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Vale' Bob 'Tassie' Johnson

dee-luded
in Melbourne Demons

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I was at Glenferrie Oval in 1969 when Peter Hudson kicked 16 goals. He started on Tassie, and in the end, we tried about 5 full backs, with no success.

But that was unusual. Tassie was very tough, strong and versatile. He was a good mark, and a great drop kick.

As Whispering Jack said, he filled in successfully in the ruck or chf when required, but was the top full back of his era.

Edited by Jumping Jack Clennett

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    Definately, "Ol fashioned Sarrs""

    Memories, Linger!

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    I was another who had Tassie's number 8 on my back as a kid.

    Vale Tassie, one of my favourites

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    • 6 months later...
     

    Just found the news about Tassie. He was my next door neighbour for 20 years in Heathmont from the age of 2. I remember him as a quiet, private, humble, giant of a man. 

    Until now, I hadn't appreciated just how great a footballer he was. 

    Vale Tassie. 

    Edited by Doucra
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    As mentioned he was my first "Hero" footballer you took the time to talk to me when I was a nipper and signed the back of my Jumper proudly emblazoned with that magic number 8!

    I still have that jumper!

     

    Edited by picket fence

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    A true great. One of my favourites. Loved to watch him. Not quick but a beautiful build, solid in the legs and upper body. Tremendous overhead whether marking or defensive punching. Invariably Tassie's fist would get to the ball before his opponent could mark. Read the play better than most so always seemed to be in the right position. A beautiful kick of the ball.  He and Bernie Massie were on a par for their long penetrating kicks from defence. Film star looks with black hair always impeccably neat and brushed back. A macho version of Rock Hudson. Unlike Rock, Tassie was tougher than nails. No one intimidated Tassie. His sheer presence was enough to make opponents glance over their shoulder. One of the toughest and dirtiest full forwards ever seen was John Peck of Hawthorn. He intimidated all defenders except for Tassie who stood toe to toe with him. Peck had great respect for Tassie and knew he had met his match. Very versatile. Despite his greatness as a Full Back and back pocket played many games in the ruck and occasionally up forward. Slowed up toward the end but retired with his reputation intact. Very sad that Tassie along with many other greats will not be around to see our rise.

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