Alexander “Sandy” Gilligan

Alexander Gilligan, was born at Laing Street Dundee, only a stones throw from Dens Road. He came from a footballing family, having three brothers, all of whom played for local junior clubs, before making a career in the game as professionals. Two of them, William and Sam, also played for Dundee F.C.

He started out with junior club East Craigie, moving to East End in 1889. He was one of the original signings when the newly formed Dundee F.C. came into being. His wage was 10 shillings a week.

Sandy played in the first match at West Craigie Park against Glasgow Rangers, in a 3-3 draw, and scored the first goal for Dundee, a header, that was “cheered again and again” by the spectators. He had spurned a few chances earlier in the game, and Sandy Keillor had had a goal disallowed, but his determination won through, and it was he who would have the honour of being Dundee’s first goalscorer in a league game.

He formed a great partnership with Sandy Keillor, and was known for his “picture passes” down the wing. They were a popular pairing with the supporters.

The start of the 1986-97 season saw Gilligan, along with fellow team mate Thomson, move to Bolton Wanderers, where he finished his playing career in 1900.

On his return to the city of Dundee, he took up employment as a riveter at Caledon Shipyard. But football was still in his blood, and he took to coaching junior club East Craigie, whom his son, Sandy, also played for. He was also a keen bowler, being a member of the Baxter Park club. He was also a keen gardener, and had an allotment.

In 1946 Sandy’s daughter, Jemima, was awarded the British Empire Medal for her part in supervising the making of hundreds of anti-torpedo nets.

Sandy died in 1952, aged 79. He is buried in the Eastern Cemetery, Dundee.