After the departure of a now left-footless Roy Race, it was Rocky's time to continue the legacy. The teenager ran out for his debut in 1993 wearing a shirt decorated with yet another iconic brand - Subbuteo. As Rovers continued in stripes, small sportswear brand Luna were the surprise early season providers. But giants Umbro would soon takeover and add the granddad lace-up collar popular in the mid-90s. The Subbuteo logo was worn mainly in white, but occasionally in red.
Rocky's first controversial season ended with Rovers narrowly avoiding relegation. But glory would return the next season and an FA Cup Final win. Snickers had taken over sponsorship for the last few games of that 1994/95 season.
The most unpopular Rovers strip in their history made a first appearance in 1997. Predominantly yellow with a huge red star, yellow shorts and red and yellow clown socks. Rovers were fighting for survival in Division One, an slightly ironic sponsor, Match of the Day, a TV show that Rovers would not be on for the first time since 1981/82. Roy Race had returned to inspire his side to a last day escape from relegation.
A much smarter and popular kit saw Rovers promoted back to the top flight, as Roy overhauled the playing squad to match the rugby league inspired new jerseys. Rovers again managed to attract a word famous sponsor, with fast food chain McDonalds' famous M complimenting the traditional red and yellow colours. The chevron shirt would remain into the 2000s as Rovers would win the Cup in 1999 and the Premier League in 2000.
Languishing in the lower divisions Melchester Rovers would embark on a new challenge in 2018 in a smart new design by Danish sportswear firm Hummel. Worn with two sponsors, The Totally Football Show and then publishers Rebellion, the new look Rovers have proven a bit hit with young fans.
The final part of this complete guide includes a selection of alternative and promotional strips that have appeared throughout the years. As these largely contradict the original history, I won't describe them, but I have to say some of the branded strips from the 80s are rather smart.
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