I learned last night from the messageboard QPR Report that Billy Beggs has passed away. One of our one game wonders.I think he scored in his one appearance for the Addicks in the Full Members Cup whilst we were at Selhurst .
Ballymena Times
Tuesday 20 March 2012
Mr William Beggs - well known local footballer who played for QPR
Willie Beggs. INBT 12F
Published on Tuesday 20 March 2012 13:23
THE local footballing ‘family’ and the wider Randalstown community as a whole have been saddened by the passing of William Beggs, following a period of illness.
Willie devoted a lifetime to the sport, both in a playing capacity and in the years after his career finished.
“Willie was one of those rare players who, when you had him on your team, you knew you had a good chance of beating anybody else - he was that good,” said Billy O’Flaherty, who coached Willie in his formative years with local youth team Wakehurst Juniors.
Willie’s potential was realised when he signed as an apprentice with Queen’s Park Rangers, coming through the London club’s ranks to reach the first team, where he made one appearance.
During his time at QPR, he formed a close friendship with former Northern Ireland captain Alan McDonald and the pair remained firm friends, often returning to Loftus Road to watch the team in action.
Following his return from England, where he also played for Charlton Athletic, he had a short spell with Coleraine before dropping into junior football.
Even though his former status as a professional prevented him from being able to sign for a junior club, he maintained a strong interest in the local game and also managed Randalstown Athletic in the Saturday Morning League.
Willie’s love for football also directly benefited the youth of his home town of Randalstown, as he co-ordinated a long-running football project in the town which often attracted huge numbers, both in the Neillsbrook Community Centre and on the adjoining outdoor pitches.
Willie worked in a number of delivery jobs and also worked in O’Kane’s pub in his hometown.
His life centred around both his family and football and he never missed a game or training session in which his son Kyle was involved.
A familiar figure around Randalstown - he was also involved with Randalstown Rugby Club and Old Bleach Bowling Club - he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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His only game was v Birmingham in the Full Members Cup in front of 821. Can't say I remember anything about his performance despite being at the game.
Sad news.
I think he scored too in the one game he played but might be wrong ....