Centre-forward Pettican played for Newbury in the season 1898/9. After playing for Berks and Bucks against Oxfordshire, Surrey and Middlesex he attracted the attention of the Swindon officials, and played for Swindon in 1900/01 in the 1st. div.of the Southern League.

Joined the London & SW Railway as a metal moulder on 14 April 1903.

Married Kate Ann Lewis in 1903 in Newport, Gwent, where his first son, William, was born in nearby Rogerson soon after.

Rogerstones existence until 1906 saw many famous faces pull on the Rogerstone jersey. Around 1902 saw Joshua Pettican, a centre forward who hailed from Berkshire and played in the first Division of the Southern League for Swindon signed for Rogerstone. He moved to Barry for one season and then played two seasons at Rogerstone. The press carried a report saying that Rogerstone had signed the 'Gwyn Nicholls' of soccer.

Discharged from the L&SW railway on 21 December 1906, joining Wimbledon a few days later, although he was reported as still being chased by Swindon Town. He left for Summerstown the following season.

Joe Pettican of Newbury came to Victoria in 1908 and played Football for Ebbw Vale (same player).

Probate on 08 May 1951 leaving £720/11/9 to eldest son William Edward Pettican.