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The Enigma of Robin Friday: The cult hero who burned out too soon

Robin Friday was a footballer with a talent that was matched only by his controversial behaviour on and off the field. He began his career at Reading FC in the 1970s, quickly making a name for himself as a skilled and powerful forward. However, his antics both on and off the field often landed him in trouble with coaches, teammates, and even the law.

Despite his troubles, Friday’s talent on the pitch could not be denied. He led Reading to promotion to the Second Division in 1976 and was the division’s top scorer in the 1976-77 season. He was also voted the club’s Player of the Year for three consecutive seasons.

Friday was a prolific goal scorer during his time at Reading FC. He joined the club in the 1973-74 season and quickly established himself as a key player, scoring 15 goals in his first full season. He continued to be a consistent goal scorer for the club, finishing as the top goal scorer for Reading in the 1974-75 and 1975-76 seasons.

In the 1976-77 season, Friday’s goal scoring exploits helped Reading achieve promotion to the Second Division. He scored an impressive 29 goals in the league that season, earning him the Second Division Golden Boot and the Reading FC Player of the Year award.

Friday’s goal scoring record at Reading is even more impressive when considering the fact that he was often utilized in midfield and not just as a forward. He had an eye for goal, and his ability to score from different positions on the field made him a dangerous player for any defence to deal with.

During his time at Reading, Friday scored a total of 63 league goals in 137 appearances, making him one of the club’s all-time top goal scorers. His goal scoring record at the club is still remembered and celebrated by Reading fans today.

Friday’s off-field behaviour, however, continued to be a problem. He was frequently involved in altercations in bars and night clubs, and even served time in prison for assault. His behaviour led to a falling out with Reading’s management, and he was sold to Cardiff City in 1978.

Friday’s time at Cardiff was short-lived, as his off-field behaviour continued to be an issue. He retired from professional football in 1980 at the age of 27, having made a total of only 97 league appearances.

Off Field Problems

He was known for his hard-partying lifestyle and his tendency to get into altercations in bars and nightclubs. He also had a history of legal trouble, including a conviction for assault.

One of Friday’s most notable off-field incidents occurred in 1977 when he was arrested and charged with assault after getting into a fight with a group of police officers. He was sentenced to six months in prison but was released after serving only three months.

Friday’s off-field behaviour was a constant source of conflict with coaches and teammates, as well as club management. His antics often led to disciplinary action, and his behaviour was a major factor in his departure from Reading FC in 1978.

Despite his off-field problems, Friday’s talent on the field was undeniable. However, his off-field behaviour ultimately had a negative impact on his career, as he retired from professional football at the age of 27, having made only 97 league appearances.

It’s worth noting that Friday’s behaviour was not unique in the 70s as a culture of heavy drinking, smoking and partying was common among footballers at that time and it was considered part of the “rock star” image that some players had. But Friday’s behaviour was on another level and it was not just the clubs who had to deal with it but also the authorities.

You can read more about the life of Robin Friday by clicking the link below
https://amzn.to/402JHFT

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