Liverpool’s ‘Flying Pig’ Lawrence dies, aged 77

Goalkeeper Tommy Lawrence, part of the first great Liverpool side under Scottish manager Bill Shankly, has died aged 77, the club announced Wednesday.

Lawrence, affectionately known as ‘The Flying Pig’ for his acrobatic saves despite being of portly build, was a member of the side that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966, not missing a match in the latter campaign.

He also won the FA Cup in 1965.

Capped three times by Scotland, Lawrence only missed four league matches from 1963 to 1969. He conceded only 24 goals in the 1968-69 season, which was a record for the lowest conceded at the time in the old First Division.

However, the emergence of Ray Clemence in the late 1960s heralded the end of his tenure as first choice, and after being dropped for an FA Cup tie in the 1970-71 season he left for nearby Tranmere Rovers, managed by his former Liverpool teammate Ron Yeats.

Lawrence made a total of 390 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.

Lawrence finished his playing career at non-league side Chorley. After hanging up his boots, he returned to the same factory he had worked in prior to playing for Liverpool, remaining there until he retired.

“The thoughts of everybody at the club are with Tommy’s family and friends at this sad time,” Liverpool said in a statement.