Richard Beard | |||||||
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OVERALL STATISTICS | |||||||
| BIRTH | AGE | SIGNED ON | FROM | ||||
| DEBUT | LAST MATCH | LEFT | |||||
| CAREER | APPEARANCES (SUBS) | ||||||
| TRIES | GOALS | DGOALS | PTS | ||||
Biography of Richard Beard |
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 HERITAGE NO : Richard Craighill Beard MAORI CALL Richard was born in Nether Graveship near Kendal in 1860. His father, also named Richard, was an engine fitter in a factory. Ten years later he was recorded as living at 7 Bridge St Kendal. It is possible that young Richard also trained as an Engine Fitter because the 1881 has a Richard Beard, born in Kendal, lodging in premises in Rochdale. The age does not match his birthdate but those records are not 100% accurate. Richard Beard was a prominent player with Kendal Hornets. Nicknamed ‘Dadger’, the History of Football in Kendal describes him as: A forward with immense power and pluck, and his heart full of the game, and speedier men were hard to find; winner of many prizes as an athlete, and very popular all round.” He played just two matches for the Saints and it is probable that these appearances were instigated by agent provocateur, Billy Cross. The first was the much anticipated fixture on the 14th of March 1889 when thousands flocked to Dentons Green to see the Saints meet the challenge of the New Zealand Maoris. The Saints also obtained the services of star Leigh player Jack Hurst. Imports not withstanding, the Maoris had too much class for the Saints. Richard played once more for the Saints, this time in an away fixture against Millom. It was more than likely that Richard was picked up en route by Billy Cross and gang. The Saints lost that day to a tough Millom outfit. Richard married Sarah Elizabeth Lee in 1895. In 1901 he is described as the innkeeper of the Bishop Blaize in Kendal. Sadly his wife He passed away later that year. Richard himself did not outlive his spouse by much, he died on the 18th November 1902, aged 42. |
| Date | Match | Pos | Opponents | Comp | Venue | FT | FTO | T | G | DG | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14th Mar 1889 | 1 | L |
11 | Maoris* | FR | H | 0 | 7 | VIEW | |||
| 3rd May 1890 | 2 | L |
7 | Millom* | L | A | 4 | 5 | VIEW |
| *Unofficial Match. **Non Playing Sub. |
| WINS : | LOSSES : 2 | DRAWS : |
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