Arsenal, founded as Dial Square, plays its first match on the Isle of Dogs (1886)

In December 1886, workers from the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich formed a football club initially known as Dial Square. The team played its first match on 11 December 1886 on the Isle of Dogs, defeating Eastern Wanderers 6–0. This event marks the origin of the club that later became Arsenal F.C.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. The Royal Arsenal in Woolwich was an establishment for manufacturing armaments and ammunition. In 1886, workers at this site formed a football club. The team was initially named Dial Square, reflecting the workshops in the heart of the complex. This group of munitions workers established the foundation for what would eventually become Arsenal Football Club.

First Match. Dial Square played its first match on 11 December 1886. The game took place on the Isle of Dogs. The team defeated Eastern Wanderers with a score of 6–0. This victory marked the beginning of the club's competitive history, shortly after its formation by workers at the Royal Arsenal.

Naming. The club was initially known as Dial Square, named after a workshop at the heart of the Royal Arsenal complex. It was renamed Royal Arsenal two weeks later, in January 1887. The club was also known as the 'Woolwich Reds' during this early period.

People involved

Sources

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