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“I’d half practised it!” – Sheffield United cult hero reveals true story behind Bramall Lane’s most audacious goal

Former Sheffield United striker Dean Saunders has recalled the ingenious finish against Port Vale that he had secretly practised in training before springing it on goalkeeper Paul Musselwhite.

Published: Saturday, 3 October 2026 at 9:00 AM
“I’d half practised it!” – Sheffield United cult hero reveals true story behind Bramall Lane’s most audacious goal
Key Things to Know
  • Dean Saunders revealed he practiced the technique behind his audacious throw-in goal against Port Vale in March 1998.
  • Sheffield United defeated Port Vale 2-1 after Saunders threw the ball off goalkeeper Paul Musselwhite's back to score.
  • Saunders reflected fondly on his time at Bramall Lane playing under Nigel Spackman, Steve Thompson, and Steve Bruce.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Sheffield United striker Dean Saunders has recalled his famous inventive goal against Port Vale from March 1998, revealing he had partially practiced the technique in training. Saunders scored during the 2-1 victory after chasing down a pass from Traianos Dellas, intentionally throwing a throw-in off the back of retreating goalkeeper Paul Musselwhite before calmly slotting the ball into the net.

Speaking to The Star via Betpack, the 62-year-old explained that similar routines were used during two-touch training drills. Saunders reflected warmly on his two-season spell at Bramall Lane under managers Nigel Spackman, Steve Thompson, and Steve Bruce, noting that the club also made a £500,000 profit when selling him to Benfica following an initial free transfer.

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