At the age of 79, FA Cup legend Ronnie Radford passed away. He is remembered for the memorable goal he scored for Hereford United against Newcastle in 1972.
In the history of the FA Cup, Radford—who also played for Leeds United, Cheltenham Town, and Newport County—will be remembered for his stunning long-range goal against the Magpies, which enabled his team to defeat them 2-1 and secure a giant-killing.
His previous team, Hereford, has acknowledged his passing and posted a statement on their official website to confirm the tragedy.
‘We are devastated to hear of Ronnie’s passing, and wish to extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this very sad time,’ it read.
‘Ronnie is not just a part of Hereford United folklore, he is a part of football history and has kept Hereford on the football map since 1972.
‘His mild manner, and friendly and modest approach to life epitomised the man he was and he was always delighted to visit Edgar Street, to meet up with past teammates and watch the present day team in action.
‘We will always keep Ronnie close to our hearts at Edgar Street, not just at FA Cup moments, but forever and celebrate him and his huge role in propelling Hereford United to the forefront of the nations attention with that goal and being part of that team.
‘We will carry your spirit onwards. Rest in peace Ronnie.’
Radford began his playing career in 1961 with Sheffield Wednesday and eventually moved on to play for Leeds, Cheltenham, Rugby Town, Newport, and Hereford before making his mark on history.
Hereford’s Edgar Street stadium hosted a third-round rematch against Newcastle. Radford caught a flick-on and fired a first-time thunderbolt into the roof of the net, flying past goalkeeper Willie McFaul.
Since then, the phrase “goal” has come to be associated with the legendary football pundit John Motson.
“Oh, what a goal! What a goal!’ He cried. ‘Radford the scorer… and the crowd are invading the pitch.’
Ronnie Radford’s Date of Birth
Ronnie Radford was born in the year 1943 on the day of July 12 in South Elmsall, West Riding of Yorkshire in England.
About Ronnie Radford’s Early Career
Radford began his football career at Sheffield Wednesday and later moved on to Leeds United after being born in South Elmsall, West Riding of Yorkshire. However, he never played for either club’s varsity. Although he only played football on a part-time basis and worked as a joiner during the week, he joined Cheltenham Town and was a daily that season.
Before moving back to Whaddon Road in 1966, he played one season at Rugby Town. After being acquired by Newport County in 1969 for £1,500, he was named Player of the Year in his debut campaign by the fans. While playing at Newport, Radford beat Bradford Park Avenue with a shot that sailed into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Times latterly, Radford stated in an interview that he allowed the target was just as applaudable as his most well-known bid.
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Radford ultimately moved to a club closer to home thanks to the physical and fiscal burden of traveling to and from Newport. Hereford United was the association. When the Hereford club began an extraordinary mug run from the Fourth Qualifying Round to the Fourth Round Proper, Radford was a diurnal in the middle for the platoon.
Hereford faced Newcastle United in the third round. James’ Park, where the part-time platoon came down with a 2- 2 tie despite taking an early lead.
Was Ronnie Radford a married man?
Ronnie Radford was well settled with his dear wife Annie Radford and their children, Garry and David.