Rome, Aug. 13 (LaPresse) – Franco Cresci, one of the defensive pillars of the Emilia-Romagna club between the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, has died in Bologna at the age of 80. Bologna celebrated him with a note published on its website. "Born in Milan on Sept. 15, 1945, a rock-solid defender who grew up at Inter, Cresci wore the Bologna jersey from 1968 to 1979,“ the club recalled. ”With a total of 404 appearances in the league and cups, he is the sixth player in history for number of games played with the red and blue jersey behind Bulgarelli, Roversi, Reguzzoni, Nervo, and Perani. Together with Tazio Roversi, he formed an extraordinary full-back pairing that was the strength of the team throughout the 1970s. He contributed to the club winning two Coppa Italia titles (1970 and 1974) and one Anglo-Italian Cup (1970). A pure goalscorer, skilled both as a full-back and center back, beloved by the Rossoblù fans who mourn him today, Franco was a pillar of our club. Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and the many who loved him. Bologna FC 1909 has lost one of its dearest sons in Franco.
© Copyright LaPresse
