Tommy O'Connor

Who was Tommy O'Connor?

Thomas O'Connor, also known as Tommy O'Connor or Tom O'Connor, was an Irish footballer who played for Shamrock Rovers. On 21 September 1949, together with Con Martin, Johnny Carey and Peter Farrell, he was also a member of the Ireland team that defeated England 2–0 at Goodison Park, becoming the first non-UK team to beat England at home.

O'Connor first attracted attention while playing for Shamrock Rovers in the early part of the 1948-49 season. His impressive performances for Rovers led him to making four appearances for Ireland in 1949. He made his international debut on 8 September 1949 in a 3-0 win against Finland at Dalymount Park. The game was a 1950 World Cup qualifier and O'Connor put in an impressive performance, helping the Irish win 3-0.

O'Connor was preferred over both Tommy Eglington and Jackie O'Driscoll for the game against England. This proved an astute selection as O'Connor set up both of the Irish goals. Ireland took the lead in the 33rd minute when Peter Desmond, after collecting a pass from O'Connor, was brought down in the penalty area; Con Martin converted the subsequent penalty kick.