Former Dundee striker Joe Gilroy got in touch with BwB after hearing of the death of Cilla Black.
Joe played for Dundee in the late 1960s and early 70s under manager John Prentice before emigrating to South Africa.
Now living in Australia, he was obviously touched by the passing of the Liverpool icon.
“The news of Cilla Black reminded me that Dave Hilley and I met up with her and husband Bobby at Kylami Ranch, just outside Johannesburg,” said Joe.
“We were there preparing with Highlands Park for the 1973 Castle Cup Final against Sean Connor’s Florida Albion.
“We chatted for ages as Bobby was a football fanatic.
“We were given tickets for the show in Jo’burg and went back stage afterwards for drinks.
“Fond memories and where have the years gone?”
Joe started his senior career with Queen’s Park in the early 1960s and played alongside Alex Ferguson for the Hampden amateurs.
It was with John Prentice’s Clyde that he first came to prominence and his 44 goals in just over 100 games for the Bully Wee saw Fulham take him south.
After two years there, he joined Dundee, under Prentice again.
After leaving Dens in 1971, it was off to South Africa.
Returning to Scotland, he was appointed coach of Falkirk with John Prentice as manager — his third spell with the former Scotland manager.
Gilroy then managed Valur in Iceland, Morton and Queen’s Park before emigrating to Australia.
Down Under, he managed Brisbane Lions and Brisbane City, and also coached Queensland.
Have a story to share with John? Email: jbrown@dcthomson.co.uk
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