Coach is on his way out
By Sahil Jaidka • Published 5 Jul 2012 09:30
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SAFE HANDS: Goalkeeping coach Billy Peacock is heading for Arthurlie
Fresh challenge for dedicated Burgh servant
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JOHNSTONE Burgh coach Billy Peacock is set to leave the club after a second stint at Keanie Park, with Arthurlie his destination.
The 57-year-old has been at the club for four years during his current spell and helped the team clinch promotion in 2010.
However, the mouthwatering challenge of competing against some of the best junior sides has tempted Peacock away.
The ex-Renfrew and Benburb star however showed his love for the club after agreeing to postpone his move and help with pre-season training as manager George Walker and assistant Eddie McKim are away on holiday.
The departing goalkeeping coach told Gazette Sport: "It is a step up for me and you are playing against a lot of the bigger sides such as Irvine Meadow and Pollok amongst big crowds.
"At 57 years of age, you have to say to yourself, are you past it? However, if you still have the hunger for the game and the appetite you should go for it.
"It will be a good challenge, I am up for it and I think this will be a good move for me.
"I am sorry to leave the club after my second stint, the first one being when the club got to the Junior Cup final.
"I just hope George, Eddie and the committee would take me back if things don't work out at Arthurlie.
"Actually, I was supposed to be at Arthurie just now, however due for Eddie and George going on holiday, I couldn't leave like that.
"I have cleared it with Arthurlie and Mark Cameron was fine with that, so I will stay here for the next six training sessions and get the boys fit, then move on to Arthurlie.
Peacock also insists Burgh have what it takes to clinch promotion this season and thanked those at the club.
He added: "We went close last year, for the Burgh this season will be big in terms of promotion, the potential is there.
"I would like to thank George, Eddie, Raymond, Ricky and all of the players who have been wonderful to work with.
"I wish the team and the committee all the best for the new season."
Good friend, long term colleague and old team-mate Eddie McKim laid praise to Peacock's work at the club and wished him the best for the future.
"He was here when I first came in 1991, we have been about the game for 30 years.
"We first met in 1976 as young boys playing at Pollok. Billy left and we went to Benburb, we have had a friendship since then.
"He is a loss to the club, the boys like and respect him.
"I wish him all the best and he will do well. I am sad to see him go, but that is football."
This article appeared in The Gazette 05 Jul 12
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