This group of footballers were off on a tour, and we wanted to know who they are, where they were headed, when was the tour, and whether they had a good time! We know it sounds a little unfair, but asked Davie Kerr to hold off on giving us all the answers for just 48 hours because we knew for sure that he would be able to remember! We have already had a great response from some of those who went on this tour to New York and New Jersey. Davie emailed us with the following details within hours of the photo being posted:-
"I think this was in 1973, and I think it was the football squad for the trip to Hoboken NJ. I seem to remember two things from that tour: first, that we won the important game 3-2, and second, that I managed to get lost in the woods on a training run! However, I got back in time for the game, and (though I say it myself) did OK in goal.
I think the only two of that lot still on the island are Steve Taylor and Mike Rickards. (Editors note - Eric Robinson also still lives in Bermuda and still keeps active playing golf.)
Back, from L:- Iain Morrison, John Headey, Steve Taylor, Frank Dowie, Eric Robinson (C), Brian McManus (C), Bob Porritt. Front, from L:- Dave Parsons (manager), Dave Walker (C), John Walsh, Roger Brydon, Mike Rickards, Les Pearson, Stuart Donaldson, Davie Kerr, Graham Blackshaw (C), Dave Inwood. (C) = Civilians.
Dave Inwood is probably contactable via Sid Gordon, and I think he was quite matey with Dave W so may be able to fill in a few more details.
Comments
Great trip. Second game was at Oehlers Mountain Lodge under floodlights on a pristine pitch. Remember driving North from NY in driving rain.. Hoboken FC were great hosts. Memories include Steve Taylor leading the dancing to the German Oompah band, and sharing a hotel room with tee total Davie Kerr in NY. At the risk of speaking out of turn we also visited the Playboy Club, and I recall Dave Inwood instigating a late night / early morning walk of the streets in a vain search for a bar. Davie was asleep when I left, - and when I returned !
The shorts caused a stir at the airport in NY.
Editors note - Great to hear from you John. Can you give us an update on yourself and also on your daughter's career?
Editors note - Great post Steve. Hope it helps to bring back some wonderful memories from over 40 years ago.
Front Row L to R - Dave Parsons, Dave Walker, John Walsh, Roger Brydon, Mike Rickards, Les Pearson, Stuart Donaldson, Davie Kerr, Graham Blackshaw, Dave Inwood.
Believe it is the Police Football Team, taken in the summer of 1973 prior to a pre-season tour to New Jersey and New York (concur with Dave Walker). I can't vouch for anyone else, but I certainly had a good time on this and every other tour.
Editors note - Many thanks Iain, and I will ensure that your first name is spelled correctly from now on! Davie Kerr had also emailed me directly with all the names so I can vouch for your accuracy. Will publish the details supplied by Davie, and will leave this photo on the front page for a few more days so that anyone who went on the tour can add their own comments.
Top Row l to r, Iain Morrison, Pass?, Steve Taylor, Frank Dowie, Eric Robinson, Pass?, Bob Porritt.
Front Row, Dave Parsons, Dave Walker, John Walsh, Roger Brydon, Pass?, Les Pearson, Pass, Dave Kerr, Graham Blackshaw, Dave Inwood.
Editors note - Many thanks Dave. We have just published an article about Dave in our "Then and Now" column. I should add that Davie Kerr has been in touch with us and has identified everyone in the photo. We will publish the information kindly supplied by Davie tomorrow!
Dave O'
Dave O'