There is widespread sadness across the north-west today following the passing of local football legend Brian Wright.
In August 1969, Wright scored Finn Harps’ first goal in senior football.
Wright, who was the first ever professional player at Finn Harps, headed in a goal in a 10-2 defeat by Shamrock Rovers in Harps’ first League of Ireland game.
Wright played in three League of Ireland seasons for Harps having lined out for the club during the 1969 FAI Intermediate Cup campaign.
He is fondly remembered for his time at Finn Park and a stellar career also included stints at Derry City, Coleraine and Sligo Rovers.
In 1957, he became the youngest player to play in an Irish Cup final when, aged just 16, he played for Derry City in a 2-0 defeat to Glenavon
Wright had a brief spell at Port Vale before returning to Derry City, while he was a feature on a legendary Foyle Harps team that dominated the Buncrana Summer Cup.
Wright went on to become a noted football pundit, appearing regularly on BBC Radio Foyle and Highland Radio.
Wright, brought to Harps by Patsy McGowan, will always be in the history books as the scorer of that first League of Ireland goal.
He is survived by his wife Katie, children, grandchildren and a wide family circle.
Tags: