Vale’s team of ’68 reflects on success

Dec 5 2008 by Lynn Duke, Strathearn Herald

FORMER players of one of Strathearn’s top teams of all time met up on Saturday for an evening of reacquainting and reminiscing

Members of the Vale of Earn FC’s talented team of 1968 were reunited at Crieff Golf Club 40 years on from one of Strathearn’s most successful periods in its footballing history.

The season of ’68 saw the Market Park boys reach the Scottish Cup Final and win the Perthshire 1st Division Championship. Former player Ronnie McKay organised the reunion at Crieff Golf Club last Saturday to which almost every member of the legendary squad turned up.

The evening started with a one minute silence in honour of the three team members who have since passed away - Newton Ritchie, David Hutchison and Danny Sweeney.

But the gathering was also a chance to pay tribute to Billy Tracey who managed the club during its victorious years. Hailed as one of Vale’s most successful managers, Bill was toasted and presented with a crystal decanter as an acknowledgement for all his hard work in training, managing and encouraging the team. The honour came as a complete surprise to Bill who, unusually was at a loss for words.

Main speaker of the evening John Strachan recalled Bill from his playing days in the early sixties and in particular a match that John, Bill and Alec Brock had played in for the Vale against Glasgow Celtic’s 2nd team. Around 3000 spectators filled the Market Park to watch the fiercely fought friendly which ended in a 3-3 draw.

Bill was described as a down to earth character whose drive, enthusiasm and love of the game spurred the black and white stripes to punch above their weight.

After a delicious dinner, the night concluded with more footie tales and memories stirred up after photos from the good old days were passed around.