Welcome to the second instalment of this new and innovating section: Windlaw Legends. This month our featured legend is an extremely popular choice by all known Windlaw players past and present. Step forward the Pierre Van Hooydonk lookalike, Mick O'Brien. Pulled from his warm bed one Saturday morning in the mid 1990's, big Mick became somewhat of a cult hero and although initially spending some time on the bench, unlike numerous others, the big man never complained and always put the interests of the team before himself. After a while, his goalscoring record and unselfish link up play made him a regular first pick and he featured strongly in the Division Two winning team of 1997/98 and followed that up by becoming our top goalscorer the following season. Mick retired at the end of the 2001/02 season and to this day remains part of the club with his continued support behind the scenes.
Few people may realise Mick's part in bringing some of today's squad to the club's attention through his role in running Glenwood FC. Players such as Allan and Zanda Dougall were first spotted having run outs with Glenwood and the big man was on hand to recommend the pick of his younger players to Windlaw.
Undoubtedly, Mick has the biggest pair of mits in the world but for a giant of a man, you couldn't get a Daily Record under him when he jumped for a header. In all seriousness, Mick has been a fantastic and loyal servant to the club, he even helped invent today's dreaded bonus ball scheme!
For the website, big Pierre took the time to answer some questions to help us find out about some of his favourite Windlaw memories.
What was your most memorable Windlaw game?
Against Cambusglen at Barlia in March 1998 in a 1-0 victory. This game virtually assured us of the league and I scored the winner.
Hardest opponent ever faced?
Our own team when they all argued with each other!
What was your best achievement with Windlaw?
Winning the Division Two title in 1997/98.
What was the best ever Windlaw eleven you played in?
4-4-2 formation-John Lunny, John Fitzpatrick, Wullie Thornton, Paul McInally, Pat McLaughlin, Davie McBride, Eck McCaig, Shug Neeson, Kevin McCann, Stevie Thomson, Chris Paterson
Who was the best strike partner you played alongside?
Stevie Thomson
For a big guy, why did you always go down so easily in the box?
I've never took a dive in my life, unlike some I could mention, such as Macky!
What was your hardest away ground to go to?
St Ambrose
Arise big man,you are now officially a Windlaw legend. For a Rangers man ,it must have been a nightmare. Sing along again lads, Pieeeeeeeere ,there's only Pieeeeeeeeeere,…………………..
