We were saddened to hear of the passing of our former player Mike Eckersall (SCAN 663), who died on Thursday 7th March following a short illness.
A native of Bury, Mike was born on February 3rd 1939. After playing for Ainsworth Boys Club and Mossley, he was stationed with the Royal Signals at Denbury in Devon and on demobilisation was signed by Torquay United in October 1959. In his first season he made 11 Western League appearances for the Gulls reserve side before making his Football League debut in 1960
He remained at Plainmoor for four years, making 31 appearances and scoring 2 goals. After being released by Torquay in 1963 he signed for County as a part-time player, a status he maintained throughout his three years at Edgeley Park.
He made his County debut on 14th October 1963 against Workington at Edgeley Park. He scored his first goal, described as “a long left foot drive that sailed into the net” against Millwall at Edgeley Park on the opening day of the 1964-65 season.
He played a significant role in County’s famous FA Cup run during the 1964-64 season, scoring the vital equalising penalty against Wigan in the First Round. He played in all of the cup games, which ended in a fourth round replay defeat to League Champions Liverpool, after County had held the Reds to a draw at Anfield.
It was testament to his ability and fitness that, as a part time player, he made 35 appearances during this challenging season when County, with a young team, finished bottom of the Football League. His part-time status was highlighted when the County team spent four days in Morecambe before their Liverpool replay. Eckersall could not join as he was unable to get time off work.
In February 1965, following his performances in the FA Cup run, he was offered full-time terms with County but decided to remain part-time. In total, Mike made 47 first team appearances for the Hatters (mostly as a right half) scoring three goals. He also made numerous appearances for the reserve side.
After finishing his football career he worked for the Post Office and was a talented crown bowler, playing in many senior competitions in the North West.
Mike and his family recently visited Edgeley Park and he was able to see his name on the Players Wall and the many references to our 1965 cup heroes. He was a key part of that famous team who wrote their names into County history, ensuring he will always be fondly remembered at Edgeley Park. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.
