Gerry Gow RIP

[Hutch's Shoulder]

From the OS:

Everyone at Manchester City FC saddened to learn of the passing of Gerry Gow at the age of 64 following his brave battle with illness. A cult hero in his short spell at Maine Road in the eighties, Gow made 36 appearances for the Blues in 1981, including both games of the FA Cup final against Spurs.

Signed by John Bond following a difficult start to the 1980/81 season, the tough-tackling midfielder made an immediate impact, helping City to a run of just two defeats in 11 games between November and the New Year.

City would finish safely in mid-table despite winning none of their first 12 games before Gerry arrived but the campaign would be best remembered for progress in the cup competitions.

Following a controversial defeat to Liverpool in the semi-final of the League Cup, the Blues went one better in the FA Cup, reaching the 100th final, thanks in no small part to two goals from Gow on the road to Wembley.

Although City lost out to Spurs following a replay, it was undoubtedly one of the great FA Cup finals and was a highlight in the Scot's career.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News in 2012, Gow said: "To play in the centre of midfield at one of the leading clubs in English football was such an honour.

"I immediately felt at home with both the lads in the team and especially the fans.

"To have played in the 100th FA Cup final was a dream come true, albeit we did not come home to Manchester with the trophy, which remains a regret.

"I will never forget the time I spent there and will always feel part of the cub. I am, of course, delighted with the recent success of winning the league and long may the success continue."

Gow is remembered as a Bristol City legend, making nearly 400 appearances for The Robins between 1969 and 1981.

Following his brief spell in Manchester, he joined Rotherham at the start of the 1981/82 season before retiring at Yeovil in 1984 where he was player-manager for three years.

Our thoughts are with Gerry's friends and family at this sad time.

[Hutch's Shoulder]

I remember the impact he had on a season that was going down the pan, together with Tommy Hutch and Bobby Mac. A much needed injection of professional nowse, bite (often literally) and determination into a talented but brittle team. I loved to see him crunch into tackles and walk away as if nothing had happened while his opponent writhed on the ground. He would be sent off every other game now, and could be ruthless but it was great when he was on your side.

The fancy Dan midfielders up stairs will be quaking in their boots. So long Gerry.

[Wonderwall]

I didn't realise he played so few games for us.

RIP

[Peter Doherty (AGAIG)]

Fond memories of this gentleman. Very sad to hear this.

[City64]

Great player and warrior for us in bad times for our great football club . Hard as they come RIP

[Hazy2]

1981 Was a special year to follow City Gerry Gow was part of A trio of proper players with Bobby Mac and Tommy Hutch who made us a quality side. R I P Gerry Gow

[s1ty m]

That's sad. RIP Gerry Gow.

[harveytravis]

My abiding memory of him was in the 81 cup final.
Tenacious in the tackle and feared by the opposition
He only played for us for a couple of years but certainly left his mark on the memory of all us supporters

I saw both finals (the replay on a Thursday night in London - another home game for Spurs!)
He was a warrior

[Spurge]

I didn't realise he played so few games for us.

RIP

Yes these were my thoughts. I guess it shows the level of impact he had on the side during his time with us.

Very sad news.

[john@staustell]

I remember the impact he had on a season that was going down the pan, together with Tommy Hutch and Bobby Mac. A much needed injection of professional nowse, bite (often literally) and determination into a talented but brittle team. I loved to see him crunch into tackles and walk away as if nothing had happened while his opponent writhed on the ground. He would be sent off every other game now, and could be ruthless but it was great when he was on your side.

The fancy Dan midfielders up stairs will be quaking in their boots. So long Gerry.

I once saw it said that his toothless grin would drain the blood from opponents' faces.

Top man.

[Mikhail Chigorin]

Terrific player.

Hard, brave, tenacious and not unskillful in his own way.

What an impact he made when he arrived.

[zuricity]

RIP Gerry, saw you a few times when at College and working in Bristol, before you came to Mecca and God's own team. Hope you are as late for your funeral as you were in the tackle !

[South Stand Balti]

Terrific player.

Hard, brave, tenacious and not unskillful in his own way.

What an impact he made when he arrived.

Yes, my thoughts too. GMR caught up with him a year or two ago. He had a great affinity and connection still with City. Very, very sad news. RIP Gerry.

[johnny crossan]

Gerry's flying scythe tackles made Nige's efforts look positively benign.

[Mikhail Chigorin]

Terrific player.

Hard, brave, tenacious and not unskillful in his own way.

What an impact he made when he arrived.

Yes, my thoughts too. GMR caught up with him a year or two ago. He had a great affinity and connection still with City. Very, very sad news. RIP Gerry.

He could dish it out, but he could also take it; a proper man.

64 is no age at all - this is so very sad.

[Tokyo Blue]

One of my favourite players from that team. Thank you for the enjoyment you gave and RIP, Gerry.

[Dubaimancityfan]

I remember him well and fondly from the 2 FA Cup finals against Spurs. RIP Gerry.

[BookJunior]

Really sad to hear this news. A really good defensive midfielder. Rest in Peace Gerry.

[ColinBell8]

He was a breath of fresh air along with Bobby Mac & Tommy Hutchison. Such sad news to hear of his passing away.
A real hard man in a world of pretenders but a good all-round midfielder as well.

R.I.P Gerry