Trevor Peake (151 votes) and Gareth McAuley (145 votes)
I think there was only ever going to be one winner, it was just a matter of who would partner Trevor Peake. I’m afraid I’m too young to give you a run down of his credentials myself, but I did see him for both Coventry and Luton Town and I know he was a fine defender well into his thirties. Indeed, he played in the FA Cup against Lincoln in 1976, won it with Coventry in 1987 and was still performing at the highest level with Luton against Chelsea in the 1994 semi final.
What I do know is he was a cut above the normal defender you see at City and had he not existed in a time of outstanding centre backs he could have played for England. Remember, he played at the same time as Steve Bruce, another great player who didn’t get an England cap.
Nobody who saw Peake play would have wasted both of their votes without acknowledging his contribution and that is reflected in the winning number.
His partner might be a surprise to some, but perhaps not. Gareth McAuley is a great defender, even now. He’s one of the few Imps to represent his country in a major international tournament, one of the few to play consistent top flight football throughout the latter part of his career and, like many of Keith’s imports, he was often used as a make shift centre forward, even making his debut up front!
From humble beginnings a great player flourished and as Keith’s team slowly broke up, it became evident that our big Irish centre half was on his way. He barely broke 80 appearances for City, but after establishing himself as a first team regular he grew in strength and stature. It was always clear he was going on to better things, whether rising majestically to win us a play off semi final against Macclesfield or scrambling back with a match saving tackle to ensure we remained in contention the season after.
He’s clearly made an impression on you lot who have voted for him as the Stacey West XI partner of Trevor Peake. Congratulations to both players, keep an eye out for the next vote soon.
Next page has the CURRENT SW XI on it
Peake for my late Dad, McAuley for me – perfect pairing. Happy with that!
West ‘am
Indeed