A new book, A Fine Line, written by Matthew Rhodes, explores Chesterfield’s remarkable FA Cup run during the 1996/97 season, when the Spireites came agonisingly close to reaching the final.
The book is a nostalgic celebration of one of the most extraordinary underdog stories in FA Cup history, packed with memories from those who were there.
Born and raised in Chesterfield, Matthew Rhodes is a freelance sports journalist and broadcaster. He provides live audio commentary on football matches and written match reports for Flashscore. From 2021 to 2025, he served as North Derbyshire Radio’s senior sports editor. A Fine Line is his first full-length book.
The book includes first-hand accounts from Chesterfield players who were part of the memorable cup run, including club legends Jamie Hewitt and Sean Dyche. Hewitt, whose dramatic late equaliser in the semi-final remains one of the most iconic moments in the club’s history, also wrote the foreword, bringing a personal and emotional perspective to the story.
The SMH Group Stadium will host a book signing event with Matthew Rhodes on Monday, August 3, in the Club Shop. Matthew will be in attendance from 10am until midday to meet supporters and sign copies of A Fine Line.
Copies of A Fine Line will be available to purchase on the day directly from Matthew, who will have a limited number of copies. A small number will also be available from the Club Shop. Supporters who already own a copy are very welcome to bring theirs along to be signed. The book’s RRP is £19.99, and its dimensions are 22.2 x 14.4 x 2.3 cm.
