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Match reaction 31st August 2005
Despite a gritty second half fightback Queens went down 2-1 to St Mirren in the Bell's Cup at Palmerston tonight. Afterwards manager Iain Scott said, "Obviously I'm disappointed to lose for we could and should have taken the match to extra-time. After equalising to lose a goal so quickly was a blow particularly as it took two deflections on its way into the net but there were two real positives out there tonight - firstly we scored a goal and a good one at that and secondly, there was a lot of effort from everyone. We all know we've a real battle ahead of us but the players plus Warren and I are ready for it.

"I thought Willie Gibson was outstanding and thoroughly deserved his man of the match award and young Paul Burns in my opinion came a close second. But I couldn't fault any player tonight, they fought to the bitter end and that's what I'm looking for."

St Mirren manager Gus McPherson was just happy to be in the next round. Said Gus, "We won the tie and that was our main objective. I thought we played very well in the first half but as expected Queens came out fighting after the interval. All credit to them they scored a good goal but we hit back in a couple of minutes although the ball did take a bit of a deflection. They put us under a lot of pressure in the dying stages but our defence held firm. We meet each other again in the league in ten days time but it will be a totally different game."

Bill Goldie
Cup-tie Special 30th August 2005
Queens take on St Mirren tomorrow night in the second round of the Bell's Challenge Cup and manager, Iain Scott, realises full well it will be a tough game. Speaking to the 'Website' he conceded, "They are a good side and going exceptionally well at the moment and are my personal favourites to gain promotion this season. But this is a cup game--a one-off--and we'll be going all out to win. We've had a reasonable record against St Mirren those past two seasons and honours are about even, but we have home advantage so it's up to us to make it count.

"We had a serious discussion with the players last week and they were given an ultimatum for I know some of them are under performing and I'm not prepared to accept that. I stressed then that changes would be made and they will be in the starting line-up tomorrow night. Obviously I'm not saying what they are but you'll find out yourselves".

Asked about the disipline problem following two red cards in two games and five yellow ones at Broadwood on Saturday the manager explained, "I don't think it's as bad as it looks. When a team's losing matches and decisions go against you, frustration creeps in and then you 'fall foul' of the referee. Some of the cards were merited but others I felt a bit harsh".

Remember, kick-off is 7.45 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Team News 30th August 2005
Derek Lyle returns to the squad for the cup-tie following a one game suspension but again it will be a last minute decision on John O'Neill and his hamstring problem. Added 'Scotty', "John is desperate to play, particularly since it's against his former club but I'm in a dilemma. It's a big decision, for after tomorrow we have a ten day break until our next game and that would give him more time to ensure he's fully fit. If I do play him and he's comes through unscathed, then that's fine, but if he 'breaks down' again it could mean another month on the sidelines and that's the last thing we want. So it's one of those ackward decisions--I'll be damned if I do and damned if I don't! We also have a few others with minor knocks, but I'm sure they'll be O.K."

He also admits that there's little chance now of any new players coming in prior to the 'Windows' closing at midnight tomorrow and added, "We've been linked with both Alex Burke and Sean O'Connor in the last two weeks. We did try for 'Burky' when we heard he was available but Ross County have now changed their minds and have stated, 'He's now staying at Dingwall'. As for Sean--he wanted to come back to Palmerston and made no secret of that and we as a club wanted him back as well. However, he's a signed player with Morecambe and we couldn't quite reach agreement on a couple of unsurmountable hurdles".

The manager did admit there would be four 'trialists' joining the squad for training very shortly. "One's from Spain, one's from France and the other two from Wales and the Hull area", said 'Scotty'. "None of them are under contract to any other club so they can be signed outwith the 'windows' period if we so desired. And only one of them has played in the Scottish Leagues", he concluded.

Bill Goldie
Reserves lose to 'Spiders' 30th August 2005
Queens' Reserves went down 3-1 to Queens Park in their second outing in the S.W. Scotland Reserve League at Lesser Hampden last night. Q.O.S. took an early lead with James Baty scoring but the homesters equalised before the interval and two more goals in the second half earned them a comfortable victory. Six youngsters from the Under-17 squad were in our team pool which also included first team men, David McNiven and Stephen Payne.

Bill Goldie
A 'good luck' message from Robbie. 29th August 2005
With Hearts sitting proundly at the top of the Premier League and Queens rooted to the bottom of the First Division, they appear to have little in common, apart of course a player called Robbie Neilson. Robbie took time out yesterday to talk to the 'website' about Wednesday's Challenge Cup tie against St Mirren at Palmerston and said he'd love to see Queens win through.

Said Robbie, now starring for the Tynecastle table-toppers, "I was looking through the papers this morning and noticed that Queen of the South were due to meet the Paisley side this week and my thoughts immediately went back to that night three years ago when Queens won 5-3 at Love Street. I had just joined Queens 'on loan' from Hearts and met the players for the first time on the day of the match. But they all made me most welcome and we went on to win the tie to secure a place in the final.
"If I remember right, three times we took the lead but Saints pulled back each time to make it 3-3. I recall a great goal from Steve Bowey, Peter Weatherson scoring late to make it 4-3, and I think it was Paul Shields who netted in the final minute to ensure victory. What a start at my new club and what a memorable debut. We went on to beat Brechin City in the final and that winner's medal still takes 'pride of place' in my trophy case. I'd love now to win a Scottish Cup or a C.I.S. Cup medal to go along with it--or better still, a League Championship one.

"I'll always remember the special camaraderie in the Palmerston dressing room and we had great laughs at Andy Goram and Derek Anderson who were real jokers but I didn't believe all their tales. After winning the Challenge Cup at Broadwood, Andy tried to 'smuggle' a crate of beer onto the team bus, but the driver spotted it and went 'mental'.

"I had been struggling at Hearts before coming to Dumfries but after four months at Palmerston I returned a better and more experienced player and regained my first team place. I'll always be grateful to Queens for 'kick-starting' my career and thank the fans for all the support and encouragement they gave me.

"Jamie McAllister and myself often talk about our days at Palmerston and it's always the first result we look for after a game. Although Jamie had left Queens for Aberdeen three years before I came down, some of the players like Andy Aitken and Jim Thomson were known to both of us. However, one thing we do have in common, we've both played for Queens in a Challenge Cup final--but the one big difference, I have the winners medal and I never let him forget that".

Asked if he keeps in touch with any of the Queens' players Robbie says, "I speak to Kenny Crichton on a regular basis, I bump into Derek Lyle every now and then and Eric Paton is a near neighbour of mine in Cumbernauld, so I see him on occasions. Robbie and his partner, Julie, have just moved to a new house and are 'over the moon' with their new addition to the family--four month old, Eva. Robbie send regards to all at Palmerston and wishes Queens all the best for Wednesday night.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 29th August 2005
The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw Richie Barnard win the award with Brian McColligan second and a four way tie for third between gary Wood, Eric Paton, Steve Bowey and Tommy English.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.
Match reaction 27th August 2005
For the third time in the league this season Queens failed to find the net as they went down by the only goal of the game to Clyde at Broadwood. And, as so often happens, it was an ex-player who came back to haunt us, Alex Williams scoring the all important counter in the fifteenth minute.

Said manager Iain Scott after the game, "I'm extremely disappointed particularly at our first half performance. We've tried to keep faith with players for we know they have the ability but unfortunately some of them appear to be in a kind of 'comfort zone' at present and that's totally unacceptable. So I'll certainly be ringing the changes! When you are down they always say that the breaks go against you and that's what's happening to us at the moment. Even the goal we conceded should have been cleared and eventually went into the net off Alex Williams' shin at the third time of trying. We dominated play in the last twenty five minutes but again couldn't find the net but there's no good feeling sorry four ourselves. We still lost.

"Brian McColligan had a couple of good shots that came close and we had a goal disallowed in the last minutes but it just wasn't good enough.

"One consolation, we've four of our next six league fixtures at Palmerston so it's imperative we pick up points from these matches."

Bill Goldie
Queens 6-0 Dundee 26th August 2005
Colin Rutherford who among other jobs for Queens is one of our regular programme contributors was at Hampden today on business and had a chat and coffee with wee Gordon Strachan who well remembered the 6-0 defeat of his team Dundee back in 1977 at Palmy. He even named most of the Queens team that fabulous night - Oh for a "Chopper" and Peter Dickson now!

BLW
Team News for Saturday 25th August 2005
Following his 'red card' at Dundee, Derek Lyle is suspended for Saturday's match with Clyde at Broadwood. And it will be 'touch and go' whether John O'Neill plays or not. Said 'Scotty', "It's not looking good! John had a fitness test prior to training on Monday night and passed. We sent him up to the Crichton to join the rest of the players but in the final session he felt the hamstring playing up again. It's really frustrating! At the moment he's receiving intensive treatment from our physio who says 'It's moved from the tendon to the muscle' which is a good sign. But we'll not know for certain until Saturday".

Stephen Payne, however, returns to the squad after missing out at Dens Park with a cut and facial bruises following an accident on the golf course.

Late Newsflash--Derek Lyle has only received a one-match suspension for Saturday's sending-off.

Bill Goldie
Mistaken Identity 25th August 2005
A controversial incident occurred during Monday night's Reserve match against Morton at Palmerston. Stuart Hill, who had received an early 'booking', was sent off five minutes from time for alleged 'shirt pulling', which meant a second 'yellow card'. Despite strong protests young Stuart was forced to leave the field but the culprit was actually Gareth Campbell who owned up to it. A clear case again of 'mistaken identity' (as in the Gretna v Dunfermline cup-tie) but without video evidence, what can be done?

Bill Goldie
Queens at Broadwood 24th August 2005
Queens head for Broadwood on Saturday still seeking their first league win of the season. Commenting on the game manager, Iain Scott, admitted, "Broadwood is never an easy place to go and collect points, but on our last visit there back in March we beat Clyde, 1-0, and that was the start on a three-match unbeaten run for us. And that would do us nicely at this moment in time! Graham Roberts has brought in many new players since he took over and although we had them 'watched' they're still a bit of an unknown quantity. We know all about Alex Williams of course, for he played for us last season and Tom Brighton was a player we nearly signed ourselves in the summer, but apart from that they're nearly all newcomers.

"However Graham has obviously instilled a lot of fight in his side, but he was that type of player himself--full of spirit. They're very hard working and never give up and that was proven last night when they went all the way to Peterhead, were 2-1 down at half-time with a man sent off, and still battled back to win 3-2. We'll go into the game as underdogs, but it's sometimes better that way.

"I was up at Perth watching our cup opponents St Mirren play St Johnstone in the C.I.S. Cup on Tuesday and was very impressed with their display. Gus McPherson has strengthened his squad during the break and I rate them the best side I've seen in our division this season. Apart from Airdrie, Hamilton and Stranraer I've watched them all, but St Mirren have power, pace and height--all the essential qualities required for our league.

"That's twice in the space of four days they've won at Perth so Gus has really got them 'flying' at the moment. We play them in the Challenge Cup at Palmerston next Wednesday night and again at home in the league ten days later, so we'll need to be at our very best.

"Another side who had a brilliant result last night was Stranraer who beat Dundee 3-1 at Stair Park. They too have started well and with the height and strength they've got in their squad will be a hard team to beat when we meet them in the 'local derby' down there next month. As I said on the 'website' a few weeks ago, this league will be harder than ever this season and all our players will have to understand that".

Bill Goldie
No go for O'Brien 24th August 2005
The proposed 'loan deal' with Newcastle United for their flying winger, Alan O'Brien, now appears to be 'dead and buried'. Said 'Scotty', "I spoke with Tommy Craig earlier this week and he informed me that the lad has been playing so well lately, in fact so well that he's on the verge of earning a place on the first-team bench. ' He's going nowhere' said Tommy, He's being retained at St James Park".

Bill Goldie
Reserves go down 22nd August 2005
Queens went down 1-0 to a strong Morton side in their opening fixture of the South West reserve league at Palmerston tonight. The home line up consisted of youngsters from last season's U19 squad, first team players Willie Gibson, Chris Carr, Paul Burns, Brian McLaughlin and Colin Scott in goals plus a young trialist at centre forward.

Morton's big signing Chris Templeman was upfront for the visitors but was well marshalled by Chris Carr. The only goal of the game came midway through the second half when a corner was deflected past the keeper. Queens pressed hard for the equaliser but their hopes were dashed when Stuart Hill was sent off with five minutes left. In the dying stages Colin Scott pulled off two brilliant saves to prevent the visitors increasing their tally.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 22nd August 2005
The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw Tommy English take the award with Richie Barnard second and Steve Bowey third.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.
Match reaction 20th August 2005
Another away defeat and again Queens finish with ten men, no points and subsequently slip to the foot of the table. After going 2-0 down Derek Lyle pulled one back but turned from saint to sinner in the second half after being sent off for head butting an opponent. But one positive to come out of the game we did get our first league goal on the board.

Said the manager after the game, "Up until their first goal I thought we were in control. They got a free kick that never was and the goal itself came from a ricochet off Gary Wood. I can't complain too much at the second goal, it came from a good set piece but our lads claimed there was a hand ball not given. Our goal came straight from a training ground exercise. A long ball in from Tommy English, David McNiven flicked it on and Del Lyle was right on the spot at the far post to knock it home. I felt we were getting on top after that but then came their third goal which also came from a rebound.

"Following that Del got sent off and it was just a case of battling away. We were very unlucky at two of the goals and we actually didn't get the break of the ball. We've still to play Dundee three times this season and I'm convinced you can take points off them - both on our patch and at Dens Park. They're a good side and one of the favourites for promotion but not unbeatable. We always knew we had a hard start to the season but although we're bottom there are only three points separating seven clubs so it looks like being a tight league again. I'm disappointed but not pessimistic."

As Derek Lyle was sent off for 'violent conduct' it looks as if he'll have a two match suspension.

Bill Goldie
O' Neill out for Dundee clash 18th August 2005
John O'Neill will miss out on the visit to Dens Park on Saturday. Said manager, Iain Scott, "We were hoping that John would be back for the game at Dundee, but it's not to be. We gave him a rigorous work-out at training last night but, unfortunately, he's not going to make it. With a hamstring injury you can't take any risks for it could lead to a lengthly spell on the sidelines.

"Gary Wood will be back in the squad after his suspension last week and, at this moment of time, all the other lads are fit and healthy. We'll need to be at our very best as Dundee are a strong side and one of the favourites for promotion. I'm told it's 28 years since we last beat them up at Dens Park--so long ago that Allan Ball was in goal for us that afternoon. Therefore, three points would come as a real bonus for us".

Bill Goldie
Watch out - thieves about! 17th August 2005
The Club Shop at Palmerston was broken into at Palmerston last night and a substantial amount of goods stolen. If you are offered any of this seasons new items from unauthorised sources then please help us by either informing the police or by emailing the website on webmaster@qosfc.com with as much information as possible.
'Scotty'--still on track 17th August 2005
The manager is still on the track of the 20-year-old Newcastle winger who has often been mentioned in despatches in recent weeks. "I was down watching him play for Newcastle Reserves at Wolverhampton last night and again he was most impressive. There was another lad there who 'caught my eye' but the winger is our main priority at the moment. He's lightning fast and it would be a real boost if we could get him. It would be a 'loan' deal if it went ahead and I'm hoping to hear from Tommy Craig very shortly on his availability".

Bill Goldie
'Jonjo'--the missing link? 17th August 2005
Iain Scott is hoping that John O'Neill will make his comeback against Dundee on Saturday and reckons he could be the 'missing link'. He's been out for the past three matches since injuring his hamstring against Albion Rovers in the Challenge Cup but it will be a last minute decision as to whether he plays or not. Said 'Scotty', "John has been badly missed. He's the 'imagination' in the side--the link between midfield and the strikers and his deft flicks can create the chances we so badly need". Gary Wood will return after his one match suspension but new signing, Stuart McGrady, will require more training and some games in the Reserves to get him match fit and available for selection.

Bill Goldie
Reserves kick-off 17th August 2005
Queens' Reserves commence the new season in the South-West Reserve League with a home match against Morton at Palmerston on Monday night. Kick-off is at 7.30 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Courier Sports Forum 16th August 2005
A new place to discuss the fortunes of Queens is opening shortly when the Dumfriesshire Newspaper Group begins to publish a sports forum in their publications, this includes the Dumfries Courier, Annandale Observer, Annandale Herald and the Moffat News. If you would like to contribute then you can text your comments to 0778 861 7297 or email Alan Hall at ah@dngonline.co.uk.

BLW
Ted recovering 15th August 2005
Former Queens star and local lad Ted McMinn has had part of his foot removed in an operation in his adopted home of Derby we hear. Full details and a very good interview can be found on BBC Derby website

We are sure that everyone connected with Queens and who remember his amazing dribbling skills down the right hand side of the park will join with us in wishing Ted all the best and a speedy recovery.

BLW
Man of the match 15th August 2005
The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw Steve Bowey take the award with Richie Barnard second and Brian Reid third.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.
From the Chairman 14th August 2005
Perhaps the less said about the St Johnstone game the better. After losing the second goal just before half time, then having Gary Wood sent off three minutes into the second half, there was no way back, so we just had to accept defeat. Owen Coyle has brought in nine new players during the close season and if they play like that every week they'll certainly be a force to be reckoned with. Like every Queen of the South supporter I was really 'down in the dumps' at the final whistle and by jove it was a long and silent journey back home on the bus.

For the sake of the programme deadline I'm writing this article on Tuesday, the day before the Stirling Albion game, so it makes it a bit difficult. However, I can't stress enough how important it is for us to win this match and progress to the next round. Most of the Premier League sides come into the competition at that stage and with us finishing fourth in the First Division last season we'd be 'seeded'--that's if we win of course. We would then meet a side from one of the two bottom leagues or a club who finished below us in our league.

With the 'Old Firm and the other teams involved in Europe coming in at round three it could well lead to a nice little 'windfall'. So that's why we must win at Stirling and the management team and all the players know the score.

After a year 'downstairs' it's good to welcome the directors and fans of Brechin City back to Palmerston. Dick Campbell is now at Partick Thistle but his twin brother, Ian, is now in charge and I'm sure he'll prove every bit as much as disciplinarian as Dick was. Welcome also to all our sponsors in attendance and our young match-day mascots.

Our Under-15 squad is now back from Northern Ireland, representing the club in the major youth tournament for the Milk Cup. Although they only managed one win they performed exceptionally well, particularly against the two big clubs they played, Stockholm and Everton. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their financial help for without the donations the trip wouldn't have been possible. Also special thanks to the coaches who gave up their valuable time to supervise the youngsters.

And finally, the new Queens' book, 'Memories of the Modern Era' (priced at £7.00) will again be available from the club shop today. All profits will go to the club, so every one sold will help us.

David Rae

Reproduced from Saturday's official programme v Brechin City

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 13th August 2005
It was goal-less at Palmerston this afternoon and after three matches and 270 minutes of football with only a single goal to show for our efforts Queens fans must now be asking 'where are the goal coming from'.

Manager Iain Scott was philosophical at the end of the game and said, "It was another story of missed chances for us and the match should have been won by half time. We had by far the bulk of the pressure but when it's like that there's always the fear factor that they might break away and score - and they nearly did near the end.

"We played with more passion today and gave a lot of effort but it still wasn't good enough. However it's our first points on the board also a 'clean sheet' and what a difference it made to have Brian Reid back in defence for he reads the game so well.

"Brechin are never an easy team to beat. They battled hard and defended well so all credit to them on that score."

Asked about new players Scotty said, "Stuart McGrady signed just before the game today - he's only 20, a midfielder who was a regular in the Ayr United first team. There's two other lads I'd like to sign, both from south of the border - one I'd like in straight away the other won't be available until December. But I'll be having another chat with the Chairman about it next week."

As he emerged from the changing room Steve Bowey admitted he was 'devastated'. Bowser who was voted the sponsors man of the match, "We should definitely have taken three points today, to me it's two points dropped we now have a couple of very difficult away games coming up at Dundee and Clyde and we'll have to start picking up points for we've a long hard season ahead."

Mentioning an incident in the first half when he was through one on one with the 'keeper he explained it all happened so quickly but the ball seemed to come off his head and go for a corner.

Bill Goldie
McGrady signs 13th August 2005
Queens captured the signature of ex-Scottish Schoolboys internationalist Stuart McGrady today. The 20 year old midfielder joined Ayr United when only twelve and broke through into the first team squad just over two years ago. Said Stuart, "I was a first team regular and actually played against Queens a few times. I'm looking forward to stepping up a league and I'm sure I'll be happy at Palmerston. David Craig speaks highly of Queens and so too does Paul Burns who like myself is an Ayrshire lad.

Bill Goldie
Chairman's disappointment 12th August 2005
Chairman, David Rae, was still counting the cost of our first round exit from the C.I.S. Cup when he spoke to the 'website' this morning. Said the Chairman, "It will have devasting implications for Queen of the South. That's two years in a row we've gone down at the first hurdle and it's a bitter blow to us all.

"Had we won through we would have had a home game against Ayr United and a good chance of progressing to the lucrative third round where most of the Premier League sides would have been involved. With us finishing fourth in our league last season we were seeded 12th but after being knocked out, Ross County replaced us as the final seed.

"The sponsor's incentive in the C.I.S. Cup is most beneficial and increases for every round and had we made it to the third round and were drawn against Rangers or Celtic at either Ibrox or Parkhead it could have added up to a six-figure sum for us. It's 16 years since we last met one of the 'Old Firm', so the 'law of averages' says we were due one. However, it can't happen now, so we'll just have to wait until the Scottish Cup before our 'pipe-dream, becomes a reality".

The pain of defeat was also etched on the players faces as they left the dressing room at Forthbank and the trip home on the coach was again a sad and silent one. But that's football for you!

Bill Goldie
New badge available 12th August 2005
A new badge is available from the Club Shop tomorrow and features the new Queens strip in superb detail. The cost is £3.00 but get there early as the badges are strictly limited.
Man of the match 12th August 2005
The placings in this weeks man of the match voting saw Richie Barnard take the award with Stephen Payne second and Gary Wood third.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.
Queens V Brechin 11th August 2005
Manager, Iain Scott, is hoping to get Queens back on the victory trail when they play hosts to Brechin City on Saturday. It's one of those games we must take maximum points from to get us off the bottom of the table and back in the league race again.

Said 'Scotty', "I drove all the way up to Glebe Park on Tuesday night to watch them play Partick Thistle and just as I thought, they're a hard-working side--big, strong and physical--and they battle for every ball. And that's what we lacked on Wednesday night at Stirling.

"I still can't believe what happened up there! When our players ran out onto the park I could have 'fed them raw meat', they were like 'wild animals'. But it all went 'pear shaped' after 12 minutes. Even after that we had the bulk of the pressure and plenty of chances to score more than one, but we didn't. It was so frustrating!

"I was hopeful of bringing a midfielder from the Premiership in England 'on board', but that's now 'up in smoke' owing to the financial implications of our exit from the C.I.S. Cup. However, I intend signing Stuart McGrady, the lad from Ayr United, on Saturday. He's only 20 but a versatile midfielder.

"Gary Wood is suspended for one game and will miss Saturday's match with Brechin. Both Brian Reid and John O'Neill will undergo late fitness tests before a decision is made but 'Bowser' came through Wednesday night's clash unscathed. But that was the only bonus to come out of the entire showdown".

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 10th August 2005
Although they fought hard, Queens just didn't recover from the loss of two goals in the opening twelve minutes. After pulling one back they had several chances to get an equaliser but couldn't find the net much to the frustration of the 200 travelling fans.So it's goodbye to the CIS Cup for another year.

Said manager Iain Scott after the game, "I'm very disappointed. We were under a lot of pressure to win tonight and we failed to deliver and it's annoying to go out again at the hands of a team from a lower league. It all started badly for us. Jim Thomson was held up in traffic and only got here twenty-five minutes before kick-off so we didn't put him on from the start of the game. But if you defend as we did early on and miss chances like we did you can't expect to win. If we could have got the equaliser I feel we would have gone on to beat them but we didn't so all credit to Stirling Albion for holding on."

A delighted Allan Moore commented, "Early on I think we played some of the best football I've seen since I came here. We scored two great goals and were really in the driving seat but we let them back into the game and they got a real 'rocket' for that at half-time. However in the second half we defended really well and in the end deserved our victory."

Bill Goldie
Calling Lanzarote 10th August 2005
Starting this week an exiled Queens fan who lives in Lanzarote will be writing for Queens programme. He would be interested to know if there are any other Doonhamer fans among the 6,000 British ex-pats living there. Email us on webmaster@qosfc.com

BLW
Up for the Cup 9th August 2005
Queens could be minus three influential players for the cup clash at Stirling tomorrow night with John O'Neill, Brian Reid and Steve Bowey all 'doubtful'.

Said manager Iain Scott, "It's most disheartening! We commenced the season injury-free and now have a trio of players who might not play and three others nursing minor 'knocks'. Bowser's been getting extensive treatment on his calf strain, Brian Reid's ankle is 'black and blue' from Saturday while John O'Neill is still not 100% fit but we may have to risk him.

"Although Stirling Albion are a division below us we've had them 'watched' and they're a useful side who just missed out on promotion last season. Allan Moore's got them playing nice football and my information is that they should have beaten Partick Thistle at Firhill on Saturday. They also have home advantage, so we'll have to be at our best to get through.

"We all know how important it is for the club and the Chairman's been 'drumming' that into us all for months now. The financial benefits could be immense in future rounds, so we're all aware what's expected of us".

Looking back to the 4-0 drubbing by St Johnstone on Saturday 'Scotty' said, "They're a good side but we made them look even better than they were. After two 4-0 victories, I think we went into the match on 'too much of a high', and the goals conceded were all down to lack of disipline and defensive errors. We 'gifted' them two in the first half which proved a 'killer', and after deciding to change our game plan at half-time we 'lost' Gary Wood and had to change it all round again. Gary's been disiplined for the sending-off. He's knows he was in the wrong and has accepted it".

Nevertheless, the manager insists there's no panic in the ranks and added, "Let's remember that the league is a 'marathon', not a 'sprint'. We lost our opener 1-0 to Ross County last season and finished fourth, and the year prior to that we went down 4-1 up at Perth and ended up in fifth spot. So, as they say, it's not how you start it's how you finish".

Bill Goldie
The Stirling Viewpoint 9th August 2005
Allan Moore, the manager at Forthbank, was 'Up for the Cup' as well. Speaking to the 'Website' on the eve of the game he remarked, "Im really looking forward to this game and testing our strength against a First Division side. Queens lost 4-0 to St Johnstone on Saturday so I'm hoping they might be a wee bit deflated but, despite that result I know full well they're a good side with quality strikers. However, we knocked St Mirren out of the cup this time last year and, although we've a few injury problems after Saturday, we can do the same against Queens.

"Having been a Queen of the South player myself a few years ago, it makes it even more excited to be coming up against people from my former club. I know 'Scotty', 'Wasa' and Kenny Crichton very well; I also keep in touch with big Jim Thomson and Del Lyle is a personal friend of mine. Del was with us here at Stirling after John Connolly released him and he knocked in a lot of vital goals for us, so we'll be keeping a close eye on 'Del Boy' for sure".

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 9th August 2005
The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw Tommy English win the competition with Richie Barnard second and Brian McColligan third.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table starts tonight. Thanks for voting.
More Milk Cup News 4th August 2005
After losing 2-0 to County Armagh yesterday, Queens Under 15s redeemed themselves today by defeating County Fermanagh 1-0 in the Milk Cup tournament in Northern Ireland. They now meet Swindon Town tomorrow in a play-off for 5th/6th place in the Dunluce Trophy.

In today's match the Queens' youngsters were under fire from the start but their defensive trio of Leighfield, Hanley and Rae held firm. Young Ross Hyslop, playing his first game in goal, made two great saves to keep the eager Fermanagh forwards at bay and, against the run of play, Queens took the lead on the 20 minute mark when a Carmichael free-kick found Glen Mitchell who volleyed home.

The goal appeared to spur Queens on and they had several good chances to increase their goal tally--the best being a shot from Rice which clipped the post. In a late surge Fermanagh almost grabbed the equaliser but the Queens' defence stood firm to gain their first victory.

Bill Goldie
Two doubtful for Saints clash 4th August 2005
Queens have two key midfielders listed as 'doubtful' for the opening league match of the season against St Johnstone at Perth on Saturday. Said manager, Iain Scott, today, "Steve Bowey pulled out of training after an hour last night suffering a reaction from the calf strain sustained against Albion Rovers. John O'Neill didn't train at all after tweaking a hamstring on Saturday, so we'll make a decision on them both just prior to kick-off at Perth. We've got at least six games scheduled this month so I'm not prepared to take any risks whatsoever".

Added 'Scotty', "With eight goals in our last two games the lads are 'on a high' at the moment. We've a settled side and performing well. McDiarmid Park has an excellent pitch and we love playing up there and we won 3-1 at Perth in our opening league fixture last season.

"Owen Coyle, their new manager, has a better squad of players than Saints had at this time last year. But they're a lot of new faces and a lot depends on how they blend. We all know it will be a tough one but I would be delighted to come away with another 3-1 victory. However, in this division, a draw is never a bad result away from home, so I wouldn't complain too much at a share of the points".

Bill Goldie
Snippets 4th August 2005
Billy Houliston Lounge Bar
Got top marks in the 'Daily Record' newe fanzine which is incorporated into the paper every Wednesday. To quote:- "No poncy food and the cheapest-ever Magners plus a friendly dog".

Queens on Tour
Remember we need your holiday snaps - good close up shots of fans wearing their Queens tops - sned them to :- QoS Programme, c/o Solway Offset, 11 Catherinefield Industrial Estate, Heathhall, Dumfries, DG1 3PQ.

QoS Badge Collectors
"Wheelbarrow" issue nearly sold out - see the "Badge Man" at Perth on Saturday for the last few.

"History of Queens"
Only thirty left - £15.00 or £17.50 by post. Cheques to Creedon Publications at 11 Catherinefield Industrial Estate, Heathhall, Dumfries, DG1 3PQ.

Paul Shileds
See that Paul Shileds who played a few games for Queens a couple of seasons ago has clinched a £25,000 move to Gillingham after scoring a lot of goals for Forfar last season.

BLW
'Scotty's' opinions 4th August 2005
In an in-depth interview with the 'website' this week manager, Iain Scott, gives his frank opinions on the season ahead and 'runs the rule' over the opposition.
[Dundee]
Dundee: Jim Duffy will be doing his utmost to get them back to the Premier League but it's not always that easy. Just look at Partick Thistle last season! Some sides that come down think it's their divine right to go straight back up again, but this is a tough league and Dundee lost many quality players when they were relegated. They'll require the right attitude and a lot of effort if they are to succeed.
St Mirren: Finished second last season and I know Gus McPherson is desperate to get them back into the top league again, especially when a new stadium is to be built. Gus had brought in a couple of new strikers--one of them, Mark Corcoran, proved a 'right handful' for us last year when he was with Hamilton.
[St Mirren]
[St Johnstone]
St Johnstone: Owen Coyle has also brought in a lot of fresh faces including three new strikers. They're packed with experience and Owen himself knows the First Division 'inside-out'. He has a much better calibre of player than was there last season and he likes his teams to play good football. So it all depends on how they blend.
Hamilton: Have also been spending a lot of money in the close season and I only wish my budget was in their category. They've a new manager in Billy Reid who is very astute and meticulous in his planning. He adjusts his formations and style of play to combat the opposition, works out their weak points and his game plan is to stop them playing to their strengths. It worked for him at Clyde and he's now signed top scorer, Ian Harty. I think they'll be a force to be reckoned with and right up there with the leaders if they can 'get to grips' with their plastic pitch.
[Hamilton]
[Ross County]
Ross County: John Robertson's now in charge up at Dingwall and he knows what it's like to win the First Division as he's already done it with I.C.T. He's got better players on board and I'm sure he'll have them playing a more direct type of football than last season and I'm expecting them to finish in the top half of the table.
Airdrie United: Sandy Stewart has suffered a budget cut and losing players like Gow will be a big blow to him. Nevertheless, he still has Willie McLaren who is always a danger. Sandy's another manager who likes to see his lads playing a passing game and I like him a lot.
[Airdrie United]
[Clyde]
Clyde: A bit of a 'dark horse' in our league this season. They were tipped for relegation last season but left the 'bookies' with 'egg on their face' by ending up third. Again, a new manager in the experienced Graham Roberts who has acquired many new recruits. Much depends on their early season form and whether they'll click or nor with so many new players.
Stranraer: Our South-West rivals are a big side and our chairman informs me they have nine players over 6 feet 1 in. in their squad. I feel they will be a physical side but in Neil Watt they have a successful manager who has brought them right up from Division Three. Paul Walker, on his game, could prove a real 'thorn in the side'. He wanted to sign for us in the close season but financial restrictions wouldn't allow it.
[Stranraer]
[Brechin]
Brechin City: They too are a big, strong side and will be dangerous at 'set-pieces'. Ian Campbell will carry on where his twin brother, Dick, left off making them a hard team to beat, particularly up at Glebe Park. They are very experienced and personally I think both them and Stranraer will stay up despite both having just been promoted.
Queen of the South: And finally ourselves. I know I keep repeating myself but again I must stress it will first and foremost be consolidation. A target of 40 points has been set (10 per quarter) and although Partick Thistle went down with 39 points last season, I still think that 40 will be enough. Of course, I'd like to improve on last season, and I'd be more than happy to finish in third place.

Richie Barnard is playing well in goal and is number one keeper at present. Chris Carr has been brilliant in defence so far and we have strengthened our midfield with John O'Neill returning. John can also play up front and we now have three strikers, four if you include Gary Wood, competing for two places. It all makes for healthy competition and keeps everyone on their toes.


Same again
I feel we have a stronger and more settled squad than this time last year and if we can steer clear of too many injuries I'm confident we will be up there challenging the leaders.
Bill Goldie
It's the 'Buddies' in the Cup 3rd August 2005
Queens will meet St Mirren at Palmerston in the Second Round of the Bell's Challenge Cup which was made at Hampden this afternoon. The tie will take place on Wednesday, 31st August.

Chairman, David Rae, was delighted with the draw and commented, "We couldn't have wished for better. It's at home against a top team who will bring a good support. If it's anything like our last Challenge Cup match against them in the semi-finals three years ago it will be well worth watching. We won 5-3 at Love Street and went on to lift the cup that season.

"It will also ensure us of at least one more home game in the month of August which is good for the club and good for the fans".

Said manager, Iain Scott,"It could have been a lot easier and I would have preferred a club from without our league at this stage of the competition. However, it's at home and that's good!

"St Mirren are an excellent side and I'm looking forward to 'pitting my wits' against Gus McPherson again. One thing for sure, they'll be no complacency in our ranks for this one. So, as they say, bring on the Saints".

Bill Goldie
Stuart McGrady 3rd August 2005
Queens are set to sign ex-Ayr United player, Stuart McGrady, within the next ten days. He's been training with us last week and manager, Iain Scott, describes the 20-year-old as a 'very versatile player'.

Bill Goldie
Milk Cup latest 2nd August 2005
Despite another great performance, a late goal saw Queens' Under 15s go down 1-0 to Everton in the Milk Cup match played in Ballymena this afternoon.

Everton proved to be a much more physical side than the team from Stockholm who Queens met yesterday and although under pressure our youngsters defended well in the first half.

After the interval they came out and had a 'real go' at their famous Merseyside opponents and came close when a header from defender, Duncan Rae, was cleared off the line. Darren Rice was 50-50 with the keeper but couldn't quite make it count, but three minutes from time Queens were stunned by a 'freak' goal. Following a corner a header was going wide of the upright but cannoned off another Everton player to finish in the net.

However, Queens kept fighting to the bitter end and Ryan Adams almost snatched an equaliser in the final minute, but after a mazy run he was denied by a defiant Everton keeper who pulled of a splendid save.

Queens now go into section three and will compete for the Dunluce Trophy. They meet County Armagh at Rugby Park, Coleraine, tomorrow. Kick-off is at 12 noon.

The two other Scottish clubs in our Junior section fared better. Hearts made it into section one and will go on to play for the major award, the Milk Cup, while Hibs go into section two for the B.T. Cup.

The Queens' party would like to thank an avid Queen of the South fan, Alan Alone (who resides in Ballymena) for acting as host for the day. An ex-Queens' favourite there was none other than Graeme Robertson, now with Livingston, who was asking for all at Palmerston.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 310th July 2005
The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw midfield general Stuart Lovell win the competition with Stephen Payne second and Brian McLaughlin third.

All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table starts tonight.
Cup Draw 1st August 2005
The draw for the second round of the Bell's Challenge Cup will take place at Hampden on Wednesday at 2.30 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Milk Cup latest 1st August 2005
Despite a spirited performance, Queens' Under-15s went down 2-0 in their opening match against A.I.K. Stockholm in Balleymoney this afternoon. The Swedes were one of the pre-tournament favourites--a big team with many gifted players.

Queens played well in the first half but A.I.K. netted the vital opening goal in the 46th minute, with practically the last kick of the half. Our local lads came out fighting after the interval, punching 'well above their weight', and both Darren Rice and Daniel Carmichael had net-bound shots cleared off the line.

Although well on top, Queens just couldn't snatch the elusive equaliser and five minutes from time the Swedes broke away to score their second goal.

Daniel Rice, however, was voted 'Man of the Match'. Tomorrow Queens meet Everton in Ballymena--kick-off is at 3.30 p.m.

Highlight of the week to date was the opening parade through the streets of Coleraine city centre. All participatings teams took part and over 30,000 turned out to witness the spectacle.

Bill Goldie
Season review 31st July 2005
Our review of season 2004/05 completes tonight with a look at the statistics behind the year. Many thanks are due to Ewan Lithgow for another superb summary that will always be available online via the 'Previous seasons' link. Click on the link on the right hand side of the page to see the stats.
From the Chairman 31st July 2005
After seven friendly matches, we kick-off the season in earnest this afternoon with the first round of the Bell's Challenge Cup. Generously sponsored by Bell's Whisky, and not only do they sponsor the Challenge Cup but also the S.F.L. All 30 clubs benefit from the latter and it's one deal none of us can afford to lose.

Their Chairman, Lord MacFarlane and his good wife, Lady MacFarlane have proved great ambassadors for the company and they do their best to visit all S.F.L. grounds throughout the course of the season. I've met them on several occasions and they're a real genuine couple who both know a lot about the game.

Our visitors this afternoon are Albion Rovers, and it's not a name we're going to forget in a hurry. Last season, here at Palmerston, they knocked us out of the C.I.S. Cup in the opening round and denied us the opportunity to progress further in a competition that can prove quite profitable in the later rounds. I'm still convinced that defeat coupled with our poor league form at home early on, contributed to our drop in attendancies. Nevertheless, we bid a warm welcome to the fans and directors down from Coatbridge. I hope it's a good game but, by the token, I'm looking for a win this time around.

I'm not going to go into the pre-season matches in any great detail but I feel I must mention last Saturday's 4-0 victory over Premier League, Motherwell. Unfortunately, Motherwell were reduced to ten men which took a bit of the shine off our win, but it was still an excellent performance.

Over the past few weeks I've been taking in quite a few friendly matches and I've actually been to Annan's Galabank Park five times. Apart from our own two friendlies down there I watched Annan v Motherwell, Gretna v Livingston an the final of the Annan annual tournament which saw the homesters well beaten 6-0 by Stranraer.

I must say I was most impressed by the Stair Park side. They're one of the biggest teams I've ever seen but their smalleat player, Paul Walker, turned out to be their star man and scored a 'hat-trick'. So we'll certainly have to be on our toes when we meet them in a few weeks time.

David Rae

Reproduced from Saturday's official programme v Albion Rovers

Bill Goldie
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