Former Blues goalkeeper Peter Goy has died aged 82

Former Southend United goalkeeper, Peter Goy has passed away, aged 82.

The Beverley-born stopper initially joined the Arsenal groundstaff in 1954 before turning professional with the Gunners a year later after a string of impressive performances for the North Londoners junior side.

After completing his National Service, Goy returned to Arsenal, making two senior appearances for Arsenal in First Division matches against Leeds United and Birmingham City and provided competition for the number one jersey alongside the experienced Jack Kelsey and Jim Standen.

In October 1960 he joined Southend United on a free transfer and turned out 118-times for the Roots Hall Stadium outfit during a four-year stint by the seaside, becoming a favourite with the Blues support in the process.
Later in his career, Goy would represent Watford and Huddersfield Town as well as playing in South Africa.

A Shoeburyness resident in retirement, he would serve Catholic United as first-team manager and was an accomplished cricketer for Southed-On-Sea CC. Goy was also a keen bowls player at Thorpe Bay BC and enjoyed playing golf with the Rochford and Thorpe Bay clubs a regular haunt.

Long-time friend and former Blues defender, Frankie Banks told Yellow Sport; “This has come as a shock, Peter was a very good friend.

“He was a very good goalkeeper and was hugely popular at Southend. An absolute gentleman, bubbly, and had a great sense of humour. You couldn’t wish to have met a nicer bloke.

“I last saw him at Bobby Kellard’s funeral and thought he looked fit and well. My condolences go to his family. He will be hugely missed.”