William (Billy) McOwen

William (Billy) McOwen was born in Blackburn in 1871. A goalkeeper, he played for Blackburn Olympic before joining Blackburn Rovers in 1888.

Tom Mitchell was particularly concerned with the position of goalkeeper. Herbie Arthur, at 36, was coming to the end of his playing days. Mitchell initially signed Ted Doig from Arbroath. However, he found it difficult to settle and after playing only one game he returned to Scotland.

Billy McOwen, who was only seventeen years old, played 14 games that season. Eventually, John Horne took over as Blackburn's goalkeeper. The defence did not perform well that season letting in 45 goals in 22 games.

McOwen joined local rivals Darwen the following season. He played 17 games for the club before joining Liverpool in 1893. However, after 23 games he moved onto Blackpool. He also played for Nelson before retiring from the game.

William McOwen died in 1950.