BELFAST TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 19 2011 TUESDAY APRIL 19 2011 BELFAST TELEGRAPH 56 SPORT SPORT 57

Toulon As the Blues celebrate 125 years, we mark the milestone Ulster suspend by starting a countdown of their finest-ever footballers ‘fighter’ Henson DESSIE GORMAN BILLY MCCLEERY top the 25251992-1997 23231927-1935 GAVIN Henson has been sus- pended for a week by his club DESSIE Gorman broke the ASK any Linfield old-timer Toulon, apparently for fighting mould at Linfield. the club’s greatest half- with at least one team-mate When Trevor Anderson back line and they’ll recite after a club game at the week- signed the forward from the names of Billy Mc- end. Shelbourne in the winter Cleery, Jack Jones and Some close observers of rugby of 1992, Gorman (main Tommy Sloan — the middle league affairs on the Mediterranean be- picture) became the first of the Ireland team which lieve he is about to be sacked. high profile Roman beat Wales 7-0 in 1930, Joe Henson (below) started the Catholic in decades to Bambrick scoring six. game on Saturday and immedi- join the Blues. Multi-talented Mc- ately after the final whistle he It was a stunning transfer Cleery, developed his could be heard extolling the 25 in many ways because Anderson football at Cliftonville virtues of rugby life in Toulon. 25 had never seen Gorman play. and Queen’s Island, winning an Irish Cup medal greatest While most of Mourad Boud- No-one need have worried as Gor- with them, the first of six, the others coming, of of big jellal's 'trophy' signings — Jonny man became an instant hit with course, at Linfield. Wilkinson and Joe van Niekerk, the Linfield faithful, who nick- Retiring in 1935, he became boss of Linfield to name but two; George Smith Linfield named him “the Dundalk in 1939, but the Second World War prevented and Juan Fernandez Lobbe to Hawk”. him continuing for long. Instead he focused in name a couple With his all later years on cricket, playing in 14 Irish Senior more — have action Cup finals with Woodvale between 1929-52. proved sound He represented the Irish League seven times, payouts invest- players won 10 senior IFA caps and his proudest moment ments, few was managing the Irish League side which de- considered style and ability to feated the English League 5-2 at Windsor in 1956. the recruit- score crucial goals, Gorman became SPORTS administrators rarely set BY RUAIDHRI O’CONNOR ment of Hen- of all time the terrace darling of Windsor Park, helping the the heart a flutter with their pub- son to be Blues to back-to-back titles. RUGBY lic utterings, but New Zealand anything other His first touch in a Linfield shirt gave an indication of JOHN PARKE rugby chief Steve Tew last night White Cloud as he looks to build than risky. LINFIELD are celebrating their 125th anniver- the excitement to come — it was an overhead kick to broke with the norm with his crit- on his squad's improvement this All the same, the fact that he sary this year. To mark the occasion, the Belfast keep a ball in play. He was different to any player the 2222 1954-1963 icism of the IRFU and Ulster season that saw them reach the was picked for a game as impor- Telegraph decided it would be a worthwhile and Blues had at the time and in many ways changed the way Rugby that exposed the extent of Heineken Cup quarter-finals for tant last weekend's suggested thought provoking exercise to attempt to name the the played. JOHN Parke was a the level of ambition at Ravenhill. the first time in 12 years. things were going swimmingly. 25 greatest Linfield players of all time. Dessie's success paved the way for other Catholics to brilliant full-back The World Cup may be some- It means Ulster can be counted “I must be doing something Given how many top class footballers Linfield join Linfield. He wasn't just popular on the pitch — he who joined Linfield thing the rugby-mad nation are as perhaps the biggest spenders in right if I'm starting for a team have had over the past 125 years, it was not an easy was a star off it dealing with a potentially tricky situa- from Cliftonville in looking forward to, but the post- Irish rugby and while they are like this,” he said. task. tion during troubled times with his easy going and hu- 1954, moving to tournament exodus is vexing the stopping well short of the report- “That was by a long way the A judging panel was required — people with ex- morous nature. Scotland with Hibs minds of those running the game ed £1.1m that Toulon are dan- biggest club match I've ever perience, knowledge, insight and a great passion A hugely influential figure in Linfield's modern his- in 1963. in the sport’s spiritual home. gling in front of Sonny Bill played in.” for the game — to come up with the top 25. tory — he has had a trophy named after him, the He made only 23 Already the big French clubs Williams, the £350,000 a season In the black: John Afoa has landed a great contract with Ulster, but it hasn’t pleased the NZFU Respected Linfield chairman Jim Kerr, the Irish Dessie Gorman Cup, which the Linfield and Dundalk appearances for have been snapping up All Blacks that John Afoa and Jared Payne League’s and Linfield’s most successful manager youth teams contest. Hibs before Sunder- like they are going out of fashion are believed to be receiving rep- the Irish are out-pricing us.” ney and Sexton are believed to recruits, but will come in well Roy Coyle, lifelong Blueman Jonathan Lamont, leg- land spotted him and although Tew claims the IRFU resents a huge Ulster investment. IRFU chief Philip Browne in- have turned down offers in the re- above what top Irish stars Stephen endary football writer Malcolm Brodie all agreed and within a short were complaining about the Top It all means that “The disappointing thing is that sisted the union would not break gion of £438,000 from Top 14 Ferris — a Lion — and Rory Best, to debate and determine the list with Belfast Tele- period had obtained his signature. He became a 14 pricing them out of the market, if the numbers we are led to be- their own wage structure to keep clubs to stay on less money. who has captained his country, are graph Sports Editor Steven Beacom chairing the Roker Park favourite, playing in 85 matches over it seems they are getting in on Ulster can be lieve that have been put on the out of contract players at home The top Irish internationals earning as part their centralised panel. four years. the act themselves with Ulster counted as the table by Ulster, and therefore the and Ireland and Leinster stars who stayed are, at best, on a par contracts with the union. It was difficult limiting the all-time greats list 2424 Then he opted to enter European football, leading the way. Irish Rugby Union, are accurate, like Rob Kearney, Jonny Sexton, with Ulster's new signings, al- The New Zealand duo are hard- to just 25, so to put them in order was extremely spending three seasons with the Belgian club KV Already paying top dollar for biggest spenders it is a shame,” said Tew. Sean O'Brien and Jamie Heaslip though domestic players can avail ly household names, but they will tough. DAVY WALSH Mechelen before retiring and returning to live in Springboks Johann Muller, Pedrie “The Irish are certainly one resisted the lure of big money of generous tax breaks. automatically go into the top Finally, after much discussion and scratching of 1943-1946 Northern Ireland where he had a spell in manage- Wannenburg and Ruan Pienaar, in Irish rugby union we have talked to previ- moves to France earlier this year. Afoa and Payne's reported bracket of earners in Irish rugby heads, we got there. ment. He was capped by Northern Ireland 14 times Brian McLaughlin's eye has turned ously about the way the French Although the union do not dis- salaries will put them at least on when they meet up with their The panel were asked to consider the ability of WATERFORD- — the first in a 2-1 win over Scotland in 1963 — an towards the Land of the Long system corrupts the market. Now close details of their wages, Kear- a par with the top South African new team-mates next season. the players, their contribution to the club, their re- born Davy Walsh, immaculate performance in keeping with how he lationship with the fans, star quality and honours now 88, was a played for the Blues. collected at Windsor Park. dual internation- Starting today and continuing all week we re- al — he played veal the 25 men voted as Linfield’s greatest ever for the Irish FA Bradley philosophical as problems pile up for Antrim players. The number one will be named in Satur- and FAI interna- PHIL SCOTT day’s newspaper. tional sides — 1958-1962/1963-1973 and made a deci- 2121 WITH less than a month to go be- In addition, dynamic wing- problems, Antrim manager Liam onship. If referees don’t start to let The Red Hands were denied sive impact with fore the start of the Ulster senior GAA back Tony Scullion is still recov- Bradley remains philosophical. the game flow a bit then this is two blatant late frees that, had Tomorrow: we continue the Blues from PHIL Scott, a classi- football championship there ering from the serious leg injury He said: “Obviously we would going to affect crowds. they been awarded, might well 1943-46. cal inside forward, could hardly be a more contrast- BY JOHN CAMPBELL he sustained at work. have anxieties about some players “People don’t want to pay good have proved their passport into the countdown from That was an possessing skill, vi- ing build-up for the two teams But on a more encouraging at this point in time but we will money to watch the sort of per- Sunday’s divisional final. era of many sion and an enor- who will launch the series. Three but are burdened by major note Kevin Niblock and skipper see how things go. nickety stuff we have been wit- But Harte is today much more numbers 20 to 16 quality players mous work-rate, he Donegal will host Antrim in injury worries. Kevin O’Boyle expect to be fit for “Every manager wants to be nessing lately. Frees are being concerned with the injuries that at Windsor was snapped up by Ballybofey on May 15 but while C J McGourty is due to under- the MacCumhaill Park showdown able to put his best team out at blown far too often.” experienced duo Joe McMahon Park. Linfield from Dis- Jim McGuinness’s side will fur- go surgery for his hip problem ten while Kevin McGourty will re- this time of the year and I am no Bradley’s views have been en- and Enda McGinley picked up in Solid and dapper, Walsh had spells with Limerick tillery ther hone their competitive edge days before the game and will be turn from suspension to augment exception to that. We had big in- dorsed by other managers al- club matches at the weekend. and Shelbourne before being signed by the Blues. He left because he by taking on Laois in next Sun- a non-starter while key defender the Antrim attack. It is also ex- jury problems during the clos- though Tyrone’s Mickey Harte His Armagh counterpart Paddy Nobody was more deadly in front of goal than couldn’t get regular day’s Allianz Football League Di- Andrew McClean and midfield pected that Aaron Douglas will be ing stages of the league. still takes issue with the fact that O’Rourke will welcome Ciaran Walsh, who later established himself at West football, but re- vision Two final at Croke Park, ace Michael McCann are both available again after serving a “I would be hoping that the frees were NOT blown when his McKeever back for the game Bromich Albion, Aston Villa and Worcester City. He turned to develop a Antrim are not only coming to rated at no more than 50/50 to one-month ban. fans will be treated to good qual- side faced Laois in their conclud- against Down for which he now was a class act. glittering career. terms with relegation to Division play any part in the contest. Yet although confronted by ity football during the champi- ing league game. has enhanced midfield options. Walsh, still residing in England, said: “Linfield He played in 15 European matches, scoring five was a great club — that was the happiest period goals, and was a member of the squad that met of my career. CSKA Sofia in the quarter-final — a remarkable “I was made totally welcome, part of the achievement for a part-time professional. club. family and never experienced problems on any Phil, a Shankill Road man, got two goals in the m, issue.” 1970 Irish Cup win against Ballymena United and en Beaco anel Stev le hit 220 goals in 400 Linfield matches, a commend- udging p ,Roy Coy rt views:J lm Brodie k Expe nt,Malco tel to pic able ratio for a player who would have graced an Lamo venue ho E WORDS: MALCOLM BRODIE AND SDFGSDFGS- Jonath he Park A PRESSEY any side on the highest cross-channel level. Kerr at t DGSDGSDGSDG and Jim layers Words: Steven Beacom and Malcolm Brodie top 25 p Linfield’s BELFAST TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 2011 WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 2011 BELFAST TELEGRAPH 58 SPORT SPORT 59 Whittaker: As the Blues celebrate 125 years we mark the anniversary I can cope by continuing our countdown of their finest-ever footballers LennyLenny isis nono with the

pressure of BILLY SIMPSON 2020 1818 1947-1950 penalties DICK Billy Simpson could be de- quitterquitter butbut Dundee Utd 0 KEITH scribed as one of the most accomplished Linfield strik- 1950-1956 ers, who was transferred in Rangers 4 1950 to Rangers for For style and panache, it £11,500, spending nine BY LISA GRAY would be difficult to find years at Ibrox, making an equal of the late Dick 239 appearances, scor- SCOTTISH PREMIER LEAGUE Keith, who made over 400 ing 163 goals. STEVEN Whittaker insists he appearances for the With Linfield, the this time would have no problem stepping Blues, climaxed by his club he had followed this time up for more pressure spot-kicks in 25 1956 selection as Ulster as a schoolboy, Billy, one future — despite failing to claim 25 Footballer of the Year. of nature’s gentlemen, a hat-trick from the penalty spot GREATEST Newcastle United, who won two Irish League and against Dundee United. eventually appointed him cap- two Irish Cup medals. Fa- But the defender admits he may tain, got an £8,000 bargain – the mously he scored four not get the chance with the rest of start of a wonderful St James’ Park part- goals in a 6-0 win over his Rangers team-mates now LINFIELD nership with fellow Ulsterman Alfie Glentoran in the 1949/50 queuing up to be the club's penal- McMichael. He won 23 caps, including those in Gold Cup. it goes ty taker following last night's dra- the 1958 Sweden World Cup series. Simpson won three titles and one Cup gong at Rangers, who it goes matic Clydesdale Bank Premier Dick, 33, was killed in February 1967 when inducted him into their Hall of Fame. League clash at Tannadice. PLAYERS he fractured his skull working in a builders’ He left Ibrox in 1959 and spent the remaining years before re- United were reduced to eight merchant at tirement with Stirling Albion, Partick Thistle and Oxford United. men when Mihael Kovacevic, Sean Bournemouth. He He made 12 Northern Ireland appearances, travelled with the Dillon and Morgaro Gomis were had been disman- 1958 squad to Sweden, picked up an injury in training and never all shown straight red cards after OF ALL tling an automatic figured in a game. That was his major regret of an illustrious ca- conceding penalties, two of which garage door reer. were converted by Whittaker be- when struck on fore he missed the third. the head by a beyondbeyond Nikica Jelavic and Kyle Laffer- TIME spring-loaded ty were also on the scoresheet as cantilever. Rangers stretched their lead at LINFIELD are celebrating their 125th anniver- Keith and GEORGE DUNLOP the summit to four points, before sary this year. To mark the occasion, the Belfast McMichael ranked Celtic travel to Kilmarnock Telegraph decided it would be a worthwhile and as Northern 1717 1977-1990 tonight. thought-provoking exercise to attempt to name Ireland’s finest His miss cost Whittaker his first the 25 greatest Linfield players of all time. full-backs since George Dunlop (main picture) was a goalkeeper supreme, winning ever hat-trick but he says he would It was not an easy task for the judging panel the era of Bertie four full caps between 1984-89, four at schoolboy level and rep- be happy to step up again, even if consisting of respected Linfield chairman Jim Fulton (Belfast resenting the Irish League on 14 occasions. himhim Rangers are handed a spot-kick in Kerr, the Irish League’s and Linfield’s most suc- Celtic). With the Blues he collected nine Irish League Championship this weekend's crucial Old firm cessful manager Roy Coyle, lifelong Blueman medals, two Irish Cups and virtually every honour in the domes- derby. Jonathan Lamont, legendary football writer Mal- tic game. COMMENT He said: “There is a queue and colm Brodie and Belfast Telegraph Sports Editor While a part-time footballer, he worked as a riveter at Shorts I had to fight off about four peo- Steven Beacom, who chaired the panel. and signed as a teenager for Manchester City. His only involve- ple to hit the third one. I've hit The panel were asked to consider the ability of ALFIE ment was as an unused sub in the 1972 UEFA Cup tie against Va- pressure penalties this season and the players, their contribution to the club, their MCMICHAEL lencia. OMBS and bullets were It would go against every Neil I would be happy to hit one again. relationship with the fans, star quality and hon- 19 19 Dunlop, a member of the World Cup, Spain ’82 squad, played never far away, grow- JIM GRACEY on how Celtic boss will Lennon grain to back down; to “At the moment I'm the taker ours collected at Windsor Park. 1945-1949 more than 500 games for Linfield and was among the top goal- ing up in Lurgan in the walk away from his dream job, but, now that I've missed one, Yesterday we started with numbers 25 to 21 keepers in Ireland during the 1980s. He later became Bangor de- worst of times. How respond to latest threat now the danger at the behest of shadowy cow- someone else might step up. But and continue today and all week until Saturday Captain of Ireland. Nobody was more velopment officer and manager. Bironic they never af- ards not fit to lace his boots and I'm still happy to hit them. when we will reveal Linfield’s number one. proud of that title than Alfie McMichael, An ebullient personality, he could be the life and soul of fected the young, unknown Neil who most certainly would not “I've always mixed my penalties Already the list has been the subject of huge who became a Linfield player in 1945 four the party. A wonderful tourist. Lennon who carried on playing level and risk to others has risen tackle him face to face. up. When I first got on them, I hit debate on the Irish League Forums website. years before his transfer with inside-for- football on the streets of the na- pression, upheaval in his private even that is to ignore the strain heads of his ilk tend to do, with What Lenny will look for is a couple hard and then I placed a Below is a sample of thoughts from the fans. ward George Hannah to Newcastle Unit- tionalist Taghnevan estate while life, and now this. placed on Lennon and his fami- no thought for himself. not so much a guarantee of his couple. I think it was a case of too ed for £30,000. mayhem often reigned around. Bullets in the post, while ly — then it is time to think But these are unseen enemies own safety but that those closest many in the one game! From my era, Peter Rafferty, Geordie Dunlop, He linked up with a number of super- Now, at the peak of his fame frightening and intimidating, again. he cannot confront. to him are not also at risk. “The first two I placed and then Noel Bailie, Glenn Ferguson and Martin Mc- stars there – Jackie Milburn, Joe Harvey, and success, the terror and trib- pose no physical threat. But a Those responsible require a And when the safety of family His decisions and future as I tried to go for power and just got Gaughey should all be nailed on for the list. Tommy Walker, Frank Brennan, Ernie SAMMY PAVIS alism he thought he'd risen parcel bomb capable of causing response from the law in pro- and friends is also endangered, Celtic manager hinge on the an- it wrong. I've never scored a hat- Dessie Gorman is a worthy inclusion. DAVID Taylor, George Robledo and Bobby 1965-1970 above and left behind have re- injury? portion to their actions . . . they he will consider that a different swers. All those who know and trick so that would have been my Mitchell. He made 40 appearances for 1616 turned to haunt him. That's taken the vicious and are no different to the fanatics matter entirely. respect Lenny will vouch that he first.” In my 20 years watching Irish League, I would Northern Ireland and was a member of I've known Neil since he was insidious campaign against his posing a threat in the name of a isn't the type to be cowed. Whittaker admits he has never say Bailie and Ferguson spring to mind, al- the 1953 seven weeks coast-to-coast USA Goalscorers have always a raw, 16-year-old kid, trying to person to a level never before different religion. They need to ‘What Lenny will They will hope he carries on, been involved in a match before ways feared Tony Gorman and his free kicks, and Canadian tour party. Was described been legends at Windsor make his way as an apprentice seen in British football. be taken as seriously and simi- not least to see his managerial where three players were sent although clearly Gorman is not going to be in by Sir Stanley Matthews as “one of the Park – none more so than at a much less cash-rich and It has moved from downright lar security resources applied to look for is not so ambitions fulfilled, and so that packing for conceding three penal- the top 25. I always thought Tommy McDonald best backs I have ever played against”. He Sammy Pavis. He started his ca- fashionable Manchester City nasty and unpleasant to sinister, tracking them down. those who resort to threats and ties but he believes referee Willie was a steady player, Haylock is another top won an FA Cup Winners medal with New- reer with Distillery, joined Scun- than they are now. the latest twist amounting to You can go to jail for as much much a guarantee terror do not win, a mindset of Collum had no choice but to reach player, just a few names to throw into the mix. castle and then thorpe as an apprentice, came back to Crusaders And he has always been a terrorism. as joking about a bomb at an of his own safety, which we are all too familiar. for his red card. EAST BELFAST DANNY Glentoran supporter missed a repeat a and then had three seasons at the Oval, scoring fighter, overcoming adversity If there was ambivalance be- airport... a real one in the post It’s a convenient attitude to He said: “I don't think I've year later because 49 goals in one of them, a then record for a every step of the way to become fore, a tendency to regard the demands likewise. but that those accept when you are not in the played in a game like that, not Look forward to following this in the Tele- of knee trouble. winger. a top player and now manager. hounding of Lennon as a mani- But what of Neil Lennon? Can firing line. When your nearest that I can think of off the top of my graph, although I suspect, like all these lists, From the moment Glentoran manager Gibby Mackenzie asked Doubts over his ability to festion of the prejudices of the he handle it? How will he han- closest to him are and dearest become the collater- head. it will be massively biased towards post-war he broke into the Lin- him to move to Bangor but he declined and in even carve a career in profes- worst types steeped in historic dle it? The Lenny I know would al damage, no job is worth the “ Obviously it's difficult for them players, simply because nobody's memory field senior squad it stepped Linfield where he became a legend. sional football; a crippling back Old Firm bigotry, an exercise in never shirk from a fight or a not also at risk’ candle. to take but a lot of the challenges goes back further than that. was apparent he He scored 63 goals in the 1965-66 season and injury that threatened to wreck publicity-seeking from which no threat to his own person. He'd That is what the Neil Lennon were last men and the rules now MOORETWIN, Crusaders fan would become top- around 180 during his spell at “The Park” where his dreams, dark bouts of de- real harm would come — and meet it head-on, as fiery red- I know is now weighing up. are that you need to go.” drawer. His positional he was nicknamed “Sammy Save Us” and I don’t think you have to have seen a player in sense was unsur- “Sammy Snatchit”. Pavis, from an East Belfast the flesh to appreciate his contribution to the passed. His leader- footballing family, was a predator in the box. In club's history, Joe Bambrick being a perfect ship qualities, too. fact, throughout his career he hit more than 400 example. GAZZA He was a class goals and in 1968 came fourth to Eusebio (Benfi- act for the ca) in the European Golden Boot Award to the top marksman. A former Northern Tomorrow: We continue Blues. Ireland Professional Footballers Association chairman, he rarely attends games these days. His interest is snooker in which he became a champion. He was an the countdown from asset to any team. How some Irish League managers today could use a player with his goal-getting ability. numbers 15 to 11 Words: Steven Beacom and Malcolm Brodie BELFAST TELEGRAPH THURSDAY APRIL 21 2011 THURSDAY APRIL 21 2011 BELFAST TELEGRAPH 72 SPORT SPORT 73

football Continuing our countdown of the Blues’ finest-ever footballers in brief Lowry is Ireland bidding to DAVY COCHRANE ISAAC ANDREWS 1942-1945 1960-1972 repay Toon loyalty 1111 1515 STEPHEN Ireland is desperate to repay Newcastle's faith after Who says size matters? Davy If anybody ever epitomised the tradi- belatedly making his debut. Cochrane, arguably one of North- tional fighting spirit and qualities The 24-year-old Irishman was ern Ireland’s finest outside rights, which is part of the Linfield heritage, signed on loan in January but was only five foot four – so small it was Isaac Andrews, another mem- painting knee and thigh injuries ruled that on arrival at Leeds United in ber of the 1962 seven-trophy team. him out of action. 1937 they thought he was an Irish This was the tribute Northern Ire- On Tuesday night he finally jockey. land manager Peter Doherty paid got his chance in a black and He made 33 pre-War appear- him: “He is my type of play- white shirt 69 minutes into the ances for Leeds, returned home in er. He has speed, club's hard-fought 0-0 draw 1939, and joined Portadown who guile, positional with Manchester United — his 25 opted out of football in May sense and tackles a picture first game since December after 25 1941, so he moved to Shamrock strongly.” an unhappy spell at Aston Villa. GREATEST Rovers. He was once Ireland said: ”The loyalty A year later, Davy Emerson labelled the Billy (Newcastle) have shown me, I coaxed him back to Linfield with Bremner of Ul- am going to repay that as much whom he remained until 1945 — ster and Wilbur as I can. It's been really frustrat- LINFIELD in one season scoring 45 goals. Cush Mark II. ing, but it's all behind me now, His performances for the Blues Another Shankill tained, joined Distillery, but then of glory thank God, and it's finally here. are embedded in the club’s folk- Road man, his made his debut as a 17-year-old ama- “It's finally come around that lore — two wartime League ti- workrate was phe- teur with Linfield — the start of a I can play and I just want to fin- PLAYERS tles, two Irish Cup Final nomenal — an attrib- glorious era. ish the season strongly and try appearances and goals galore. ute noticed when he He had gained six Northern Ireland to benefit the team in whatever Capped 12 times — the first as went on trial as a amateur caps, three Irish League and way I can.” an 18-year-old in 1938 — he re- teenager at was unfortunate not to get senior OF ALL joined Leeds and was on their Manchester recognition. Mick’s only concern books until the 1950-51 season United. He Isaac, born in 1943, was a role at Blues when, to the surprise of many, was not model for the Linfield type of player is avoiding drop he quit football aged 35 to re- who battled to the end, in every PHILIP Lowry proved again on BY GRAHAM LUNEY WOLVES manager Mick Mc- concentrate on a business. match. A true Blue. Tuesday night that he can be the Carthy has urged his players to TIME CARLING PREMIERSHIP “I wanted to finish at man for the big occasion at Lin- focus on the football and not the the top,” he explained. field but the modest midfielder is In association with sub-plots for Saturday's clash LINFIELD are celebrating their 125th anniver- He died in 2000 at more interested in showering with Fulham. sary this year. To mark the occasion, the Belfast his home in Leeds. praise on his team-mates. Wolves' 2-1 defeat at Craven Telegraph decided it would be a worthwhile and Lowry, who also scored in last Cottage in September was over- thought-provoking exercise to attempt to name season’s JJB Sports Irish Cup final champions Linfield got going and shadowed when Bobby Zamora the 25 greatest Linfield players of all time. victory over Portadown, produced Lowry should collect his second sustained a broken leg following It was not an easy task for the judging panel two headed goals in a 3-2 win championship winner’s medal in a challenge from Karl Henry. consisting of respected Linfield chairman Jim over Glentoran that has virtually two seasons — not a bad record. Soon after Fulham midfielder Kerr, the Irish League’s and Linfield’s most suc- TOMMY PRIESTLY secured a 50th title for the fa- Such is the Blues’ vastly superi- Danny Murphy caused outrage cessful manager Roy Coyle, lifelong Blueman 14 1932-1933 mous south Belfast club. or goal difference over Crusaders, when he accused some man- Jonathan Lamont, legendary football writer 1212 14 The former Institute man was one more win — preferably at agers of pumping up their play- Malcolm Brodie and Belfast Telegraph Sports One of the most controversial fig- offered an opportunity to shine in home to Cliftonville on Saturday ers before sending them out Editor Steven Beacom, who chaired the panel. BOBBY BRAITHWAITE ures in 1930s football, Tommy place of the suspended Jamie Mul- — will get the party started. into a game. The panel were asked to consider the ability could not be mistaken on the field grew and he responded in dream Linfield are so close to another McCarthy said, however: “I of the players, their contribution to the club, 1957-1963 for he wore a rugby-type skull cap fashion. championship win they can smell think you'll find that staying up their relationship with the fans, star quality and to obscure his premature The red, white and blue rib- it but there is no champagne fly- is the bigger story with me. I'm honours collected at Windsor Park. They called him Gento baldness. bons will not need to be removed ing around the changing room not bothered about anything Already we have started with numbers 25 — a tribute to his skill His career began from the Gibson Cup as the Blues yet and Lowry knows their mis- else. There is always a sub-plot through to 16, and continue today and all week on the wing resembling at Coleraine but are six points ahead of Crusaders sion is not complete. which the media all like, but it until Saturday when we will reveal Linfield’s the world-renowned he left them for a with three rounds of games re- “Tuesday was one of those goes right over my head. number one. Real Madrid superstar year at Windsor maining. matches when I managed to get Double trouble: Philip Lowry’s brace against Glentoran blasted the Blues to the brink of another title “None of that garbage washes Already the list has been the subject of huge Francisco Gento. Park and was They think it’s all over, it is now. myself in the right place at the with me at all.” debate on the Irish League Supporters website. Crusaders developed transferred in 1933 Crusaders deserve immense cred- right time,” said Lowry. “I have “It’s always nice to score against on Saturday and they will be de- capable of beating us if we do not Below is a sample of thoughts from the fans. him as a teenager be- for £3,000 to Chelsea it for applying pressure with an ex- wanted to get forward and score Glentoran but what matters is the termined to beat us. perform. Weir is relishing his fore joining Linfield after rejecting offers traordinary 10-game winning run, goals and thankfully that hap- team performance and I was just “Although they have lost their “The great thing from our per- ‘last’ Old Firm clash My old uncle who played the game in 1905 and he appeared in five from several clubs includ- but the Blues proved they de- pened. It was a massive result for thrilled to get back into the side manager (Eddie Patterson) their spective is that we have come maintained Marshall McEwan was the best Irish Cup finals in six ing Rangers. served to be champions with two us and it’s all about the team and make a contribution. players will be keen to prove they through a very tough round of RANGERS captain David Weir he had seen, Gerry Morgan a close second. years. Tommy always hit out at of- impressive wins over Glentoran rather than what I do. “No-one can say we are across have a future at the club and they fixtures and passed the test. will treat Sunday's Old Firm My judgement, I will take from when I was Robert Munn Braith- ficialdom when he felt it was nec- and away victories at Portadown “What matters is that we win the line yet and no-one will be will want to end the season on a “In big matches players have derby as if it is his last — but around as a 16/17-year-old in the war years waite became a Lin- essary and championed many causes. His career was colourful, and Crusaders. games and hopefully there’s a title thinking that way. We have a very high and qualify for Europe. to step up to the plate and the boys only because he realises how starting about 1943. field immortal as a his talent unlimited. When the going got tough, at the end of the season for us. tough game against Cliftonville “We are well aware that they are have done that.” special they are. Goalkeeper: Tommy Breen, always rated with goalscorer in the 1962 He was twice capped by Ireland in 1932 and 1933 and there The defender turns 41 next Frank Swift as the best in Britain. seven-trophy team. He should have been many more in the pipeline, however they month and has still not decided Right back: Dick Keith, Newcastle, Ireland left Windsor Park in never materialised. whether he will quit Ibrox — or Left back: Alf McMichael, also Newcastle and 1963 and his job in the He became a principal of a school at Lambeg where his aca- Boyce is weighing up options as Glens wait playing in general — at the end Ireland. shipyard to become a full-time profes- demic qualities and leadership earned him high reputation. He of the season. Right half: Walter McMillen, Man United sional with Middlesbrough, and after attended Irish League matches most Saturdays as a guest in the DARREN Boyce has admitted he BY GRAHAM LUNEY “I have to weigh everything up outlined to me what players he tainly gives them a better chance Weir is only focusing on the and Ireland. a number of failed comeback in- Press box until his sudden death after an operation at the Royal is facing one of the biggest deci- in my mind,” said Boyce who pre- wants to bring to the club. of winning the league. league run-in, which could be Centre half: Billy Mould, Stoke City — even juries he joined Durban City, South Victoria Hospital on July 28, 1985. sions of his career with Glentoran Oval chief Scott Young desper- viously joined the Glens in Janu- “I know I left Glentoran before “I was surprised he left but then defined at Ibrox on Sunday. ahead of my favourite Bun Hamill. Africa and also for a period man- Thomas James Montgomery Priestley, 74, was a one-off, a and Portadown waiting to pounce ately wants Boyce to link up with ary 2008, but returned to but Scott Young, who was a coach again, he has never won anything Weir said: “It could be my last Left half: Tommy Brolly, Millwall. Most aged Bloemfontein City, occa- man of dignity and principle. if he turns down a new contract Carson in east Belfast as the Glens Coleraine after failing to secure a then, thought I should hang in and a player of his quality de- Old Firm game but I don't mean feared in Britain. sionally playing for them. He offer at Coleraine. set out to break Linfield’s strangle- regular starting place. there and not leave. Carsy signing serves to be a winner. that as in I've decided I'm leav- Outside right: Davy Cochrane, a freak sent to currently resides at Port Boyce wants assurances from hold on the Gibson Cup. “Glentoran and Portadown have for them is a big signing and cer- “Coleraine have offered me all ing Rangers in the summer. I us by the Lord to lift our spirits. Elizabeth. Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney But Kearney is also determined expressed an interest in me and it they can and Oran wants me to genuinely don't know what I'm Inside right: Stan Pearson, Man United idol. A natural left-winger, that Coleraine will be a formida- to strengthen his Coleraine squad is always nice to be wanted but it stay.” going to do. Centre forward: Wor Jackie Milburn, New- capped ten times, he MARTIN MCGAUGHEY 1977-1993 ble force next season but the de- and after losing Carson, he is has certainly given me a lot of 11 Kearney said: “The offer we’ve “I feel you've got to go into castle and England idol. 13 parture of Stephen Carson to haunted by the prospect of losing thinking to do. made Darren is a very good one, every derby thinking it could be was the nearest 13 The number of goals Inside Left: Alex Ormston, Stoke City — the approach as a MARTIN McGaughey is regarded as one of Lin- titles in the process. It’s widely acknowledged Glentoran has made the job of other big names such as Boyce, “I’m no different than any other but I know he’s a footballer first and your last one and you have to silver ghost. successor to field’s finest-ever strikers. that his greatest season was in 1984-85 when keeping the 25-year-old at the striker Leon Knight and goalkeep- player in the sense that I want to Boyce has scored for foremost and any decision he will relish the moment and rise to Outside left: Billy Liddell, Liverpool and Peter McPar- He signed as a youth team player in 1977, he finished second in the race to win the Euro- Showgrounds a more difficult one. er Davy O’Hare. win medals and Oran (Kearney) Coleraine this season make will be a footballing one.” it,” he added. rated Scotland's best. land, the Swe- and made his first team breakthrough during pean Golden Shoe, just losing out to Porto's There are many I have sadly left out over the den ’58 World Cup the 1980-81 season. Fernando Gomes. time I have followed Linfield from the end of hero. Initially he took some stick from the terraces In total that year McGaughey (main picture), the Bambrick era 1936 until the 1970s. but once he started scoring, that stopped and nicknamed ‘Buckets’, scored a remarkable 57 REAL McCOY hero worship from the Kop began. goals. He was prolific throughout his Linfield career He left Linfield and eventually finished his Words: Steven scoring over 317 goals in 533 matches — a career at Ards, having won one international Tomorrow: We continue Beacom and magnificent record — helping the Blues win six cap for Northern Ireland. the countdown from 10 to 6 Malcolm Brodie BELFAST TELEGRAPH FRIDAY APRIL 22 2011 FRIDAY APRIL 22 2011 BELFAST TELEGRAPH 68 SPORT SPORT 69

Continuing our countdown of the Blues’ finest-ever footballers Premier League Beacom v McNally predictions BILLY MURRAY BOB MILNE MARSHALL MCEWAN 66 1977-1988 77 1890-1910 88 1911-1916 A true genius who A Scot from Forfar the Never capped by was given the label well-built Milne joined Scotland, Marshall “there is only one the Gordon High- McEwan frequently They used to love him, but Roo Billy Murray”. landers which was sta- visited Northern Ire- He had 11 sea- tioned in Belfast where land with his par- sons at Windsor they formed a regi- ents on summer Park under Roy mental team which holiday and like all Coyle in the 1980s, Milne captained to an Glaswegians was a becoming the Irish Cup Final 3-1 suc- football fanatic. He scourge of full- cess over Cliftonville. played for Everton, 25 backs. He played for He brought himself Blackpool, Bolton will leave Everton fans in despair 25 Portadown at out- out of the army and and Chelsea and GREATEST side left but his signed for the Blues in under complex rules heart was with Linfield as a member of the 1890, taking over the captaincy in 1903 from moved to Linfield through the “open door” as WE are getting down to the nitty Belmont Supporters Club from the age of 11. Sam Torrance. no transfer agreements existed between the gritty in the FA Premier League. His signing was a Coyle masterstroke. Only 20, he helped the Blues win the Irish various associations. This is the time when titles are de- LINFIELD He was a natural, sprinting past defenders, Cup — and eventually collected nine of the His performance in the 1913 Irish Cup Final cided and relegation issues are sort- floating balls into the box and the king of set precious winners medals. against Glentoran was described as the most ed out. pieces. He could turn a match in a second. He Add to that eight Irish League Champi- amazing for years — incredible artistry, real Last week in the predictions bat- was the superstar in a team of superstars. onship and 27 Ireland caps, although he was a Roy of the Rovers stuff. Old timers say he was tles with the readers, I suffered my PADDY POWER SPECIAL PLAYERS “After I left Linfield I joined Ballyclare Com- Scot. The number of caps is remarkable given something else as a footballer. Pure class. sixth defeat of the campaign, losing Man Utd v Everton rades but my heart was not really in it when I in those days internationals were only staged McEwan won all the Irish honours, remained 5-4 to Alan Hughes. hung up the blue shirt,” he said. between the four British Associations. in Belfast and opened several businesses, but I’m still ahead 17-6 overall and this ... if there are more than four Billy held the record of being the first out of The seven years residency rule in those days died in an old people’s home at Newtown- week face Manchester United fan goals in this game, Paddy OF ALL the dressing room at the end of matches. “He made him eligible. abbey visited by members of the Linfield sup- Jonathan McNally, who is predicting would be going through the door showered He died in 1954, leaving a legacy as one of porters organisations. He died in January 1966 a win for the Red Devils tomorrow. Power will refund all losing and changed and the others were just coming Linfield’s outstanding players and the type and with no close relatives was buried by the As always Paddy Power supplies first/last goalscorer, correct off the pitch,” quipped Coyle. who established the club’s reputation in Belfast Welfare Authority at the City Ceme- the odds and will offer a free bet at the end of the sea- score & scorecast singles on TIME “Yes, he was one of the true greats.” worldwide football. tery. son to the reader with the most points. Currently that’s Graeme Kingston on 12. the match All matches kick-off at 3pm on Saturday, unless LINFIELD are celebrating their 125th anniver- stated. sary this year. To mark the occasion, the Belfast SPURS v WBA Telegraph decided it would be a worthwhile and PETER RAFFERTY BOLTON v ARSENAL (Sunday 4pm) With Manchester City not playing until Monday, Spurs can thought-provoking exercise to attempt to name It doesn’t matter the situation these days — Arsenal are jump above them into fourth place.They should be in confi- the 25 greatest Linfield players of all time. 99 1973-1982 experts when it comes to losing a lead. Last weekend they dent mood after coming from 3-1 down to draw 3-3 with It was not an easy task for the judging panel blew it in injury time against Liverpool and on Wednesday Arsenal on Wednesday.They could have won it, but beating consisting of respected Linfield chairman Jim they found a way to let a two goal advantage slip at Spurs. West Brom will be consolation and will pile the pressure on Kerr, the Irish League’s and Linfield’s most suc- The Raf — what a character. Peter Rafferty is a Linfield So, if Bolton are 3-0 down with 30 minutes to go they City in the battle for the final Champions League place. cessful manager Roy Coyle, lifelong Blueman stalwart, yet it was at Distillery where he established should not give up hope. Mind you, the way Bolton failed Beacom Prediction: 2-1 Jonathan Lamont, legendary football writer himself as a centre-half and throughout his career oc- in their FA Cup semi-final against Stoke, I doubt Owen McNally Prediction: 3-1 Malcolm Brodie and Belfast Telegraph Sports cupied every position including goalkeeper. Coyle’s players will be feeling too good at present. For Looking forward: Wayne Rooney didn’t score at Newcastle but it may be different against Everton PADDY POWER ODDS: Spurs 8/13 Draw 14/5 WBA 9/2 Editor Steven Beacom, who chaired the panel. He made 260 appearances for the Whites, scor- once if Arsenal score first they should win. Already we have listed numbers 25 through ing 36 goals before starting his Linfield career Beacom Prediction: 1-2 to 11, and continue today with 10 to 6. Tomor- in December 1973. McNally Prediction: 1-3 MAN UNITED v EVERTON (Saturday 12.45pm) BLACKBURN v MAN CITY (Monday 8pm) row we will reveal Linfield’s number one. Nicknamed “Bald Eagle”, Rafferty PADDY POWER ODDS: Bolton 10/3 Draw 5/2 Arsenal Even if, as they should, Manchester United go on to win Like Stoke fans, the boys and girls who sing Blue Moon will WOLVES v FULHAM The list has been the subject of huge debate played 331 games in 5/6 the Premier League, I’m not sure I’ll be convinced that the still be on a high. Beating Manchester United in an FA Cup It’s so tight down at the bottom that a win for Wolves on the Irish League Supporters website. Below the blue jersey, scor- current side can be considered a great one. Maybe if they semi-final will go down as one of those ‘I was there’ mo- against Fulham could lift them out of the bottom three. is a sample of thoughts from the fans. ing 42 goals – primari- won the Champions League as well, I’d change my mind. ments.The thing is for City they must kick on and finish in They need a lift after getting hammered by Everton last ly as a centre-back. CHELSEA v WEST HAM (Saturday 5.30pm) The thing is United have won just five games away from the top four to secure a place in the Champions League week.Wolves are a funny team — capable of beating Man Not sure about making the top 25 of all His medal collection Chelsea players will be thinking they have an outside home this season — that’s the same as Blackpool. It’s the and also win the FA Cup.That would represent a fine sea- United, Chelsea, Man City and Liverpool, as they have time, but from my time (1988 onwards) includes five Irish chance of retaining the title.They will also be thinking form at Old Trafford that is taking them to title number 19. son for Roberto Mancini’s side. Mario Balotelli could be the done this season, but equally adept at losing to lesser there'd be the likes of: Bailie, McGaughey, League, three Irish Cup about the possibility of sending West Ham down.And that, They have won 15 out of 16 games at the Theatre of man to watch for the rest of the season. Considered a wild sides. Mick McCarthy must address that against Fulham. Dornan (Alan), Easton, Doherty, Murphy, and one All Ireland. even though former boss Avram Grant is in charge at Dreams, drawing the other one. Everton have started to hit card before Wembley, he’s now a hero with the City faithful Beacom Prediction: 2-1 Gorman (both Tony & Dessie), Haylock, Fer- He quit in 1982 to join Ards and then Crusaders. Upton Park. It’s amazing to think with all the high profile form but I can’t see them upsetting Sir Alex Ferguson’s for winding up Rio Ferdinand. He might celebrate that new McNally Prediction: 2-1 guson, Thompson, Fenlon, Peebles, Beatty. He was the newspaperman’s dream. He could provide managers down the years, Grant is still the only one to men.Wayne Rooney will come in for some stick from the found status by netting the winner at struggling Blackburn. PADDY POWER ODDS: Wolves 6/4 Draw 11/5 Fulham Also seen the great Peter Rafferty once, so a story in an instant. have taken the Blues to a Champions League final. Evertonians who used to revere him. For that he’ll no doubt Beacom Prediction: 1-2 15/8 he'd obviously be in there. CAINESS In one match with Linfield leading 4-1 he sat on Beacom Prediction: 3-1 score. Celebrations won’t include cursing into a TV camera. McNally Prediction: 1-1 the ball in his own six yard area and motioned McNally Prediction: 4-0 Beacom Prediction: 3-1 PADDY POWER ODDS: Blackburn 5/2 Draw 23/10 City There's been plenty of ‘princes', even some Glentoran players to come to him. PADDY POWER ODDS: Chelsea 2/7 Draw 4/1 West Ham McNally Prediction: 2-1 11/10 ‘kings', to wear the royal blue, but the No.1 is He made one Northern Ireland appear- 11/1 PADDY POWER ODDS: United 4/9 Draw 10/3 Everton LIVERPOOL v BIRMINGHAM sure to be The Duke. BLUE TIL I DIE ance against England in 1979 but 13/2 The Reds showed great heart at the Emirates last time out. his forte was the Irish League in After going behind in the 98th minute to Arsenal, the vast None of us would have watched Bob Milne which he made such a huge ASTON VILLA v STOKE majority of sides would have given up, feeling the final but his club/ international career would impact. BLACKPOOL v NEWCASTLE I would imagine the visiting fans in this one will still be on whistle was seconds away, but Liverpool kept going until probably be the best of any Linfield player. It really is crunch time for Blackpool.After a desperately SUNDERLAND v WIGAN cloud nine.The last time they left home to go and watch a they were rewarded with Dirk Kuyt’s penalty earning them Should be an automatic selection. THE CAT disappointing 3-1 home defeat to Wigan last week, Ian A few weeks ago this would not have been considered a football match their team put on one of the greatest per- a well deserved draw.And this with a patched up side, lit- Holloway’s side find themselves in the bottom three for the relegation six pointer. It is now because Sunderland are in formances in the club’s history and reached the FA Cup tered with kids.Aside from a midweek defeat at Chelsea, Tommy Leishman,wasn’t a tall player but first time this season. Newcastle look safe, so they may not as much bother as Wigan.At least Roberto Martinez’s side final.The 5-0 victory over Bolton in the Wembley semi- Birmingham have picked up their form after a Carling Cup was a giant when he pulled on the royal Blue. come to Bloomfield Road with the same intensity as strug- have some momentum after their win at Blackpool, but for final was stunning.Tony Pulis is not the type to tell players hangover, so this will be a decent game. Kenny Dalglish’s TOM VALLANCE gling Wigan. Blackpool must take advantage. Sunderland the slope is getting slippier with every match. to take things easy until then, so Villa should not expect side, with the excellent Luis Suarez, should prevail. Beacom Prediction: 2-1 Beacom Prediction: 2-1 easy points. Incidentally, get well soon Gerard Houllier. Beacom Prediction: 3-1 Tomorrow: We McNally Prediction: 1-3 McNally Prediction: 1-1 Beacom Prediction: 1-1 McNally Prediction: 1-1 PADDY POWER ODDS: Blackpool 7/4 Draw 12/5 New- PADDY POWER ODDS: Sunderland Evens Draw 11/5 McNally Prediction: 2-1 PADDY POWER ODDS: Liverpool 1/2 Draw 3/1 Birming- complete the GLENN FERGUSON castle 6/4 Wigan 3/1 PADDY POWER ODDS: Villa 5/6 Draw 12/5 Stoke 7/2 ham 6/1 countdown 10 1998-2009 from 5 to 1 10 When Glenn Ferguson retires at the end of the season he will do so as a Linfield legend and an Irish Legaue legend. After starting out at Ards, he made his name as a sensational READ ALAN GREEN’S COLUMN EVERY TUESDAY IN THE BELFAST TELEGRAPH striker at Glenavon, prompting Linfield to sign him in 1998 for a record £55,000. It proved to be one of the best bargains ever for the Blues. Ferguson won every domestic trophy going at Windsor Park, several times over, includ- ing playing a hugely influential role in the modern day Grand Slam success. The man known as “Spike” was also the inspiration behind Linfield’s Setanta Cup victory in 2005. Not just an extraordinary scorer he created goals galore before moving to Lisburn Dis- tillery in 2009. He is second behind the iconic Jimmy Jones in terms of goals scored here — at the time Words: Steven Beacom and Malcolm Brodie of writing Spike, who won five Northern Ireland caps, has netted over 560 times. Brilliant. BELFAST TELEGRAPH SATURDAY APRIL 23 2011 SATURDAY APRIL 23 2011 BELFAST TELEGRAPH 56 SPORT SPORT 57 The countdown that has had everyone talking concludes today... and there are no prizes for guessing who the illustrious winner is The Duke takes top spot

TOMMY DICKSON 2525 11948-1949, 1965 GREATEST 1 44 They called Tommy Dickson and gained one cap in November JOE the Duke of Windsor and 1956 when Scotland defeated fans rated him as the ulti- Northern Ireland 1-0 at Hampden Born at Kells, County Antrim in 1923, BAMBRICK LINFIELD mate Blueman who had a Park. Alex (Sandy) Russell (below and stunning impact on Irish Dickson led the Irish League right) had a magnificent playing ca- League football, irresistible side which defeated the Eng- reer at Windsor Park where the Kop 1927-35 claims to be the greatest of lish League 5-2 at Windsor Stand was named after him for a PLAYERS them all. Park in the 1955-56 sea- number of years. He was a bantamweight, son. He was not re-en- His performances were consistent pencil-slim inside-forward gaged in April 1965 by and when his playing days ended he with an impish, petulant Linfield which one became coach of Linfield Swifts and temperament, whose boy- sports writer for a period first team trainer. He 5 OF ALL hood dream of playing for Lin- alleged “creat- still occasionally attends games and 5 field came true. Nobody wore ed a bigger is the honoured guest at Linfield that blue shirt with greater sensation social functions. ALEX pride than The Duke. than Meg Russell, who gained one cap, TIME He rejected an offer from Richardson epitomises the Olympian spirit of Belfast Celtic manager Elisha leaving sport and was a marvellous RUSSELL Scott to join Celtic when he Crossroads”. goalkeeper. O, we have reached the final day was with Brantwood and ar- The end had 1944-45, of the countdown to mark Lin- rived at Windsor Park in come — at Windsor anyway. field Football Club’s 125th anniver- 1948-49. Within four months Gibby sary. Our 25 greatest Linfield players of He found himself in a galaxy of McKenzie had recruited him for 1959-60 The description legend is often all time list has been the talk of foot- stars and had to graduate through Glentoran and he actually misused but not in the case of Sball here all week. the Swifts before he was called up played in a match at the Oval Joe Bambrick (above and right) It’s fitting that on the day the Blues could to the first team. against his old club. who scored goals with the head, clinch their 50th league title we name the ea- Dickson possessed all the attrib- The sojourn in the east lasted heel or toe. gerly awaited top five. utes and despite his frail-like ap- only temporarily for his heart He won an Ireland amateur in- It was no easy task judging the list, so pearance he tackled hard and was at Linfield. ternational cap with Glentoran in many, many thanks to Linfield chairman Jim absorbed punishment. It was, how- And when he was presented 1927 and at the end of that year Kerr, the Irish League’s and Linfield’s most ever, his immense skill, inventive- with a life membership of the moved to Windsor Park to start a successful manager ever Roy Coyle, lifelong ness and vision which impressed club, Tommy, who also had a never-to-be-forgotten era. Blueman Jonathan Lamont and legendary and laid the basis of so much Lin- spell on the management His goal blitz began in the 1929- football writer Malcolm Brodie, who were on field success. committee, said emotionally 30 season when he established a the panel, chaired by Belfast Telegraph Sports He won every honour in local he felt he had come home. record with 94 — beaten the fol- Editor Steven Beacom. football, led the squad to the Tommy Dickson is a worthy lowing season by Glentoran’s Fred Yes, was a difficult task for them, but also seven trophy clean sweep in 1962 number one in our list. Roberts who improved on that fig- an enjoyable one. There were so many good ure by two. players to choose from, but we believe few Joe is renowned for the six Blues fans will disagree with the composition goals scored in Ireland’s 7-0 win of the final 25 — or the winner. over Wales in 1930, a record which We’d also like to thank our readers for all still stands. their feedback on the issue, which has clearly He hit 183 goals in 286 games brought back magical memories and generat- for Linfield. Capped 11 times. ed much debate. 3 Without ques- 3 story so far tion Jackie Milburn He then appeared in two NOEL BAILIE (left andright) was testimonial matches for Glentoran legend Just a reminder who our panel the most accom- Billy Neill and Jimmy Moore (Ards) and this chose as greatest 25 players plished, crowd- prompted him to accept an offer from Lin- 1986-2011 to play for Linfield pulling cross-channel field who had been in secret negotiations player to grace Irish with Newcastle United. 1. Tommy Dickson League football. When the transfer announcement was 2. Jackie Milburn His name added made football fans didn’t believe that 3. Noel Bailie thousands to the at- someone of his standing would down- Noel Bailie, retiring at the end of tendances. grade to semi-professional Irish football. It the season, has the respect of 4 Joe Bambrick 15. Isaac Andrews He was impressed was the signing of the century. 22 everyone for what he has achieved 5. Alex Russell 16. Sammy Pavis with the set-up when he played for New- Here was the centre-forward supreme in over 20 years at Windsor Park. 6. Billy Murray 17. George Dunlop castle United against Linfield in October who could hit the ball with the velocity of JACKIE He has won the lot and has so 1956 to inaugurate the Windsor Park flood- a stone fired from a catapult. His goal- many medals, he has lost count. played 7. Bob Milne 18. Billy Simpson lights. So much so he decided to move his scoring and overall form earned him the Regarded as a wonderful de- over 1000 games for 8. Marshall McEwan 19. Alfie McMichael family lock stock and barrel to Northern Ulster Footballer of the Year award in MILBURN fender, capable of reading the the Blues. The club will never see 9. Peter Rafferty 20. Dick Keith Ireland although he still had the capability 1957-58; he was twice leading scorer with game like few others in the modern his like again. of playing top-grade English football at a 55 goals (1957-58) followed by 56 (1958- 1957-61 era, it is amazing to think that 40- As Linfield manager David Jef- 10. Glenn Ferguson 21. Phil Scott much higher salary for another few years. 59), 34 (1969-60 and nine (1960-61). He left year-old Bailie started out as a left frey says: “Noel is a man who has ONLINE q 11. Davy Cochrane 22. John Parke He was not a has-been or someone hop- Linfield to join non-league Yiewsley Town winger. dedicated himself to serving Lin- 12. Bobby Braithwaite 23. Billy McCleery ing for an end-of-the-career financial before taking over from Sir Alf Ramsey at Not just a magnificent player, he field Football Club and in my time, It’s the list everyone’s talking about ... did you killing but someone who genuinely fell in Ipswich. His contribution to Linfield was also became an outstanding skip- there has not been a better or agree with our panel? Who would wear the Num- 13. Martin McGaughey 24. Davy Walsh love with Ulster and its way of life. immense. per, leading the team to glory year greater Linfield player than Noel 14. Tommy Priestly 25. Dessie Gorman after year. Amazingly he has Bailie.” ber 1 shirt in your Linfield line-up? Join the great debate on www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/opinion