Frank Curran

A small but stocky player, Frank Curran joined Southport on a month’s trial at the start of the 1935–36 season, coming from Washington Colliery, a famous nursery club which had given Ernie Vincent to Southport. He was the youngest of three footballing brothers: the eldest, Andrew, played centre-half for Blackpool and Sunderland; James was with Barnsley for eleven seasons, and Jack played once for the England Amateur International team.Retained at the end of his trial period, he was one of nine changes in the side that beat New Brighton in the Northern Section Cup – his first game in the senior side. Although replaced by Jimmy Wynn, he returned to score in the Liverpool Senior Cup tie at New Brighton. He was a surprise selection for the F.A. Cup-tie with Chesterfield at centre-forward. Largely excluded by Tommy McKay in his second term, Curran nevertheless established himself as a prolific scorer in the Reserves.He was involved in an exchange deal that brought George Pateman to Haig Avenue, with both players having the unusual experience of making their débuts against their old clubs. His best season was 1938–39, when he scored 21 goals in 27 games and was easily Bristol Rovers’ top goalscorer. Despite a widely travelled post-war career, he returned to Southport, where he has been a long-term resident.

• Team Photo

Team Photo 1936/37

24th August 2020 Guest Author