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Goal Machine Deans: A Legend Remembered
9 Dec
Summary
- Prolific striker nicknamed Dixie Dean for scoring feats.
- Won six major honours with Celtic, including a Scottish Cup hat-trick.
- Scored 124 goals in 184 appearances for Celtic before moving on.
Scottish football is mourning the loss of Dixie Deans, a celebrated striker who passed away at the age of 79. Deans began his career with Neilston Juniors, quickly gaining renown for his goal-scoring prowess and earning the moniker 'Dixie Dean'. His exceptional talent was evident early on, with a remarkable tally of 60 goals in a single season.
His professional career saw him become a prolific scorer for Motherwell, notching 89 goals in 198 appearances and securing the Second Division title. Despite a disciplinary record that saw him receive several red cards, Celtic manager Jock Stein recognized his attacking potential. Deans moved to Celtic in 1971, where he formed a formidable partnership with Kenny Dalglish, contributing significantly to the team's success.
At Celtic, Deans's scoring streak continued, with hat-tricks in both the 1972 Scottish Cup final and the 1974 League Cup final. He accumulated 124 goals in 184 games for the club, winning six major honours. Though remembered for these triumphs, he is also recalled for a crucial missed penalty in a European Cup semi-final. After leaving Celtic, Deans played for Luton Town and other clubs before retiring in 1980.
