Scottish Cup winning captian, Hall of Fame Inductee, and D-Day veteran. Remembering St Mirren legend David Lapsley (1924-2001).
Born on 7th April 1924, Davie had a modest upbringing on the outskirts of Falkirk showing the beginings of his mercurial talent for his school team. His prowess was quickly recognised at a national level, going on trial with the Scotland School Boys Team before signing for High Bonnybridge Rose, and later Bathgate Thistle in 1940.
Like many aspiring footballers of the time, his progression into the senior professional game was disrupted with the outbreak of the Second World War. He was called up to serve in the Royal Navy and was onboard a vessel that took part in the D-Day landings, carrying ammunition across the English Channel to France.
It was whilst he was still a serviceman that he signed for St Mirren following a famous trial that involved him taking penalty kicks. The accuracy and ferocity of his set piece technique became a hallmark of his playing style and as an attacking full back, would regularly find himself on the scoresheet. He would twice end up as the season’s top scorer at the club, a formidable achievement for a player in his position.
In total, Davie spent 13 years with the Buddies, and his place in history was cemented with the famous 3-1 victory over Aberdeen in the 1959 Scottish Cup Final. 108,000 supporters were at Hampden that day to see Davie captain the side.
Since penalty kicks were his speciality, and to mark his commitment to St Mirren throughout his career, his ashes were buried underneath the penalty spot at Love Street following his death in 2001. The council further honoured the legend by naming a street in Paisley 'Lapsley Avenue'.
His wartime experiences had helped mould him into someone that could lead the team to greatness, whilst maintaining his humility and deep sense of humour. Lapsley was inducted into the St Mirren Hall of Fame in 2005 having made a total of 393 appearances, scoring 54 goals.
David Lapsley was a remarkable character. The club are proud to show our support for the Scottish Poppy Appeal and remember him, and all players and supporters of the club, who have fought in conflicts on behalf of their country.
