Fresh from the highs and lows of Scotland finally reaching the Men’s World Cup for the first time in decades, James Lowman’s The Toe Poke arrives at the Fringe with a premise that will immediately intrigue football supporters. Directed by Duncan Thomas, with assistant director Ross Wengel, the play imagines a chance meeting in a Paris cafe during the 1998 World Cup between legendary broadcaster Archie Macpherson, outspoken football personality Jimmy Hill and former Scotland international David Narey.What begins as a nostalgic conversation soon centres on one of Scottish football’s most debated moments. Narey’s famous goal against Brazil at the 1982 World Cup was immortalised by Hill’s description of it as a “toe poke”, a phrase that many Scottish fans felt diminished both the quality of the strike and the significance of the achievement. For Narey, the comment has lingered for years. For Hill, it remains difficult to understand why so much offence was taken.
This disagreement forms the dramatic heart of the play. As old frustrations bubble to the surface, the discussion widens into a broader examination of football, national identity and perceptions of Scotland within the wider British game. Macpherson finds himself acting as mediator between the two men, attempting to guide them towards some shared understanding, while cafe owner Marie Reine watches the unfolding debate with quiet curiosity.
Even for those without an encyclopaedic knowledge of football history, The Toe Poke remains an engaging and accessible piece of theatre. Lowman’s script raises interesting questions and explores a fascinating episode from Scotland’s sporting past. However, the dialogue does not always feel entirely natural. There are moments when conversations become overly explanatory, with passages that resemble a history lesson more than an exchange between long-time acquaintances. While the information is relevant, it can occasionally interrupt the dramatic flow.
Fortunately, the production is supported by a strong cast. Graeme Dallas is particularly impressive as Jimmy Hill, capturing both the distinctive voice and mannerisms of the football pundit with remarkable accuracy. Alasdair Ferguson brings warmth and authority to Archie Macpherson, while James O’Neill gives David Narey a quiet dignity that makes his frustrations understandable. Netaniah Faison Osborne also provides an effective presence as Marie Reine, helping to ground the action whenever debates threaten to become overly earnest.
Whether you’re still recovering from a World Cup heartbreak, fascinated by football history or simply looking for a thoughtful Fringe drama, The Toe Poke offers enough charm and insight to make it worth a watch. It may not always find the back of the net, but it delivers a solid and enjoyable performance.
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