NON-LEAGUE It has been announced that Ronnie Radford, a Hereford United and FA Cup icon, passed away at the age of 79.
In Hereford’s shocking 2-1 giant-killing of Newcastle United in 1972, Radford scored one of the most famous FA Cup goals in history.
The former midfielder attempted a hopeful boot swing at a muddy Edgar Street from a distance of 30 yards.
A pitch invasion resulted from Radford’s miraculous equaliser, which erased England attacker Malcolm Macdonald’s first goal.
Ricky George, a Hereford teammate, later scored the winning goal, eliminating Newcastle from the FA Cup.
As soon as Radford blasted the ball from 30 yards out, he knew it was going in, as he noted in the Sun’s Goals pull out from January 26, 2009.
“I was running away with my hands above my head long before the ball had even hit the back of the net.
“Like a perfect golf drive, or a six off the middle of the bat in cricket, the ball sat up for me and I connected with it perfectly.
“It was goal of the month and then goal of the season on Match of the Day in 1972.
“I’ve talked about that moment a lot over the last 37 years, but I still get just as excited remembering it today as I did when I raised my arms in celebration.
“Supporters invaded the field, but no signs of violence were there. The Hereford faithful simply burst into enthusiasm and gladness on their own.
In order for the game to continue, everyone went back to the terraces.
The FA Cup, according to Radford, “still has that power,” praising its capacity to “bring a community together.”
Hereford, which was devastated, issued a statement honouring the life of “kind and modest” Radford.
It reads: “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.
“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.”
