LATEST NEWS

For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page. We have also noted that a number of visitors to the site are happy to lift content and reproduce it elsewhere - we do not mind this happening however if you do so then please have the decency to credit the source.

Reserves in action

31st October 2005

The reserves will be in action on Tuesday evening at Gretna as they replay the abandoned match of a couple of weeks back. Kick-off is 7.30pm at Raydale Park.

Man of the match

31st October 2005

The placings in the weekend game's man of the match voting saw Paul Burns win the award with Jim Thomson second and Chris Carr 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.

Temporary appointment

31st October 2005

Following the departure of Iain Scott as manager of Queen of the South, player/coach Stuart Lovell was approached and has agreed to take the role as temporary manager for a few weeks until a permanent appointment is made. Bill Goldie

NEWSFLASH

31st October 2005

Manager Iain Scott was released as Manager of Queen of the South this afternoon following an amicable agreement between both parties. David Rae - Chairman

Ted McMinn

30th October 2005

A press release from Derby County tells us that there will be a very high profile match between Derby and Rangers next year. The details are as follows: Derby County's Pride Park Stadium will host a benefit match for Rams legend Ted McMinn next May. The match, on May 1, will feature a Glasgow Rangers 'Nine-In-A-Row' team against a Derby County select side including Rams heroes and guest star players. Former Derby favourites who have already confirmed they will be ready to pull on a Rams shirt again include Kevin Hector, Peter Shilton, Mark Wright and Roger Davies. Ex-Rams boss Arthur Cox will manage the Derby County side. Ally McCoist will feature for Rangers, alongside a host of players including Brian Laudrup, Andy Goram, Mark Hateley and Richard Gough, who formed part of the historic record-equalling nine-in-a-row Scottish championship side which won consecutive titles from 1988-89 to 1996-97. Forty-three-year-old Ted, known affectionately to Rams fans as the Tin Man, was a popular player during his five-year spell with the club. He made 137 starts with a further 16 appearances as a substitute after joining Derby in February 1988 from Seville, and added 14 goals. Ted has lived in Derby for the past 18 years and now works as a football pundit and co-commentator for BBC Radio Derby. He is currently recovering from a major operation, three weeks ago, which saw the removal of his right leg four inches below the knee. The match will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 1, with a 3pm kick-off. Tickets will be priced at £10 for adults and £5 for supporters aged 16 and under and 60 and over. Derby County chairman John Sleightholme said: "Ted was a hugely popular player during his time with the Rams and we are delighted to be able to host such an event. "Such a game has widespread support from fans and within the club but we felt it appropriate only to progress such an idea after we had sat down to discuss it with Ted. "We were mindful that a period of recovery was required after Ted's operation and we needed to ensure he was supportive of the idea before arrangements were made." Ted said: "I've been touched by the messages of support I have received over the past few months and humbled that such an event is taking place. "I was proud to play for the Rams and the club continues to play a big part in my life so I am honoured that Derby County is willing to help stage this game. "Due to my operation, it is unlikely that I will be able to take on any kind of full-time work in the near future so the planning of this event will give me something to focus on over the coming months." To form his benefit committee, Ted has invited former Derbyshire cricketer and commercial consultant Colin Tunnicliffe (chairman), accountant Bill Williams, Derby County operations director Paul Clouting and joint chair of the Derby County Supporters' Club Toby Sills. Thanks to Queens fan John Johnstone for the information.

Match reaction

29th October 2005

Queens disappointing run continued at Love Street this afternoon when they went down by a rather predictable 2-0 margin to league leaders St Mirren. And what must be really frustrating for manager Iain Scott was the fact that both goals came from badly defended corners delivered by Saints Simon Lappin. The only gratifying news was both Stranraer and Brechin City losing which makes it a 'no change' at the foot of the table. Never the less with Clyde and Airdrie winning, the later most handsomely it looks like we may have to settle for topping our own 'wee league of three' at the bottom. Afterwards Scotty raged at the two goals conceded and stressed, "Before the game we nominated two separate players to 'man mark' their men at corner kicks. But they didn't do their job right, they didn't pick them up, and I've made my feelings known to them. "Apart from the goals Colin Scott didn't have too many saves to make and in the second half we had a couple of good chances and their keeper pulled off an excellent save from Paul Burns. I don't like singling out players but I must mention young Stuart Hill who played really well against tough opponents. His defensive partner Jim Thomson was his usual reliable self and Chris Carr did well in his first game back. But it's obvious that we are still not firing. "There wasn't an awful lot between the two sides today but goals win games and we're not getting them. Life is tough at the moment but we'll keep fighting. "The Nigerian striker we had on trial is back with us next week but Dmitri had a decision to make. Both Kilmarnock and Hearts were interested in him but he's been informed he must show a bit of loyalty to Queens. He's been told 'if he goes, he goes'." Bill Goldie

Special offer shirts

28th October 2005

A very small supply of Queens replica tops from previous seasons has been unearthed in the Club Shop this week and are being offered for sale to the first person that emails and reserves one. There is one extra large home strip as modelled by Steve Bowey with the Positive Response logo on it. There is a large away 'Blounts' strip as well as a small away, a large boys away all as shown on a celebrating Paul Burns and an extra large boys home top as modelled by Willie Gibson. The cost of each top is £10 plus P&P so if you want any one of them then they are the last new strips that we have from these seasons. Email to webmaster@qosfc.com

Positive Response

G R Blount - Away top

G R Blount Pharmacy

Kick-off brought forward to 1.00pm

28th October 2005

Queens and Stranraer have responded quickly to calls from fans for an even earlier kick off for the local derby scheduled for the 12th November. The new revised kick off time is now 1.00pm. Hopefully this will allow people to get away in time to watch the Scotland versus USA friendly that kicks-off at 4.00pm. Bill Goldie

Kick-off brought forward

27th October 2005

Queens and Stranraer have agreed to bring forward the kick-off time of the local derby scheduled for the 12th November to 2.00pm so that the game does not clash with the Scotland versus USA friendly that kicks-off at 4.00pm. Bill Goldie

Brechin aftermath

27th October 2005

Looking back to Tuesday night's match at Brechin manager, Iain Scott confessed, "We could well have been two up before they scored. After their goal we were a bit shaky up to half time but re-grouped in the second half and the goal put us back in the game. Late on they had a couple of chances and Colin Scott pulled off two good saves but it ended up very much end-to-end stuff. "However, looking at the positives!. We couldn't afford to lose and we didn't, it was a better point for us than it was for Brechin and it's never easy to get a result up at Glebe Park. At least the point closes the gap with Stranraer who lost 2-1 to St Mirren at Stair Park. The winner came in 'injury time', so thanks Gus". Bill Goldie

Paisley bound

27th October 2005

Looking forward to Saturday's game at Love Street 'Scotty' added, "They're top of the table and we all know it's going to be a really difficult one. At this moment in time I'd take a point and run. As I've said before, I think St Mirren are the best all-round side in our division and my favourites to go up. They're so solid defensively, but to be fair, I feel St Johnstone have a better attacking force. Just look at them taking five off Hamilton the other night. "We've met the Paisley men twice already this season. Both games were at Palmerston and we lost them both, but only by the odd goal. With them being top of the table they'll be a big crowd at Love Street and a lot of atmosphere, so it won't be a match for faint hearts. We'll probably make one or two changes now we have most of our experienced players back but we'll be 'up for it'. Football's a funny old game at times and if we show the character I know we have, we might just shock them". Bill Goldie

Team News

27th October 2005

Gary Wood will return to the squad after a three match suspension, but Brian Reid and Stuart Lovell are still out injured. Both had scans this week--the club are awaiting news on Stuart but it's been confirmed that Brian has a torn hamstring. Trialist, Dimitri Pronovyeh will again be in the pool and according to the manager he'll be with us for the 'foreseeable future'. Bill Goldie

Man of the match

27th October 2005

The placings in the mideek game's man of the match voting saw Brian McLaughlin win the award with Colin Scott second and Jim Thomson tied for third with Eric Paton. 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.

Ton up for Eric

26th October 2005

Although Queens could only manage a draw at Brechin last night, it was still a special match for Eric Paton who made his 100th appearance for the club. He joined from Clydebank in July 2002 and to date has netted nine goals for us. Only last season Eric signed a new two-year contract as a full-time player which will see him through until 2007. Said Eric, "I had no idea it was my 100th game, but I only wish we could have won. However, we're all confident we can pull clear of the relegation zone and with the support of our fans I'm convinced we will". Asked to choose his most memorable game since coming to Palmerston he opted for the match against Inverness Caley Thistle in October, 2003, which we won 3-2 to go top of the table. And his best goal--the one up at Ross County at the end of last season when he scored from the half-way line.

Eric will be presented with a memento to mark the occasion prior to our next home game against Clyde.

Queens off to Brechin

24th October 2005

Queens make the long trip north to Brechin tomorrow. It could well be described as a 'must win' game but even more important a 'mustn't lose' match. Said manager, Iain Scott, "It's one we're capable of winning. We should have had the game won by half time when they were down at Palmerston earlier in the season, but we couldn't find the net and it finished up goal-less. However, it's a long way to go, especially for the likes of David McNiven who stays just outside Blackpool and also for the lads from the Newcastle area. It's in midweek, and that brings other problems!. I find it hard to believe that these fixtures have been scheduled outwith a Saturday. "Brechin are bottom of the league at present and still looking for their first league win. Their confidence will be a bit low so we'll be after three points. But they have home advantage so we must ensure we don't lose for only three point separate us". Reflecting back to Saturday's match 'Scotty' insisted, "Having watched the video of the game and viewed it on 'Scotsport' on Sunday, I still don't think it was a penalty. Unfortunately it came at a really bad time for us--just after we'd pulled back to level. It was a crucial moment which made it even more frustrating, but having said that St Johnstone were worthy winners.They were a better team than us and had more quality players than we have, so I can't complain at the final result". Bill Goldie

Team News

24th October 2005

Derek Lyle and Chris Carr return to the Queens' squad for the match at Brechin tomorrow night. Gary Wood is of course suspended while Brian Reid and Stuart Lovell are still on the injured list. It is hoped that John O'Neill, who came off injured on Saturday, will play. Said the manager, "John's trouble is actually coming from his back, possibly a disc, but the pain was right down his hip. So we'll decide on the night if he's fit. We need to get important players back into the fray--the young lads who have come in have been brilliant, but experience means so much in this league. "Dimitri should again feature. He did well on Saturday and showed some nice touches but it will really be down to finances whether he is allowed to sign or not". Bill Goldie

Gretna re-match

24th October 2005

The Reserve fixture at Gretna, which was abandoned at half-time two weeks ago, will now take place at Raydale Park on Tuesday, 1st November. Kick-off is at 7.30 p.m. Bill Goldie

Man of the match

24th October 2005

The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw goal scorer Brian McLaughlin win the award with Colin Scott second and Jim Thomson 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.

Chairman's message

23rd October 2005

Paul Burns' last minute winner against Airdrie last Saturday could well prove to be our 'most important goal of the season'. Paul took the chance really well and by the joyous celebrations that followed everyone could see how much it meant to the players themselves. We did have several scoring opportunities in the first half and when the keeper made a brilliant save from Eric Paton in the second half, I felt it just wasn't going to be our day again. However, the goal did come in the final minute--so better late than never!. I must compliment the Airdrie directors, for at the end of the game each and every one of them congratulated us although they must have been really down. We've now moved off the bottom of the table, so I sincerely hope it will now be 'onwards and upwards'. It was also heartening to see an increase in the attendance after my plea in the 'Standard' last week. It was only about 250 more than the Hamilton game, but it's a step in the right direction. Thank you for your support. On Sunday afternoon I went to Palmerston to watch our young lads play Annan Athletic in the S.F.A. Youth Cup. I was very impressed with what I saw, and although we eventually won 6-1, it was close up to the last half hour. All of our boys played well but two who were really outstanding were Stuart McColm, who scored a 'hat-trick' and Jack Steele, who was 'Man of the Match'. They have now been rewarded with an away tie against Celtic in the third round and I'm sure they'll all be looking forward to that. I only wish the big team could land the same draw in the Scottish Cup come January. With winter fast approaching, I'm glad to report that the new pitch at King George V is now ready. It's been a lot of work but I've had a look at it and it's a big improvement on the previous surface which was getting a 'bit worse for wear'. As a club we have contributed to the cost and this will allow Queen of the South to make use of the new facility which should benefit both the first team players and the youths when the inclement weather takes it's toll. Today we welcome the directors and players of St Johnstone F.C. to Palmerston. Their Chairman, Geoff Brown, is a good friend of mine and I think their manager, Owen Coyle must be one of the most respected professionals in Scottish football. I always like to see St Johnstone do well--but not this afternoon of course. A warm welcome also to our sponsors here today and to our young match-day mascots. Hope you all enjoy the game. David Rae From official programme 22-10-05 Bill Goldie

Match reaction

22nd October 2005

Queens went down by three goals to one this afternoon to a slick and impressive St Johnstone outfit who must rate as one of the favourites for promotion. Despite losing an early goal Queens hit back when sponsors Man of the Match Brian McLaughlin slid the ball home. But their joy was short lived for only three minutes later they conceded a penalty and the resultant goal proved to be crucial. Said manager Iain Scott, "They're a very good side but I've always said that. They were a better team than we were and passed the ball about really well. After losing that early goal we got ourselves back into the match with a fantastic equaliser. But we went 2-1 down to a controversial penalty and it was a bad time to lose it. Although I can't criticise referees in my mind it was a 'blatant dive'. We lost a third goal when we were pushing forward for the equaliser but there's no denying they are a class side. "We've lost three times this season at Palmerston - to St Mirren, Hamilton and now St Johnstone - in my opinion the three best sides in the division." On the Queens goal Brian McLaughlin commented, "It was a great ball from Paul Burns and I just managed to get my toe to it" and on the penalty decision he explained, "I had both feet on the ground and he more or less fell over them. I didn't think it was a penalty." Ukrainian trialist Dimitri Pronovyeh was pleased to get a decent run out and said, "It was a good game but we gave away bad goals. We missed too many chances but I'm looking forward to Tuesday night now." On the substitution of John O'Neill the diagnosis at present can be no more specific than a hip injury, further investigation will be required. Bill Goldie

Show Racism the Red Card

21st October 2005

"Show Racism the Red Card" will again be featured at all football grounds in Scotland tomorrow. At Palmerston players from both Queen of the South and St Johnstone will hold up cards in the centre circle prior to kick-off and this will be accompanied by a public address announcement. Bill Goldie

Sports Injury Clinic

20th October 2005

Just to clarify for anyone in any doubt, the new Sports Injury Clinic at Palmerston is operated by Queens for the direct benefit of the club. So you can now benefit from treatment provided by the region's top sports physiotherapist and provide another income stream for the club.

Team News

20th October 2005

Following suspension, Steve Bowey returns to the squad for Saturday's home match against St Johnstone. Gary Wood, however, will miss out since he has two more games suspension to serve. Brian Reid, Stuart Lovell and Chris Carr are still on the injured list and all three are unavailable. Derek Lyle, who came on as a substitute against Airdrie is included in the squad and so too is Ukrainian 'trialist', Dimitri Pronovyeh. Said manager, Iain Scott, "Dimitri had only eight minutes on the field on Saturday but he'll almost certainly feature at some stage this weekend. I know full well what he can do at training, but we've still got two matches to check him out in a proper game before making our minds up". Scott Robertson and Stuart Hill are also included in the pool and the manager was very pleased at their contribution against Airdrie. Queens were unable to train last night but had a full session at a local park today. Added 'Scotty', "Most of the lads were able to get time off work so we had an excellent work-out. It was daylight and on grass, which suited us fine". Bill Goldie

Willie Gibson

20th October 2005

Willie Gibson's impressive form of late has been attracting the attention of several clubs from both sides of the border. Leeds United have already had him 'watched' several times and are believed to be monitoring him on a match-to-match basis. Two other clubs from the English Championship League (one of them being Sheffield Wednesday) have also show interest along with another couple of Scottish sides, one from the Premier League and the other from our own division.

Said Chairman, David Rae, this afternoon. "Willie has been playing exceptionally well this season, so it's only natural that other clubs are interested in him. I'd be sorry to see Willie go but we'd never stand in his way. If he, himself, wanted to move and the deal was right for the club, we'd certainly consider it". Bill Goldie

Sports Injury Clinic

18th October 2005

Queens have set up a new Sports Injury Clinic at Palmerston where you can get all your sporting related strains and sprains attended to by the 'healing hands' of Kenny Crichton. To book a session call 01387 254 853. The clinic will be available on a Monday, 9am - 3.30pm, Wednesday 9am - 1pm and Friday 9am - 1pm.

Saints at Palmerston

18th October 2005

St Johnstone are the visitors to Palmerston this Saturday and Iain Scott is looking for more points to add the three gained against Airdrie last Saturday. Said the manager today, "We don't fear anyone at home and we had a good record against St Johnstone in the league last season--losing only once in four games. They did beat us 4-0 at Perth in early season but we conceded two sloppy goals and had Gary Wood sent off. Owen Coyle has added a lot of good players to his squad since he took over, Stephen Milne, Mark Campbell and big Kevin James, but I still think his best signing has been Darren Sheridan. He's a 'winner' and makes the side 'tick'. "Our win over Airdrie took us off the bottom of the table and has been a great boost to us all, but we'll just take it one game at a time and won't get carried away. Football's all about goals and Paul Burns took his really well on Saturday. He hadn't much room to work with but got his shot on target". At the start of the season the manager set a target of ten points per quarter. The first quarter is now up with only six points on the board. 'Are you worried'?. We asked him. "No, not at all was the answer. There's a long, long way to go--27 games to be precise--and there's plenty of time to catch up. In our first season in Division One we had only eight points at this stage, but we fought back to finish fifth and I feel we're still capable of that". On the subject of the Ukrainian 'trialist', Dimitri Pronovyeh, 'Scotty' said, "He was only on for eight minutes against Airdrie and set up the winning goal. I'm impressed so far but need to see more of him. We were informed today that a 'trialist' can play three games before a decision has to be made on his future--either he can be signed or released. The 'friendly' match at Annan and the Reserve fixture at Gretna didn't count, so that leaves us two more games to run the rule over him. From what I hear the fans were full of praise for Dimitri, but I must stress that a striker is still our main priority. However, we'll take it one step at a time". Bill Goldie

Man of the match

17th October 2005

The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw wing wizard Willie Gibson win the award with Jim Thomson second and Stuart Hill 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.

Youths to face Celtic

17th October 2005

Queens youth side have been drawn to face Celtic in the 3rd round of the Scottish Youth Cup. The tie is expected to take place at Parkhead on the 13th November. Hopefully the lads will be able to emulate the feat of the class of 85/86 and be able to beat the Celts on their own patch as those lads did. Bill Goldie

Chairmans Message

17th October 2005

Unfortunately, we're still awaiting our first league win of the season, but we were only six minutes away from it at Dingwall a fortnight ago. The game ended in a 1-1 draw but what I will say--it was the most courageous performance I've witnessed from a Queens' team for a long time. Every player gave their all, even when we were down to nine men, and I was immensely proud of them. Like so many others I felt the second yellow card handed out to Gary Wood was a harsh decision. After discussing it with the manager I personally contacted the S.F.A. at Hampden but was told, 'You can only appeal against a red card not yellow ones. So, alas, end of story. Against Hamilton, the week previous, we were unlucky to lose 2-1. They were the better team in the first half but once we changed to our normal 4-4-2 formation at half-time we more than matched them and the Hamilton directors all said they were very glad to be going back up the road with all three points. On the Sunday following the Hamilton game there was an 'Open Day' at Palmerston to allow the public to see 'behind the scenes' at the club. I was delighted to hear that well over 200 attended and if reports are correct, a good time was had by all. I would like to think that some of them might come along today to support us. It's many years ago since we started the season without a league win in eight games. It was actually 1937, the year I was born!. But we recovered and beat Rangers 3-2 at Ibrox in the last match to remain in Division 'A'. If we could do it then, we can do it now, but I wouldn't like it to be just as tight as that. Much has been written regarding the sports psychologist at Palmerston. I realise that it's all 'part and parcel' of modern sport, but personally I'm a bit sceptical about it all or perhaps I'm just old fashioned. On hindsight it would probably have been wiser to keep it as a private matter within the club, but now I think it's time to let the issue 'die a natural death!. Today Airdrie United are our visitors to Palmerston and I look forward to meeting their chairman, Jim Ballantyne, once again. He is a very colourful character and we've had many an enjoyable chat at S.F.L. meetings during the past year. A warm welcome also to all our sponsors and our young mascots present at the match this afternoon. David Rae From the matchday programme 15.10.05 versus Airdrie United

Annan hit for six

16th October 2005

In the Scottish Youth Cup at Palmerston this afternoon Queens beat Annan Athletic 6-1. The visitors actually scored first netting from the penalty spot in the tenth minute but Queens equalised before half time when Stuart McColm cooly lobbed the keeper. Queens went further into all out attack in the second half. Martin Cunliffe made it 2-1 with a great volley then McColm hit the goal of the game with a tremendous strike from thirty yards out. A neat pass from Jack Steele, the man of the match, saw McColm complete his hat-trick and in the final ten minutes came two more counters. Steele himself hit goal number five following a Colin Carnochan cut-back and after a fine three man move Carnochan completed the scoring following good work by Kevin McCarron. Bill Goldie

Match reaction

15th October 2005

A goal in injury time saw Queens notch their first league victory of the season against Airdrie United at Palmerston this afternoon. The joy and relief was there for all to see as manager Iain Scott leapt fully three feet in the air with arms outstretched as Paul Burns' shot hit the back of the net. The three points now take Queens off the foot of the table and also closed the gap on Stranraer and Clyde who both drew. Said a delighted Scotty after the match. "If you're going to score the winning goal the that's the time to do it. And all of a sudden things don't look quite so black. We should have been at least two up at half-time however. Willie Gibson was clean through with only the keeper to beat but failed to finish after an excellent run, then Brian McLaughlin had a shot blocked on the line. "At half-time I told the lads to 'keep on doing what they're doing' and a goal will come. It did come, but very late and the look of elation on all the lads faces was a joy to see. I felt the young players did well and our trialist Dimitri Pronovych did some sterling work to lay on the goal for Paul Burns who 'kept his head' and took the chance well. "Against ten men things sometimes go for you but sometimes it can make it more difficult. Before the game there was no lack of confidence in the dressing room and in the end it turned out to be three really valuable points for us." Man of the match Paul Burns was also a 'happy chappy' and said, "It must be my most important goal I've scored for Queens. Dimitri laid the ball on for me and I just slotted it past the keeper. I was almost crushed to death in the scrum that followed but it was a massive win for us all. We battled well and in the end I think we thoroughly deserved the three points." On the other hand Airdrie United gaffer Sandy Stewart was a bit downcast. "I didn't think we were under any real pressure", he stated, "but to lose a goal so late is hard to take, if we'd won today we'd have been nine points clear of Queens, now we're only three points in front of them and they have a game in hand. That's how tight this league is - it's really a case of 'dog eat dog'." Bill Goldie

Programme Exclusives

14th October 2005

Look out in the Airdrie programme tomorrow for an exclusive interview with Big (Sheep Heid) Sean O'Connor - great to hear that he is fighting fit again! Also tomorrow there are new A4 leaflets at the Club Shop showing what they have on offer. BLW

It's that time again!

13th October 2005

This Saturday will see the Club Shop at Palmerston unveil the new 2005 Queen of the South Christmas Card. 'Impress' your family with your devotion to Queens and send them all QoS cards this year. You could also pop into Gems in the High Street and purchase a watch or pendant that bears the Queens crest.

Youthful squad for Saturday

13th October 2005

Queens are hard hit by injuries and suspensions prior to the crucial home game against Airdrie United on Saturday. Said manager, Iain Scott, "We all know it's a big game and we'll be out to take three points, but it will certainly be a youthful squad with seven first team regulars possibly sidelined. Nevertheless it will give some of our young lads the opportunity to shine, and with youngsters on the park the crowd often get behind them more. "We've five home games in our next eight fixtures and over the coming month we play all four clubs immediately above us in the table. Three of those four are at Palmerston, so with home advantage it's all up to ourselves now. "Gary Wood and 'Bowser' are both suspended while Brian Reid, Stuart Lovell and Chris Carr are still on the injured list. Add to that Del Lyle--although he played 45 minutes at Gretna in midweek, he's still a bit away from full match fitness. Eric Paton has a groin strain and is 'doubtful' but it's better news on Willie Gibson. We thought he'd broken his arm but the X-ray came back today and he's got the 'all clear'. Nothing's broken so we're hoping he'll play, and Colin Scott is also O.K. now. We'll again have the Ukrainian 'trialist', Dimitri Pronovyeh, in the squad. He played well at Gretna on Tuesday night but we still want to see more of him. "The referee was right to start the game at Raydale Park for the pitch was playable at the time, however, some of his decisions left a lot to be desired. The standard of refereeing in the First Division this season has been excellent but I've been disappointed at the standard in the Reserve League. Although we only got half a game played I was delighted at the attitude of Rowan Alexander and his Gretna players. They came out to play 'football', and that's what the game's all about". Bill Goldie

Half time shoot-out

12th October 2005

This Saturday will see school children from Castle Douglas and Mouswald primary schools taking to the pitch at Palmerston in the ten second shoot-out. Make sure that the kids enjoy their day out and want to come back by giving them your full support.

Reserves at Gretna

11th October 2005

The Gretna versus Queen of the South reserve league match at Raydale Park was abandoned at half-time owing to a waterlogged pitch. Gretna were leading 1-0 at the time with a goal in the twentieth minute but the referee rightly called a halt after forty five minutes. First team men in the Queens line up were Richie Barnard, Steve Bowey, Brian McLaughlin, Derek Lyle and Stuart Hill. Bill Goldie

Willie Hunter

11th October 2005

As part of the "Where Are They Now?" series, I had the pleasure to meet ex-Queens boss Willie Hunter today. Willie served as manager for a relatively short period in 1978-79 season and, like most ex-Queens men, you could not meet a nicer guy. In his time at the club, Willie was keen to focus on local Youth talent and, sadly, did not get the time needed to build a Youth set-up. However, he mentioned a number of talented youngsters that he had available to him at the time. These included under 21 international Ian Mitchell, George Cloy [who of course gave great service to the club], Rowan Alexander and two lads he made special mention of....Billy Hewitson who he rated very highly and Robin Carson.

Billy is of course now a director of the club and you may be aware that Robin is also a regular attender at Queens games. He reckoned that Robin really had a great talent - the potential to be the 'next Stanley Matthews'! Oh, what might have been.... Semi-retired, Willie played the game at the highest level and won three full caps for Scotland during his time with Motherwell. He is becoming something of a prolific author and has written several books of football anecdotes, all proceeds going to St Columba's hospice in Edinburgh. If anyone would like to purchase a copy of two of his most recent books - "Look Back in Amber" [£6.95 + p&p] and "We Are The Champions" [£5.95 + p&p] - they can write to Willie at 124/5 Alnwickhill Road, Edinburgh, EH16 6NQ or contact me at colin_n_rutherford@yahoo.co.uk and I will organise. Colin Rutherford

Reserves at Gretna

10th October 2005

Queens' two suspended players, Steve Bowey and Gary Wood could feature in tomorrow night's reserve fixture at Gretna. Said manager, Iain Scott, "We've checked it out with the S.F.A. and although they're both suspended they can play in Reserve matches. We'll also have the Ukrainian midfielder, Dimitri Pronovyeh, and the young striker from Newcastle in the side again, but the remainder will probably be young lads. "Although it's Gretna we'll be treating it like any other reserve match. It's a fitness progression for the young players and gives them the opportunity to blend in with the more seasoned professionals. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm. "At Annan on Saturday I was impressed with several of the younger ones, in particular Scott Robertson, who had what appeared to be a perfectly good goal chalked off and also 16-year-old Stuart McColm. Stuart scored two of our goals and has a bright future ahead of him. He's over six feet and still growing which is another big advantage. We tried to get him on our 'Fit for Purpose' programme but he's a clever lad and opted to continue with his studies. However, he plays for our Under-17 side and sometimes turns out for the Reserves". Bill Goldie

Queens at Annan

7th October 2005

Six injured players, Derek Lyle, Brian Reid, Stuart Lovell, Chris Carr, Steve Bowey and keeper, Colin Scott will be missing from the Queens' squad who travel to play Annan Athletic in a friendly at Galabank tomorrow. Kick-off is at 1.00 pm. The Ukrainian player, Dimitri Pronovyeh, will start as a 'trialist' and will, no doubt, be all out to impress manager, Iain Scott. Two other 'trialists', a striker and a midfielder, both from the Newcastle area are also expected to start. Unfortunately the Nigerian lad is returning home until his hamstring injury improves but 'Scotty' insists, "He is still very much in our plans and in that short spell at Dingwall his pace really impressed me. He's already had some intensive treatment from our physio, Kenny Crichton, but hamstring injuries take time". Meanwhile, the 'flying winger' from Newcastle United, Alan O'Brien, who Queens were 'chasing' a few weeks ago has signed a one month loan deal with Carlisle United and scored their only goal in the 3-1 home defeat by Bristol Rovers last Saturday. "That was another disappointment for us" groaned the manager. "Tommy Craig at Newcastle phoned me three weeks ago and said Alan was available on loan if we still wanted him. But since we're a Scottish club the rules wouldn't allow it, so 'red tape' made it impossible for him to come to Palmerston on loan which is a great shame". Bill Goldie

Suspensions

7th October 2005

News came through to Palmerston this morning regarding Steve Bowey and Gary Wood, the two players 'red-carded' at Dingwall on Saturday. As expected, 'Bowser' received an automatic one match ban and will miss the Airdrie game, however, the news is worse for Gary Wood who was sent off following two yellow cards. Gary has been given a three match ban meaning he'll miss the games against Airdrie, St Johnstone and Brechin City. Rather harsh considering the circumstances!. Bill Goldie

U19's game

6th October 2005

Queen of the South Under 19's will play a friendly match against St Cuthbert Wanderers at St Mary's Park, Kirkcudbright on Friday night. Kick off is 7.30pm. This is in preparation for their Scottish Youth Cup tie against Annan Athletic which is due to take place at Palmerston a week on Sunday (October 16th). Kick off is at 2.00pm. Bill Goldie

Club Shop Update

4th October 2005

The new 'Proud to be a Doonhamer' badge is still available from the club shop and the usual outlets priced £3.00. As with the previous new kit badge, of which only the last few remain, this is a strictly limited edition. Both badges are pictured below. Actual size of strip badge 20mm x 25mm and of round badge 25mm dia max. GC

New button badges available

4th October 2005

The new button badges are still available from the Club Shop at Palmerston - featuring your favourite players. You can buy one for £1 or all eighteen for £15.

Not many left

4th October 2005

The book, "The Queens - 1919-2004", has now almost sold out with only eight copies left at the publishers. Send your cheque for £17.50 to cover the cost of the book and post/packing to Creedon Publications, 11 Catherinefield Industrial Estate, Dumfries, DG1 3PQ. Or alternatively collect one yourself from Solway Offset for £15.

Please note

3rd October 2005

All fans should note that the Reserve fixture against Gretna at Raydale Park, scheduled for tomorrow night, will now take place next Tuesday night (11th October). Kick-off is at 7.30 pm. The friendly match, away to Annan Athletic on Saturday, will kick-off at 1.00 pm. Bill Goldie

'Scotty' still in buoyant' mood

3rd October 2005

Manager, Iain Scott, confessed he was happy with a point against Ross County on Saturday. Talking to the 'Website' this morning 'Scotty' said, "They're top of the league, they're the only side unbeaten in our division this season and it's a heck of a long journey up there, so no side would complain leaving Dingwall with a point. But having said that, we were only six minutes away from beating them, and if we had managed to keep our full complement of players on the park, I'm convinced we would have held out for the win. "The referee must have played about eight minutes of 'injury time', although he claimed it was only two. Even their chairman and their manager, John Robertson, admitted the decisions went their way--so taking everything into consideration, I think we did exceptionally well to get the draw. In my mind every Queens' player on Saturday was a hero but I make no excuses for singling out Colin Scott. He made a string of excellent saves and two of them in the first half were 'international class'. That's two goals in two games now for John O'Neill who took the opener really well. He was very brave for he knew he was going to get a head-butt in the face but didn't draw back. "For a change we got a lucky break with Willie Gibson's cross cannoning off a defender and falling just right for John--but it was still a great header. A big plus factor for us was scoring that all-important first goal and that's what we'll have to try and do in the weeks ahead. Four of our next six fixtures are at home so it's up to ourselves! One of the away matches is up at Brechin in mid-week, and it's vital that we beat the four sides just above us in the table. "The top five are all clubs who have spent big money to strengthen their squads, while the bottom five comprises the three part-time teams along with Airdrie and Clyde. So our initial objective is to top our own small league of five and progress from there. "We commenced the season with high expectations following last season's fourth place finish, but after a bad start we now feel we've 'turned the corner' after the draw at Stranraer. Everyone in the dressing-room is 100% confident we can pull it around and the word 'relegation' is never mentioned". Bill Goldie

Two Red Cards

3rd October 2005

Regarding the two 'sendings off' the manager stressed, "I didn't see the incident which led to 'Bowser's' dismissal, so I can't really comment on it. But 'Bowser' always plays with a lot of passion and probably it was all to do with frustration boiling over at losing the late goal. As far as Gary Wood's concerned I'm angry and considering an appeal against the second yellow card. I'm going to speak to the chairman about it, for none of us saw Gary doing anything wrong". Bill Goldie

Nigerian Trialist

3rd October 2005

"Although he was only on the field for about five minutes he still did enough to convince me that he might just be the right man for the job" said 'Scotty'. "He had two runs and the pace was there for all to see. Unfortunately his hamstring went and he had to come off and he was very disappointed. He's still with us , however, and as I speak I'm on my way to see him now. We need to know the extent of the injury and ensure it's nothing too permanent or one that's likely to recur, before we take the matter any further. But one thing's for sure! The treatment tables at Palmerston will be busy at training tonight and so too will be our physio, Kenny Crichton, with Brian Reid, Chris Carr, Stuart Lovell, Del Lyle and the Nigerian lad all needing attention". Bill Goldie

Man of the match

3rd October 2005

The placings in this weekends man of the match voting saw Colin Scott win the award with Jim Thomson second and a tie for third between Eric Paton and John O'Neill. 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.

Queen of the South 12's

2nd October 2005

The Queen of the South 12's teams took on Dumbarton at the Everholm in Annan today and enjoyed a good competitive series of matches that gave the side an excellent run out. Back row, left to right - Will Andrews, Ryan Dawson, Tom Irving, Cole Rogerson, Duncan Orr, Josh Todd, Jordan Muirhead, Denny Johnstone. Front row, left to right - Steven Kwok, Robbie Simpson, Lewis Dunn, Nathan Hutton, Ross Mawson, Blair Douggan, Jake Weallens, Robert Service. Also in the photograph are Rob Weallans from sponsor Franklin Steel and Dave Hutton - Coach

Match reaction

1st October 2005

Before the match I was told by a friend, "Don't worry, Queens never lose when the Rood Fair is in town." Although the prediction was accurate I still had mixed feelings as Queens fought tooth and nail to hold on to their slender one goal lead. Even the pundits on West Sound were left with 'egg on their faces' as they were less than complimentary to John O'Neill following his pre-match interview. Jonjo gave Queens a first half lead with a headed goal and despite being reduced to ten men with Gary Wood sent off they held out until the eighty third minute before Ross County scored the equaliser which broke the hearts of the staunch band of Queens fans who had made the long trip north. But the drama didn't stop there as Steve Bowey was red-carded following the equalising goal and our supporters had to endure seven minutes of 'hell' before the final whistle finally sounded. "Earlier in the match both Brian Reid and the young Nigerian trialist who had come on as sub for the stopper, left the field with injuries leaving Queens with big problems for their next match at home to Airdrie United in a fortnight's time - the first of three home games in the space of four weeks. In normal circumstances fans would probably have accepted a point at Dingwall but what a bonus the three points would have been. Said Chairman David Rae, "Our lads played a helluva game today, they gave 100% commitment and total effort throughout. Every one of them put in an enormous shift, there were no failures and I was immensely proud of them. If we continue to play like that we will soon be away from the foot of the table." One avid Queens fan who missed today's game was 'Dalbeattie Doonhamer' Gordon Harper, it was the first Queens game he had missed in three years but he had a valid excuse - he was looking after his baby daughter. Bill Goldie

Archie Who?

30th September 2005

We have been asked on numerous occasions how Stuart Lovell got the nickname 'Archie!. So Stuart himself explained, "As a young player with Reading my coach was Bobby Williams. When I said my name was Lovell he went on at great lengths and joked about a player he knew at Bristol who was called Archie Lovell. Bobby was a real character and described this player as 'the worst footballer he'd ever seen'. He happened to be a winger, the same as I was at that time, so he christened me 'Archie', and it stuck all the years I was at Reading. "When I moved north to Hibs I though I'd 'lose' the nickname, but on my first day at Easter Road, Alex McLeish took me out on the park and introduced me to my new team-mates as 'Archie', and the name's been with me ever since". Bill Goldie

Charity Run

30th September 2005

It has been requested by the club that we give a special charity event, the 5K Run, a mention on the Official Website. This is to take place at the Dock Park, Dumfries, on Sunday, 30th October and will include a 2K Run for Children. Organised by the Anthony Nolan Trust which has the slogan 'Taking back lives from leukemia, it is a very worthwhile cause and entry forms can be collected from the Palmerston Office or phone direct to 01560 600870. Bill Goldie

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