Phil 'Goughy' Gough - a tribute

Phil Gough, known to his friends as Goughy, lived and breathed FC United and we were devastated to hear about his recent passing. He could always be found on the terraces or selling programmes and welcoming everyone, new or old, to Broadhurst Park.

For years, Goughy was simply a fan on the terraces, but found an even deeper sense of belonging at FC United when he began to sell programmes with his good friend Tom Stott. It made sense: Goughy had the full collection of programmes. His dedication to this hobby would see him arrive to away games before other supporters would even be out of bed. He would always arrive as early as 9.30am in the morning for 3pm kick offs, even for the furthest away games, just to ensure he secured his programme and match tickets before they ran out. He loved the club so much, he would be afraid of missing the games, so he had to get there early to ensure this didn’t happen. His friends would ask – “what are you doing there so early, Goughy?!”.

Arriving early to games was not only for his own enjoyment, it would also be to help his friends. If his friends asked him to get them a programme, he would ensure he was first in line to follow up on that promise he made to them. He was generous to the extreme and always willing to help people out, and very few people knew the depths of his kindness. He would bring tubs of cakes and other treats for his friends to enjoy on away days, though he didn’t see it as being generous, it was just Goughy being Goughy. Whether it be securing programmes, purchasing meals and paying for petrol when his friends were in need, or bringing in small treats to share, he would always put others first, with a heart bigger than the SMRE.

He hardly ever missed an FC United game. If he could get there, he would be there. His away match routine included enjoying a carvery on the way home with his dear FC friends Mark Lee, Sam Coates, Keira Jones and Peter Gleave. While most of the group would enjoy a pint with their meal, Goughy would religiously have a glass of milk with his, and he even put a little meat aside to give to Peter’s dog Holly when they got home, testament to his generous nature. He would also take a photo with his meal and send it to his family, who he loved dearly. Family first, he’d always call home to tell them he’d arrived safely wherever we were playing.  

Goughy loved FC United, his life revolved around the club. When something new was released in the club shop, Goughy had to have it, he had all the merchandise. He made t-shirts for special trips, he had one packed in his bag ready for Rimini this weekend. His family have made a flag which will be in Rimini, so please look out for it and raise a glass to Goughy.

Funeral details

Goughy’s family would like to invite all of his friends from FC United to his funeral, they have provided the details as follows:

Friday 17^th June 2022 at 9.30am: Hollinwood Cemetery/Crematorium, Roman Road, Hollinwood OL8 3LU

We will be following on from the funeral to the FC United Clubhouse at 11.30am: Broadhurst Park 310 Lightbowne Road, Moston Manchester M40 0FJ

Please join us as we say goodbye to an incredible father, grandfather, brother and friend. FC was a huge part of Phil and there would be no place better to celebrate his life.

Everyone is welcome, anyone wishing to attend wearing FC United attire would be very welcome and this would be appreciated by the family. Please let son Ste Gough know if you will be attending Broadhurst Park so numbers can be known for catering purposes – email Stephen.d.gough@gmail.com or text 07594 809 184.