When was the phrase smash-and-grab victory' first used in football? | The Knowledge
Briefly

Liverpool's narrow 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain is highlighted as a classic example of a 'smash-and-grab' win, where they clinched the game despite being heavily outplayed. The term has been in use for nearly a century in football, originally describing a literal burglary. This anecdotal examination traces its first mention back to 1904 and highlights its evolution into a metaphor for football strategies, especially during the 1930s with teams like Arsenal countering dominant opposition through quick, decisive plays.
Liverpool's recent 1-0 victory against PSG epitomized the 'smash-and-grab' style, with their keeper delivering a stellar performance while the team faced heavy pressure throughout the match.
The phrase 'smash and grab' in football has historical roots, originating from a 1904 theft incident and evolving over the decades to describe specific match situations.
The term gained traction among football writers in the 1930s, particularly used to describe Arsenal under Herbert Chapman, showcasing a style that effectively countered dominant opposition.
Liverpool's memorable win was defined by a single moment of brilliance late in the game, making it a true exemplification of the smash-and-grab victory type.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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