In 1964, Brann were among the favorites to win their third consecutive league championship, but due to many injured players the team only won one of the first nine league games. In the second half of the season, Brann was positioned in the relegation zone and the team's star, Roald Jensen had departed to the Scottish team Hearts. Before the decisive match of the season, Brann was one point behind Viking on the last spot which was clear of relegation, and Brann were facing the already relegated Raufoss at home. Even though Brann had the greatest chances to score a goal, Raufoss won the match 1–0, and Brann surprisingly was relegated from the top league along with Raufoss.