Career
Connolly, born in Newcastle-under-Lyme, joined Crewe Alexandra in 1960, making nine appearances and scoring three goals in his time with the club He moved into non-league football with Macclesfield Town before signing for Colchester United for £1,200 in 1964. During the 1964-1965 season, Connolly made 21 appearances, scoring seven goals.
He made his debut on 22 August in a 1–0 defeat at Layer Road to Carlisle United and scored his first goal on 26 October in a 1–1 home draw with Workington.
Connolly later played for non-league teams Altrincham, Northwich Victoria and Winsford United after his Colchester exit in the summer of 1965.