With Rob Sawyer
Derek Temple is, quite simply, an Everton treasure. His association with the club as ground staff member, player and supporter, spans seven decades. Scoring the winning goal in the thrilling 1966 FA Cup Final has sometimes overshadowed the Dovecote-born man’s other achievements.
Joining the Blues as a prolific teenage centre-forward in 1954, he debuted for the first team in March 1957 before having his career paused for two years due to National Service, some of it in Kenya. On his return, he had to reacclimatise to English football. Blessed with pace and excellent ball-striking technique, Derek evolved into a wide striker and would have made more than five appearances in the championship-winning 1962/63 campaign, were it not for a serious knee injury. He remained a mainstay in the side throughout the 1960s, keeping John Morrissey out of the side and was rewarded with an England call-up in 1965. In spite of setting up the winning goal against West Germany, Derek was not selected again. Nevertheless, it was his career highlight.
The Toffees’ number 11 cemented his place in football folklore when he arrowed a low shot past Ron Springett on 14 May 1966. However, his time at Everton was drawing to a close, and the following year he was transferred to Preston North End, months after Howard Kendall’s move in the opposite direction. By then, he had made 275 appearances, scoring 83 goals, and after making 76 appearances for Preston, he went on to end his career at Wigan Athletic in 1971.
He has become a peerless unofficial ambassador for Everton FC since hanging up his boots. Always making the effort to attend functions linked to the club, Derek remains a regular Goodison Park match goer and was deservedly given Everton Giant status. He has also been a great friend and supporter of Everton FC Heritage Society. His excellent recall back to the 1950s has been a godsend to many football historians
Last autumn, Derek and his wife Maureen welcomed Rob Sawyer, Mike Royden and Lewis Royden into their home to film an interview about his life and times in the sport. As ever, he was in sparkling form.
Very sadly, Maureen – who we were delighted to have as a guest with Derek at numerous Heritage Society functions – passed away on 29 October. This film is dedicated to her memory.
Rob Sawyer
EFCHS Film Production Team
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In loving memory of Maureen Temple
who passed away shortly after the filming of this interview.
The couple were married for just short of sixty-four years, and we were delighted to have them as guests at many of our functions.The Everton FC Heritage Society sends our love and condolences to Derek, his sons and all the family.
(from Real Footballers’ Wives — the First Ladies of Everton © Becky Tallentire 2004)
