1981 - Dave Mehmet

 This morning, I have only just heard of the passing of former Rowdie - Dave Mehmet, 

who died on the 9th April, 2024, at the age of 63, having suffered a stroke.

Dave was a skillful midfielder for Millwall, and made 153 appearances for the club.

He played at The Den over two spells between 1977 and 1981,before rejoining 

them from 1986 to 1988.

He joined the Rowdies in 1981, to link up with former 

Millwall manager Gordon Jago, for a transfer fee of £120,000.

After a year in the States, he returned to England, with Charlton Athletic 

paying £80,000 for his services. 

He netted twice in 29 league matches for the Addicks and, having been released 

by the south London club, was signed by Gillingham, on a free transfer in March 1983. 

Gills’ manager Keith Peacock, his assistant, Paul Taylor, and the club’s chief scout, 

Ted Buxton, had all been at the Rowdies while Mehmet was there.

I would like to express my condolences to Dave’s family and friends at this sad time.

Rowdies Memorabilia - Ossie Ardiles Autobiography

 "Ossie's Dream" - The autobiography of Ossie Ardiles, the former midfielder 

and one of the most iconic footballers ever to have graced the game. 

After winning the World Cup with Argentina in 1978, 

Ossie became the first foreign player to make an impact in England, 

paving the way for the modern era of multinational teams. 

He was immortalised in Chas & Dave's hit record 

"Ossie's Dream (Spurs Are On Their Way to Wembley)".

In that unforgettable 1981 FA Cup Final, the silky skills of Ossie 

and fellow Argentine midfielder Ricky Villa inspired Spurs to their famous 

victory over Man City. 

He also helped Spurs to retain the trophy the following year, 

and to win the UEFA Cup in 1984, and even found time to star 

in the classic football film Escape to Victory 

with Bobby Moore, Pelé, Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone.

Thirty years on from those glory days, Ossie has a unique perspective 

on the football world, through his long career both playing 

and in management, with the emphasis always 

on style and entertainment. 

He also talks about growing up under a military dictatorship, 

how he was torn between two countries owing to the 

outbreak of the Falklands War, which claimed the life 

of one of his cousins, and how that football world has changed over the decades.

Published in 2009.

Rowdies Snap Shots - Rowdies Invade Lorenzo's

 The "Rowdies Invade Lorenzo's" -  Helen Elm Monk poses with Peter Nogly,

Mike Connell and Wes McLeod in 1983.

Many thanks to Helen for this photo.

Rowdies Press Photos - Graham Paddon

Graham Paddon in action during the May 9th, 1978 game at Anaheim Stadium,

against the California Surf, in which the Rowdies lost 0-3.

Rowdies Memorabilia - Mike Connell Adidas Advertisement

A signed magazine advertisement for adidas, Mike Connell's boot sponsor.

Given to me by Mike Connell.

Rowdies Press Photo - Paul Hammond

 Goalkeeper Paul Hammond catches the ball, during Soccer Bowl '75, against

the Portland Timbers at Spartan Stadium.

Rowdies Memorabilia - 1979 Ticket Stub

This ticket is from the game against the San Diego Sockers, September 2nd, 1979, the Rowdies would win 3-2, in front of 38,766 fans.

Thanks to Pete McNulty.

Rowdies Video - David Moss on 'How to Dribble'

 A report that aired on the 13th August, 1981 - Showing David Moss on 'How to Dribble'.

Rowdies Memorabilia - 1990 Rowdies vs. Capitals Game Report

A newspaper clipping from the Rowdies 1990 APSL Game against the Albany Capitals played on May 19th, 1990, at Tampa Stadium.

The Rowdies lost 1-2.