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James Dunlop
James Dunlop's story is one of immense tragedy in the Scottish game.
Born and bred in Paisley, he
arrived at Love Street around 1888-1889 from junior side Underwood Strollers.
He first caught the eye in a match at
Roker Park when he partnered James Hill on the left wing and provided the basis for a 2-1 victory over Sunderland. He continued
to impress and was capped by Scotland against Wales in March 1890.
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By this time Dunlop was developing into an accomplished player and was in
the side when Saints played their first ever league match against Renton on the 23rd August 1890. This match was declared
void after Renton were expelled and Saints official first league
match was a week later when Dunlop inspired a 5-2 victory over Cowlairs at Westmarch. During this first season two matches
stand out for Dunlop, a 1-0 victory over Celtic and a 2-1 win against Airdrie
in the Scottish Cup- Dunlop scoring all three goals.
In March 1891, Dunlop was to show his commitment to Saints
by refusing to play in an international trial match as Saints had a game on
the same day. This decision was to deny him a place in the forthcoming International against England.
Tragedy
was to strike during a New Years Day friendly against Abercorn in 1892, when Dunlop fell on a piece of glass, tetanus set
in and he died ten days later at the tender age of 22. Known as 'Daddy' because of his precocious talent for leading
his colleagues, he was acclaimed for the grace and elegance he brought to his inside left role.
A great loss to St. Mirren and Scottish football,
the people of Paisley erected a memorial in his honour and it still stands today in the towns Woodside Cemetery.
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