The Albion August 2012 by The Albion Magazine

the

Albi n

Stirling Albion F.C. Official Magazine

Issue #10

August 2012

£3.00

2012/2013 SEASON A NEW BEGINNING

MYLES HOGARTH FORMER ‘KEEPER TALKS TO THE ALBION

NEW SIGNING DAVID MCCLUNE DIVES INTO THE DEEP END

DIV. 3 STADIUM GUIDE|AT THE ACADEMY|HOME & AWAY PREVIEWS|PRE-SEASON ROUND-UP

Editors’ Notes H

ello and welcome back to Forthbank Stadium to watch Stirling Albion kick off their 12/13 season. There’s been a little change in the staff of The Albion over the summer, with the previous editors Iain Blackwood, Ross Dunn and Andrew Jenkin leaving the job following their graduation from the University of Stirling. That means that David Chalmers and I, Stuart Kenny, are stepping up to take over as the editors of your club’s official magazine. Don’t worry though; the magazine is in safe hands. It’s been a tough couple of seasons for the Binos, but now is the perfect time for the club to turn a corner as they prepare for the 12/13 Division 3 season. There are plenty of old and new faces around Forthbank, with experienced players re-signing for the upcoming season, several under 19 players making the move up to the first squad and some new additions have been brought in to compliment Greig McDonald’s line up. With an updated squad and a new division comes new improvised expectations from both support and players alike, so get behind your club as they take the first step on what will hopefully be a season filled with celebration, smiles and all round success. In this month’s edition of The Albion you will find interviews with former Stirling Albion keeper Myles Hogarth, new signing David McClune, and a quick quiz with Daly McSorley. Elsewhere we preview our opposition’s stadiums and the teams we play this month.

f I told you the making of this first edition was easy, I’d be lying. Last season was ofcourse the first year of this magazine and I’m happy to be co-editor as it reaches it’s first birthday, and while the previous design was a good place to start, Stuart and I both felt we needed to make some changes regarding the layout and content of The Albion. The time invested by myself has been monumental in changing the image of the magazine and creating the graphics for the stadium guide, not to mention dealing with incoming adverts and increasing adversity over where we would place content. Despite everything, I can safely say it has been fully worth it, and I’ll sleep better knowing that I’ve given my best effort to give you Binos fans the best possible publication. This magazine is for you, you are the ones who come to Forthbank every week, who pay good money to support your team and who want to see people caring about your club; I hope Stuart and I’s efforts come across, and if you have any comments on the magazine or feel you can contribute in any way, get in touch with us via our e-mail adress on page 3. I can’t thank Stuart enough for his plan, and for his efforts also. The people at the club, Stuart Brown and David Ogilvie specifically, have been more than helpful and patient and I thank them for their co-operation in the production of this issue as we look forward to the new season and a good year for our team! I hope you enjoy the changes, and the content this month; we feel it’s value for money.

With regards,

Club Executive Team Chair and Operations Director Stuart Brown Finance Director Alan Christie Commercial Director John Hunter Members David McFarlane Dick King Jim Thomson Football Management Manager Greig McDonald Assistant Coaches Shaun Fagan Marc McCulloch Physiotherapist Pauline Robertson Goalkeeping Coach David Eccles Kit Man Gregor Dryden Club Doctor Michael Beyer Head of Youth Stewart Taylor (admin) Head of Youth (Coaching) Blair Cremin Under 19 Coaches Graeme Donald David Binnie

@StuartKenny

@DavidJChalmers

Stuart Kenny

Club Chaplain Duncan Strathdee 0778 991 2259

David Chalmers

CONTENTS Regular features: 03. Inside the Box 04. Albion news 05. from the dugout 16. the deep end 18. at the academy 38. 60 seconds with...

David McLune dives into the Deep End

20 Double-page pull-out of the team Annan Athletic Preview

Stuart Kenny talks about the 03/04 season with Myles Hogarth

the

Albi n

Editors: Stuart Kenny (Content) David Chalmers (Design) Contributors: Deena Mobbs David Ogilvie Graham Ruthven Graham Swann Stefan Schmidt Fraser Clarke Thanks: Daly McSorley David McClune Greig McDonald Stewart Taylor Myles Hogarth John Allison and The City Walls Alan Thompson and Annan Athletic Prudential Photography: Deena Mobbs (RedWeb) Design: Original template by Ross Dunn Printing: Mailboxes, Stirling Contact: magazine@stirlingalbionfc.co.uk Interact: T| 01786 450339 E| stirlingalbion@btconnect.com W| stirlingalbionfc.co.uk Club Honours C Division Champions 1946/47 B Division Champions 1952/53 Second Division Champions 1957/58, 1976/77, 1990/91, 1995/96, 2009/10 Division One Play-off Winners 2006/07 Stirlingshire Cup Winners 1953/54, 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 Social Media

/thealbionmagazine /stirlingalbionfc

@StirAlbionMag @stirling_albion

INSIDE THE BOX “Greig has worked tirelessly throughout the close and pre-season” Welcome back to Forthbank! It seems like yesterday that we said farewell to SFL2 on a sunny Saturday in Coatbridge but as someone once said “We are where we are” as we begin our campaign in the bottom tier of the Scottish Football League. No one can accuse the close season of being dull and I could fill this edition of “The Albion” with tales of the adventures that SAFC has been involved in over the past two months. However, in the interest of brevity, I will summarise by saying that we were never daunted by the SFA’s threat of an away trip to Armageddon and have concentrated instead on how we get to the far flung outposts that SFL3 offers us. As above, after a couple of seasons at the DoubleTree Dunblane Stadium, we’ve returned to Forthbank. Despite what some may have you believe I can categorically state that it was one year contract, with options to extend for two further one year periods and not an up front three year deal. In addition, the change of name has never sat comfortably with Stirling Council, the stadium owners and it was in the best interests of all parties that we reverted to the original and rightful name. For the record, we have more than replaced the loss of sponsorship money through a number of new and exciting partnerships and our robust and detailed commercial revenue forecasts for this season make for very happy reading. In closing this chapter in the history of SAFC, I would like to formally record my appreciation and thanks to everyone at the DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro for their support and continuing friendship. I would also like to record a huge thank you to our new and existing partners and sponsors, all of whom are formally recognised elsewhere in the Magazine. However, with no slight or disrespect to the others, I do wish to single out our relationship with the John Hartson Foundation. Having met with John and heard first hand what he has experienced and miraculously survived, I am delighted and proud that SAFC has teamed up with him to raise awareness of testicular cancer and the simple check that can save lives. With all that’s been happening behind the scenes, it’s been all too easy to forget that football actually plays a part in our business. Just as much as there’s been no rest for the Executive Board, Greig has worked tirelessly throughout the close and pre-season. He’s put together a squad that I believe to be an excellent mix of experience and youth. It would be wrong to single out individuals but the large number players that have come through our Youth Teams bears great testimony to the hard work put in by everyone involved with our Youth Development set up and on behalf of everyone at SAFC, I extend my appreciation and gratitude. Turning back to business, I would like to formally introduce the close season signing to the Executive Board. John Hunter, the owner of Hunters Executive Coaches, brings with him energy, enthusiasm, business acumen and above all an incredible passion to help SAFC to prosper and grow. He will lead on all things commercial and he’s already made many new friends and earned the respect of everyone associated with the Club. For those that were on the Highland Tour, you will also be aware that he has a wicked sense of humour! Welcome aboard, John! There’s so much more ground that I’d like to cover but most of it will need to wait for future editions. Just a couple of final points… Firstly to confirm that we have now formally commenced our “Pay As You Play” arrangement with our landlord, Stirling Council. In simple terms, Active Stirling have taken over responsibility for the Stadium and maintenance of the playing surface and we will be paying for the use of the facilities, as and when required as opposed to 365 days of the year. I cannot thank everyone at Active Stirling enough for their contribution to making this happen. Whilst it is first and foremost a business relationship, we are fully committed to working in partnership with them to maximise the benefits that can be derived by both parties. The first public display of this will be on 28 August when we host Scotland v Belgium at under 17 level. Secondly, my very best wishes to our new co-editors, Stirling University students, Stuart Kenny and David Chalmers. On behalf of everyone at the Club, I’d like to thank them (and all the contributors to “The Albion”) for their hard work in putting the Magazine together. We’ve got much to look forward to this season but for the time being I’m going to bask in the glory of having got to the final word of this article before mentioning Rangers.

ALBION NEWS Season Tickets Seasons are priced £150 for adults, £100 for seniors aged 65 and over and students, and just £30 for children under 17. They are valid for all league games, including any play-offs, and are the best way to guarantee a seat for the two matches against Rangers. Many thanks to everyone who has purchased a season ticket. Anyone still wanting to buy one should contact the club on 01786 450399 or email stirlingalbion@btconnect.com and we will make arrangements. New Signings A warm welcome to all of the players who arrived at Forthbank over the summer. Striker Bradley Coyne (19) joins us from Forfar. The son of former Celtic, Dundee and Motherwell forward Tommy, he has also had spells with St Mirren and East Stirling. David McClune (29) is an experienced defender who was with Brechin City last season and has also turned out for St Johnstone and Alloa. Kieran McAnespie (32) is a leftsided defender/midfielder who can count a number of clubs on his CV, including St Johnstone, Fulham, Hearts and Falkirk. We snapped him up after two seasons with Arbroath. Goalkeeper Mark Peat (30) became our fourth summer signing, joining from Beith Juniors. Mark has also played for Aberdeen, Arbroath, Berwick and East Stirling. Fellow goalkeeper David Crawford

signed a short-term deal to allow him to play in the League Cup tie at Arbroath as Mark and Sam Filler were unavailable. David can count Queen’s Park, Dumbarton and Alloa among his former clubs. McAnespie banned Summer signing Kieran McAnespie will miss our Division Three opener against Annan Athletic at Forthbank on August 11 due to a one-match ban carried over from last season. Rangers tickets Following on from discussions with Central Scotland Police and our Stewarding Company with regards to our October 6 home fixture against Rangers, the SAFC Executive Board has agreed on the following pricing structure: Adults £13 Senior citizen £10 Children U17 £7 Plastic fantastic? Stirling Albion were the first team in Scotland to play on an artificial pitch – the opening game was against Ayr United at Annfield in September 1987 and the last was against Clydebank in May 1992 – but if things continue as they are, we will be a rarity in playing on grass in the SFL! Our Third Division rivals Annan and Clyde have both installed plastic pitches over the summer while Montrose and East Stirling have had one for some time. At least technology has moved on

somewhat since the surface at Annfield, which had its critics! Penalty pain The penalty shoot-out defeat to Arbroath was our 11th spot-kick decider in all, not counting the Stirlingshire Cup. We have never faced penalties in the Scottish Cup but across the League and Challenge Cups we have come out on top seven times and lost on just four occasions, the most notable loss coming against Dundee United in the 1998/99 League Cup at Tannadice. Albion’s first ever shoot-out was against Dumbarton in the 1985/86 League Cup when we won 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Annfield. Welcome back Andy It is our pleasure to welcome former player Andy Paterson and his family to the Annan game as guests of SAFC. Andy was a hugely popular player during Kevin Drinkell’s highly successful time as manager in the mid-1990s. A right-back by trade, Andy was a free-kick specialist and scored some memorable goals, none more so than in the amazing 6-2 League Cup thumping of Kilmarnock 15 years ago this month. Loaned Out Andy Hunter and Richie Kirwan have joined Dunipace Juniors on loan but will continue to train with SAFC and can be called back at any point.

CHAPLAIN’S MESSAGE Hi Everyone,

I’ve recently taken over the role of Stirling Albion FC Chaplain, or ‘Rev’, from long term servant of the club, Dave Barrie. Dave was ‘Rev’ for 13 years, but moved to Pitlochry as Minister of the local Baptist Church, in 2011, and is now Chaplain to St Johnstone FC. Basically, I’m here for anyone involved in the club, whether staff, players or supporters. My role is to support you in any way I can. That includes: getting to know each other, chatting, taking weddings (if you don’t know a minister), supporting the teams (youth teams as well), if you have something going on in your life and you want a friendly face to talk to, then I’m here for you. I’ve always been an Albion fan, and used to go and watch them at Annfield, as a

boy. I even got to play on the Annfield turf for Stirling Battalion BB’s. I used to be a ‘Techy’ Teacher at Wallace High, and whilst there, had Stirling Albion favourite, David Flynn, in my 1st and 2nd Year football teams. I went on to become Headteacher of a school for special needs, in Edinburgh, before going full time as Pastor of Dunblane Christian Fellowship. My eldest son, Jason played with Stirling Albion Youth team and had a couple of games with the 1st team before signing with East Fife. It’s a privilege to be part of this great club and its tradition. We have a great, enthusiastic management team in Greig, Shaun and Marc, and I, for one, will be supporting them and the team, home and away. Come on the ‘Binos’! Duncan Strathdee (0778 991 2259)

FIXTURE LIST August Sat Aug 4 League Cup R1 - Arbroath (A) 1-1 (Arbroath win on penalties) Sat Aug 11 Annan Athletic H Wed Aug 15 Ramsdens Challenge Cup 2 Sat Aug 18 Elgin City A Sat Aug 25 Clyde H / S.F.A. Cup 1 Wed Aug 29 League Cup 2 September Sat Sep 1 Queen’s Park H Sun Sep 9 Ramsdens Challenge Cup 3 Sat Sep 15 East Stirlingshire A Sat Sep 22 Berwick Rangers A Wed Sep 26 League Cup 3 Sat Sep 29 S.F.A. Cup 2 October Sat Oct 6 Rangers H Sun Oct 14 Ramsdens Challenge Cup Semi-Final Sat Oct 20 Montrose H Sat Oct 27 Peterhead A Wed Oct 31 League Cup 4 November Sat Nov 3 S.F.A. Cup 3 Sat Nov 10 Annan Athletic A Sat Nov 17 Elgin City H Sat Nov 24 Queen’s Park A December Sat Dec 1 East Stirlingshire H / S.F.A. Cup 4 Sat Dec 8 Rangers A Sat Dec 15 Berwick Rangers H Wed Dec 26 Peterhead H Sat Dec 29 Montrose A January Wed Jan 2 East Stirlingshire A Sat Jan 5 Queen’s Park H Sat Jan 12 Clyde A Sat Jan 19 Annan Athletic H Sat Jan 26 Berwick Rangers A / League Cup Semi-Final February Sat Feb 2 Rangers H / S.F.A..Cup 5 Sat Feb 9 Montrose H Sat Feb 16 Peterhead A Sat Feb 23 Clyde H March Sat Mar 2 Elgin City A / S.F.A. Cup 6 Sat Mar 9 East Stirlingshire H Sun Mar 17 League Cup Final Sat Mar 23 Rangers A Sat Mar 30 Berwick Rangers H April Tue Apr 2 Queen’s Park A Sat Apr 6 Montrose A Sun Apr 7 Ramsdens Challenge Cup Final Sat Apr 13 Peterhead H / S.F.A. Cup Semi-Final Sat Apr 20 Annan Athletic A Sat Apr 27 Elgin City H May Sat May 4 Clyde A

VIEW FROM THE DUG-OUT GREIG MCDONALD “Last year we wanted to get the ball down on the floor and play it and we’ll continue with that philosophy this season. ”

elcome back to Forthbank for what I’m confident will be a much more successful season than the one we’ve all just endured. There’s no denying last season was a huge disappointment, but I’m looking forward to getting the team back on a pitch and making up for it. I feel pre-season’s gone really well. I couldn’t have asked for much more from the guys. Over the summer they’ve all done the programme we set them and after a further three weeks of fitness and endurance training they’re ready for the season ahead. Their willingness to be fit for the start of the new season has meant we’ve been able to concentrate on the football side of things, and we’ve been trying a few new ideas in training and during the bounce games we’ve played that hopefully will stand us in good stead over the next year. Last year we wanted to get the ball down on the floor and play it and we’ll continue with that philosophy this season. We’ve em-

phasized this to the players and have been helping through the young guys who have graduated into the squad, making sure that they get used to this style of play as quickly as possible. Our new signings, Bradley Coyne, Kieran McAnespie, David McClune and Mark Peat have all settled into the squad well. All four will add a bit of experience and professionalism to the team, but at the same time will bring their own qualities and pull their weight on the pitch. We haven’t set any targets for the upcoming season other than to go out and do our best every week. I really believe we’re capable of beating anybody in this division on our day and it’s just a question of implementing what we’ve been doing in training on game day. If we can do that we’ll have a good season. In terms of adding to the squad, I think we’re pretty much done to be honest. I’m very happy with the business we’ve done and I’m pleased with the attitude of the guys throughout pre-season, so not much has to change. One question was always go-

ing to be over who would play in goals after Callum Reidford left at the end of last season. I’ve said to both Mark Peat and Sam Filler, who had a fantastic end to the season, that they’ll be fighting for the number one jersey. I expect both of them to play a part at different points during the season, and I’ve got great confidence in their abilities. Of course, the Rangers saga has dominated the build-up to the new season for all Scottish clubs. It’s a bit of a novelty to have them in our league and it’s something that none of us expected back in May, but I’m pleased that our players will have the chance to go and play at a stadium like Ibrox. I’m glad that it’s now over, for Ally McCoist more than anyone, and we can now get on with the football. It had taken over Scottish football for a while, but we’ve just tried to get on with our business and that’s what we’ll continue to do, despite the extra exposure and attention. Here’s to a successful season!

MATCH REPORT by David Ogilvie

Late Stenhousemuir come-back denies Albion Reidford Ross Dickson Buist McMillan Hodge Kean Rodgers Gemmell Paton Ferguson Subs: Love Brash Kelbie

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi

2-2 Stenhousemuir

14th July, 2012 Referee: G. Hilland

Kelbie 82’ Gemmell (pen) 88’

wo late goals denied Albion victory in their first public pre-season friendly at Ochilview but there was plenty to encourage manager Greig McDonald against higher-ranked opponents. Gary Brass headed the Binos in front early in the second half and Scott Davidson doubled the advantage 11 minutes from time. Former Stirling striker Kevin Kelbie reduced the deficit and John Gemmell equalised with a penalty two minutes before the end. The Binos boss used 20 players over 90 minutes, with only Marc McCulloch and Davidson taking part in the full game. Graham Weir and Jamie McCunnie were unavailable. New signing David McClune and full-back Shaun Fagan also sat out but recent recruit Kieran McAnespie appeared as a substitute following his transfer from Arbroath. Former Aberdeen keeper Mark Peat again featured as a trialist while the other trialist was former Stenhousemuir midfielder Joe McCafferty.

The Warriors, who had seen manager Davie Irons resign due to work commitments, were led by Martyn Corrigan and Kevin McGoldrick.

Peat McGeachie Ashe McSorley McDonald Allison McCulloch Flood Coyne Davidson Ferry Subs: Cleland Thom McAnespie Macpherson Kirwan Clark Day Brass McCafferty

Stirling Albion Brass 50’ Davidson 79’

The hosts were the better team in the first half and carved out several good openings. Peat made a splendid save to deny Andy Rodgers and the former Dumbarton frontman came close on another couple of occasions before Bryan Hodge missed a sitter, blazing over from six yards. Albion’s best chance of the first half came shortly before the break but Reidford blocked Josh Flood’s effort. Stirling were much stronger in the second period and took the lead when Gary Thom sent over a perfect cross from the right and 20-year-old Brass thumped a header past Reidford from six yards. Looking much more solid at the back than before halftime, Albion scored again in 79 minutes when Gavin Macpherson’s precise pass allowed Davidson to run beyond the home defence and his low shot beat Reidford. Stenhousemuir hit back when Kelbie found space in the box to side-foot the ball into the corner for a tidy finish and the comeback was complete when Gemmell was flattened in the area by Jamie Clark and the summer signing from Albion Rovers stroked home the penalty.

MATCH REPORT by David Ogilvie

Albion smash four past Thistle on Highland tour

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi

Donaldson Fraser Tulloch Mochan Hendry Chisholm Hardie Swinton Babrowski Robertson MacDonald

Filler Kirwan Ashe McCulloch Thom Clark McSorley Flood Hunter Brass Macpherson

Subs: Wardrope Smith Reinsons Sutherland Ireland McRae McPhee Ridgers

Subs: Peat Allison Weir McGeachie

McCunnie Coyne Davidson

0-4 Strathspey Thistle

20th July, 2012 Referee: G. Fraser

Stirling Albion McSorley 20’, 60’ Thom 28’ Hendry (og) 62’

lbion left out some of their experienced players but racked up a comfortable victory over their Highland League opponents in a friendly at a picturesque Seafield Park, Grantown-on Spey. This was part one in a mini Highland tour – the club’s first such venture since 2003/04 when Allan Moore’s men played Buckie Thistle and Keith before going on to win promotion from Division Three. Strathspey Thistle were formed as recently as 1993 and joined the Highland League from the Junior ranks in 2009/10. Only perennial strugglers Fort William finished below them last season and Thistle shipped more than 100 goals as they suffered 29 defeats in 34 games. But there can be few friendlier clubs in the country and it seems a shame they do not yet meet the criteria for Scottish Cup entry.

Goalkeeper Sam Filler and forward Andy Hunter made their first appearances of pre-season on a lovely evening in the Highlands and the Binos largely con-

trolled the match, with full-backs Richie Kirwan and Danny Ashe almost playing like wingers at times. We took the lead when midfielder Daly McSorley smashed home a terrific shot from 30 yards after 20 minutes and defender Gary Thom powerfully headed in a Josh Flood corner eight minutes later. McSorley nodded the third from Hunter’s left-wing cross on the hour mark as home appeals for offside were waved away and the scoring was complete two minutes later when the unfortunate Scott Hendry turned a Hunter cross into his own net after good work by the youngster on the left. The hosts, who began their Highland League campaign at home to Wick on August 4, missed a couple of good chances to reduce the deficit in the closing stages but were unable to grab a consolation goal as the Binos secured the emphatic win most were expecting. The feeling was that Brora Rangers would provide a much sterner test on the Saturday…

MATCH REPORT by David Ogilvie

Binos fail to score in uninspiring performance Allan Lamb Golabek Hind M MacLean Gibb Gillespie Hart Kerr Mackay Campbell

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi

3-0 Brora Rangers

21st July, 2012 Referee: B. Baxter

Hart 24’ Campbell 63’ Baxter 68’

he second game of Albion’s Highland tour ended in disappointment as we slumped to defeat against Brora at Dudgeon Park in what was the first ever meeting between the clubs. Greig McDonald made nine changes to the team that started the 4-0 win over Strathspey Thistle on Friday night - only Danny Ashe and Marc McCulloch kept their places - but, after a bright opening, the Binos found themselves well beaten. Brora finished third from bottom of the Highland League last year and have never won the title – they were runners-up in 1980 - but backing from a local businessman has attracted players like experienced SPL duo Richie Hart and Stuart Golabek, who spent many years with Inverness CT and Ross County. Tipped to be among seven or eight possible contenders who could take the title this season; Brora looked good on this showing, although they were helped by Stirling giving the ball away on a regular basis.

Subs: Ross Cunningham Baxter Grant Smith Innes K MacLean Greig Duff

Peat McGeachie Ashe McCulloch Allison McDonald Day Weir Davidson Coyne McCunnie Subs: Clark Macpherson McSorley Brass Filler Flood Thom Kirwan Hunter

Stirling Albion

Albion started well enough and Scott Davidson had a strong penalty claim turned down before McDonald headed over from a corner when he might have scored. But it was Brora who took the lead in 24 minutes when the excellent Hart was given far too much space and he thumped a low 25-yarder beyond new signing Mark Peat. Only a bad miss soon after from Colin Campbell prevented further damage. The visitors were a bit better in the early part of the second half but Andy Macleod’s team doubled their lead in 63 minutes when Campbell headed in a deep Hart cross and substitute Liam Baxter wrapped things up from close range five minutes later after the ball had come back off the post. McDonald opted not to use his subs – the only change an enforced one in the first half when Gary Thom replaced Ross McGeachie – but Graham Weir almost pulled one back for Stirling but his deflected effort struck the woodwork.

MATCH REPORT by David Chalmers

Young Falkirk side see off Stirling in Ramsdens Cup

McGovern Duffie Kingsley Dods Flynn Fulton Sibbald Murdoch Taylor Haworth Leahy Subs: Smith Dick Fulton White Bowman

Filler Thom Ashe McCunnie Allison McDonald McSorley Macpherson Weir Coyne Ferry Subs: Peat

McCulloch Brass Clark Davidson

Pictures by Falkirk FC

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi

3-0 Falkirk FC Duffie 34’ Taylor 51’ 56’

28th July, 2012 Referee: J. McKendrick Att: 1,532

he Albion played their first competitive fixture of this season away to Ramsdens Cup holders and local rivals Falkirk in which was arguably the toughest draw the team could possibly get. Manager Greig McDonald opted to start himself in a 4-5-1 formation, looking to frustrate the home side with an over-loaded midfield and go for the upset. Kieran Duffie opened the scoring just after the half-hour mark for Falkirk following good play from Stirling before new signing Lyle Taylor bagged a fiveminute brace within ten minutes of the start of the second half to seal the victory and his side’s place in the next round.

The game started off a bit scrappy before Stirling started to take control; McDonald’s decision to go with five in midfield was stifling the channels for Falkirk and Bradley Coyne tested Michael McGovern with a volley early on. Mark Ferry almost scored from a corner but a headed deflection onto the post denied the midfielder Falkirk’s young midfielder Craig Sibbald tried a few

Stirling Albion

efforts from distance but to no avail before right-back Duffie made it 1-0 after pressing high up the pitch, latching onto the ball just inside the box and rifling an effort past goalkeeper Sam Filler. Stirling played some nice football before half-time with Gary Thom getting forward and linking up well with captain Brian Allison, Daly McSorley and Gavin MacPherson before the latter’s poor pass broke down the move. Andy Haworth was in good form on the wings for Falkirk, with Stirling stretched chasing the equaliser and dribbled his way past a number of the defence before cutting in and attempted a pass that was cleared for a corner. The second half had not long started before Gary Thom’s slip on the wet Falkirk Stadium surface allowed Lyle Taylor to take the ball and coolly slot it inside Filler’s near post. The striker got his second and Falkirk’s third after his volley from a corner was deflected in, all but ending any hopes of an Albion comeback and that goal and result signalled the end of this year’s Ramsdens Cup run for the team.

MATCH REPORT by David Ogilvie

Penalty shoot-out ends in heart-break for Albion Hill Baxter Brennan Banjo Robertson Keddie Sibanda Currie Dorris Gribben Sheerin

Crawford Ashe McCulloch Allison McCunnie MacPherson McAnespie Weir Davidson Coyne Ferry

Subs: Bullock Prince-Wright Travis Rennie Holmes

Subs: Cleland Flood McGeachie McSorley Brass

Pictures by Deena Mobbs

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi

1-1 Arbroath Currie 83’

4th August, 2012 Referee: P. Robertson Att: 579

Stirling Albion Ferry pen 42’

(Arbroath win 3-2 on penalties after extra time)

lbion suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat on penalties after coming close to causing an upset at Gayfield in the first round of the Communities League Cup at Gayfield. Greig McDonald’s men produced a fine performance and missed chances to win the tie in extra time but Graham Weir, Mark Ferry and Danny Ashe all saw their spot-kicks saved by Darren Hill in the shoot-out. Scott Davidson and Daly McSorley confidently converted and David Crawford denied Arbroath playerboss Paul Sheerin but Steven Doris, Derek Holmes and Paul Currie were all on target for the Red Lichties as we fell at the first hurdle in this competition for the fifth year in a row. Binos boss McDonald gave debuts to short-term signing David Crawford and Kieran McAnespie, who impressed against his former club before going off late on with a head knock. Ashe was at right back, with Jamie Clark alongside Brian Allison in the centre of defence. Gavin MacPherson, Ferry and Jamie McCunnie were the midfield three, with Graham Weir operating behind a front pairing of Davidson and Bradley Coyne. Stirling started well and Ferry saw a shot tipped on to the post but Arbroath came back and Darren Gribben fired inches wide then curled a terrific effort against the post from the edge of the box.

We took the lead in 42 minutes when McAnespie drove into the box and was caught by former Albion defender Scott Robertson. Ferry made a fine job of the penalty. The Red Lichties enjoyed plenty of the ball in the second half but Stirling were defending well, although it took a superb Crawford save to keep out a Holmes header. Weir was denied at the other end but with eight minutes left Arbroath equalised when ex-Berwick midfielder Currie latched on to a deep cross from the left and smashed an angled drive into the corner of the net. Doris spurned a glorious opportunity for the hosts with virtually the last kick of the 90 minutes when he seized on a defensive error but the former St Johnstone striker knocked his effort wide. Arbroath played the bulk of extra time with 10 men as Daniel Rennie had to go off following a clash with McAnespie, although he did reappear for the last couple of minutes. The Binos should have won it in the extra period but Hill saved from Gary Brass, Weir fired just over and Ferry had an effort blocked as Arbroath held on for penalties. Weir was first to take but Hill stopped it with his legs and that paved the way for a home victory in the shoot-out.

AUGUST MEMORIES by David Ogilvie

he opening weeks of the season are usually full of hope and sometimes more. Here are 10 August matches from the past 35 years that were all memorable for one reason or another – some are simply unforgettable!

August 27, 1977 – Division One Dundee 0-1 Stirling Albion A Stirling success against Dundee is so rare as to be almost extinct. We have managed none since 1978 and this was a terrific result for Alex Smith’s side, who had been promoted the previous season. Jim Clark was the man on target. We went on to finish fifth in Division One while Dundee missed out on going up by a single point. August 27, 1980 – League Cup R2 Stirling Albion 1-0 Celtic A goal from Lloyd Irvine stunned the visitors as the Binos triumphed in the first leg of this League Cup tie watched by 5,522 at Annfield. Stirling took the lead through Matt McPhee in the return match but Celtic hit back to force extra time and eventually ran out 6-1 winners at Parkhead. August 8, 1981 – League Cup section Falkirk 4-1 Stirling Albion A terrible result in a season when Albion would go on to finish mid-table in Division Two and play in front of a record low crowd of 216 but this was still a momentous day – it was our first goal since January! Robert Torrance marked his debut by ending our record-breaking 14-game drought. August 10, 1988 – League Cup R1 Alloa 2-4 Stirling Albion Jim Fleeting was only in charge for a few short months before being lured to Kilmarnock but he had a huge impact on the club. Now in a senior position at the Scottish FA, Fleeting put together an attacking side and his first game in charge was a thriller. Charlie Gibson, John Brogan, Davie Thompson and Brian Kemp had us 4-0 up before the Wasps threatened a comeback. August 10, 1991 – Division One Kilmarnock 0-0 Stirling Albion Albion were back in the second tier of Scottish football after a 10-year absence and weren’t given much chance against a Kilmarnock side who were tipped to do well. John Brogan’s team produced a disciplined showing to earn a terrific point at Rugby Park.

August 30, 1995 – League Cup R3 Rangers 3-2 Stirling Albion The Herald carried a picture the following day of Walter Smith looking to the heavens as a side including 10 internationalists clung on grimly in the closing stages. Albion had played well throughout and scarcely deserved to be 3-0 down to goals from Mark Hateley, Ally McCoist and Stuart McCall. Then the comeback. Craig Taggart and Steve McCormick scored in front of the delirious away support and Joe McLeod missed a glorious chance to force extra time. There was consolation, though, in the shape of an amazing 27-game unbeaten run as Kevin Drinkell’s team stormed to the Second Division title playing a thrilling brand of football.

August 20, 1997 – League Cup R3 Kilmarnock 6-2 Stirling Albion Many Albion fans would rate this their best game ever – and with good reason. Drinkell’s team had made a good start to the season but Killie were the Scottish Cup holders and few expected them to slip up. Instead, Stirling ran over the top of them, two goals late in the first half from Andy Paterson and John Gibson setting the scene for a shock. Tommy Tait grabbed our third and sub Steve McCormick bagged a brace before Craig Taggart smashed home the sixth. Unfortunately, Albion’s form dipped after this victory. We lost to Aberdeen in the quarter-finals and were relegated to Division Two at the end of the season. August 8, 1998 – League Cup R2 Dundee United 2-2 Stirling Albion This was John Philliben’s third match in charge of Stirling and he almost masterminded a major cup shock at Tannadice. Albion played superbly and Alex Bone scored both our goals but we lost our nerve in the shoot-out as United progressed 3-0 on spot-kicks. The hangover lasted for some time – we lost 7-0 to Alloa later in the month. August 7, 2004 – Division Two Stirling Albion 5-2 Arbroath We haven’t had too many opening-day wins to celebrate in recent years but this one was fairly emphatic. David O’Brien, Paul Hay, Stewart Devine (2) and Scott McLean were on target. Allan Moore’s team won their first five league games but the Red Lichties got their revenge three times over in 2004/05 as we failed to build on a good start. August 13, 2011 – Division Two Dumbarton 1-5 Stirling Albion There wasn’t too much to shout about last season but a stunning win away to The Sons had Jocky Scott’s side top of Division Two with six points from six. Darren Smith, Alan Cook, Josh Flood, John Crawley and Shaun Dillon were all on target but it was Dumbarton who went on to win promotion via the play-offs as we exited Division Two via the relegation trapdoor.

OPENING DAY FIXTURES SINCE 1990 11/12 Stirling Albion 1-0 East Fife 10/11 Morton 0-0 Stirling Albion 09/10 Stirling Albion 0-0 Stenhousemuir 08/09 Brechin City 2-1 Stirling Albion 07/08 Stirling Albion 1-1 Partick Thistle 06/07 Stirling Albion 1-3 Ayr United 05/06 Partick Thistle 0-0 Stirling Albion 04/05 Stirling Albion 5-2 Arbroath 03/04 Stirling Albion 0-0 Cowdenbeath 02/03 Stirling Albion 0-1 Albion Rovers 01/02 Stirling Albion 2-1 Peterhead 00/01 Stirling Albion 2-2 Clydebank 99/00 Stirling Albion 1-1 Stranraer 98/99 Livingston 1-1 Stirling Albion 97/98 Stirling Albion 1-1 Raith Rovers 96/97 Stirling Albion 0-1 Airdrie United 95/96 Stirling Albion 3-0 Montrose 94/95 Stirling Albion 0-1 East Fife 93/94 Stirling Albion 2-0 Dumbarton 92/93 Dumbarton 4-3 Stirling Albion 91/92 Kilmarnock 0-0 Stirling Albion 90/91 Cowdenbeath 0-2 Stirling Albion

David O’Brien scoring in the impressive 5-2 win over Arbroath at home in August 2004

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. johnh a r tso nfo unda ti o n.c o m

STIRLING ALBION f.c. HAVE A

PHENOMENAL SEASON PROUD SPONSORS OF THE SCOTTISH FOOTBALL LEAGUE

PLAYER QUICK QUIZ with Daly McSorley Age Turned 20 in March Position Central midfielder Where do you live? The one and only Hamilton! Where did you start your career? At a local boys club called Hamilton Palace. From there to Dunfermline to Dumbarton and then signed my first pro contract at Stirling Albion. What’s the best goal you have scored? The one in this year’s pre-season friendly against Strathspey Thistle would take some beating if I’m honest. Best ground you’ve played at? Ibrox. However, I participated in a half-time 10-second challenge when at Dunfermline when I was 14 at Hampden against Celtic. Was a full house so was pretty special. Most difficult opponent? Stephen Stirling. Frightening! Biggest influence on your career? Would be my dad. He’s there to watch me wherever I play and gives me his opinions on how I performed, good or bad. What do you do for a job outside of football? Apprentice security engineer. Any kind of alarms - intruder, fire, CCTV or safety stuff such as fire extinguishers... give me a shout! Worst-dressed player at the club? Haha. There’s a few. Andrew Hunter with his Helsinki top, Danny Ashe gets a bit of stick but for me, for his bunnet alone, it has to be new boy Kieran McAnespie! Who’s the joker in the dressing room? Good few again. Marco seems to be the joker though. Funny guy. Thought he had retired though.. Do you have a pre-match ritual? Don’t really have one. I hate being too organised. Tend to put everything in my bag last minute before I leave. Then say a wee prayer after the warm-up.

What’s the best thing about being a footballer? Matchdays, when for that 90 minutes supporters are fully behind you and that feeling is different class. What was the last football match you went to see? Norwich City v Celtic - Adam Drury’s Testimonial at Carrow Road in May. Who are your best pals in football? Alan Cook is one I’ve known him since my days at Dumbarton and he’s a good lad, along with Tony Wallace who’s just signed with Morton. Callum Reidford is another one who has become a friend since my time at Stirling. Who would be your dream date? Normally I’d say Cheryl Cole but going to be controversial and say Michelle Keegan! What was the last film you went to see? Went to see Angel’s Share at the pictures with my girlfriend. Was really funny. Who is your favourite musician? Rod Stewart Favourite food? Chinese Favourite TV programme? Geordie Shore What would be your perfect weekend? Chilling out at the sea, sunny day, getting a tan and in good company. If you could have three people over for dinner, who would they be? I can’t cook to save myself so it would be a takeaway unless someone was up for volunteering to cook. Would have the Pope round for a bite along with Rod Stewart and big bad John Hartson.

THE DEEP END

“

WE’VE GOT A VERY YOUNG TEAM HERE AND PART OF MY JOB WILL BE TO PROVIDE A GUIDE TO THEM, ON AND OFF THE PITCH. THEY’LL BE PUSHING ME FOR A PLACE ON THE PITCH, SO I HAVE TO PROVE MY WORTH AND THAT SORT OF COMPETITION IS GOOD FOR EVERYONE.

GRAHAM RUTHVEN CATCHES UP WITH

DAVID MCCLUNE 16

GR: You have spent time on the training pitch with the team now. How good a side has Greig McDonald put together? DM: We seem to have a good balance in the side, with experience and youth playing together. I already knew a few of the experienced boys here but I wasn’t aware that there was such a good youth set-up at the club. Some of the young boys have really impressed me in pre-season and I don’t know what the plan is, if those guys will be loaned out to get experience or if they’ll be kept, but my opinion is that there are some who could play a big part in the season.

“

You’re quite a versatile player. What’s your preferred position? Right-back is really where I feel I play best. I can play at central midfield and last season (at Brechin) Jim Weir played me a few games at left-back because we were struggling with injuries but rightback is where I’ve played most of my career and as far as I know that’s where I’ll be playing for the Albion. What will you bring to the team? I’ll bring a bit of experience to the team. We’ve got a very young team here and part of my job will be

Pictures by Rajmund Bakonyi to provide a guide to them, on and off the pitch. They’ll be pushing me for a place on the pitch, so I have to prove my worth and that sort of competition is good for everyone. How have the friendly games gone? They’ve gone well. The Airdrie bounce game we played went particularly well and thoroughly deserved our win. Against Stenhousemuir, they were the better side in the first half. If I’m totally honest I thought we looked slightly tired, but in the second half we upped our game and scored two goals. It was disappointing to be pegged back to 2-2 so late in the game but a draw was probably a fair result. But it’s not really about results at this stage, it’s about getting ready for the season and those two games have definitely helped us get up to speed. Have you been set any personal or team targets for the season ahead? Not yet. We’ve not spoken about that, but I think

winning the league is out the window with Rangers in the league now. I think the whole league will be looking at the three play-off spots and thinking that’s what they’re aiming for, so I imagine that’s what we’ll be trying to do. From a personal perspective I just want to play as many games as possible. Last season I was in and out the team at Brechin through one reason or another. I think Greig (McDonald) had thought I’d been injured but a lot of the time I just couldn’t get a spot in the team. You spent five seasons at Alloa. Have you had any old friends at Recreation Park give you stick for joining the Albion? When I left Alloa the entire playing staff had left, so I don’t really keep in contact with anybody from my Alloa days, so I’m Stirling through and through now.

AT THE ACADEMY with coach Stewart Taylor

As a new campaign begins, the current Stirling Albion first team raring to get going is one that contains a double figures tally of men who last season remained part of the Binos’ Youth Development Programme. At the head of this programme is long time Albion servant Stewart Taylor, whose previous accolades include roles as an under 18 Scottish National Team Coach and a National Selection Committee Member, as well as a period served as President of the Scottish Schools Football Association. The Albion’s Stuart Kenny caught up with Taylor to get his opinions on the youth set-up and see how the development programme was coming along in the build-up to the 12/13 season. “Since my time in involvement, which has been since day one, Stirling Albion have prided themselves on their loyalty to players,” noted Taylor. “We don’t make wholesale changes at the end of any one season so a good number of the boys that were with us last season will continue to be enrolled with us for the coming season. “At the upper age group, the under 19 level, we’re duty bound to look at players that have been released from Premier League clubs. We have to look at that standard of player, but at the younger level we’re confident that whilst we are always looking to add to the strength of our squad, we tend to give the boys the best opportunity we can, which is normally two or three years to continue to develop within our programme.” Stirling Albion’s Head of Youth was understandably ecstatic to see a further batch of players from the development set-up moving on to Greig McDonald’s squad. “As far as I understand there will be ten players in the first team squad, and that’s why we’re here. Hopefully this coming season all the boys will be given a good opportunity to establish themselves in the first team,” said Taylor. “First team managers are under pressure to achieve results and it’s always a bit of a ‘will I, won’t I’ situation over whether or not to play young players but Greig McDonald has indicated that he is confident we have got decent young boys that have come up through the ranks, and that he is going to be giving them a chance this season. “If we can’t do it when we’re in division three then you would have to question what is the point of having a youth development squad, so it is great that there are so many involved, with five graduating and five moving up from this year’s U19 team. “Over the years I would be confident in saying there is 36 to 40 players that have progressed to first team football at Stirling Albion. Some have established themselves and become fundamental parts of the team, such as Stewart Divine, David O’Brien, Paul Nugent and Scott Chrisite. These men played not just the odd game now and again but were established first team players and they all came through the youth development programme. “It has become well recognised that Stirling Albion do give youngsters a chance, and our younger age group players see that and hopefully it inspires them to continue to progress sufficiently so that they can go on to play in the first team.” “Fingers crossed these boys progress and establish themselves at first team level and maybe attract another club to come in and spend some money on them, because that would be the ideal situation for us.” Taylor went on to highlight a new coaching member his youth set up, stating, “We have a new head of youth coaching, Blair Cremin, who himself was a former player at Stirling Albion who came through the youth development but unfortunately had his career cut short due to injury just after he had made his first team breakthrough. “Blair has rejoined us as our head of youth coaching and he will be producing coaching programmes for the coaches to operate with.”

The youth coach tied up with a message to higher Albion authorities, joking: “Myself and Dave Eccles, our goalkeeping coach who also works with first team, reckon we’re just about due for a testimonial because we’ve been here so long.” One for the board to ponder, perhaps.

Irene’s

The Flower Shop Flowers for all Occassions Give us a Call & we’ll arrange them all All Major Credit Cards Accepted

3 Beech Road, Dunblane Telephone: 01786 823383

STIRL 2012

LING ALBION FC 2/2013 SEASON

D H

The Dunblane Hotel

Chartered Financial Planners

Stephen Pilley APFS, Certs CII (MP & ER) Chartered Financial Planner

10 Stirling Road, Dunblane, Perthsire FK15 9EP Tel: (01786) 822178

NORTHEND GARAGE RAMOYLE

DUNBLANE FK15 0BB All types of vehicle servicing and repair Proprietor David McClymont Tel: 01786 825333 Mob: 07977 059851

100x50Advert

D.S. MacDonald Watchmaker & Jeweller 58 Port Street Stirling FK8 2LJ

89 Barnton Street Stirling FK8 1HJ Te l 0 1 7 8 6 4 7 1 4 8 2 Fa x 0 1 7 8 6 4 7 9 2 4 5 info@kpfm.co.uk w w w. k p f m . c o . u k

Kings Park is a trading name of Kings Park Financial Management (Scotland) Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Ser vices Authority.

The Paper Rack 2 Maxwell Place Stirling 01786 473061

Pick up your paper today!

GEORGE BOLTON & SON JOINERS & BUILDERS

Telephone: 01786 462889 email: stuart@dsmacdonald.co.uk

John McLaren Ltd Electrical Contractor 10 Tannahill Terrace, Dunblane, Perthshire Tel/Fax 01786823533 Mobiles: Andy 07789173656/ Willie 07899877822/John 07769726228

G.S MELDRUM NEWSAGENT HIGH STREET, DUNBLANE Tel: 01786 822175

CENTRAL GARAGE Tel: 01786 473090/ 446460

Service - Repairs - MOT Cars and Light Commercials 23 Borestone Crescent, Stirling, FK7 9BG

P&R Jamieson

PGA Golf Professionals Tuition, Repairs & Equiptment Dunblane New Golf Club

Tel: (01786) 832521

GARDNER PLANT

PLANT HIRER/CONTRACTOR

George Gardner: 07860 812910

Yard

Cornton Level Crossing Bridge of Allan

Andrew Gardner: 07885 136632

Office

18 Inverallan Drive Bridge of Allan FK9 4JP

Tel/Fax (01786) 832 683

On the 25th March 2010, Eilidh Brown passed away after a 14 month battle with Germ Cell Cancer.She was 9 days short of her 16th birthday.

Dunblane Post Office Insurance Travel Money Banking & Payments Letters and Parcels Car Tax Savings & Borrowing Cards for all Ocassions Gift Wrapping Stationary & Small Gifts

Dunblane Post Office 2 Stirling Road, Dunblane, FK15 2EP

TEL/FAX: 01786 825713

The Old Bridge Inn Restaurant

The Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund has been set up by her family to make Eilidh’s wish, of helping others in her situation, come true. The aim of the Memorial Fund is to build and maintain a respite holiday home in the Stirling area for young people and their families who are in treatment for or recovering from cancer. A place where, not only the families can relax and spend quality time together, but they can make memories that will last a lifetime. Before Eilidh passed away, the family took a holiday to Calum’s Cabin, it was their last holiday together. Eilidh wanted other families to have the opportunity to do this too.

www.eilidhbrown.co.uk @EBMemorialFund

Search ‘Eilidh Brown Appeal’

2 Inverallan Road, Bridge of Allan, Stirling FK9 4JA Tel: 01786 833335

ANNAN ATHLETIC ALB I O N AT H O M E preview

SATURDAY AUGUST 11TH 3PM K.O

by Graham Swann

nnan Athletic are the visitors today for Stirling’s opening game of the 2012-2013 Scottish Third Division season. Today’s game is the first ever meeting between the sides. Annan Athletic were voted into the SFL at the start of season 2008-2009 as a replacement for Gretna FC, who had just been liquidated at the time, and they have remained in the fourth tier of Scottish football since entering the league. Last season Annan finished sixth and in a decisively mid table position. The Galabankies’ goal difference goes some way to summing up their mediocre season; 53 goals scored and 53 goals conceded. Not too bad by any means, but nothing special either. This would be particularly frustrating for supporters of the club however as Annan were sitting three points clear at the top of the league after a third of the season. Whilst comfortably clear of the troubles at the bottom of the table, the team ended up eight points short of reaching the play offs. Their escapades at the top end of the table certainly showed their prowess though, and an impressive run to the semi-finals of the challenge cup also demonstrated a heap of potential, with the club beating Ayr United in the quarters before falling to eventual winners Falkirk in the next round. Manager Harry Cairney has been busy during the summer adding several new faces with the aim of building upon this ambitious form. In defence Steven Swinglehurst has been signed from English outfit Carlisle Utd and Cairney has also signed attacking midfielder Scott Chaplain from Albion Rovers. The nineteen year old Swinglehurst earned a Annan’s striking options have also been boosted with several signings. Michael Daly and David Murray have both signed from Queen’s Park and will look to be the main source of goals in the side this season. Stirling will have to keep an eye out for Annan Athletic’s new strike pairing if they are to keep a clean sheet in their opening game of the season. Youngster Kieran McGachie impressed following a successful trial and also joins Annan from SPL outfit Motherwell, whilst the products of the St. Mirren have also been raided by Cairney as he brings in Ally Love and Graeme Ramage. Left sided forward Ally Love made sixteen appearances for East Stirlingshire last season, scoring three goals in the process, whilst after signing for Dumbarton last summer, Ramage also enjoyed a loan spell at the Shire, netting once in his eight appearances for the club last year. 18 year old John Watson meanwhile is set to make the step up to professional level after several years in the youth development ranks of Annan Athletic. After making his debut against East Stirlingshire in May 2011, the player will hope to get himself more time on the pitch this year.

SQUAD BRIEFING THE GAFFER

Harry Cairney has been the manager of Annan Athletic since 2006 and the 2012/13 season will be his seventh season in charge of the Galabankies. During that time Cairney has witnessed Annan’s most significant moment in their history when they gained entry to the SFL from the East of Scotland League in 2008. He was the gaffer of Annan once before his current spell, during the 2003/04 season, after which he moved to Arbroath to take charge there. His spell at Arbroath lasted just over a year however and so Cairney rejoined Annan in 2006. In his 23 year playing career Cairney spent time at Airdrieonians before moving to Stenhousemuir where he made over 300 appearances before transferring to Brechin City. The Annan manager went on to record a whopping 355 appearances for Brechin before retiring in 2003.

CLUB FACTFILE THE SKIPPER Annan skipper Scott Chaplain signed for the club in June after a successful spell with Albion Rovers. Chaplain played 45 times for Rovers after signing in January 2011, scoring fifteen times from his midfield position in these appearances. With the Albion support sad to see him departing, the Galabank faithful will now benefit from the impressive form Chaplain has shown throughout his lengthy career, and the 28 year old is sure to strengthen the core of the Annan team. Described as a model professional, Chaplain has enjoyed spells at Partick Thistle and Dumbarton too, and has chalked up an impressive 59 goals in his 177 SFL games so far. After proving he can strut his stuff in the first and second divisions of Scottish football, Annan will be delighted to have Chaplain leading their side through the 12/13 campaign.

GOAL THREAT After netting six in pre-season, Michael Daly could play a big part in Annan Athletic’s season. The twenty-six year old signed for the club this summer, after playing for Queen’s Park for the last two years. Daly bagged seventeen goals in 38 starts for Queen’s Park, including 11 last season, and will hope to continue his good form into the upcoming SFL season. With the Galabankies netting just 53 times last season, Daly will look to push his new side forward into the top half by extending this statistic in the 12/13 year, and possibly even aim for a top four position come the end of the season.

Founded: 1942 Stadium: Galabank Nickname: Black and Golds Chairman: Henry McLelland Manager: Harry Cairney Honours: East of Scotland Premier League: Winners (4): 1989–90, 1999–2000, 2000–01, 2006–07 Runners up (3): 1992–93, 2002–03, 2004–05 East of Scotland First Division: Winners: 1987–88 East of Scotland League Cup: Winners: 1999–2000 Runners up: 2006–07 South of Scotland League: Winners (2): 1983–84, 1986–87 Runners up (2): 1982–83, 1984–85 South of Scotland League Cup: Winners (4): 1984–85, 1992–93, 2004–05, 2007–08 Scottish Challenge Cup South: Winners: 2007–08 Scottish Qualifying Cup South: Winners: 2006–07

Picture by Alan Watson

SQUAD

results/fixtures 28/07/12 LIVINGSTON RC1 H 1-0 04/08/12 HAMILTON ACCIES LC1 A 0-2 11/08/12 STIRLING ALBION SL3 A 14/08/12 STENHOUSEMUIR RC2 H 18/08/12 BERWICK RANGERS SL3 H 25/08/12 MONTROSE SL3 A 01/09/12 CLYDE SL3 A 15/09/12 RANGERS SL3 H 22/09/12 PETERHEAD SL3 H 29/09/12 TO BE CONFIRMED SC1

Graeme Bell Date of birth: 13/07/86 Position: Forward Previous club: Maxwelltown Thistle

Connor Jamieson Date of birth: 31/07/94 Position: Forward Previous club: Clyde Youths

Alex Mitchell Date of birth: 21/03/91 Position: Goalkeeper Previous club: Gretna 2008

Jack Steele Date of birth: 16/04/89 Position: Defender Previous club: Dalbeattie Star

Jonathan Blake Date of birth: 04/02/91 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Gretna 2008

Chris Jardine Date of birth: 26/11/78 Position: Midfielder Previous club: With Annan since they joined SFL

David Murray Date of birth: 03/10/89 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Queen’s Park

Craig Summersgill Date of birth: 02/10/85 Position: Goalkeeper Previous club: Newcastle Blue Star

Scott Chaplain Date of birth: 09/10/83 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Albion Rovers Danny Collins Date of birth: 05/08/93 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Unattached Michael Daly Date of birth: 24/11/85 Position: Forward Previous club: Queen’s Park Andrew Donley Date of birth: 10/08/87 Position: Forward Previous club: Threave Rovers

Ally Love Date of birth: 22/08/91 Position: Forward Previous club: East Stirling Kieran McGachie Date of birth: 03/06/93 Position: Forward Previous club: Motherwell Michael McGowan Date of birth: 28/09/87 Position: Defender Previous club: Albion Rovers Jordan McKechnie Date of birth: 25/01/92 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Raith Rovers

Pictures by Deena Mobbs

Liam Nicholson Date of birth: 07/04/95 Position: Defender Previous club: Annan Youths

Steven Swinglehurst Date of birth: 23/10/92 Position: Defender Previous club: Carlisle United

Graeme Ramage Date of birth: 28/08/92 Position: Midfield Previous club: Dumbarton

Greig Thorburn Date of birth: 18/02/93 Position: Defender Previous club: Kilmarnock

Kieran Roan Date of birth: 16/04/96 Position: Defender Previous club: Queen of the South

John Watson Date of birth: 13/08/93 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Blantyre Vics

Steven Sloan Date of birth: 21/03/84 Position: Midfield Previous club: With Annan since they joined SFL

Peter Watson Date of birth: 20/04/86 Position: Defender Previous club: Blantyre Vics

BINOS AWAY: Elgin City

SATURDAY, 21 AUGUST 2012 3PM KICK-OFF

preview by Stefan Schmidt After a strong finish to their 11/12 Division Three campaign, Elgin City will be looking to build on last year’s play-off position finish in the upcoming campaign. Losing only five of their last 20 fixtures, Ross Jack’s men beat fellow Northerners Peterhead to the last play-off spot before becoming unstuck against Albion Rovers in the semis, who went on to retain their position in the Second Division. Despite frustration at the result after winning the first leg of the play-off semi 1-0, it was a strong effort that saw the Elgin earn the chance to play Rovers at all. Off the back of last season’s best ever SFL finish, Elgin have moved to strengthen their squad quickly, with one major signing seeing experienced goal scorer Dennis Wyness snapped up on a one year deal from Peterhead. Best known for his spells at Inverness Caley Thistle and Hearts, Wyness made over 250 appearances at these clubs alone, netting 92 times in his eight year period spent between the two current SPL sides. Although getting on in his career at 35 years old, the former SPL front man will hope to continue the goal scoring antics that saw him become an established striker in the Scottish game. Elsewhere, Jack has also been successful in securing promising keeper John Gibson from newly promoted Dundee on a loan deal and former St Mirren defender Sean Crichton has also joined on a two year deal from Montrose. Elgin fans will hope this duo can help solve the defensive issues that saw their team finish with more goals conceded than only East Stirling and Montrose, who were both place in the bottom three of the table. As well as this, Ross has succeeded in re-signing 10 players whose contracts ran up in the summer. If The Black and Whites do hope to remain in contention for a play-off spot they will have to replicate last season’s impressive home form, beating champions Alloa 3-0 and 5-0 at Borough Briggs and commanding an impressive record of only four home losses in the league, making the trip north a daunting task for many teams. While maintaining this at home the team was still grinding out results away from home and overcame some vastly inconstant results, seeing then lose 6-0 away to Queen’s Park and 8-1 away to Alloa at Recreation Park, to see them secure a play-off spot. Many believe that if last season’s top scorer Craig Gunn can repeat his impressive tally of 18 goals, which saw him finish 5th highest scorer in the division, and the squad keeps the same mentality instilled by manager Ross Jack, they can once again challenge at the top of the league and have a great chance of repeating last season’s top four finish.

When we last met Stirling last played City in 2005, winning 2-1 at home in the Scottish Cup, and the team go into this clash on a great run of form over City, not having lost in any of their last 10 games against the side. Albion managed to win all four of their games, including a 6-1 home thrashing, in the 2003/2004 promotion winning 3rd division campaign against Elgin, and Greig McDonald will hope to continue this winning run when the sides meet for the first time in nearly seven years.

the manager Ross Jack has pulled from his vast playing experience to get this group of players together to potentially become one of the highest achieving teams in the clubs history. Only gaining status in the SFL from the Highland League in 2000, Jack has given the team hope they can overcome the inconsistency which has seen them be established as a bottom half team and fight for honours at the top of the division. Having played for the likes of Everton before successful spells at Dunfermline and Kilmarnock, he has went on to take up coaching roles in the Institute of Sport, and after a brief stint at Ross County as assistant he put pen to paper with Elgin in early 2009 to take over the position of Robbie Williamson who quit his post at City.

our record at borough briggs Apr 2004 D3 Won 1-0 Dec 2003 D3 Won 2-0 May 2003 D3 Drew 2-2 Dec 2002 D3 Won 3-0 Jan 2002 D3 Lost 1-2 Aug 2001 D3 Won 3-2 Feb 1977 SC Lost 2-3

Right now at Bridge of Allan Sony Centre

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the best deal available on a brand new Sony TV, then look no further than the Bridge of Allan Sony Centre. We stock all the latest models at the most competitive prices and our fully trained staff are on hand to offer you the best advice. Plus, if you see a better locally advertised like-for-like deal on any Sony product elsewhere

Free 5 Year Warranty on TVS

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL MATCH IT!*

Exclusively for all Albion supporters,

Free Delivery & Installation on Sony Package Deals! on production of Match Day stub or season ticket book. *See in store for full terms and conditions

Bridge of Allan Sony Centre: 5-7 Fountain Road, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4ET. Tel. 01786 832 246 www.sony.co.uk/bridgeofallan

facebook.com/sony.bridgeofallan/

CLYDE FC ALBION AT HOME preview

SATURDAY AUGUST 25TH 3PM K.O

by Fraser Clarke

lyde are the visitors to Forthbank stadium on the 25th August for what will be the first meeting between the clubs since they last played each other in Division Two during the 2009/10 season. That season the Binos were undefeated against their opponents from the outer regions of Glasgow, managing to win three of the encounters between the sides. However, much has changed for both clubs since then, and neither side would have liked to think during that tie that the next time they met would be in the Third Division. The 2011/12 season was one to forget for the Bully Wee. For a club that beat Scottish footballing giants Celtic merely six years ago in a Scottish Cup tie where a certain Roy Keane was making his debut, finishing second bottom in the country’s bottom division represented a dramatic fall. The side won only a single match in their final ten games of the season, albeit against a Stranraer side who have now been promoted to the Second Division, and also suffered heavy defeats to the likes of Queen’s Park, Berwick Rangers and a five nil defeat at the hands of Montrose on the closing day of the season. Experienced manager Jim Duffy, who will be remembered by most for a brace of spells at Dundee, will be determined to turn this poor record from last season on its head at the start of the 12/13 season, and the man who made nearly 400 appearances in his playing career has signed up several new men to benefit the cause. David Marsh is a 22 year old centre back who will make the step up from junior football, joining on a one-year deal from Cumbernauld United and with Duffy citing the central defensive area as one needing improvement following the losses of Brian McQueen and Declan Gallagher from their previous campaign, Marsh could prove particularly important. Duffy has also chosen to boost his striking options with the addition of 17 year old striker Gary Graham from Hearts, whom he has branded “an exciting prospect”, whilst Nic Rajovic has also been brought in from Kilmarnock to provide competition to Jamie Barclay in the goalkeeping area. The manager will hope touch of SPL flair can brighten up his side. If the previous season is anything to go by, Albion should go into the match as favourites, as the side looking to bounce straight back up to the second tier. However, the history books paint a different picture. Of the seventy-one times the two clubs have met, Clyde have been victorious on thirty-one occasions compared to Stirling’s twenty-two wins. Let’s hope these previous meetings don’t hold too much weight on August 25th.

SQUAD BRIEFING THE GAFFER

In Jim Duffy, the Bully Wee have a manger who has managed with success in the upper echelons of Scottish football. In 2003 he managed Dundee to a Scottish Cup final and therefore led the Dens Park side into Europe. He has also managed the likes of Falkirk and Hibernian whilst also venturing south to manage Norwich City in a caretaker role. His experience will surely be a vital component in any success Clyde should have this season, and he has made strides to improve the club’s ninth place finish last season by adding various new faces to his side for the upcoming campaign.

CLUB FACTFILE THE SKIPPER Paul Hay started his career with Clyde back in 1997, making 27 appearances before moving to Stirling Albion in 2001. Hay then went on to make a massive 220 appearances for the Binos over seven seasons, scoring nine goals in the process. After finally leaving Forthbank in 2008, Hay moved to East Stirlingshire, where he would make exactly 100 appearances in his three seasons with the Shire. Hay finally made his way back to the Broadwood Stadium in 2011, and appeared against his old side East Stirlingshire when Clyde recorded a resounding 7-1 victory in October last year. The defensive midfield player adds a critical edge of experience to Jim Duffy’s side, and will look to guide them to various successes later this year.

GOAL THREAT Stefan McCluskey will look to make himself a fans’ favourite this season after joining Clyde in the summer. McCluckey signed from Shotts Bon Accord in the summer, after a successful season at the junior side that saw him finish as their top scorer. His 24 goals in the 11/12 season helped Shotts to a 2nd place finish in, and a subsequent promotion from, the West Superleague First Division, and after signing a two year contract with the bully wee, he will no doubt be looking to continue his scoring antics in the SFL. McCluskey scored one of the winning goals in Shotts 2-1 Emirates Junior Cup triumph at Almondvale last May, and after catching the eye of the Clyde staff, was signed to strengthen their attacking force.

Founded: 1877 Stadium: Broadwood Stadium Nickname: The Bully Wee Chairman: John Alexander Manager: Jim Duffy Honours: Scottish Cup: Winners: 1938-39, 1954-55, 1957-58 Runners up: 1909-10, 1911-12, 1948-49 Scottish Challenge Cup: Runners up: 2006-07 Scottish First Division Winners: 1904-05, 1951-52, 195657, 1961-62, 1972-73 Runners up: 1903-04, 1905-06, 1925-26, 1963-64, 2002-03, 200304 Scottish Second Division Winners: 1977-78, 1981-82, 199293, 1999-2000 Play-Off Winners: 2007-08

Picture: Clyde FC

SQUAD

Results/fixtures Jamie Barclay 28/07/12 Date of birth: PARTICK THISTLE RC1 H 0-1 26/09/89 Position: Goal04/08/12 keeper Previous club: BerAYR UNITED LC1 A 1-6 wick Rangers 11/08/12 MONTROSE SL3 A 18/08/12 PETERHEAD SL3 H 25/08/12 STIRLING ALBION SL3 A 01/09/12 ANNAN ATHLETIC SL3 H 15/09/12 QUEEN’S PARK SL3 A 22/09/12 EAST STIRLING SL3 A 29/09/12 TO BE CONFIRMED SC1

Paul Hay Date of birth: 14/11/80 Position: Defender Previous club: East Stirling

Stuart McColm Date of birth: 07/01/89 Position: Forward Previous club: Stranraer

John Kane Date of birth: 08/06/87 Position: Defender Previous club: Stranraer

John Neill Jack Sloss Date of birth: Date of birth: 17/08/87 03/12/93 Position: Midfielder Position: Midfielder Previous club: EastPictures Previous club:Mobbs by Deena Stirling Clyde Youths

Daniel Fitzpatrick Date of birth: 08/05/92 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Clyde Youths

David Marsh Date of birth: 06/04/90 Position: Defender Previous club: Cumbernauld United

Michael Oliver Date of birth: 20/03/90 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Harestanes Amateurs

Gary Graham Date of birth: 27/04/95 Position: Forward Previous club: Hearts

Ryan MacBeth Date of birth: 29/04/91 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Partick Thistle

Iain Gray Date of birth: 13/05/91 Position: Defender Previous club: St Mirren

Stefan McCluskey Date of birth: 22/08/90 Position: Forward Previous club: Shotts Bon Accord

Nic Rajovic Date of birth: 21/02/93 Position: Goalkeeper Previous club: Kilmarnock

Gavin Brown Date of birth: 03/06/91 Position: Defender Previous club: Kilmarnock

Pat Scullion Date of birth: 02/03/86 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Stenhousemuir

Lee Sharp Date of birth: 22/05/75 Position: Defender Previous club: Stranraer

John Sweeney Date of birth: 16/09/87 Position: Midfielder Previous club: Pollok Juniors Kevin Watt Date of birth: 01/10/89 Position: Forward Previous club: Bo’ness United

Division 3 Sta David Chalmers takes you through a graphical guide of all the stadiums in Division 3 that Stirling Albion will be visiting over the course of the 2012/2013 season.

Team: Elgin City Stadium Name: Borough Briggs Capacity: 3,927 Miles from Stirling: 163 miles Set your sat-nav to: Borough Briggs Rd, Borough Briggs, Elgin, IV30 1AP

Team: Clyde FC Stadium Name: Broadwood Stadium Capacity: 8,029 Miles from Stirling: 16 miles Set your sat-nav to: Broadwood Stadium, 1 Ardgoil Drive, Glasgow G68 9NE

Team: Rangers FC Stadium Name: Ibrox Stadium Capacity: 50,411 Miles from Stirling: 32 miles Set your sat-nav to: 150 Edmiston Drive, Glasgow, G51 2XD

Team: Annan Athletic Stadium Name: Galabank Capacity: 3,500 Miles from Stirling: 101 miles Set your sat-nav to: Galabank, North Street, Annan, DG12 5DQ

adium Guide Team: Peterhead FC Stadium Name: Balmoor Stadium Capacity: 4,000 Miles from Stirling: 152 Miles Set your sat-nav to: Lord Catto Park, Peterhead, AB42 1EU

Team: Montrose FC Stadium Name: Links Park Capacity: 3,292 Miles from Stirling: 85 Miles Set your sat-nav to: Wellington St, Montrose, DD10 8QD

Team: East Stirling Stadium Name: Ochilview Park Capacity: 4,131 Miles from Stirling: 10 Miles Set your sat-nav to: 202 Stirling Road, Larbert, Falkirk, FK5 3NJ

Team: Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park Stadium Name: Hampden Park Capacity: 52,063 Miles from Stirling: 33 Miles Set your sat-nav to: Letherby Drive, Glasgow G42 9BA

Team: Berwick Rangers Stadium Name: Shielfield Park Capacity: 4,131 Miles from Stirling: 101 Miles Set your sat-nav to: Shielfield Park, Tweedmouth, TD15 2EF

Myles Hogarth talks to Stuart Kenny about the 03/04 season in Division 3

he year was 2003 and after several summers where prosper had overlooked Forthbank, the Binos were once again firing on all cylinders under the management of Allan Moore. Following a brace of seasons in Division Three, it proved third time lucky for Stirling Albion as they emphatically proved they were too good for the fourth tier of Scottish football. The team finished nine points clear of Gretna to claim the second automatic promotion place in the division, just two points behind league leaders Stranrear. The Binos defence was as strong as the local castle walls that season, conceding just 29 times in the league season thanks to a solid back four and reliable goalkeeper Myles Hogarth, who was appearing in what would be the first of many full seasons at Forthbank. Former Falkirk man Hogarth played an extensive 40 times in the promotion season of 03/04, missing only one league game, and went on to chalk up a remarkable 197 appearances for Stirling Albion in his seven year spell

at the club. Stuart Kenny caught up with Myles to talk about that eventful season and find out his views on the Bino’s chances of success in Division Three this time around. “Going in to the [03/04] season, there wasn’t any targets set,” noted Hogarth. “We had struggled at the wrong end of the table the season before so the aim was to improve on that position. As the season progressed however, it became obvious that we were a tight unit with a great work ethic. That mixed in with the talent in the team meant we were in there challenging. Result followed result and the belief within the changing room grew and grew.” An average of 754 people turned out to watch the Bino’s per game over the course of that successful season, more than any other Division 3 club that year, and Hogarth’s performances certainly gave the Albion faithful no reason to frown. The goalkeeper believes the defence he was part of that year pushed the Binos into contention for the title. “It was the key to us getting promoted,” he

commented. “We had a lot of clean sheets that season and won a lot of games by the odd goal. We had myself, Nal [Mark McNally] and George Rowe at the back, so we had a bit of experience and a great desire and will to win which converted the tight games into wins or draws. We built up a lot of points on that basis. “Trigger [Scott McLean] was the other key factor,” continued the veteran stopper. The 03/04 season saw Scott McLean, known as Trigger by his teammates, net a noteworthy twentyone times, and the former Partick Thistle man went on to score a very impressive thirty goals in his forty-nine games in the red and white of Stirling. McLean could only claim second place in the goal scoring chart that season however, coming up three goals short of Stranraer’s prolific Michael Moore. “We knew that if we kept things tight there was always a chance that [McLean] would nick a goal and get us the win. He was strong and had a great eye for goal. He held the ball up really well for us and with the other guys showing pace in the team, like David O’Brien, he was

brilliant at linking others into the play.” “The week we were promoted we won at Shire’s park but Stranraer also beat Gretna. That ruled Gretna out of getting promoted so effectively promoted us, but there was a feeling that if Gretna had won our chances of winning the league outright would have been a lot higher. “That said, maybe I’m being greedy. Gretna were outspending everyone in the league at that time so for us to finish above them and get promoted was a big achievement. Getting promoted was massive for the club, and given where the manager had taken the club from, we did give it big licks on the celebration front.” Having experienced three promotions and one relegation during his time with the Binos, Hogarth has certainly had his ups and downs in an Albion shirt, and he certainly knows what it takes to play in a winning side. The shot stopper believes a quick start is imperative for any team directly following relegation. “It’s important to start the season strongly,”

noted Hogarth. “After just being relegated it’s important to be strong at home in particular. If you can stay in the mix up to Christmas then build from there then you never know what could happen. Knowing Greig he will work the guys really hard in pre-season and make sure they are ready from the word go. “There’s not a massive gap in terms of quality from Division Two to Three, so any team can be hard to beat and string a few results together, and if you gather momentum you have a chance. I certainly hope Stirling can do that.” Now aged thirty-seven, Myles continues to strut his stuff between the posts each weekend, and currently plays his trade for SFJA East Superleague side Camelon F.C. The veteran goalkeeper does not have retirement in his sights however. “I really enjoy my time at Camelon. There are a lot of players in the Superleague who choose to play there rather than in the lower senior leagues so the standard is good. Camelon is a bye-kick from my house so it means I can fit in everything else in my life while still playing. It’s a good fit. “I suppose I am at the veteran stage of my career but I love being fit and being involved, so as long as I still have that hunger I’ll keep doing so.”

The Springkerse View Whatever the occasion, you know you can count on The Springkerse View. If it’s a special day and you need to impress the in-laws, or just want to grab a quick bite to eat with friends, the seasonal menu, friendly service and warm welcome you receive will make sure your visit is everything you need it to be. 2 for £9.95 all day Monday - Thursday and until 5pm on Fridays & Sunday Roast £7.99, 2 course £9.99, 3 courses £11.99 We've got a great new summer offer- 2 for £9.95 is available all day Monday - Thursday and until 5pm on Fridays and don't forget on Sundays our roasts are £7.99 with 2 courses just £9.99 and 3 courses £11.99. See our menu for details. The practical stuff: it’s always good to know the opening times... Monday to Thursday – 9.30am till 11pm (food served till 9.30pm) Friday and Saturday – 9.30am till 11.30pm (food served till 10pm) Sunday – 9.30am till 11pm (food served till 9pm) www.eating-inn.co.uk/house/springkerse-view-stirling

HUNTERS EXECUTIVE COACHES Hunters Executive Coaches has one of the finest coach fleets in Central Scotland, situated in Alloa, Clackmannanshire. Hunters Executive Coaches was established by John Hunter, the current owner, and the company has gone from strength to strength due to the dedication of the Hunter family. We are well known for providing excellent customer care, reliability, professionalism, quality coaches and drivers. www.huntersexecutivecoaches.co.uk/

THE ALBION LOTTO

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE YOUR CHANCE TO WIN UP TO £20,000

MONTHLY For 1 entry - £4.33 For 2 entries - £8.66 For 3 entries - £12.99

Help the Binos - Whenever You Buy! with

Please help Stirling Albion whenever you buy, for free! It's very simple - just visit http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/safctrust to register and shop with over 2000 well known retailers like Amazon, Argos, M&S, eBay and many more. Whenever you buy something, the retailer makes a donation to Stirling Albion Supporters Trust. They've helped other causes raise over £2,000,000 so it really does work.

Stirling Albion Mark Peat

Sam Filler Dick King

Stephen Day Iain Glen

Gavin Macpherson Jim Thomson

David McClune

Jamie Clark http://www.skyeluxurycottage.com/

Brian Allison

Jamie McCunnie

The City Walls

Bridge of Allan Supporters

Gary Thom

Danny Ashe

Craig Stewart

David Ogilvie

Daly McSorley

Josh Flood

Stephen Jones

Contact the club on 01786 450399 to sponsor a Bino now! *Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Roy and Sheena McFarlane

2012/13 Squad Greig McDonald

Ina Shaw M.B.E

Shaun Fagan

Marc McCulloch

Andy Hunter

Kieran McAnespie

Jim Scrimgeour

Mark Ferry

Scott Davidson

Gary Brass

McKenzie Trailers Ltd

Ian Jones

Dron & Dickson Ltd.

Graham Weir

Victor and Debbie Nelson

Ross McGeachie W. Turnbull Newsagents

Richie Kirwan

Contact the club on 01786 450399 to sponsor a Bino now! *Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

John Turnbull

Bradley Coyne

60 SECONDS WITH... David Chalmers caught up with John Allison, manager at The City Walls about Albion and their partnership with the club DC: Tell us a bit about The City Walls... JA: “The City Walls, as a business, has been here for over 15 years; it’s been City Walls for the past 5 years. The venue is owned by Belhaven, Scotland’s largest managed pub company. It’s very much a traditional pub; a bit of a modern feel to it with the design inside, but it’s built into the walls and there’s serious heritage here in Stirling. I’ve been here only six months as a manager, but have been in before as a customer. I was delighted to come here as a manager, I’ve always like it as a venue and I like Stirling. Coming here, I wanted to make sure we were linked to community projects and one of those was Stirling Albion. I understand the nuance of lower league football as a Jags fan, and wanted to make sure we had a rapport with the fans. The team have been down on a few nights out, they’re great guys. Is this the first time you’ve linked up with Albion? “There’s been no work before, and I felt straightaway that had to be addressed. The people who come in here love the fact that one of the local businesses is prepared to put money into their local team. It’s about showing people we’re behind the team. I’m buying a season ticket this year. Hopefully people realise there’s a business here willing to support a good cause like the Albion.I want to show that we’re supporting the club; this isn’t about me, or my business. That’ll come in time. What I want to do is to show that as a business, we appreciate Stirling people, the fact that we have a club that is important to the city, and show that we’re backing them. We’re a sports bar; I love my sports. People appreciate the fact we back the local team and it’s about the great work the coaches to do with the kids, the families and the junior teams, you know? We want people to realise that there’s more to Stirling Albion FC than just the first eleven. Any thoughts on the Rangers situation? “Scottish football is in a perilous state, and despite the politics, having Rangers in the third division is fantastic as a one-off for some of these teams. There are talks of live TV coverage, and now all of a sudden our commitment could give us more exposure than we ever thought.” What’s your hopes for the season? “I would hope for promotion, but it looks like it’s going to have to be through the play-offs with Rangers there. Everyone will want to up their game, but I feel Stirling have quality and experience, and a manager who wants to prove himself and they’ll be ensuring they’ll be up there. How would you advertise The City Walls to Albion supporters? “It’s very much a family venue. Our food offerings

have great value; it’s great pub food, comfort food, average prices for main courses are £7, £8, We appreciate that money doesn’t go as far as you’d like it to, so we like to marry value with service. Someone coming in for a coffee should be looked after the same way as a 30-man. This is a local city and I want City Walls to be the ‘third place’. The first place is your home, the second place is your work; well, the third place, I want it to be City Walls. I want you to feel like you can meet your friends here while shopping, you can pop in after work and just sit quietly and read your newspaper and have a drink, or if you’re on a night out, this is where you come to first. Future plans for the links with the club “This is the first time we’ve done this, and it’s taken me a bit of work to convince my bosses it’s the right thing to do, but we do believe supporting a local venture is good in a community like Stirling. If it’s successful, and I will work hard to make it successful, then next year we’ll increase advertising. Stirling is, as I keep saying, a community based city, people know what goes on and customers like the fact we’re playing an active role in the city. I’d like to put vouchers in the mag’, handing things out to customers and offering prizes online… Every week on our Facebook I want to have links to Stirling Albion, get people commenting on what the score might be, etc. so that people know we have a strong link to the club. ‘The club cares’ “My father has MS and is in his 70’s now and it wasn’t until he contracted it that you realise about the facilities and help you can get. The first time I came to Forthbank, we parked right outside the Away stand and the stewards immediately saw my Dad and came straight over and said ‘Sir, come over’ and there was a big queue of Thistle fans. They opened the double doors, ‘Sir, your seat is over there.’ That has always stuck with me, and my Dad remembers it still. When you look after people like that, people remember it, and potentially, that’s why I’ll put more into Stirling Albion, because they look after people. You know, the guys work really hard, you can see they put the effort in because they care about the team and want to give something back.” The City Walls 6 Back Walk, Rock Terrace, Stirling, FK8 2QA t: 01786 451063 w: www.thecitywalls.co.uk Search ‘City Walls Stirling

Prudential proudly supports Stirling Albion Best of luck for the 2012/13 season