Hippo141

AN UNOFFICIAL KILLIE FANZINE

ISSUE NO. 141

MADE IN SHORTLEES.... ..DOES AJ KNOW HIS BEST TEAM? ..TDIVINEINTERVENTION ..A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH

£2.00

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SHOOTING FROM THE HIPPO Greetings chums and as I’m writing this the morning after the fine win over Thistle I’m happy, rough, elated and feeling old!! In the old days it would be case of up to the Howard early for a curer…….nowadays it’s a long lie, endless Anadin extra and having to ask Mrs H when I got home, what did I have to eat and whats my name?

Firstly a warning to all you dudes who like to try a football coupon every Saturday, avoid the Scottish Premiership at all costs. More than ever it looks like many teams will just take turn about at beating each other and even Ross County managed their first win yesterday.

Before the Thistle game we had failed to score against Hamilton away then against St Johnstone in the cup. It looked like our pre-season predictions were coming home to roost but the Thistle game was excellent with Eremenko looking like a class above anyone else on the park. It is still a worry that we don’t have goalscoring striker but once AJ realizes young Muirhead is a natural scorer we may seem him played in his best position.

Elsewhere Killie’s latest off field own goal was Tommy Adams being bumped by the club this week. I reckon Tommy is the best known and most popular figure in the killie community…..and the club decides in its wisdom to chase him out the door. Tommy has taken no time to get fixed up with a new job and we wish him all the best for the future. We hope to see him at future away games as he has pledged not to return to RP. The new Marketing Manager will certainly have a job on her hands going out to customers who have had a great long term relationship with Tommy. I really despair and I’ll be writing an article in the next issue about the new extended board…..it will probably be called “New Board, same old shit”.

One other area for concern is the crowds, less than 4000 against Thistle (including 600 away fans) which followed 2500 in the cup game against St Johnstone. We were told the new directors would bring fresh ideas and innovation that would increase crowds…..well we are still waiting. Hopefully some more performances like yesterday will go a small way to boosting numbers.

You will see an article in this issue about the incident at the St Johnstone when a Perth fan took ill in the Sports Bar. Huge respect to Kevin Scoular and the other Killie fans who saved the guys life. I know St Johnstone FC are humbled by the reaction of the Killie fans and the sports Bar staff and Killie are giving hospitality to Kevin and the others……..lets hope it’s a long time before we have another incident.

Thanks to you all for your support, we have sold out our first two issues this season……please keep sending those articles.

Sandy

DOES AJ KNOW HIS BEST TEAM? We won’t harp on about how poor we were last season and the general feeling among the fans seems to be that we are a better team this time around. The home win against St Mirren was a great demonstration of a belief that we simply didn’t have a year ago.

Maybe Locke has made the difference, maybe it’s the new signings or maybe it’s the divine intervention of my wee chum waving his Armageddon banner. We would have lost or drawn that St Mirren game last year so, even though it’s early days, let’s have a look at what has changed – HOOFBALL Some fans were trying to defend our style of play last season but I’m afraid I just didn’t get it. It looked from afar that Sandy Clark was having a big influence on tactics and the favourite ploy was for Samson to launch it as high and long as possible. It really was basic stuff and sent the message that the management team had no confidence in the players to get the ball on the deck and pass it.

We all have contacts in the club and in the dressing room and it’s fair to say that the players hated it as well. I suppose it looked even worse since our previous two managers liked to keep the ball on the deck at all times. That did create a few nervous breakdowns in the East Stand every other week as it wasn’t comfortable watching centre backs try to do something that wasn’t natural. However I would always rather see the ball on the deck and I suspect the new surface lends itself to that style of football.

MANAGEMENT As we state above it appears that swapping Clark for Locke has been a positive move and the fact that they are friends off the field will hopefully help them forge a harmonious working relationship at the Theatre of Pies. It is still early days and anything could still happen but there are definitely some encouraging signs.

The general concensus was that Clark had way too much influence and AJ’s body language last season certainly didn’t reflect a happy chappy. Some fans who sit behind the dug outs have commented at how much more relaxed he appears this season and he certainly doesn’t appear to be playing the pocket billiards nearly as much.

Locke had a hard job at Tynecastle but the experience is bound to have stood him in good stead. The problem could be that he has a taste of management and may not be planning on spending too long as an assistant. He was in the betting for the recent Ross County vacancy and you can guarantee he will be linked with other jobs that come up.

Credit where its due to AJ all the same as he has hopefully learned from last years errors and we will all see the benefit this time. My one major worry is that he still doesn’t really know his best team. At last year’s club AGM he basically admitted he didn’t know his best team at that stage. He was roundly criticized for the comment but my niggling worry is that nothing has changed.

Of course folk will point out that different opposition will require different Killie personnel and formation but it is always good to have a bit of a settled look. I thought we had that a few weeks back but AJ has introduced a few changes and in all fairness they just haven’t worked. So lets have a wee run through the team…..

PLAYERS/FORMATION We’ll start with the defence and even at this early stage Samson is looking more assured. I felt some of the criticism he got last year was unfair however it cannot be argued that he did cost us a few goals. Maybe he is happier with the guys in front this time around and I have to say I’ve been impressed with Connolly so far.

I did think Ashcroft would play this year but Pasca has came in and done fairly well……..I do think Ashcroft will get his chance all the same. We don’t have a huge amount of cover in central defence and it could become a problem if we get one or two injuries. I suppose the same point could be made in many areas in the team, that’s what happens when you have a smaller squad I’m afraid.

I’d say the biggest cause for concern defensively is the full back positions.

Chantler has done pretty well so I’m happy with him for now but I don’t think we have a natural replacement if he gets clogged. O’Hara has played in that position but having said that young Mark has played in most positions.

I do worry about the right back slot as I reckon Barbour has been a wee bit of a weak link in the opening weeks. Don’t get me wrong, I like Barbour and thought he looked promising last year but he tends to get pulled out of position. He is still young and learning so hopefully he will step up to the mark as the season progresses.

The midfield area seems to present the biggest problem for AJ as he has plenty of options but doesn’t seem sure the best personnel or formation.

Hamill seems very settled in the holding role but other than that it looks like we will get constant change. I like both Clingan and Eremenko but there is a lack of “legs” when they both play. Slater was excellent before he get injured and I hope he gets reintroduced into the fray sooner rather than later…..it may well be Clingan who suffers as I suspect Eremenko will start whenever he is fully fit.

When Losa was here first time around he had full backs bombing on, Bryson bursting forward and Sammon looking to get behind the defence. We don’t have similar type players at present and Eremenko may not be effective as we basically don’t have the quality at present.

McKenzie and Obadeyi/Johnston are the guys to provide the width but in the case of Johnston I reckon he is more effective in a central role behind the striker. We need some of these guys to get closer (and beyond) the lone striker as Magennis has been getting isolated far too often.

I like the attitude and application of Magennis but scoring goals does look like his weakness…….a bit unfortunate for a striker. I hope he grabs a few and his confidence soars but I would be tempted to give Muirhead an extended run. He is a proven scorer and it was his introduction that got us the three points against St Mirren.

In summary, I don’t think AJ knows his best team yet and there may be a lot of experimentation before we get to the best 11. Lets stay positive though, at least it’s a million times better than last season.

PROVOSTS PAGE (Writes Jim Todd) Hi everyone. I am quite happy with the way things are going on and off the pitch this season so far. A young looking first team with growing confidence and stature. Let’s hope we keep being positive.

As Provost, it was my pleasant duty to host a civic reception for Hurlford United and Hurlford Thistle who both won their respective Scottish cups. As Moreen and Wullie Hamilton are right in saying….History. One village, two trophies!

I am delighted that the road signs leading into Hurlford will recognise this great achievement in declaring the history that was made.

East Ayrshire truly is the home of Scottish football. Bonnyton under 19’s won the Scottish cup last year, Bellfield under 17’s won the Scottish cup last year, Auchinleck Talbot won the Scottish cup for the 10th time last year.

And of course, Killie beating Celtic in the League Cup in 2012! One of the highlights of my life. Killie now join that exclusive club of teams that have won all three Scottish Honours. More please !

I have chosen Ayrshire Samaritans as my charity for 2014/15. Two people in Scotland commit suicide every day. A shocking statistic. The Samaritans offer a listening service when folk are at their most vulnerable.

Thanks to Sandy and all of the guys at the Howard who are organising a fundraiser in the pub in November.

Watch this space for more information each issue.

A visit from the Arabs tonight who used to be one of Killie’s bogey teams for a while; hopefully we can perform well enough tonight to stop another statistic!

Keep on Rockin’ in the Free World!

Hippo says – Thanks Jim and I’m sure all Killie fans will love the fans charity night on November 1st. We will publicise details as we get guests confirmed but it will be another great Killie night with all proceeds going to a fantastic charity.

September is Awareness for Childhood Cancer Month.

Cancer is a terrible disease that can affect 1/3 of the population either directly or indirectly during their lifetime. However, it seems a little more cruel when children are the ones battling disease.

Over the next few months we have a few fundraising events planned in memory of Steven Turnbull, who sadly lost his battle with Osteosarcoma aged 19yrs old.

Steven was diagnosed aged just 16 and within a few months had to have his leg amputated due to this horrible disease. Steven had a true zest for life and was a passionate Killie fan. One of his most memorable moments was when Tommy Burns came to visit and they spent hours discussing tactics and player selection in the comfort of his own home. You could say Steven had a helping hand in Killie gaining promotion in 92/93.

We have set up a JustGiving Text code in honour of Steven and you can donate directly to Clic Sergeant by texting (in true Killie style) KTID99 and donation amount of choice to 70070.

We have an charity evening planned on the 18th October, on what have been Steven's 40th Birthday. If anyone would like to make a donation to the raffle it would be greatly appreciated.

You can contact Nina McGinley via nina-cal@hotmail.co.uk or through

THE HIPPO 2014-15 SEASON PLANNER There are always lots of Killie related events throughout the year so here is a wee run through of dates to put in your diary: SAT 1ST NOVEMBER We are having a big Killie fans night in the Howard straight after our home game against Dundee. There will be Killie legends along, lots of Killie stuff and we may even try the After Eight Challenge (check google). It is all in partnership with Provost Jim Todd and all proceeds will go to Jim’s chosen charity The Samaritans.

SAT 15TH NOVEMBER It is Killie Trust Comedy Night 8 and we are back at the Sports Bar for what will be a cracking night. Comedians will be announced shortly and there is no Killie game as Scotland play the night before so get your tickets early as it’s sure to be a sell out.

TUESDAY 23RD DECEMBER This is the day I stop for my Xmas hols so it’s almost certain I’ll be bladdered. Can I ask you all to stay off the drink and keep your phone handy as I’ll need a lift home at some point.

APRIL 24th/25th 2015 Of course this is our 50th anniversary and the club will be organizing a big event………..watch this space.

JOB VACANCIES (Killing Football Communities) As part of our ongoing destruction of a football club we are committed to taking on new people who share our vision. Our record is second to none and we reckon we can deplete a club and community in half the time it takes some of our bigger city rivals.

With this in mind do you have the following: • • • •

No interaction skills Obnoxious character Detachment from the real world Personality of a brick

If you are successful then we can promise the following: • • • • •

If you are a popular figure in the local community….we'll bump you If you are a successful Killie minded fans group or youth community....we'll bump you If you bring in thousands of pounds via advertising and sponsorship....we'll bump you If you’re loyal and stay with over a number of years…we'll bump you If you’re committed to the football team in any way.....we'll bump you

Killing Football Communities has an unequalled record in chasing away good people who have the club at heart....we promise to continue this proud tradition.

We promise to go above and beyond the call of duty to reduce our turnover.

We are proud to have built the brand name to a point where we as popular as Rolf Harris.

Please come and join us (Warning - If you have a genuine desire for community involvement....f*ck off to Paisley or somewhere far away) If this is you then please submit your CV via e-mail to parasite@shitforbrains.co.uk......any applicants who are unsuccessful will be considered for the Community Engagement Board.

A Matter of Life and Death I'm sure all you punters, even the young crew, will have heard of the late great Bill Shankly. Bill was born in Glenbuck, Ayrshire and was a great character back in the 60's and 70's. He is generally credited as the manager who started the Liverpool glory years although it was his successor Bob Paisley who won most of the trophies.

However Shankly is probably best remembered for razor sharp one liners like "If a player is not interfering with play or seeking to gain an advantage then he should be".

Of course his most famous line is " Some people believe football is a matter of life and death, I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that". As we sit at Rugby Park and bite our nails to the quick during a derby against the scum I'm sure we know the point he is making however in reality some things are far more important that our beloved game.

Once again, prior to the cup game against St Johnstone, we had the terrifying sight of an ambulance flying into RP with the blue lights flashing. It has become an all too familiar sight for Killie fans and it sends a fear of dread racing through your body. At that stage I wasn't aware of what was going on but given our recent unfortunate record of tragedies it's fair to say many would fear the worst.

Off the top of my head I can think of four fans who have died having taken ill at a Killie game. It also happened last weekend at Tynecastle but it does seem that we get more than our fair share of sad incidents.

Back in 2006 "Lord" John Simpson died after taking ill at Tannadice watching his beloved Killie. John had been up to help present a cheque to the family of a Dundee Utd fan who was seriously injured in a car crash on her way home from a previous encounter at Rugby Park. John tool ill just at the start of the second half and it was distressing to see the emergency services working hard to revive him.

In March 2012 we all had one of the best days as a Killie fan when we beat Celtic in the League Cup Final but everyone remembers the tragedy endured by Liam Kelly when his dad took ill and died after the game. That one day truly showed the highs and lows of our game and who can begin to understand the mixture of emotions experienced by Liam that day.

A month later there was another tragedy at Rugby Park when Inverness fan John MacDonald collapsed and died in the Frank Beattie stand despite the heroic efforts of the medical staff. Much like John Simpson it happened in the second half and it was unsettling to see a guy fighting for his life in the stand while the game continued on the park.

In May 2013 great Killie fan Jim Haswell died after taking ill, again immediately after the interval. I knew Jim personally and it was heartbreaking to see this tragedy unfold in front of the East Stand crowd. The players left the field on this occasion but it was upsetting for everyone and it was another good man taken far to young.

Following Jim's death the KFCSA discussed if there was anything we could do to help should another incident ever happen again. We investigated the possibility of buying a defibrillator however there is normally four of these at the ground on a match day so we are well covered. We held meetings with the St Johns Ambulance folk as well as the British Heart Foundation and decided it would be a good idea to try and get more fans trained up on CPR and the proper procedures to follow if you see someone who takes ill and stops breathing.

We learned there were "Heartstart" classes (thanks Linda Wilson) where folk could go along, learn CPR, practice on dummies and hopefully gain a skill that would help in the future. Back in January around 17 of us headed to the St Marnock church hall to be put through our paces......little did we realise that it would be needed so soon.

Whilst sitting at the St Johnstone game I got a call from Bev, a friend who is employed at St Johnstone who told me it was a St Johnstone fan who had taken ill in the Sports Bar and it looked serious. The guy in question was Sandy Grainger, a dyed in the wool Saintee who followed his team home and away. He had taken a heart attack and collapsed, bursting his head open in the process.

The Sports Bar staff have to be praised for their quick and decisive action but it was a couple of Killie fans who saved Sandy's life by carrying out the emergency procedures.

Take a bow guys and I'll give a special mention to Kevin Scoular who was one of those fans and who had attended our Heartstart class back in January. At the time of writing Sandy is doing fine and Kevin has been out to visit him in hospital I'm told there wasn't a dry eye in the ward when Sandy hugged one of the guys who had saved his life. My Saintees chum has also kept in touch and they are so grateful for the action of the Killie fans.

It's nice to hear a happy ending for a change and KFCSA will be holding a further Heartstart class on Nov.25th. Please, please, please e-mail me if you want to go and I will give you full details.........you could be Killie's next life saver.

SHOULD WE HAVE A FOOTBALL REFERENDUM? We deliberately haven’t commented too much on all the referendum stuff which wasn’t easy as it has been all consuming throughout the whole country. It may have been a “no” vote but the campaign has awoke thousands back into politics and there will be changes to our beautiful country…….hopefully for the better.

In my youth I was pretty big on politics and having been brought up in a house where my dad was heavily involved in unions, I have always been of the Labour persuasion. Over the years I fell out of love with politics as it is increasingly difficult to distinguish between the parties and their policies…….that was never the case 20 or 30 years ago. In all fairness I wouldn’t trust any of the parties with a bent penny and I cannot stand any of the leaders of all major parties…….god knows how I will vote at the next election.

Anyway back to football and how it can maybe learn from the whole referendum campaign. Much like politics the football world has suffered from widespread apathy and where many didn’t participate in political debate, many football fans have simply stopped attending games.

We write in almost every issue about how things could improve the game and how we can try and get crowds on the up again. The fans are out there but many have walked away due to how their clubs are run, prices too expensive and lack of competition.

Without getting into the nuts and bolts of the referendum it was generally a case of trying to sell the dream of independence to the population. How can we start a football referendum that will capture the imagination of the footballing public and ultimately get them back to games?

I don’t think it would be a “one question” football referendum as there are way too many issues that need addressed…….or would it? Perhaps if the question was along the lines of “Do you want Scottish clubs all operated in the same way as the German 50 plus 1 model?” then all the other issues could be addressed on the back of that.

The manifesto would include the likes of: • £10/£5 entry to all games • No individuals gaining financially from clubs • Fans/Community with controlling share of clubs • Criteria set for clubs being much more active in the community That is just off the top of my head but the important thing is it captures the interest of football fans everywhere. Devolution could play a part as well as stuff like admission process could be given to each individual club rather than the grey suits dictating guidelines for prices.

It would be fantastic to think we could all pull together for the good of our national game. All too often everyone simply wants to look after themselves and the game as a whole suffers. Please send me your articles on this, we may be onto something!!

KILLIE BITS + PIECES You will be well aware that the club have received loads of criticism over the years (and rightly so) about their lack of marketing and PR. The brand is simply not promoted nearly as much as it should be so it’s good to see that we have finally taken on a full time body…….here’s what the official site had to say:

The Board of Directors is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicola Sturgeon as Head of Marketing, Commercial and Communications.

Nicola joins the club from Scottish Rugby where, as marketing manager for Glasgow Warriors, she successfully developed the club’s marketing and communications strategies, growing season ticket memberships by 70% over the last three seasons.

Nicola also led the Warriors’ community engagement plan which saw the club build closer links with their supporters and with the west of Scotland community.

At this stage we would normally indulge in some infantile gags about the Deputy First Minister taking on a much bigger task than the fight for independence but we are bigger than that.

Lets hope the likes of Tommy A and Anne C get the support they deserve and good luck to Nicola in her new role.

The managerial merry go round is off and running with ex Killie players much to the fore. With that horrible waste of oxygen Derek Adams out the door at Dingwall none other than 1997 hero Jimmy McIntyre has filled the managers office. The big man has a job on his hands as they are still pointless as I write this but there is a long time to turn it round. McIntyre’s departure from Queen of the South sees James Fowler in temporary charge at Dumfries and as I write this they have just beaten Hibs. I’m sure Fow will fancy the gig and the mole tells me former Killie fave Dylan Kerr also fancies the gig at Dumfries.

DK has just won the Vietnamese Cup with Hai Phong and he seems to be as popular over there as he is in Killie. He is back in the UK for a month but sadly he won’t be at our big fans night on Nov. 1st unless he gets a job here. Good luck to both Fow and dylan, maybe they will be the QOS dream team together before taking over at Killie in a few years time!!!

Many of you may have attended the Hall of Fame night at the hotel and it was great to see some old faces who have done so much for Killie over the years. Obviously there will be other events throughout the season to commemmorate the 50th anniversary and you can expect the biggest event to be a dinner on or around the 24th April……we will publish full details as soon as we know them.

I like paying a visit to the scum forums once in a while to read their deluded mince. They are OTT with optimism just now as they are top of the table…….but it wont last. Interestingly there is a rumour that Hugh Clarke (Restoraroof) is trying to take them over. He has sponsored stuff at killie and was rumoured to be interested in taking over Killie a year or two back.

APRIL 24TH 1965 I don’t care what anyone says, I love the social media these days as it is a great source of information…….especially Killie information. One of my FB friends (her boy plays with Killie) showed us a poem that she had found. It is a poem written by a lad who was 12 at the time and he wrote about our famous win at Tynecastle: KILMARNOCK F.C. KILMARNOCK WON THE LEAGUE THIS YEAR, THEY DESERVE IT AS THEY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SO NEAR THEY BEAT HEARTS IN THE LAST GAME OF THE LEAGUE AND AT THE END WEE TOMMY MCLEAN COLLAPSED WITH FATIGUE AT THE END KILLIE WENT MAD AND THE POOR HEARTS PLAYERS LOOKED VERY SAD BUT AT THE END EVERYONE HAD TO SAY KILLIE WERE THE BETTER TEAM ON THAT DAY ALTHOUGH THE HEARTS TEAM CAME SO NEAR IT WILL BE REMEMBERED AS KILLIE’S BEST WIN OF THE YEAR BRIAN IRVING 12 YEARS Great stuff and if Brian is still around I’m sure he will delighted to know his poetry is still alive all these years later.

Coincidentally it was fantastic to see Tommy McLean at the Hall of Fame Dinner and I think he was once again a little fatigued!!!

WHEN POLITICS AND FOOTBALL CLASH The Scotland independence referendum centered mainly on political and social issues, but as is often the case, the implications run far below the surface. One such area is the beautiful game itself.

While many follow football in an attempt to forget about the problems of the world, the current climate in Scotland makes it impossible to ignore the reality of the impending referendum – from aggressive chants to verbal attacks on Scottish players, Scotland’s football takes first stage on the referendum.

Surface tensions Try as you may, there’s no way to avoid the political discussion. Look no further than the kickoff to England’s Euro 2016 qualification campaign in Switzerland, which saw plenty of chants directed at the political climate in Scotland, while the crowd aggressively chanted, “F— off Scotland, we’re all voting ‘yes’.”. Even in a game which didn’t involve Scotland and wasn’t played in the United Kingdom, the tension was palpable.

Of course, there’s plenty of reason for supporters of the Three Lions to have Scotland on their minds. Next month will see a renewal of the rivalry between the football teams of England and Scotland, with this year’s edition to be played at Celtic Park. The fixture is expected to bring rivals head to head both in the field, as well as off as sports betting sites are preparing for the influx of fans ready to put money on their team’s victory.

Although the vote will be old news by that point, the fallout from the referendum — and how the English and Scottish people feel about each other — will be the real story coming out of that friendly.

The odds are against any sort of violent incidents happening, but it will be interesting to see if the match takes on a greater meaning.

Greater implications You don’t need to look very far to see where football and reality might intertwine. Look no further than John Prescott, former Deputy Prime Minister of the UK, a staunch advocate of the “no” side of the vote. Prescott suggested that should Scotland stay part of the United Kingdom, the English and Scottish football sides should merge, causing an uproar by football fans both in England and Scotland.

The theory, Prescott says, is that a combined superpower of England and Scotland “could at last beat the Germans”.Was Prescott truly joking?

Possibly, maybe even probably. But his comments speak to the uncertainty that exists surrounding the referendum and how it intertwines with football.

Who knows what the future holds? It’s highly unlikely that the two sides would combine their forces on the pitch, but stranger things have happened.

Furthermore, Prescott’s statement might have done more harm than good to the “no” stance. While any football fan wants to support a stronger side, nobody wants to see their country’s team taken away.

Besides, there’s plenty at stake even if the referendum does pass. The Telegraph reports that Scotland’s bid to host a portion of Euro 2020 could potentially be in jeopardy upon Scottish independence, with UEFA stating that the bid would have to be re-assessed if independence is approved, a blow that would damage Scottish football. Scotland believes that its infrastructure is sound, but ultimately it’s up to the governing body of European football to determine if Scotland can host the games on its own.

Choosing sides Although sports are supposed to be separate from political and societal issues, people often look to their sports heroes for leadership in uncomfortable situations. The Scotland referendum is no different. As footballers take sides, they risk both further popularity and alienation as passionate supporters of either side go on the attack.

A group of 16 legendary former Scottish footballers have come out in joint opposition of the referendum, positioning themselves as leading voices in the “no” movement.

However, this also comes at a cost, alienating football fans who are in support of independence. Opposing fans have taken to social media to express their anger to the statements, which range from ridiculing the players to direct insults and threats.

Of course, there are some players on the side of independence as well.

Former Scotland international Michael Stewart is the most notable player who has publicly taken the side of the “yes” vote, and surely there are others who have not been quite as vocal. Perhaps other footballers will make their stances known as the referendum approaches.

Though there is plenty of unrest regarding the referendum and the sides people have chosen, there is hope that football can eventually be the force that unites both sides. We’ve seen countless examples of sport serving as conduit for peace and normalcy.

Perhaps the England-Scotland friendly in November will provide such a showcase. In any event, the battle that engulfs Scotland has trickled down to the pitch, providing a fascinating glimpse into the movement for independence.

Hippo says – As you may have guessed this article was written prior to the referendum result being known but it does highlight many points that lead me to the conclusion that football will never be the same again……..I reckon that may have been the case regardless of the result.

Let us not kid ourselves, the rivalry between Scotland and England has always been fierce but there is no doubt that the referendum has awoken strong feelings on both sides of the argument. As far as our friends down south are concerned we were trying to bump them so I disagree with the article about the possibility of trouble at the game next month. The police will be busier than Neil Lennon’s dentist and it will be interesting to see if the action on the park is livelier than usual due to the high feelings in the stands.

Even though the referendum result was a “no” and in effect nothing has changed, I still expect there to be some noises around having a British team rather than four separate outfits. There is simply no way of guessing how that will pan out as FIFA are more corrupt than a Govan boardroom. The ultimate decision will not come down to what is fair but who gifts them the most expensive watches (allegedly)!!

SPFL 13/9/14 KILLIE 2 V 1 BUDDIES KILLIE – SAMSON, BARBOUR, CHANTLER, PASCALI, CONNOLLY, CLINGAN, HAMILL, MCKENZIE (EREMENKO 66), OBADEYI (JOHNSTON 90), NGOO (MUIRHEAD 56), MAGENNIS SUBS NOT USED – MACKAY, MILLER, ASHCROFT + SLATER BOOKED – CONNOLLY, CLINGAN + HAMILL GOALS – MUIRHEAD 63 + CONNOLLY 82 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ST MIRREN – KELLO, MCAUSLAND, PLUMMER, NAISMITH, TESSELAR, MCGINN (WYLDE 76), OSBOURNE, GOODWIN (CALDWELL 84), MCLEAN, DRURY, MARWOOD SUBS NOT USED – RIDGERS, KELLY, REILLY, BALL + TEALE BOOKED – PLUMMER, GOODWIN + MARWOOD GOALS – DRURY 71 REF – A MUIR

CROWD - 4417

DICK OF THE DAY – JIM GOODWIN

This was probably the first game of the season where the opposing manager hadn’t used our pitch as an excuse before a ball was kicked. Well played to Tommy Craig for that and having watched his team’s performance he is going to need all the luck

he can get.

I was always considering former scum player for the award once again. He didn’t get on the pitch but I’m told he has never scored a goal in the SPL…..much like his former team.

However I will simply go route one and give the award to someone who epitomizes everything that is wrong with Scottish football….Jim Goodwin. It’s no wonder skillful players don’t last long in this country when you have butchers like Goodwin simply going in to damage them. The sooner he pisses off to the Paisley Retirement Home for Hammer Throwers the better. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Not the best game of the season by any means but a great three points and it is a game we wouldn’t have won last season. It was fantastic to see local Killie fan Muirhead come off the bench to change the game and win the points. Special mention as well to Mark Connolly who looks like a good solid defender with a great attitude.

SPL 20/9/14 ACCIES 0 V 0 KILLIE HAMILTON – MCGOVERN, GORDON, HENDRIE, DEVLIN, GILLESIE, IMRIE (LONGRIDGE 63), CRAWFORD, REDMOND, NEIL (LYON 59), ANDREU, SCOTLAND (BROPHY 72) SUBS NOT USED – MCGRATH, WATSON, DOCHERTY + HILL BOOKED – GORDON, NEIL + LYON GOALS – NADA >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> KILLIE – SAMSON, BARBOUR, CHANTLER, PASCALI, CONNELLY, HAMILL, MCKENZIE, CLINGAN, OBADEYI (JOHNSTON 69), MUIRHEAD (EREMENKO 69), MAGENNIS (MILLER 83) SUBS NOT USED – MACKAY, NGOO, ASHCROFT + SLATER BOOKED – PASCALI, MCKENZIE + MAGENNIS GOALS – SFA REF – K CLANCY

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DICK OF THE DAY – JAMIE HAMILL/REF A few of the boozehound gals on the bus wanted the award given to Dougie Imrie who had been posting some dodgy pics on t’internet of him in his “blue breeks” but I refuse to be drawn into such

sleazy stuff.

We could also have picked up on the fact that Hamilton were top of league and attracting a crowd of 2604, pathetic whatever way you look at it. However we gave a joint award to Jamie, who has been an important player since his return and the ref. JH has been booked in the last four games and I was looking forward to his run of consistency being continued. Sadly he didn’t really nail someone and the ref wasn’t for waving his card. Never mind I’m sure normal service will be resumed V Thistle

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Killie travelled to table topping Accies having never won a competitive game at the new ground, can anyone verify this? It was a tight game of few chances but the game was there for winning in the 2nd half. A point was perfectly acceptable but my early season fear about lack of a goalscorer was highlighted today.

SPFL 23/9/14 KILLIE 2 V 1 SAINTEES KILLIE – SAMSON, BARBOUR, CHANTLER (WESTLAKE 51), PASCALI, CONNOLLY, CLINGAN (NGOO 63), HAMILL, EREMENKO, OBADEYI, JOHNSTON (MILLER 67), MAGENNIS SUBS NOT USED – MACKAY, MUIRHEAD, ASHCROFT + SLATER BOOKED – PASCALI SENT OFF - EREMENKO GOALS – NADA >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ST JOHNSTONE – MANNUS, MACKAY, MILLER, EASTON, ANDERSON, MILLAR, CROFT (CADDIS 86), O’HALLORAN, DAVIDSON, LAPPIN (WOTHERSPOON 76), GRAHAM SUBS NOT USED – BANKS, KERR, WRIGHT, MCDONALD + MORGAN BOOKED – EASTON, ANDERSON, O’HALLORAN + DAVIDSON GOALS – GRAHAM 54 REF – S MCLEAN

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DICK OF THE DAY – STEVEN MCLEAN I did consider giving the gong to Eremenko for his stupidity however it pales into insignificance when you compare it to this wee rat.

I’m sure you all already know that he is the son of Killie star Stuart McLean who gave tremendous service to Killie and was part of a legendary defence….McCulloch, Mclean, Robertson, Clarke, McDicken.

It seems that stuart’s son is trying to prove he doesn’t have a Killie bias by giving us f***all. Eremeko’s sending off was soft but justifiable however the disallowed goal just looked like he was blowing whatever happened. A disgrace to the family name…….look out for him if he officiates at a Killie game again.

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Not the best game I’ve ever seen but we were the better teams in the first half although our best attempts were from outside the box. I was fairly confident at the interval but we were hopeless in the opening stages of the second half and paid the price. The red card pretty much killed us although we scored what looked like a perfectly good goal…..pity we had a dick of a ref.

SPFL 27/9/14 KILLIE 3 V 0 JAGS KILLIE – SAMSON, BARBOUR, WESTLAKE, PASCALI, CONNOLLY, CLINGAN, HAMILL, EREMENKO (SLATER 89), OBADEYI (NGOO 83), JOHNSTON, MAGENNIS (MUIRHEAD 83) SUBS NOT USED – BRENNAN, O’HARA, ASHCROFT + MILLER BOOKED – NONE GOALS – OBADEYI 25 + 57 PASCALI 51 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> PARTICK TH. – FOX, CARROLL, MCMILLAN, SEABORNE (MUIRHEAD 37), BALATONI, BANNIGAN, OSMAN, HIGGINBOTHAM (ELLIOTT HT), LAWLESS (ECCLESTON 58), STEVENSON, DOOLAN SUBS NOT USED – GALLACHER, CRAIGEN, O’DONNELL + WILSON BOOKED – CARROLL, MUIRHEAD + DOOLAN GOALS – SFA REF – A DALLAS

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DICK OF THE DAY – MARK CONNOLLY There is always a bit of rivalry against the jags which normally means there are plenty of DOTD candidates. The easy option would be to give it to the fat a*r worshipper who looks like he has trebled his burger intake over the summer. He is not a bad player but if reports from the summer were accurate that we were after him, I think we dodged a fat bullet.

The ref once again was hopeless but it seems to me there are no stand out officials in the Scottish game just now, we could give them the award every week. The gong actually goes to the best Killie signing of the summer Mark Connolly. He has been consistent every week and was outstanding today.

However he must learn the first rule of football…….dont try heading a ball on the ground on a plastic pitch……..schoolboy error!! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

It is generally a hard fought and tight tussle with this lot but today was nothing like that. Killie won comfortably and the visitors posed no threat to Samsom at all.

There were many outstanding Killie performers but I’d give a special mention to Eremenko and Connolly. It’s good to see us grab a few goals but next Friday will be a whole lot tougher.

DIVINE INTERVENTION As I write this article I’m a very worried man. I constantly look over my shoulder waiting on being struck down for my recent behavior whilst standing in my usual spot selling the fanzine. It’s a nice wee spot and I love the chat with fellow Killie fans however for the last three home games my space has been invaded.

All you regulars will know that apart from the fanzine and the halt time draw folk there is now a third pre match resident……..a god fearing wee guy who assures us the end of the world is nigh…….see opposite page for a taste of things to come.

In truth, I’m not being totally truthful with you all here. Yes I am terrified but not for the reasons given……the truth is the wee guy has been there at the Ayr game, Motherwell game and St Mirren game and we have won all three!!We can chat all day about hoofball, Eremenko starting and two holding midfielders but it appears that some divine intervention is responsible for our upturn in fortunes this season.

My initial thought was MJ had employed the guy to stand there simply to annoy me and he did seem particularly angry when I asked if Armageddon was our new Argentinian midfielder. He also treats us to a song or two although when he starts singing “follow follow” he is quickly told where his microphone may end up.

Anyway can I ask that you are all a little patient with him since he seems to be in tow with the good lord……Willie Watters.

THE LEGENDS OF 1965

McIlroy scores the most important goal in our history and secures the league title for the only time. I wonder what the G4 stewards would make of that crowd???

This is a truly brilliant picture and we will try and feature some league winning stuff in every issue this season.