retired_jmeshew

Excellent reading Wimb; I'm enjoying it a lot. Keep it up!

retired_kmkageler

Go for it Wimb! Good read this :thup:

retired_steffani

Thanks Emmenaar, Dr Hook and Jim good to see people are still reading and enjoying the story. Still plenty more to come


March 2008

More injury woes blighted the start of the month as we lost both Ryan Andrews and Dion Dublin for 2 weeks after a training ground collision. Both men had been instrumental in our success this season, Dublin especially, would be missed.

In other developments I was given the silver award in the monthly divisional awards. Alas no champers for the guy in second….

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Berwick (A) BSL D3 1/3/2008 W 2-0 Att. 642

Goal Scorers:Teggart (40), Ward (88)

Lineup:Blower, Trouten, Tulloch, Carter, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland (Hazley), Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart, Fitzpatrick (Ward)


David Blower passed a fitness test before the game to take his place in goal for the trip to Berwick, whilst Tulloch and Trouten would replace Dublin and Andrews at the back. This clash against a Berwick team who were fading out of playoff contention, would see us try and extend our 5 point lead at the top of the table over East Fife, one of 3 serious challengers, alongside Arbroath and Ayr. We played with a confidence and flair that had increasingly found its way into our performances and once Teggart finally broke the deadlock we never looked back. A battling display from Brian Blair ensured that any Berwick attacks were quickly stifled and we finished the game in style with substitute Tom Ward bagging our second. Defeat for East Fife meant that we had increased our lead to 7 points over Arbroath and that left me the happiest man in Scotland as we made the coach journey back to Hampden.


Ayr (H) BSL D3 D 1-1 8/3/2008 D 1-1 Att. 766

Goal Scorer:Teggart (33)

Lineup:Blower, Trouten, Tulloch, Carter, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart, Fitzpatrick


Ayr were 9 points behind us going into this game and defeat for them would surely end any lingering title hopes. By contrast we came into this game at Hampden Park full of confidence after our victory at Berwick and would be looking to reinforce our position at the top. As it would turn out we had to settle for a share of the points as Ayr snatched a last minute equaliser to cancel out Neil Teggart’s fine first half strike. Whilst frustrated to have dropped 2 points, the fact that we remained ubeaten and still 5 points clear at the top was the important thing, especially as our nearest rivals, Arbroath, would be our next trip.


Arbroath (A) BSL D3 15/3/2008 W 1-0 Att. 562

Goal Scorer:Teggart (81)

Lineup:Blower, Trouten, Tulloch, Carter, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart, Fitzpatrick (Ward)


So here we were, facing our nearest rivals knowing that a win would almost surely secure us the division, and promotion to the 2nd division. The match was crucial yet you wouldn’t know that looking in our dressing room, as the likes of Steve Fitzpatrick seemed more concerned with the look of their hair then the match at hand. But as kick off approached the mood turned more serious as the lads focussed on what they had to do. After a few last words of encouragement the lads ran out onto the ground in front of the disappointingly small crowd, hellbent on gaining the 3 points. From the kick off the game went back and forth with both sides thumping the post during the opening 45, but neither able to snatch a lead. Into the second half and even the introduction of super sub Tom Ward couldn’t find us a goal untill…. With 9 minutes of standard time left Bryan Hyland found himself in space on the left, with quick movement of the feet he danced around the right back before whipping a low cross into the box. The ball seemed to take an age as we stood in the dugout watching it sneak across the box, until the big boot of who else but Neil Teggart sent us and the travelling fans into raptures. In the pandemonium that followed we held out until the full time whilst being serenaded by chants of ‘ey ei ey ei ey ei o, up the football league we go’ and for the first time this season I let myself think….we’re actually going to do it.


East Stirling (H) BSL D3 22/3/2008 D 2-2 Att. 704

Goal Scorer:Fitzpatrick x2 (11, 28)

Lineup:Blower, Trouten, Tulloch, Carter, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland (Hazley), Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart (Ward), Fitzpatrick

After the highs of the win at Arbroath it was back to basics for the visit of East Stirling to Hampden Park. In a rather low key affair Steve Fitzpatrick bagged a brace to put us 2-0 up, but perhaps overconfidence had set in at the club, myself included, and we ended up conceding two late goals to end up sharing the points. Our lead at the top was now 10 points and with 5 to go, we could seal promotion away at Elgin the following Saturday.

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We recieved some brilliant news from the physio this week, as both Dublin and Andrews were cleared to resume playing duties and both would be included for the Elgin game.

I had to admitt to feeling a slight sense of trepidation in journeying to Elgin, for what could be the biggest match of my managerial career so far. But those who give in to the nerves are usually those who don't last very long and so i tried to put them to the back of my mind, and concentrate on the important thing. Simply getting 3 points.


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Elgin (A) BSL D3 29/3/2008 W 4-1 Att. 546

Goal Scorers:Teggart x2 (20, 59) , Dublin (41), Fitzpatrick (71)

Lineup:Blower, Andrews (Trouten) , Carter (Tulloch), Dublin, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart, Fitzpatrick (Ward)


Celebration time for everybody at Queens Park as we clinched promotion with 4 games to spare. We were 13 points clear with 4 to play, thus securing us a place in Division 2 as Champions. The 200 or so fans who had made the trip to Elgin were delirious with joy and so was everybody on the touchline and in the dressing room. At the end of my 3rd season in management I had gained my first trophy and I had to admit it felt absolutely amazing. The game itself seemed almost academic but for the record goals from Teggart x2, Dublin and Fitzpatrick helped us to a 4-1 victory. Unfortunately we couldn’t afford to totally party, as we still had 4 games to go, and owed it to the teams involved in the playoff race to remain focussed.

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What more can I say about the month other then PROMOTION. Enough said really.

March 2008 Review

League Record: P5 W3 D2 L0 GS 10 GC 4

Leading Scorers:

Neil Teggart25
Steve Fitzpatrick15

retired_steffani

April 2008


With the celebrations in full swing it was easy to forget that the season wasn’t quite over yet, and 4 games remained of hopefully our final year in the 3rd division. In training before the Dumbarton game Dion Dublin broke down with a niggling hamstring strain and faced sitting on the sidelines for a week or 2.

Meanwhile despite on field success things weren’t going quite as smoothly off the field as one member of the squad took the title celebrations as an excuse to miss training on the Monday. David Crawford our young reserve keeper had been making noises ever since David Blower had returned to the side, and when he didn’t turn up for training I took the chance to bring him into my office. I told him in no uncertain terms that he had acted unprofessionally and neither the title victory nor his lack of first team involvement was justification for skipping training. David looked stunned, as if he was innocent but the cold hard stare I gave him would ensure that he knew who was the boss around here.

More contract renewals were given now that I knew we would gain extra income, and Tom Ward and David Blower were 2 of the 5 or 6 players given a new contract to stay at Hampden for another season.

Finally in recognition of our fine form of the past month, I was rewarded with the manager of the month award and Neil Teggart was given the players award….one more bottle of champagne to take on the open top bus ride.

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.
Dumbarton (H) BSL D3 5/4/2008 W 2-0 Att. 701

Goal Scorers: Teggart (3), Fitzpatrick (50)

Lineup:Blower, Andrews (Trouten), Carter, Wilson, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland (Hazley), Blair, D.McKenna, Teggart, Fitzpatrick

Dumbarton rolled into Hampden on the back of a 3 game unbeaten run but we swiftly ended their streak thanks to the precision shooting skills of our two star forwards. Just 3 minutes into our promotion celebration day Teggart fired us ahead with a 20 yard bullet and for the rest of the first half we played carnival football, entertaining the 700 people who had turned out to see the Spiders in action. The second half followed much the same pattern with Fitzpatrick opening the half with a goal before we cruised In the final 40 minutes to claim 3 more points.



East Fife (H) BSL D3 12/4/2008 D 1-1 Att. 511

Goal Scorerublin (56 Pen)

Lineup:Blower, Andrews, Carter, Dublin, S. McKenna (c), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, Hamill, Teggart, D. McKenna


We went out onto the pitch as champions, but really didn’t look the part as we stuttered to a 1-1 draw at home to East Fife our nearest rivals in 2nd place. We didn’t really deserve the draw but the returning Dion Dublin made his 600th league appearance in football and marked the occasion with a well taken penalty to cancel out Fife’s 33rd minute opener.


Montrose (A) BSL D3 19/4/2008 L 0-3

Lineup:Blower, Andrews, Carter, Wilson, Dublin(c), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, Hamill, Teggart, D. McKenna


Ok, we had won the league already but the players needed to realise that they hadn’t gone on summer holidays quite yet. Our capitulation away at Montrose had been totally unacceptable and I locked the players in the dressing room for around an hour after the game to tell them in no uncertain terms that they would be 100% focussed on the final game against Albion. To emphasise the point I told them all that they would be training tomorrow and all week to make sure we were prepared. As for what happened earlier in the day, 3 first half goals had left a complacent side licking their wounds as we never looked in the game. Injury claimed Steve McKenna and Steve Fitzpatrick missed his second straight game through injury. However all the signs pointed to us having a fully fit side for our season finale against Albion.


Albion Rovers (H) BSL D3 26/4/2008 W 7-0 Att. 362

Goal Scorers:Fitzpatrick x4 (11,19,40,79) , Dublin (30 Pen), Campbell (88), Teggart (90)

Lineup:Blower, Andrews, Carter, Dublin (C), S. McKenna (Wilson), Campbell, Hyland, Blair, Hamill, Teggart, Fitzpatrick


We hoisted the trophy aloft in front of a shockingly low crowd at Hampden Park, but right then I couldn’t have cared less. We ended the season in amazing form recording a 7-0 hammering of Albion with 4 goals from Fitzpatrick and others from Dublin, Campbell and Teggart . The season had ended in the best possible way and as we went around our fantastic home with the trophy I could not have been more proud. The league season was now done and dusted, but for me the work for next season would begin Monday morning….but for tonight I had a few bottles of champers to drink.


April 2008 Review

League Record P4 W2 D1 L1 GS 10 GC 4


Leading Scorers:

Teggart27
Fitzpatrick20


Final Table 2007/2008


<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | C | Queen's Park | | 36 | 19 | 12 | 5 | 72 | 37 | +35 | 69 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | East Fife | | 36 | 16 | 9 | 11 | 52 | 42 | +10 | 57 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Arbroath | | 36 | 16 | 7 | 13 | 41 | 38 | +3 | 55 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Ayr | | 36 | 15 | 9 | 12 | 50 | 47 | +3 | 54 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | Elgin | | 36 | 14 | 10 | 12 | 49 | 45 | +4 | 52 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | Berwick | | 36 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 45 | 47 | -2 | 49 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Dumbarton | | 36 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 34 | 43 | -9 | 43 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Albion Rovers | | 36 | 13 | 3 | 20 | 40 | 59 | -19 | 42 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | Montrose | | 36 | 11 | 8 | 17 | 34 | 43 | -9 | 41 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | East Stirling | | 36 | 7 | 10 | 19 | 47 | 63 | -16 | 31 | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre>

retired_merri13

Nice job on the title Daniel :thup:

retired_steffani

Thanks Harwin, glad to see you're still reading


2007/2008 Season In Review


The season was a total success for the club as we combined success on the field with financial rewards off the pitch. The sale of Steve Notman to St Mirren would ensure the financial stability of the club for a good few years and the £60k prize money obtained from winning the league would help too. On a personal level I couldn’t have been happier and the harmony within the squad was outstanding, with 1 or 2 exceptions. But stood on the open top bus going through Glasgow I couldn’t have been happier and took the time to look back on the players performance over the last season.

Transfers Spent: £2k
Transfer Money Recieved £510k

Average Attendence: 771



Goalkeepers

David Blower Wal. 33y/o
Apps. 29 MOM 1 Avg. 6.83

Another solid season for the Welshman but at 33 his days as number 1 were coming to an end. David Crawford has improved steadily over the season and would be fiercly fighting to displace David from the No1 shirt.

David Crawford Sco. 22y/o
11 Aps. Avg. 6.73

The young Scot had been growing inpatient at having to play second fiddle to David Blower and I could see why. The lad had never let the side down and shown to be a more then capable deputy for the Welsh ‘stopper but even so his antics at missing training wouldn’t help his cause.

Defenders

Ryan Andrews Eng. 20y/o D R/L
Apps. 34 Assists. 4 Avg. 6.68

Ryan had performed steadily over the season but had not shown the class or talent necessary to be considered a starting choice right or left back, especially as we stepped up a level, Whilst useful cover, I would be looking to replace the Englishman over the summer.

Stephen McKenna Sco. 22 y/o D RC, DM
Apps. 37 Assists. 1 MOM 3 Avg. 7.30

An absolute star, Steve was monumental in our defence all season alongside Dion Dublin and whilst big Dion was soon to retire, the lessons Steve had learned would sensure we had at least 1 fantastic centre back next season.


Stephen Tulloch Sco. 20y/o DL
Apps. 12(3) Assists 1 Avg. 6.53

Stephen had done his job as cover for John Carter and had never looked out of his depth. However given the quality of JC it looks as if Stephen will face another year on the bench at best.

Jonathan Carter Sco. 20y/o D LC
Apps. 31(2) Assists 3 MOM 2 Avg. 6.97

JC had a marvellous season and thoroughly deserved his callup to the Scotland U19 side earlier in the year. His displays at both left back and centre back were exceptional and he would be a vital cog in our side next season.

Scott Wilson Sco. 26y/o DC
Apps. 12(3) 1 MOM 6.87 Avg.

Scott provided useful experience in a defence that ,Dublin excepted, was very young. Scott had been able to step in on a regular basis for any injuries to our centre backs and his attitude and commitment was having a positive affect on his younger peers. Should feature extensively next season with Dublin’s retirement.

Dion Dublin Eng. 39y/o DC, ST
Apps. 28 Goals 5, Assists 2, MOM 3, Avg. 7.21

Dion had already told us of his retirement plans at the start of the season and much as I tried to change his mind, he felt even more convinced that now was the right time to hang up his boots. His work both on the field in the heart of the defence, and on the training field, were massive assets to the club over the season and he can retire with his head very firmly held high.

Alan Trouten Sco. 22y/o DR
Apps. 6(4) Avg. 6.50

Things hadn’t really worked out for the youngster and the fact he couldn’t dislodge Ryan Andrews was proof enough that he didn’t have the quality to remain at the club. He was almost certain to be given a free transfer in the next couple of weeks.

Mark Ferry Sco. 24y/o DR, MR
Aps. 0(2) Avg. 6

Like Alan Trouten, Mark Ferry had never broken into the team on a regular basis and promotion ensured that to his stay at the club would soon be over.


Midfield

Alan Hamill N.I 22y/o DM
Apps. 36 Goals 4, Assists 5, MOM 1, Avg. 7.11

His workrate and tenacious attitude had won us a fair few games and his ability to knock in a few goals hadn’t done us any harm either. Alan had proved himself to be a quality central midfielder and would be a key part of next seasons plans.

Bryan Hyland Eire. 26y/o DM, AM L/C, FC
Apps. 16(6) Goals 1, Assits 6, MOM 3, Avg. 7.14

The versatile Irishman had surprised me with his consistent hard work and positive attitude during training, but what had pleased me even more was his ability to slot into any position and play well, be it centre midfield, left wing or even up front. Such versatility would be crucial next year.

Ross Campbell (On Loan) Sco. 20y/o AM R, ST
Apps. 17(8) Goals 1, Assists 5, Avg. 6.96

The on loan Hibs man had stepped into the void left by Steve Notman, and whilst not quite at the level of his predecessor, had proven to be a capable replacement. Hibs had shown a willingness to let Ross go and I would be doing my best to bring him to Hampden on a permanent basis.

Matthew Hazley N.I 20 y/o AM L
Apps. 22(10) Goals 1, Assists 4, MOM 3 Avg. 6.94

Matt had also deservedly won international honours this season and his displays on the left were of a very high quality. Towards the end of the season he found himself forced onto the bench by Bryan Hyland but he would be right in contention again come July.

Brian Blair Sco 25y/o AMC
Apps. 37, Goals 4, Assists 4, MOM 1, Avg. 7.11

Brian had been a real positive presence and one of our main creative outlets in the centre of midfield throughout the season, creating and scoring some vital goals on our way to promotion.


Forwards


David McKenna Sco. 21 y/o AM, FC
Apps. 9(4) 1 Goal, Avg. 6.54

David hadn’t had quite the impact I had hoped for when he signed from St Mirren in January. However his class was unquestionable and given a full pre season I’m sure he would provide a valuable contribution next season.

Tom Ward Eire. 22y/o ST
Apps. 1(11) Goals 3, Assists 1, MOM 1, Avg. 6.67

Tom had been our super sub consistently posing a threat when he came off the bench, but alas not showing the class to unseat Teggart or Fitzpatrick. Moreover given the signing of McKenna his playing time would be further limited. Therefore I would consider any offers for the striker without forcing him out of the club.

Neil Teggart N.I 23y/o ST
Apps. 39 Goals 27, Assists 7, MOM 2, Avg. 7.23

What can I say about Neil other then WOW. Neil took the golden boot and was the inspiration for our promotion. Just as they had at the end of last season Neil and Steve Fitzpatrick had combined with lethal effect and Neil was going to be the key to our survival next season.

Richie Bowers Sco. 21y/o ST
Apps. 0(7) Goals 1 Avg. 6.57

Richie hadn’t really progressed as much as I’d hoped and despite scoring his first senior goal for the club he would be facing the transfer list over the summer.

Steven Fitzpatrick Sco. 22y/o ST
Apps 37, Goals 20, Assists 9, MOM 1, Avg. 7.05

Our number 2 striker had a magnificent season and his haul of 20 goals would have been enough to win the golden boot most seasons. His youth made him a valuable asset and I was confident that the lad could make the step up next season.


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Award wise, Neil Teggart took the golden boot for the division as well as the fans and the players player of the year awards.


Stephen McKenna, Dion Dublin, Alex Hammil, Neil Teggart, Steve Fitzpatrick and Brian Blair were all named in the SPFA Team of the Year whilst I was named manager of the year and Neil Teggart the player of the year in the glitzy bash at Hampden.


In other developments Arsenal won the Premiership, Celtic the SPL, Inter Serie A and Sevilla La Liga. Championship side Leeds won a shock FA Cup and Rangers conquered Celtic to win the Scottish FA Cup. Juventus won the Champions League and Roma the UEFA Cup.

Meanwhile Euro 2008 was set to kick off with England and Scotland set to do battle in Group A. I would try and catch some matches where I could but the house badly needed more DIY and whilst I could dream of signing Rooney and McFadden, I would instead be trawling the depths of the English and Irish leagues over the summer.

retired_steffani

2008/2009 Preseason

Before the players all scattered for the summer I had to tell several players their services would no longer be required at the club. Steven Canning, Mark Robertson, Alan Trouten and Darren Burke were all at the end of their contracts and released on a free. Staff wise I recruited two new scouts in Micky Evans and Steve Jenkins and both were immediately deployed around the UK, along with the rest of our scouting team. We needed new faces if we were to compete next season and the sooner we got out there and identified our targets the better.

One bit of transfer business we were able to wrap up was the permanent capture of Ross Campbell from Hibs. The right winger had had a very successful loan spell and with 1 year left on his Hibs deal we were grateful that the SPL side agreed to let him sign for us on a free transfer. Ross signed a 3 year deal with the club and would be our starting right winger come opening day.

I also managed to negotiate agreements to sign two players who I had targeted in January but had been unable to sign in time, Shaun Leaver and Daniel Shatford . Shaun was a right back who had been playing for Welsh amateur side Bettws and would join us at the end of his contract for free. Daniel was an 18 year old tough tackling centre back who would join us from Irish side Crumlin Utd for £1,000 when the transfer window reopened on the 1st of June.

In the European Championships England fought their way to a 3-1 win over Scotland en route to a 1-0 win over Spain in the final, England rejoiced as Big Sam’s Barmy Army were on top for the first time in 42 years.

Our scout responsible for youth development, Alan Kavanagh recommended a number of young unattached players who we proceeded to sign over the coming weeks. John Litte, Stephen Gill, Michael Jenkins, Daniel Moore, Danny Brown, James Hart, Lee Watts, Steve Clarke, James Davis and Stuart Murray were all signed over the summer and they would be joined by one more experienced player. Rocco Quinn was a cultured central midfielder who signed for £4,000 from Ayr and would compete well with Hamill and Blair for a midfield berth.


Our Pre-season campaign was another disappointing affair as we drew 2 and lost 3 of our 5 games. Such results didn’t concern me though as we had encountered similar results last season and gone onto win the league. But the results broke down as follows. (our goalscorers in brackets)

Inverness CT (H) L 0-4
Vale of Leithen (A) D 3-3 (Hyland Teggart, Fitzpatrick)
St Mirren (H) L 1-4(Fitzpatrick)
Coldstream (A) L 0-2
Gretna (H) (H) D 0-0


Before we knew it preseason was over and we went into our maiden Second Division campaign optimistic of survival. The bookies made us favourites for the drop and 40-1 to win the league. But hey when are the bookies ever right?


Pre Season Review 2008/2009



Major Signings


Ross Campbell Sco. 20y/o AM R, STHibs £0k
Shaun Leaver Eng. 21y/o D R Bettws £0k
Daniel Shatford Eng. 18y/o DC Crumlin Utd £1k
Rocco Quinn Sco. 21y/o MC Ayr Utd £4k



Major Depatures (all stats are Queens Park career from 2005/2006 onward)



Stephen Canning Sco. 25y/o AMLReleased
6(7) Aps. 0 Goals

Mark Robertson Aus. 31y/o MCReleased
24(2) Aps. 1 Goal

Darren Burke Ire. 25y/o DCReleased
67(1) Aps. 1 Goal



Alan Trouten Sco. 22y/o DRReleased
20(9) Aps 0 Goals

retired_karamelkel

KUTGW Wimb! Nice steal on the Campbell deal!

retired_steffani

Thanks Hick appreciate the comments , it was a good signing, since Steve Notman left we really needed some quality down the right, forgot to mention Lancaster finished 14th last season...sadly going downward since i left....Barwood still slamming them home mind


2008/2009 Season

July/August 2008


We were all geared up for our debut season in the Second Division yet before we kicked off we had to face fellow Second Division side, Cowdenbeath, in the Challenge Cup. However we were rocked with the news that Neil Teggart would miss the opener with a sore thigh giving David McKenna a chance to shine.

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Cowdenbeath (A) Challenge Cup R1 26/7/2008 W 2-1 Att. 163

Goals:Campbell (24), D.McKenna (51)

Lineup: Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna (c), Campbell, Hazley, Blair, Hamill, D.McKenna (Ward), Fitzpatrick (Hart)

I viewed the challenge cup as little more then a glorified pre season friendly, but a good draw at home to a top 1st Division side would certainly have its benefits. Selection wise, David Crawford beat off David Blower for the start in goal whilst new signing Shaun Leaver started at right back and Daniel Shatford got the nod to replace the retired Dion Dublin at centre back. We started the game in a sluggish fashion but put ourselves ahead when Ross Campbell netted his first since his permanent transfer from Hibs with a neat half volley from a Matt Hazley cross on 24 minutes. Our lead was doubled straight after the break through David McKenna and whilst Cowdenbeath netted late on, we clung on to progress into the second round. As a final note James Hart became our youngest ever player when brought on in the 89th minute.



Brechin (A) BSL D2 2/8/2008 L 0-3 Att. 1005

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna (c), Campbell, Hazley, Blair (Quinn), Hamill (Watts), D.McKenna (Ward), Fitzpatrick (Teggart)

The biggest game for me since I joined the club was at Brechin as we took part in our first Second Division match. I kept faith with the side that had beaten Cowdenbeath but by full time I wish I hadn’t. The lads looked totally out of their depth conceding 2 early first half goals capped by an injury time 3rd from Brechin. The match was notable for the debut of young holding midfielder Lee Watts who replaced Hamill late on. The lad had shown a tremendous attitude in the reserves and U19’s and deserved his chance on the bench. Rocco Quinn also made his debut replacing Brian Blair but had a largely quiet debut. Even more importantly Neil Teggart made a late appearance and came through unscathed to ensure he would start away at Queen of the South in the CIS Cup.



Queen of the Sth (A) CIS Cup R1 5/8/2008 D 1-1 (W 3-2 on pens)Att. 1134

Goal. McKenna (88)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver (Andrews), Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna (c), Campbell, Hazley, Blair (Hyland), Watts, D.McKenna, Teggart (Fitzpatrick)

David McKenna’s late header set up a famous victory against Division One opposition for the club, as we progressed to the 2nd round of the CIS Cup. Our dramatic win was sealed when Ross Campbell hit the winning penalty but the night had turned on 43 minutes when the QOTS left back had seen red for a needless lunge on the right winger resulting in a straight red. From there we pummelled the QOTS defence and David’s header was our just reward. More important then the win was the prize money and potential gate receipts but for tonight we would justly savour our win. Another man celebrating was youngster Lee Watts who had made his full debut at the expense of Alex Hamill. Lee was improving by the day and nights such as this would only benefit the youngster in the long run.

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With the transfer window still open we signed Kevin Barkey on a free transfer from Airdrie. Kevin could play either down the middle or on the right side of midfield and his presence would hopefully inspire Ross Campbell to perform even better.

--------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
Cowdenbeath (H) BSL D2 9/8/2008 W 5-1 Att. 352

Goals:Teggart x4 (9,20,44,60), Watts (79)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna(c), Campbell, Hazley, Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick

Watts and Quinn both started as we looked to get our first points in Division Two in our first home game of the season. As it turned out we took all 3, and in some style demolishing Cowdenbeath 5-1 at Hampden Park largely thanks to Neil Teggart’s amazing solo display. The forward scored 4 in his first league start of the season and sent an emphatic message to the rest of the division. Lee Watts first goal in senior football capped a fantastic day for the club, and a fantastic week overall.


Forfar (A) BSL D2 16/8/2008 L 1-2 Att. 367

Goal:Teggart (71)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna (c), Campbell (Barkey), Hazley (Hyland), Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick (D.McKenna)

We came back down to earth at the hands of Forfar suffering a narrow defeat at the hands of our more established opponents. Despite Neil Teggart slotting home with 20 minutes to go it was all too little too late as two goals early in the second half condemned us to our second defeat in 3 league games. Despite the defeat I was pleased with the display from our defence who seemed to be gelling well after only a handful of games together, whilst Steve McKenna was proving to be a magnificent captain as he had been when filling in for Dublin last season. Still I knew that if we could repeat the sort of home displays, like we had in the Cowdenbeath game, then we would be safe from relegation come April/May.



Dunfermline (H) CIS Cup R2 19/8/2008 L 0-4 Att. 2292

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Wilson, S.McKenna, Barkey, Hazley (Hyland), Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick

Our SPL opponents proved to strong for our brave side as we went down to a comprehensive 4-0 defeat at the hands of Dunfermline at Hampden Park. Kevin Barkey made a full debut but couldn’t make an impact against the dominant Dunfermline defence. Defeat in games such as this was always made easier by the prize money we received and the receipts from a bumper 2292 crowd. Our run in the CIS Cup may have been short but the money received would be vital for the long-term stability of the football club.



Alloa (H) BSL D2 23/8/2008 D 1-1 Att. 356

Goal:Teggart (33)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Barkey, Hazley (Hyland), Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick (D.McKenna)

Neil Teggart was the Hampden Park hero once again as he helped the Spiders to secure a vital home point against Alloa. In an evenly contested match both sides had chances right from kick off, with Steve Fitzpatrick guilty of missing a sitter in just the 6th minute. Yet we didn’t have too long to wait to go ahead after Teggart drilled in a goal from just inside the area. Yet we quickly found ourselves back on level terms after the Alloa centreback nodded in an equaliser from a perfectly floated corner kick on 40 minutes. The second half was end to end as both sides went for a winner but in the end both keepers remained firm to ensure the scores remained level and both sides would go home with a point.


Stenhousemuir (A) Challenge Cup R2 26/8/2008 W 1-0 Att. 310

Goal: Hyland (61)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Hazley (Campbell), Hazley, Hyland (Hamill), Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick (D.McKenna)


Our 7th and final match of the opening month saw us beat Stenhousemuir 1-0 to go through to the 3rd round of the Challenge Cup. Both sides were clearly feeling the affects of a long month and somewhat predictably the game was settled with a single goal. Fortunately for us it was the boot of Bryan Hyland that did the business and gave us our ticket to the next round with a strike on the hour.

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Thus the month ended with a complete mix of results. Cup wise we had excelled reaching the 2nd round of the CIS and the 3rd of the Challenge Cup. Alas in the league we had suffered slightly and picked up only 4 points from a possible 12. Still we had a lighter September and I was positive that we could pick up form in the coming weeks with a bit of rest.

July/August 2008 Review

Transfers In:


Kevin Barkey 23y/o M RC (Airdrie Utd – Free)



League Record P4 W1 D1 L2 GS 7 GC 7
CIS Cup P2 W0 D1 L1 GS 1 GC 5
Challenge Cup P2 W2 D0 L0 GS 3 GC 1

Leading Scorers:

Neil Teggart6
David McKenna2

retired_steffani

September 2008

Before the window slammed shut at midnight on the 31st August I had managed to complete the loan signing of striker Ross McPherson from First Division Airdrie United. The loan was originally a 3 month agreement but could be extended beyond that if the arrangement worked out for both clubs. In injury news, Rocco Quinn was ruled out of our match with Stenhousemuir with an ankle knock with Hyland set to deputise.

In award news Neil Teggart was rewarded for his goalscoring efforts with the player of the month award, whilst Matt Hazley picked up 3rd place in the Young Players category.


Stenhousemuir (A) BSL D2 6/9/2008 W 2-1 Att. 337

Goals:Fitzpatrick (67), Teggart (77)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley, Hyland (Hamill), Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick


Neil Teggart capped a fantastic comeback for the Spiders as we battled back from a goal down to win our first away game in Division 2. Having fallen behind earlier it appeared that our hosts would claim revenge for our victory in the cup the week before but our lads wouldn’t settle for that. A superb second half display from our midfield provided the catalyst for our comeback and Steve Fitzpatrick slammed in the equaliser with 67 minutes gone. The home side looked shellshocked and couldn’t string passes together or make simple tackles as we began to steamroller our hosts. The winning goal came from, who else?, but Neil Teggart who headed home a Ross Campbell cross to seal our first 3 points away from home in Division 2.


St. Johnstone (A) Challenge Cup R3 9/9/2008 L 0-4 Att. 455

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley, Quinn (Blair), Watts, Teggart (McPherson), Fitzpatrick (D.McKenna)


St Johnston had been one of my first opponents as Queens Park manager and the result was very much the same nearly 2 years on, a thumping defeat. Truth be told I wasn’t expecting much from the game and viewed it as an annoyance and worried that it would break confidence in the side but we had to go and give it our all. Needless to say the result was predictable and a despondent group of players trudged back into the dressing room after a 4-0-demolition job. Still on the positive side 2 cups down 1 to go.

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More injury woes for the Spiders as Kevin Barkey was ruled out for 2-3 months with a broken ankle. Kevin had really begun to challenge Ross Campbell and the news was a bitter blow to the midfielder who knew his chances of securing a contract for next season was fading away.

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Stranraer (H) BSL D2 13/9/2008 W 2-0 Att. 635

Goals:Fitzpatrick (20), Teggart (62)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley, Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick (McPherson)

Once more our dynamic strike duo proved the decisive factor as we welcomed Stranraer to Hampden Park for a Second Division clash. In a tightly contested affair Steven Fiztpatrick put us ahead with a well placed shot after 20 minutes before Straraer laid siege to our goal forcing Crawford into several top drawer saves to keep us ahead. This pattern continued into the second period but out of nowhere Teggart got on the end of a long ball by Watts, broke free of the defence and fired low past the helpless Stranraer keeper to hand us 3 more vital points in our quest to survive.

Raith (H) BSL D2 17/9/2008 D 4-4 Att. 1177

Goals:Fitzpatrick x3 (9, 15, 43), Teggart (69)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley (Hyland), Quinn, Watts, Teggart , Fitzpatrick

Raith were one of the bigger names in the division and with Gretna to come the week after we knew that we were in for 2 of the most testing games of the season. So it was a pleasant surprise to start with a morale boosting, and entertaining, draw against the former SPL side. Steve Fitzpatricks first half hat-trick was a joy to behold as he helped put us 2-0 up, then 3-2 up as we went into the break. After Raith rallied in the second half to lead 4-3 Neil Teggart fired home to level things up and somewhat amazingly that was the last of the goals. A point at home to a side expected to be challenging for the title was a great result….alas I feared we might not be so fortunate away at Gretna.



Gretna (A) BSL D2 20/9/2008 L 0-3 Att. 2620

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley, Quinn, Watts, Teggart (Hart) , Fitzpatrick


In front of a passionate Gretna crowd we wilted under intense second half pressure to finally go down 3-0 away at league leaders Gretna. Despite a brave showing where we held our hosts for 57 minutes we were unable to come away with anything as Gretna turned the screw after they finally broke the deadlock and ran out deserved winners. After the match the lads were obviously disappointed but the message from myself was clear. If you play like that for the rest of the season we are going to be there or there abouts come April.


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We reinforced our reserves with the singing our young right back Craig Chisholm who we could sign due to him being unattached. In more transfer news both Mark Ferry and Tom Ward were officially placed on the transfer list. Both players had been told preseason they were surplus to requirements but both had insisted on staying to prove their worth. Now 2 months later they decided that it would be best to seek a potential buyer as soon as possible and the transfer list would help them to do so. Whilst Mark Ferry had struggled since my arrival, Tom Ward had plenty of talent but he just couldn’t compete with the strikers we currently had. I only hoped I wouldn’t be haunted by his departure….but I’d thought that before.

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Peterhead (A) BSL D2 27/9/2008 W 2-0 Att. 578

Goals:Campbell x2 (77,89)

Lineup:Crawford, Leaver, Carter, Shatford, S.McKenna, Campbell, Hazley (Hyland), Quinn, Watts (Hamill), Teggart (D.McKenna), Fitzpatrick


The visit to fellow relegation prospects Peterhead gave us a chance to pick up some more crucial away points and the lads didn’t let me down, securing a vital win for the Spiders. Ross Campbell hammered two past the Peterhead ‘keeper in the final 15 minutes to secure the points but in truth we should have had the game wrapped up well before that. Watts, Teggart and McKenna all spurned good chances to give us the lead, but our defensive pair of Shatford and S.McKenna ensured we weren’t punished for our wasteful finishing.



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September 2008 Review

A good month for the spiders as we picked up 3 crucial wins in our quest for survival. Predictably we were eliminated from the Challenge Cup but ultimately we benefited financially and being out of the cups so early might play into our hands come the later stages in the season.



League Record P5 W 3 D 1 L 1 GS 10 GC 9
Challenge Cup P1 W0 D0 L1 GS 0 GC 4

Leading Scorers:

Neil Teggart 9
Steve Fitzpatrick5