'One of best goals ever' - Tributes paid as Sheffield United fan with dementia who fulfilled ambition of scoring at Bramall Lane aged 90 passes away

Tributes have been paid to Frank Coulson, the lifelong Sheffield United fan who fulfilled a lifetime ambition to score at Bramall Lane two years ago at the age of 90, after he passed away this week.
By Danny Hall
Published 8th Oct 2020, 11:55 BST
Frank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/SportimageFrank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Frank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

Frank's home, at the Norwood Grange dementia care home in Longley, was decorated with Blades scarves he collected over the years and his moment in the limelight came about because of the care home's 'make a wish' scheme, where residents hang their wish on a tree and, each month, staff attempt to make them come true.

Frank was accompanied onto the Bramall Lane turf by Tony Currie at half-time of United's game against Wigan during their promotion season, and scored in front of the Kop end to a large cheer.

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Gary Sinclair, United's long-standing stadium announcer, led the tributes to Frank.

"In all my 26 years of stadium announcing, few moments have touched me as much as watching 92 years old Frank Coulson score in front of the kop in the presence of his hero TC.

"It was simply a priceless experience.

"I am sure all fans will join me sending our condolences to Frank’s family and friends. He will be telling all in Blades heaven about when his dream came true .

"God bless you Frank."

Frank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/SportimageFrank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Frank Coulson scores in front of the Kop, fulfilling a lifetime ambition aged 90: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

Frank first watched games at Bramall Lane from the Kop over 80 years ago and continued to attend home games until dementia prevented him from doing so.

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"I was there that day when he scored that goal," said Blades fan Carla Dudhill, "and we all cheered and clapped when it went in.

"Fly safe, Blades man from the Lane."

Jamie Smith added: "UTB Frank. One of best goals ever scored in front of the Kop."

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of Blades coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor

Related topics:Bramall LaneBladesChris Holt

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