Eric Barber, renowned Irish footballer of the sixties and seventies passed away on August 20, 2014.
Eric and his wife Maureen had recently retired to Boston from their longtime family home in Tallaght Dublin, to be with their family; who have lived here for many years.
A fine striker, he began his career with St Finbarr's before moving to Shelbourne with whom he won the FAI Youth Cup in 1959. He wasn't long graduating to the first team, and in the following season, 1959-60, Eric scored in every round as a young Shelbourne team went all the way to the FAI Cup final in which they defeated Cork Hibernians 2-0.
In 1961-62, his goals helped Shelbourne go to the League title, and a losing FAI Cup final appearance. A second cup winner's medal followed for Eric in 1963 when Shelbourne beat Cork Hibernians again in the decider. Eric was a prolific striker, and scored 142 goals in the League of Ireland, Eric’s record of 126 goals for Shelbourne is unlikely to ever be exceeded.
After brief stints with other clubs including Birmingham City, Chicago, Kansas and Shamrock Rovers, Eric returned to the team he loved, Shelbourne to finish his illustrious career. He was capped twice for the Republic of Ireland, and he represented the League of Ireland three times. He played against the greats of that era, notably Pele in 1968 when Kansas played Santos. Number 9 will be sadly missed by lovers of the beautiful game. Eric’s determination and competitive spirit was evident right to the final whistle.
Eric’s passing is deeply regretted by his loving family, wife Maureen, son Malcolm, daughters Tanya, Erica and Nadia, daughter in-law Geraldine, son in-laws Paul and Chris, grandchildren Erik, Brooke, Michael, Heidi and Ellareen.
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