Belfast Celtic 1891 - 1949

 

The Grand Old Team 

 
 
 
 

History of Belfast Celtic Football Club

Author Unknown. Published 1929 by Dormann & Hodgett, Hope St., Belfast 61 pp, price 3d

Introduction Mr. Hugh McAlinden History A Windfall First Officials First TeamA Record Undefeated Beat Linfield at First Meeting Old Associations Pass AwayVery Near Going OutJimmy Connor, " Linguist."So Near and Yet So FarCeltic Go Out of FootballAt LastMickey Leaves ΐgainAustin Donnelly Takes the WheelSome Great SignaturesRecord Season 1925-26Some StandList of TrophiesItems of Interest

Introduction

In response to a request from numerous supporters of Belfast Celtic, I have endeavoured to complete with the greatest amount of accuracy, from the meagre stuff at my disposal, the doings of one of the best sporting Clubs in Ireland and England.

Starting from very little and with less cash, but blessed with big ideas, no one can gainsay the fact but that a great deal of success has attained their efforts: Until to-day, Celtic Park is a household word in the realm of sport, and one of the  best-equipped and up-to-date enclosures in the country.

The secret of the success is due principally to the loyal and businesslike Board of Directors, a patriotic and painstaking Secretary, assisted in the Football end by one, of the most competent judges of a footballer in the game, which has been amply proven by the team in their magnificent record since he took command.

Last, but not least, the Celts are under a deep debt of gratitude to their large following of supporters who, through thick and thin, have stuck by their favourite Stripes, and will to the end.

The Editor

Mr. Hugh McAlinden

Chairman of the Directors of Belfast Celtic, and one of the most unassuming of men - quiet, and has never been known to speak " out of his turn." He has.been a practical supporter of the Celts for over 30 years. When he had " Time" he indulged in "Turfitis" as an owner; when he hadn't "Time," coursing and electric hare became the rage, and of course " Hughie" got busy, but all the "time" his main bobby has been that of Celtic F.C. He joined the first Board of Directors in 1901, and on the death of Mr Dan McCann J.P., in 1923, he succeeded him as Chairman of the Board, and still occupies that position. As a sport he delights in seeing the Celts on top, and on the other hand, he is always prepared to congratulate the winners, be they Celts or others, as a real sport should.

Time and money has always been a secondary consideration so far as Belfast Celtic and football in general is concerned, and it is the unanimous wish of all and sundry that he may be long spared to preside over the destiny of Belfast Celtic.

A great friend of all charitable objects, his heart and pocket being always open, and if his cheque books could only be thrown open for inspection, it would be a real eye opener, so far as his good work in this direction is concerned.

Following the champion season of 1926, when all the Trophies and Medals won were presented to the players, he was heard to say: "Go ahead, boys, kick the roof of the stand off, I'll make it good - (he would have done it) - is only in keeping with his open hearted sporting nature.

He is a past President of the Irish League, and in the Belfast Charities Football Competition he is a leading figure, and invariably presides over their deliberations, where, at the finish, if there is any "odd sums," he quietly draws on the cheque book to make them even, as he considers it easier distributing £200 than £183.

The McAlinden family are all sports' taking after "the old man," of course, as young Pat takes a very keen and practical interest in all matters, pertaining to the welfare of Belfast Celtic, and who knows but that some day he may be called upon to discharge, some of the important duties his father is responsible for to-day. If that occasion does arise, and he follows in " Papa's" footsteps, then we can all rest assured that the destiny of Belfast Celtic and sport in general will be in good safekeeping.

Clink your glasses, one and all, to one of the best in Irish sport.

History of Belfast Celtic F. C. Wonderful Achievements. Ambitions Realized.

It was after the Milltown Annual Meeting in the Spring of 1891, held in the old Engineers' Hall, College Street, Belfast, that, after discussing the events of the past season the chances of Milltown winning the Junior Cup, Messrs. Frank Laverty, James Keenan and Alec Bagley came to the conclusion that had Milltown depended more on local talent their chances would have been better. At the same time it must be admitted that Milltown did not spare expense in order to have a first-class team, and any changes that were made in the team were made for the better. However, the feeling got about that preference should be given home talent, knowing that there were a lot of young players about the district who, with a little training, would make first-class players. It was then that the "Big Three" came to the conclusion there should be a club representative of the Falls. How was it going to be accomplished with any chance of success with another club such as Milltown on the Falls who had all the support of the district?

During all this time the " Big Three" had been working away nice and quietly, with the result that the players of Clondara and MilIvale, a couple of good local juvenile Clubs, could be depended upon from which to select a first-class junior team. It was then that Jimmy Keenan added another verse to his song " Merry Milltown," which ran thus:

I hear the good old Falls

Will not be long without a team.

There are whispers of a new one

That will sport the White and Green;

And in spite of opposition,

Referees or I.F.A.,

We will take the Cup from Linfield

Far away, far away, etc.

The call for players was then sounded with the result that the Millvale boys, headed by Frank Laverty, came over in a body, while Frank Laverty brought in the Clondara boys.

About this time, the summer of 1891, a Cricket match was played in Falls Park which helped very materially to consolidate the forces considerably. Clondara for some seasons had carried on a Cricket team, but its membership had been reduced to four, namely, F. Laverty, J. Crummy, D. Reilly and W. J. Heggarty, who still retained the Plant, sent out a challenge for the championship of the Park, which was taken up by Model Star. Clondara for that day took the name of the Sentinel. The team was made up of Frank Laverty, Capt.; A. Begley, J. Crummy, P. Mooney, Bob Hayes, D. Reilly J. Heggarty, J. Fegan, A. McLarnon, J. Hanna and J. McGrady. The match ended in an easy win for Sentinel, due to the fine bowling of Paddy Mooney and Frank Laverty, who skittled Model Star out for the small score of five runs.

The reason why this match is referred to is it showed the amount of foresight displayed by the " Big Three" in keeping the boys together for the opening of the football season. The time had now come to call a meeting, which was held in Mr. James Henry's, 88 Falls Rd., now occupied by Mr. Lawrence Haughey.

On the appointed night, eleven all told answered the call. Their names were: J. Keenan, J. Crummy, D. Reilly, Paddy McAuley, Bob Hayes, H. McArdle, Bob Butler, J. Keaney, P. Mooney, A. Begley, and Frank Laverty. A report of the canvas of the district for players and members was given and considered satisfactory.

The Chairman, James Keenan, after explaining the business of the meeting, which was the formation of a new junior Football Club, thoroughly representative of the Falls, suggested it should be called Belfast Celtic, after our Glasgow friends, and that our aim should be to imitate them in their style of play, win the Irish Cup, and follow their example, especially in the cause of Charity.

A Windfall

The sum of nine shillings was taken in subscriptions that night, not much to start a new Club with, but sufficient to purchase the first members' cards, which were procured in Doherty's, in Ann Street. It was a hard task disposing of them, as very few took the new Club seriously, while many predicted a speedy ending. Some of those who refused to take a member's card at the start became prominent with the Club in after years. Notwithstanding these set backs, the officials and members in spite of refusals of support from where it was expected, were determined to carry on. 

The most important business was to secure a ground, as in it lay the only hope of existence, and without it they were bound to go under.

At this time one of the Gaelic Clubs were in occupation of a ground at Broadway, which it was considered would be most suitable if only terms could be arranged. Accordingly, a deputation, consisting of Messrs. Frank Laverty and Alec. Begley, met a Committee of the Belfast Gaels, and as Frank Laverty, and the Clondara boys had assisted the Gaels in many of their matches, both in Dublin and most of the towns of the North, it was thought that there would be no difficulty in getting the ground, at least for Saturday evenings. Eventually the ground was secured for Saturday evenings only, on condition that the full rent of the ground was paid, which, needless to say, was gladly accepted. In fact, any price would have been paid, as it was a case of life or death.

Having secured the ground, it was decided to apply for admission to a little competition called the Alliance, and were unanimously admitted. All was now excitement in the camp, and before the season opened, a friendly match was arranged with Glentoran II., who at that time were considered the best junior team in Ireland. After a real, hard fought game, in which the young Stripes gave a good account of themselves, they were only beaten by 2-1

First Officials

The first Celtic officials were James McCann, President; James Keenan, Treas.; Alec. BegIey, Sec.;Frank. Lavery, Captain; Harry Laverty, ViceCaptain.

The first ground was situated below the Bee Hive, Broadway, Falls Road, on the same side, just where Brighton Street is now, and many hard battles took place on the same pitch.

Having secured admittance to the Alliance, the Committee was always assured of plenty of matches throughout the season.

Towards the end of the season, the Committee were fortunate in securing the services of a great player named Jimmy McKenna, of Govan Hib's, as well as bringing in Frank Toal from Willowbank. The Alliance matches being almost finished, the Committee were anxious to secure a match with Milltown, their great rivals on the Falls, although they were a Senior team. After many challenges, they at last consented to play, but only on condition that the match would be played at their ground - evidently they were not taking any risk, although they were in the Senior League, and Celtic were only in the Alliance. There was great exciteinent on the Falls on that Easter Saturday evening when the rivals met. In the report of the match it was compared to the meeting of the Lion and the Mouse. Celtic relied on their usual team, but Milltown strengthened their team by including Jimmy Thompson, of Distillery, an International goalkeeper; also Paddy McGarvey (or McGarry), of Linfield. Notwithstanding all these preparations, the young Celts played them off their feet, and in the second half Milltown rarely got over the half line, Celtic .Winning by 3-2. To beat a Senior team in their first season was a very big performance, and the winning of this match proved Belfast Celtic to be the coming champions. Imbued with their success, the young Celts applied for admission to the Junior League, and although opposition came from their great rivals, Milltown, they were admitted.

First Team

J. Hayes, H. Laverty, F. Laverty, J. Cairns, F. Toal, Pat Heaney, W. Cairns, Charley Breen, J. McKenna, P. McAuley, D. Reilly, which played in a little competition called the Alliance.

It will be seen that great progress was made by the young Celts, only " two years of age," and justified their admission to the Junior League by gaining runners-up position to Distillery II. In the season 1892 and 1893 they dropped a bombshell in the local football world by beating Cliftonville 2-1 in the semi-final of the County Antrim Shield, and in the final were only beaten on the tape by Distillery at Grosvenor Park by 2-1.

It is an old saying and a true one, the third time is the charm, and so it was with the young Celts. The Robinson & Cleaver Shield had been secured for competition by the League, thanks to the efforts of the genial Frank Osborne (then Secretary of the League), and from the moment that was announced, Alec. Begley and Frank Laverty were determined to have the name of Belfast Celtic first engraved upon it, and they succeeded, so that grit and determination must have been handed down as a sort of heritage to the team of the present day. But the winning of the League was not their only ambition, as again they got to the final of the County Antrim Shield, only to see Cliftonville reverse the previous season's defeat in the semi-final and win by 2-1.

The next and last season in the ranks of the Juniors was the culminating point of a most consistent effort on the part of one of the most loyal body of officials and band of players that ever donned the now famous Green and White shirts. Their record stands for the past seasons will hardly ever be beaten, by winning the Junior League three years in succession, in addition to reaching the final of the Senior Co. Antrim Shield also three years in succession. Undefeated in the Junior League, having played 18 matches without a defeat, and with only five goals against them. In the final of the Co. Antrim Shield they met and defeated Distillery by 3-1.

 

P

W

L

D

F

A

PTS

1893 - 4

18

15

1

2

56

16

32

1894 - 5

18

15

0

3

61

15

33

1895 - 6

14

11

1

2

47

13

24

A Record Undefeated

Surely a record for a junior team to be in the final of a Senior competition three consecutive seasons out of their first five years of existence.

The team that season was Blakely, H. Laverty, F. Lavery; Kearns, Toal, and Kearney; McGarry, Breen, McAuley, Kelly, and Magee.

That was undoubtedly a great side then. Frank Lavery, who started as a full-back, became a splendid goalkeeper. Frank Toal (not long since deceased) was a great big centre-half. Pat McAuley, the centre-forward, was "capped" for Ireland; while Paddy McGarry and Charles Breen were about the strongest right wing then in football. There was a competiton organised by the Junior League, known as the Charity Shield. It created a great deal of interest over thirty years ago, largely due to the influence of Celtic. They won the Shield, and as a result over £100 was given to the hospitals.

One of the young Celts best friends in those days of hard fighting was Mr. Hugh Fitzpatrick, who stood by them through thick and thin, and is still with them, as hale and hearty as ever.

There are still four of the, first nine members of the young Celts to the fore in Belfast yet - Harry Laverty, james Crummie, Alec. Laverty, and Frank Laverty, their first Captain.

When they were going so well as a Junior Club, they had the temerity to challenge Linfield. Having beaten Distillery, a Senior club, in the Antrim Shield final, they felt justified in tackling Linfield. The latter accepted, and the battle took place at Broadway, where the Celtic enclosure was then.

Beat Linfield at First Time of Meeting

At any rate, Celtic won by 1-0. Enthusiasm, of course, knew no bounds. Celtic team was - Bleakley, Laverty, Stranaghan, Kearns, Toal, Mulherron, Breen, McGarry, Somerset, Kelly, Magee.

They considered Celtic a cut above even the Irish Intermediate Cup, and classed them as a Senior club. They had no option but to obey, and in May, 1896, they were admitted to the Irish Football League. They had not then an enclosure, and had to play all their League games on the ground of their opponents. Still. they persevered, and a year later got an enclosure at Whiterock Road, familiarly known as "Klondyke" and afterwards Shaun's Park, and here they did a great deal better. Their League records for the first two seasons were:

P W L D F A PTS
1896-7 20 2 3 15 20 15 7
1897-8 20 9 3 8 46 38 21

1898-99-Reached the Steel Cup final and lost to Linfield Swifts by 1-0.

League Champions

1899-1900 - Won the Irish League Championship for the first time, with Linfield runners-up. Steel Cup final lost to Cliftonville Olympic by 3-0. Team - Maginnis, Fleming, Doran, Nicholl, Connor, McConville, McGarry, Abraham, Dorrian, Anderson, Dornan.

Old Associations Pass Away

At this period the old Belfast Celtic was cornpletely wiped out, being taken over lock, stock, and barrel by the present Company at Celtic Park.

1901 - Belfast Celtic was now formed into a Limited Company, with a £3,000 capital of £1 shares. The first Board of Directors were - Messrs. James Millar, John McKenna, David McCloskey, John Rooney, Hugh Fitzpatrick, Charles Watters, Henry Scullion, Patrick M'Crush, Hugh McAlinden, Joe Smyth. Present Chairman of the Board - Mr. Hugh McAlinden.

The first League match played at Celtic Park took place on 31st August, 1901, and the opposition on that occasion was Glentoran, who at that time was at the height ol their form. The latter won by 3-1. The next match was against Ulster at Ballynafeigh, and ended in a draw 1-1. The third match was the first visit of Derry Celtic, the famous Barney Donaghy's team, and the third time being the charm the first winning flag at Celtic Park.by the score of 2-1.

The year 1901 was the most momentous in the history of the Club, as it was then that Belfast Celtic became a Limited Company, and Celtic Park was acquired. It was thought that there was too much ground and it was decided to surrender about 2 acres on the Falls Road end.

The following is an interesting list of the players on the wages list at the time:

W. Donnelly, G Fleming, J. McAvoy, Harry Nicholl, the great Jimmy Connor, J. McConville, Harry Dornan, Isaac Doherty (formerly Linfield), T. Bell, Richard Buchanan, Robert Clarke (Hilden), Ned Maguire. It was on the 7th September

that the name of Willie Clay, probably the finest back of his time, was added. There was no glut of matches that season, as from 15th February till 5th April, 1901 and 2, that no matches were played. 

However, there were few who thought that in about ten years time portion of the surrendered portion would be necessary to meet with the improvements decided upon by the Directorate, so the surrendered portion was re-acquired in 1912, at a greatly enhanced figure. The greater portion of the new unreserved stand is built on this new section, which extends to the banks of the old Blackwater River.

1903 and 1904 - Mr. Bob Barr was appointed part-time Secretary in succession to the late Mr. Alf Lockhart. Lost to Linfield in Shield Final, 4-1.

1904 and 1905 - Won the Charity Cup. Runners-up in the League to Glentoran.

1905 and 1906 - Won the Charity -Cup.

1906 and 1907 - Won the Charity Cup.

1907 and 1908 - (No luck) - Haddock, McCann, McCartney (Linfield), Nicholl, Connor, Watson, Andy Hunter, Steve Mulholland, Halligan, Diamond, and Luke, Devlin.

1908 and 1909 - (No trophies) –Team - Curran, Bob Mills (Cliftonville), McCandless, Magill, DevIin, O'Neill, Doyle, McKeown, McMahon, Hamill, Luke, Devlin.

1909 and 1910 - Runners-up in the League to Cliftonville. Won the Shield, beat Glentoran 3-1.

1910 and 1911 - Charity Cup final lost to Glentoran, 4-2.

Very Near Going Out

It was in this season that a crisis arose in the history of Belfast Celtic, which almost meant the closing down from football, due to the harsh suspension of a player named Neal Clarke in the Irish Cup tie against Bohernians at Celtic Park, during which the crowd broke on to the playing pitch and the game had to be abandoned. The referee's decisions did not go well with the crowd, for which there was some cause. However, the referee's report (Mr. Entwistle) was an eyeopener to the Celtic officials, as he blamed the whole thing on Neal Clarke for having, it was alleged, kicked an opponent, an incident seen by very few. The I.F.A., after a lengthy sitting, came to the conclusion at two o'clock in the morning that Clarke would be suspended for ten months, and that the ground be closed for one month. The only man to openly protest against the injustice of the sentence was the heaviest man in Irish football, Jimmy Clarke, of Cliftonville, excluding of course, the late Frank Toal, and he bluntly told the Committee that the punishment was harsh and unjustifiable.

The Celtic following took the decision that much to heart that it was only on the eve of the County Antrim Shield semi-final with Linfield at the famous Grosvenor Park, and further, that it would be the Celts farewell to football. As a result of Neal Clarke's suspension, Andy Davidson was brought into the centre forward position, and Mick Hamill took up the inside right berth. It is an ill-wind that blows nobody good, and Andy Davison not alone did the hat trick, but helped materially to turn defeat into a glorious victory by 3-2. It was a big factor in deciding Celts not to go out of football, as they went on to win the Shield, beating Glentoran in the final by 3-1 at Cliftonville with the lollowing team: Murphy, McDaniel, McCann, Crothers, Connor, Anderson, McGivern, Hamill, Davidson, Briggs, Walker.

At the conclusion of the season 1911-12, in which they won the Gold Cup and the Charity Cup, beating Cliftonville in the final by 3-0 before a record gate of £166. The Seconds won the Steel Cup, beating Glentoran II by 3-1.

A continental tour was arranged to the Prague in the month of June, 1912, and the party that did the journey were Messrs. Dan McCann, J.P. (decd.) ; Hugh McAlinden, D. McCloskey, J. McInerny (decd.); Brady, Cahal O'Byrne, R. Barr, and the players were W. Lavery (Capt.) ; C. Gibson, J. Nelson, R. Norwood, Jimmy Connor (decd.); T. Lewis, Jordan Robertson, H. Buckle, Nipper Smith, Oscar Trainor (goalie), and Louis Crowe (centre forward), the latter two hailing from Dublin. Sam Palmer also did the trip, but left early for home owing to sickness. Altogether there were five matches played, the Celts winning five and drew one. Harry Buckle did most of the scoring. In the drawn match, the referee never moved from the corner flag during the whole game.

Jimmy Connor, " Linguist."

During their stay in Prague an invitation was received from one of the local Literary Societies, composed principally of students, who thought it would he a grand opportunity to brighten up their "English" a bit by conversing with the members of the party. It was a regular scream when the late Jimmy Connor, with his broad Scotch dialect (Downpatrick), and Bobby Norwood, in the pure Lisburn dulcet tones, endeavoured to educate them in English as it should be spoken, and the poor students drank it all in?

Says one member of the party - We were having a good time in Prague for the first four or five days, until somebody asked for the loan of a " fag." All the cigarette smokers began to take stock, and found their supplies were running very low, so from that on every man had one object in view, viz., to find a shop that sold "Woodbines" or "Players". Some of them had bought cigarettes called "Sport" (but they were poor Sports), and you could have got ten or twelve Sports for one Woodbine. Every man was now a "secret service agent," looking for information as to who kept "Coffin Nails." Every morning somebody had been told where they were to be bought, and as soon as breakfast was over the company formed up and started investigations; perhaps the chap who was in command forgot the directions he had got, and that meant a lost morning, because none of the party could speak the language (although Jordan Robertson made some heroic efforts) to find out how the land lay. In fact, every one of the party had to carry a "billhead" of the Hotel in their pockets in case they got lost.

So ended a memorable trip and a happy time.

1912 and 1913 - Charity Cup final lost to Linfield 3-1. Gate, £244, a record.

1913 and 1914 - Steel Cup final lost to Glentoran II (after a draw), 1-0. Lost Charity Cup final to Linfield, 1-0. Gate, £22 17s. 5d. Won the Intermediate Cup.

So Near and Yet So Far

1914 and 1915 – Irish Cup final lost to Shelbourne in Dublin (after a draw, 1-1), by 1-0. Team - Bert Mehaffy, J. Nelson, F. Barrett, A. Leathem, M. Hamill, R. Norwood, Ned Kerr, D. Williams, Jack Cowell, J. McKnight, J. Hegan. Went out of Senior football until 1917, Belfast United taking their plach.

1912 and 1913 - A poor season, finishing,up 6th in the League. Played 18, W. 7, L. 7, D. 4. Goals for, 24; against, 26 - 18 points.

Last in the City Cup - Played 12, W. 3, L. 8, D. 1. Goals for, 15; against, 24 - 7 points.

Lost Charity Cup final to Linfield by 3-1. Gate, £244. a record. In the junior League the Second Eleven finished runners-up, being only 4 points.behind Gleptoran II, the winners. They had ample revenge, beating Glentoran II, their great rivals, in the Steel & Sons Cup final by 3-1.

1913 – 1914 Reached Charity Cup final, and lost to Linfield, 1-0,. before a gate of £220 17s. 5d.

The Intermediate Cup was landed for the first time, and the only one in the history of the Club.

Benefit of a Coach

James Blyssington, the famous Scottish coach, was engaged for this season, and made a wonderful improvement, both in style and pace of the team, and practically laid the foundation for winning the League Championship the following season.

Mr. Bob Barr was appointed full-time Secretarv in May, 1913, and we all hope he may be long spared to wield the pen, as there is no more popular official in Irish, or even cross-channel football, than the genial and courteous "Bob." He has completed 25 years' service last May, and is getting "younger" every day.

1914-1915 Won the Irish League for the second time in 15 years. Lost the Irish Cup final to Shelbourne in Dublin (after a draw, 1-1), by 2-0. Team - Bertie Mehaffey, Nelson, Barrett, Leathem, Hamill, R. Norwood, Kerr, Williams, Jack Cowell, Jimmy McKnight, and Hegan.

Jimmy Magowan was appointed as Manager, having acted as Secretary for some three years for the Second Eleven.

Celtic Go Out of Football

Belfast Celtic dropped out of Senior football at the end of the 1914 and 1915 season until the season 1917-18.

1915 and 1916 - Won the Steel & Sons Cup, beating Distillery Il by 2-0. Runners-up Intermediate League to Glentoran II.

The season 1916 and 1917 saw the Intermediate League Championship won by one point, the record being P. 18, W. 16, L. 2, D. 0 – 62 - 8. 34 points. A protest against Glentoran Il for having played an ineligible player named John M'Laughlin was upheld.

The following season, 1917-18 saw the Intermediate League Championship again won, the record being P. 21, W. 20, L. 0, D. 1. 70 - 5. The match with Linfield Swifts was not played owing to the season being finished. Ormiston was the only team to take a point, drawing 1-1. For the first and only time, the M'EIroy Cup was also won.

At Last

The Irish Cup was won for the first time, and realized their life's ambition, beating a powerful team of Linfield by 2 - 0, at Grosvenor Park, both goals being scored by the left half, Norman Stewart. It was a great game, bristling with tense moments right throughout. This was really the turning point in the career of Belfast Celtic, as from that time up to the present they improved beyond all possible expectations, until now they are recognised as being the best all round team that has been in Ireland since the palmy days of Linfield. They were an Intermediate team at this time, and entered direct for the Irish Cup, which enhances the victory all the more.

It was in the season 1906 that the doyen of the Celtic supporters, Mick Hamill, received his first Senior baptism of fire, and that against the famous Dublin team, Shelbourne. The display of the former Belfast Rangers dark-haired youth stamped him as a player with a great future, a prophecy which was borne out three years later, when he was chosen to represent his country against England. The following season, 1910, saw Mick land his first Senior medal, when Belfast Celtic beat Glentoran in the Co. Antrim Shield final by 3-1. About this time a number of cross-channel clubs had heard about Mick, and the result was that Manchester United secured his transfer in January, 1911. He remained in England until the season 1914-15, when he returned to Belfast Celtic, and was a big factor in helping to win the Irish League Championship. It was in the season 1917-18 that Mick realised his ambition of winning an Irish Cup medal, when Belfast Celtic, although an Intermediate League team, who had entered direct for the Irish Cup were successful in winning it by beating their great rivals, Linfield, at Grosvenor Park, by 2 - 0,after two drawn games, both goals being scored by Norman Stewart, who played left half, and they were two beauties. The teams on that occasion (4th April, 1918), were - E. Scott, McStay, Barrett, Mulligan, Hamill, Stewart, McKinney, McElroy, Ferris, Johnston, and Frazer.

Linfield - M'Kee, Rollo, Foye, Dunlop, Fulton, M'Candless, Rea, Stitt, M'Laughlin, Lacey, M'Ewan.

Mickey Leaves Again

Once again Mick crossed the channel and joined Manchester City, in 1920, where he remained until 1924. It was about this time that the game began to catch on in the States, and for the purpose of popularising the game there, agents were sent over to England to get the best players possible, regardless of expense. As it was only to. be expected, Mick was approached, and being anxious to see a bit more of the world, "he fell like Nelson," and off he went to the great Republic of the West. His fame had preceeded him, as in the following season, 1925, he had the honour of being Captain of the Irish team that won the International Championship of the U.S.A.

Far off fields look green, but Mick believes there are no fields look so green as those of old Ireland, and back home he came and threw in his lot with his old love, Belfast Celtic, in the month of October, 1926. We all know the rest. His greatest opponents will even admit that he is still the finest centre half in the country, and as he says himself, he feels fit to carry on for some time yet. " Mickey, may your shadow never grow less," and the "Centre Half" always be full.

The season 1918-19, the Belfast and District League was formed, which took the place of the now disbanded Irish League, and Belfast Celtic won it only after a test match with Linfield by 1-0. Danny M'Kinney scored the goal. The gate was £589. The Celts reached the Co. Antrim Shield Final once again, only to be defeated by Distillery after a drawn game by 1-0.

1919 and 1920 - Won the League Championship, and again lost to Distillery in the County Antrim Shield final, after a draw, by 2-0, but had revenge later on by beating Distillery in the Charity Cup final. At the end of this season went out of football, and did not return until 1924.

Austin Donnelly Takes the Wheel

After repeated deputations from I.F.A. and Irish League had waited upon the Directors, it was only in the season of 1924 and 5 that it was definitely decided to return to football. Up to this time the Club could not have survived had it not been for side lines such as Athletics and Cycling, Trotting, Whippets and Boxing, as they were the main source of revenue. With the return to football Mr. Austin Donnelly accepted a unanimous invitation to act as Honorary Team Manager, and it would be like attempting to paint the lily to rehearse what has been done by him and "his boys" since then. He has a wonderfully persuasive way with him, and the players are always ready for the fray, as "members of one family," to uphold the honour and fame of the Belfast Celts. At the same time he is strict as to training as well as good conduct on the field. He can always be seen on the track in the event of "things getting a bit warm" during the game, and his presence invariably has a salutary effect, if such were needed on the players. The secret of his success lies in the fact that he is one of the "boys."

Some Great Signatures

His first lot of signatures were:- Burt Jackson, Alfy Bruce, Bob Ferguson, Bert Fulton, Davey Gamble, W. Kirkwood, Jimmy McDowell, Willie Pollock, Jimmy Gault, Sam Moore, John Doherty, Joe Henderson, Andy Smyth, Fred Roberts (Glentoran), Jack and Stanley Mahood, and the evergreen Jimmy Ferris. There wasn't a big lot of delph broken that season, finishing third in the League and getting pipped in the post in the Co. Antrim Shield Final by Glentoran 2-1.

In the close season word had come to the "Park" that in the little " Salt Town" of Carrickfergus there lived a demon goal getter (just what was required) named Sam Curran, whose goal scoring propensities had caused a few of the local Senior Clubs to get on his track.

However, it came to the ears of Mr. Jim Rice, the well-known Boxing Promoter, and his motto in life being ( a successful one at that) "When there's business to be done, do it," quietly took Joe McCleery, in the quiet of the evening, in his car to Carrick, determined to do the trick. When they arrived Sam had gone out to see "a friend," and so enquiries were made as to the direction he had gone, which was procured. Along came Sam, and in a shorter time than it would take to say "Jack Robinson" the persuasive powers of "Mr. Jim" told its tale and the blue form was well and truly signed. It would not be fair to mention names, but the representatives for a well-known club "over the way" must have felt like kicking themselves, as they had representatives there at the same time, but were caught napping. From that time up to the present Sam has never let his side down, and has given good and loyal service for the confidence reposed in him by Mr. Jim Rice. In fact, it could be truly claimed that he is the most prolifically consistent goal scorer in English, Scottish, Welsh or Irish Football, although he has been marked for special attention by the opposing, centre halves practically since he came into Senior football.

Record Season, 1925 and 26

Practically swept the boards, winning the Irish Cup, League Championship, Gold Cup, City Cup, and joint holders Charity Cup with Glentoran. The Co. Antrim Shield being won by Cliftonville Team. 

Some Stand

A conspicuous feature of the Celtic Directorate has always been to cater for all classes, rich and poor, and with that end in view a gigantic Carnival was carried out for the express purpose of erecting a covered stand for the unreserved side. As all lovers of football know the promise was kept, and to-day the finest unreserved covered stand in the kingdom now adorns the Willowbank side of the ground. It was completed this season – 1926 - at a cost of almost £10,000 and accomodates 5,000 spectators comfortably, and from any part a grand uninterrupted view of the playing pitch can be seen.

The first cover was erected on the reserved side without seating accomodation in the year 1905.

Reserved seating accomodation was provided in the year 1910.

Another glorious season, 1926 and 27, winning the Irish League (without a defeat) for the second year in succession, also the County Antrim Shield, beating Dunmurry, the well-known Intermediate team, by 3-2.

1927 and 28 was marked by the third successive win of the League Championship, thus falling into line with Linfield, who is the only other team to have won the League three times in succession (which they did on two occasions), also the City Cup.

This season, 1928 and 29, will be remembered lor the second greatest event in the history of the Club, and the greatest in the history of the Irish League competition, when the League Championship was won for the fourth season in succession, a feat never before accomplished by any other club.

It is worthy of notice that the League Championship has been won by Belfast Celtic on seven occasions, out of the eight times they have competed. 

List of Trophies Won

1892-3 Won the Irish Junior League

1893-4 Won the Irish Junior League.

1894-5 Won the Co. Antrim Shield and Irish Junior League.

1898-9 Beat in Steel Cup Final by Linfield Swifts, 1-0

1899-1900 Won the Irish League. Lost Steel Cup Final to, the Olympic, 3-0.

1903-4 Beat in Co. Antrim Shield Final by Linfield, 4-1.

1904-5 Won Charity Cup; beat Glentoran by 2-0.

1905-6 Won the City Cup.

1906-7 Won the City Cup. Lost Irish Cup Final to Shelbourne by 2-0.

1909-10 Won Co. Antrim Shield; beat Glentoran 3-1. Won the Charity Cup; beat Distillery 2-1.

1910-11 Charity Cup Final lost to Clentoran 4-2.

1912-13 Won Steel Cup Final; beat Glentoran II by 3-1.

1914-15 Won the Irish League. Won the Irish Intermediate Cup. Lost Steel Cup Final to Glentoran II (after a draw) by 1-0. Went out of Senior Football until 1917-18.

1916-17 Won the Steel Cup; beat Distillery II by 2-0. Won the Intermediate League.

1917-18 Won the Irish Cup for the first time, beating Linfield 2-0. Won McElroy Cup, the Steel Cup and Intermediate League (twice in succession).

1918-19 Won the Belfast and District League; beat Linfield in a test match 1-0. Lost Co. Antrim Shield Final to Distillery (after a draw) by 1-0.

1919-20 Co. Antrim Shield Final to Distillery 2-0 (after a draw). Irish Cup Semi-Final with Glentoran abandoned. Went out of Senior Football until 1924-25.

1924-25 Lost to Glentoran in Co. Antrim Shield Final 2-1. Charity Cup Final again lost to Glentoran by 2-1.

1925-26 Won the Irish Cup. Won the League Championship. Won the City Cup. Won the Gold Cup. Joint Holders Charity Cup with Glentoran. Won the All-Ireland Championship, beating Shelbourne.

1926-27 Won the lrish League Championship (third time in succession). Won the City Cup. Won the Co. Antrim Shield. Won the All-Ireland Championship, beating Shamrock Rovers 2-0.

1927-28 Won the Irish League Championship (third time in succession). Won the City Cup (twice in succession). Finalists Gold and Charity Cups.

1928-29 Won the Irish League Championship (fourth time in succession). Irish Cup Final lost to Ballymena by 2-1. In other words, just pipped on the post after having all the play and Ballymena getting the goals.

Items of Interest

When Belfast Celtic was formed, Bob Hayes was instructed to write Glasgow Celtic for assistance, who replied right away by sending a cheque, much to the surprise of some people, whom it was reported had written warning the Glasgow Celts against sending anything, as the locals could not possibly carry on. That's that!


John (Big) Kearney, at present in the States, holds the first member's card of Belfast Celtic, and so anxious was he to get it that he waited outside Doherty's (Printers) in Ann Street for the late Alex. Begley coming out with them.


There was a time when Belfast Celtic very near "went West" in the first year, as following defeats by Glentoran ll, Rosebank, and Suffolk, poor Alex. Begley and his pal had to pass the Milltown (rivals) corner, and got " some betting," but the dominating factor in their determination to carry on was, "what would Glasgow Celtic think about us after getting a cheque trom them."


A good story is cold about the late Alex. Begley. In an Alliance match with Clarence II at Stranmillis, the referee failed to turn up, and the Celts, winning the toss, Alex. was appointed to blow the whistle. There were three loyal supporters of the Celts turned up. Well, the Celts had all the play, but could not score. About five minutes after the start, Alex.'s watch stopped, and after playing over two hours, as apparently it was Alex's intention to play until the Celts would score, only for the spectators beginning to bawl at him: " was he going to play all night." Very reluctantly Alex. blew the long whistle, leaving the game a scoreless draw.


It is most remarkable that all the record gates in Charity matches have been made where Belfast Celtic were playing. Year after year they increased until last season the receipts went well into four figures. They are certainly worthily upholding the motto of their big brothers, Glasgow Celtic, in this respect.


Another record which Belfast Celtic can honestly claim is that Sammy Curran (centre forward) has the greatest number of goals to his credit during his first four years of Senior football than any other player in the,game, and will still bang them in.


Still another record in how to win the Irish Cup, when the other fellows are too good was demonstrated by Jimmy Ferris in the last successful Irish Cup final, 1925-6, when they again defeated Linfield 3-2. Well, "Barney" Moorehead simply wouldn't let Sammy Curran even look at the ball until Jimmy " siddled" up, and made a "fearful kick" at " Barney". What happened then was this, "Barney" went after Jimmy (just what was wanted), Sammy gets loose and scores all three goals. That's how it is done. " Barney" and Mr. James are the best of pals.


The spirit that animated Mick Hamill to play in that memorable Irish Cup final, 1917-18, with a terrible gash in the leg, when their life's ambition was realized, by beating their great rivals, Linfield and winning the Irish Cup for the first time is as strong as ever with him to-day.


Very few players ever leave Celtic Park once they have been fixed up, except at their own request. "Pa" Donnelly looks after "his boys" like a hen after her chicks.


The Irish League record of Belfast Celtic, especially during the last four seasons, will hardly be equalled, much less beaten.


One of the most famous protests in Association football, and upheld, was against Belfast Celtic in an Irish Cup tie by Cliftonville, at Klondyke, owing to the goal posts being 1and 3/4 inches out. However, in the replay the Celts won 7-0, and the posts were the correct measurement.


Can anyone tell who the Celtic half-back was that, throwing a ball in, could land it in the goal mouth as good as a corner kick?


Harry Laverty, the vetran Celtic back, says that there were no less than five leading English clubs after half of the Celtic team that beat Distillery in the Co. Antrim Shield in the season 1895 and 1896.


There is a short thrilling story about the transfer of Jimmy Ferris to Chelsea. In fact, had it not been for Mickey Hamill a cross-channel player then assisting Belfast Celtic might have created a sensation by getting " James" away quietly.

One of the heaviest defeats the Celts ever got Was 5-2 by Cliftonville, while Austin Donnelly was keeping goal for the Reds.


At the age of seventeen, Steve Mulholland was considered to be one of the finest forwards in Ireland, by a prominent cross-channel judge, especially in his first International.


Barring William Foulkes, the goalkeeper of Sheffield United, the late Frank Toal, the Belfast Celts centre half, was the heaviest player ever played lootball.


It was quite a common thing for the late Jimmy Cormor to walk to Celtic Park from Downpatrick, "play a blinder," and then walk back again, and he was "some player."


The late Jimmy McInerney was a Director of Belfast Celtic, and one of the most fearless writers that ever put pencill to paper. He was particularly fond of the I.F.A. He died on the 17th Sept., 1923. " Tempus Fugit."


There are only three of the first nine members of Belfast Celtic in Belfast, viz.: Harry Laverty, James Crummie, and Frank Laverty.


One of the Celts greatest friends in their Junior days was Mr. Hugh Fitzpatrick, who stood by the young Celts through thick and thin.


Billy Pollock, one of the most loyal and wholehearted players any Club ever. had, seems to have the spirit of "bucking up" when things are not going too well, especially during the present season he has been most consistent.


If ever a player deserved well of a Club it is Bertie Fulton. As a back, he has few equals and certainly no superiors in Irish League football. His play this season has been a revelation, full of fire and life, and enthusing to his partners, sure in his tackling, and places with rare judgment.


Never in the history of football have two brothers played so long and consistently together as Stanley and Jackie Mahood. Since leaving Dunmurry, they have been the most consistent and reliable pair in Irish football, for the past four years. Often have they turned possible defeat into glorious victories. Jackie has had the honour of representing his country on a number of occasions, and has never once let us down. They can always rise to the occasion.


Trainer Joe DevIin looks after his boys like a "hen after her chicks," and what he does not know about "repairing damaged legs on the shortest possible notice," is hardly worth enquiring about. Deeds, not words, are his motto. The players swear by him, and woe betide the man (or woman) who would speak disrespectfully of our Joe.


It is not generally known that Secretary Bob Barr is the proud possessor of about 200 prizes for cycle racing, and amongst them is a 20 miles Championship of Ireland, won in Phoenix Park a "wheen" of years ago.


The " mystery man" of the team, Sammy Moore, the smiling Derry lad, has provided a problem for aIl who has seen him play. "How does he stick the pace?" From whistle to whistle Sam is going, gets many a knock, but goes on, never thinking of giving one back. In the words of Austin Donnelly, "when an amateur, he was a genuine amateur; he would not even accept his tram fares."


   

P

W

D

L

For

Agt.

Pts

1914 and 15

Champions

14

10

1

3

24

7

23

1915 to 18

Did not compete

             

1918 and 19

Champions

11

8

2

1

16

7

17

1919 and 20

Champions

14

10

1

3

27

6

23

1920 to 24

Did not compete

             

1924 and 25

Third

22

11

6

5

36

31

27

1925 and 26

Champions

22

16

5

1

52

38

33

1926 and 27

Champions

22

15

0

7

66

26

37

1927 and 28

Champions

26

20

1

5

101

35

45

1928 and 29

Champions

26

22

0

4

116

23

48

Summary

 

157

112

16

29

438

173

253


The defeat of Belfast Celtic by Ballymena in the Irish Cup final was a big blow to the Celts loyal band of supporters. Still it cannot be expected for the Celts to win all the time, as the strain of winning the League Championship without a defeat must have told on the players. However, the Cup has been won by Ballymena, and the hearty congratulations from all football followers goes out to them.


Jack Diffen, goalkeeper, for his inches, the pluckiest lad that ever pulled on a glove. The goal average during the past four years proves conclusively his sterling worth. It is admitted, by even his opponents, that when the boys in front of him were a bit groggy, Jack was sure to fill the breach to perfection. Even in his Junior days he recognized the best goalie we had, and has been honoured by the I.F.A.


Bob Ferguson, "Surefoot", one of the steadiest backs in Irish football. In fact, not a few cross-channel clubs, angled for him, bit Bob preferred "The Park." Has not been enjoying the best of health this season but now that he is back, the weak spot in the rear line should immediately disappear.


Paddy Gallagher, the speediest man of the lot, and takes some stopping either on the right or centre. A terror to goalies either in shooting or bundling them through, ball and all. He should represent his country in the near future - has all the qualifications, big, young and speedy.


Keiller M'Cullough, the possessor of fine footwork, and manipulates plenty of openings. Quiet and unassuming, is a favourite at the Park, and should be seen more often next season. Enquiries have been made from across the channel, but Mac is satisfied where he is.


Eddy McIlwaine, from Linfield Rangers, has proved his worth as a defender in the few matches he has played, and with the confidence gained as a Junior International, he should develop a real, robust, tactical defender.


Celtic's Irish Cup team which lost to Shelbourne was - Haddock, McClelland, Pinkerton, Connor, Nicholl, Gall, Mulholland, Runnigan, Maguire, DevIin.


Stan Mahood made the I.F.A. sit up over the famous Blackpool protest, when he was suspended. After seeing his Solicitor, who communicated with the I.F.A., who, as usual, pulled in their horns and he was reinstated at once.


The gates at Celtic Park in the season 1901 and 2 totalled £529 18s. 1d., less £42 12s. 2d. paid to other clubs. In the season finishing May this year the gates totalled £6,370 3s. 10d., less £2,115 16s. 9d. paid to other clubs. A bit of a contrast!


It was the famous Jack Henderson, the official handicapper to the I.C.A. and I.A.A.A. that recommended Belfast Celtic to take the present grounds, and he was not a bad judge.


Sam Curran played his first match for Belfast Celtic against Glenavon on Aug. 22nd, 1925, when the Celts were beaten 1-0.


In 1902 and 3, won the Steel Cup, beating Glentoran II, 3-1; gate £574. Finished last in City Cup, but beat Linfield in the last match by 2-1. Team that season – Mehaffey, Mullan, Nelson, Smyth, Devlin, M'Intosh, Doyle, Crone, Crowe, Marshall and Thomas.


1918 and 19, won Belfast and District League. The team beat Linfield 1-0 (after test match); gate £589. Dan McKinney scored. Team – Scott, Mulligan, Barrett, Hunter, Hamill, Norwood, Kerr, Wishart, McKinney, Ferris, Frazer. 

C. A. Shield Final, lost to Distillery 1-0, after a drawn game.


The Irish Cup team that beat the Blues (1919-20) by 2-1 in the first round at Windsor Park, and in the Irish Cup semi-final with Glentoran at Cliftonville on Wednesday, 17th March, 1920 – B. Mehaffey, M'Dade, Barrett, Mulligan, Hamill, Carroll, Kelly, Norwood, Chambers, Bell and Topping – 0-0.

Barrett was ordered off for tripping Gowdy and suspended for the season. The crowd broke on the field. Referee M'Clean raced for the Pavilion, and match was abandoned ten minutes to go.


1924 and 5 Lost to Glentoran, Shield final 2-1. Gate, £586. Team - Doherty, Bruce, Ferguson, Pollock, Kirkwood, M'Dowell, Clarke, Moore, A. Smyth, Ferris, and J. Mahood. Referee, Sam Thompson.

Again Glentoran won the Charity final, 2-1. Team: Doherty, Ferguson, Fulton, Moore, Kirkwood, Pollock, Clarke, Ferris, Kinsella, S. Mahood, J. Mahood. Referee – J. B. Stark.

Finished third in the League.


1925 and 26 – A wonderful season. Won the Irish League Championship, City Cup, Irish Cup, Charity Cup, Gold Cup.

 

P

W

L

D

Gls. for

Agt.

Pts

Irish League

22

16

5

1

52

38

33

City Cup

11

8

2

1

32

18

17

*Charity Cup

3

2

0

1

7

3

 

Gold Cup

4

4

0

0

11

5

 
               

*Joint holders with Glentoran

Sam Curran scored 51 goals in the above and 6 in representative matches.

Beat Linfield 3-2 in Irish Cup Final. Gate £750. Curran scored all three goals.

Travelled to Dublin and won the All-Ireland League Championship, the first time for a North team, beating Shelbourne well by 4-2. Admittedly the best team won.

Cliftoriville in the Gold Cup Final 3-0. Gate £512.

For the season 137 goals for and 72 against. Team - Fitzmaurice, Scott, Ferguson, Pollock, Moore, Perry, M'Grillen, Ferris, Curran, S. Mahood, and J. Mahood.

In the season 1926 and 1927 the lrish League Championship was won for the third time in succession and City Cup winners. Lost to Linfield in the Gold Cup Final 3-2, and in the Charity Cup Final by 4-0

 

P

W

L

D

Gls.for

Agt

Pts

Irish League

22

15

0

7

66

26

37

City Cup

11

8

2

1

32

16

17

Shield

4

4

0

0

14

5

 

Beat Shamrock Rovers 2-0 Championship in Dublin. Team - Diffen, Scott, Ferguson, Moore, Hamill, Inch, M'Grillen, Ferris, Curran, Mahood and Mahood.