Mini Hampden Humbling

Queen's Park v Ayr United
Friendly
Monday 17th August, kick-off 7.15pm
Lesser Hampden, Glasgow

Had only heard about the match at the last minute but still opted for the short drive down the road to take it in, I didn't even know who was playing, just that Queen's were playing at Lesser Hampden. I normally prefer to park in the Hampden car park but due to the U2 concert the following evening their was no chance of that happening. God knows what state the Hampden turf will be in come Saturday's top of the table league game against Albion Rovers after Bono and his muckers are done with it.

Even when walking round to the stand it wasn't obvious who the opposition were, kitted out in blue shorts and red tops. Eventually it was clear it was Ayr United, I recognised a few senior players such as Neil McGowan, Kenny Connolly and Alistair Woodburn along with some youngsters I remembered from the EK Tournament. They also had Stephen Grindlay in goals, although he was kitted out in the sky blue Queen's kit. The Spiders side mainly consisted of players that weren't involved in Saturday's game at Elgin, Ryan Holms the only one to start both games. Queen's also gave a start to veteran player/coach Paul Ronald who seems to now have ginger hair and a Robbie Savage look-a-like trialist on the left side of midfield.

Queen's left back Paul Burns suffered an early injury and was replaced by youngster Gavin Lachlan which lead to a defensive reshuffle with Paul McGinn moving to the left and Lachlan to the right of a back four. The Honest Men appeared to have a more experienced line-up and it was showing as they dominated the first half, they took the lead after about half an hour with a close range header, then doubled their lead bang on half-time with a simple placed finish.

Ayr continued their dominance in the second period and added a further three goals, one an unlucky own goal by Spiders 'keeper Zander Cowie when the ball struck the post, then hit off him then into the net. The best Queen's could muster up was close range efforts by Paul McGinn and David Green, but both were dealt with comfortably by Grindlay between the sticks. Obviously it was just a run out for both sides but not the most enjoyable game after I'd only just witnessed my team winning for the first time in months prior to this match.

Result: Queen's Park 0-5 Ayr United

Line-ups
Queen's Park: Cowie, McGinn, Burns (Lachlan), Reilly, Brough, Green, Trialist, Dunlop, Ronald (Hamilton), Murray, Holms (Nadeem).
Ayr United: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Queen's Park: none
Ayr United: unknown

Attendance: unknown

Paper Talk

Queen's Park v Daily Record XI
Friendly
Monday 27th July 2009, kick-off 7.30pm
Lesser Hampden, Glasgow

A rather strange fixture at Lesser Hampden last Monday evening when a Queen's side mainly featuring players that didn't play the full game on Saturday played hosts to Daily Record's 'Gie's a Game' team. With many young players getting released from their clubs to cut costs the Daily Record newspaper setup a campaign to help them find new clubs, so scouts and a few managers were in attendance to watch with interest. There was only around thirty or so spectators although I did recognise Brechin City manager Jim Duffy and Dumbarton gaffer Jim Chapman in attendance.

The 'Gie's a Game' side had recently lost 9-3 to Clyde in a match that must have set some bizarre record of being the game with the least signed players. Queen's fielded an unsigned player themselves, Steven Odunewu, who has yet to win a deal, he was partnered with Frankie Carroll upfront as the Spiders setup in a 4-4-2 formation. The opposition were in all dark blue kits with the Daily Record logo plastered on the front, unfortunately I didn't recognise any of their players but I overheard that one of the strikers came through the ranks at Rangers.

It was a sloppy start by Queen's and the Daily Record boys looked comfortable on the ball, if I didn't know what team had just be thrown together I would've guessed the team in the black and white hoops. They took a deserved lead when their ex-Rangers no.9 striker capitalised on a defensive slip and cheekily chipped the onrushing Zander Cowie in the Queen's goal. It seemed to wake Queen's up as they started to pile on some pressure. Odunewu found himself back to goal and ten yards out, he took his time in turning on working the half yard of space before finding the net.

The second half didn't produce much entertainment, Odunewu was replaced by a trialist striker at the break and the Daily Record lads make several changes. Later on in the half Queen's veteran man of all positions, Paul Ronald, took to the field for the first time after missing out on the pre-season action. The Spiders went on to win the game with a superb run out finish by David Murray, although one of the defenders he took it round was already limping.

Result: Queen's Park 2-1 Daily Record XI

Line-ups
Queen's Park: Cowie, McGinn, Burns, Sinclair, Reilly, Green (Ronald), Holms, Dunlop, Odunewu (Trialist), Carroll, Murray.
Daily Record XI: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Queen's Park: Steven Odunewu and David Murray
Daily Record XI: unknown

Attendance: unknown

Time's Up Lads

Rutherglen Glencairn v Cumbernauld United
Friendly
Tuesday 21st July 2009, kick-off 6.30pm
Toryglen Regional Football Centre, Glasgow

Another friendly match and it was to be my first visit to the new Toryglen Regional Football Centre, an impressive complex, to see local side Rutherglen Glencairn play Cumbernauld United. Glens won promotion and the title from the Central Division One last season, the league that United will be playing in, and are preparing for life in Super First Division. Around twenty or so fans turned up in the heavy rain, that thankfully stopped for kick-off as there was no shelter. The referee was the last to show up and they were no linesmen for the game.

The Glens struck first, Paul McLaughlin tapping in at the second attempt after a chipped through ball caught out the Cumbernauld defence. There appeared to be only one team in it with the Glens very much of top and McLaughlin causing havoc in the United defence. A rather bizarre goal got Cumbernauld on level terms against the run of play, a deflected clearance spun up in the air travelling towards the Glens 'keeper. He shouted “it's coming, it's coming”, then after it bounced he changed his mind and yelled: “it's no!”, the ball ended up trickling into the net after the 'keeper, a defender and a striker all challenged for it.

McLaughlin continued to terrorise the United defenders and won a free-kick on the edge of the area after being tripped. He picked himself up and casually banged it into the far top corner, someone said: “peach!”, it certainly was. Half-time came and the sun peered through the grey clouds as the Glens made several changes to their side, McLaughlin sadly went off, I fancied him to get his hat-trick, but Paul McDougall replaced him, an entertaining character. I was also surprised to see ex-Spider Div Waters, who's presumably on trial for Glencairn at the moment, he captained the Hampden XI side to amateur cup glory last season but was still released by Queen's.

The pattern of play had changed dramatically and United were looking more likely to equalise instead of Glens running away with it, a bit of bickering amongst the Glens ranks as things weren't going they're way. But again, against the run of play the opposition scored, Glens were awarded a penalty after their tall central midfielder was tripped in the box, and McDougall coolly stroked it in (below, right). United continued to press on as the majority of the play was in the Glens defensive half, they were awarded a free-kick on the angle just outside the area. On the off chance I decided to video it, a wise move as it was hit into the far corner (below, left), similar to McLaughlin's first-half free-kick.

United were pushing for a late equaliser but time seemed against them, but not in the usual manner. I assume the pitch was only booked until eight o'clock as another team were waiting at the side of the pitch to begin training, and a horn had just been sounded to signal time-up. The referee blew his whistle soon after, but I made it around five or so minutes left to play. The Rutherglen Glencairn website has a match report.

Result: Rutherglen Glencairn 3-2 Cumbernauld United

Line-ups
Rutherglen Glencairn: Turner (McNeil), Kerr (Trialist), Paul (Barr), Trialist (Kane), Palmer (Trialist), Thompson (Trialist), O'Keane (Gentile), Hopkins (McShane), McArdle (Trialist), McLaughlin (McDougall), Carr (Trialist).
Cumbernauld United: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Rutherglen Glencairn: Paul McLaughlin (2) and Paul McDougall (pen)
Cumbernauld United: unknown

Attendance: unknown

Bloody Cheerleaders!

Albion Rovers v Celtic XI
Friendly, Jock Stein Friendship Cup
Monday 20th July 2009, kick-off 3pm
Cliftonhill Stadium, Coatbridge

Off to Cliftonhill via the train, and I was given the kind offer of a swig of Buckfast from a few bevvied up Celtic fans after I gave them directions to the ground. The match was a friendly affair to mark the relationship between the two clubs due to their former great player, and manager in Celtic's case, Jock Stein. The Wee Rovers ground isn't in the best of conditions, and only one stand is in use these days, the main stand is out-dated with hard wooden seats with next to no leg room. I opted to stand on the terracing in front of the stand, leaning of the freshly painted barrier, painted grey for some reason, fairly certain they were red and yellow before which seemed more appropriate.

Celtic fielded very much a reserve style side with the first team not long back from their Australian tour and preparing for the weekend Wembley Cup games. The Bhoys were managed by Neil Lennon after previous reserve gaffer Willie McStay moved to Ujpest for a management role. Recognisable names is the Celtic line-up were Cillian Sheridan, Paul McGowan and Ryan Conroy, whilst the Wee Rovers were without influential centre-half Todd Lumsden after he picked up a ligament injured in their 6-0 friendly win over Selkirk. Plenty of the Bhoys faithful fans made the short journey on Fair Monday to see their side, the stand was packed, which is a rarity at Cliftonhill. They were in good spirits, some literally, bouncing up and down, singing and waving huge flags, the Wee Rovers fans of course sang their one song repeatedly, AR-ARF-ARFC-OK! Lyrical genius. Tribute songs were also sang about Celtic legend John Hartson who is currently battling against cancer.

Celtic started the brighter with McGowan buzzing about, but it was the Wee Rovers that had the first real chance, a long range effort that had beaten Celts 'keeper Scott Fox but crashed off the crossbar. Rovers goalie Derek Gaston was by far the busier, making several great saves to deny Celtic taking a first-half lead. Half-time brought about the dreaded cheerleaders, I despise this at football games now, it's cringe worthy stuff, although I wouldn't be complaining if they were more my age. That wasn't the only form of entertainment for the interval with a local boys club having a wee beat the 'keeper game, having to run from the half-way line and attempt to score in ten seconds.

The second-half started to become a bit of a borefest and proceedings began to drag on. Out of nowhere Celtic created a clear-cut chance for Sheridan, who slipped and missed from yards out. Sheridan looked to have made amens as he provided an assist for a seemingly well worked goal, but it was flagged for offside. Things continued to peter out towards the closing stages, then three golden chances were created. Either side of Celtic goal bound headers that were both cleared off the line by Rovers defenders, Pollock had a great opportunity to win for the Wee Rovers after a strong run, but unfortunately couldn't apply a finish. So off to penalties for the third match in succession for me, which can be viewed below, apologies about those bloody cheerleaders opting to block more peoples vision by spacing out.

Celtic finally, and I mean finally, triumphed 5-4 in the shoot-out, leaving me three minutes to sprint for the train, I really didn't fancy an extra thirty minutes in Coatbridge. Many positives for the Wee Rovers though who competeted well and didn't seem out their depth, a bumper crowd will also be benefical revenue wise. I doubt the watching Tony Mowbray and Peter Grant will have been overly impressed by any of the Celtic performances.

Next up for the Rovers is a trip to the seaside to play Ayr United in the Challenge Cup, their first competitive outing of the season. Tony Mowbray and his Bhoys will travel down to London to play in the Wembley cup with Al-Ahly, Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur over the coming weekend. Many photos from the day can be found on Paul Reilly's website, and my YouTube video of the shoot-out here. Another website with video highlights is Randalstown CSC, Down the Wing blogger also attended this fixture, his photo's can be found here.

Result: Albion Rovers 0-0 Celtic XI, Celtic XI won 5-4 on penalties

Line-ups
Albion Rovers: unknown
Celtic XI: Fox, Gallacher, Kurakins, Ferry, Marr, Lafferty, Conroy, Millar, Sheridan, McGowan, McGinn.

Goalscorer(s)
Albion Rovers: none
Celtic XI: none

Attendance: unknown

Jags On The Spot

East Kilbride Thistle v Alloa Athletic
Friendly, Tommy McGrane Cup, Final
Sunday 19th July 2009, kick-off 3.30pm
Showpark, East Kilbride

Now for the main event, the final of the Tommy McGrane Cup to be contested by Alloa Athletic and hosts East Kilbride Thistle. Both triumphed yesterday by three goal margins against Petershill and Ayr United U19s respectively. Sunshine welcomed the two teams onto the pitch and pre-match photos were taken, the Wasps kitted out in their Portugal style away jersey and the Jags in their usual black and white stripes. Alloa fielded a more youthful side than their previous match with highly rated striker Greig Spence leading the line with the experienced Brian 'Carrots' Carrigan.

It was youngster Hugh Kerr who opened the scoring early on, continuing from where he left off after bagging two against Peasy in yesterdays match. He was slipped through on goal approaching from the right wing and he slotted under the advancing 'keeper. Alloa seemed to be dominating the play and possession early on but it was the Jags who had the best chances, missing a simple diving header at the back post and producing a fine save from the young Wasps goalie. A bit of magic brought about the equaliser, Steven 'Dunga' McClung playing a neat one-two and passing it into the bottom corner, similar to the superb goal he bagged against the young Honest Men. The first bookings of the tournament were dished out, three in fact, all for foul language seemingly.

The second-half was the half of missed chances, by Alloa, first up was an almost inch perfect own goal lob by an EK defender, but it was headed off the line. Youngster Spence then had a near post effort well saved and 'Carrots' close range follow up was deflected over the bar. Spence then had another great opportunity, this time heading off the upright from a corner kick delivery. Late on young substitute striker was played clean through, but yet again Johnny Murdoch, the Jags 'keeper produced a fine save to send the final to a penalty shoot-out. The first match of the day provided the first penalty shoot-out I'd seen in the flesh for well over a year, a bit like buses for me with two in the one day.

There seemed like no missing from the spot as both sides found the net with each of their first six attempts. Finally one of the Alloa kids missed the target but the following Jags spot-kick was wonderfully saved. The EK 'keeper proved to be the hero in the end by saving the next Wasps effort, then the winning penalty was converted meaning the Jags would be crowned as winners of the Tommy McGrane Cup. The full penalty shoot-out can be viewed below.

The Wasps will now continue their preparations for the season ahead in the SFL Second Division, hoping for an improved campaign after successfully fighting against relegation last season. Most of the youngsters on show today will be keen to gain more first team action or perhaps even going out on loan for experience. The Jags will be hoping to push for promotion, and will continue with their superb youth and community work. I've really enjoyed the weekend of football and will hopefully be back again next year when the Jags hope to retain their trophy.

Photos that I've taken throughout the weekend can be found here, and the video of the penalty shoot-out can be found on YouTube. Again the Alloa Athletic website has a report on the match which contains photos also.

Result: East Kilbride Thistle 1-1 Alloa Athletic, East Kilbride Thistle won 7-6 on penalties

Line-ups
East Kilbride Thistle: Murdoch, Sangster, Russell (McGhee), Kelly, Hefron, Jordan, Ballantyne (Paris), Williamson, McClung, Watson (McKenna), Fooley (Struthers).
Alloa Athletic: Hall (Thomson), Anderson, Philp, Duncan, Feenan, Barker, Kerr, Carroll (Thomson), Spence (Clark), Carrigan (MacKenzie), Stevenson (Caven).

Goalscorer(s)
East Kilbride Thistle: Steven McClung
Alloa Athletic: Hugh Kerr

Attendance: unknown

Third 'Keeper Lucky

Petershill v Ayr United U19s
Friendly, Tommy McGrane Cup, Third Place Play-Off
Sunday 19th July 2009, kick-off 12pm
Showpark, East Kilbride

I returned to Showpark for the second day on the trot to view the losers affair between Petershill and the Ayr United youngsters. The Peasy lost out 4-1 to a strong Alloa Athletic side in a physical encounter whilst the young Honest Men were taught a lesson by the EK Jags, losing out 3-0 in wet conditions. Up for grabs this early afternoon was a third placed finish and the dreaded wooden spoon in the Tommy McGrane Cup. Inflation was rife as I went for the same hot-dog and Irn-Bru combination from the previous day, £2.50 yesterday, now £3! Confused? I was. Not to worry though, you could get an alcoholic beverage from the club bar, even before 12.30pm on a Sunday!

Hot-dog and Bru in hand the match began and the youngsters were taking the game to their senior opposition. Both sides had made several changes from the day before with the Peasy fielding several trialists, one of which was ex-Queen's 'keeper Scott Murray. Unfortunately for him it was to be a short outing ending with him being stretchered off injured. He raced out to close down Jonathan Tiffoney and managed to force him wide, then went over in a heap. Similar to the incident in an Everton v West Ham United game when Paulo Di Canio caught the ball because the goalkeeper being down injured, instead of heading into the open goal, although in this instance young Tiffoney played on and hit the crossbar. Off went Murray and without a substitute 'keeper the Peasy played a member of their coaching staff between the sticks.

Half-time came, and the cheerleaders were on yet again but sadly, or thankfully, their routine was cut short as the players were out early to continue the action. Another change in goals for Peasy, a strange one, substitute Ayr United U19s goalie who played in yesterdays match had changed allegiance. The deadlock was finally broken by the dodgy haired sub left-back for Petershill, he headed in from barely a yard after a corner kick. The lead didn't last long as the kids his straight back, a strong run by their no.9 who out muscled the Peasy defender and beat the (should that be, his own?) 'keeper.

The floodgates had finally opened, thankfully not in the weather sense this time, as a lofted ball over the Honest Men's defence fell to the Peasy frontman who hooked the ball into the right corner to restore their lead. Credit to the youngsters who didn't drop their heads, a few substitutes then they got what they deserved. A whipped in free-kick saw their goalscorer hit the upright with a close range header, it then fell kindly to their ginger haired central midfielder who tapped in the open goal. The match finished two apiece and the wooden spoon would be settled by a penalty shoot-out. Which Ayr 'keeper would be the hero?

A bizarre scenario then, Peasy converted their first penalty then it was a save each. Penalties were converted up until the sudden-death stage, then one more each. Peasy converted again, then finally the Ayr sub 'keeper tipped one round the post to win the tie for Peasy. The full shoot-out can be viewed below. Petershill will now continue their preparations for their Super Premier League campaign and the Ayr kids will have learnt a lot ahead of another season a youth level.

My photos from the weekend can be found here, and the YouTube video of the penalty shoot-out here.

Result: Petershill 2-2 Ayr United U19s, Petershill won 6-5 on penalties

Line-ups
Petershill: unknown
Ayr United U19s: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Petershill: unknown
Ayr United U19s: unknown

Attendance: unknown

From Celtic Park To Showpark

Alloa Athletic v Petershill
Friendly, Tommy McGrane Cup, Semi-Final
Saturday 18th July 2009, kick-off 3.30pm
Showpark, East Kilbride

The second match of the Tommy McGrane Cup was welcomed by a downpour of rain. A similar crowd to the previous match of around one-hundred, mostly under the sheltered stand, was there to see the Wasps take on Peasy. Allan Maitland had brought a full-strength team and was hopeful of continuing a good pre-season that has already seen his side win the Keyline Cup up in Oban. A few familiar faces in both sides, with ex-Spiders Adam Coakley playing as a trialist upfront for the Wasps and Michael Keenan in the Peasy midfield. Petershill also had ex-Stranraer defender James McKinstry in their line-up, there tends to be some form of 'entertainment' when he's around.

Alloa started the better of the two sides in the tricky conditions and it wasn't long until they took the lead. Adam Coakley swivelled and hit a half volley into the bottom corner, something he didn't do enough of for my liking in a Queen's jersey, although he did score against Celtic in the Scottish Cup. From Celtic Park to Showpark, very different surroundings. Peasy began to grow into the half as it progressed and were awarded a penalty after a handball in the box, which was converted (below) to level the scores at one apiece. It remained that way into the half-time interval and the cheerleaders were out again to entertain us.

The second-half started and a female fan behind me opted to use a bin as a seat, prepared with her snacks she made herself at home, judging by her appearance it may have been, nonetheless it was bizarre. Wasps assistant James Ward continued as he did last season with his constant bickering at the officials, I'm convinced that this man eats, drinks and dreams about fouls. Thankfully the referee gave as good as he was receiving and said he'd start booking players if that's what he wanted, but there was no need in a friendly game, it was all physical yet fair.

The Wasps were beginning to pin the Peasy defence back and were finally rewarded, the ball was cut back to Hugh Kerr who took a touch and volleyed in. He was to become to man of the moment when he doubled their lead minutes later, Scott Agnew's drilled effort was cleared off the line by James McKinstry but Kerr followed up finding the bottom right corner. Further misery for Peasy and McKinstry soon followed in the final minute as he was caught in possession. Brian Carrigan was played through on goal, his first scuffed effort was saved but he coolly volleyed in at the second attempt.

That was to be the final action of the game and helped confirm the fixtures for the following day. Petershill and Ayr United U19s will now go head-to-head at noon with the final between hosts East Kilbride Thistle and Alloa Athletic kicking off at half three. Unfortunately I couldn't make it along to St. Andrews for Queen's Park's friendly with Arbroath, which finished 1-1 (report on Un-official website), but I enjoyed the festival of football at the Showpark ground. A few photo's can be found here and a youtube link to the penalty video. The Alloa Athletic website also has a small report with photos.

Result: Alloa Athletic 4-1 Petershill

Line-ups
Alloa Athletic: unknown
Petershill: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Alloa Athletic: Adam Coakley, Hugh Kerr (2) and Brian Carrigan
Petershill: unknown (pen)

Attendance: unknown

Brazilian Magic

East Kilbride Thistle v Ayr United U19s
Friendly, Tommy McGrane Cup, Semi-Final
Saturday 18th July 2009, kick-off 12pm (delayed)
Showpark, East Kilbride

A weekend feast of football as the junior clubs begin their pre-season fixtures. The annual tournament at East Kilbride Thistle's Showpark was my destination as four teams battle it out over two days for the Tommy McGrane Cup. Tommy was former club secretary at the Jags and a big part of the football club, but he sadly passed away in 1984. His wife is still involved with the club and she will be presenting the trophy to the winners alongside her two sons. The teams competing are Allan Maitland's Alloa Athletic, Glasgow junior side Petershill, Ayr United U19s and of course East Kilbride Thistle, the latter of the two are first up. The two winning sides will play it out for the cup late afternoon on Sunday with the two losing sides providing the support act beforehand, if any ties end in a draw they go straight to penalty kicks. The programme for the weekend is as follows:

Saturday 18th July
9am – East Kilbride Thistle Girls U15s v Falkirk Girls U15s
12pm – East Kilbride Thistle v Ayr United U19s
2pm – East Kilbride Thistle Youth Development
3.30pm – Alloa Athletic v Petershill
Sunday 19th July
9am – East Kilbride Thistle U21s v East Kilbride Thistle U19s
12pm – Third Place Play-Off
2pm – East Kilbride Thistle Youth Development
3.30pm – Final

On arrival I opted to park in the nearby street opposed to the home of potholes that was the car park. I purchased the weekend ticket for a tenner, not bad for all of the above, and 'The Jag Mag' (top right) tournament programme for £1.50. I visited the ground towards the end of last season for a meaningless league match against Girvan, EK losing out 1-0 in a dismal affair. Since then a lot of work has been done on the ground with the fences and sheltered stand painted, which looked quite impressive. The stand is about twenty yards back from the pitch and has a snack shop at one end, which sell high quality hot-dogs. The pitch is given a unique, old-fashioned appearance because of the square goalposts which must be very rare now, I recall Montrose having them before they changed to the plastic surface. I personally liked the ground, it had a bit of character despite totally lacking in atmosphere.

Kick-off was delayed for around fifteen minutes for some unknown reason, as a crowd of about one-hundred or so waited patiently in wet conditions. Whilst waiting some kids were blowing bubbles, perhaps they were young West Ham fans. Eventually the teams came out, The Jags in black and white stripes and the young Honest Men in all white. Ex-Jags midfielder Jonathan Tiffoney moved to Ayr United in the summer and was on bench this afternoon.

The Jags looked the better side in the early stages and had the ball cleared off the line as the Ayr youngsters took their time to settle. I noticed that EK frontman Steven McClung was being referred to as 'Dunga' by his team-mates, a belter of a nickname! It took half an hour for the experience to tell, Jags left full-back bombed forward down the wing and fired the ball across the goal, 'Dunga' reacted quickly at the near post to open the scoring. Late in the half the Jags struck the square crossbar from distance as they began to dominate, half-time thankfully came for the youngsters. The entertainment was provided by cheerleaders, I've never understood this at football games, especially when it's young girls, but EK Thistle seem to have a great relationship with the local community with things like this, ladies teams and various youth teams.

An amusing moment at the beginning of the second period as blocked cross deflected out and knocked a fan off the pitch side fence, who stumbled and fell onto the park, it arguably received the biggest cheer of the day and of course he was okay. EK doubled their lead after a volleyed shot-come-cross by Ross Ballantyne was headed in, and it was all one-way traffic. A superb third goal was then added, 'Dunga' turned his man expertly and played a one-two with his strike partner, then opened up his body to stroke it past the advancing 'keeper, beautiful! Straight after young Tiffoney came on for an early Showpark return and gave the Ayr youngsters some much needed energy, a few efforts from distance was all he could manage though.

The match finished 3-0 to Thistle and they'll play the winners of the next match between Alloa Athletic and Petershill tomorrow, Ayr United U19s will play the losers from that encounter. Some of my pictures from the day can be viewed here.

Result: East Kilbride Thistle 3-0 Ayr United U19s

Line-ups
East Kilbride Thistle: unknown
Ayr United U19s: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
East Kilbride Thistle: unknown
Ayr United U19s: none

Attendance: unknown

Guess Who's Back

Queen's Park v Clyde
Friendly
Monday 13th July 2009, kick-off 7.15pm
Lesser Hampden, Glasgow

I made the short journey down the road to Lesser Hampden again for another 'closed-door' friendly, this time Queen's were hosting the trialists of Clyde. Being unsure of the kick-off time, with seven and half past being mentioned I wondered down for the former time, of course it was neither, around quarter past proceedings got under way on a wet evening. With the rain coming down the small shelter was packed with a few fans braving the elements, and even a few more wise spectators watching from the windows in the social club.

The clubs last met in the first round of the League Cup last season, a very different looking Clyde side won comfortably, 4-1 with double from veteran striker Gary McSwegan. The fixture represents a bit of a derby from before my time, when both teams were in the same division and Clyde played at Shawfield before moving to Cumbernauld. With the combination of the move and both sides not being in the same league for some time now the rivalry has died.

With the rain constantly coming down the synthetic pitch looked slick and perfect for football. Disliked Bully Wee manager John Brown received a bit of abuse as he made his way over to the dugout, even at a 'closed-door' match he can't avoid it. Queen's settled first and were quick out the traps as they controlled the early stages as both teams started with 3-5-2 formations with wing backs. The Spiders opened the scoring from a Paul Harkins corner which was headed across the goal then in by James Brough. A whipped free-kick from Barry Douglas was headed off his own post by a Clyde defender, the Bully Wee trialists struggled to get into the game as Queen's passed to ball around them without creating many more clear-cut chances.

Plenty of changes at half-time as expected, ex-Queen's midfielder John Neill came on as a trialist for Clyde. The beginning of the second period also seen the return of Frankie Carroll, a fans favourite at Hampden, the diminutive frontman was always a class act and is currently trying to win a contract back at Queen's after two years out of the game.

Clyde started the half with much more purpose and put the pressure on the Spiders, it didn't take them long to get on level terms. A cross to the back post was headed downwards by trialist Alan Lithgow, despite it being straight at Queen's 'keeper Zander Cowie he could only palm it over the line. Queen's continued with more changes to the team as the match progressed and spurned two late chances to win the match. Ross Dunlop and Frankie Carroll took turns at close in rugby conversions.

Another good pre-season workout, and Clyde gaffer John Brown would've been pleased to have another good look players and will need to make signings soon with the beginning of the season fast approaching. Next up for the Bully Wee is their first public friendly against fellow Glasgow side Partick Thistle at Broadwood Stadium. Queen's will now travel to St. Andrews for a weekend training camp and will play Arbroath in a friendly at the university playing fields.

The Un-official Queen's Park website also has a match report.

Result: Queen's Park 1-1 Clyde

Line-ups
Queen's Park: Cowie, Ure (Hamilton), Douglas (Trialist), Walker, Brough, Burns, Trialist, Tiernan (Dunlop), Watt (Odunewu), Daly (Carroll), Harkins (Murray).
Clyde: Trialist (Trialist), Trialist, Trialist (Trialist), Trialist, Trialist, Trialist, Trialist (Trialist), Trialist (Stevenson), Trialist, Trialist (Howarth), Trialist (Trialist).

Goalscorer(s)
Queen's Park: James Brough
Clyde: Trialist

Attendance: unknown

Watt A Day

Queen's Park v Fleetwood Town
Friendly
Saturday 11th July 2009, kick-off 3pm
National Centre Inverclyde, Largs

As the support act of Crawley Town and Albion Rovers departed Queen's Park and Conference North side Fleetwood Town continued to 'warm-up' on the same sloped pitch. If the term warm-up was to be taken literally there would be no need for it, unfortunately for the players it wasn't as the temperatures continued to rise. The Fishermen's gaffer Micky Mellon opted to begin his clubs pre-season preparations in the country of his birth, whilst Spiders head coach Gardner Speirs had taken his side away for weekend training to the seaside of Largs. With the glorious weather some fans made the most of it and came prepared with their own carry out.

Straight from kick-off Fleetwood surged forward and forced Queen's 'keeper Zander Cowie into a brilliant save. The match soon settled and a bit of amusement when the ball got stuck in a tree, the ball was technically still on the field of play (wonder what the official ruling is on that, play on?), but the referee awarded a throw-in. The Fishermen were forced into an early change of 'keeper and sixteen year old Kieran O'Boyle was thrown into the action. It was his poor kick that resulted in the opening goal as Spiders striker Ian Watt pounced to control and then round the helpless 'keeper before rolling the ball over the line.

At half-time a few changes were made and Queen's went to a 3-5-2 formation for the second period. With about an hour on the clock Fleetwood equalised against the run of play as a cross to the back post was nodded in by Lee Dodgson. Queen's responded well as Barry Douglas fired in a free-kick which was met by James Brough who headed in to restore the lead.

Hesitation in the Fleetwood defence allowed Spiders livewire Ian Watt nip in to net his second goal of the afternoon. The young substitute 'keeper continued with his horrible afternoon by gifting another goal away, this time presenting Michael Daly with an open goal. Eventually the ball fell out of the tree late into the second-half (perhaps Fleetwood would've just preferred they played on with the ball stuck up there).

The match finished 4-1 to Queen's and apart from getting sun burn it was good viewing. One of the Fleetwood staff gave me a badge of their club crest after the match which has left me with a nice opinion of their club who also played in a sporting manner, I wish them all the best for next season. They now travel back to England for some more friendlies as their pre-season continues. Next up for Queen's Park is a closed-door friendly against Clyde at Lesser Hampden on Monday evening.

Photos from the match can be found on the Fleetwood Town website and the Un-official Queen's Park site. Also a report from the Blackpool Gazette.

Result: Queen's Park 4-1 Fleetwood Town

Line-ups
Queen's Park: Cowie, Ure (Walker), Douglas (Trialist) Sinclair (Trialist), Brough, Dunlop (Capuano), Hamilton (Henry), Tiernan, Watt, Daly, Harkins (Trialist).
Fleetwood Town: Hurst (O'Boyle), Wolliscroft (Beeley), McNulty, Mercer (Taylor), Elderton, Trialist (Dodgson), McGuire (Trialist), Connors, Mullan (Trialist), Rogan (Bell), Wilde (Trialist).

Goalscorer(s)
Queen's Park: Ian Watt (2), James Brough and Michael Daly
Fleetwood Town: Lee Dodgson

Attendance: unknown

Cook Puts Icing On Baking Day

Albion Rovers v Crawley Town
Friendly
Saturday 11th July 2009, kick-off 1pm
National Centre Inverclyde, Largs

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside. I made the trip to baking hot Largs on Saturday afternoon for a double header of football. First up was Albion Rovers taking on Blue Square Premier side Crawley Town, followed by the 'main event' of Queen's Park and English seasiders Fleetwood Town sweating it out. After eventually finding how to access the sports complex I arrived pitch side, a rather unique pitch that sloped from the centre line downwards towards each goalmouth. Burst goal nets meant that a Crawley substitute practising penalties had to fetch the ball from the nettles behind the goals despite his successful spot kicks. Football at it's best before it had even began.

The match was the Red Devils first match of their pre-season training camp in Scotland. The West Sussex sides gaffer Steve Evans was an ex-Albion Rovers player from the early eighties. The Wee Rovers were playing their second pre-season fixture, notching up an impressive 2-0 victory away to Alloa Athletic last weekend.

Once the match kicked off it was made obvious how short the pitch was with 'keeper clearances going deep into the oppositions half. Something else you don't notice much at your average game of football are the shouts from the players, being on the touchline made it easy to hear and they were a bit colourful to say the least. The ball spent the majority of the first period getting pinged from one end to the other in a very physical battle. A half of very few chances, only one of real note was strong Crawley frontman Geoff Maxin's right-footed drive saved by Rovers' debut 'keeper Derek Gaston.

The players stopped for a short half-time interval and Crawley made many changes that were to have an impact on the match. Despite looking more threatening Crawley had to clear the ball off their goal-line from a Bobby Barr effort. The deadlock was finally broken after an individual effort from Charles Ademeno, netting from just inside the box. The extra fitness from the full-time Red Devils helped them pin back their part-time opposition as they began to dominate.

Romone McCrae doubled the lead with a fine strike from the edge of the area. A third was soon added after a mix up in the Rovers defence led to Todd Lumsden bringing down Ademeno in the penalty box. Jamie Cook did the necessary and even managed to prevent the ball from going into the nettles, just the net this time when it mattered. With the last kick of the match Rovers trialist Ally Forster fired in a consolation goal that may have impressed manager Paul Martin.

Next up for Rovers is a Saturday trip to play Selkirk as their pre-season programme continues. Crawley continue their Scottish tour when they travel to Cappielow on Monday evening to take on Morton, before a glamour home friendly against the millionaires of Chelsea. The Crawley Town website has a small report.

Result: Albion Rovers 1-3 Crawley Town

Line-ups
Albion Rovers: unknown
Crawley Town: unknown

Goalscorer(s)
Albion Rovers: Trialist
Crawley Town: Charles Ademeno, Romone McCrae and Jamie Cook (pen)

Attendance: unknown

Good To Be Back?

Queen's Park v Partick Thistle
Friendly
Tuesday 7th July 2009, kick-off 7pm
Lesser Hampden, Glasgow

A closed-door match, I use that term loosely, at Lesser Hampden was to be Queen's first pre-season fixture. Opponents were Glasgow friends Partick Thistle, the two clubs are well linked with current Spiders gaffer Gardner Speirs being former assistant to Ian McCall at Thistle. Two ex-Queen's players are now Thistle men, in the shape of Paul Paton and Paul Cairney, who had come through the Hampden ranks. The Jags started their pre-season with a 4-1 victory over Cowdenbeath in Edinburgh on Saturday. I'd estimate a couple of hundred attended the match in the shadows of the national stadium, Hampden Park.

There's now a division separating the sides following Queen's relegation to the basement league, Thistle finished an impressive second in the First Division last season. The sides last played in the first round of the Challenge Cup last year at Firhill, a friendly was planned but cancelled to prevent the sides playing twice in a week. Two early goals that afternoon helped Thistle to a comfortable 2-1 victory that day. Both teams had changed kits from that encounter, Queen's in their Irn-Bru can away kit and Thistle looking pretty in pink.

After establishing who was who, with a few new faces and hair colours, Queen's opened the scoring. Ian Watt linked with new strike partner to perfection, crossing from the right onto Daly's head. Thistle 'keeper Hinchcliffe misjudged the flight of the ball and Daly headed into the net. It didn't take Thistle long to reply, with them getting some joy down their left flank, the ball was cut across the box and tapped in by one of their many trialists. That was all the scoring for the first-half but there was to be an injury apiece, seemingly a head knock ended the match for a Jags trialist and Stevie 'treatment table' Reilly.

One of the joys of being at Lesser Hampden is being able to go into the social club for a drink, munch or even a wee heat. I noticed Chic Charnley yet again at a game I was at, he might think I'm stalking him, seen his performance for Celtic (a team he didn't play for) in the Scottish Masters at the weekend, he's certainly lost it, if he ever had it. Also seen Gary Harkins, big brother of Queen's midfielder Paul, but also ex-Thistle now Dundee player after his 150k move. After the Hull City-esque on the pitch half-time team-talks and watching the funeral of Michael Jackson on the TV in the social club the second-half was under way with countless changes.

The Jags adapted best to the changes and controlled the majority of the second period, it wasn't until the last fifteen or so minutes that they made their domination count. A trialist was left unmarked in the penalty area, he was given plenty of time to turn and finish into the top corner. The Spiders rarely threatened and the match petered out, something I'm far too familiar with. Unfortunately just before the final whistle a Queen's trialist suffered a bad looking injury as he turned on the synthetic surface.

Thistle held out for a 2-1 victory, both managers would've been happy to see players given a chance to impress and prove themselves for the coming season. The Jags will be looking to gain promotion but will be a difficult task with big spending Dundee to compete with in the very challenging division. Queen's will be looking to bounce back at the first time of asking, but the Third Division is always a hard one to predict, especially at this stage.

The Partick Thistle website has a small match report, as does the Un-official Queen's Park site.

Result: Queen's Park 1-2 Partick Thistle

Line-ups
Queen's Park: Cowie (Trialist), Ure (Henry), Douglas (Murray), Trialist, Reilly (Brough), Harkins, Hamilton (Trialist), Tiernan (Capuano), Watt (Odunewu), Daly, Holms (Trialist).
Partick Thistle: Hinchcliffe, Paton (McGeough), Twaddle, Little, Maxwell, Rowson (Hodge), Trialist (Cairney), Trialist (Trialist), Trialist (Bannigan), Doolan, Erskine.

Goalscorer(s)
Queen's Park: Michael Daly
Partick Thistle: Trialist and Trialist

Attendance: unknown