Declan McDowell was a gifted and successful footballer who hugely affected the football scene in Northern Ireland. He played for a number of different teams, including the Northern Ireland national team. He was a talented midfielder who played for several clubs over his career, including Oxford United Stars of Derry, Coleraine, Finn Harps, and Derry City. Declan McDowell passed away lately, and many people are interested in learning more about the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Declan McDowell: Early Life and Career
Declan made his professional debut with Derry City on December 1, 1985, at Belgium Park, when the club defeated Monaghan United by 2-0. After that, he went on to play 40 games for the Candystripes in the League of Ireland and was named captain 13 times during his stay with the team. In addition, he served as captain when Derry City won their first League of Ireland championship, which they accomplished by claiming the Shield against Longford Town at the end of the 1985–1986 campaign.
Career Highlights
Declan made his debut for Derry City on December 1, 1985, in a 2-0 victory over Monaghan United at Belgium Park. He went on to play 40 matches for the Candystripes in the League of Ireland and served as captain 13 times. He was also the captain when Derry City won their first-ever League of Ireland title, with a Shield victory over Longford Town at the end of the 1985/86 season.
FAI Cup Win
Declan was a part of the Finn Harps team that defeated St. Patrick’s Athletic 3-1 to win the 1974 FAI Cup. This win remains the club’s only significant prize in senior football. The goals that day were scored by Derry men Brendan Bradley (2) and Charlie Ferry, and the squad also included Tony and Donal O’Doherty, Jim Smith, Peter Hutton, and Paddy McGrory.
Infamous Ballymena United Game
Only Declan, out of all the players on the Derry squad, had lived through the historic match against Ballymena United 13 years earlier, which was the match that ultimately resulted in the club being kicked out of the Irish League.
Funeral Arrangements
As of three o’clock today, Tuesday, January 31, the cremated ashes of Declan will be laid to rest in his late family home located at 13 Lindenwood Park in Foyle Springs. Holy Family Church in Ballymagroarty will be the funeral location on Thursday, February 2, beginning at 11:20 am, followed by a requiem service at midnight. Immediately following the service, the body will be transported to the City Cemetery to rest.
Conclusion
Declan McDowell was a talented and well-liked footballer who significantly impacted the Northern Irish football scene. He was part of the Finn Harps team that won the 1974 FAI Cup and was also a part of the Derry City team that won their first-ever League of Ireland title. Declan will be remembered as a friendly and accomplished footballer who made a lasting impression on those who knew him.
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