Knox lets seven players go

In April 1973 ‘Lockheed manager Jimmy Knox released seven of the Leamington club’s 16 professionals in a bid to bring about a dramatic improvement at The Windmill.   And he admitted this week that it was “a most upsetting task.  Since I took control the team has given me everything, but it is obvious that new blood is needed and I have been forced to ring the changes.”  Players released are goalkeeper Peter King, full backs Mel Davis, Mick Cartwright and Steve Sherry, and forwards John Moreton, Graham Jessop and Dennis Walker.

 Of the players left only Barry Whitlock can be classified as a striker.  And Knox says that it is the front line that will receive most of his attention during the close season.  “There is nothing wrong with our defence – in fact I have been more than pleased with their organisation.   But I must find more punch if we are to make any impact.”  Walker’s omission from the retained list is the major shock.  He is the club’s leading goal scorer this season with a total of 18 goals in 43 matches.’   Another report noted ‘Don’t be surprised if Knox goes back to Rugby, now struggling, to strengthen the side.’

Having drawn 0-0 at home with Racing Club Warwick in the Leamington Charity Invitation Cup semi-final, Lockheed then drew 1-1 in the return fixture.   ‘Racing proved that there are several players in the Leamington area who would not be out of their depth in the Southern League.  And Knox, who had to survive on a shoestring budget at Rugby Town has already made it clear that he is keen to attract local talent to the Windmill.  “Racing were a great advert for Mid-Warwickshire football,” he said, “and I am convinced that there must be other good prospects in the district.  I would never turn anyone away and I hope that as many lads as possible will come to our close season training sessions.  I will give them all a chance to show what they can do.” 

Knox was also highly impressed with the social atmosphere at Racing’s Hampton Road headquarters.   Said Knox: “I am a great believer in this sort of thing.   Nothing is better for team spirit and it gives the supporters a chance to meet the player.  I certainly hope that we will be able to provide similar facilities at Lockheed in the not too far distant future.  

‘Racing Club chalked up a famous victory at The Windmill on Saturday evening in the semi-final replay of the Leamington Charity Invitation Cup.  Lockheed were out of touch in the first 15 minutes and goals by John Bull and Syd Hall put the amateurs in control.  But then Brakes rallied strongly and drew level through Steve Harry and Tony Bowden. 

Racing regained the initiative just before the interval, however, when Bull sprinted clear to steer home an opportunist goal, and Ivor Talbot clinched their success in the second half when he took advantage of another fine run by Bull.   This was an excellent record by Racing Club who showed far more flair than their professional hosts.  Much of the inspiration came from midfield man Ken Vale with Ian Montgomery and Hall – all three former Lockheed players.’

As a disappointing season drew to a close, Brakes pinned their hopes on the Birmingham Senior Cup final against Darlaston.