He had the distinction of being the first player to be signed by the Boston Bolts franchise as one of their three foreign players.[citation needed] In 1988 at Nickerson Field, Boston University, Irwin scored the winning goal for the Boston Bolts against the Orlando Lions by converting a penalty kick against fellow Scotsman and Orlando goalkeeper Alan Rough in extra time.[3] This was the team's first home game of the season and their first win following three defeats.[3]
During the 1988–89 season as sweeper and vice captain[citation needed] of the Boston Bolts, Irwin was selected as the only Boston player to the American Soccer League (ASL) All Star Team.[4] He was one of two Scotsmen on the All Star team, being joined by former Scotland national team goalkeeper Alan Rough. The All Star team played against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with George Best making a guest appearance for the Strikers.
