‘Baz’ opens his testimonial year in Da Vinci’s next week

And Derry City’s 30-year-old midfield general, whose 10 years loyalty to his home town club is unquestionable, is expected to be well supported.

The evening, which involves Roulette and Card Games, will get underway from 10pm with Derry City Directors, management team and players in attendance at the function.

Tickets, which are available from members of Molloy’s Testimonial Committee, from the Derry City Social Club or in the “Candy Stripes” Store inside Brandywell Stadium, are priced at £10 but those wishing to pay at the door on the night may do so.

Having now kicked-off his 10th season with his home town club, Molloy joined the “Candy Stripes” from Drogheda United prior to the 2004 campaign and was one of then manager, Stephen Kenny’s first signings.

He had initially left Derry as a teenager having signed a contract with Derby County.

Since his return home, he has made 322 competitive appearances and has captained Derry City on 76 occasions.

He made his debut during a League Cup victory over the Mayo League in 2004 and his prominent performances in Derry’s midfield are legendary.

During his Brandywell career, Molloy has won five League Cup medals; two FAI Cup medals and a First Division winner’s medal so, no doubt, his priority is now to secure a Premier Division title with the ‘Candy Stripes’.

“It would be fantastic to be in a position to secure the full set with a Championship win and I certainly haven’t given up on that,” said the midfielder this week.

“We’re taking nothing for granted but it really would be great to win the league title in my testimonial season,” he added.

When asked for the highlights of his Derry career, Molloy pointed to the recent victory over St. Pat’s when claiming the FAI Cup in the Aviva Stadium in 2012.

“We didn’t have a great season in 2012, but the cup final was a superb experience for me. My children were there watching me play and they were also on the pitch with me after the final whistle, so that was very special.

“Our UEFA Cup run in 2006 was also brilliant, as we defeated Gothenburg and Gretna before losing out to Paris St. Germain but, hopefully, I will have more memorable times before I decide to hang up the boots,” he laughed.