Jason, or “J.J.” Price gave himself an excellent chance to become a legend amongst Rovers fans when he marked his home debut in February 2006 by scoring twice in a 2-0 win over local rivals Barnsley. However, it was perhaps his efforts a year later that gave supporters their lasting memory of the Welsh-born striker. With Rovers and Crewe Alexandra level at 2-2 in a tense Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Area Final second leg, Price popped up to score the winner and send Rovers to the Final at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.
The former Swansea City, Brentford, Tranmere Rovers and Hull City forward had scored a hat-trick against Rovers during his Hull days, and the memory of that persuaded manager Dave Penney to bring Price to Rovers. Although not a prolific scorer, he had a habit of scoring important goals, such as those highlighted above, and his afro hair style and work-rate increased his popularity with fans. He was unfortunate enough to suffer an Achilles tendon injury in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final victory against Bristol Rovers, an injury that side-lined him until the following season. He made important contributions to Rovers’ promotion to the Championship, playing in all three play-off matches including the Wembley Final where Rovers beat Leeds United to secure Championship football.
The following season he found himself on the fringes and moved on to Millwall after a loan spell. Thereafter he became a much-travelled player, including playing for several non-League clubs in Yorkshire. He retains great affection for Rovers and remains a welcome figure when he returns to the Keepmoat Stadium to play in charity matches.
Rovers Debut: 4th February 2006, League One vs. Swindon Town (away) Lost 1-2.
Final game: 14th March 2009, Championship vs. Birmingham City (home) Lost 0-2.
Rovers Career: Football League: 93 appearances, 17 goals. All senior games: 114 appearances, 23 goals
Honours with Rovers: Johnstone’s Paint Trophy winner 2006-07, Promoted to Championship 2007-08.