One for Bladds

[Scoular1]

Lindy Delepenha has passed away aged 89.
I never saw him,but I guess you did.

[Scoular1]

Lindy Delepenha has passed away aged 89.
I never saw him,but I guess you did.

After turning down a chance to represent Great Britain at the 1948 London Olympics, Delaphenha was spotted playing for the army. After completing his national service and returning to England, Lindy travelled to Portsmouth for a trial. He performed well, and was signed on at half time.

Delapenha was with Portsmouth when they won back-to-back league titles 1948-49 and 1949-50 – the most successful period in the club’s history. Still, Delapenha struggled to break in to Pompey’s greatest-ever side, which contained more experienced players, and he endured an injury-plagued two seasons at Fratton Park. He was restricted to just seven appearances and scored just one goal. After not making enough starts in his first season, Delapenha picked up a medal after his second for the games he played for the championship-winning side. He was the first black player to do so.

[BlueAdder]

Yes I did see Delapenha on several occasions. I'm going to dig out my old autograph book tomorrow, can't believe I haven't got him.