Set 61221 - Italia 90 Pitch

This is the third of the Italia '90 sets, and must rank as the most expensive tie-in produced (not counting full sets of course). Although special goal and ball sets were produced for subsequent tournaments, this is the only special pitch outside of the box sets. (The Premiership and Man Utd sets both have special pitches).

The item is illustrated in the earlier of the two small brochures issued with teams and accessories in the 1990s. This illustration shows the pitch as a standard nylon affair (and also incorrectly quotes the number 61211). However, there was also a fine quality felt pitch. At first sight, it resembles a 1970's pitch, but it is really a different surface again. The set was produced 1989-90 only. It was available in the late 1980s "red logo" boxes, and may have been available in the 1990s style of box. The size of the box is also surprising - matching the box used for the grandstand in size and is big enough for more than one pitches.