On the 5th January 1980, Brighton were playing at Mansfield in the 3rd round of the FA Cup. Clarke played and scored Brighton’s second goal in a 2-0 win. His goal came after 79 minutes, side-footing the ball home at the far post after being left unmarked. After the game Clarke said: "I felt really sick when I put in that goal, although naturally I was delighted for Brighton. I'll always have a soft spot for Field Mill. I was very happy here, and it is such a happy family club. I would have no hesitation in returning if it was ever possible."
Oldamber55 wrote:In my younger stags days ... the Ray Clarke/ Terry Eccles.. strike partnership was possibly the best we have ever had..Clarke was the clever striker whilst Eccles was the brave hard nut of the partnership... great memories in front of great crowds at the old field Mill ... for me the only sticker who would come close would be Chris Greenacre..
The scorer of the very first goal I saw live was Ray Clarke. I was too young to appreciate him or the 1977 team so will go for Steve Whitehall as the best finisher with the other SW second. 1997-98 was an uninspiring season that few look back on but imagine this season's team with a striking duo of Whitehall, I Christie or Peacock. We would either be already promoted or ready for the play-offs.Sneag wrote:Ray Clarke was a class apart from any Stags striker I've ever seen. Better than a 1 in 2 strike rate for us & even better during his 3 years in the Dutch top flight.
If he got half a chance it got buried. I'm sure he must have done it, but I can't ever remembering him fluffing a chance.
kevin kents tasce wrote:Ray Clarke was before my time and other than reading his name on here occasionally I didn’t know much about him.
I have just found this article, which is brilliant. What a player he must have been to draw the praise of Johan Cruyff!
I wonder what the reaction would be if we signed someone with only 15 games and 2 goals to their name for an hefty fee during the summer?
I wonder what the reaction would be if our best player put in a transfer request to try and better their career?
http://www.football-oranje.com/hall-of-fame-ray-clarke/
Oldamber55 wrote:Keith Cassells Mmmm. Another club legend ..but not in the class as Ray Clarke ...here’s a few names to mince on Phil Stant
Kevin Randall...Ian bowling,Matt green, Steve Wilkinson.... ????
victor A block wrote:Best striker I have ever seen play for us.. As his career after demonstrated. One or two others in that Dave Smith team that would be hard to keep out of a best ever Stags 11 as well.
Return to Stagsnet Main Discussion Forum
Users browsing this forum: bobbystagsfan and 193 guests