Ryan McBride's tragic passing is the latest to fall upon Derry City in just over 12 months.
News emerged on Sunday evening of the 27-year-old's death. Derry's captain played as recently as Saturday afternoon in his side's 4-0 win over Drogheda United in Maginn Park.
Born in the shadow of The Brandywell, McBride once stated his dream was to play for his local team. He said he never had an interest in moving across the water.
That unreal tackle by McBride. So, so sad https://t.co/bLPWNKAzwi
— Dodge (@seidodge) March 19, 2017
Under manager Kenny Shiels, McBride has been crucial to Derry's resurgence in the past two seasons. He started all four of Derry's games this season, as the team won all of their matches.
In his 177 games for Derry, he captained the team 57 times. McBride also won two trophies with his local team. He was part of the 2011 League Cup win against Cork City, and also played in the Aviva Stadium the following year as Derry defeated St. Patrick's Athletic in the FAI Cup Final.
Flying high up in the sky we'll keep the red flag flying high 🇦🇹 pic.twitter.com/kzsTZdMvUw
— Odhran☠(@Odhran_K67) March 19, 2017
McBride's death is the latest tragedy to fall upon the club in a dark 12 months off the field for Derry City. On February 3rd last year, Mark Farren died, after a battle with cancer. The striker scored 114 goals for the club, and was Derry's leading goalscorer.
Just over a month after Farren's passing, the club were in mourning once more. Josh Daniels, a midfielder with the club, lost his mother and sister in the Buncrana pier tragedy. Daniels' brother-in-law and nephews also died.
"Along with all those who support Irish football, I express my sadness and condolences to the family of @derrycityfc Captain Ryan McBride."
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) March 20, 2017
McBride led Derry City from the defence this season, and his influence was there for all to see, as the team won their opening four matches.
Ten days ago, he scored the winner in Tallaght, as Derry defeated Shamrock Rovers 1-0.
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