The Albion - October 2014

Albi nSTIRLING ALBION F.C. OFFICIAL MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2014

Albi nthe

ISSUE #31 I £3.00

#31

SUPER SANDYBINOS STRIKER TALKS TO

THE ALBION MAGAZINE

Club Executive TeamChair and Operations DirectorStuart Brown

Finance DirectorAlan Christie

Commercial DirectorJohn Hunter

DirectorDavid McFarlane

MembersGraham DouglasJim Thomson

Football ManagementManagerGreig McDonald

Assistant ManagerMarc McCulloch

PhysiotherapistJenna Orr

Goalkeeping CoachDavid Westwood

Club DoctorMichael Beyer

Heads of YouthStewart Taylor (Admin)Blair Cremin (Coaching)

Under 19 CoachesGraeme DonaldDavid Binnie

Community Engagement ManagerAndrew Todd

Modern ApprenticeStephen Al-Sayed

Club MascotBino the Bear

Club ChaplainDuncan Strathdee (0778 991 2259)

Editor’s Notes

CONTENTS REGULAR FEATURES:03. INSIDE THE BOX 04. ALBION NEWS05. VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT 12. THE LOCKER ROOM

14

2 / OCTOBER 2014 / WWW.STIRLINGALBIONFC.CO.UK

Hello and welcome to this month’s edition of The Albion magazine.

It’s been a tough start to the League One campaign, but the Binos have return home today to take on league favourites Dunfermline in one of three home fixtures this month which should balance out from August when the Albion played mostly away from home.

A couple of players have come back from injury and some are on the mend and with a fully fit squad at his disposal Greig and Marc should be better equipped to deal with the challenges ahead. While League One has been tough I believe that the team has definitely been up to the challenge and haven’t shirked from their responsibilites. The only real dissapointment obviously came in the 5-0 loss to Brechin but the boys can ammend that in just a

12

OCT. 2014 I #3104. INSIDE THE BOX 05. ALBION NEWS06. VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT07. MATCH REPORT VS. BRECHIN08. MATCH REPORT VS. FORFAR09. MATCH REPORT VS. STRANRAER10. MATCH PHOTOS12. THE LOCKER ROOM: SANDY CUNNINGHAM14. HOME PREVIEW: DUNFERMLINE16. AWAY PREVIEW: GREENOCK MORTON24. HOME PREVIEW: AIRDRIEONIANS26. HOME PREVIEW: STENHOUSEMUIR26. AWAY PREVIEW: BRECHIN CITY30. YOUTH PIECE: STEWART TAYLOR INTERVIEW32. COMMUNITY CORNER34. JUNIOR BINOS36. SQUAD AND SPONSOR PROFILES

few short weeks.

In terms of content, we’ve got a fantastic interview with Sandy Cunningham and also manage to talk to Head of Youth Stewart Taylor. Aside from that, we’ve dedicated a spread to some of the fantastic photos from our photographer Niels Bootsma who returned to action himself following his summer back in the Netherlands. You’ll find your match reports and previews in there as well.

I hope the match today proves to be entertaining and that the team can provide an upset. I hope any Dunfermline fans reading this enjoy their Forthbank experience today and as always we appreciate every football fan’s support with this magazine we love making.

‘Mon the Binos!

David ChalmersEditor & Head of Design

@[email protected]

TODAY’S PREVIEWDUNFERMLINE

THE LOCKER ROOMSANDY CUNNINGHAM


Editors:David Chalmers & Ben Ramage

Contributors:Ben Ramage, Andy Todd, Stuart Brown, Niels Bootsma, Greig McDonald

Thanks to:Sandy Cunningham, Stewart Taylor, Stuart Brown, Greig McDonald, Andy Todd, Jim Thomson, Alan Christie, David Brown

Photography:Niels Bootmsna, Prudential, Daily Record, Derek Watt, Jim Thomson, BBC, Andy Todd, SNS Group, The Scotsman, The Herald, David Sargent, Falkirk FC, Getty Images, Forfar Athletic, Stranraer FC, Brechin City FC, Airdrieonians FC, Robert Dalzell

Design:David Chalmers

Printing: Mailboxes Etc. Stirling

Contact:[email protected]

Interact:T| 01786 450399E| [email protected]| stirlingalbionfc.co.uk

CLUB HONOURS

C Division Champions 1946/47

B Division Champions1952/53

Second Division Champions1957/58, 1976/77, 1990/91, 1995/96, 2009/10

Division One Play-off Winners2006/07

League Two Play-off Winners2013/14

Stirlingshire Cup Winners1953/54, 54/55, 58/59, 71/72, 73/74, 76/77, 77/78, 83/84, 88/89, 91/92, 98/99, 2003/04, 04/05, 05/06

THE ALBION MAGAZINE

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“

Unfortunately, September didn’t go well in terms of results with only one point taken from the nine available. Greig,

Marc and the players are as disappointed as anyone and they are determined to bring about improvement during the coming month that sees us have three of our four league matches at home.

It isn’t going to be easy, however, with our next two fixtures against arguably the two strongest teams in the league - Dunfermline Athletic and Greenock Morton - both of whom are full time.

Our three home games are against Dunfermline, Stenhousemuir and Airdrieonians and as ever, I extend a warm welcome on behalf of everyone at SAFC to their fans, Directors, Management and players.

The Dunfermline game has an unusual addition - the filming of a TV Commercial - and I apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused to our fans as the production company set about getting people in the right place to capture the scenes they require. There is a fee payable to the Club for agreeing to take part in this venture and whilst there has been considerable extra work involved over the past few weeks, we are not in a position to turn down commercial revenue from any

source, providing, of course, it is not deemed to be offensive. We have been assured by the production company that the Club will be projected in a positive light, although it may not be obvious to the uninitiated that Stirling Albion (and Dunfermline Athletic) are playing the starring roles!

Our hospitality numbers continue to go from strength to strength, with some games approaching capacity, so if you’re thinking of making a reservation, it’s time to stop and make it! Please contact Neil at the Club, through the normal channels. At £65.00 (including VAT) you won’t get a better deal anywhere is the UK! On December 6th (v Peterhead) we have a special festive offer and the Stirling Albion squad that beat Selkirk 20 - 0 in the Scottish Cup, thirty years ago will be in attendance. Very limited spaces are left for this one, so don’t delay!

Finally, a plea to the “fan” who starts shouting abuse towards the dugout at home games, within minutes of kick off irrespective of the score - please give it a rest and get behind the team and the Management, at least until you’ve got a reason to be annoyed!

Stuart BrownChairman SAFC

INSIDE THE BOX

“

Greig, Marc and the players are as disappointed as anyone and they are determined to bring about improvement during the coming month that sees us have three of our four league matches at home.

STUART BROWN

EARLY START AT CAPPIELOWA reminder that our League 1 game with Morton at Cappielow on Saturday October 11 has a 1.00pm kick-off. This was agreed between the clubs due to Scotland’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Georgia at Ibrox, which has a 5.00pm kick-off. The Morton match ends our first quarter of the campaign and is followed by back-to-back home games against Stenhousemuir and Airdrieonians.

AWAY RECORD ENDSOur 2-0 defeat at Stair Park on September 27 was our first away league loss since the 1-0 reverse to Clyde at Broadwood on March 15. We had notched up six wins and two draws until goals from Jamie Longworth and Stephen Stirling condemned us to defeat against Stranraer.

EVER-PRESENTSFour players had started all 10 of our league and cup ties up to the end of September - full-back Lee Hamilton, central defenders Chris Smith and Craig Wedderburn and striker Gordon Smith.

DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE UPDATEWe have won both home games in the SPFL Development League East this season, beating Cowdenbeath 4-1 and Forfar 3-1 on the Forthbank Astro but we lost 2-0 away to East Stirlingshire at Stirling University. Graeme Donald and David Binnie’s side were in action against Livingston at Dalkeith Juniors on Monday September 29. We are at home to Raith Rovers (w/c October 6), away to Stenhousemuir (w/c Oct 13) and home to Alloa (w/c Oct 27). We have no game on October 20. Keep an eye on the website for confirmation of venues and kick-off times.

BIRTHDAY BINOHappy birthday to former Alloa full-back James Creaney, who turns 26 on Sunday October 19.

FORMER BINOSWe were delighted to welcome Willie Watters to the recent home game against Forfar as a guest of SAFC. Willie joined the Binos in August 1991 when we had just been promoted to Division One. The former Kilmarnock forward became a huge favourite

at Annfield and Forthbank, scoring a number of memorable and spectacular goals during his four-year spell. Meanwhile, we would like to wish our former manager John Brogan, who signed Willie, best of luck in new job as boss of Lanark United.

TOP SCORERS6 Gordon Smith3 Sandy Cunningham3 Darren Lee Smith1 Craig Wedderburn

LEAGUE ONE TABLE (02/10/2014)

P Pts1 Forfar 7 142 Dunfermline 7 13 3 Ayr Utd 7 134 Morton 7 12 5 Brechin 7 96 Stranraer 7 97 Peterhead 7 8 8 Stenhousemuir 7 7 9 STIRLING ALBION 7 6 10 Airdrieonians 7 5

SCOTTISH CUP ROUND TWOThe second round of the William Hill Scottish Cup takes place on Saturday October 4. The third round is scheduled for November 1, which is when we enter the competition.

Linlithgow Rose v Dalbeattie StarEdinburgh City v Auchinleck TalbotNairn County v HuntlyArbroath v MontroseEast Fife v Threave RoversSpartans v East KilbrideBo’ness United v CulterBerwick Rangers v Formartine UnitedBrora Rangers v Banks O’DeeCove Rangers v Annan AthleticElgin City v Forres MechanicsWhitehill Welfare v East StirlingshireInverurie Loco Works v Hurlford UnitedGretna 2008 v Queen’s ParkTurriff United v ClydeStirling University v Albion Rovers (Sunday)


ALBION NEWS

FIXTURES26 Jul PTC R1 Elgin City 3-02 Aug LC R1 Alloa 0-1 9 Aug L1 Peterhead 1-1 16 Aug L1 Ayr United 1-319 Aug PTC R2 Alloa 1-223 Aug L1 Stenhousemuir 5-4 30 Aug L1 Airdrieonians 0-06 Sep PTC Quarter Final N/A13 Sep L1 Brechin City 0-520 Sep L1 Forfar Athletic 2-227 Sep L1 Stranraer 0-24 Oct L1 Dunfermline11 Oct L1 Morton18 Oct L1 Stenhousemuir

25 Oct L1 Airdrieonians8 Nov L1 Brechin City15 Nov L1 Stranraer22 Nov L1 Dunfermline29 Nov PTC R46 Dec L1 Peterhead13 Dec L1 Forfar Athletic20 Dec L1 Ayr United 27 Dec L1 Morton3 Jan L1 Stenhousemuir10 Jan L1 Dunfermline17 Jan L1 Peterhead24 Jan L1 Forfar Athletic31 Jan L1 Stranraer

7 Feb L1 Morton14 Feb L1 Ayr United21 Feb L1 Brechin City28 Feb L1 Airdrieonians7 Mar L1 Stranraer14 Mar L1 Dunfermline21 Mar L1 Peterhead28 Mar L1 Forfar Athletic4 Apr L1 Airdrieonians11 Apr L1 Brechin City 18 Apr L1 Morton25 Apr L1 Ayr United 2 May L1 Stenhousemuir

“

Welcome to the October edition of the monthly magazine.

Reflecting on our first seven matches, it’s fair to say that it has been a tough start to the campaign with some valuable lessons learned. On the positive side, we have shown for large parts of the games to date that if we impose ourselves and play our own game that we are undoubtedly capable of competing at this level. We now need to take confidence from that, push on and impose ourselves over the course of the full 90-plus minutes. In terms of areas for improvement, we clearly need to start games quicker. At this level there is little opportunity to feel your way into matches therefore we need to be at it from the first whistle. Similarly we have unfortunately learned the hard way that errors get punished much more frequently than in League 2. We know we must improve defensively as a team if we want to do well and much of our focus on the training pitch has been around improving these aspects of our play. In last week’s game against Stranraer we were undone by two poor goals from set-pieces, an area we are normally very strong in. The reaction and character of the players after going behind was, of course, pleasing, as it was

against Forfar, however ultimately we were again left to rue giving our opponents a cheap head start. In October we finish the season’s first quarter. Firstly Dunfermline visit Forthbank before we travel to Cappielow to play Morton. Clearly both will be tough but these matches, against full-time opponents, are just one of the reasons why we worked so hard to gain promotion last season and we’ll go into them determined to produce positive performances and results. On the injury front we expect to see Graham Weir, Phil Johnston and Craig Comrie all return to action shortly. These three players were instrumental in our promotion last season and their return to the squad will be a welcome boost. Even at this early stage, the table shows that this is a tight league with all of the teams capable of beating each other on their day. Our task remains unchanged - work hard and ensure we earn as many points as we can over the course of the campaign. Your backing will make that task all the more possible.

Thank you for your continued support.

Greig


VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

We know we must improve defensively as a team if we want to do well and much of our focus on the training pitch has been around improving these aspects of our play.

GREIG MCDONALD“


Andy Jackson and Alan Trouten both scored twice as Brechin City cruised to victory at Forthbank and moved to within a point of

the League 1 summit.Bobby Barr was also on target for the visitors

on an afternoon to forget for Greig McDonald’s men.

Four of the goals came in the second half and it was our heaviest league defeat since a 6-1 thrashing against Partick Thistle at Firhill in January 2011 and the worst home result since Falkirk won 5-0 here in November 2010.

Albion went into this game after a solid start of a win, two draws and a defeat but we were dismantled by a slick, well-drilled City outfit. A vast improvement will be required when joint leaders Forfar come to town on Saturday.

Stirling showed one change from the team that drew 0-0 at Airdrie, with Graham Weir replacing the injured Craig Comrie.

Steven Doris, out since the opening day with a shoulder injury, was among the subs and his return was the only positive of a grim afternoon.

Brechin went ahead in 14 minutes when

Jackson scored with a simple close-range header after great work by former Hearts midfielder Callum Tapping on the left.

Ray McKinnon’s men deserved their narrow interval advantage, although we almost went in level - keeper Graeme Smith doing well to push away a Gordon Smith effort.

We started the second half brightly but it didn’t last. Defender Colin Hamilton was unlucky not to add to City’s lead when his header hit the underside of the bar but it was game over when Jackson seized on a Chris Smith error and beat Callum Reidford with a stunning lob from almost 30 yards in 63 minutes.

Stirling fell apart after that. Gordon Smith fouled Trouten, on for the injured Tapping, and he converted the penalty before Barr added the fourth from almost on the line after Trouten had been sent clear and directed the ball towards the corner of the net.

Brechin rounded off their perfect afternoon in the autumn sunshine when Trouten was left completely unmarked to nod home the fifth goal with two minutes remaining.

MATCH REPORT

ReidfordHamiltonForsyth

McClune (70)Wedderburn

C. SmithD.L. Smith (68)

FultonG. Smith (68)Cunningham

Weir

Subs:Paterson

McGeachieCreaney

D. Smith (70)RobertsonCoult (68)Doris (68)

SmithJ. McCormack

HamiltonMcLean

D. McCormackCameron (76)

Barr (81)Molloy

A. JacksonTapping (58)

Masson

Subs:Tough

ThomsonMcLauchlanFusco (76)

Ferguson (81)Trouten (58)S. Jackson

BRECHIN COME AWAY WITH THE WIN AFTER FIVE-STAR DISPLAY

0 STIRLING ALBION

5 BRECHIN CITYA JACKSON 14, 63, TROUTEN PEN 67, 88, BARR 77

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 13THSEP 2014

ATT: 601

LEFT:Steven Doris battling in the match at Forthbank

PHOTO: Niels Bootsma

S andy Cunningham came off the bench to grab a double and earn us an important point after Forfar looked to

be heading for victory at Forthbank.The 19-year-old scored twice in the closing

18 minutes after Omar Kader and Gavin Swankie had Dick Campbell’s men on course for a place at the top of the League 1 table.

The result was a big boost after recent home defeats to Ayr and Brechin and means we head for Stranraer next week level on points with the Stair Park outfit.

Binos boss Greig McDonald made four changes in the wake of the 5-0 thrashing by Brechin - James Creaney, Darren Smith, Steven Doris and Willie Robertson replaced Ross Forsyth, Dale Fulton, Darren Lee Smith and Cunningham. Phil Johnston and Craig Comrie again missed out through injury.

Forfar thought they had been awarded an early penalty when Swankie went down under a challenge from Chris Smith but contact looked minimal and referee George Salmond changed his mind.

The visitors didn’t have long to wait for the opening goal. In 12 minutes, winger Danny Denholm sent in a dangerous cross from the left and ex-Spartans midfielder Kader steered the ball home.

Neither goalkeeper had much to do for long spells of the game but Forfar scored again with 19 minutes left when Swankie had a simple tap-in after good work by ex-Livingston man Denholm.

Cunningham, on as a substitute shortly before that goal, got us back in it 60 seconds later when he made space at the edge of the box and smashed a superb shot past 42-year-old ex-Scotland keeper Rab Douglas and into the top corner.

The 19-year-old caused Forfar’s vastly-experienced defence problems and popped up with the equaliser in the closing minutes.

Doris nodded the ball down and Cunningham pounced from close range to complete a spirited comeback against a physically strong and talented Forfar side.


MATCH REPORT

ReidfordHamiltonCreaney

McClune (77)Wedderburn

C. SmithWeir

D. SmithG. Smith (68)

DorisRobertson (68)

Subs:Paterson

McGeachieForsythFulton

D.L. Smith (68)Coult (77)

Cunningham (68)

DouglasBaxter

PatersonMalcolm

DodsHusband (81)

KaderYoung

Hilson (89)Swankie

Denholm (81)

Subs:SalmonYates

KeillerMalin

Fotheringam (81)Templeman (89)

Dale (81)

SUPER SUB SANDY SPARES BLUSHES WITH LATE EQUALISER

2 STIRLING ALBIONCUNNINGHAM 72, 86

2 FORFAR ATHLETICKADER 12, SWANKIE 71

LEAGUEONE

SAT 20THSEP 2014

ATT: 567

LEFT:Cunninghamjumping for joy after levelling the match with five minutes to spare

PHOTO: Niels Bootsma


First-half goals from Jamie Longworth and Stephen Stirling earned Stranraer victory at Stair Park as we suffered our first away league

defeat since March.We produced a much-improved second-half

performance but failed to take the chances that came our way and had a couple of penalty appeals turned down as Stevie Aitken’s team saw the game out.

Albion have slipped to ninth in the table ahead of Saturday’s game at home to League 1 title favourites Dunfermline and we end the first quarter at Morton on October 11.

This was our first visit to Stranraer since we won an amazing match 8-2 in January 2009 and the teams were level in the table with six points from six games.

We were again without Phil Johnston and Craig Comrie while Darren Lee Smith returned to the side in place of the injured Graham Weir as we looked to

build on the comeback in the 2-2 draw with Forfar.Stranraer took the lead inside three minutes when

we failed to deal with a cross from the left wing and, after Craig Malcolm had failed to convert from close range, Longworth made no mistake.

The Blues hit the bar with a header before doubling their advantage in 25 minutes. Former D u n f e r m l i n e winger Willie Gibson was causing us plenty of problems and we were caught out at a set-piece when he teed up Stirling

to smash the ball home from the edge of the box.Greig McDonald’s men, with Steven Doris always

a threat going forward, rallied after the break. Chris Smith and Gordon Smith had penalty shouts waved away, Darren Lee Smith forced a good save from David Mitchell and James Creaney hammered a shot just too high but, for the third time in four games, we failed to find the net.

MATCH REPORT

MitchellPettigrewLongridgeRumsby

McKeownGallagher

WinterStirling (70)

MalcolmLongworth (73)

Gibson (88)

Subs:Tobin

McCloskeyFordeAitken

Stoney (73)Russell (88)

Marenghi (70)

ReidfordHamiltonCreaneyMcClune

WedderburnC. Smith

Robertson (62)D. Smith (81)G. Smith (78)

DorisD.L. Smith

Subs:Paterson

McGeachieForsyth

Fulton (81)Cunningham (62)

Coult (78)

STRANRAER TWO GOOD FOR THE ALBION AT STAIR PARK

2 STRANRAERLONGWORTH 3, STIRLING 25

0 STIRLING ALBION

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 27THAUG 2014

ATT: 446

LEFT:David McClune losing a tug of war in a match against Airdrie

PHOTO: Robert Dalzell /Airdrieonians

“

“

We produced a much-improved second-half

performance but failed to take the chances that came

our way


MATCH PHOTOS


DC: The League One campaign has been tough so far, is that something you expected?

SC: We all expected there to be a jump in quality as we were going up a division and obviously it might take us some time to settle fully. Personally I haven’t played against most of these teams so I didnt know what to expect to be honest but we just need to take it week by week and hopefully get some positive results.

As an individual, how do you feel you have stepped up to this division considering your fairly young career so far?

I think I’ve made a good start in League One, I’ve scored a few goals and played quite well but I’m still learning and trying to improve every week and that will come with experience and playing week in week out.

There’s been a fair amount of new faces this year - is the squad still adapting to each other?

Yes everyone in the squad gets on really well we have great banter in training on Tuesdays and Thursdays, there is also a good variety in the squad from seasoned players to young up and coming players. Which is helpful for me to learn off everyone as well.

Obviously you came on and scored a brace against Forfar, enhancing your super-sub reputation. Is that both a blessing and a curse?

Of course it’s nice to score and get the team a result but everyone wants to start the game rather than sitting on the bench and for me I am the same - I want to start every game and do my best for the team and to try and score but at the

THE LOCKER ROOM

“

“

I’ll need to be at my best to play. We all know we only have to look at the bench everyweek to keep us on our toes.

SANDY CUNNINGHAM

FORWARD SANDY CUNNINGHAM CAUGHT UP WITH EDITOR DAVID CHALMERS ABOUT THE TRANSITION TO LEAGUE ONE AND BEING A SUPER-SUB


end of the day its the gaffer who picks the team and you just have to get on with it and take it in your stride. I think with the more experience I get from starting games the more of an impact I will make from the get go.

Speaking of your own form, have you or the coaching staff set any targets for yourself this year?

Not really, I like to keep personal goals to keep myself motivated. Like last year I had set myself a target of 10 league goals and I think I scored eight which personally I was gutted about, but in hindsight for my first season in senior football I think it was actually quite good considering my role in the squad last year as well. I should look at it positively and use it as another motivator to score more goals than last season.

So today’s game is against Dunfermline, one of the league’s best sides. How do you approach that kind of game?

Playing Dunfermline today will definitely be one of our hardest games this season as they are one of the teams who are full time in this league which will obviously give them an advantage but we know we are also a good side with players more than capably of getting a result today we just need to make sure we have the right attitude and work rate in the game to hopefully get a positive result, its these games you look forward to as a player and that gives you an extra wee boost too.

How do you see it going - could the Binos pull off a shock?

I think it will be a hard game as they have just started to get a few good results together and are looking good. We haven’t really hit the form we would have liked to at this point in the season but im sure it will turn around and this is a big game so if we get a result today it could give us

the confidence to really push on. I wouldn’t like to predict anything but for me I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully we can get a good result.

What do you think is the key to putting a good run of form together in this league?

I think if we are going to put a good run of form together we need to be very well organised on the pitch, most of the teams we have played this season have been very physical and well organised so it is hard to break teams like that down.

Obviously your Modern Apprenticeship has ended - how was that experience for you?

Will you miss it, and what’s your advice to your successor Stephen Al-Sayed?

Yes, my modern apprenticeship has

finished and I really enjoyed my time with Andy Todd, he is doing great things for the club and sometimes it goes unseen to a lot of people but he really is doing a good job of getting the name of Stirling Albion out there to the younger generation. I will miss it - coaching football to kids and

seeing them enjoying it is an amazing feeling and also knowing I was helping the club was good too.

If I had one bit of advice for Steve it would be

Andy loves a chicken bar from Morrisons so if he ever has a spare £2 Andy would appreciate one ;)

THE LOCKER ROOM


DAVID CHALMERS

Dunfermline pay a visit to the home of William Wallace today to take on ninth-placed Stirling Albion in what is quite possibly the Binos fans

most eagerly-anticipiated fixtures this campaign.It’s the kind of fixture that Albion fans were

undoubtedly looking out for after gaining promotion last campaign and the Championship-chasing trio aside, the Pars are still a big name in Scottish football and are sure to draw a crowd.

One of the full-time teams in the division, Jim Jefferies takes the helm at East End Park and has endured a horrendous spell of luck since his tenure began. Succesive relegations have tainted Jefferies’ name and there was of course the flirtation with liquidation that ended in only administration for the Fife club. However, having stayed true to the club’s chairman and fans Jefferies might now possibly reap the rewards as he will have the time and power to put together the kind of team that he believes can take them back into the Scottish Premiership.

Jefferies’ squad have so far taken 13 points from League One, and sit just a point behind league leaders

Forfar Athletic going into the fixture. Just two points separate 1st from 4th and with it so tight at the top it’s imperative for them to keep focused and top keep gaining points if they are to gain promotion. After narrowly missing out last year they’ll not want to experience the same heart-ache again this year. The Pars took part in an incredible game last weekend when Peterhead travelled to Dunfermline to take

part in the first ever competitive fixture between the two clubs, an incredible stat (if true) that I heard on The Terrace Podcast this week. The Blue Toon were reduced to just nine men before half-time

after James Redman, Steven Noble and Jordon Brown all seen the red mist af were duly sent off by referee Greg Aitken. While the visitors had kept it goalless in the first half, Joshua Falkingham, Chigozie Ugwu and James Thomas all took advantage and gave the Pars a 3-0 win.

Greig McDonald will have a hard task keeping out Chigozie Ugwu and Michael Moffat, but with a settled central defensive partnership it is up to Craig Wedderburn and Chris Smith to make sure they have what it takes to keep the Binos in the fixture and see where it goes form there.

MATCH PREVIEW

STIRLING ALBION VS. DUNFERMLINE

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 4THOCTOBER, 2014

15:00 KO

FORTHBANK STADIUM

DUNFERMLINE FACTFILEFOUNDED: 1885 NICKNAME: THE PARS STADIUM: EAST END PARK CAPACITY: 11,480 CURRENT MANAGER: JIM JEFFERIES

““

It’s the kind of fixture that Albion fans were undoubtedly looking out for after gaining

promotion last campaign.


FIXTURESGoalkeepers:Ryan GoodfellowRyan Scully

Defenders:Gregor BuchananRoss DrummondLewis MartinRoss MillenJonathan Page

Ryan Williamson

Midfielders:Shaun ByrneJosh FalkinghamRoss ForbesAndy GegganLewis SpenceAndy StirlingRyan Thomson

Ryan WallaceAlex Whittle

Forwards:Faissal El BakhtaouiMichael MoffatAllan SmithChigozie Ugwu

SQUAD LIST

STIRLING ALBION vs DUNFERMLINEOCT 4th | LEAGUE ONE | FORTHBANK

AYR UNITED vs DUNFERMLINEOCT 10th | LEAGUE ONE | S’SET PARK

DUNFERMLINE vs FORFAR ATHLETICOCT 18TH | LEAGUE ONE | EAST END

Ten minutes of match official madness at East End Park saw this game nearly descend into farce.

It was an afternoon of triple trouble with three first-half sending offs. But this was offset by Martin Hardie’s terrific treble that sealed three valuable points for the Pars. Dunfermline took the lead on the half-hour mark after Steven McDougall was hauled down by Martyn Corrigan

The Stirling defender was shown the red card by ref Steven Nicholls and Hardie stepped-up to slot home from the spot.

The visitor’s Paul McHale was then sent off for a second yellow card for continued dissent following the penalty decision.

But before Pars could make the most of their two-man advantage, it was Gary Mason’s turn for an early bath.

His poor first touched led to a lunge on Tom Brighton in a desperate attempt to regain possession.

The Binos will surely be hoping for a less eventful encounter this time around with the Pars visiting Forthbank - the last time the two played in Stirling it ended in a draw.

4 DUNFERMLINEHARDIE 31 PEN, 45+1 PEN, 92, BUCHANAN 54

1 STIRLING ALBIONKANE 74

DIVISION ONE

SAT 19HMAY 2011

ATT: 2553

LAST TIME

KEY PLAYERCHIGOZIE UGWU‘Gozie’ Ugwu might only be 21, but the striker is already at his SIXTH professional football club after joining the Pars on a free transfer this summer.

His last six games has seen him score four goals, with efforts coming against Peterhead, Stranraer and Airdrieonians. The latter were on the wrong end of a brace from the former Reading man. His impact at the Pars has been integral to their early season form and it’s difficult to imagine him not terrorising any League One defence this year.

THE GAFFERJIM JEFFERIESJefferies is an established name in Scottish football with an impressive playing career coming before a respectable managerial career.

A former right-back, the Musselburgh-born man played for Hearts from 1967-1981 before ending his career at Berwick Rangers. He moved into management with Hawick Royal Albert and has managed Gala Fairydean, Berwick Rangers, Falkirk, Hearts, Bradford City, Kilmarnock, Hearts again and took on the Pars in 2012. He’s stuck with the club following two relegations and a stint in administration.


BEN RAMAGE

Stirling face a tough task when they travel to Renfrewshire to face Greenock Morton at Cappielow Park. The Invercylde side, who

finished bottom of the Scottish Championship last season, have been rejuvenated by new manager Jim Duffy since their relegation to League One.

Duffy has overseen a major summer overhaul of the team he inherited from Kenny Shiels, whose ill-fated reign ended after Morton’s hugely embarrassing 10-2 defeat to Hamilton and their subsequent relegation.

Alongside new Assistant Manager Craig McPherson he has brought in some highly experienced players to help steady the ship, including the well-travelled ex-Ross County striker Andrew Barrowman and ex-Livingston midfielder David Robertson. Duffy also secured the

services of two highly rated youngsters, 20-year-old Irish midfielder Conor Pepper from Inverness and 19-year-old Michael Miller of Celtic.

This blend of youth and experience has resulted in Morton’s mixed start to the season, having won four and lost three of their opening seven League One matches. The team should gel with time and

Morton will be hoping for more consistent results to move further up the table.

Duffy’s most shrewd move in the transfer market over the summer was the late loan coup of Aberdeen

youngster Declan McManus. The 20-year-old Glaswegian has already bagged five goals in seven games for the Ton, and has recently been called up to the Scotland Under-21 National side. He sat top of the League’s top scorers by September, and Duffy will be praying he can continue his fine form to help fire the pride of Clyde back up to the Championship.

MATCH PREVIEW

GREENOCK MORTON VS. STIRLING ALBION

LEAGUE ONE


13:00 KO

CAPPIELOWPARK

GREENOCK MORTON FACTFILEFOUNDED: 1874 NICKNAME: THE TON STADIUM: CAPPIELOW PARK CAPACITY: 11,589 CURRENT MANAGER: JIM DUFFY

““

The Invercylde sidehave been rejuvenated by

new manager Jim Duffy since their relegation to

League One.


FIXTURESGoalkeepers:Derek GatonNicolas Caraux

Defenders:Lee KildayRicki LamieMichal MillerStefan Milokevic

Sean CrightonThomas Oware

Midfielders:Jamie McCluskeyCono PepperJoe McKeeJordan AllanReece Hands

Forwards:Andrew BarrowmanDavid McNeillDeclan McManusStefan McCluskeyJon Scullion

SQUAD LIST

BRECHIN CITY vs GREENOCK MORTONOCT 4th | LEAGUE ONE | GLEBE PARK

GREENOCK MORTON vs STIRLING ALBIONOCT 11th | LEAGUE ONE | CAPPIELOW

GREENOCK MORTON vs AYR UNITEDOCT 18TH | LEAGUE ONE | CAPPIELOW

Stirling ended an incredible 25-match winless run as they claimed a shock 3-2 win over Morton.

Carlo Monti put the visitors ahead in the 28th minute when he blasted home from the spot following Michael Doyle’s foul on David O’Brien.

And after Ross Forsyth had gone close for the home side, fellow midfielder Stephen Stirling turned home Forsyth’s cross to level the scores three minutes before the break.

Stirling grabbed his second of the match with a penalty on the stroke of half-time after he was brought down by Grant Evans.

Midfielder Brian Graham spurned a chance to equalise when he volleyed a 65th-minute effort over the crossbar from the centre of the penalty area.

But the visitors’ fourth defeat in a row was confirmed when striker Michael Mullen tapped in the third from close range, making Stuart McCaffrey’s late header from 12 yards a consolation.

3 STIRLING ALBIONSTIRLING 42, PEN 45+3, MULLEN 89

2 GREENOCK MORTONC MONTI PEN 28, MCCAFFREY 90+1

DIVISION ONE

SAT 7THMAY 2011

ATT: 701

LAST TIME

KEY PLAYERDECLAN MCMANUSYoung Declan McManus fine form so far this League One season suggests that he could play a vital role as Morton try to regain their Championship status at the first time of asking. The exciting forward has been sent out by Aberdeen to gain some valuable first team experience, and he has certainly grasped the opportunity so far. Glasgow-born Declan has played 12 times for the Dons, and has also scored two goals during his eight caps for Scotland’s International Under 19’s.

THE GAFFERJIM DUFFYDuffy, 55, signed a two year contract in May to take over control of the Ton, who were in freefall after Kenny Shiels struggles in Inverclyde. The Glaswegian joined after a three year spell at Clyde, having previously managed Hibernian, Dundee and Falkirk. A strong centre back as a player, Duffy came through the Celtic youth system before moving to the team he now manages, amassing over 100 appearances for Morton during his three years there. Duffy then moved on to Dundee, and also played for Partick Thistle.

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Wish Stirling Albion a successful 2014/2015 season

DAVID CHALMERS

Stenhousemuir travel to Forthbank later this month and will surely be looking for a response to the Albion’s emphatic 5-4 victory at Ochilview earlier this

season.With so few teams in the Scottish Leagues it doesn’t take

a long time for you to get another bite at the cherry and that is the case for Scott Booth and his side. The aforementioned victory at Ochilview is thus far the high-point of Stirling’s season and their only league win to date. While Stenhousemuir sit just a point above the Binos, there isn’t much between both sides coming from the Forth Valley area. While Stirling have amassed six points to date through one win and three draws, The Warriors have earned seven with two victories and a draw.

Most recently, at the time of writing, Stenny managed to produce an oustanding result with a 2-1 home win over high-flying Morton thanks to veteran striker Martin Grehan

and Sean Dickson. Aberdeen loanee Declan McManus had given the Greenock side the lead on 31 minutes but Booth’s players showed great character to fight back and earn the three points.

You know what they say in these leagues - it’s your home form that counts, and with Greig McDonald yet to engineer an Albion victory at Forthbank in League One it’s important

that he should view this fixture as an opportunity to ammend that should the side not prove victorious against Dunfermline. I’ve picked out Bryan Hodge as the key player for Stenny, however, they carry

threats with Sean Dickson, Martin Grehan and Paul Sludden also.

For the Binos, the fixture might inspire the Binos to get back on the goal trail and if Gordon Smith and Sandy Cunningham can produce the goods as they have done this season then it should be anothet tasty encounter with a vital filling of goals. Here’s hoping the three points is the cherry on top of the cake.

MATCH PREVIEW

STIRLING ALBION VS. STENHOUSEMUIR

LEAGUE ONE


15:00 KO

FORTHBANK STADIUM

STENHOUSEMUIR FACTFILEFOUNDED: 1884 NICKNAME: THE WARRIORS STADIUM: OCHILVIEW CAPACITY: 3,746 CURRENT MANAGER: SCOTT BOOTH

“

“

I’ve picked out Bryan Hodge as the key player for Stenny, however, they carry threats with Sean Dickson, Martin

Grehan and Paul Sludden also.


FIXTURESGoalkeepers:Greg FlemingCraig BurnsDean ShawChris Smith

Defenders:Robbie DuncanStewart GreacenAlan LawsonAlan LithgowMatthew McGuireRoss McMillanRoss Meechan

Nicolas MortimerDanny NimmoJames RedpathCiaran SummersFraser Thomson

Midfielders:Mark AllanRyan ColemanSean DicksonKyle DochertyKris FauldsGregor FotheringhamBryan Hodge

Kieran MillarJamie ReidMark ScottJosh Watt

Forwards:Stan ChitemereMartin GrehanColin McMenaminRyan MillarCallum RobertsonPaul Sludden

SQUAD LIST

STENHOUSEMUIR vs STRANRAEROCT 4th | LEAGUE ONE | OCHILVIEW

FORFAR ATHLETIC vs STENHOUSEMUIROCT 11th | LEAGUE ONE | STATION PARK

STIRLING ALBION vs STENHOUSEMUIROCT 18TH | LEAGUE ONE | FORTHBANK

Albion edged a nine-goal thriller at Ochilview as we recovered from a 2-1 half-time deficit to claim our first win in League 1 in dramatic fashion.

Scott Booth’s side were the better team in the first half but four Stirling goals in an incredible 15-minute spell after the break turned the game around.

Hodge opened the scoring in 16 minutes when we failed to clear our lines and he found the net with a low shot but Wedderburn headed the equaliser from a Craig Comrie corner.

The Warriors were back in front when Dickson lashed a 30-yarder up and over Paterson and Josh Watt should have added a third goal but fired wide.

Within 10 minutes of the restart we were in front. Gordon Smith made it 2-2 when he steered the ball into the net after Greg Fleming had been forced to rush from his goal to challenge Cunningham.

Then the teenage striker got on the mark himself, turning the ball home from close range after Darren Lee Smith had driven it across goal.

It was soon 4-2. Graham Weir forced a good stop from Fleming and Darren Lee Smith latched on to the rebound, with the stand-side assistant ruling it had crossed the line before being cleared.

Hodge pulled one back when he coolly converted after his initial effort came back off the post but Darren Smith then sent Gordon Smith clear and he rounded the keeper to net his sixth goal of the season.

Grehan’s last-minute effort was helped into the net by Comrie as he attempted to clear but we survived the three minutes of stoppage time to come out on top in a goal-laden game.

4 STENHOUSEMUIRHODGE 16, 65, DICKSON 37, GREHAN 90

5 STIRLING ALBIONWEDDERBURN 31, G SMITH 53, 69, CUNNINGHAM 55, D L SMITH 61

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 23RDAUG 2014

ATT: 613

LAST TIME

KEY PLAYERBRYAN HODGEA talented midfielder with an eye for goal, Stenny’s Bryan Hodge has started to make up for lost time after missing parts of last season through injury - Hodge is a threat for Booth’s men with his late runs into the box.

A career that was destined for much more, Hodge is at an age where he is entering his prime and Stenny will benefit from that. Formerly of Blackburn Rovers, Mansfield Town, Millwall, Partick Thistle and Brechin - his services to to the Forth Valley side have been his most important to date and the Binos will have to keep an eye on his movement behind the likes of Grehan and Sludden.

THE GAFFERSCOTT BOOTHScott Booth took over the club in January, - his first managerial job. Booth had a glittering playing career as a striker, with two spells at Aberdeen sandwiching an impressive European career playing for German giants Borussia Dortmund, as well as FC Twente and FC Utrecht. Booth also managed to gain 22 caps for Scotland, notching 6 goals in the process. He was a member of the squad for Euro 96, scoring 4 goals in the qualifiers, and also travelled with the team to the 1998 World Cup. He has worked for multiple media outlets as a pundit and also coached in the S.F.A before taking the reigns at Stenny.


BEN RAMAGE

The Binos welcome Airdrieonians to the Forthbank Stadium on the 25th, who will be hoping to have improved their

performances after a shaky start to the season. The Diamonds were led to safety last season

by current manager Gary Bollan who, after succeeding ex-manager Jimmy Boyle, took them from bottom of the table to 6th. Their survival was founded on an impressive run which saw them lose just one game in their last 16, to eventual champions Rangers.

Unsurprisingly, this led to several players moving on thanks to their terrific performances, including the strong defence which was vital to their relegation escape. Goalkeeper Grant Adam was poached by Premiership side Dundee, while defenders Craig Barr and Stefan Milojevic Bjekovic moved on to Raith Rovers and Greenock Morton respectively. Ex-Inverness Caley Thistle defender David Proctor was brought in to try and sure up the defence, but has so far not been able to stop them sliding to the bottom of the table after a less than impressive run of results. The loss of their defensive cohesiveness has seen

them lose four of their opening seven League One games this season, and Bollan will surely be hoping his defence improves with time as the season progresses.

The Diamonds also lost promising forward Liam Coogans to English Championship side Huddersfield Town for a reported five-figure fee. The youngster also had trials with Celtic and Blackburn, and it’s unfortunate the Airdrieonian fans couldn’t see more of the Scot before he was snapped up by the Terriers. The Airdrie side could use a prolific forward, as they have found goals hard to come by so far this season, with no player notching more than one by the end of September. The Airdrieonian fans still have one promising forward in their ranks, however, in the form of nineteen year old ex-Celtic striker Jack Kirwan. The tall attacker has featured in the Scottish National Youth set up, and Bollan will be hopeful he can help allay their offensive problems.

The Airdrie side did manage to claim their first victory in the campaign away against Ayr United, and the club will be hoping that Jamie Bain’s extra time winner can be the catalyst for the rest of the campaign.


MATCH PREVIEW

STIRLING ALBION VS. AIRDRIEONIANS

LEAGUE ONE


15:00 KO

FORTHBANK STADIUM

AIRDRIEONIANS FACTFILEFOUNDED: 2002 NICKNAME: THE DIAMONDS STADIUM: NEW BROOMFIELD CAPACITY: 10,170 CURRENT MANAGER: GARY BOLLAN


FIXTURESGoalkeepers:Andy McNeil

Defenders:Chris O’NeilGrant DrummondDavid ProctorBen Richards-EvertonMarc FitzpatrickRobert Wilson

Jamie BainPaddy BoyleLuca Gasparotto

Midfielders:Joe HamillScott GrayNathan BlockleyLiam WattNicky CaddenJack Haggerty

Aiden WardScott Stewart

Forwards:Jim ListerKyle RichfordKeigan ParkerJohn BoyleJack KirwanBryan Prunty

SQUAD LIST

AIRDRIEONIANS vs FORFAR ATHLETICOCT 4th | LEAGUE ONE | NEW BROOMFIELD

AIRDRIEONIANS vs BRECHIN CITYOCT 11th | LEAGUE ONE | NEW BROOMFIELD

PETERHEAD vs AIRDRIEONIANSOCT 18th | LEAGUE ONE | BALMOOR

It was a keenly-contested 90 minutes that ended with our first 0-0 draw of the campaign. Chris Smith and Craig Wedderburn were solid in the centre of defence and we also carried a threat going forward.

Airdrie came close to the opener in 13 minutes when Nathan Blockley played in Jim Lister and the former Dumbarton striker fired in a shot that rebounded from the inside of the box.

Our nearest thing in the first half saw Andy McNeil make a superb save to keep out a Chris Smith header following a corner and Ross Forsyth nodded the rebound against the post from close range.

Gary Bollan’s side were next to be denied by the woodwork just before half-time when left-back Paddy Boyle curled a free-kick up and over the wall then Fulton was thwarted by the crossbar early in the second period and Darren Lee Smith was unable to convert the follow-up.

The former Motherwell man fired just wide after being sent clear on the angle by Sandy Cunningham while at the other end Reidford earlier came to the rescue when Lister got in behind the defence as it ended all square on our first visit to this ground since a 4-1 defeat in January 2012.

0 AIRDRIEONIANS

0 STIRLING ALBION

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 30THAUG 2014

ATT: 825

LAST TIME

KEY PLAYERDAVID PROCTORDavid Proctor has a wealth of Scottish football experience, having played over 160 times for Inverness Caley Thistle over two separate spells. He had a successful loan spell for the Airdieonians in 2007, before returning over the summer after a sojourn to Canadian side FC Edmunton. He played 25 times for the North American Soccer League side, and his vast experience could be vital to Airdrieonians hopes of staying up this season.

THE GAFFERGARY BOLLANThe 41 year old Dundonian took over a sinking ship half-way through last season, and the clubs miraculous recovery was testament to the young manager’s prowess. This is only Bollan’s second managerial post, having previously managed Livingston for three seasons. Gary was a defender during his playing career, and enjoyed spells at Dundee United, Rangers and St. Johnstone. He also featured for Scotland’s National Under 21 side, gaining 17 caps for the side.

BEN RAMAGE

Stirling head to Glebe Park on the 8th of November, and will be out for revenge for the miserable 5 - 0 home defeat the Angus based

side inflicted on the Bino’s earlier in the season. The result was the heaviest defeat Stirling have suffered at the Forthbank stadium since the same result transpired in 2010 against Falkirk, and the Albion will be hoping to settle the score when the two sites meet again.

The City have had a mixed start to their current League One campaign, but their two wins and three draws saw them sitting on the edge of the play-off places at the end of September.

Current manager Ray McKinnon has been in charge at Brechin for the last two years, and will be hoping to improve on their 8th place finish last season. The Dundonian added some proven Scottish Premier League quality

over the summer with the addition of Hearts of Midlothian’s Callum Tapping a real coup for the side. The exciting midfielder has a wealth of experience despite his tender age of 21, thanks to the troubles at the Edinburgh club last season.

McKinnon also managed to snag the promising young Rangers player Kyle McAusland on loan until January, and will be hoping the strong defender helps to sure up The City’s defence in the coming months.

Midfielder Alan Trouten, who notched two against Stirling, has an excellent scoring record for The City, and that looks set to continue given he notched four goals in his first seven games of the season.

The gaffer will be looking for progress this season, and their strong and exciting midfield could be enough to propel them further up the table this time around.


MATCH PREVIEW

BRECHIN CITY VS. STIRLING ALBION

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 8THNOVEMBER, 2014

15:00 KO

GLEBE PARK

BRECHIN CITY FACTFILEFOUNDED: 1906 NICKNAME: THE CITY STADIUM: GLEBE PARK CAPACITY: 3,960 CURRENT MANAGER: RAY MCKINNON

“

“

The City have had a mixed start to their current League One

campaign, but their two wins and three draws saw them sitting on the edge of the play-off places at

the end of September.


FIXTURESGoalkeepers:Patrick O’NeilGraeme SmithBen Tough

Defenders:Colin HamiltonSteven JacksonKyle McAuslandDarren McCormack

Jamie McCormackGerry McLauchlanPaul McLean

Midfielders:Bobby BarrGreg CameronRyan FergusonGary FuscoJamie Masson

Craig MolloyCallum TappingAlan Trouten

Forwards:Andy JacksonRobert Thomson

SQUAD LIST

BRECHIN CITY vs GREENOCK MORTONOCT 4th | LEAGUE ONE | GLEBE PARK

AIRDRIEONIANS vs STRANRAEROCT 11th | LEAGUE ONE | THE EXCELSIOR

STRANRAER vs STIRLING ALBIONOCT 18th | LEAGUE ONE | GLEBE PARK

Andy Jackson and Alan Trouten both scored twice as Brechin City cruised to victory at Forthbank.

Four of the goals came in the second half and it was our heaviest league defeat since a 6-1 thrashing against Partick Thistle at Firhill in January 2011 and the worst home result since Falkirk won 5-0 here in November 2010.

Brechin went ahead in 14 minutes when Jackson scored with a simple close-range header after great work by former Hearts midfielder Callum Tapping on the left.

Ray McKinnon’s men deserved their narrow interval advantage, although we almost went in level - keeper Graeme Smith doing well to push away a Gordon Smith effort.

We started the second half brightly but it didn’t last. Defender Colin Hamilton was unlucky not to add to City’s lead when his header hit the underside of the bar but it was game over when Jackson seized on a Chris Smith error and beat Callum Reidford with a stunning lob from almost 30 yards in 63 minutes.

Stirling fell apart after that. Gordon Smith fouled Trouten, on for the injured Tapping, and he converted the penalty before Barr added the fourth from almost on the line after Trouten had been sent clear and directed the ball towards the corner of the net.

Brechin rounded off their perfect afternoon in the autumn sunshine when Trouten was left completely unmarked to nod home the fifth goal with two minutes remaining.

0 STIRLING ALION

5 BRECHIN CITYA JACKSON 14, 63, TROUTEN PEN 67, 88, BARR 77

LEAGUE ONE

SAT 13THSEP 2014

ATT: 601

LAST TIME

KEY PLAYERCALLUM TAPPINGCallum Tapping could hold the key to Brechin City’s success this season, as his quality from midfield could be vital to unlocking the stubborn League One defences The City will face this season. Tapping attended school at nearby Larbert High School, before joining Celtic’s and then Tottenham Hotspur’s youth set ups. The youngster then signed for Hearts of Midlothian and played 30 times for the Gorgie side. The London-born 21-year-old has one cap for Scotland’s Under-21 side, and should really excel in League One given his impressive football schooling and promising career so far.

THE GAFFERRAY MCKINNONMcKinnon took over the reins at Glebe Park two years ago, having previously managed Scottish Junior Football Club Lochee United in Dundee. A creative midfielder in his playing days, Mckinnon had a glittering start to his career. His form for Dundee United convinced Nottingham Forest’s legendary manager Brian Clough to fork out £750,000 to bring him south, a huge figure at that time. Finding his first team opportunities limited, he moved back north to Aberdeen 2 seasons later, before returning to his beloved Dundee United. Ray also played one game for the Bino’s during a trial in 2000, featuring against Queen’s Park at Hampden Park.


FEATURE

YOUTH FEATURE:ALBION DEVELOPMENT SQUADS IN TRANSITIONEditor David Chalmers talks to Head of Youth Stewart Taylor regarding Mark Wotte’s comments on the club not joining the Forth Valley Regional Academy and his thoughts on the link between the set-up and the first team squad.

It’s been all change in the youth structure of Stirling Albion with the club coming

under scrutiny during the summer for not being part of the SFA’s newly established Forth Valley Regional Academy, but away from the mainstream press the internal structure has undergone something of a shake-up.

Changing from the previous regime, those involved have decided to switch the set-up and thus widening the gap between the U17 side with the creation of an U20 side. Head of Youth Stewart Taylor spoke about the changes saying “The move to U20 it could be argued takes the youth set-up further away from the club with the jump from U17 to U20 a big step - especially when clubs are permitted to play up to five over-age (first team squad) players. The benefit for those in the team is that they are possibly prepared better for the step up from U20 to first team. Stirling Albion has so far

resisted the temptation to use its full over-age allowance so our young players are getting the opportunity to play.

“The problem arises if the manager wishes first team fringe players to get some game time and they take over a starting jersey from a young 17

year old. That hasn’t happened so far thankfully with our club but other clubs are definitely choosing to go down that route. Stirling had no option in this matter as the SPFL did away with the U19 games programme leaving the U20 Development League as the only game in

town.“Currently in the U20 squad

there are 12 players who have graduated from our youth set up and we have one of the youngest, if not the youngest, teams participating. It’s great that these players make up the bulk of a very good squad and hopefully a number of them will get the chance to progress further towards first team football in the near future.”

Of course the youth set-up has been fruitful for Greig McDonald with a series of players making the step-up to first team level, and Lee Hamilton has started every game so far this season having started under David Binnie and Graeme Donald’s U19 squad.

“It is great to see Lee Hamilton and Sandy Cunningham doing well at first team level. I think the fans appreciate their progress from our youth set-up to the first team. Hopefully Ross McGeachie will get another chance soon. Along with David


FEATURE

and Graeme we believe that there are certainly a number of very good potential first team players in the U20 set up. We can only hope that Greig will be in a position to give them a chance at first team football.

“Recently we ‘transferred’ a youth player, 17-year-old Ally Roy, to Hearts. Ally has already had two first team outings with Hearts having been on their books and admittedly training full time for only two months. Fingers crossed that a few more of our 17-years-olds might get a first team debut soon.”

Taylor went on to speak about the progression in all the youth squads so far highlighting the number of changes.

“The four youth teams are well into their Club Academy Scotland fixtures and have had games all over Scotland in recent weeks, including trips to Inverness and Elgin. The U13 team is struggling a bit as a newly formed team, and they are still in search of their first victory. There are good players involved and hopefully a win or two soon will see them step forward with more confidence.

“Our U14 team underwent major changes as they graduated from U13 last season. These changes have worked almost immediately as they have secured three wins, a draw, and only one loss in their season so far. The U15s are also a new team with a number of useful looking recruits. Their results have been much improved as the new signings find their feet at Club Academy level.

“The U17 team is almost an U16 team with 14 of the squad eligible to play again next

season. They are up against older players each week but are still looking good for the future. Results are not the important thing right now but obviously winning games breeds confidence and helps development. It is however a marathon and not a sprint when developing youngsters.”

There was certainly an annoyance in the air when Taylor spoke about the coverage of the club’s decision regarding the Forth Valley Regional Academy.

“Both the club and myself were very disappointed by the articles that appeared in the National press regarding our decision not to join the Forth Valley Academy. The article was inaccurate and unfair and Mark Wotte said some things that were both wrong and unfair.

“The Club Chairman took this up at the highest level but unsurprisingly the Scottish FA blamed the press instead of offering an apology. Stirling were not the only club to decline the invite as Alloa Athletic also did not consider it appropriate for them to join the pilot. A journalist in the audience however seemed to be intent on asking about Stirling Albion and Mark Wotte unfortunately got caught in his trap.

“There were numerous reasons for Stirling Albion FC not to join the pilot Regional Academy. None of the questions surrounding how the Academy would function were answered in the rush to get the pilot started. It would have meant an almost total loss of club identity for those involved in our own club youth development programme and

the SFA could not give a definite answer on how a boy entering the Regional Academy would end up playing at first team level for our club. Importantly, it was also unsuitable from a financial standpoint for the club to consider at the time.

“The Regional Academy is only a pilot and Mark Wotte has admitted it might not work. The signs from the Forth Valley Academy and the newly formed Fife Academy suggest that there have been many difficulties with the concept.

“Mark Wotte suggested that I was only interested in producing players for Stirling Albion FC. As a volunteer for the Scottish Schools FA (23 years as a National Coach), 40 years as a volunteer for Forth Valley Schools and seven years as a volunteer on the council of the Scottish FA it seems Mr Wotte and the reporter who wrote the article in the National press did not do their homework.

“Since we started the Youth Development programme at Stirling Albion FC 18 years ago the club has signed on a professional contract over 55 players who started out as youths. We didn’t really see the benefit of driving a forty ton truck through what is apparently an operation that works for our club and the players involved.”

It’s fair to say that Taylor is confident in his and the club’s decision making this summer, and who can blame him when you see the kind of young talents that are pulling on the Binos’ jersey and even those who have left for pastures new.

STEPHEN AL-SAYED JOINS COMMUNITY TEAM

The community team has a new recruit among the ranks this month as Stephen Al-Sayed, who also plays for the SAFC U20s, takes up his post as Modern Apprentice. Everyone will be aware that Sandy Cunningham filled this role last season but unfortunately Sandy’s year in post has come to an end and I would like to thank him for all his hard work - he played an important role in the first year of our community programme. Hopefully Sandy will stay involved in some capacity but as the apprenticeship is only for one year, Stephen comes in as his replacement.

Stephen has already done some voluntary coaching and was with us during the recent summer programme this year which has benefited him greatly in the lead up to beginning his apprenticeship. He is already out leading some sessions himself, which has probably been the main positive from having him involved a little earlier before his apprenticeship started. He began work in September and has really made a flying start,

something I am certain he will continue over the coming months. I’m sure you will all join me in welcoming Stephen on board and no doubt you will get to know his face around the stadium and in the local communities.

BOOK ON OUR WEEKLY CLASSES!!

You can now book onto our weekly football classes that we are running in various communities around the Stirling area with our partners Active Stirling. We are running “Mini Kickers” classes for 3-4 year olds, “Play The Game” centres for children aged between 5 and 12, “Player Development Centres” for slightly more advanced players aged 9-12 and a goalkeeping class for

children aged 8-14.

The classes provide a fun and enjoyable environment for children to practice their football skills, play plenty of games and meet new friends! The first 7 week block will soon be coming to an end but the next 7 week block begins just after the October holidays.


COMMUNITY CORNER

O C T .2014

All the information on venues, days and times can be found at www.stirlingalbionfc.co.uk/community/class-details/ or www.activestirling.org.uk. Bookings can be made via Active Stirling on 03000 280 101 or 01786 273 555.

OCTOBER HOLIDAY CAMPS

Bookings are also now being taken for the October holiday camps. The schools are off week beginning 13th October and we are running football for boys and girls Monday to Friday that week at Forthbank.

There are hour long classes for 3-4 year olds, 3 hour sessions for 5-6 year olds and 7-14 year olds can attend for a full day 9am-4pm!! As with all our holiday camps there will be Stirling Albion prizes to be won throughout the week!

Visit www.activestirling.org.uk/activekids for more information and how to book.

TESCO BANK PROGRAMME

The Tesco Bank Programme 2014 is has kicked off in a number of schools this month. P2s and P3s at Bridge of Allan, Cornton, Fallin, Raploch and Riverside primaries are currently enjoying the sessions being delivered over a 6 week block. The sessions teach children some basic football skills through skill practices and fun games. They also take part in a number of small sided games during a couple of the sessions to put their new skills into practice!

At the end of the block, the aim is to try and direct as many of the children as possible into more regular, structured football sessions with a local football club. Look out for updates as the programme progresses.

JUNIOR BINOS ACTIVITY PAGE

Our Junior Binos page has returned for another season! Congratulations to Heather Emslie who has won a signed ball for getting the most correct answers in our August edition. This month we are

carrying over a fantastic prize, by extending the deadline from September, of a Family 2 Game Bowling Package courtesy of our friends at AMF Bowling Stirling! Be sure to complete and return the form to be in with a chance of winning!

GIRLS FOOTBALL

We are still on the lookout for girls to join our expanding girls programme. The programme is being run in partnership with Central Girls and will see the girls training twice a week and playing matches on a Saturday morning. If you are a girl, or you know one who is interested in taking part in regular football with Stirling Albion, please contact myself for more information via the usual channels below.

Get following us on Facebook and Twitter for all the

latest!!

Facebook - www.facebook.com/SAFCCommunityTwitter - @SAFCCommunityWebsite - www.stirlingalbionfc.co.uk/communityEmail - [email protected]

Andy33 / OCTOBER 2014 / WWW.STIRLINGALBIONFC.CO.UK

COMMUNITY CORNER


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JUNIOR BINOS----------------------------

CROSSWORDCHALLENGE:WORDS TO BE FOUND:IKECHI ANYADARREN FLETCHERGORDON STRACHANHAMPDENFLOWER OF SCOTLANDTARTANSTEVEN NAISMITH

Look out for diagonal words and words written backwards!

WORLD CUP QUIZ1. WHAT WAS THE SCOTLAND V GERMANY SCORE IN THE FIRST EURO 2016 QUALIFYING GAME?

2. WHICH PLAYER SCORED SCOTLAND’S GOAL?

3. CAN YOU NAME ALL THE COUNTRIES IN SCOTLAND’S GROUP FOR THE EURO 2016 QUALIFIERS?

4. WHICH REGULAR SCOTTISH INTERNATIONALIST USED TO PLAY FOR STIRLING ALBION?

5. WHICH CLUBS DO IKECHI ANYA, STEVEN NAISMITH AND ALAN HUTTON CURRENTLY PLAY FOR?

G NF H YK N Q C VM L H HYL AL A AA F L A PW G R FTR OZ H NV M Q I KX I R GJC TP P CW E P R MK J K ZZT HZ E QB A E S ND A R ATJ UT M RY C R E QI R X VLR PO T HY O A D NT H F QVN BJ I VE N F S MA O T IUK NM K NA X W A NS F N SRJ NS E ZF R U C VI O H KBY LZ F BV B O S OZ O Y NDT EA W QV O M Y KA T R YOT OO C FU V M J MT M F OLT TS I SG B B Y MY A A PUE HR T EC L F E RN R D NA

YKAPTWMBOLKCQGD

UF Y I N T R O QS X J HY F D


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SPOT THE BALL---------------------------

NAME:

SCHOOL:

AGE:

PARENT’S NAME:

PARENT’S CONTACT NUMBER:

Pictured is Stirling Albion’s Ross Forsyth. The position of the ball has been blanked out with 3 possible options. Put a cross in the box where you think the ball is.

Please return all Junior Binos answers to Andy Todd at Forthbank Stadium no later than Friday 24th October 2014. Answers will be checked and all forms with the most correct answers in the word search, quiz and spot the ball combined will be entered into a draw. The winner of the draw will win a FAMILY 2 GAME BOWLING PACKAGE courtesy of our friends at AMF Bowling Stirling!! Entrants can be 16 years and under.

COACHING STAFF


STIRLING ALBION SQUAD LIST 2014/15

GREIG McDONALD MARC McCULLOCH DAVID WESTWOOD GREG PATERSON

CALLUM REIDFORD LEE HAMILTON JAMES CREANEY CHRIS SMITH

CRAIG WEDDERBURN ROSS FORSYTH ROSS McGEACHIE PHIL JOHNSTON

GOALKEEPER

DEFENCEGOALKEEPER

DEFENCE MIDFIELD

INA SHAW MBE DRON & DICKSON LTD VICTOR & DEBBIE NELSON

SAFC SUPPORTERS TRUST BOARD

BRAEHEAD TAXIS-

CAUSEWAYHEAD BUILDING SERVICES

DRON & DICKSON LTD SAFC SUPPORTERSCLUB

IAIN GLEN PETER MCKENZIE MCKENZIE TRAILERS LTD ROY & SHEENA MCFARLANE


SQUAD LIST 2014/15 STIRLING ALBION

MIDFIELD

DARREN LEE SMITH DALE FULTON WILLIAM ROBERTSON

GRAHAM WEIR DAVID McCLUNE DARREN SMITH BLAIR MUNN

SANDY CUNNINGHAM STEVEN DORIS LEWIS COULT GORDON SMITH

CRAIG COMRIE

MIDFIELD

FORWARD

CRAIG SMITH GARRY CAIRNS JOINERY IAIN PATERSON ALASDAIR DUNN

VICTOR & DEBBIE NELSON

IAN ALLARDICE DAVID & ALEX KNAPMAN W TURNBULL NEWSAGENTS-

JIM THOMSON

CRAIG STEWART BRIDGE OF ALLAN SUPPORTERS

ROBERT MCCRINDLE TYLAR ROWLEY

Allanwater Café, Bridge of Allan David Bennett & Son Butchers Braehead TaxisBurn Stewart Distillers Ltd Deanston Distillery Visitor Centre CAS Hire UK Ltd Ceramic Tile Distributors StirlingClark & Drummond CaterersAndrew Craig Roofing LtdDavidson Cruse Wealth Management Ltd Corrieri’s Café, CausewayheadDron & Dickson LtdR.S. Erskine & Co Ltd OpticiansFalkirk & Central Scotland SamaritansThe Golden Lion HotelHill & Robb SolicitorsKay Garage Doors_W. Kay LtdKilgannon Motors Ltd

Macfarlane Gray / French Duncan Llp

McKenzie Trailers LtdMorrisons Garage Ltd

Ogilvie Homes LtdScott Direct / AA Components

Scottish National PartyDr Richard Simpson MSP

Smart Fit StirlingSpringkerse Auto Centre

Strathallan PharmacySwim Easy Ltd

Tilly Confectionery LtdTorwood Fencing Ltd

Trinity Mirror Plc Stirling Observer Daily Record & Sunday Mail

Unison Stirling Council - Anti Racism

WoodWinters Wines & Whiskies

MAIN SPONSORHUNTER’S EXECUTIVE

COACHES

TRAVEL SPONSOR

STADIUM ADVERTISERS

SPONSOR

Tel 01786 463 920 Fax 01786 463 413Email [email protected]

4 Craig Leith Road, Broadleys Industrial Park, Stirling FK7 7LQ

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The Albion - October 2014

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Transcript of The Albion - October 2014