Willie Duff

Who was Willie Duff?

William "Willie" Duff was a Scottish professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper.

Born in Winchburgh, West Lothian, Duff grew up in western Edinburgh, attending Corstorphine Primary School and Boroughmuir High School. He originally played as a left-back while with juvenile side Slateford Athletic but deputised in goal on one occasion when the side's regular custodian didn't turn up and retained the role afterwards. He caught the attention of Easthouses Lily with his performances in his new position and worked as a joiner while playing for them in the East of Scotland League.

In 1952, Hearts' manager Tommy Walker paid £200 for Duff's signature and he moved to Tynecastle as back-up for Jimmy Watters. After two years playing reserve football, Duff earned his chance in the first team in the 1954–55 season. He made his debut in a League Cup tie against Dundee and retained his position in the side as Hearts went on to lift the trophy, their first in 48 years, by defeating Motherwell 4–2 in the final. The following year, he added a Scottish Cup winners medal to his collection as Hearts beat Celtic 3–1 in the final. Celtic's goal was the only one Duff conceded in the entire cup run, encompassing games against Forfar, Stirling Albion, Rangers and Raith Rovers, while his display in the final was "brilliant", in the opinion of teammate and Scotland internationalist Dave Mackay.