This was somewhat of a dream project for me, football aside, to get to play with big numbers as a confessed type nerd was very exciting.

The end result was based on the font used in the existing SPL brand. The SPL logotype has been stretched beyond recognition but behind this distortion lies a strong typeface that is rooted in tradition. The SPL trophy is based on the thistle and this became a starting point. Getting out my trusty scissors I cut into the numbers adding a scything movement to convey raw energy and also reference thistle thorns. The serifs were extended and exaggerated creating a spiky effect.

Due to production restrictions the numbers had to be very slim and elongated, trying to hold on to some weight became a tricky juggling act, one which I think we’ve pulled off.