Carlisle United are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player Tommy Murray, who has died at the age of 82.
Tommy Murray joined Carlisle United in March 1967 following Willie Carlin’s departure to Sheffield United. He made an immediate impression, setting up a goal for George McVitie on his debut at Birmingham and quickly establishing himself as an influential creative force in the side.
For the next three seasons, Tommy was an automatic choice at inside forward or occasionally on the wing as United consolidated their reputation as a strong Second Division team.
In 1969, he was part of the side that reached the semi-final of the League Cup, but it was the FA Cup that provided his most memorable moment in a Carlisle shirt. Drawn away at Newcastle in January 1968 in the Third Round, it was the Blues who produced one of the shocks of the day, winning by the only goal. The goal was a glancing header from Murray, who later remarked: “Everybody was so busy watching the big fellows that they forgot about the smallest man on the park.” That moment was no fluke - he scored 43 goals in his 150 league and cup appearances for the club.
Tommy's appearances became less frequent in the 1970/71 campaign, and in the summer of 1971 he joined Hearts in an exchange deal involving Kevin Hegarty. It marked a return to his native Scotland for Murray, who was born in Caldercruix in North Lanarkshire.
He had first come to prominence with Airdrie, finishing as the top scorer in Scottish football in 1965/66 despite being a part-timer at the time. He switched to full-time football only after arriving at Brunton Park. His spell at Hearts lasted until 1975, but he continued playing until 1979, enjoying periods in Hong Kong and Australia before returning to Scotland, where he turned out for Raith Rovers and Arbroath. After retiring from the game, he worked as a self-employed painter and decorator.
Historical details provided by David Steele of the Carlisle United Heritage Group.
Everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to Tommy's family and friends at this time. His service to Carlisle United and to the community will not be forgotten.
