Meaning:
The quote refers to an international football match between England and Germany, where England struggled to defeat the full German team. It also mentions that the speaker had taken the program from that match. The quote is attributed to Dixie Dean, a renowned English footballer who played as a center-forward for Everton and the England national team in the 1920s and 1930s.
In the context of the quote, "it had taken England all their time to beat the full German team" suggests that the match was highly competitive and challenging for the English team. This could imply that Germany had put up a strong performance, making it difficult for England to secure a victory. The mention of "the full German team" indicates that Germany fielded their strongest lineup, adding to the significance of England's achievement in defeating them.
Additionally, the quote highlights the speaker's personal connection to the match, as they mention taking the program from that game. This implies that the match held special significance for the speaker, perhaps due to the competitive nature of the contest or the quality of the opposition.
The reference to Dixie Dean as the speaker adds weight to the quote, as he is a well-respected figure in English football history. Dean is widely regarded as one of the greatest goal scorers of all time and is particularly celebrated for his prolific scoring record during his time at Everton. His status as a prominent athlete and his involvement in international football lends credibility to the quote and suggests that it holds significance within the context of football history.
The quote may also serve as a reminder of the challenges and triumphs that occur in international football competitions. It underscores the competitive nature of the sport and the significance of victories against formidable opponents. Furthermore, it may evoke a sense of nostalgia for fans of the game, prompting them to reflect on memorable matches and the accomplishments of their favorite teams and players.
In summary, the quote captures the intensity of a hard-fought international football match between England and Germany, as well as the personal significance it held for the speaker, Dixie Dean. It serves as a testament to the competitive nature of football and the sense of pride and nostalgia associated with memorable victories in the sport.