This is a 1990/91 West Bromwich Albion matchworn #1 goalkeepers shirt.
That season the club’s number one keeper was Stuart Naylor, with the late Mel Rees as reserve keeper.
Rees made 18 appearances for the Baggies between 1990 and 1992, before moving to Sheffield United who were having something of a crisis with first team keepers.
In the summer of 1992, Rees was diagnosed with bowel cancer and underwent surgery in an attempt to beat the disease. Unfortunately in resurfaced in early 1993, and Rees was given a standaing ovation by United and Wednesday fans at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final as he led United onto the field and took in a parade lap of the pitch.
Unfortunately despite putting up a brave fight Rees passed away that year on 30th May, aged just 26.
In Sheffield there is still an annual Mel Rees tournament, which raises funds for St Luke’s Hospice, organised by InterBlade FC.
