Noel Gerard Ward (born 8 December 1952) is a Northern Irish former footballer who played as a defender.
Born in Donemana, County Tyrone, Ward started his career at Derry City, helping the club reach the final of the 1970–71 Irish Cup, but were ultimately defeated 3-0 by Distillery. Following Derry's withdrawal from the Irish league, Ward moved to Portadown in 1972. He played in the 1972–73 Gold Cup final, which Portadown lost 2–0 against Linfield.
Ward joined Aberdeen in 1974, but made only seven first team appearances in two seasons for the club. He signed for Wigan Athletic in 1976, making over 100 appearances for the club, and helping Wigan gain election to the Football League in 1978. In 1979, Ward broke his leg in a match against Portsmouth, an injury which prematurely ended his career. In 1982, he was awarded a testimonial match by Wigan, which was played against Chelsea.
Career statistics + Appearances and goals by club, season and competitionClubSeasonLeagueNational CupLeague CupOtherTotalDivisionAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAberdeen1974–75Division One50000000501975–76Premier Division2000000020Total7000000070Wigan Athletic1976–77Northern Premier League4224221977–78Northern Premier League4454451978–79Fourth Division4442020004841979–80Fourth Division4000200060Total1341120400014011Career total50919820103516219585233
References
External links Profile at NIFG