Billy McNeill of Scotland
His abilities also brought him into the Scotland squad. His first appearance was certainly one to forget – in 1961, the Scots lost 9-3 to England! In total, he appeared 29 times in Dark Blue and played his final international game in 1972. He scored three times, including in an 8-0 win over Cyprus in 1969, which is Scotland record post-war victory.
Billy McNeill in Scotland colours – 1972 British Home Championship – Scotland 2 Northern Ireland 0 Scotland s Billy McNeill at Hampden Park, Glasgow. 20/05/1972. Phot IMAGO (The Celtic Star)
17 years between Billy McNeill’s first and last games for Celtic
There were 17 years between Billy McNeill’s first and last games for Celtic. Despite the poor start he had in terms of major trophies (not winning one for seven years), he went on to be a hugely successful figure. In total, he had a very apt 1967 trophy record, namely: 1 European Cup, 9 League titles, 6 League Cups and 7 Scottish Cups.
His final moment in a green-and-white jersey came in May 1975. Celtic met Airdrie in the Scottish Cup Final, hoping to secure more silverware for the season, having already won the Drybrough Cup and League Cup. As ever, McNeill helped drive forward the team, and they claimed a 3-1 win.
Billy McNeill’s Final Glory. Celtic v Airdrie. Scottish Cup Final, 3 May 1975. Photo The Celtic Wiki.
Having won the 90th Scottish Cup, Celtic’s on-field leader was carried across the pitch by his teammates, and received the acclaim of the fans. Although it was his final Celtic game – in a career when he was never once substituted – it was not the end of his time in football, or indeed at Celtic.
Billy McNeill’s Final Glory. Celtic v Airdrie. Scottish Cup Final, 3 May 1975. Photo The Celtic Wiki.
