Legendary Derry City striker Mark Farren’s name will live on in a cup named after him
FIRST, Derry City announced that it will name a new stand at the Brandywell in memory of legendary striker Mark Farren after he died this year from an aggressive brain tumour.
Now the footballing powers-that-be in Ireland intend to make sure that his name is never forgotten by the younger generations trying to emulate his goal scoring prowess.
For the SSE Airtricity League has announced the naming of a new cup in honour of Mark.
The League is recognising his huge contribution to the game by naming the U17 Mark Farren Memorial Cup after him.
The record Derry City goal scorer’s death touched the world of football in March.
BBC Match of the Day host Gary Lineker – a formidable striker for Leicester City and England – tweeted on hearing of his death in March ‘MARK FARREN RIP’ to the thousands of his Twitter followers.
It was fitting tribute from one legendary striker recognising the talents of another striker whose life was so cruelly cut short at an early age.
And last month his former club Glenavon invited his widow Terri Louise to lead the team out at the Irish Cup Final in Belfast.
Announcing the decision, FAI director of competitions Fran Gavin said: “It’s a fitting way to commemorate Mark’s memory.
“All young players should aspire to have a career and conduct themselves in the same manner he did.
“He was a great player as well as being a great person.”
The SSE Airtricity U17 Mark Farren Memorial Cup First Round draw is:
Sligo Rovers v Longford Town
Mervue United v Athlone Town
UCD v St Patrick’s Athletic
Drogheda united v Monaghan Cavan FP
Dundalk v Cabinteely
Kerry League v Limerick FC
Bray Wanderers v Wexford Youths
The teams who received byes into the next round are: Bohemians, Cobh Ramblers, Cork City, Derry City, Finn Harps, Salthill Devon, Shamrock Rovers, Shelbourne, Waterford United
These ties will take place on Tuesday, June 28, and Wednesday, June 29.