Last weekend we learned of the passing of former Glentoran player, Jim Lewis. Described in Roy France's book as a utility player, Jim featured mainly as a full back or half back. He made his debut in the 1948-49 season and went on to make 158 appearances for the Glens, including playing in the 'Back to the Oval' game against Linfield and the three epic Irish Cup final games against Derry City in 1954; Jim being named 'Man of the Match' in the second match. By the time Jim Lewis finished at the Oval at the end of the 1955-56 season he'd scored 14 goals.
The 1950/51 season was one of the greatest in Glentoran's illustrious history and Jim Lewis was part of the squad that won the Irish League, Irish Cup, Ulster Cup and the City Cup. 1953/54 was his finest season personally with 56 appearances and 8 goals, culminating in that Irish Cup final, watched by 93,285 over the 3 games).
Jim Lewis died (suddenly) on September 28, 2013. Everyone at Glentoran FC extends their deepest sympathy to Jim's wife, Shirley, his three daughters, Deborah, Anne & Lorraine and the whole family circle.
1953-54 Back Row (L to R) Murdough, Neill, Bond, Hughes, King & Lewis
Front Row (L to R) Cunningham, Scott, McCarthy, Chapman & Deakin.
Inserts - Feeney & Lowry