Sauchie's Connor Willaghan named Advertiser Sport Player of the Year

In a season where the club has had highs and lows, Willaghan has been a part of it all, turning out 34 times across what has been a 40-game season in all competitions.

Keen stattos should also note that a staggering 3,006 minutes were completed by the ever-present right back, seeing the full 90 minutes completed in all but two games.

Reflecting on what he could only summarise as ‘a bit of a rollercoaster’, the defender told Advertiser Sport: “It has been a very difficult season for a number of reasons, which has, of course, had an effect on the team. 

"We had started the season strongly and had gathered a bit of momentum, but the points deduction (the team were deducted 15 points in November for fielding ineligible players) had a significant impact on that and our aims in the league this season.

"Since the deduction, the aim has been to battle away and try to put as many points on the board as possible. 

"We have had some strong performances with good results since then, but also a few disappointing results, so it really has been a bit of a rollercoaster.”

In the previous season, he had only netted a singular goal, but in this current term, there are four to his name.

With goals against Edinburgh University, Haddington Athletic and Luncarty in the league, while also rescuing what would be a late winner to see the team through a tough South Challenge Cup test away to Kello Rovers, where they won the game 2-1.

Speaking of his own contributions, Willaghan continued: “Getting forward from the full back position and helping in the attack is a big part of my game, so it has been great to be able to chip in with a few goals this season, along with trying to get as many assists as possible.” 

And then on the importance of clean sheets in a highly competitive league, he went on: “I want to take that into next season as well, but the main focus being a defender is to ensure I am on it defensively to try and help the back four and goalkeeper keep clean sheets.

"Clean sheets are key in any league, but many games in our league are tight and won by the odd goal, so a solid defence is crucial if we want success.”

The defender is one of the most experienced in the Beechwood Park dressing room, having previously played youth football at Stenhousemuir, in the Lowland League with Edinburgh University and amateur football with Clackmannan.

This expertise has been crucial in the last 10 months, especially given the club's off-field challenges, player movements, and the inclusion of youngsters from the club's under-20s squad.

During the season, the team saw more than its fair share of players coming through and exiting the doors of Beechwood Park.

He said: “It has been difficult, we lost a number of key players mid-way through the season which did impact results but we have also brought in a few lads during the season who have made a positive contribution to the club.” 

Sauchie Juniors supporters will be pleased to know that Willaghan has put pen to paper, committing his future until the summer of 2027 to start what will be his fourth season at the club. 

He also spoke of his affinity with the club as a local lad himself, adding: “As a young boy growing up in Tullibody, I used to come up to Beechwood [Park] regularly with my Dad to watch Sauchie play, so it is great to be a part of the club now.

"I love playing football here, I am delighted to have signed a new contract. 

“There aren’t many clubs around like this. Not only is it a great bunch of lads in the team, but the set-up is fantastic, and there are a lot of great people who do a lot of work behind the scenes to make it the place it is.

"It has a real community feel to it, and the players have a good relationship with fans and people who help out every week, which makes it a brilliant club to be a part of."

The team wrapped up their season at the weekend with a 2-0 defeat against Dunbar United and Willaghan spoke of how they would go forward now.

He said: “It has been a testing season both on and off the park for the group, so I think the priority for now is to have a break, rest and recharge and regroup for pre-season. 

"When we return at the end of June, we will discuss our aims and ambitions for the season and get a good pre-season under our legs, so we are ready to hit the ground running.”

Willaghan also wished to pay a special tribute to midfielder Brian Morgan, who passed away last month.

He added: “I want to dedicate this award to Brian Morgan. Morgy was one of the first to welcome me to the club three years ago and became not only a great teammate but also a great friend, and I will cherish the memories I had with him."

He continued: “He is without a doubt the best player to ever have played for Sauchie, and it was a real privilege to play alongside him. He was an outstanding talent. 

"The memory of winning the League Cup last season against Haddington (Athletic) in extra time with Morgy scoring the winner is my most memorable in football. 

"A winner and a warrior on the park, but more importantly, an absolute gentleman off the park who would do anything for his family and friends. He will never be forgotten. 

"Rest in Peace, Morgy.”