Walter Evans

Walter Gwynne Evans (1867 – 10 May 1897) was a Welsh footballer who played as a full-back for English clubs, Bootle and Aston Villa in the 1890s. With Villa, he was on the losing side in the 1892 FA Cup Final. He made three appearances for Wales against England, each of which was a defeat.

Football career Evans was born in Builth, Brecknockshire, the son of the local butcher. As a youth, he excelled at many sports including cricket, rugby and soccer.

In July 1890, Evans joined Aston Villa where he became a regular member of the team. He made a total of 23 appearances in 1891–92 and 28 in the following year helping Villa to reach the FA Cup Final against local rivals, West Bromwich Albion. Despite being favourites going into the game, Villa lost 3–0 with Albion's goals coming from Geddes, Nicholls and Reynolds.

Evans made two further international appearances, both against England, with a 4–1 defeat in March 1891 and a 2–0 defeat a year later. In his 1891 assessment by the Football Association of Wales, Evans was described as "a very good back, tackles unflinchingly and a safe kick; (has) done himself credit".

Date Venue Opponent Result Goals Competition 18 March 1890 Racecourse Ground, Wrexham 1–3 0British Home Championship 7 March 1891 Newcastle Road, Sunderland 1–4 0 British Home Championship 5 March 1892 Racecourse Ground, Wrexham 0–2 0 British Home Championship WinDrawLoss

Non-football career On returning to Builth, Evans became landlord of the Lamb Inn. This public house became the headquarters and changing rooms of the Builth Football Club.

In May 1897, Evans caught a chill while attending a funeral and died within a few days. His death was described as "a calamity for the Builth club".

Honours Aston Villa FA Cup finalists: 1892