Tributes to Mossley legend Bob

SO PROUD . . . Bob Murphy leads out Mossley at Wembley in 1980.

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MOSSLEY officials and supporters have been saddened by the death of hugely-popular club president and former manager Bob Murphy at the age of 83.

Moston-born Murphy was associated with the Seel Park club for more than four decades. He first joined the Lilywhites as a scout, before earning promotion to assistant manager in November, 1972.

When George Sievwright was sacked in January, 1974, Murphy was promoted to the caretaker manager's position, being appointed permanently that summer.

That heralded the start of a golden period in the club's history, which included Northern Premier League title wins and the unforgettable FA Trophy final appearance in 1980 at Wembley Stadium.

Murphy later enjoyed spells at Southport, Barrow and Buxton, before a return to Mossley in November, 1992, saw him almost rescue the club from relegation from the NPL top flight.

After quitting management, Murphy returned for a couple of stints in caretaker charge of the Lilywhites, while also taking in scouting roles at Leeds United and Athletic.

He was appointed Mossley's club president in 2003 following the passing of predecessor Jim Wharmby.

Murphy died last Wednesday and tributes have flooded in ever since.

Former player and manager Kevan Keelan Tweeted: "There will never ever be another Bob Murphy.

“Thanks for building a team that gave me the chance to play at Wembley."

Ex-Lilywhites boss Ally Pickering said on Facebook: "RIP never forgotten. God bless. Bob was the Alex Ferguson of non-league football."

Mossley's crunch Evo-Stik League Division One North clash against Northwich Victoria on Saturday was postponed due to a waterlogged Seel Park pitch. The Lilywhites return on Saturday with a trip to Bamber Bridge.



Chadderton also saw their Reusch North-West Counties League First Division Cup quarter-final tie at Hanley Town washed out. Chaddy are next in action in the league at home against Holker Old Boys on Saturday.