JOE ELWOOD, 1939-2024 4qf6h

Glenavon is saddened to learn of the ing of its former player Joe Elwood. 5x2t3y

Joe, a Belfast man, ed the club in 1954 at the age of fourteen. In February 1956 he made his debut in an Irish Cup tie against Ards. He was a first-team regular during the 1956-57 season when Glenavon won the League and Cup double. In May 1957 he scored the third goal in the 3-1 Gold Cup Final success against Derry City.

In April 1958 Joe turned professional and a few days later was transferred to Leyton Orient for a substantial four figure fee.

A talented left-winger, he profited from the plentiful supply of possession provided by Irish international left-half Wilbur Cush.

During his four years at Mourneview Park, Elwood made 60 first-team appearances and scored 25 goals. He was an Irish schoolboy and youth international.

Joe spent eight seasons at Leyton Orient. He was part of the only O’s team to gain promotion to the First Division. In February 1965 he scored both goals in a famous 2-1 win against Newcastle United. The game was one of the first to be covered by BBC TV’s “Match of the Day” cameras. Eight months later he was Orient’s first ever substitute in a win versus Preston North End.

In 1966 Joe returned to the Irish League. He played for Ards for two seasons and, in 1969, finished his career with Distillery.

Subsequently, he returned to London where he gained employment as a P.E. teacher.

He re-connected with Leyton Orient and became a regular spectator at Brisbane Road.

Condolences are extended to the Elwood family.