No 127: McGarry scores on All Whites debut (1986)
You might suggest Mike McGarry's timing was a little unfortunate.
He was only 17 and his career was just starting in 1982, when New Zealand football's most famous side was on its extraordinary World Cup journey.
And by 2010, when Ryan Nelsen's men shocked the world by getting three draws in South Africa, McGarry was 45, still playing every Saturday but possibly taking longer to recover from the bumps and bruises.
But there were no regrets in 1998 when McGarry ended his football career - at least the international component.
He had been one of the great unsung heroes in an All Whites shirt, and his consistency, creativity and professionalism were appreciated by coaches and fans alike.
McGarry made his debut in Lautoka in September 1986, scoring in a 4-2 win over Fiji that also featured two goals from present All Whites coach Ricki Herbert.
McGarry belted a hat-trick against Samoa a year later, and in 1988 scored five goals in six internationals.
By the end of his All Whites career, he had scored 12 goals in 54 full internationals, and made 87 appearances and had 24 goals in all.
McGarry also contributed to other areas - he made two Chatham Cup finals with Christchurch United - being named most valuable player each time - and also played in Australia. However, but he is considered Otago football's favourite son.
McGarry teaches at Otago Boys' High School and is still a player-coach for the Mosgiel club.
