Teesside premiere for 'giant-killer' film

Teesside premiere for 'giant-killer' film

North Korea eventually lost to Portugal in 1966

A documentary about North Korea's legendary victory against Italy in the 1966 World Cup has finally come home to Middlesbrough.

The Game of Their Lives - follows the true story of the North Korean's fourth round match in Middlesbrough - described as the greatest shock in the competition's history.

It depicts the story of the unknown side's 1-0 victory against Italy at the then home of Middlesbrough Football Club, Ayresome Park.

The film which had it's first Teesside showing on Thursday night - follows the squad on their return journey to Middlesbrough more than 30 years later.

Director Dan Gordon and Associate Producer Nick Bonner, who were at the event, say it was "heart-warming" to see witness the warm welcome the veterans received.

Mr Gordon said: "The film has already been shown in the United States and in China.

Famous goal

"Obviously, Middlesbrough has a rather special place in the story as this is where the match took place.

"We were delighted to be able to bring the film to Teesside and give it its own premiere.

"A big part of the film is how the people of Teesside took these people to their hearts."

In October 2002 members of the giant-killing team returned to the Teesside.

The seven surviving members of the team visited the site where Pak Do Ik scored the famous goal, which is now part of a housing estate following the demolition of the Ayresome Park ground.

Many supporters in 1966 followed the Koreans to their quarter final clash at Everton.

The Koreans lost that match 5-3 to Portugal after leading 3-0.