Ian Cowan, affectionately nicknamed “Cowboy,” was a footballer who thrilled fans with his dazzling wing play. He had a career spanning several clubs, making a lasting impact, particularly at Partick Thistle.

PART ONE

Ian Cowan started with his hometown club Falkirk in 1959, a club where he developed his skills as a promising young winger. However, it was his move to Partick Thistle at the beginning of the1961-62 campaign that truly propelled him into the spotlight. Willie Thornton, a former striker with Rangers and Scotland, had taken over the managerial reins at Firhill two years earlier and the club were brimming with ambition.

At Firhill, Cowan quickly established himself as a fan favourite. His ability to take on defenders, deliver pinpoint crosses, and score from wide positions made him an integral part of the team. He played a vital role in Thistle’s incredible run of 10 consecutive First Division wins in the 1962/63 season, helping the club secure a remarkable third-place finish in the table—a feat that remains one of their best top-flight performances.

One of the most talked-about moments in Cowan’s career came during a Glasgow Cup tie against Celtic at Firhill in the 1963/64 campaign. During the heated contest, the Thistle player found himself in an altercation with Celtic’s legendary right winger Jimmy Johnstone. The confrontation led to referee Tiny Wharton giving both players their marching orders, a moment that became part of Scottish football folklore.

During his three-year stay with Partick Thistle, Ian Cowan accumulated 97 first-team appearances and found the back of the net on 18 occasions. His contributions were not just about goals—his presence on the right wing provided The Jags with attacking impetus and a constant threat to opposition defences.

PART TWO

Following his stint at Firhill, Cowan joined St Johnstone, where he continued to showcase his wing wizardry. His time at Muirton Park coincided with a period of steady growth for the Perth club, as they sought to establish themselves as a force in Scottish football. Accordingly, his experience and creativity became invaluable assets, as he linked up effectively with his fellow forwards, ensuring that The Saints remained a dangerous proposition for any opponent. He later returned to Falkirk before embarking on a series of moves that took him across a string of clubs, including Dunfermline Athletic, Southend United, and K.V. Oostende.

Ian Cowan was a traditional winger in every sense of the word. Blessed with quick feet, exceptional dribbling skills, and a fearless approach to taking on opposing defenders, the flying flankman excited fans and tormented full-backs week in and week out. His ability to deliver quality crosses made him a key supplier for strikers, while his knack for cutting inside and scoring goals added another dimension to his game.

His time at Partick Thistle remains the highlight of his career, with many Firhill supporters remembering him as one of the club’s finest wingers. The excitement he generated on the pitch and his contributions to one of Thistle’s best-ever league campaigns cemented his place in the history of the club.

For Partick Thistle fans, “Cowboy” will always be remembered as a dynamic and thrilling presence on the right wing, a player who played a key role in one of the club’s golden periods. His contributions to Scottish football, across various clubs, ensure that his name remains part of the sport’s rich tapestry.