Glasgow Irish — A First Victory, a Lasting Tribute and a Weekend Remembering Sean Jones

The result came on a weekend marking the first anniversary of the passing of former goalkeeper Sean Jones, with the club observing a minute’s silence before kick-off.

There was also a particular connection between the goalscorers and their former teammate.

Captain Kev Barr opened the scoring, while Mark Paterson, known as Pato, struck the winning goal. Both were among Sean’s closest friends at the club, alongside Cammy McIntyre.

For Glasgow Irish, it was a first league victory of the season on a weekend when Sean was very much in their thoughts.

“It was a massive victory for us for a few reasons,” he said.

“Preseason started well but competitively we hadn’t got going yet. We have built over the weeks and probably deserved a result before now.

“But playing a tough team like Innercity and coming away with three points on an emotional day just meant everything to us as a club.”

Irish started strongly and took the lead, but Innercity responded, punishing defensive lapses at two set pieces.

The second half saw Irish create more opportunities, although at 3–3 the result remained in the balance.

“Once it got to three each it could’ve went either way,” Richie explained.

“But Irish having the more clear-cut chances and the emotion of the day proved to be the difference as it spurred the lads on.

“A very hard battle and the players showed they wanted it.”

Paterson’s winning goal eventually settled the contest at 4–3.

Some had not played for several years, while others were joining the club for the first time.

Richie believes that adjustment, combined with a more competitive league, explains some of their early difficulties.

“It’s been harder than we had anticipated,” he admitted.

“With preseason going well for us and having some old faces back not playing for a few years and some new freshness, it was always going to be a struggle, but it’s just taking time to adjust.”

He also believes the standard across the GDSFC has changed since the club last competed.

“Looking at all the league I think it’s 100% more competitive now than before.

“Last time you had a few big hitters and the rest not. But changed days.”

Sunday’s victory gives Irish a result to build upon as they continue their return to league football.

Before Sunday’s match, Glasgow Irish observed a minute’s silence in memory of their former goalkeeper Sean Jones.

Sean’s passing a year earlier affected many people across the GDSFC, where he represented several clubs and formed lasting friendships.

For Richie, there are plenty of memories of Sean’s time at Glasgow Irish, including an unusual achievement for a goalkeeper.

“Personally, he came into the club and being a big lad you knew right away that he was going to be a good keeper.

“Only downfall to his game was kicking, even though I remember he scored two penalty kicks with either foot. Was phenomenal to see.”

But it was the friendships made through football that Richie remembers most.

“At our club he met some of his best friends in life and created a true bond with them and us all.

“To us and him this club is like no other. Once you’re in, it holds a place in your heart.”

Richie confirmed that Mark Paterson, Kev Barr and Cammy McIntyre were among Sean’s closest friends at the club

“He truly is forever our number 1.”

The Number 1 Retired — The Number 95 Remembered

Glasgow Irish have made sure Sean’s place in the club’s history is permanently recognised.

Following his passing, the club retired the number 1 goalkeeper jersey in his honour.

Its replacement carries the number 95, representing Sean’s year of birth.

The shirt also bears the words RIP Sean Jones.

Richie explained the decision:

“With the shirt we retired the number 1 jersey for him and the replacement number 95 is his year of birth.

“As I said he meant a lot to us and we want to remember him forever, so was a way to show our remembrance for him.”

Sean’s name is also recognised across the GDSFC through the Golden Glove award, named in his honour.

“It is great to see that he has been respected by so many clubs throughout the GDSFC,” Richie said.

“And with the Golden Glove it is a good way to keep his name there where he was loved.

“He loved playing football and to be associated with a league he has played in for years and with a few clubs, then it’s a testament to who he was as a person.”

Frank’s Final Word

Glasgow Irish’s first league victory since returning to the GDSFC was an important result after a difficult start to the season.

The fact that Kev Barr and Mark Paterson, two players particularly close to Sean Jones, scored the opening and winning goals added significance to the occasion.

But beyond Sunday’s result, the retired number 1 jersey, the number 95 shirt and the GDSFC Golden Glove award ensure Sean’s contribution to amateur football continues to be recognised.

Three points for Glasgow Irish, and a weekend remembering a former teammate.