Renowned Rugby Hero Dies—But His Legacy Lives On

Tributes have been paid after the peaceful death of an Oldham rugby legend.

Martin Murphy died on Saturday January 17 at the age of 77. He leaves behind his distraught wife Anne and daughter Martina.

In a statement, the family said they want to honour the Leigh-born sportsman whose life as a rugby player stands as a “testament to commitment, humility, and unwavering service.”

After being signed up in early December 1966, he devoted 16 seasons (1966–1982) to the Oldham Rugby League Football Club (RLFC), making an amazing 462 first-team appearances.  He was Oldham RLFC captain and played as an England international. His career spanned three decades.

Items linked to Murphy and other greats of the Roughyeds feature in the 150 Years of Oldham Rugby League Football Club exhibition at Gallery Oldham, which celebrates the club’s remarkable history and preserves the legacy of players like Murphy for future generations.

His family said: “Oldham is a town built on loyalty — to place, to people, to purpose.

“In an era defined by grit and loyalty, he became a constant—trusted, resilient, and deeply respected. 

“He captained Oldham during the club’s centenary season in 1976–77, a role that reflected not just his ability, but his values.”

A natural full-back, Murphy was known for his “calm authority, fearless defence, and total reliability,” the statement said.

Inducted into the Oldham Rugby League Hall of Fame, Murphy will be remembered not simply for records or accolades, but for something rarer: “unwavering loyalty.” 

He is widely regarded as the last great club man—a player whose life mirrored the steadfast spirit of the town he served.  

A player with immense courage, he went on to become the leading post war appearance maker for the club and played in every position in the back division.

His excellence was recognised beyond the club. He represented Lancashire, and in 1975 earned international honours with England, scoring a dramatic last-minute winning try against France in Perpignan. 

The statement continued: “The family would like to thank friends, former teammates, and the wider Oldham rugby league community for their kindness, respect, and messages of support at this time.”

In a Facebook statement, Oldham RLFC, said: “He is remembered not only for his achievements on the field, but for the lasting personal impact he had on teammates, supporters, and all who knew him.

“Our thoughts are with the (family), friends and loved ones…at this difficult time.”

Murphy’s family added that: “Donations, if desired, may be made to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, in recognition of their compassionate care and support.”