Monday 3 February 2020

THE O'FLANAGANS AND OTHER AMATEURS-having one of those days!!


 Image result for Kevin O'Flanagan


On February 2nd 1946, Arsenal's Kevin O'Flanagan played for the Northern Ireland international team against Scotland at Lansdowne Road, having earlier represented Ireland Rugby against France in Dublin seven days earlier. In 1947, he also played once in an official rugby international against Australia, having established a reputation with the University Club of Dublin and London Irish.

He was obviously a good all round athlete, appearing in the long jump as well as being a successful sprinter, he played Gaelic Football, golf and tennis.

A doctor, he was one of the last amateurs to play first team football for Arsenal, remaining "unpaid", so he could continue with his international rugby. The "Flying Doctor" made 14 league appearances just after the Second World War and two FA Cup ties, scoring twice.


He first played for Bohemians (Bohs) between 1936-45 making 145 appearances. He then spent two years at Arsenal until 1947 and appeared in over 50 games for the Corinthian Casuals, the famed amateur team that only played in cup games and friendlies.


He dabbled with Barnet FC and Brentford FC post war, played with the Ireland FA XI v Scotland alongside well known Manchester United stars, Johnny Carey and Jimmy Dunne.

His brother Mick was also a fine all rounder and another brother Charlie played for the Bohs,
 
After playing, Kevin took up the medical job with the British Olympic team in 1948 at London,and was appointed to the International Olympic Committee from 1976 through to 1994.

 Denis Compton was one of Arsenal's more famous amateurs, better known for his cricket. But he was hampered by injury, many said that he was a better footballer than cricketer! he won an FA Cup winners medal in 1950.
Bernard Joy, below, who made his name as a sports' writer, played for Arsenal as an amateur and was the last amateur to play for R#England's full international side.
 Image result for Bernard Joy

Vivian Woodward of Tottenham and Chelsea in the beginning of the 20th Century, was also an accomplished amateur playing in the top flight. His history is on this link.....




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