Martin Spendiff

Born:

24.06.1880

Birthplace:

North Shields

Height:

6' 0"

Weight:

12st 1lb

Position:

Goalkeeper

Debut:

02.09.05 Barnsley (h) 4-1

Joined From:

Grimsby Town (May 1905)

Left For:

Bradford City (April 1908)

Died:

18.10.1943

Elected:

September 2000

Clubs:

South Shields Athletic. Amateur
North Shields Athletic. Amateur
Grimsby Town
HULL CITY
Bradford City
Millwall
Grimsby Town

Profile:

The original Tiger custodian, Spendiff was an immaculate pioneer for successive City keepers, with his assured handling and general demeanour. He notched up over a century of appearances for both clubs on opposite banks of the Humber and was held in the same high esteem by both sets of fans. Consistent and reliable throughout this spell he was a useful acquisition to the fledgling City squad and demonstrated the same level of ability and consistency whilst on duty for the Tigers.

He first two seasons for the Tigers saw his name omitted from the team sheet only once and it was very rare for the blame to be directed in Spendiff's direction when the opponents had the temerity to score. The development of Eddie Roughley allowed the Tigers to cash in on Spendiff's talent and his sale to Bradford brought much needed cash into the club's coffers. The fans were disappointed at losing this popular goalkeeper whose bravery at the feet of opposing forwards was legendary.