O'Keefe, Vince

Birth Date

2nd April 1957

Birthplace

Birmingham

Occupation

Goalkeeper

Biographical Text

Goalkeeper Vince O’Keefe, playing in two separate spells, started and finished his Football League career with Exeter City. Originally signing from AP Leamington he moved on from St James’ Park to play for Torquay United, Blackburn Rovers and Wrexham before returning to make two final appearances for the Grecians as cover for Kevin Miller. 

Starting with Paget Rangers, Vince signed professional forms for Birmingham City in July 1975 and moved on to Walsall twelve months later without making a first-team appearance for either club. He then signed for AP Leamington before being spotted by Exeter City.

Joining the Grecians in June 1978, Vince made his debut in a goalless draw against Walsall on the opening day of the 1978/99 and made 33 consecutive appearances before giving way to Ian Main. Returning to the side at the start of the next campaign, Vince appeared in the first twenty games of the season before once again losing his place to Main. Playing his final game against Oxford in November 1979, Vince joined Torquay United in February 1980 following the sale of the club’s first-choice keeper. 

Quickly establishing himself at Plainmoor, Vince featured in 108 league matches and attracted the attention of bigger clubs before eventually moving to Blackburn Rovers in August 1982 for whom he was to make 68 appearances. Subsequently, following loan stints with Bury and Blackpool (on two occasions), Vince joined Wrexham in July 1989 where he was to make a further 83 league appearances. 

Released at the end of 1991-92 season Vince, now also working for the Professional Footballers Association and in the process of becoming a financial adviser, received a surprise call from Exeter City in August 1992 due to the unavailability of Kevin Miller. Appearing in the opening game of the season against Rotherham United on 15 August 1992, Vince also took Kevin Miller’s place for the home match against Blackpool on 30 January 1993.

He then became a goalkeeping coach at Blackburn Rovers before concentrating on his work in the financial sector and working as a football agent. Vince's son Josh was a professional at Blackburn before playing in the Football League for Walsall and Lincoln City whilst also representing the Republic of Ireland at under-21 level.  

Appearances

55

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