In memoriam: Stuart Pilling

Scunthorpe United is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Stuart Pilling at the age of 74.

The utility player made 292 appearances for Scunthorpe, scoring 31 goals during his spell between 1973 and 1982. Self-proclaimed as the quickest in the squad in a programme interview conducted with Stuart regarding his teammates nearly a decade ago, Pilling stated that the best team he played alongside was in 1973-74 when United drew with Millwall in the FA Cup. Having already overcome Darlington in Round One and surpassed a replay in Round Two against Mansfield, the team were drawn against the Lions in Round Three. 

Graham Collier netted in the 1-1 draw away from home and it was Pilling who scored after 12 seconds in the replay to win 1-0 at the Old Show Ground. Next up was Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with the side managing to get a 1-1 draw in front of 50,000 people, bringing the tie back to the Old Show Ground. In the end, Scunthorpe lost 3-0 in front of 20,000, but Stuart described it as a “great experience”.

Prior to joining the club, he was at Preston North End juniors from July 1969 before arriving at Hull City a year later and subsequently crossing the River Humber three years after that. Following his departure from the Iron, he would feature for Winterton Rangers.

Living in Bolton since the 1980s, Pilling was invited back to the club as our guest in April 2017 when the Iron took on his hometown team with the Iron triumphing 1-0 over the Trotters on the day.

In recent years, Stuart had battled dementia, but still spoke fondly of his years playing for the club, and until his health battles ensured he came to a game at least once a year.

Everyone at the club would like to send their sincere condolences to Stuart’s family and friends following his sad passing. This story will be updated with funeral information as and when it is confirmed.