MORTON’S ROLE
Ex-player Andy Ritchie has cameo in play about club
A FOOTBALL legend is about to make his acting debut – aged 61. Former Morton star Andy Ritchie – dubbed the King of Cappielow – will tread the boards for the first time in a play showcasing the club’s history. As a teenager, Andy had trials with Manchester United, Coventry City, Everton, Middlesbrough and Rangers, but chose to join Celtic in 1971, aged 15.
He soon fell out with manager Jock Stein, and in 1976 he was transferred to Morton, where he scored 133 goals in 246 games.
He was the top scorer in the Premier Division in 1978-79.
The comedy drama Mon Eh Ton! hits the stage at the Beacon Theatre in Greenock this week.
Andy said: “I’ve had the dress rehearsal and it went well. It will be a chance to have a good night and celebrate the club.
“I have a cameo role and I don’t think I will win an Oscar but you never know.
“There will be a few sing-songs and a few laughs and I might throw in a few ad-libs.
“It will be a great night. It gives me a chance to see the supporters and have a laugh.
“The club have a tremendous history and I’ve got a small part in that. In the 70s, things weren’t going well but they made a few good signings and it picked up.
“I’m proud to have been part of that and can’t wait for the show.”
For more info, go to www.beaconartscentre.co.uk/events and click on Mon Eh Ton!