THE Port Adelaide Football Club is saddened by the passing of Premiership player Randall Gerlach

The 65-year-old was part of the club’s historic drought breaking 1977 Grand Final winning team.

He played 110 games between 1971 and 1977, primarily as a key forward and was the club’s leading goal kicker in 1976 with 90 goals.

Despite a debilitating kidney condition, Gerlach played on in 1977 against medical advice booting more than 40 goals but finishing the season in defence and as a back-up ruckman.

He retired after the memorable Grand Final success at just 24 because of his health.

Randall Gerlach died peacefully surrounded by family on Friday.

His loss will be felt by all at Port Adelaide, including his former club mates.

The Port Adelaide Football Club sends its condolences to his wife Marilyn, his children Amanda, Melanie and Luke and the rest of his family and friends.

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