1976 Moran won the Universities Championship when he scored the winner for the Irish Universities against their Scottish counterparts Moran started playing as a full back with Bohemians F.C. and then Pegasus. He was spotted by Billy Behan, a Manchester United scout, who reported to United manager Dave Sexton, and Moran signed for Manchester United in February 1978. He made his senior debut on 20 April 1979 against Southampton, and was a regular player in the first team by the time Ron Atkinson had succeeded Sexton as manager in June 1981. Despite not being the tallest of defenders, Kevin was known for his strong aerial ability and was a threat in the box from corners and set pieces. Playing as a centre back, he won FA Cup medals with the club in 1983 and 1985. Moran is notable for having been sent off in the 1985 FA Cup Final against Everton, the first player ever to be sent off in an FA Cup final. YouTube videos reveal that he was the last defender when he brought down Peter Reid with a two-footed foul tackle, without playing the ball. He was later presented with the winner's medal that had at first been withheld. After 10 years with United, Moran left Old Trafford as a 32-year-old in the summer of 1988, having played his final 18 months at the club under the management of Alex Ferguson. His first team opportunities had been limited since the arrival of Steve Bruce in December 1987. He transferred to Sporting Gijón, where he remained for two seasons, making 33 appearances without scoring. During his time at Sporting Gijón, Moran roomed with promising youngster and future Real Madrid and Barcelona star Luis Enrique. While with the Spanish side he was named as the Senior International Player of the Year at the inaugural FAI International Football Awards in 1989. In 1990, he returned to England to join Second Division Blackburn Rovers. He was an automatic choice in the first team, but endured a disappointing first season at Ewood Park as Rovers finished 19th in the Second Division. The following season was a huge success, however, as playoff victory ended the club's 26-year exile from the top division and secured their place in the new Premier League. Moran continued in his role as club captain as Rovers finished fourth in 1992–93 and runners-up in 1993–94, and finally retired at