Saddlers Legends

It was almost typical Walsall really in the 70’s. You wait years for a top class goalkeeper and then 2 come along at once! During many of our greatest days in the 70’s and 80’s, Mick Kearns was a certain selection between the posts but it’s safe to say Ron Green wasn’t a bad back-up!

During his 2 spells with the Saddlers Green became a real fans favourite and was always a bit of a character. From 1977 to 1984 Green played over 160 league games for Walsall and he added another 70 when he returned to Fellows Park in 1989.

Ron played in numerous vital matches for Walsall most notably the 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield in our 1984 Milk Cup run. His performance in that game was, as you would expect, first class, and even after making a terrible blunder from a corner with the scores tied at 1-1 he quickly made amends with a terrific save from Kop legend Ian Rush.

When he left Walsall in 1984, Ron’s career went slightly downhill. He joined Shrewsbury before spells at Scunthorpe, Wimbledon and Manchester City and although these were big teams (well maybe not Scunthorpe!), Green’s full potential never really came through.

After retiring in 1991, Ron did come back to have spells with a number of non-league sides and even travelled to Hong Kong for a few games with Happy Valley FC.

He has since worked with Coventry and Walsall and was a big supporter of our Family Fun Day activities last season. He is still a popular figure at the Bank’s Stadium and he recieved a big welcome when he came on to the pitch during half time of our match with Accrington. Walsall fans know a great when they see one!

If you have any memories of Ron Green let us know on our forum.