Saddlers icon and legend Alan Buckley will be back at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium this Saturday afternoon as the Saddlers take on another of his former clubs, Grimsby Town.The match, which should be forever known as the Alan Buckley derby, will see Buckley receive the first-ever Walsall FC Honour Cap, recognising individuals who have made a significant contribution to the history of the football club.Established by the Walsall FC Former Players' Association, the initiative is funded and supported by lifelong supporter Alan Pithers, Managing Director of Bailey & Mackey Limited.
As Walsall's all-time leading goalscorer, Buckley made 484 appearances for the Saddlers and scored a club-record 205 goals across two spells at Fellows Park, between 1973-1978 and 1979-1984.
Amongst his many memorable moments in our colours was his performance against Manchester United in the FA Cup in 1975, where he famously scored a brace to help the Saddlers eliminate the First Division giants.
Buckley would go on to make his mark in the dugout too. He became player-manager at the start of the 1979-80 season, having re-signed for the club from Birmingham City.
He guided the Saddlers back to the Third Division at the first attempt that season, which also included a club record 21 consecutive matches without defeat.
Buckley also famously led the club to the semi-finals of the Milk Cup in 1984. The run included a famous 2-1 win away to Arsenal and a place in the final looked a possibility when the Saddlers drew 2-2 in the first leg of their semi-final against Liverpool, only to bow out of the competition after losing the second leg 2-0 on home soil.
Speaking via the club's official website, Alan said: "I’m absolutely delighted and very honoured to be the first recipient of an Honour Cap.
"I’ve got so many wonderful memories of my time at Walsall, from playing at Fellows Park to creating some wonderful memories as manager.
"To be recognised in this way, alongside some of the people who have played such an important part in the club’s history, is something I’m extremely proud of."
Saturday's occasion will have added significance as Buckley is also highly regarded as a legendary figure in the history of our opponents, Grimsby Town.
Buckley’s successes sees him widely regarded as one of Grimsby Town’s greatest-ever managers, having enjoyed three successful spells in charge.
Saturday's occasion will have added significance as Buckley is also highly regarded as a legendary figure in the history of our opponents, Grimsby Town.
Buckley’s successes sees him widely regarded as one of Grimsby Town’s greatest-ever managers, having enjoyed three successful spells in charge.
He guided the Mariners to back-to-back promotions in 1989/90 and 1990/91, before leading them to a historic Wembley double in 1997/98, winning the Auto Windscreens Shield and Division Two play-off final.
With his unique connection to both clubs, Saturday's fixture will provide a fitting setting to receive the first Honour Cap.
Ahead of kick-off this weekend, Alan will join supporters in the Restaurant and 1888 Lounge before heading onto the pitch at half-time to greet fans and take part in a special Q&A.
The Honour Caps will be selected by a panel from the Former Players Association, comprising of Mick Kearns, Richard O’Kelly and Chairman Matty Fryatt.
Alan Pithers, Managing Director of Bailey & Mackey Limited, said: "We have such a proud history and so many players have contributed to making this club what it is today.
With his unique connection to both clubs, Saturday's fixture will provide a fitting setting to receive the first Honour Cap.
Ahead of kick-off this weekend, Alan will join supporters in the Restaurant and 1888 Lounge before heading onto the pitch at half-time to greet fans and take part in a special Q&A.
The Honour Caps will be selected by a panel from the Former Players Association, comprising of Mick Kearns, Richard O’Kelly and Chairman Matty Fryatt.
Alan Pithers, Managing Director of Bailey & Mackey Limited, said: "We have such a proud history and so many players have contributed to making this club what it is today.
"The Honour Cap is a fantastic way of recognising those individuals and ensuring their achievements continue to be celebrated by future generations.
"Alan Buckley is a hugely deserving first recipient, and I’m delighted to be able to support this initiative."
The panel will consider the achievements, longevity and wider contribution of individuals who have made a significant contribution to the club when selecting future recipients.
Matty Fryatt, Chairman of the Former Players Association, said: "The Former Players Association is delighted to be involved in the introduction of the Honour Cap.
The panel will consider the achievements, longevity and wider contribution of individuals who have made a significant contribution to the club when selecting future recipients.
Matty Fryatt, Chairman of the Former Players Association, said: "The Former Players Association is delighted to be involved in the introduction of the Honour Cap.
"We wanted to create something that properly recognises the players who have left a lasting legacy at Walsall, and Alan Buckley is the perfect person to receive the first one.
"His numbers alone tell you what he achieved here, but his impact goes far beyond the 205 goals.
"He was a fantastic player, a successful manager and remains a hugely respected figure around the club."
Via: Walsall FC
Via: Walsall FC