In memory of Michael Newberry

A year on from his tragic loss, Cliftonville Football Club remembers Michael Newberry.

It was 12 months ago today, on what was his 27th birthday, that we were devastated by the death of the defender, who was a popular and much loved figure amongst Reds team-mates, who proudly dedicated their subsequent BetMcLean Cup Final success to his memory.

Our supporters were likewise shaken and saddened by news of his loss, with the home turnstiles at Solitude quickly adorned with scarves, shirts, candles, flowers and notes in tribute to his life and career.

Last Friday’s North Belfast Derby marked a year since his final appearance for the Club, with both sets of players and supporters observing a minute’s applause in acknowledgment of the solemn occasion, while Sunday saw the Michael Newberry CSC host both a sponsored walk and 9aSide tournament to raise funds for Action Mental Health and TAMHI in his honour.

On this most difficult of anniversaries, our thoughts are very much with Michael’s family and wide circle of friends who can rest assured that, while Newbs was only with us for a short time, the significance of the impact he had on team-mates and supporters alike will not be forgotten.

We know that Newcastle United remained his one true footballing love and that he enjoyed great times across the city with Linfield prior to signing up at Solitude, but the old adage of ‘Once a Red, always a Red’ will certainly ring true of a player we were proud to welcome into the Cliftonville family forevermore.