Never forgotten.
The names of certain footballers will forever be remembered by League of Ireland fans – players like Brendan Bradley, Liam Coyle, Pat Morley, Jackie Jameson and lots more come to mind – and you can add the name of Derry City’s all-time top scorer Mark Farren to this very esteemed list.
The Donegal native sadly passed away last month after a remarkably brave battle with cancer and you may have seen the wonderful tributes that were paid to him last Friday during the local derby between Finn Harps and Derry City.
Farren played for Finn Harps, Monaghan United and Glenavon but it was at the Brandywell were he truly shone, scoring 114 times in a prolific spell with the club.
Kenny Shiels’ side are playing their first home game of the season against Cork City tonight and both sets of fans paid a fitting tribute to an absolute legend of Irish football and a true local hero.
Derry City F.C. retire the late Mark Farren's No #18 jersey before tonight's game at Brandywell v Cork City F.C. pic.twitter.com/tlC46KHHQV
— Mr S. (@danesfortman) March 11, 2016
18th minute and we have a minute’s applause for Mark Farren #farren18 #rawa #DCvCC
— Derry City FC (@derrycityfc) March 11, 2016
While footage hasn’t emerged of the whole minute’s applause, Cork City’s Twitter team managed to capture a small flavour of the incredibly touching scenes at the Brandywell.
Minute's applause on 18 minutes in memory of Mark Farren #CCFC84 @derrycityfc pic.twitter.com/EUEqajShOc
— Cork City FC (@CorkCityFC) March 11, 2016
Would like to give a huge shout out to @CorkCityFC & there fans for a great geasture during the 1 minutes applause for Mark Farren.
— Derry City FC (@DCFCLiveupdates) March 11, 2016
If you’ve a few minutes to spare then take a look at some of his best moments on the pitch.
Clip via – Tony McBride