Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
Richard Forrester

Bristol City announce sad passing of former goalkeeper Con Sullivan aged 93

Bristol City have confirmed the sad news that former goalkeeper Con Sullivan has died aged 93.

Sullivan, born in Bristol, made 73 appearances for the Robins during a five-year spell at Ashton Gate before joining Arsenal in February 1954.

He would go on to make a further 28 appearances for the Gunners before a shoulder injury ended his career in 1958 where he would then return to his home in Knowle West.

A statement posted on the Bristol City site read: "Bristol City is saddened to hear of the passing of Con Sullivan and would like to pay tribute to the former goalkeeper.

"The thoughts of everyone associated with the club go out to Con’s family and friends at this sad time."

Sullivan, who was City's oldest living player, made an appearance at Ashton Gate in November to celebrate his 93rd birthday when City hosted Blackburn Rovers and was gifted a signed shirt and framed photo of his iconic save.

Sullivan was first spotted in the Bristol Downs League joining City in May 1949 at the age of 20. After moving to Arsenal, a friendly was arranged as part of the deal with attracted crowds of 28,991 to see him in action.

It was during his time at Arsenal when he was involved in one of the most famous and bizarre football own-goals. His side were 4-0 ahead against Blackpool when he and defender Dennis Evans believed they had heard the full-time whistle.

Turning his back to retrieve his cap from the net, Evans kicked the ball into his own goal only to realise the whistle had come from somebody in the crowd.

A tribute from the Bristol City Former Players Association read: "It’s with real sadness that the FPA can report the loss of one of the Bristol City family today.

"Con Sullivan passed away this morning aged 93. Con played for the club 73 times between 1950 -53. It was a privilege to be in his company and we send our love to his family. RIP Con."

SIGN UP: For our daily Robins newsletter, bringing you the latest from Ashton Gate

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.