That back- heel was a fluke, admits Law
DENIS LAW has admitted one of the most famous goals in Manchester derby history was “a fluke” – almost 50 years after he scored it.
Law’s back- heeled winner for City at Old Trafford in April 1974 has entered folklore as the goal that relegated United, ending their 36- year stay in the top flight.
As it was, other results meant United were relegated, irrespective of the 1- 0 defeat courtesy of Law’s goal against the club where he achieved legendary status.
Ahead of today’s Manchester derby, Law recalled the iconic moment, claiming it was down to luck rather than judgment and skill.
“The back- heel was a fluke, yes,” said Law, nicknamed ‘ The King’ by United fans for his formidable goalscoring prowess.
“Well it was! I mean, a back- heel? How do you do a back- heel when you’re there?
“It wasn’t very nice, but that’s the game, isn’t it? It was my last kick of a ball in professional football. Isn’t that strange? That was it, a back- heel.”
Having played for both Manchester clubs, scoring 237 goals for United and 37 for City over two spells, derby day is always a tricky one for Law, who turned 80 this year,.
“I’d be happy with a draw,” he said.
Law has seen one former United teammate, Nobby Stiles, pass away after living with advanced dementia, and another, Sir Bobby Charlton, diagnosed with the degenerative condition.
Asked if he was convinced of the link between heading the ball and players being diagnosed with dementia, Law said: “Absolutely, without a doubt. That’s definitely from the game before. But it’s a different game now.”
The Lawman, a film celebrating Law’s life and career, produced by Buzz16, will be on Sky Docu mentaries on Friday.