Billy Mercer

William (Billy) Mercer was born in Preston on 14th March, 1896. He played local football before the First World War. On his return to civilian life he joined Preston North End.

Mercer, a wing-half, was a regular in the Preston team for the next five seasons. However, despite the goals of Tommy Roberts, it was a struggling team.

Preston North End did very well in the FA Cup in 1921. Led by veteran defender, Joseph McCall, the club defeated Newcastle United (3-1), Barnsley (3-0), Arsenal (2-1) and Tottenham Hotspur (2-1) on the way to the final against Huddersfield Town. Preston lost to the only goal of the game, a penalty conceded by Tommy Hamilton. It was awarded after Hamilton tripped Huddersfield's outside-left Billy Smith. Hamilton admitted the offence but claimed it was outside the penalty area.

During Mercer's time at the club, Preston finished 19th (1919-20), 16th (1920-21), 16th (1921-22), 16th (1922-23), 18th (1923-24) and 21st (1924-25).

After they were relegated in 1925, Mercer joined Blackpool. However, he did not stay long at his new club and moved on to non-league football at Lancaster Town. Later he played for Boston Town.

William Mercer died in 1975.