McLaren, Willie (1931)

Overview

Willie came to the club from Shettleston Juniors as a centre forward, however it was as an inside right that he made his name with Accies. In a match at Tannadice he scored four of Accies goals from that position in a 5-0 win on 16th April 1932. When the club won the Second Eleven Cup in April 1934, Willie scored two of the goals in the first leg at Douglas Park in a 4-1 win over Motherwell, the second game finished goal less.

He was comfortable in any of the other front positions as well. He also played in goal in a match in which Jimmy Morgan was sent off and he saved a penalty that day, against Clyde, in November 1935 at Douglas Park. As a junior he was a prolific scorer and when he was signed by Accies the sum paid was the maximum to a junior club, £75.

Transferred to St Johnstone on 13th October 1936 for a £395 fee. In November 1938 he was signed by Morton, who were in the Second Division at the time and he scored on his debut for them.

Willie was 5’10” and tipped the scales at 11sts 8lbs. Hailed from Glasgow.

Debut on 15th August 1931 in a Scottish League match away to Ayr United in which he scored twice.

Scottish League 138 Appearances 33 Goals (1 Four)

Scottish Cup 10 Appearances 6 Goals

Lanarkshire Cup 7 Appearances 1 Goal

Accies Career

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