Rob van de Rovers

Rob van de Rovers
Publication information
Publisher	Oberon Publications
Schedule	Weekly
Formats	Original material for the series has been published as a set of ongoing series.
Genre	Sport
Publication date	1980
Main character(s)	Rob Ridder

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Rob van de Rovers was a British comic strip originally written by Frank S. Pepper and drawn by Joe Colquhoun and it was published by Oberon Publications in Netherlands and Belgium under this title from 1980 until 1992. Rob van de Rovers was the Dutch localized adaptation of the famous British comic series Roy of the Rovers.

The series was subsequently continued by various comic authors. This football comic revolved around Dutch football club Randstad Rovers' player/manager Rob Ridder. He experienced all kinds of adventures on and around the football pitch. The comic strips was one of the best in the 1980s alongside Roel Djikstra.

Storyline

The story starts in 1980. Rob Ridder was a Dutch footballer who played for Randstad Rovers as player/manager. His best friend was Sjaak Zwaag (aka Blackie Gray in the English version).

In 1981 Randstad Rovers toured Crete on the summer, and at the end of the 1981-82 they were relegated to Netherland's second division. Rob then married Penny. Rovers returned to the top flight immediately. In 1983 he left to take over a rival club, but he soon returned. In 1986 Rob missed representing Netherlands in the 1986 Mexico World Cup due to the Bus Crash in Basran where Randstad Rovers were touring.

In 1990 Rob featured for the Netherlands national team. The last album in 1992 is about Rovers' tour in Tokyo.

Rob van de Rovers, album 1

Guide: 1978-79 Melchester Rovers season
Its Christmas and its snowing. Rob Ridder as santa-clauss arrives at the Randstad Rovers sports center in the luxury car he received from the Sheikh of Basranier, but decides to auction off the car and a valuable carpet for a new squash court. Rovers train on a snowed-pitch.

As the team prepares for the important match against league leaders Dordrecht (white shirts, black shorts, see Carford City), tensions arise between the players and the new coach, Ben Derks. During an evening training session under artificial light, frustration mounts further when a misunderstanding between Rob and Erwin Eliot nearly leads to an injury. The squad struggles with a lack of mutual trust and difficult tactical adjustments just before the kickoff of the Eredivisie clash.

The 4-2-4 line-up against Dordrecht is: 1. Jan Kar - 2.Rovert, 3.Burger, 5.Zwaag, 6.Tuyp - 3.Hof, 10.Holweg - 7.Mervijn, 11.Eliot - 8.Klein, 9.Ridder (c). Final result: Dordrecht - Randstad Rovers 0-2 (Ridder b, Klein b).

League Rivals Haarlem drew 2-2 away and Rovers were favourites for the title. Then Rob Ridder remembers a goal that gave Randstad Rovers the European Cup (against a team with blue and black colours) and celebration with the trophy along Klein (Burger is behind). He also recalls a game Netherlands - Deutchland (5-1).

Then there is another game against a team (Ridder scores).

The Troublemaker, album 2

Guide: 1979-80 Melchester Rovers season
In 1980 Rob Ridder travels with his family to the state of Basran to train the national team during the summer recess. After a royal welcome by Sheikh Ibn Hassan, the family stays in a luxury villa, where preparations begin for the opening match of the new stadium against neighboring Zatar. Although Rob, as guest of honor, performs the opening ceremony with a goal, he watches from the stands as the Basran team immediately falls behind 1-0. The poor fitness and low level of play of his new team cause him great concern for the rest of the season.

Then Rob Ridders gets on field with no12 and scores 3 goals as a sub. He takes over as Basran's player-manager (red shirts and socks, green shorts). Next game is against Italian division 1 club San Marino (5-2). Rob scores an og - and then 3 goals and Jubal scores the 5th.

The Archrivals, album 3

Guide: 1979-80 Melchester Rovers season
In 1981 The Rovers are grappling with a massive wave of injuries, with key players like Tabak, Rovert and Gilles sidelined for the time being. Rob makes the tough decision not to let Sjaak Zwaag leave for the Netherlands U21 team, as he needs every fit player for the upcoming UEFA Cup match against Heklavik (all skyblue). While the media is full of this controversial decision, the squad prepares under high tension for the confrontation with the Icelandic amateurs.

The line-up against Heklavik is: 1. Jan Kar - Hippy Burger, Japie Prummel, Peter Len, Geert Holweg, Sjaak Zwaag, Cees Klein, Wally Mervijn, Erwin Eliot, Ridder (c), Paco Diaz. Subs: Roger Van Dix, Jan Van Der Grast.

At the kick-off in a packed stadium, it remains to be seen whether the weakened squad can hold its own against the physically strong opponent. Heklavik takes the lead in first half and Ridder equalises in second half (1-1). Then its Christmas again!

Rovers now face Wageningen in Eredivisie (blue and black colours, see Darlton) and Rovers beats them 2-0 (Paco Diaz, Ridder). After the game the table is: 1.Rovers 48, 2.Dordrecht 43, 3.Groningen 40, 4.Daanhaven 39, 5.Randwijk 39.

Danger in Crete, album 4

Guide: 1980-81 Melchester Rovers season
After winning the 1980-81 Eredividie league, the Randstad Rovers depart for Heraklion on Crete for a holiday combined with friendly matches. While the players and their partners enjoy the sun and the beach, the squad prepares for encounters with local clubs. During an informal training session on the beach, the Haarlem players challenge the Rovers, leading to a first showdown under the Greek sun. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, part of the group seeks adventure in the mountains, where a dangerous trek through the Samaria Gorge is on the agenda.

Then Rovers take over Dutch div2 champions Volendam (light green and white, see Stambridge City) at the ground of professional Greek club Zarkadi. Rovers beat them 3-1, despite Volendam's early lead with penalty (Ton, Ridder, Mervijn).

Then at Psychro village Ground: Melchester Rovers beat Haarlem (blue and white stripes shirts and black shorts, see Oldfield) 4-1 in an INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT.

Rob versus Penny, album 5

Guide: 1980-81 Melchester Rovers season
In 1982 Randstad Rovers are in crisis following the sale of star player Gilles Hof and their elimination from the FA Cup. While Rob Ridder seeks relaxation at home with his family, pressure mounts from fans and management to strengthen the weakened defense.

Gilles Hof with the number 8, is now the captain of his new team, rivals, Randwijk (see Melboro') and face Rovers. Randwijk beat them 3-1 with Gilles Hof scoring hat-trick and Ridder decrease the deficit 3-1.

Rob then sets his sights on Klaas Pruis (Nat Gosden) from Dordrecht, Rob also is interested in signing Peter Klein from Waaldrecht (colours sky blue and white) instead.

General Manager Ben Derks proposes giving a goalkeeper from the club's own youth academy a chance. During a trial session, young Walter Willems must prove himself against the experienced attackers to force his way into the starting lineup. Then its Christmas again!

Relegation, album 6

Guide: 1980-81 Melchester Rovers season
In 1982 Randstad Rovers find themselves in a critical phase, battling against relegation while also competing in the fifth round of the Cup. During a crucial home match against Spartax (colours sky blue and white, see Kelburn, the team starts brightly and takes a 1-0 lead through a goal by Cees Klein. After the break, however, play grinds to a complete halt, and the Rovers are unable to mount an attack. The defense comes under heavy pressure when the opponent scores the equalizer via one of their own players, increasing the uncertainty regarding their survival. They lost 2-1 away.

In the league they battle for survival. Results: Rovers - Barnhem 1-1, A.S.V. - Dordrecht 3-2, Haarlem - Atrecht 2-1, Poelwijk - Barenburg 0-1. Also Volendam (green shirts, white shorts, see Stambridge City) fights for survival. The next match at home against them is the most important in Rovers history!

Line up: 1.J.Kar, 2.N.Tabak, 3.H.Burger, 4.J.Ram, 5.N.Bruins, 6.S.Zwaag, 7.Paco Diaz, 8.Cees Klein, 9.Ridder (c), 10.W.Mervijn, 11.E.Eliot, subs: 12.A.Peters.

Volendam: 1.L.Cohen, 2.S.Harmsen, 3.D.Brandsma, 4.R.Tolboom , 5.Rob Mees (c), 6.T.Sandpoort, 7.J.Koop, 8.P.Langman, 9.M.Roest, 10.J.Willemse, 11.M.Knaap. Score is Rovers - Volendam 4-0 (Tabak, Burger, Bruins, Ridder). Rovers needed 5-0 win and they got relegated!

Bullets for Rob, album 7

Guide: 1981-82 Melchester Rovers season
Groningen (newly promoted) organises a tournament and Rovers discover young Kees Van Loon (Kenny Logan). Despite this unrest, eighteen-year-old Kees van Loon gets the chance to impress during a practice match, although his father would rather see him in the family business. The fast forward makes an impression, but the question remains whether he can sign a contract without his father's approval.

Following relegation last season, Randstad Rovers now play in the Second Division, where the atmosphere remains tense due to the presence of Rob's notorious cousin, Theo Roest. While Rob is surprised at home by his cousin's sudden arrival, the team grapples at the stadium with critical reporters demanding clarification regarding Niek Bruins' position.

Then new season in Div2 and Rovers beat Rapdam (green white, see Railborough) 5-0 (Zwaag, Diaz, Ridder 2). Next game against Noordrak (black and white, see Northfield) at home. Rovers win 3-0 and Eliot scores a hat-trick. Lineup was: Kar - Nol Tabak, Ton Kools, Japie Prumel, Hippy Burger, Zwaag, Cess Klein, Paco Diaz, Kees Van Loon, Ridder (c), Erwin Eliot. Sub: Cas Rovert

The Troublemaker, album 8

Guide: 1981-82 Melchester Rovers season
In 1983 After an attempt on his life, Rob Ridder has finally woken from his coma, while the outside world celebrates his regaining consciousness. In the hospital, he is being questioned by the police, but the footballer can remember little of the moment he was shot in his office. Meanwhile, serious doubts are arising about the involvement of Niek Bruins, who is on the list of suspects and seems to have vanished without a trace. While the inspector follows up on every possible lead, Bruins is suddenly stopped by officers at the airport for questioning.

Cess Klein took over as club captain, while Sir Alf is the club's manager. After the coma Ridder meets Sir Alf, Rob Ridder returns to action and crowd jeers for him, Robbie, Robbie! They face Wilton (sky blue and white, see Darlton). Ridder stays on the bench with the manager. Wilton win 4-3 at the Randstand Stadion (Van Loon, Cess Klein and Burger scored)

Farewell Rovers?, album 9

Guide: 1982-83 Melchester Rovers season
In 1983 Randstad Rovers are preparing for the new season in the Eredivisie, but are immediately faced with a massive injury list following a fateful cricket excursion. Sir Alf left and Ridder is again player-manager.

While star player Erwin Eliot is recovering from a muscle tear, Wally Mervijn and Jan Kar also prove unavailable for the season opener. Despite the absence of these key players, the Rovers must take on Wilton, placing immense pressure on the remaining squad. During the match, the team struggles to break through the opponent's defense, while Rob watches from the sidelines as big chances go unutilized.

New season they play home Wilton (all white with red, see Holverton). Lineup was: Jan Kar - Nol Tabak, Hippy Burger, Niek Bruins, Jan Wilems, Zwaag, Cess Klein, Gus Natter, Ridder (c), Cess Van Loon, Paco Diaz. Sub: Cas Rovert. Rovers lost 1-4 with Ridder scoring the only goal.

Then with Ridder on the stands, Rovers beat Zilvervogen (blue, white, see Portdean) 4-0 with Van Loon scoring a hat-trick. Opponent have a good black player (no7) Andy Lokke and Ridder is interested.

The Defector, album 10

In 1984 Rob Ridder considers a sensational move to FC Haven after chairman Jaap Evenhuis offers him a multi-million budget for new players. While the Rovers' board members react with bewilderment to the potential transfer, the atmosphere around the stadium turns grim due to protesting supporters. In the dressing room, a mysterious walking stick with a threatening message appears, further heightening tensions. Despite his wife Penny's pleas to stay with the Rovers, Rob openly doubts whether his future still lies with the club.

Keep It Up, Rob!, album 11

In 1985 Rob Ridder has made up his mind and is transferring to FC Haven, after a multi-million offer from chairman Jaap Evenhuis promises him full sporting control. The move causes a huge shock among the Randstad Rovers, where supporters express their displeasure with banners over the departure of their idol. While Rob discusses the personal consequences at home with his wife Penny, hostility around the stadium reaches a boiling point. In a charged benefit match, Rob suddenly finds himself on the pitch as an opponent of his former teammates, where the atmosphere is grim.

Shot at an Open Goal, album 12

In 1985 Rob Ridder is finally finding his feet at FC Haven, where he is granted much more freedom by chairman Jaap Evenhuis than before. While sporting performance improves, private problems arise when his wife Penny refuses to move with him and returns early from her holiday in Crete. The reason for this is a compromising newspaper photo showing Rob in the company of an unknown blonde woman. During the league match against Maassluis, Penny is sitting in the stands unnoticed, watching Rob lead his team to a resounding victory.

The Tough Opponent, album 13

In 1986 Upon his return to the Randstad Rovers as player-manager, Rob Ridder immediately faces internal resistance and critical questions regarding his tactical choices. During a television interview, he is forced to account for substituting fan favorite Robbie de Vries early. To strengthen the squad, Rob introduces young talent Maarten Roodzand, but warns that everyone must fight for a spot in the first team. During a friendly match, the relationships between the players are further put to the test when the established order must prove itself against the new signings.

The Tough Opponent, album 14

In 1986 The [[Randstad Rovers] have climbed the ranks in the race for the national Dutch cup following a series of victories, while the feud between Rob and top scorer Robbie de Vries has been settled. In the quarter-finals, a tough confrontation awaits against F.C. Hoogeveen, who field the tough-as-nails new signing Karl Gruber. Gruber, also known as the “Cannon of Dortmund,” directs his physical play directly at Rob from the kick-off to take him out of the game. While the attackers struggle with the double coverage, the Rovers attempt to force a breakthrough via the wings with a tactical shift.

The Tough Opponent, album 15

In 1987 In preparation for the new season, player-coach Rob Ridder strengthens the Randstad Rovers squad with goalkeeper Bert Wilton and striker Evert “Zoef” de Haas. While the seasoned newcomers immediately make their mark on the game, friction arises on the training pitch due to Rob’s tough approach towards Sjaak Zwaag. The tensions between them are put to the test during a fierce friendly match in which De Haas is forced off injured following a spectacular tackle. Despite this setback, the new formation must prove they are ready for the tough competition.

The Record Attempt, Album 16

In 1987 Randstad Rovers are on a run of many matches in a row without conceding a goal. While goalkeeper Bert Wilton trains for a new record, Rob Ridder is grappling with a luxury dilemma due to the return of the previously suspended Sjaak Zwaag. Competition within the squad is causing tension, especially when regulars end up on the bench. Rob realizes that the atmosphere is fragile just before the charged confrontation with his former team FC Haven, where he is welcomed as a ‘defector’.

Tanks in the Stadium, Album 17

In 1988 Randstad Rovers are preparing for the cup final against Den Bosch, while Rob Ridder faces a dilemma of luxury due to the return of midfielder Sjaak Zwaag. Although goalkeeper Bert Wilton is training for a record twelve matches without conceding a goal, there is unrest regarding the starting positions of established names. During the charged Final, the team comes under heavy pressure, and Wilton concedes his first goal in ages early on. Rob attempts to turn the tide with a rousing pep talk but watches as his team is tactically outplayed by the fiercely playing opponent.

Bus Crash in Basran, Album 18

In 1988 Following a military coup in Basran, the Randstad Rovers are forcibly transferred to the heavily guarded El Kadir barracks. While a Dutch commando unit prepares a rescue operation, the players are forced to endure physical violence and humiliation from the rebels. Rob devises a daring escape plan by challenging the guards to a football match in the courtyard. Tension rises when the rebel leader threatens to shoot the footballers at the slightest resistance, as the liberation operation begins in the surrounding desert.

Steven Nieland – The Price of Fame (Steven Nieland, 1988)

Top footballer Steven Nieland enjoys success on the pitch, but discovers that fame also has a downside. His marriage comes under pressure from an obsessive fan, while criminals target his family. This first album in the series shows that the life of a professional footballer is full of dangers and tensions, far beyond the lines of the stadium.

A False Start, Album 19

In 1989 After a convincing season opener against the Zebras, the revamped Randstad Rovers squad suffers a humiliating defeat against Victoria. In the run-up to the match against Tubantia, the Rovers are grappling with fierce internal squabbles and conflicts between the players and the technical staff. Furthermore, Rob Ridder’s personal problems disrupt the necessary calm, making it nearly impossible to field a united team. The tension is palpable as both teams head to the dressing rooms with the score at 1-1 after a tumultuous first half.

The Football Pass, Album 20

In 1989 After a tumultuous start to the season, Randstad Rovers squad is grappling with internal conflicts and personal issues within the technical leadership. Moreover, during the crucial league match against Tubantia, the feud between assistant coach Cees Klein and his son Koen flares up again. On the pitch, tension runs high due to the opponent's uncollegial play, with Koen Klein forced to abandon the match dizzy after a hard collision. Despite the grim atmosphere in the stands and the mutual irritations, the Rovers attempt to turn a 1-1 draw into a victory.

On the Way to the Million, Album 21

In 1990 In the battle for the national Cup, the Randstad Rovers face De Spartaan, a club notorious for its violent supporters. Thanks to the introduction of a special pass system, things remain calm in the stands, but on the pitch, the action is rough right from the kick-off. Rob Ridder is extra motivated to win after a millionaire promised a reward of one million guilders for a cup victory. Despite an early deficit and injuries, Rob attempts to break through De Spartaan's defense with a spectacular solo run to force the equalizer.

Rob in Oranje, Album 22

In 1990 The board signs the strong midfielder Barend “Pancho” Muller as a new player to strengthen the injury-stricken squad. Although Rob Ridder struggles with Muller’s headstrong behavior, the new signing immediately makes a crushing impression with a goal in the match against the Stormvogels. However, tensions between the two stars rise when Muller openly ignores Rob’s tactical instructions on the pitch. As the team prepares for the Cup final, Rob questions whether he should include the dominant Muller in the starting lineup for the battle for the million.

Tournament in Tokyo, Album 23

In 1992 After a tough season, Rob Ridder is looking forward to a well-deserved cruise with his family, but an unexpected phone call throws a spanner in the works. The youth team coach has fallen off a ladder and broken his ankle, meaning a replacement is urgently needed for a tournament in Japan. Although his wife Penny and the children initially protest, Rob decides to take on the task, and the group travels to Tokyo. Upon arrival, the team is welcomed with great ceremony by organizer Ichio Tanaka, who has prepared a spectacular opening ceremony.

Albums

A total of 23 issues were published between 1980 and 1992. These are, of course, faithful reprints of the original Roy of the Rovers stories and not new creations. The first 18 covers are designed by artist David Sque and the rest by the late Mike White.

Each album had 48 pages.

Dutch

• Rob van de Rovers + De wondersloffen van Sjakie (1) 1978
• Rob van de Rovers+ De wondersloffen van Sjakie (2) 1979

1. De Spaanse ster 1980
2. De brokkenmaker 1980
3. De aartsrivalen 1981
4. Gevaar op Kreta 1981
5. Rob contra Penny 1982
6. Degradatie 1982
7. Kogels voor Rob 1982
8. Wie is de dader? 1983-1986
9. Vaarwel Rovers? 1983
10. De overloper 1984
11. Volhouden, Rob! 1985
12. Schot voor open doel 1985
13. Problemen bij de Rovers 1986
14. De harde tegenstander 1986
15. De nieuwe aanwinsten 1987
16. De recordpoging 1987
17. Tanks in het stadion 1988
18. Busramp in Basran 1988
19. Een valse start 1989
20. De voetbalpas 1989
21. Op weg naar het miljoen 1990
22. Rob in Oranje 1990
23. Toernooi in Tokio 1992
24. Steven Nieland – De tol van de roem 1988

Template:Appendix

In English

• Rob van de Rovers + Sjakie's Magic Slippers (1) 1978
• Rob van de Rovers + Sjakie's Magic Slippers (2) 1979

1. The Spanish Star 1980-1985
2. The Troublemaker 1980-1985
3. The Archrivals 1981-1985
4. Danger on Crete 1981-1982
5. Rob versus Penny 1982-1986
6. Relegation 1982
7. Bullets for Rob 1982
8. Who is the Culprit? 1983-1986
9. Farewell Rovers? 1983
10. The Defector 1984
11. Keep It Up, Rob! 1985
12. Shot at an Open Goal 1985
13. Problems at the Rovers 1986
14. The Tough Opponent 1986
15. The New Recruits 1987
16. The Record Attempt 1987
17. Tanks in the Stadium 1988
18. Bus Crash in Basran 1988
19. A False Start 1989
20. The Football Pass 1989
21. On the Way to the Million 1990
22. Rob in Orange 1990
23. Tournament in Tokyo 1992
24. Steven Nieland – The Price of Fame 1988

• Sjakie's Magic Slippers (Billy Dane's magic boots

Template:Appendix

Clubs

• Randstad Rovers
• Dordrecht
• Heklavik
• Haarlem
• Spartax
• FC Haven
• Maassluis
• F.C. Hoogeveen
• Den Bosch
• Victoria
• Tubantia
• De Spartaan
• Stormvogels

Sources

• Rob van de Rovers

Extternal links

• Albums with preview!

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