WATSON, James (1910)

Overview

A Motherwell man who had been with Cambuslang Rangers before moving to Earnock Rovers from whom he joined Accies. Another of the side which was responsible for the club’s excellent Scottish Cup run in 1911, when they reached the Final, only to lose to Celtic in a replay.

The following season he was the only ever present in the side. Up until his call up to the forces he missed only 8 League matches from a possible 167 from the date of his debut. A presentation was made to him in the Royal Hotel on 27th October 1915, prior to joining his regiment, the Glasgow Highlanders. Played for his regiment against Ayr United on 15th September 1915 in a 5-4 win. While in the forces he appeared for Accies when leaves permitted. An excellent keeper in his time at Douglas Park. He held the record for the number of League appearances by an Accies goalkeeper for many years.

When the war was over he moved to Dundee where he spent a couple of years before going south to Luton Town. In season 1921-22 he was starring for Exeter City during their giant killing run in the English Cup. In 1923 he was back in Scotland with Armadale.

Debut on 17th December 1910 in a Scottish League match at home to Raith Rovers.

Scottish League 168 Appearances (42 Clean Sheets)

Scottish Cup 13 Appearances (4 Clean Sheets)

Lanarkshire Cup 10 Appearances (4 Clean Sheets)

Accies Career