IPFBA Fundraiser

An unmissable evening of football anecdotes and commentary with two Ireland/Liverpool legends

Fundraiser sponsored by Fortus, Gibneys of Malahide and FORSA

• Date: Monday, 19th October 2026
• Venue: Button Factory, Curved St., Temple Bar, Dublin D02RD26
• Kick-off: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00)
• Licensed: Full Bar Facilities

Following the success of last year’s “Three Wise Men” event, the Irish Professional Footballers Association is delighted to present Talking Reds — another special night of football stories, insight, and banter featuring a pair of legendary former Liverpool and Ireland players.

On Monday, 19th October 2026, Republic greats Ray Houghton and Mark Lawrenson will be at the intimate Button Factory venue in Dublin’s Temple Bar for a fascinating evening of anecdotes from their distinguished careers — plus sharp analysis of the current game following an absorbing World Cup.

Harry McCue, IPFBA chair, says: “We are extremely grateful to Ray and Mark for their participation and for endorsing our work supporting the welfare and wellbeing of former League of Ireland footballers.

“Both have given so much to the game both on and off the pitch, and their willingness to give back through events like this means a great deal to us and to the ex-players we support.”

Whether you’re a die-hard Liverpool supporter, an Ireland fan, or simply love great football conversation, Talking Reds promises to be another memorable occasion filled with insight, humour, and plenty of Anfield and international memories.

PROFILES

Ray Houghton

Born in Glasgow in 1962 to Irish parents, Ray enjoyed a highly successful playing career that later flourished into one of Irish football’s most recognisable punditry voices.

A hard-working, intelligent midfielder with excellent technique and goal-scoring ability, he began his career in England with West Ham United and Fulham before excelling at Oxford United.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish signed him for £825,000 in 1987, where he quickly became a vital part of a title-winning side.

At Anfield, Ray won two League titles (1988 and 1990), two FA Cups, and made over 200 appearances. He later enjoyed successful spells at Aston Villa, where he won the League Cup in 1994, and Crystal Palace, before further stints at Reading and Stevenage Borough.

First capped by Jack Charlton while with Oxford, as a 73-time Republic of Ireland international, Ray earned national hero status thanks to his iconic winning goals against England at Euro 88 and versus Italy in Giants Stadium at USA 94.

After hanging up his boots in 1997, he transitioned into the media and has become a regular analyst and co-commentator for RTÉ Sport, covering Premier League, Champions League, and major international tournaments.

He has also contributed to Talksport, Sky Sports, and worked as a consultant on the Football Manager video game series. Known for his insightful analysis and engaging delivery, Ray brings deep tactical understanding and first-hand experience to the microphone.

Mark Lawrenson

Born in Preston, England, in 1957, Mark enjoyed a highly successful playing career that established him as one of the finest defenders of his generation before transitioning into one of football’s most recognisable pundits.

A composed, versatile, and intelligent centre-back (who could also play left-back or midfield), he began at Preston North End before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion.

In 1981, Liverpool paid a near-£1 million fee to bring him to Anfield. On Merseyside, Mark formed a formidable defensive partnership with Alan Hansen and became a cornerstone of the dominant 1980s side.

He won five First Division titles, three League Cups, the 1984 European Cup, and the 1986 FA Cup during his time at the club, making over 350 appearances.

Capped 39 times by the Republic (qualifying through his Waterford grandfather), Mark was a key figure in both defence and midfield as Ireland made a long-awaited breakthrough to qualify for Euro 88 – not least his crucial winning goal away to Scotland in February ’87.

Sadly, a ruptured Achilles tendon the following month ruled him out of the finals and ultimately led to his early retirement.

Mark moved swiftly into the media, becoming a sharp, articulate pundit and co-commentator. He enjoyed a long and prominent career with the BBC on Match of the Day, Football Focus, and major international tournaments, often alongside his former teammate Hansen.

Known for his dry wit, tactical insight, and no-nonsense opinions, Mark has also worked for Irish broadcasters such as Today FM and written columns for the Irish Times.

He retired from regular broadcasting in 2022 but remains a respected voice in football, celebrated for both his elegant playing style and his decades of informed analysis.

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Compères

Nathan Murphy and Barry Murphy, who were so engaging at last year’s Three Wise Men show, make a brilliant double‑act as comperes because they come from two very different corners of Irish broadcasting — one steeped in sharp, informed sports journalism, the other in pitch‑perfect satire. Together they bring authority, humour and real warmth.

Managing Editor of Today FM and a long-time leading voice in Irish sports broadcasting, Nathan is best known for his work on Off The Ball, where his interviews, match analysis and long‑form conversations have become staples for football fans. He’s a meticulous researcher with a calm, incisive delivery — the kind of broadcaster players trust and listeners rely on. Nathan’s style blends journalistic rigour with an easy, conversational tone, making him an ideal host for nights built around storytelling, insight and proper football chat.

Barry is one of Ireland’s most recognisable comedic performers, co‑founder of the immortal Après Match and a master of character work, parody and quick‑fire improvisation. His send‑ups of pundits, managers and commentators are part of Irish football culture at this stage. Barry brings sharp wit, impeccable timing and a performer’s instinct for reading a room — the perfect counterbalance to straight football analysis.