Jim Brown, who played with Sam Ferris in Scotland, pays tribute to his late team-mate…
I was lucky enough to know Sam both at Chesterfield and Albion Rovers when we both played for them in the old Scottish League Division 2.
Albion Rovers, like the other teams in the league, were part-time and we trained on a Tuesday and Thursday evening ready for the game on Saturday. Sam probably wasn’t the hardest trainer in the world but he had a turn of speed and was excellent on the ball. He was certainly head and shoulders above most of the players in that league and it was no surprise when he moved to Chesterfield.
At Albion Rovers he was the typical student with his long hair, college scarf and duffel coat. Always had a smile on his face and certainly enjoyed his football. Our biggest memory for Rovers would be playing against Glasgow Celtic at Parkhead in the Scottish Cup with Celtic playing most of their European Cup winning-team. Although we lost the game 5-0, as we were all mostly Celtic fans it was an unforgettable experience.
At Chesterfield he was obviously playing alongside better players and he certainly didn’t look out of place. I’m sure with his style of play he could slot into our team today.
I only found out recently he was instrumental in getting me signed after manager Jimmy McGuigan rang him to ask his opinion of me. Knowing Sam, he wouldn’t have a bad word to say about anyone but he certainly did me a massive favour.
It’s a great shame we didn’t stay in touch but it’s nice to know he continued playing into his 30s and had a lovely family and grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Sam is front row, second from the left
Jim is back row, fifth from the left
