Philip Matthews |
PHILIP MATTHEWS
Philip Matthews has the unique distinction of being the first Ardsman awarded
a cap while directly and exclusively an Ards player. His selection to play for
Ireland against Australia in December 1984 is a notable milestone in the Ards
story.
Philip was an outstanding schoolboy player while at Regent House. In his final
two years at school he played for Ireland Schoolboys five times, three of them
as captain. On leaving school he entered Queen's University where he featured
on a very successful varsity side which also included Ards and Regent compatriots
Nigel Carr, Brian Iveston and the Moles brothers, Ian and Alistair. He was an
established interprovincial player when he joined Ards for whom he played in
their first Senior Cup success in 1984/85. Philip moved to Dublin for business
and domestic reasons continuing his playing with Wanderers. In a glorious International
career Philip gained 38 caps with a number of them as captain.
Philip's dulcet Dublin tones can be heard on BBC television as co-commentator on Ireland internationals.