Cambridge United Mourns Loss of Bobby Ross
The Cambridge United family has been saddened by the recent death, at the age of 84, of Bobby Ross, who graced the Abbey Stadium for two seasons in the 1970s. Bobby was signed by manager Bill Leivers in October 1972 and helped the U's to promotion to Football League Division Three in his first season. He eventually made 73 appearances in black and amber, scoring 15 times, and when he left the Abbey in 1974, Leivers described him as one of the club's best ever signings.
What Happened?
Bobby was born in Edinburgh in 1942 and, after a youth career with Tynecastle Athletic and Musselburgh Athletic, spent three years with Heart of Midlothian. A three-year spell at Shrewsbury Town was followed by a 1966 move to Brentford and he became a firm favourite at Griffin Park, serving as captain and being named the supporters' player of the year on two occasions. After making 323 appearances and scoring 56 goals for the Bees, Bobby arrived in Cambridge on a free transfer and made an immediate impression, scoring inside six minutes on his League debut, a 3-0 home win over Colchester United.
Why it Matters for Cambridge United
Bobby played a crucial part in the unforgettable 3-2 home win over Mansfield Town on 28 April 1973 that brought Third Division football to the Abbey for the first time, scoring the second goal from a penalty in front of 11,542 spectators. He also scored in the first game of 1973-74, against Southport, but the season ended in disappointment and relegation back to Division Four. Bobby was appointed club captain for 1974-75 but at the age of 32 he decided to retire from the full-time professional game before the season started, taking a job with British Leyland.
What Comes Next?
Cambridge United joins the rest of the football community in offering condolences to Bobby's family. Next fixture: vs Barnsley (at home, 2027-01-16).
