Phil Crawley: Pirton's 'Teener'

[anthony.brown]

From the Hertfordshire Express of Saturday 6th September 1930

Express Pen Sketches
Phil Crawley

Phil Crawley, who at present is occupying the centre-half position in Hitchin's second eleven, is a native of Pirton, in which village he played his first game of organised football. His first five seasons were with Pirton Athletic, to which club he returned for a further three seasons after playing for Hitchin Athletic (now an extinct club) for two years. From Pirton, where he always played at centre-half, he came to Hitchin, playing in the club's first eleven in the 1928-29 season.
During the years 'Teener' played for Pirton that club made a fine collection of 'pots'. They won the North Herts League, Greg Cup, Benevolent Shield, and Hitchin Hospital Cup, and twice were runners-up for the League Cup and the Hitchin Hospital Cup.
At Hitchin, Phil scored 45 goals during his first season, and materially assisted the club to win the Herts Charity Shield and the Hitchin Hospital Cup. During that season the club were also runners-up for the Spartan League championship.
Crawley, who was married a few years ago, is a real hard worker, and can always be relied upon to pull his weight. He has an indomitable spirit, and will never give in. A real sportsman.