Legendary goalie Murray joins Raith Rovers Hall of Fame

Murray McDermott was Raith Rovers' goalkeeper for over 10 years

Born in Edinburgh on February 2, 1950, Murray signed for the club from Penicuik Juniors in November 1969 and made his debut the following year on September 26, 1970 against Brechin City at Stark’s Park.

He went on to play 494 games for Rovers before leaving at the end of season 1980-81, going on to play for Berwick Rangers, Morton, Arbroath, Meadowbank Thistle, Partick Thistle and Hearts, playing in goal for the Tynecastle side in the UEFA Cup in 1988.

Tragically, he died of cancer in 2003 at the age of just 53. It was his passing that led to the launch of the Raith Rovers’ Former Players association.

John Greer of the Hall of Fame organising committee said. “After Murray passed away there was a benefit match played in his memory.

‘‘Getting all the players together for the occasion that led Ally Gourlay on the road to the setting up of the Former Players’ Association, which continues to this day, so that’s a real legacy that Murray left behinde.”

John said that Murray was underrated and could have played at a higher level if he’d ever chosen to go full-time.

“Murray was a real Rovers stalwart,” he said.

“For Rovers fans of a certain age Bobby Reid was a real goalkeeping legend, but then Murray came in and he really took over that mantle.

“He played with the club for over 10 seasons and stuck with the Rovers. He was happy playing part time and working with the civil service.

“He was a really great goalie and, I think, very underrated.

“Before he passed away himself, Ally always had it in his mind that Murray was a must for the Hall of Fame, so we’re delighted this year to announce him as an inductee.”

Murray joins McCrae’s Battalion members Jimmys Todd and Scott as inductees chosen by the Hall of Fame Committee for 2016 and now John says they want to hear from the fans who can now email in their own nominees.

“It’s really important to get the input from the supporters,” John said.

“They’ve supported the Hall of Fame in their numbers by buying tickets as soon as they go on sale, so we really want to get their suggestions as to who should be inducted this year.”

Supporters can email their nominations, giving a few of their reasons why, to the email address [email protected].

John added: “It’s the fans’ night as much as ours so we’d really value their opinions.”