FeatureAnfield Road end goals: Fairclough musters magic to settle Merseyside derby
It was a goal worthy of winning any match.
Local boy David Fairclough continued his dream start to life in Liverpool's senior ranks by settling a Merseyside derby with an effort that would go down in history.
Aged 19, he was introduced as a substitute with 25 minutes remaining on Grand National day in April 1976 as the Reds and Everton appeared to be heading for a goalless draw.
That was until Fairclough intervened with two minutes remaining in the contest, stealing the ball on halfway following a Blues throw to set off on a mazy run, leading him past four defenders and into the right side of the penalty area.
Video: 30 of the best Anfield Road end goals
His low, driven shot found the back of the net in front of the Anfield Road end and sparked wild celebrations from those of a red persuasion as he turned to sprint away with arms aloft.
It was a fourth goal in three games for Fairclough, though this particular effort really announced him as one to watch in front of a crowd of almost 55,000.
"I would have entered him for the Grand National, if it had been possible – and he would have won that as well!" said delighted Liverpool boss Bob Paisley.
Fairclough, who had grown up in the shadows of Anfield, was living his boyhood dream as his Reds career began with a bang.
He told reporters post-match: "When I used to stand on the Kop I was always hoping that one day I would be out there playing. Today a dream came true for me. I just cannot believe it."
Return to Liverpoolfc.com over the coming weeks as we look back on other famous goals in front of the Anfield Road end, as the latest expansion of the stand nears completion.
This article has been automatically translated and, while all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, some errors in translation are possible. Please refer to the original English-language version of the article for the official version.