Do You Remember ?

Frank Beattie 1954-71

The name Francis Whitfield Beattie is revered by supporters of K.F.C. Frank was an inspirational player who could turn a match through his own endeavours. He was skillful, uncompromising in the tackle and strong in the air. Mention of his name evokes memories of a golden era in the history of Kilmarnock F.C. He was kind enough recently, to share some of his memories with us…

How did it all begin?

I always loved kicking a ball about in the streets of the mining village of Plean, where I was born. My uncle bought me a proper leather football when I was very young and used to play with me. My earliest memories of organised football are of playing outside right in St Modan's school team which was very successful. I played with Dunipace Thistle for 2 years, then Bonnybridge Juniors. I had been there for only 6 weeks in 1953, when I was asked to have a trial with Killie. The match was against East Stirling and I must have done quite well because Malky McDonald signed me straight afterwards. For a number of years up until the age of 26, I played part time with Kilmarnock. My main job was as a miner. On two days of the week, I left for work at 6am, worked down the mine from 7am until 2.30pm and then went to my father's house for dinner. I took the train from Larbert to St Enoch and on to Kilmarnock for training. I would not arrive home again until 12.30 or 1 o' clock in the morning. It was a long day with a lot of travelling, but I loved the game. I eventually became a full-time professional in 1960. 

The golden era at Killie?

Willie Waddell's arrival signalled great changes at Rugby Park and I felt that he and I had a good rapport. We had a great bunch of guys then too. A lot of harmony and team spirit was created by the trips made to the United States to play in the invitation tournaments, and by playing top continental teams.

Willie Waddell

Willie Waddell put a very good team together and we came so close to major honours on numerous occasions. Unfortunately, we always seemed to come out second best. We were definitely the most consistent team in the country in the early 1960's and if you keep knocking at the door, eventually you will get in. We finally made it in 1965, but it wasn't until Davie Sneddon scored with his head in the final match versus Hearts that I knew we were going to win the Championship.(More HERE)  I recall leaving my wife at home that day as she was expecting our 2nd daughter. When the final whistle went I remember the mad figure of Willie Waddell running onto the park to give us a big hug. It has been said that I should have won the 'Player Of The Year' that season, but it went to Billy McNeill instead. It was just one of those things, but an 'old firm' player winning the honour would obviously sell more newspapers.

The championship was only one of the highlights of my 19 years with Killie. There were also the great European encounters. Unfortunately, I missed the opportunity of playing against Real Madrid because of injury, but there was the Eintracht Frankfurt game! I didn't enjoy all the travelling abroad, but the games themselves were marvellous to play in. There were some adventures too, such as going to Albania. It was a lovely country, but very poor and it was impossible to spend your money there.

May 14th 1971 Frank Beattie's Testimonial

There are many other memorable moments on the home front too, such as a Killie versus Falkirk match when I scored twice in a 3-0 victory. I also remember a semi-final against Rangers when we lost 6-4, but I had a good game. I broke my leg in a match against Celtic in December 1970 and didn't play again for a year. My Killie career came to an end when I was given a free transfer at the ripe old age of 39. I would like to be remembered as a dedicated professional who always gave of his best - 100% plus in every game.

Life after Killie?

I went on to manage Albion Rovers for 1 season and then Stirling Albion for a further season. After that I retired from football and became a newsagent for the next 20 years. At the moment, I still keep myself very well occupied. I play golf and bowls, both outdoor and indoor and also enjoy spending time with my grandchildren. I still follow Killie's progress and look out for their results. I was very proud when Killie won the Scottish Cup and it was great to see some of the old boys and Malky MacDonald again. Things are obviously going well at Rugby park these days and my final message to Killie fans would be to 'always stand by your team'.

Interview By Donny Muir

Do You Remember... These articles were extracted from the "KTS" (Kissin' the squirrels) KFC fan magazine and are the ownership of ; KTS, baz, & Killiefc.com. Unauthorized reproduction is not permitted without prior consent !