by Staff Writer
Sunday, 19th October 2025
An event in memory of the West Ham United supporter who was killed in Madrid 45 years ago is being staged in Romford next month.
Frankie Sait (pictured below) was just 18 years-old when he was killed in mysterious circumstances during West Ham's trip to Madrid in September 1980, where John Lyall's side were due to face Castilla in the first round of the Cup Winners Cup.
The West Ham-mad teenager was crushed by a coach after the game, which ended in a 3-1 defeat for the Hammers. You may read more about Frankie's story and untimely passing here.
Due to a UEFA ruling, the return leg - later labelled Upton Park's 'ghost match' - was played behind closed doors, a game in which the Hammers triumphed 5-1 after extra time in order to win the tie 6-4 on aggregate.
And now some of the members of the team that played that night in West Ham's thrilling win - including Alan Devonshire, Phil Parkes, David Cross, Geoff Pike and Patsy Holland - are to reconvene at the RUISSC Club in Romford for an evening in memory of Frankie - as confirmed by family friend, Nigel Tuffnell.
"I first got in contact with (Frankie's brother) John a few years ago and asked if he would like me to try and get a memorial for Frankie," Nigel told KUMB.
"I suppose from the moment he said he and the family would like a memorial the campaign started. I remember the incident well and it's haunting that someone would go to watch West Ham and never come back, due to what many people think was a deliberate act.
"It's a tragic event in West Ham's history that goes under the radar even though there was a march on Downing Street by supporters. There was never any justice and the blame put on the travelling fans. Hopefully the true circumstances of Frankie's death have come to light.
"Also, many - if not all - of the players didn't know what really happened that night and were unaware of Frankie's death.
"After speaking to Ian Morgan of E13 Events, he had the idea of the event and to dedicate it to Frankie's memory. We are very thankful to Ian for sorting this out, he has done a brilliant job. And John misses Frankie every day, as do all his brothers and sisters."
If you would like to attend the event, which takes place on Friday, 14 November (6.30pm start) you may purchase tickets via E13 Events on 07958 472847.
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