Fairs Cup legend pays tribute to Willie McFaul | OneFootball

David Craig is a lifelong friend of my father and one of the most decent, upstanding men I have had the pleasure to meet.

A couple of weeks ago, he came over to Comber, County Down to see my Father who is poorly, and to see fellow Fairs Cup legend Willie McFaul / Iam McFaul in Antrim hospital.

I had a good catch up with David when he was over.

Then last (Saturday) night, after he had returned from a few holes at the golfing, we caught up again on the phone.

With different discussions, ranging from family matters to the sad demise of Iam.

I asked David Craig; What can you say about Willie McFaul?

“I am honoured that both myself and Bobby Moncur are coming over to Coleraine for Willie’s funeral, to represent not only the Fairs Cup team, but the club.”

I know team mates have a bond but were you especially close because of the Northern Ireland aspect?

“I roomed with Willie throughout our careers and I thought highly of him, both as a professional, and as a person.”

When did you first meet each other?

“I first met Willie in 1960 when he was over at Newcastle United for training and as we arrived back home, I says to Willie, see you for pre-season.

“Willie never arrived, instead signing for Linfield, then in 1966 he did indeed meet me for pre-season, just six years late!

“We travelled the world together, roommates and fellow countrymen for years, and of course, we were in the Fairs Cup winning team back in ’69.

“In Northern Ireland, Pat Jennings was the dominant goalkeeper and denied Willie many caps, but his talent was real, top drawer and a top man to boot.”