Ray Evans 1933-2009

Raymond Evans was born in Preston on 21 June 1933 and signed a professional contract in May 1951. He was a left sided forward and made his debut for PNE in a 3-2 defeat at Arsenal on 3 October 1953. He made two more appearances in the 1953/54 season and his third appearance saw him score his first goal and the winner in a 2-1 home victory against Sheffield United on 21 November 1953. His second and final goal for the Lilywhites was scored in the following season against Leicester in a 4-2 home defeat on 8 April.

The majority of his 33 league appearances came in the 1956/57 season. His last appearance came on 30 March 1957 in a 2-0 defeat at Aston Villa.

After recovering from a broken leg Ray joined Third Division Bournemouth in June 1959 along with reserve keeper Mike Lynn for £4,000.

The stayed for two seasons scoring 9 goals in 36 appearances, before joining non-league Morecambe.

On retirement from the game Ray set up his own roofing business.

League Career

1953/54 - Preston NE - 3 apps; 1 goal

1954/55 - Preston NE - 2 apps; 1 goal

1955/56 - Preston NE - 9 apps; 0 goals

1956/57 - Preston NE - 19 apps; 0 goals

1957/58 - Preston NE - 0 apps; 0 goals

1958/59 - Preston NE - 0 apps; 0 goals

1959/60 - Bournemouth - 24 apps; 7 goals

1960/61 - Bournemouth - 12 apps; 2 goals

Ray passed away in hospital after a short illness and we send our condolences to his family and friends.