and his Rovers that are the lead story of the comic. With the match against Dutch team Zeeden still in the balance, goalkeeper Tubby Morton is carried off, only to be replaced by the dynamic Charlie 'the Cat' Carter. 

Charlie lives up to his name, and for the next page he pulls off a series of outstanding saves that keeps Melchester Rovers in the game. Finally, manager Tony Storme decides it's time to go on attack and signalling to the team he pushes eight attackers forward. 

It is a decisive move and pays dividends as Roy scores the winning goal, a spectacular effort that sees him pushed over by an opponent, only to do a roll and pop back up to strike the ball home. 

With the game won, the only problem facing Rovers is which keeper will be number one. It turns out to be a non-issue, as Tubby tells Charlie that the position is all his - Tubby is off to manage the "A' team. 

It looks like there will be very little drama in the issue, but in the final panels the Rovers arrive back in England during a downpour. As the players run through the rain towards their coach, there is a screech of brakes and a skidding mini-bus heads directly at them. 

And here I was thinking we were going to get a happy ending - I should have known better. It certainly is a great hook to bring me back next week, although you know I don't need too much convincing on that front. I enjoyed the wrapping up of the two goalkeepers' storylines, we have gone from having both goalkeepers potentially out of action, to both fully fit and putting on fine displays. I'm pleased that we've gone with Charlie Carter, Tubby Carter was just a little too old school for a younger reader like myself. With the i's dotted and t's crossed, I'm already to immerse myself in the next storyline, and the last panel of this week already has me salivating. 

Rating: 7/10

Best line: "That's shaken 'em...I bet they didn't bank on us having two world-class goalkeepers!"

Billy's Boots

Billy Dane was calling for a pass from the senior players of the charity team he was playing for when we last saw him last week. This week the cliffhanger is resolved...he receives the pass he was calling for. From here it's his ancient boots that take over, as Billy dibbles towards the corner, drawing the defence with him, before back-heeling the ball infield for George Ward to score a simple goal. 

He is briefly a hero, but a few minutes later is caught daydreaming of scoring goals himself. From a throw-in, Billy runs down the line, again drawing defenders and allowing his team to gather momentum. Receiving a lob pass from his teammate, Billy strikes the ball first time to score a cracking goal himself. 

Surrounded by teammates, some of the other players comment on how good he is, and we end with one player promising to tell Harry Pope, the Groundwood Town scout, how good this kid is. 

I enjoyed this much more than last week, and it is beginning to shape up like the Billy's Boots stories I grew up reading. I could practically write the next issue myself about what will happen with the scout, but I should relax and enjoy what we have on the page here. Not the same intense football action as Roy Of The Rovers, but still fun to see Billy in action. The moves he does on the field are like any schoolboy, and there is a hint of authenticity about the way he plays the game. Once we get this charity game out of the way we should get back to seeing Billy in his natural environment and more of this schoolboy action. I'm looking forward to seeing Billy's world expand, and become the familiar landscape I know so well.

Rating: 7.5/10

Best line: "He's got a bit of nerve, yelling at George Ward like that!"

Martin's Marvellous Mini

We're still in black and white I'm afraid, but already it looks clearer and better on the page than last week. They may have some cash, but Tiny and Martin are still struggling far from home and repairs on George imminent. 

Luckily a strapping Aussie offers them his shed for a few dollars a week where they can repair George while pointing them towards a cheap hotel just down the road.

Things are looking up, and soon they have George stripped back and a list of parts they need. In the house, their Aussie host sees a news bulletin telling of a Government reception about to be held for the London-Sydney rally. Martin and Tiny appear on screen as the news reader informs us that they haven't been seen since the rally, but it is hoped they will be at the reception. 

Chances seem slim, given that George is in pieces, but the Australian offers to tow them with his tractor. Donning their suits, which have been in the boot since they left London, Tiny and Martin don't feel particularly smart, but the Aussie reassures them that it will be fine, in Australia they don't pay too much attention to that. 

They make good time being towed behind the tractor, and despite a couple of security guards trying to bar their entrance, the tractor ploughs straight in. It is here that things go awry with the tow rope snapping and we end with Tiny and Martin crashing into the dining table and assembled guests.  

Tiger loves a good Australian stereotype, and here the Aussie host is played to the hilt. With a healthy disregard for authority and a no-worries attitude, their unnamed host is the hero of the story for me. He gets some great lines, and it would be easy for me to use five or six of his lines for my line of the week. Elsewhere, the artwork was looking as sharp as ever, and I simply cannot wait to see the strip return to colour. Sadly, patience is a virtue I do not have.  We had some good old-fashioned homeliness early in the story, a dramatic ride, and ended with a semi-humourous, semi-dramatic, crash. I couldn't ask for anything more, and after a weak issue last week we are back to the best of Martin's Marvellous Mini.

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Hey, you tramps, get that tractor out of here...this is an official reception!"

Hot-shot Hamish 

Hamish and Princes Park are in Spain, and this week we learn the name of the team they are playing against - San Martine. San Martine is big, strong, and fast. Before we know it, they have shoved Hamish over and slammed home their first goal. 

Things don't get any better, and soon enough San Martine is on the attack again. Chipping the keeper, it looks like Princes Park is about to go two-nil down, only for a desperately diving Hamish to save the day with a goal-line clearance. He may have saved the goal, but he can't save himself and is knocked unconscious as he hits the goalpost.

Not a lot to talk about in regards to story here, but this was a highly enjoyable strip throughout. The humour wasn't overplayed, and we learnt a little more about the team and the characters, Hamish is extremely likeable, and one can see why the foreign fans are drawn to him. He is aware of himself and his teammates and conscious of the wider audience watching. We see him doing his best, and even if things don't work out, one still feels for him. The art doesn't overplay the action (although in future years it will become overly cartoony) and I am beginning to wonder if this is the best that Hot-shot Hamish ever will be. Only a page and a half, but already I can see why I loved it so much. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Ye great big fat twit! Buck yere ideas up! Ye're too slow to catch a cold!" 

Nipper

After last week's dynamic display, the papers are filled with rumours of Nipper's move to Fenchurch. Nipper himself remains in ignorance of this and rushes off to training, where he faces some angry teammates. 

Ostracised by his teammates, Nipper stands apart on the field, the team refusing to pass the ball. He can't understand why and it's not until a crowd of fans invade the pitch with pleas for Nipper to stay does he see the full picture. 

Nipper doesn't quite connect the dots though, and instead blames his manager Andy Stewart. Thinking that Andy wants to get rid of him, Nipper storms into his office for an angry confrontation. Andy defuses the situation, explaining that rumours and newspaper gossip are all part of the game. Pacified, Nipper remains a Blackport player and is carried back to training by his fans. 

A slight story, but a fine introduction to the characters and the world Nipper inhabits. Next week we should see a longer-running storyline emerge, and we will hopefully see a longer story arc emerge. I like what we have seen of Nipper so far, and I find his quick temper highly relatable. We still need a strong cast of supporting characters around him, again something that will come with time. We have already met a couple and their presence will become stronger as time goes on. From memory, a key part of Nipper's life is his relationship with his best friend, something we have yet to see here. So for now, it's all in the future, but this is a solid start and a likeable couple of pages. 

Rating: 6.5/10

Best line: "This must be manager Andy Stewart's decision! If he thinks he can kick me out without a fight - he's mistaken! I'll see him right now!"

Johnny Cougar and Splash Gorton

While exploring the New Forest, Johnny and Splash have come under attack. With arrows flying their way they take shelter in the foliage and wait to see who their attacker is. 

A voice calls at them from the forest, telling them that every move can be seen and that if they come into the open they will be unharmed. Cougar agrees, for surely if the attacker meant them harm he could have done so by now. 

They emerge from hiding and find themselves facing Robin Good, a man dressed like Robin Hood - complete with bow and arrow, who leads a band of outlaws who shelter in the forest.

There is one crucial difference though, Robin Good robs not only the rich but also the poor. He tells Johnny he has a task for him and soon the trio are travelling deeper into the forest. 

Coming to a stream, Robin Good's scheme is outlined. Robin and Johnny climb onto a log that straddles the stream and armed with staffs they prepare to battle. Win or lose, Robin Good tells Johnny he will soon be a leading member of the gang of outlaws. 

Mid-story Johnny said "What nonsense is this?" and I have to agree with him. Nonsense indeed. The first thing that springs to my mind is why is such a man living an outlaw's life in the twentieth century, resplendent in Lincoln Green, and why aren't the authorities doing something about it? Furthermore, how did he immediately know Johnny's name? Right from the first meeting he referred to Johnny as Johnny Cougar, and the only explanation I have is that perhaps this man isn't quite what he seems. There are plenty of positives in the story - the art is fantastic for one. Despite my dislike of this Robin Good character, he looks amazing on the page, and every image of him throughout the story captures my imagination. Of course, comics are a visual medium, and visually the story is stunning. On art alone, I would give it 10/10, but there is more to the story as such, and overall the art doesn't quite compensate for the tale that is being spun. Close to being amazing, but sadly lumbered with a story that doesn't ring true for me.

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "It is no nonsense, Johnny Cougar...I am forming an outlaw band who will become as famous as the men in Lincoln Green who used to live in Sherwood Forest!"    

Tallon Of The Track

With two of her team members in an unnecessary accident, Jo and the Osprey's trip to Australia is in jeopardy. The good news is that despite the carnage we see in the first scene, both Dave and Sam are OK. Sure, Dave is in hospital for a week, and Sam has a broken collar bone, but at least they are alive.

They are alive, but they won't be competing in the Osprey's final meet of the season against Marsden Aces. Jo is relying on the other riders to get maximum points in the opening heat to build some confidence in the team, but as they go into the first bend of the first lap Jansson loses control and the two Ospreys riders tangle up. 

The crash we saw in the final panel of last week's issue dominates the story this week, and on the first page of the story, we see the state of the riders as they are pulled from the wreckage. Jo is deeply concerned for her riders but still has time to spell out what this could mean for the trip to Australia. The second part of the strip is more focused on the final meeting, and even though the race itself is merely two panels it certainly propels us into next week. Once again, amazing artwork and my eyes love looking at these pages. Not Jo herself, but the wreckage of the bikes, and the racing on track. All of it is fabulous, and unlike Johnny Cougar, it has a strong story to back it up. After several months of weak stories, we are back to exactly the type of Tallon of the Track story I want to see. 

Rating: 9/10

Best line: "He's trapped down there! Under the shattered timber!" 

Skid Solo

At the end of each season, the car mechanics hold their own race. In the first panel, we have Skid Solo watching on while Sandy speeds by in a neat reversal of what we have seen many times. 

Sadly Skid and Sparrow can't stay to see the race the next day, but Sandy tells them it's fine and he's confident about winning, especially since he prepared his own car. In fact, he's so confident that he tells them to meet him at Jack's restaurant the following day and he'll bring the trophy with him. 

The race goes well for Sandy, and he is in the lead from the start. The laps wheel by and he still retains his lead, until suddenly he is overtaken by a car that is considerably faster than his. 

Sandy can't believe it and despite his best efforts, he can't keep up with the faster car. He finishes second and quickly approaches the other driver to offer congratulations. He is surprised to find that under the crash helmet, the other driver is a woman,. and all he can do is exclaim "A girl!" 

That evening at Jack's restaurant Skid and Sparrow arrive and is shown to a table where sits the woman we have just seen win the race. Sparrow is taken aback and wonders if Sandy has gotten himself a girlfriend. It is then that Sandy appears with the trophy, as promised. However, he has to confess that the trophy isn't his, and belongs to their (oddly) unnamed dining companion. 

So, a girl was good enough to win the race, but not good enough to be given a name. We were so close too, the rest of the story was fantastic. It was great to see Sandy himself on the track, and I enjoyed his discomfort immensely when he saw who had beaten him. I also got a kick out of the restaurant scene, and Sandy sheepishly admitting that the trophy wasn't his. Sure, not giving the girl a name was a mistake, but the rest of the story was strong and I'm sure this was just a small oversight. Not your usual Skid Solo story, but one worth reading. Lovely art, and cracking dialogue all make this worthwhile and gives the comic the finish it deserves. 

Rating: 8/10

Best line: "Well...she's the winner and it's her cup! Let's start eating!" 

Issue final ratings:

Overall: 8/10

Best Story: Tallon Of The Track 

Best Line: "Stone me! Don't tell me Sandy's got himself a girlfriend!"

Best Panel:

Roy's Sports Quiz