Career
A versatile attacking player, he was skilful but also had a tough-man image. born Ringsend, Fullam worked as a docker in Dublin, and played for Shelbourne F.C. 1918-1921, winning the Irish Cup in 1920. He then transferred to Shamrock Rovers, and played in the inaugural Free State Cup final in 1922. In that match, his skirmishes with Charlie Dowdall of eventual champions Saint James"s Gate F.C. helped provoke post-match disturbances involving players and supporters.
This led to a ban for the start of the following season.
He transferred to Leeds United for 1923-1924 but played only seven games. He returned to Rovers the next season, helping them to the Double, as "give it to Bob" became a Dublin catchphrase.
In the 1926 Cup final, he famously pulled out of a goalmouth challenge, sacrificing a goal (and the Cup) to prevent injuring the Fordsons goalkeeper. Fullam made his debut for the Irish Free State against Italy in Turin in 1926.
He scored in the return match against Italy in 1927.
As he was now 30, and the selectors had a preference for young players, this second cap was his last. He continued to play for Shamrock Rovers into the early 1930s. In 1927/28 he went to the United States along with Dinny Doyle and several other players from both North and South.
Upon their arrival in Philadelphia they formed their own club which was known as Irish Philadelphia Celtic.
After a year Bob returned to Dublin where he renewed his association with Rovers. After his playing days Bob continued with the Hoops as a coach, a capacity he held until his departure to London in 1945.
His time with Rovers was littered with medals. In 1956 Bob was awarded damages in a libel case taken against the Sunday Dispatch for a story that the journalist admitted making up.
Fullam died in London 1 January 1974.
