San Francisco 49ers icon Joe Montana connected with former team owner Eddie DeBartolo for the game-winning touchdown as the Niners rallied to down the All-Stars, 45-40, in the Legends of Candlestick flag football game on Saturday night at Candlestick Park.
"It's a dream come true to get everybody back here," DeBartolo told the San Francisco Chronicle. "And have a fitting end to this stadium. It's a special place that has great, great memories for us that will last forever."
Montana had three touchdown passes while Steve Young rushed for a score. Jeff Garcia added two touchdowns, with one going to Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice.
But it wasn't enough as Montana brought the team back from a 40-32 deficit in the fourth quarter. Ronnie Lott, who reuinted with Montana Saturday, waxed nostalgic and praised the event the following afternoon:
Approximately 25,000 fans attended the game, which benefited the San Francisco Police Foundation and the San Francisco Firefighters Cancer Prevention Foundation, according to the Chronicle.
The 49ers will play at state-of-the-art Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara this season.
DeBartolo reflected on the team's home since 1971.
"This stadium may have had some issues and quirks, but it had character and personality," DeBartolo said. "There will never be another Candlestick Park."
