Dawson is mostly remembered for one match, the 1914 FA Cup Final, even though he did not play in it. The day before the game, he told manager John Haworth that he didn't think he would make it to the end of the game. As there were no substitutes in those days, that would have left Burnley without a goalkeeper. Burnley went on to win the FA Cup and, as a sign of respect of his unselfishness, Dawson was given a winner's medal along with the rest of the team.