Freeman Delamotte was a popular member of the St Mary’s team in the days when winning various Hampshire Cups was the main priority, although he did get to play – and score – in the Saints’ first two FA Cup ties in 1891-92. Those were the days for bustling forwards, who were free to close in on a goalkeeper as he went catch the ball.

“Go for him, Delly” was an often-heard cry from the Antelope Ground spectators

and his aggression earned him plenty of goals. After a brief spell with Derby County on trial, he returned to gain county representative honours, in 1892, against both the Corinthians and Surrey. He left, the following year, for North Wales, to become the Borough Surveyor in Conway. In that capacity he is credited with designing the tanks used in the fledgling mussel purification systems that were developed in 1913. He maintained an interest in sport throughout his life.