William Murphy has achieved everything in his Linfield career but even he
must have been left stunned by the events at Windsor Park on Saturday.
Murphy, who was rewarded for 11 trophy-laden years of loyal service with a
testimonial against a Rangers XI at the weekend, must have rubbed his eyes
in disbelief.
Was it because of Paul McKnight's outragous lob from the half-way line? No.
Was it after giving the Windsor faithful their biggest cheer of the day when
he scored the Blues' fifth and final goal? No, try again.
The most astonishing sight of the day for the players and supporters was
Linfield kit manager Gary Eccles turning his hand to the art of goalkeeping!
But Alan Mannus need not worry — well, except for the state of his shirt
come the start of next season, according to the star of the show, Murphy.
"I'm sure Alan will need to get a new shirt after big Gary wore it but
it all added to what was a great day," said Murphy.
"I still can't believe I've been at the Blues for this long but there
is no way I want to give up now.
"After winning three doubles on the trot, I am hungry for more and I
want to be at this club for as long as the manager will have me.
"I've had some incredible days but Saturday was very special for lots
of reasons.
"To see that many people come out and pay good money for me was
something else.
"The Rangers team also gave up their time to be there and I feel
priviledged that they came.
"Scoring a goal was great too but it wasn't that sort of day.
"I wanted everyone to have a bit of fun and hopefully they did."
Murphy also took time out to thank everyone connected with his testimonial
year.
He added: "A lot of hard work has been done behind the scenes to make
things possible and I want to say how grateful I am.
"It's been a long, hard road but after playing aginst some of my heroes
in the Rangers team, it has all been worthwhile.
"Now I'll enjoy the summer and hopefully get back to pre-season
training and get ready to retain our trophies and, with any luck, add to
them."
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