Fir Park played host to a special homecoming as legendary “Ancell Babe” Pat Delaney returned for the Steelmen’s clash against Dundee on Saturday 19th October. Pat was welcomed by Motherwell FC Chief Executive Brian Caldwell, the MFC Former Players Club, and the Heritage Group.
A popular and key figure in Motherwell’s history, Pat made his first-team debut at just 18 against St Mirren on September 19, 1959. Initially a centre-forward, manager Bobby Ancell converted him into a versatile defender, where he would make a lasting impact.
During his seven-year stint at Fir Park, Pat Delaney made 229 appearances in claret and amber, scoring an impressive 40 goals. His most memorable strike came from a stunning free-kick in a 5-2 Scottish Cup win at Ibrox. However, his crowning moment came in the 1965 Summer Cup run, where he netted eight goals in 10 matches, including two in the final against Dundee United, securing the Steelmen’s silverware.
Heritage interview with Pat Delaney at his Cushendall home, July 2023
Celebrating Legends
Brian Caldwell emphasised the importance of celebrating legends like Pat Delaney, not just for their on-field contributions, but for their embodiment of the club’s spirit and values. The collaboration with the Heritage Group and the MFC Former Players Club ensured that the event highlighted the significance of Motherwell’s heritage, bridging the past and present.
Joining Pat for Saturday’s game were former players Dougie Hope (1963-1965), Davie Main (1970-1972), and Cammy Murray (1972- 1973) who returned as assistant reserve coach (1978-1980) then reserve and first team coach (1984-1994), a member of Tommy McLean’s Scottish Cup winning coaching staff.
For the Heritage Group, Club Historian Stuart Graham and Nick Mackie were reunited with a legend having met with Pat at his Northern Ireland home last year.
Pat Delaney’s return to Fir Park was a fitting tribute to a true club hero whose legacy, along with his 40 goals and unforgettable Summer Cup triumph, remains etched in Motherwell’s proud history.
