Ronnie Radford, the scorer of one of the FA Cup's most iconic goals, has passed away aged 79.
Radford rose to fame after scoring a brilliant 30-yard effort in Hereford United's famous 2-1 win over Newcastle United in the FA Cup in the 1971/72 season. It is widely considered one of the biggest giant-killings in the competition's history.
The goal came in an FA Cup third round replay, after Southern League part-timers Hereford had held Newcastle to a 2-2 draw at St James' Park. Malcolm Macdonald headed Newcastle in front before Radford responded with a long-range effort which took it to extra-time and allowed Ricky George to seal the win for the non-league side.
Hereford United said in a statement: "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.
"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 recounted his memories of his famous goal to Mirror Football earlier this year.
“It was a magical time,” said Radford. “Even now, when people talk to me about my goal, I still get emotional about it.
“My wife missed it going in because she had turned round to speak to one our kids, who were sat directly behind her. She would have found out who scored soon enough – it's on TV every year when the Cup comes round, and it never grows old.
“It felt good the moment it left my boot – like the sweet spot on a cricket bat or a golfer's tee shot. On another day, it might have landed in the car park or hit one of the fans up in the trees, but it flew in.”
“It makes me sad when people talk about the Cup losing its magic. For us guys in the lower leagues, it's still our chance to let the big boys know we're around and to make a lot of people happy when they experience something once in a lifetime.”
