The Albion - September 2013

Albi nSTIRLING ALBION F.C. OFFICIAL MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2013

the

BOBBY GILMOUR: IN PROFILE

ISSUE #21 I £3.00

#21

@StuartKenny @DavidJChalmers

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

Kit ManGregor Dryden

Club DoctorMichael Beyer

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

Under 19 CoachesGraeme DonaldDavid Binnie

Community Engagement ManagerAndrew Todd

Club ChaplainDuncan Strathdee (0778 991 2259)

Editors’ Notes

CONTENTSREGULAR FEATURES:03. INSIDE THE BOX 04. ALBION NEWS05. FROM THE DUGOUT 14. THE LOCKER ROOM

PREVIEW OF TODAY’S MATCH16

2 SEPTEMBER 2013 / WWW.STIRLINGALBIONFC.CO.UK

The domestic season is now well under way and the Binos have made a flying start to the new season.

It’s great to see the guys continuing the form with which they ended the previous campaign and sitting joint top of the league as we go into today’s tie with Annan. If the Binos can keep up this rich vein of form it will no doubt be a fruitful footballing year in Stirling.

It is our delight to welcome long time Albion favourite Bobby Gilmore to the stadium today, and inside you will find a fitting tribute to the prolific goal scorer who threw the Stirling crowd into regular celebrations during his time at the club.

Elsewhere, we catch up with Community Engagement officer Andy Todd, find out all the latest from the academy and provide all the previews and interviews you need to take on today’s encounter with Annan as a well learned fan.

We hope you enjoy your latest issue of the Albion.

Regards,Stuart K

The international break has seen the Forthbank pitch gain a rest from the rough and tough of League Two life and allow Binos fans a week without the tension that is a Stirling Albion match!

We welcome you back to Forthbank with open arms, and with a new Albion magazine for you to get stuck into. Editor Stuart Kenny previews the defenders in League Two while Jim Thomson has written about special guest Bobby Gilmour.

You can catch up on the latest with the youth teams with David Binnie answering questions on their progress. Don’t forget the U19s play Ayr United at the Forthbank Astro on Sunday with a 3.15pm kick-off.

I’ll take a moment to apologise for an error in last month’s issue with regard to my notes...a lesson to be learned in proofing!

Inside there are previews of today’s match as well as for the away games against Elgin City and Berwick.

Hopefully Greig and the boys can get the three points today and the goals to put the team top of the league!

Regards,David

24

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SEPT. 2013 I #2103. INSIDE THE BOX 04. ALBION NEWS05. FROM THE DUGOUT06. MATCH REPORT VS. PETERHEAD08. MATCH REPORT VS. EAST STIRLING09. MATCH REPORT VS. QUEEN’S PARK10. BOBBY GILMOUR FEATURE14. THE LOCKER ROOM: SANDY CUNNINGHAM16. MATCH PREVIEW: ANNAN18. SEGREGATION AT FORTHBANK22. STIRLING ALBION QUIZ24. COMMUNITY CORNER26. AWAW PREVIEW: BERWICK RANGERS29. AWAY PREVIEW: ELGIN CITY30. LEAGUE TWO DEFENSIVE PREVIEW34. AT THE ACADEMY36. SQUAD AND SPONSOR PROFILES36. LEAGUE TABLE

THE LOCKER ROOMSANDYCUNNINGHAM

COMMUNITYCORNERANDY TODD

INSIDETHE BOX STUART BROWN OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Editors:Stuart Kenny & David Chalmers

Contributors:Scott Binnie, Stuart Brown, Jim Thomson

Thanks to:Jim McInally, Annan Athletic FC, David Binnie, Montrose FC, Greig McDonald, Andy Todd, Jim Thomson,

Photography:Andrew Wightman, Connor Hamilton, Montrose FC, Annan Athletic FC, Deena Mobbs (redweb), Dave Murty, Neils Bootma, Daily Record, ESPN, Issuu

Design:David Chalmers

Printing: Mailboxes Etc. Stirling

Contact:[email protected]

Interact:T| 01786 450339E| [email protected]| stirlingalbionfc.co.uk

Club Honours C Division Champions 1946/47

B Division Champions 1952/53

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

Division One Play-off Winners2006/07

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

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/thealbionmagazine/stirlingalbionfc

Albi nthe

SEPTEMBER 2013 / WWW.STIRLINGALBIONFC.CO.UK

Arguably this edition of the magazine should be referred to as a Match Day Programme, with only one home game this month. The international break last weekend brought this about and

I have my own views with regards to a blank Saturday so early in the season, with the weather almost guaranteed to be set fair. However, on this occasion, with a number of niggling injuries, it’s probably been a blessing in disguise. Today’s team news, will confirm how many of those injuries have had time to clear up over the past fortnight.

A very warm welcome to Forthbank to everyone associated with Annan Athletic. Last season’s goal tally – seventeen – in the four fixtures might suggest we are in for a goal feast this afternoon but on closer inspection the last 88 minutes did not produce a single goal following Stephen Day’s second minute winner. I’d settle for that scoreline again this afternoon!

Our remaining fixtures for September take us to the polar extremities in respect of SPFL 2 journeys. First up, a trip south of the border to face Berwick Rangers and the following Saturday, the long trip north to play Elgin City. Providing the speed cameras on the A1 are given due respect, the return journey to Berwick isn’t that bad and the Elgin trip is probably only of major concern to the locals imbibing at the Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore as they await the contents of the Supporters’ Bus to descend upon them on the return journey!

Earlier this month, SAFC hosted Scotland v Iceland at under 19 level, with a full international being played on Tuesday 3rd and a behind closed doors match on Thursday 5th September. Whilst the pitch could do without the additional games, the financial benefit to the Club cannot be under-estimated. Nor can the amount of work that has to be undertaken, both in the lead up and on the match days themselves. I am indebted to all those that assist me in making these events successful but most particularly Margaret McFarlane who’s home baking and Bennetts Butchers, 86 High Street Dunblane, Steak Pies (that’s got to be worth some sponsorship?!) go down a treat.

On the community front, I am delighted to be able to report that Andy Todd is about to start his first formal “external” programme in local primary schools – The Tesco Bank Programme. He’s also been out and about at a number of community events over the summer, including the “Street Football” initiative that culminated in a tournament prior to our August fixture versus Peterhead and a half time presentation to the Player of the Year.

The hot news re community is that Andy has already “recruited” a team member! Sandy Cunningham (yes, our Sandy!) has just started a year long Modern Apprentice role and thanks to our partnership with Active Stirling, he will be working for SAFC, alongside Andy, throughout this time. Check out the Community Corner for all that is going on!

It’s the Scottish Cup first round today and soon we’ll discover who our second round opponents will be and whether or not you will be reading the next edition of “The Albion” at this game or the week after!

Finally, a mention for our Stirlingshire Cup Semi Final tie versus East Stirlingshire. The game has been set for Tuesday 8 October at Forthbank Stadium with a 7;45 p.m. kick off. We’ve keep admission as low as possible (£5 Adults, £2 Concessions and under 17s go free with a paying adult) having taken account of the considerable costs attached to staging a home game. I appreciate the tournament isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but please come along on the night to support what will be a mix of current first team players and under 19s.

Enjoy today’s game!

Stuart BrownOperations Director

@StirAlbionMag@stirling_albion


ALBION NEWSNEXT HOME GAMEOur next League 2 game at Forthbank is the visit of Albion Rovers on Saturday October 12. Next week we make the trip across the border to face Berwick Rangers and it’s a journey to the Highlands to play Elgin City on September 28, before the Scottish Cup takes centre stage on October 5.

WELL DONE SANDYCongratulations to 18-year-old Sandy Cunningham, who scored his first senior goal in our 2-0 win over Queen’s Park at Hampden at the end of August. Sandy joined us from Falkirk last summer and developed in the U19 squad under the guidance of Graeme Donald and David Binnie before being handed his first-team debut in the Scottish Cup defeat to Deveronvale last November.

STIRLINGSHIRE CUP SEMI-FINALOur Stirlingshire Cup semi-final against East Stirlingshire will go ahead at Forthbank on Tuesday October 8, kick-off 7.45pm. John Coughlin’s side beat a young Alloa team on penalties after a 2-2 draw last week while we received a bye in the first round.

JAMIE McCUNNIE MOVES ONJamie McCunnie left the club towards the end of August by mutual consent due to a combination of family and work commitments. The 30-year-old joined us from IR Reykjavik in March 2012 and had been a regular in the side since then, featuring in both defence and midfield. Binos boss Greig McDonald said: “I would like to thank Jamie for all of his efforts during his time with Stirling Albion. He is a model professional and has been an absolute pleasure to work with. We wish him every success for the future.”

LOWLAND LEAGUE OFFERAll Stirling Albion season ticket holders will be admitted to Stirling University home games at Forthbank for the concession price of £2 (normal admission price £4).

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITYStirling Albion are taking bookings for matchday hospitality for the 2013/14 season, at a cost of £65 per person inclusive of VAT. Included in the price is a champagne reception from 12.30pm, a three-course dinner with wine, and a half-time buffet. There is also a complimentary bar both before and after the game until 5.30pm. We pride ourselves on the reception and experience on offer in our hospitality suites and you will be assured of the warmest of welcomes. To book a place, please call the SAFC office at Forthbank on 01786 450399 or via email [email protected]

GOLDEN LION EVENTOur Christmas Party night will be held in the Golden Lion Hotel in Stirling on Friday November 29. Tickets are on sale from the club, priced £39.

WILLIAM HILL SCOTTISH CUPThe first round of the William Hill Scottish Cup takes place today. We enter the competition in round two on Saturday October 5, along with the other clubs in League Two, plus Cove Rangers, Formartine United, Whitehill Welfare and Dalbeattie Star.

FIRST-ROUND DRAWEdinburgh University v SpartansThreave Rovers v RothesGolspie Sutherland v Edinburgh CityHuntly v Preston AthleticColdstream v Wick AcademyGirvan v Auchinleck TalbotSelkirk v Turriff UnitedFort William v Newton StewartForres Mechanics v KeithFraserburgh v Civil Service Strollers Gala Fairydean Rovers v Glasgow UniversityWigtown and Bladnoch v Buckie Thistle Brora Rangers v Vale of LeithenDeveronvale v ClachnacuddinInverurie Loco Works v Burntisland ShipyardHawick Royal Albert v St Cuthbert WanderersLossiemouth v CulterLinlithgow Rose v Nairn County

FIXTURELISTJul 27 RC R1 Raith Rovers (A) L 1-2 Aug 3 LC R1 Hamilton (H) L 0-3 Aug 10 League Two Montrose (A) W 2-1 Aug 17 League Two Peterhead (H) W 2-0Aug 24 League Two East Stirling (H) L 1-3Aug 31 League Two Queen’s Park (A) W 2-0Sep 14 League Two Annan (H) Sep 21 League Two Berwick (A) Sep 28 League Two Elgin City (A) Oct 5 Scottish Cup R2 Oct 12 League Two Albion Rovers (H) Oct 19 League Two Montrose (H) Oct 26 League Two Clyde (A) Nov 2 Scottish Cup R3 Nov 9 League Two East Stirling (A) Nov 16 League Two Queen’s Park (H) Nov 23 League Two Annan (A)Nov 30 League Two Berwick (H) Dec 7 League Two Albion Rovers (A) Dec 14 League Two Elgin City (H) Dec 21 League Two Peterhead (A) Dec 28 League Two Clyde (H) Jan 2 League Two East Stirling (H) Jan 11 League Two Queen’s Park (A) Jan 18 League Two Berwick (A) Jan 25 League Two Annan (H) Feb 1 League Two Montrose (A) Feb 8 League Two Peterhead (H) Feb 15 League Two Albion Rovers (H) Feb 22 League Two Elgin City (A) Mar 1 League Two Queen’s Park (H) Mar 8 League Two East Stirling (A) Mar 15 League Two Clyde (A) Mar 22 League Two Montrose (H)Mar 29 League Two Annan (A) Apr 5 League Two Berwick Rangers (H) Apr 12 League Two Albion Rovers (A) Apr 19 League Two Elgin City (H) Apr 26 League Two Peterhead (A)May 3 League Two Clyde (H)

5SEPTEMBER 2013 / WWW.STIRLINGALBIONFC.CO.UK

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUTGREIGMCDONALD

September brings another tough month of games as we welcome Jim Chapman’s Annan to Forthbank before we travel to face Berwick and Elgin. Annan have added quality and experience over the summer and will come to Forthbank in confident mood after a good start to the season - however we know that we are capable of causing any of our opponents problems and we’ll certainly be looking to do that. Looking ahead to our away games, both Berwick and Elgin finished above us in the league last season but with two away wins already we’ve made a positive start to our away form and hopefully with a large travelling support behind the team we can look to build on that this month. The international break invites mixed opinion from part-time clubs but on this occasion it has certainly been a positive for the simple reason that it has provided our injured players with additional recovery time. Jamie Bishop strained a hamstring in the warm-up at Hampden at the end of August while David McClune injured his ankle after landing awkwardly during the game itself. Both have been working hard at their rehab with our physio Jenna Orr and hopefully we’ll have them back in action soon.

The closed-doors game against Arbroath a week past Thursday allowed us to try one or two things while giving the players valuable game time against strong opposition. Squad wise, our new signings have settled in well and we’ve been very pleased with the start they have made

to their Stirling Albion careers. We have a good blend of youth and experience in the squad, a point that was emphasised by Sandy Cunningham and Mark Ferry getting our goals in the victory at Hampden, and they will all play an equally important role throughout the season. I would like to formally thank Davie Eccles for all of his work with the goalkeepers over many years at the club. Davie has decided to take a step back from first-team duties - however he has been of great support to not only our goalkeepers over the years but also to myself, Marco and previous Albion management teams. I’m delighted that Davie will continue to work with our younger goalkeepers and oversee their training and development. I’d also like to officially welcome David Westwood to the club as First-team Goalkeeping coach. I’ve known ‘Westy’ for many years, having worked with him at East Fife and I’m certain he will be an asset to the club.

Finally, I would like to thank you all for your continued support and backing. The relationship between our supporters and players will play a key part of any success we achieve as a club and by working together we can make Forthbank a very difficult destination for our opponents, hopefully starting today against Annan. Enjoy the game!

C’mon the Binos

Greig

“THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OUR SUPPORTERS AND PLAYERS WILL PLAY A KEY PART OF ANY SUCCESS WE ACHIEVE AS A CLUB AND BY WORKING TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE FORTHBANK A VERY DIFFICULT DESTINATION FOR OUR OPPONENTS,

HOPEFULLY STARTING TODAY AGAINST ANNAN.

FIXTURELISTJul 27 RC R1 Raith Rovers (A) L 1-2 Aug 3 LC R1 Hamilton (H) L 0-3 Aug 10 League Two Montrose (A) W 2-1 Aug 17 League Two Peterhead (H) W 2-0Aug 24 League Two East Stirling (H) L 1-3Aug 31 League Two Queen’s Park (A) W 2-0Sep 14 League Two Annan (H) Sep 21 League Two Berwick (A) Sep 28 League Two Elgin City (A) Oct 5 Scottish Cup R2 Oct 12 League Two Albion Rovers (H) Oct 19 League Two Montrose (H) Oct 26 League Two Clyde (A) Nov 2 Scottish Cup R3 Nov 9 League Two East Stirling (A) Nov 16 League Two Queen’s Park (H) Nov 23 League Two Annan (A)Nov 30 League Two Berwick (H) Dec 7 League Two Albion Rovers (A) Dec 14 League Two Elgin City (H) Dec 21 League Two Peterhead (A) Dec 28 League Two Clyde (H) Jan 2 League Two East Stirling (H) Jan 11 League Two Queen’s Park (A) Jan 18 League Two Berwick (A) Jan 25 League Two Annan (H) Feb 1 League Two Montrose (A) Feb 8 League Two Peterhead (H) Feb 15 League Two Albion Rovers (H) Feb 22 League Two Elgin City (A) Mar 1 League Two Queen’s Park (H) Mar 8 League Two East Stirling (A) Mar 15 League Two Clyde (A) Mar 22 League Two Montrose (H)Mar 29 League Two Annan (A) Apr 5 League Two Berwick Rangers (H) Apr 12 League Two Albion Rovers (A) Apr 19 League Two Elgin City (H) Apr 26 League Two Peterhead (A)May 3 League Two Clyde (H)


Match Report

FULTON AND JOHNSTON ENSURE BINOS VICTORY

CrawfordMcGeachieForsythMcAnespieBishopSmithJohnstonFerry (75)WhiteWeir (84)Fulton (66)

Subs:CoyneDayClarkRobertsonMcClune (75)McCunnie (84)Weatherston (66)

SmithSharpNoble

StrachanRoss

Cowie (75)Cox (66)Redman

McCann (66)Brown,Gilfillan

Subs:Buchan

RichardsonFitzgerald

JarvieMcGlinchey (75)

McLaren (66)Rodgers (66)

PETERHEADSTIRLING ALBION LEAGUE TWO17TH AUGUST, 2013

REFEREE: E. ANDERSONATT: 573FULTON 27’

JOHNSTON 75

2-0

The Binos showed just what they are capable of after securing an important win against pre-season title favourites Peterhead to go joint top of the table.

Both teams ended the match with 10 men after Blue Toon sub Andy Rodgers and Stirling skipper Jamie Bishop, who had earlier been booked, were red carded in the 81st minute for an off-the-ball incident that was spotted by the assistant.

Peterhead, missing last year’s top scorer Rory McAllister, enjoyed plenty of the ball but it was Greig McDonald’s side who took their chances in our first Forthbank encounter in League 2.

Full-back Ross McGeachie returned to the starting XI in place of Jamie McCunnie while Stephen Day was back in the squad after a one-match ban.

Recent signing Dale Fulton broke the deadlock in 27 minutes when he robbed defender Bryan Gilfillan and ran on to beat former Kilmarnock and Rangers keeper Graeme Smith with a shot that went in off the left-hand post.

It was the ex-Falkirk midfielder’s second goal in only his second game for the Binos, following his debut strike in last week’s 2-1 win at Montrose.

Winger Phil Johnston sealed the points 15 minutes from time when he picked up a loose ball and thundered a superb 25-yard drive into the corner.

Before that, Crawford had made a wonderful save to keep out a Gilfillan header as Peterhead, who kicked off with a 2-2 home draw against Annan last Saturday, enjoyed a good start to the second half, but in general they failed to create many openings.

Fulton was denied when his shot was cleared off the line by a defender but Johnston’s second goal for Stirling made the game safe to leave us on the six-point mark, along with fellow early pacesetters East Stirlingshire and Albion Rovers.

WINGER PHIL JOHNSTON SEALED THE POINTS 15 MINUTES FROM TIME WHEN HE PICKED UP A LOOSE BALL AND THUNDERED A SUPERB 25-YARD DRIVE INTO THE CORNER.

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Match Report

EAST STIRLINGSHIRE GET THEIR REVENGE

CrawfordMcGeachie (75) ForsythMcAnespie (63)Clark (46)SmithJohnstonFerryWhiteWeirFulton

Subs:McCluneCunninghamAsheRobertsonDay (63)Coyne (75)Weatherston (46)

HayMcGregorMcGowanTownsley

BolochoweckyjThomson

McKechnieGreenhill (87)

Turner (71)Quinn

Wright (80)

Subs:TappingHendrie

CampbellGordon

Kelly (71)McCaughie (87)

Miller (80)

EAST STIRLINGSTIRLING ALBIONBOLOCHOWECKYJ 5’QUINN 23 ‘MCKECHNIE 53’

LEAGUE TWO24TH AUGUST, 2013REFEREE: G. AITKEN

ATT: 735WHITE 78’

1-3

East Stirlingshire won at Forthbank for the first ever time to move two points clear at the top of the League Two table and end the Binos 100% record with a thoroughly

deserved win.

John Coughlin’s side were thrashed 9-1 here in March but have recruited well over the summer and claimed their first win in Stirling since a 1-0 success at Annfield in August 1985 with some comfortable ease.

Albion failed to create any clear-cut chances until the closing stages and Jordan White converted a David Weatherston cross in 78 minutes, but it was too little, too late for the home men.

Greig McDonald made one change to the team that beat Peterhead 2-0 last week, with Jamie Clark replacing suspended skipper Jamie Bishop.

Shire made the short journey on the back of victories over Queen’s Park and Elgin and looked the hungrier side, scoring

three goals for the third match in a row.

Michael Bolochoweckyj netted the opener with a near-post header from a corner after just five minutes and Paul Quinn slammed home the second midway through the first half after being set up by the outstanding Max Wright, who had seized on an error by Ross Forsyth.

Wright had earlier been denied by the post and the ex-Stranraer winger again struck the woodwork eight minutes after the interval, but this time Jordan McKechnie was on hand to finish the rebound. Quinn then missed a great opportunity to add a fourth goal but his tame shot was easily saved.

The Binos, who went to three at the back at half-time and finished with only two defenders on the pitch pulled one back through Jordan White and Mark Ferry was thwarted by keeper Grant Hay, but this was a day when all the plaudits went to the visitors.


STIRLING ALBIONQUEEN’S PARK

Sandy Cunningham and Mark Ferry came off the bench to score in the closing minutes as the Binos once again moved level with East Stirlingshire at the top of League Two.

It was the perfect response to last weekend’s disappointing de-feat and means we go into the international break having won three out of four.

Greig McDonald’s side missed several good chances before se-curing our first victory at Hampden since 2004 and leave Queen’s Park still seeking their first point of 2013/14.

Cunningham broke the deadlock with eight minutes left, help-ing the ball over the line for his first senior goal after the 18-year-old’s header from a Kieran McAnespie free-kick had come back off the post.

Ferry sealed the points when he was picked out by Jordan White’s pass in stoppage time and nodded home from close range after his initial shot had been saved by the excellent Michael Brown.

Stirling went into the game without skipper Jamie Bishop, who was injured in the warm-up, so McAnespie lined up alongside birthday boy Chris Smith in defence.

David McClune, later forced off with an injury, made his first start of the season and there was also a first start for ex-Spider

David Weatherston against his former club. Winger Stephen Day was restored to the team as Ferry and Jamie Clark dropped to the bench while winger Phil Johnston was ruled out with a knock.

Albion carved out a number of good opportunities in the first half but Brown made a fine save from White, McAnespie’s free-kick was deflected narrowly wide, Weatherston rattled the post from the edge of the area and the same player saw a net-bound effort blocked by a defender.

The Spiders, hit hard by a huge number of summer departures, not to mention a couple of suspensions and the absence of mid-fielder David Anderson, had a better spell in the second half but Binos keeper David Crawford was rarely tested and Stirling were generally comfortable.

When McClune was thwarted by Brown, and a penalty appeal for handball was turned down, you wondered if a goal would come but Cunningham pounced in 82 minutes.

Fellow sub Bradley Coyne then blazed wide when clean through before former Forfar and East Fife No 1 Brown did well to push a Cunningham drive round the post.

Ferry grabbed the clincher three minutes into injury time and put Stirling in a prime position to continue their good form against Annan Athletic today.

CUNNINGHAM 82’FERRY 90’

LEAGUE TWO31ST AUGUST, 2013REFEREE: G. ROSS

ATT: 527

Match Report

CUNNINGHAM GETS DEBUT GOAL IN HAMPDEN WIN

0-2

BrownMitchellMcComishKeenanBroughMossonSpittalBatyVitoria (77)QuinnBurns

Subs:GibsonRooneyMcVeyLochhead Davison (77)

CrawfordMcGeachie

ForsythMcClune (64)

McAnespieSmith

Weatherston (77) FultonWhite

WeirDay (79)

Subs:ClarkAshe

RobertsonFerry (64)

Cunningham (77)Coyne (79)


BOBBY GILMOUR• 89 goals in 154 games• Scored twice on his trial• Highest ever Binos league finish• Stirling 7-0 St Mirren – most league goals scored away from home• Regular top scorer• Nine league cup goals in 1961/62 season to take Binos to the cup semi-final

Bobby Gilmour is regarded as one of the best centre forwards ever to pull on the Stirling Albion jersey.

Overall, the front man scored 89 goals in 154 outings, many of them netted against the elite of Scottish football.

The prolific Gilmour’s footballing career kicked off at East Lothian’s Soneyburn Juniors and moved to Partick Thistle in January of 1957. Bobby’s appearances for Thistle were limited and despite a scoring record of one goal every two games he was freed by the Maryhill outfit.

Albion manager and Club Director Tom Fergusson had a reputation for picking up good quality free players and getting the best out of them. Newly promoted to the top division in Scottish football, Fergusson was on the lookout for a centre forward with First Division experience. Gilmour, released by Partick Thistle was offered a trial against Raith Rovers in a Penman Cup tie. Bobby scored twice in the 5-0 victory and was immediately offered a contract.


PROGRESSION

Stirling started season 58-59 with a squad of 27 players, only one being a recognised centre forward - Bobby Gilmour. The other, Willie Grant was on national service and unavailable. After a slow start, Bobby found his shooting boots and scored a club record 22 league goals in top flight football.

Season 58-59 also produced another record for Stirling Albion FC - it is the highest league position ever recorded - 12th best team in Scotland.

Injuries kept Bobby sidelined for part of season 59-60. His total of 12 goals included four scored at Love Street - the Albion hammered St Mirren by seven goals to nil, another game for the record books. Most league goals scored away from home and a personal best for Bobby Gilmour.

The win at Love Street was followed by another away victory, 4-2 against Airdrie. At this stage the odds were on Albion avoiding relegation, but that same week saw new manager Alex McRae take up the vacant Falkirk post, Sammy Forsyth stepping in as temporary manager. Dunfermline FC looked doomed to relegation and they too changed their manager, Jock Stein took over and six successive wins saw them overtake the Albion, who in turn failed to win any of their remaining games.

THE 60S BATTLE

Danny McLennan was given the manager’s job in the summer of 1960. Despite relegation, he retained 20 of the squad from the previous season. Derek Grierson was brought in to bolster the midfield and John Park was also signed, a prolific scorer for his junior club - Shotts Bon Accord.

The mixture of youth and senior players paid dividends. Bobby played a huge part in the helping the club win the championship, again finishing top scorer.

10,000 Albion fans poured into Annfield to watch the promotion challenge between Albion and Stenhousemuir on 22 April 1961. A Warriors victory


would bring them within a point of the Albion who led the Division by one point from Falkirk. A win for the Bairns and an Albion defeat would see Falkirk take top spot. An Albion win was essential to their promotion hopes.

The pitch was almost unplayable as the Warriors defended the covered terracing end of the ground. Bryce put the ‘Muir ahead in 9 minutes only for Bobby Gilmour to equalise a few minutes later. Albion took the lead near the interval, then had a goal disallowed just on half time. Leading 2-1, the Albion were expecting a Stenhousemuir onslaught shooting down the Albion slope. Instead goals from Kilgannon, Bonthrone, Gilmour and a Hannah own goal meant an easy 6-2 win over their closest challengers.

Falkirk also won their game by 8-1 against Albion Rovers. The championship would be decided on the last game of the season. Falkirk were away, to bottom club Morton and the Albion away to the Shire. The Bairns had an easy 5-1 win at Greenock and the Albion cruised home to win by four goals to one to take the championship. Albion were rewarded with a trip to Palma.

On their return the Albion, again thanks in part to Bobby Gilmour, would create another bit of club history. His nine league cup goals took


the Albion to a cup semi final against Heart of Midlothian, played at Easter Road, 11th October 1961. The Albion lined up - Wren, McGuiness, Pettigrew, Myles, Sinclair J, McGregor, Sinclair W, Dyson, Gilmour, Spence and Lawlor. It took an extra time winner to defeat the Albion, as they lost by two goals to one.

THE FINALE

A month later, manager McLennan was sacked as manager and replaced by second team coach Sammy Forsyth. Injuries would once again sideline Albion centre forward Gilmour, but once again he finished top scorer for the fourth season in a row.

1962-63 would see a change in direction from the club. New manager Sammy Forsyth took the view that signing free transfer players was no longer the way to succeed and set about developing a youth policy. Bobby however continued to find the net; this time Park and Lawlor scoring more goals to deny him top spot.

Season 63-4 started with another new manager, Sam Baird taking over in June of 1963. Bobby only played two games under the new manager and despite scoring in both; he was allowed to leave the Club on a free transfer. He played a few trial games for Airdrie before moving south to play for Chelmsford.

CLUB RECORD

Season Games Goals1958-59 39 231959-60 31 151960-61 35 221961-62 24 131962-63 23 141963-64 2 2


It was an amazing feeling - especially at Hampden it was definitely good. For it to happen there at the home of Scottish football made it extra special.

YOU BAGGED YOUR FIRST GOAL FOR THE BINOS AGAINST QUEEN’S PARK LATE ON. HOW GREAT DID IT FEEL TO GET OFF THE MARK IN YOUR SENIOR CAREER?

Very good. It was an amazing feeling - especially at Hampden it was definitely good. For it to happen there at the home of Scottish football made it extra special.

THE WIN AT HAMPDEN WAS THE LATEST IN WHAT HAS BEEN A GREAT START TO THE SEASON AT THE CLUB. THE TEAM MORALE MUST BE HIGH JUST NOW?

The morale is pretty high just now, yeah. I’m still getting teased for my first goal of the season but it’s really decent and hopefully we can go on now and push on for the rest of the season.

IS THERE A FEELING AMONG THE PLAYERS THAT YOU CAN PUSH ON NOW AND CONTINUE THIS KIND OF GOOD FORM THAT BEGAN TO SHOW AT THE END OF LAST SEASON?

Yeah, that’s the mood in the dressing room. We want to improve from last season and make a good impression but we’ll just see what happens in the end.

I don’t want to say too much yet because you look at a club like Queen’s Park who have had a bad start

THE LOCKER ROOM

SANDYCUNNINGHAM

““

STUART KENNY CATCHES UP WITH


to the season, but I’m sure they’ll get better and i’m hoping that we can maintain this form for the rest of the season.

HOW VITAL WAS IT TO BOUNCE BACK AGAINST QUEEN’S PARK AFTER THAT FIRST LOSS OF THE SEASON TO EAST STIRLING?

I definitely think it was important to get a big result after losing to East Stirling. They’ve had a great start to the season but again hopefully we can build on that win at Queen’s Park and build on the whole performance.

FINALLY, WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL AIMS FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON?

Just to score as many goals as possible. The big aim would be double figures but I’ll just take it goal by goal and see how I do.

That’s the weight off the shoulders though and I can play with a bit of confidence now and hopefully get a few more.

CAREER RECORDPOSITION:FORWARD

DOB:05/04/95

2013/14 APPS/GOALS:0+2/1

PREVIOUS CLUB:FALKIRK

HOME SPONSOR:CATE WATSON

AWAY SPONSOR:CRAIG STEWART

ALBION DEBUT:STIRLING 0-1 DEVERONVALE, SCOTTISH CUP R3, 03/11/12


MATCH PREVIEW:STIRLING ALBIONVS. ANNAN ATHLETICSEPTEMBER 14TH - FORTHBANK STADIUM - 3PM KICK-OFF

CLUB PROFILE:Founded: 1942 Stadium: Galabank Capacity: 2007Nickname: Black and Golds Manager: Jim Chapman

PREVIEW BY DAVID CHALMERS

If this fixture is to go anything like last year’s opener then we’re all in for a treat as the Binos produced a five-star performance to kick off the 2012-13 campaign.

Despite Albion securing a 5-1 win at Forthbank on the opening day of last season, Annan got their revenge in November with a 5-2 win of their own proving that there is still such a thing as home advantage in football. Of course both fixtures seen red cards with the game at Fortbank seeing Annan’s Graeme Ramage sent off and the Binos ended up with only nine men on the field after half time at Galabank with former players Sam Filler and Gary Thom seeing red.

When the two met after the New Year things were less feisty as Stirling ground out a 2-1 win at Forthbank before going to Galabank to earn a narrow 1-0 win with just two games left to go in the campaign. The three points ended up the difference between the sides in the table last year as Albion as finished on 45pts, two points ahead of eighth-placed Annan.

This season hasn’t quite went to plan for Jim Chapman yet with his side yet to keep a clean sheet in the league and conceding eight goals in the process. In four games the Black and Golds have also scored seven with David Hopkirk scoring three of them.

They opened the season with a 2-2 draw at Peterhead after taking the lead on both occasions. Hopkirk netted after 24 minutes before Bryan Gilfillan levelled proceedings in the 56th minute. Amazingly Hopkirk scored just a minute after

the equaliser but it meant little when David Cox scored five minutes from times to earn a point.

Kenny MacKay and Steven Black were in amongst the goals in their second game of the season and if it wasn’t for a late Gary Wood penalty Annan would have kept a clean sheet.

Former Binos striker Scott Davidson got his first goal for Annan when he netted from just inside the area to beat goalkeeper Neil Parry late on in the 1-1 draw with Albion Rovers. David Crawford had slotted home a penalty for Rovers after Pete Weatherson was deemed to have been shirt-tugging in the area.

Things got heated in their last league fixture before the International break with seven yellow cards being issued away at Berwick, but despite managing to rile up the home side Annan failed to come away with anything from the game. A Scott Dalziel brace complimented goals from Kenny O’Brien and Darren Lavery for the hosts with David Hopkirk and Ally Love scoring for Annan. Love scored a penalty, while Hopkirk scored a screamer.

Despite losing their last league game Annan played during the international break in the Scottish Challenge Cup Quarter-Final beating Formartine United 4-0 at Galabank courtesy of another Ally Love penalty and finishes from Kenny Mackay, David Hopkirk and Keiran Brannan. The win should breed confidence into their campaign as they look to put together a run of form and climb up the table. Albion fans will be hoping this comes after the game today!

DESPITE LOSING THEIR LAST LEAGUE GAME ANNAN PLAYED DURING THE INTERNATIONAL BREAK IN THE SCOTTISH CHALLENGE CUP QUARTER-FINAL BEATING FORMARTINE UNITED 4-0 AT GALABANK COURTESY OF ANOTHER ALLY LOVE PENALTY AND FINISHES FROM KENNY MACKAY, DAVID HOPKIRK AND KEIRAN BRANNAN.

17

With 5 goals under his belt already this campaign, David Hopkirk is clearly the danger man for Annan despite being just 20-years-old.

A man with SPL experience from his teenage years, the former Hamilton Academicals man joined the Black and Golds on loan in November 2012 following a spell at Queen of the South.

Having trained with Premier League club West Bromwich Albion and spending time in Hearts reserves during the 2011-12 season, Hopkirk undoubtedly has star potential and proved last year that he’s matured into the focal point of this Annan side. 10 goals in 19 starts is a phenomenal record and his physical frame could be a real test for the Binos defence.

With two Scotland Under-19 caps to his name Hopkirk is in the right form to progress through the leagues, and with a bit of luck on their side it could be with his current side, but his goals are masking some faults at the back with no clean sheets in the league thus far.

FIXTURESSTIRLINGSEPTEMBER 14THLEAGUE TWO

A

CLYDESEPTEMBER 21STLEAGUE TWO

QUEEN’S PARKSEPTEMBER 28THLEAGUE TWO

A

EAST STIRLINGOCTOBER 12THLEAGUE TWO

H

After eight games in charge Chapman won his first match as Annan manager against Rangers FC in an SFL Third Division fixture with Ally Love and David Hopkirk goals earning a 2-1 victory at Ibrox.

This followed a more than two-year break as manager of a football club as the Scotsman resigned from his role at previous club Dumbarton in October 2010, instead taking up a football development role.

Chapman had led the sons to the old Scottish Third Division title and a 6th placed finish in the Second Division. His win percentage

at the club was 31.75% with 40 wins in 126 matches. With 8 wins in 24 games at Annan he has a 33.33% win percentage and is just two wins away from his 50th career win as a manager. (Soccerbase has no stats recorded for Chapman’s spell at Albion Rovers)

This summer Chapman has brought in a number of new recruits to mould the squad his own way with former Stirling Albion strikers Scott Davidson and Peter Weatherson making their way to Galabank on a free transfer to compliment the loan signings of Newcastle’s Steven Logan, Carlisle’s Josh Todd and Dumbarton’s Martin McNiff.

KEY PLAYERDAVID HOPKIRK


THE MANAGER JIM CHAPMAN

ANNAN SQUADGoalkeepers:1 ArthurMitchellWilson

Defenders:2 Chisholm3 Bradley4 Davidson8 Flynn11 LoveBlackCurrieThorburn Alexander Swinglehurst

Midfielders:5 Watson6 Sloan7 Mackay14 Todd16 MoffatMcNiffMallinsonBaugh McCrudden JamiesonJardine15 Anderson

Forwards:9 Weatherson

10 Hopkirk12 Brannan17 BlackChanWillis

H


Following on from events at our last home fixture versus East Stirlingshire, I write to clarify the situation with regards to arrangements for housing supporters in the West (Home) Stand.

BACKGROUNDFor part of last season, following discussions with the Police, our Stadium Safety Officer and our stewarding company, it was agreed that we would trial housing home and visiting fans in the West Stand for games where it was considered the capacity of the Stand would comfortably accommodate everyone. The main driver for this decision was to cut down on costs.

We had planned to use the last section of seating at the Monument End to accommodate visiting fans only but with season tickets already sold for this area, it was considered inappropriate to ask fans to move mid-season.

Given this and the fact that it is not practicable to segregate toilet and refreshment facilities, the decision was taken (again following discussion with the relevant parties) to allow fans to sit where they wanted, aside from encouraging visiting fans to use turnstiles 3 & 4 and to sit in the end section as described above.

The above position was reviewed at the end of last season and whilst there had been no incidents of any major concern reported by the Stadium Safety Officer or stewards, we had received a number of complaints from home supporters that they were unhappy about the non-segregation of the seating arrangements for visiting supporters.

Taking everything into account and again in consultation with the Police, the Stadium Safety Officer and our stewarding company, it was agreed that the last section of seating at the Monument End of the West Stand would be designated for visiting supporters only. In order to make this possible, every Season Ticket holder that had a seat in this section was written to, during the close season, advising them of the new arrangement, apologising for the inconvenience and asking them

to select a new seat. All supporters who renewed their season ticket complied with this request.

SEASON 2013/14For the first home fixture versus Peterhead, a sign was in place at the end of the entrance tunnel directing visiting supporters to the end section and this, along with the stewards being briefed to appropriately direct fans to the designated area was considered sufficient, given the anticipated small number attending.

A further review was undertaken following the match and taking on board the recommendation of our Stadium Safety Officer it was decided that only visiting supporters would be permitted to sit in the end section. This arrangement was in place for the East Stirlingshire fixture and stewards were briefed not just to direct visiting supporters to this section but also to direct home fans away from it.

In hindsight, to visibly identify this area, it should have been cordoned off using barrier tape and I unreservedly apologise that this was not the case.

During the course of the match, stewards identified that some home supporters were occupying seats in this section and having sought guidance from the Stadium Safety Officer, they asked these fans to move to another section. Unfortunately some of those requested to do so, refused to comply. It is inappropriate to publicly detail any of the subsequent events that took place with regards to individual supporters but suffice it to say that a refusal to comply with a request from a steward, acting on instruction from the Stadium Safety Officer, is grounds in itself for the offenders to be removed from the Stadium. On the day, following consultation between myself and the Safety Officer, the decision was taken not to remove anyone from the ground and to allow the game to run its course.

THE WAY FORWARDA debrief meeting was held at the end of last week between the Club, the Stadium Safety Officer and a senior representative of the stewarding company and the

following will be in place for all home games unless otherwise notified in advance:

• Visiting supporters will be directed to use Turnstiles 3 & 4• Signage will be in place inside the ground to inform all fans of the designated area for visiting supporters• Barrier tape will be in place to identify the perimeter of this area• Stewards will be briefed to direct visiting supporters to this area and home supporters away from it• The catering and toilet facilities at the Monument End will remain communal• Any variation to the above for operational reasons will be communicated in advance via the Club Website and signage / barrier tape will clearly identify the designated visiting supporters area for that particular fixture

Please be aware that anyone refusing to comply with a request / instruction from the Police, the Stadium Safety Officer, a match-day steward or a Club Official to move from the “wrong” seating area will be removed from the Stadium.

Whilst I appreciate that these arrangements will not meet with universal approval, they have been put in place with the best interests of everyone in mind and I would ask everyone attending Forthbank Stadium to comply. Please note stewards are acting under the instruction of the Stadium Safety Officer who has ultimate and complete responsibility for all matters pertaining to crowd control and safety.

I repeat my apology that better communications were not in place prior to and during the East Stirlingshire game. As ever, I am happy to discuss this or any other pertinent matter – please contact the Club by telephone, e-mail or in writing to arrange.

Stuart BrownOperations Director

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1) THE BINOS RECORD VICTORY IS OF COURSE A 20-0 DEFEAT OF SELKIRK IN THE SCOTTISH CUP, BUT WHO WAS THE MANAGER AT THE TIME?

2) WHICH STIRLING STAR NETTED THE WINNING GOAL AS THE CLUB RAN OUT 1-0 WINNERS OVER RANGERS LAST SEASON?

3) CURRENT BINOS GAFFER GREIG MCDONALD KICKED HIS SENIOR PLAYING CAREER OFF AT WHICH CLUB?

4) FOR HOW MANY YEARS DID THE ALBION PLY THEIR TRADE AT ANNFIELD?

5) STIRLING ALBION BECAME THE FIRST BRITISH CLUB TO EVER PLAY IN JAPAN IN WHAT YEAR?

6) AND DURING THIS WORLD TOUR, THE BINOS FINISHED THEIR PLAYING TIME WITH A DEFEAT OF THE JAPANESE NATIONAL TEAM. WHAT WAS THE SCORE?

7) WHICH STRIKER NETTED FOUR TIMES AS STIRLING DEFEATED EAST STIRLINGSHIRE BY A MASSIVE 9-1 SCORE LINE LAST MARCH?

8) DURING WHAT SEASON DID ROBERT SNODGRASS PLAY ON LOAN FOR STIRLING ALBION?

9) THE BINOS RECORD ATTENDANCE AT FORTHBANK WAS RECORDED IN A SCOTTISH CUP TIE AGAINST WHICH TOP FLIGHT SCOTTISH SIDE IN 1996?

10) FOLLOWING ON FROM HIS TIME AT STIRLING, SUCCESSFUL EX-BINOS MANAGER KEVIN DRINKELL WENT ON TO TAKE CHARGE OF ONE MORE CLUB IN THE SCOTTISH LEAGUES. WHO WAS IT?

THE STIRLING ALBION QUIZ

ANSWERS

1. ALEX SMITH 2. BRIAN ALLISON 3. BRECHIN CITY 4. 48 5. 19666. 4-2 7. JORDAN WHITE 8. 2006/07 9. ABERDEEN 10. MONTROSE

Street Football – Stirling’s Street Football programme came to an end during August with the annual tournament being held at Forthbank.

The programme ran over 5 weeks this year and was delivered to young people in Raploch, St Ninians, Bannockburn and Dunblane. Street Football aims to reduce anti-social behaviour, get young people off the streets and participating in some regular football activity. Active Stirling and Stirling Youth Services have worked in partnership to deliver street football to the Stirling communities over the last few years and we are delighted that Stirling Albion has now been able to join as a partner through our new community programme. The tournament this year went really well with the young people receiving a coaching session before their tournament began. Ricky Graham also won the player of the year prize, a trip to Hampden for a coaching session and a tour taking place later in the year. Ricky was presented with confirmation of his prize at the Peterhead game and took part in some half time activity along with the other young people.

TESCO BANK PROGRAMMEThe Tesco Bank programme has kicked off in schools this week. Football will be delivered to p2 and p3 children in some schools for a 6 week block as part of the programme. Bridge of Allan, Riverside and Cornton primary schools have sessions starting this week with Stirling Albion and a number of other schools in Stirling will have sessions starting with Active Stirling. All children who receive the sessions will be invited along to local clubs for after school sessions to start new age groups and get them involved in more regular football activity.

MATCH DAY ACTIVITIESWe have had a busy programme of match day activities over the last few weeks. During August there were two big pre match events in the form of the Games for Scotland, an event run in partnership with Active Stirling for the Commonwealth Games, and the fundraising day at Springkerse View for the John Hartson foundation. On top of this we had the Stirling City All Stars playing on the pitch pre match at the East Stirling game a few days before they headed down south for a very successful Special Olympics. We have welcomed Stirling Albion Junior Academy 2002s and Milton FC 2002s for half time 10-second challenges as well as the young people from Street Football for a half-time match at the Hamilton, East Stirling and Peterhead games respectively.

MODERN APPRENTICEAnother benefit from the partnership formed with Active Stirling is the modern apprenticeship programme. Through this the club have been able to appoint a modern apprentice from Active Stirling for a year. We are delighted that Sandy Cunningham will be in place as our modern apprentice and has already begun working in the programmes. Sandy will also complete an SVQ level 3 training programme delivered by the Sports Academy of Scotland. Keep an eye out for updates on the modern apprentice which should be released very soon!

Even though there is only one home game this month, the next few weeks promise to be as exciting as the last few as the programme continues to grow. Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter and keep an eye on the website for regular updates on everything that is going on!

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

Enjoy the match.

Andy

COMMUNITYCORNER



AWAY PREVIEW BY SCOTT BINNIE

BERWICK RANGERSWe travel to hosts Berwick Rangers on 21 September and

the Wee Gers will pose a significant threat after a start to the season almost as impressive as our own.

Berwick started their league campaign with a disappointing 1-0 loss to Clyde but since then are unbeaten in League Two, picking up wins over Queen’s Park and Annan Athletic either side of a 1-1 draw with Montrose.

It’s the two victories that will be of most interest to Greig McDonald’s men though as they both occurred at Shielfield Park and each game saw the hosts score four times, with Berwick winning 4-0 and 4-2 against Queen’s Park and Annan respectively.

At the time of writing, Berwick are sitting just two points behind East Stirlingshire and the Binos on seven points in third place – depending on how results go beforehand, the tie at Shielfield could very well be a battle for top spot.

Alongside their impressive league campaign, Berwick enjoyed a run to the second round of the Ramsden’s Cup after a stunning 3-2 win over Championship outfit Livingston in the opening game of the season.

Their cup charge was halted when the Wee Gers were beaten by the big Gers at Ibrox at the end of August, with Andy Little and Barrie McKay providing the goals that saw off what was a stubborn opponent on that night and indeed on all four meetings between the sides last year in the Third Division.

There was to be no such run in the league cup for the Borderers as they trounced 5-0 at home by Cowdenbeath in the first round, an oddity given the fortress they have made their Shielfield Park ground since then.

Rangers’ biggest threats so far this season have come from strike duo Darren Lavery and Scott Dalziel.

The partnership has chipped in with seven league goals already, all of which have come in the last three fixtures.

Dalziel’s tally of three so far is only one short of his haul for the entirety of last year, when he joined Berwick mid-season after a disappointing run at Brechin City in the Second Division.

The forward is clearly back to enjoying his football though and that has shone through in both his performances and his scoring ability.

Lavery’s presence in the bottom tier of Scottish football, regardless of its name, this season has surprised many after a fantastic campaign last year that looked to possibly entice teams from higher up the divisions into making a move for the talented striker.

However the front man has remained at Berwick and there will be nobody happier about that than manager Ian Little.

Lavery scored 20 goals last year across league and cup and has already chipped in with four this season, so he will be looking to repeat that excellent goal tally again this season as Berwick look to push into the playoff places again.

For the Binos though the man that could yet prove too hot to handle is Lee Currie.

Currie was the biggest thorn in Stirling’s side last season as he scored in all but one of the four meetings between the sides in the Third Division.

In fact Currie four times in those three games, including two in the bizarre 6-3 Stirling victory in December, with just one more goal picked up in the rest of the league season.

He wasn’t able to get on the scoresheet in the final meeting of the season when a late Mark Ferry strike sealed the points at Forthbank and the Binos will hope to be able to keep that the same at Shielfield.

LAST TIME… AT SHIELFIELD Our last visit to Berwick was on the evening of Tuesday 3 March

last year and ended in a sickening 1-0 defeat thanks to a very late deflected Lee Currie free kick.

The game looked destined for a goalless draw before that kick so cruelly took a big hit off the wall and sailed past Sam Filler and the Binos endured the long journey home in great disappointment.

Chances were at a premium but Jordan White and Fraser McLaren both went extremely close at either end and Lee Currie missed an early penalty.

This fixture brought our seven-game unbeaten run to an end and, in hindsight, was probably what put paid to our admittedly faint playoff hopes – a win would have moved the Albion closer to the top four and stopped Berwick from leapfrogging Montrose.

However we ended last year in tremendous fashion and the Berwick defeat was one of only two losses in our last 17 games of the season.

In fact we bounced back from this defeat with a record-breaking 9-1 thrashing of East Stirlingshire, so the pain of the Berwick loss wasn’t too long in lingering.

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PHOTO FROM MONTROSE FC VS. BERWICK RANGERS FC

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AWAY PREVIEW BY STUART KENNY

ELGIN CITYA painful start to life in the SPFL for Elgin City has lately

given way to a stream of hope that suggests the club can recover from their faltering first steps if they can gain

some consistency.

Indeed, a brace of concerning defeats at the hands of first Albion Rovers and then East Stirling left the men in black and white pointless after two league ties, and although a 2-2 draw at Peterhead may have hinted at a return to form, when it is considered that the club were two goals to the good at the Blue Toon before conceding twice in the final 15 minutes, the fixture tells a different story.

Nevertheless, Ross Jack’s men bounced back last weekend when they recorded a much needed 1-0 win over a confident Clyde side. A singular win to put them four points clear of Queen’s Park at the bottom of the table and, more importantly, to potentially provide the shot of adrenaline needed to kickstart their domestic campaign before it becomes too late.

It has certainly taken the hand of a veteran striker to force the rejuvenation of City thus far. Two goals in the last two games from 36 year old veteran Dennis Wyness has earned the side their four points so far, and proven that although the front man may not have the legs he once did, he certainly still possesses the finishing abilities that made him a top flight hero not so long ago.

The former Inverness and Hearts favourite still holds the record for the most goals ever scored for Caley Thistle with a tally of 101, and through travels to play for the likes of Aberdeen, St Mirren, Queen of the South and Dumbarton, there can be no doubt that Wyness knows as much about the striking game as any other in League Two.

At the top end of the pitch, the veteran forward has been helping out long time Elgin scorer Craig Gunn, who has over 50 league goals to his name for City in under 150 matches played. The 26 year old ex-Ross County man has been with his current side since 2009 and has become a frequent netter since then, regularly putting away an impressive double figure goal tally each season without fail.

These two attackers combined against the Blue Toon to give their side a commanding lead, and the duo – particularly Wyness – came close to adding to the scoreline on several occasions. Where Ross Jack’s men seem to be fatally flawed though, is at the other end of the pitch.

After shipping three goals without reply to East Stirling on match day two in the Scottish bottom tier, the Borough Briggs men went on to open the floodgates in a 5-1 loss to Scottish Highland League team Formartine United. The club’s late collapse at Peterhead only added to this woe further to the extent where

a following clean sheet at Clyde will not have been enough to calm the nerves of the Elgin support. It is certainly a start though.

Against Formartine, Elgin were cut apart by speedy runs and – albeit they were down to ten men – the team were completely denied possession for much of the second half. Against East Stirling, the club appeared venerable throughout to the counter-attack, something that would cost them dearly as the in-form Shire ran rampant, and against Peterhead, the defence struggled to clear their lines in face of increasing pressure.

In the club’s most recent tie however, a 1-0 defeat of Clyde, there was no sign of the defensive errors that has reared their head in previous matches. Rather, their back line provided the base for a commendable win over the Bully Wee.

In this encounter, high balls were dealt with well, cover was provided for onrushing team-members and full-backs did well to spread the ball forward after quelling Clyde attacks. This is something that must become a regular occurrence if City are to push on now and move to the top half of the table.

With this strong defence behind them, a talented front line was able to snatch Ross’ men a victory in what could easily have been a goalless match against the Bully Wee. The men at the back excelled in order to match the performances of their counter parts at the other end of the pitch, and if they can continue to do so, it could yet be a promising season for the men from Borough Briggs.

THE LAST TIME… AT BOROUGH BRIGGSIt was all about Kieran McAnespie last time the Binos travelled

up to Borough Briggs. A brace of goals in the first-half saw Stirling first take the lead and then regain it, and once the club had taken a one goal advantage for the second time – there was no turning back.

Former Fulham man McAnespie opened the goal scoring within ten minutes with a long range strike that left Elgin keeper Malin stranded, but a tap in from Stuart Leslie 15 minutes later meant it was back to level pegging.

From here, McAnespie stood up again to produce another remarkable goal. This time the goal came eight minutes before the break. This time the goal was a timely volley worthy of high praise.

A strong victory at a tough stadium to travel to, and one that Greig McDonald will be happy to emulate in his upcoming tie with the City.



With the season now off to a suggestive start, Scottish League Two patterns are begin-ning to unveil themselves and give fans

a little bit of an inkling about which sides may be the teams to trouble this term, which attack-ers might be the ones to keep an eye out for, and which members of the back lines will be the toughest to beat.

After brining you the attacking preview of the Bino’s domestic rivals in our first Albion mag of the season, we thought it only made sense to conjure up a walkthrough of some of the top defenders in League Two – outside of the Forthbank fighters of course – for the issue ahead.

Have a read on to find out some of the detailed specifics regarding a few of the elite stoppers that Greig’s front lines will face off against this term.

RYAN MCGEEVER - PETERHEADAfter a slow start to the season, Peterhead

bounced right back into action when they ended East Stirling’s chances of recording four straight wins in a row for the first time in 55 years with a commanding 4-1 win. In the process, they may just have rebooted a campaign that many predicted would take them close to the title, and the defensive unit was a key staple in ensuring this was possible.

Prime among this back line, adding a new touch to an experienced line up consistent to that of last season, is Ryan McGeever, a Falkirk loanee signed on for the season. With several appearances for the Bairns to his name and a new contract signed this year that will keep him at Falkirk till 2016, the 18 year old Scot will have a chance to prove that he can play in the higher ranks this term. He will no doubtl look to do this by continuing the aerial dominance and no-nonsense style of centre back play he has developed at his home club.

ALAN CAMPBELL – MONTROSEThe longest serving player at Montrose with over

130 appearances to his name, Alan Campbell has now been with the Links Park outlet for four years now having joined just before the start of the 2009/10 season.

A firmly established centre back in the division, Campbell has become somewhat of a fans favourite with the Gable Endies, picking up the fans award last term, and also having secured player of the year trophies during his time spent playing with the club.

THEDEFENSIVEPREVIEW


Campbell is a powerful, tough tackling central defender who is versatile enough to be deployed anywhere in the back lines. After a start to the season of various up and downs at Montrose, he will no doubt be vital in stabilising the ship and securing the club can get back on track for a finish in the right half of the table.

ALAN REID - ALBION ROVERSIt has been a mixed start to the new Scottish set

up for newly relegated Albion Rovers. While the ambitious side have only kept one clean sheet so far, they have also only conceded just four league goals in as many games, and as such find themselves in good knick on the early leaderboard.

In what is largely a new look Albion side than the one that fell from last year’s Second Division, many supporters of the red Rovers will be looking to veteran Alan Reid to hold their side together. While not often the headline grabber, Reid has become renowned at Cliftonhill for his professional defending – getting on with his job without any need for panic or cause for attention.

The right back has been with his current club for over five years now after joining from Hamilton and is now fully established as one of the most experienced and valuable players in their ranks.

DEVON JACOBS – BERWICK RANGERS

Former Stirling Albion man Devon Jacobs has become a regular starter at Berwick Rangers since singing up at the start of the 2012/13 campaign. A key part of the Livingston U19 side which won three championships in a row early in his career, the South African – who famously signed up for the Lions alongside three of his brothers some years ago – has made a strong start to his new campaign at Shielfield Park, playing part in a defence that has conceded a joint lowest four goals so far in the league fixture list.

With several injuries in the Wee Rangers back line, Jacobs early return from a knee problem was vital for Ian Little’s men, and a smart defensive mindset that leaves Jacobs always ready to counter will make him a tough opponent for many this year.

RYAN FRANCES – CLYDEAfter a past campaign that saw the Bully Wee

concede 66 goals in their domestic campaign the club have looked to tighten up their defence this summer – and so far it seems to be working. One main addition to the back lines at Broadwood has been former St Mirren youth Ryan Frances, who has been performing strongly since signing on in pre-season.

The new look Clyde back line have yet to concede a goal at their home ground, and Frances has proved a key cog in Jim Duffy’s line up after the opening four games. After gaining two years of experience with East Stirlingshire – where he will perhaps be best remembered for attracting a 14 match ban when 19 years old – the now 21 year old signs on from junior side Vale of Clyde, and has impressed due to keen positional awareness and ability to break, as well as boasting a dangerous cross to threaten the best of defences.

The John Hartson Foundation has been set up through the determination of John himself as he continues to battle through his horrendous ordeal, this is the character of the man, his main focus will be to openly offer his experience in going through a

traumatic time since he was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer after ignoring a lump for 4 years, John admits himself that if he was aware of how easy it was to get checked

and that Testicular Cancer is over 90% curable if caught early enough he probably would not have had to go through the brain operations, lung operations and over 60

sessions of chemotherapy.

The aims and objectives of the Foundation will be to raise awareness of Testicular Cancer and how easy and most of all how important it is to check yourself on a regular basis, the foundation will also raise funds to provide cancer organisations more support

throughout the UK.

w w w . j o h n h a r t s o n f o u n d a t i o n . c o m

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AT THEACADEMYCO-EDITOR DAVID CHALMERS TALKS TO STIRLING ALBION COACH DAVID BINNIE ABOUT THE UNDER-19S RECENT FORM. DC: IN THE SPFL U19 YOUTH DIVISION YOU’VE YET TO LOSE A GAME, HAPPY WITH THE START?

DB: Very happy until this past weekend’s match away to Forfar Athletic. Definitely a case of two points dropped but overall we have been happy enough with the start to the new campaign.

We have kept two clean sheets in our opening two home fixtures and have looked comfortable without hitting the kind of form we know they are capable of. It’s still very early in the season but the signs are that the younger players who moved up from the U17’s have integrated well with the retained players.

THERE APPEARS TO BE NO SHORTAGE OF GOALS WITH 9 IN 3; HAVE YOU BEEN A BIT LUCKY OR IS THE ATTACKING TALENT IN THE

RANKS SOMETHING FOR OTHER TEAMS TO ENVY?

We have goals in the team for sure. The positive thing for us is that we are getting goals from all around the team. The strikers have been scoring and we are also getting goals from our midfielders.

Up until this past weekend our defence was looking mean and we will have to get back to preventing teams scoring on us. If we can do that then I have every confidence that we will be one of the highest scoring teams in the division this season.

AFTER KEEPING TWO CLEAN SHEETS AGAINST CLYDE AND ARBROATH, WAS CONCEDING 4 AT FORFAR A BIT OF A SHOCK?

A shock is one word for it! It was actually a case of dejavu. In last years fixture at Station Park, we lead 2-0 at half-time and ended up winning the game in the last minute by 4-3 courtesy of a Sandy Cunningham penalty, having been clawed back to go behind 3-2.

This time around we were totally dominant in the 1st half and led 2-0. My half-time team-talk centred around making sure that we kept things tight and look to secure the crucial 3rd goal. Unfortunately the complete opposite happened and we lost two early in farcical circumstances. They then went ahead and I was standing there wondering how on earth we could look so different from the 1st half.

We got back on terms only to lose a 4th as we pressed for the winner. Fortunately, Blair Munn, managed to restore parity with around 8 minutes to go. Incredibly, we almost stole it at the end with a penalty box strammash. Based upon our 2nd half performance, I don’t think we would have deserved to have won this time around.

I am normally a very calm person, but a severe rollicking was handed out in the dressing room and it was a quiet bus that took us home to Stirling. We will certainly have a defensive emphasis in our training this week.

IT’S AYR NEXT; WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM THEM? CONFIDENT OF KEEPING YOUR UNBEATEN LEAGUE RECORD THUS FAR?

Ayr leapfrogged us in the table on goal difference this week. If that adds an extra bit of spice to the fixture then so much the better. Like us, they have had a solid start to the new season and my feeling is that it will be our toughest test to date. We have them at home and I’m confident that we will improve from this past weekend and take care of business.


FIXTURE LIST AND RESULTSFriday 23 August, 2013Stirling Albion 2-0 ClydeForthbank Astro, 7.15pm (fixture reversed from Broadwood)Scorers: David Cross, Derek Murray

Sunday 1 September, 2013Stirling Albion 3-0 ArbroathForthbank Astro, 3.15pmScorers: Chris Paton (2), David Grant

Sunday 8 September, 2013Forfar Athletic 4-4 Stirling AlbionStation Park, 1pmScorers: Chris Paton (2), Jordan Sinclair, Blair Munn

Sunday 15 September, 2013Stirling Albion v Ayr UnitedForthbank Astro, 3.15pm

Sunday 22 September, 2013Scottish FA Youth Cup R2Stirling Albion v Alloa

Sunday 29 September, 2013Dumbarton v Stirling Albion

Sunday 6 October, 2013Stirling Albion v Celtic

Sunday 13 October, 2013Queen’s Park v Stirling Albion

Sunday 20 October, 2013Scottish FA Youth Cup R3


STIRLING ALBION 2013/14 SQUAD

David Crawford BrianAllison

Stephen Day

DavidMcClune

Danny Ashe

Jamie Clark

SAFC Supporters Club

Ian AllardiceIain Glen

www.skyeluxurycottage.com

HomeW Turnbull Newsagents

AwayJim Thomson

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Ross McGeachie

HomeMcKenzie Trailers

AwayCraig Smith

Graham Weir

Bradley Coyne

Dron & Dickson Ltd.

Ross Forsyth

Victor andDebbie Nelson

HomeRoy & Sheena

McFarlaneAway

Peter McKenzie

Chris SmithRod Turnbull

Sean Robertson


Contact the club on 01786 450399 to sponsor a Bino now!

STIRLING ALBION 2013/14 SQUAD

Greig McDonaldMarc McCulloch

Kieran McAnespie

Ina Shaw M.B.E

Jordan White

Tylar Rowley

Mark FerryBridge of Allan

Supporters Club

Phil Johnston

Jamie Bishop

SandyCunningham

HomeCate Watson

AwayCraig Stewart

Dron & Dickson Ltd.

David Weatherston

Dale FultonStirling Albion

Supporters Trust Board

Alistair Dunn

M McLachlan & A Dunn

LEAGUE TABLEPos Team P W D L F A GD Pts 1 East Stirling 4 3 0 1 3 1 4 9 2 Stirling 4 3 0 1 2 1 3 9 3 Berwick 4 2 1 1 2 1 5 7 4 Albion 4 2 1 1 1 0 2 7 5 Clyde 4 2 0 2 2 2 0 6 6 Peterhead 4 1 2 1 2 2 1 5 7 Annan Athletic 4 1 2 1 1 2 -1 5 8 Montrose 4 1 1 2 1 2 0 4 9 Elgin 4 1 1 2 0 1 -3 4 10 Queen’s Park 4 0 0 4 1 3 -11 0

*Table data taken from BBC Sport. Data correct as of 10/09/2013

TODAY’S OTHER FIXTURES

Albion v BerwickCliftonhill

15:00

Clyde v East StirlingBroadwood Stadium

15:00

Elgin v MontroseBorough Briggs

15:00

Peterhead v Queen’s ParkBalmoor

15:00

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The Albion - September 2013

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