Francis O'Hara

O'Hara began his footballing career in his native Scotland with both Strathclyde and Albion Rovers before a move to English side Chelsea in August 1905.[1] He played for one season with Chelsea, playing once in the league, and twice in the FA Cup, where he scored three goals.[1] He returned to Albion Rovers in the summer of 1906, before going on to play for Wigan Town, Birmingham City, Pendlebury and Royal Albert.[1]

O'Hara signed up for the army in December 1899, lying about his age and joining the Highland Light Infantry.[1][2] He served in South Africa and Egypt, serving until late 1904, but remaining a reservist until 1913.[1] At the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, O'Hara reenlisted in the Highland Light Infantry, and was killed in action only a year later, on 12 July 1915, in the Gallipoli Campaign.[1]

He was commemorated in Chelsea's Roll of Honour on Armistice Day 2021.[2]

O'Hara assaulted a police officer in Fulham on 24 April 1906, and after failing to appear at a summons, he was arrested in his hometown of Coatbridge, Scotland, and brought back to London on 29 September 1906. He was quoted as saying "I am very sorry, but I am glad the bottle did not hit you", and was ordered to pay 10 shillings or spend one day in prison.[1]