Voting for Rovers’ standout player of the 1960s is now open and supporters can have their say via the widget at the bottom of the page.
Alick Jeffrey, Laurie Sheffield and Alan Warboys have already been inducted into the Hall of Fame for their contribution in the 60s so are not included in the vote.
John Coyle has created a four-man shortlist of the remaining stand out players from the decade and supporters can read about the nominees below. Voting will close on February 3 and the winner of the vote will be inducted on the pitch at our match vs Rochdale.
COLIN BOOTH
One of Rovers’ most prolific goal scorers, former England Under-23 international Colin Booth arrived at Rovers in August 1962 having played for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest. He announced himself by scoring 34 League goals in a team that otherwise struggled and finished mid-table. Forming an effective partnership with Alfie Hale, Booth went on to score a total of 62 senior goals in only 101 games, a record of three goals every five games. He contributed two hat-tricks but despite his efforts Rovers did not challenge for promotion in either of his two seasons. He moved on to Oxford United, where he scored 23 goals in his first season and still lives in the Oxford area.
BOBBY GILFILLAN
Cowdenbeath-born Bobby had the distinction of being the only player awarded a medal for both the 1965-66 and the 1968-69 Division Four Championship seasons. A versatile player, he started out as a winger with Newcastle United and Southend United before joining Rovers in 1965. He helped Rovers to promotion as Champions in his first season, scoring six goals. Three years later he repeated the feat, appearing in 34 games and contributing seven goals. Later in his career at Rovers he often filled in as a left-back. He left Rovers in 1971 and subsequently played for Northwich Victoria. His overall record was 38 goals from 204 appearances.
TONY COLEMAN
Winger Tony Coleman had enjoyed little success with three League clubs before joining Rovers from non-League Bangor City in November 1965. He made an immediate impression, contributing five goals and numerous assists to help Rovers secure the Fourth Division Championship that season. He also made an impression on a referee called Pickles, swinging a blow at the official after he had sent Coleman off in a game at Belle Vue. His efforts in a struggling Rovers side the following season persuaded First Division Manchester City to sign him in March 1967 and he earned a League Championship and FA Cup Winners’ medal with City. He later emigrated to Australia. His record for Rovers was 11 goals in 64 appearances.
JOHN NICHOLSON
Liverpool-born John Nicholson made only 45 appearances for Rovers, but he made a huge impression on the club and was sorely missed following his tragic death in September 1966 following a car accident. John began his career at Liverpool before spending four seasons with Port Vale. In September 1965 he moved to Rovers and was soon appointed club captain. A natural leader, he inspired his team-mates to the Fourth Division Title that season despite manager Bill Leivers resigning in February 1966. He and Rovers started the 1966-67 season in good spirits, but his sudden death had a depressing effect throughout the club, where he was much loved and respected.
