Jim Smith (born 1863)
Jim Smith was an association footballer who played in the 1890 FA Cup final for Sheffield Wednesday.
Career
Smith, whose real surname was Clarke, started work at the Atlas & Norfolk Steel Works – originally operating in the crucible room – when he was 11 years old; he worked there for 58 years.His playing career was entirely with Sheffield Wednesday, and was the first choice goalkeeper from 1884 to 1891. The highlight – and lowlight – of his career was appearing for the club in the 1889–90 FA Cup final. As a full-time employee and part-time footballer, Smith (along with Tom Cawley) was unable to take part in the special training for the latter stages of the competition, He proved a stellar choice in the 2–1 semi-final win over Bolton Wanderers with one particular save just before half-time being noted, and the goal against him having a suspicion of offside.The final however was a different matter. Captain Henry Winterbottom could not play because of injury, and forward Billy Ingram was not at full fitness; opponents Blackburn Rovers took full advantage, going 4–0 up before half-time and winn