RS McColl

1876 — 1959

Among the most famous footballers of his time Robert Smyth McColl was a prolific goal scorer and exemplary team player who was often commended for his excellent passing. McColl started his senior football career as an amateur with Queen’s Park FC in 1894. When he decided to turn professional in 1901 the leading clubs south of the border lined up to try and secure his services. McColl chose Newcastle United and would spend three years with the Tyneside club. He moved back north to play with Rangers in 1904 before being reinstated as an amateur so that he could return to Queen’s Park in 1907. In his final outing in senior football he scored six goals for Queen’s Park against Port Glasgow Athletic. McColl also had an exceptional scoring rate at international level, with 13 goals recorded in just 13 appearances. His most famous game for Scotland was the Rosebery international match of 1900 when he scored a hat-trick in the 4-1 win over England at Celtic Park. He was also a successful businessman in the confectionary trade earning the nickname ‘Toffee Bob’.