Denis: Bertie had wit to wither anyone
PARTICK THISTLE legend Denis McQuade paid tribute to Bertie Auld last night – insisting his old boss had a dressing-room wit every bit as sharp as his famed footballing ability.
After hanging up his boots Auld took over the Jags in 1974 and led Thistle to the First Division title two years later, romping home six points clear of Kilmarnock after losing just two games from 26.
He would repeat the feat with Hibs in 1981. But it was in a six-year spell with the Jags – after replacing League Cup winning boss Davie McParland – he is best remembered for his management career.
McQuade said: “Bertie was a larger than life character. He might have been small but he’d a massive personality.
“He was always the centre of whatever room you were in. He had such experience in the game but a real humorous side too.
“His wit could wither anyone in a second! I remember one game against Falkirk at Brockville where we had an awful first half.
“He sat us all down and went round the room one by one – he had an insult for every single one of us!
“He got to me and said, ‘What the hell are you doing trying to beat four men on your own? You think this is the Denis McQuade Show?’ That was tame. Some of the guys got far stronger!
“But nobody ever took it personally as he was such a lovable character. Bertie had huge shoes to fill when he replaced Davie McParland.
“But he proved his ability by leading us to the title and getting us back into the top division. For him it was a privilege to manage Thistle.
“He had a lot of affection for the club as he had been brought up nearby. It’s terribly sad news he’s passed away.”