LATEST NEWS
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

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F.A.O. Robert Payne 31st March 2006
Let's spare a thought for veteran Queens' fan Robert Payne who's hardy missed a home game this season. A fortnight ago he jetted off to South Africa for a two month's holiday so he's missing all the excitement now. Here's hoping you keep up with all the results in Johannesburg, Robert.

Bill Goldie
Reserve Fixture 31st March 2006
Queens will meet Stenhousemuir in a Reserve match at Palmerston on Monday night. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm. Admission as per usual.

Bill Goldie
Team News 30th March 2006
Ryan McStay is the only real worry for Saturday's match against Ross County. The midfielder wasn't at training tonight owing to a sickness bug and it will be a late decision whether he plays or not. But apart from that the news is all good. Willie Gibson trained this evening and it's hoped he'll be fit. Sean O'Connor is again in the squad and expected he'll feature at some stage of the game. Jim Thomson appears to have recovered from his head knock at Hamilton and is also expected to play. Jim has been an ever present since the CIS cup tie as Stirling back in August and the last thing he'll want is to miss a game with his 250th appearance due against St Johnstone in a fortnights time.

Bill Goldie
Shopping specials 30th March 2006
The Queen of the South Club Shop have some special offers available at the moment:

All replica tops - £20 (Only childrens sizes available)
Tracksuits - £45
Winter Jackets - £40
Rain Jackets - £30
Selection of sizes of Junior Blues T shirts from this season and last £2 each or 2 for £3.

Also the Club Shop is also offering a personalised Queen of the South mug with your choice of photograph on it for £10.

Call in at the Club Shop on Saturday.
In the Wars 29th March 2006
It will take more than a bash on the head to keep 'Captain Courageous', Jim Thomson out of the Queens' team for long. Jim was assisted from the field at Hamilton on Saturday after only 25 minutes with blood pouring from a head wound following a clash with Accies', Brian Wake. However, our skipper insists, "I was caught by a flying elbow but I don't think it was intentional--it was more of an accident but it was still the end of the game for me."

He's really been in the wars of late as only a week earlier Jim suffered a broken nose and a burst lip courtesy of Stranraer's Michael Moore. "Big Michael doesn't take prisoners" said Jim "And every time we come up against each other, the aerial tussles are a real battle. But football's a man's game so you've got to take the 'rough with the smooth'.

Watching for those elbows
"When I left the field with Kenny Crichton for treatment it couldn't have been at a worse place--right in front of the Stranraer contingent. We got some right 'stick' and some choice words were hurled at us. But I'd just like to remind the Stranraer fans that my mother and father were married when I was born."

But the recent lacerations have been nothing compared to J.T.s worst injury and he recalls, "It happened a few years ago in a match against Stenhousemuir up at Ochilview and on this occasion it was no accident. It was Ian Ferguson who caught me and fractured my cheekbone. I had to get two metal plates inserted and the first of those is actually only coming out when the season ends in May. I was out for months and I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

"However, even after all the injuries I'm still the nicest-looking player at Palmerston in spite of what Del Lyle and Eric Paton claim" he joked.

Jim is now fast approaching his 250th appearance in a Queens' jersey and fully intends ending his playing career at Palmerston. "I've still another season of my present contract to serve but after that, who knows?. I'd like to carry on playing for as long as I can but there comes a time when every footballer has to 'hang up his boots'. When that day comes I'd love to get involved in the coaching side of the game and, if possible, with Queen of the South.

He makes no secret of the love he has for the club and the fans must also love him. In 1998 and again last year he was voted 'Player of the Year' and must be well in the running for this season's award as well.

Jim speaks very highly of new manager, Ian McCall and admits, "What the gaffer's achieved since he took over in November is absolutely outstanding. We were well adrift at the foot of the table and in a few short months he's turned it around. He's a great motivator but he doesn't stand any nonsense and any player who steps out of line is soon put in his place.

"His training methods are different but we're a much fitter team now and, for a part-time club we're as fit as any side in the First Division. Of course, Ian's a 'Doonhamer' himself and supported Queens as a youngster and you can see that his love for them still shines through.

"In the January 'window' he brought in a lot of good players and I feel one of his best moves was bringing Andy Aitken back from Gretna. Like myself, Andy is 'Queen of the South through and through' and I know for a fact he was ecstatic to return to Palmerston. Both Stuart Lovell and I are playing much better since Andy's return for we know that if we miss a tackle he's always there to 'mop up'.

"We're now level with Stranraer going into the 'home stretch' and all the lads are confident we can stay up. But the manager keeps drumming into us that nothing's certain until we pass that 'winning post'. I think one of the main reasons why we've managed to turn it around has been the backing of the fans. During two spells I've spent seven years with Queens and we've always had a great support but I feel this season has been one of the best ever, so long may it continue."

Bill Goldie
NO SMOKING 29th March 2006
The National 'No Smoking' ban in public places officially came into force on Sunday and it has been decided that there will be no smoking allowed at Palmerston Park. Smoking has never been allowed in the Main Stand because of it's wooden structure but, as from Saturday, the whole stadium will now be a 'No Smoking' area.
Tan Man Ton 29th March 2006
If selected Derek (Tan Man) Lyle could make his 100th Queens start this week v. Ross County. Steve (Bowser) Bowey is also due to make his 150th start on Saturday.

BLW - QoS Programme
Exclusive 29th March 2006
Look out for an exclusive interview with one of the all-time great Queens players in the programme this week - the one and only wee Jim Donald.

BLW - QoS Programme
We ain't done nothing yet 28th March 2006
Despite collecting 17 points from our last 8 games and unbeaten at home since November, Ian McCall issued a warning to all at Palmerston when he insisted, "We ain't done nothing yet. Until we ensure First Division status for next season I won't be content and there's still a lot of work to do".

Added Ian, who must be a strong contender for a second successive 'Manager of the Month' award, "We've now five games left but we fear no-one and the lads have now got into the habit of winning. We're capable of winning every one of those five games and that would give us 42 points and no club in this division have gone down with a total like that". Partick were actually relegated with 39 points last season but that was exceptional, with 36 points being the highest prior to that.

However the manager stressed, "We can't be complacent, for with Stranraer still fighting for their lives we can afford very few slip-ups. It's up to us to go out and win games for it would be criminal to relax and wait for Stranraer dropping points. But I assure you--that won't happen!. Hamilton did us a big favour tonight by beating them 1-0 at New Douglas Park and we're now level on both points and games played. So, there's everything to play for now.

"On Saturday we meet Ross County, the last team to beat us at home. It's the only match I've lost since coming to Palmerston and it should never have happened. It was probably the best we've played all season and we should have had it all wrapped up by half time. A realistic score should have been about 4-1 for us, but after leading 2-1 late in the game they hit us with two 'sucker punches' and we ended up losing, 3-2. How we could have done with those three extra points at this moment in time!

"Nevertheless, Ross County are a good side with good players and they are a hard team to beat. They have one of the best away records in our division having lost only three of their 15 league games and are well on target to finish in the top four.

"So I hope all Queens' fans will be in good voice on Saturday. I'm not being patronising, myself and all the players genuinely appreciate the support which has been fantastic in recent weeks. Remember, I was a Queen of the South supporter for many years and stood on the terracing in rain, hail, sleet and snow and no-one cheered louder when Queens scored".

Bill Goldie
The final fixtures 28th March 2006
After tonight's game at Hamilton, both Queens and Stranraer have five matches left. Stranraer may be ahead on goal average but Queens have the advantage of having three home fixtures while Stranraer have only two.

Here's how the fixture card looks--

April 1st--Queens v Ross County (h), Stranraer v St Johnstone (a)

April 8th--Queens v Airdrie (a), Stranraer v Dundee (h)

April 15th--Queens v St Johnstone (h), Stranraer v Airdrie (a)

April 22nd--Queens v Brechin City (a), Stranraer v St Mirren (h)

April 29th-- Queens v Dundee (h), Stranraer v Clyde (a)

Bill Goldie
Down from the Highlands 27th March 2006
Queens meet Ross County at Palmerston this Saturday--the last side to beat us on our home ground. But that was way back in November and so much has happened since then. Most of it good, however, with a run of seven home games undefeated. Nevertheless the Dingwall side have had a splendid run of six unbeaten away from home which sets it up for an interesting battle. For, barring a draw, something's got to give!.

Speaking to the 'Website' today, County manager, Gardner Speirs said, "It's a long way but we always enjoy our trip down to Dumfries. Palmerston's a nice stadium with a good playing surface and I remember it well from my days as a player, a coach and now as a manager.

"It's never an easy place to win at but we did on our last visit. But I'll be first to admit we were extremely fortunate. If I recall correctly, we were 2-1 down going into the closing minutes but we snatched two late counters to win 3-2. You played us 'off the park' that afternoon and we really 'got out of jail'.

"Perhaps Queens have more to play for than we have for they are locked in a relegation tussle with Stranraer, but we'll still be coming down looking for a result. Although we trail St Mirren by 14 points (with a game in hand) we'll keep fighting to the bitter end and there's also the incentive of a top four place and automatic seeding in next season's C.I.S. Cup.

"Ian McCall has come in to Palmerston and has turned it around dramatically, particularly since January when he brought in new players. Ian's a shrewd manager who knows what he wants and over the past couple of months Queens have pulled off some excellent results and are the 'form team' at present. So, for our sake, I hope they have a 'wee stutter' come Saturday. We've had some good results away from home ourselves--but too many draws--so we'll be looking for the points".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 27th March 2006
For the third week in a row it's the 'keeper who stars for Queens, this time it was Richie Barnard. Second place went to Andy Aitken with third secured by Stuart Lovell.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Travel Club Update 26th March 2006
Man of the match on the Doonhamers Travel Club buses to Hamilton were 1st R Barnard, 2nd S Lovell, 3rd A Aitken.

Also thanks to the many Queens fans who handed in the Daily Record/Sunday Mail kits for kids tokens please keep collecting and hand them to Ross Corbett, the club shop or the Queens Trust stall and all will be donated to Queens community partners Lochar Thistle Youths AFC.

Buses to Airdrie leave at 11:00am from the old Tesco on Lochfield Road picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat. Remember any member who travelled to both St Mirren and Hamilton on the travel club buses will get Airdrie and Brechin buses free of charge please book early to avoid disappointment.

The end of season dance tickets are now on sale for all members priced at £5 for adult members and £2 for junior members. They will be on sale before and after Saturdays game at home to Ross County in the lounge bar from Iain (joiner) McLeod.

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 25th March 2006
Hamilton have been a 'hoodoo' side for Queens in recent years but that hoodoo was well and truly broken today as we chalked up our first ever victory at New Douglas Park with a convincing 2-0 triumph. Manager Ian McCall decided not to risk either Sean O'Connor or Andy Thomson from the start on the plastic pitch although Andy did come on as a second half substitute. And another non-starter was Willie Gibson who pulled out of training on Thursday night with a hamstring scare.

Richie Barnard took over in goal for an unwell Colin Scott and played a 'blinder' while stalwart Jim Thomson had to leave the field on the half hour mark with a head knock, but the good news is Jim's okay. But that didn't prevent a sterling performance which had the travelling support of over 400 ecstatic at the final whistle.

Also ecstatic was Ian McCall who has hauled Queens back from the brink of relegation to give them more than a fighting chance of survival. Stranraer also won today but that result was 'always on the cards' so the battle's now on for that coveted first division slot.

Said the manager, "That was an excellent all round team performance. We defended well and that's our fourth clean sheet in the last six games. We always posed a threat going forward and could well have snatched a couple more. Paul Burns took his goal well and John O'Neill, who came on as a sub, netted number two with an outstanding finish. But our twelfth man was again our travelling fans who were magnificent throughout and all the lads said afterwards, 'it was like a home game'. But I stressed to them we've achieved nothing yet and there's still a long way to go to reach the finishing line."

And chairman David Rae totally agreed with the manager and added, "That was a fantastic result for us. It may not have been the greatest of games but we took maximum points on a park where we've never won before. And it's just as well for Stranraer won as well! So it's going to be a really exciting finish to the season now."

Bill Goldie
A 'Fair' prediction 25th March 2006
My brother in law, who is also a great believer in statistics assured me last Saturday morning that he was full of confidence for the next two games as Queens never seem to lose when the Fair's in town. And how right he was with wins against both Stranraer and Hamilton.

Bill Goldie
Team News 23rd March 2006
Following his one match suspension, Willie Gibson returns to the squad for the trip to Hamilton on Saturday. It is hoped that Sean O'Connor might feature as he played for the whole 90 minutes in the Reserve fixture at Stenhousemuir on Tuesday night and scored two of the six goals. Everyone else is fit.

Bill Goldie
Manager's reflection 23rd March 2006
Reflecting on Stranraer's 2-2 draw with Ross County on Tuesday night, manager, Ian McCall said, "A draw was always on the cards and that's how it finished. However, that's one of their two 'games in hand' gone, so if we can match their result on Saturday and they lose at Hamilton on Tuesday it would be dead level with five to go. Three of our games are at Palmerston so I'm quietly confident we can win them all".

Bill Goldie
Lovell's loving it 22nd March 2006
With just two goals conceded in our last seven home league games our stadium is fast becoming 'Fortress Palmerston' once again. In the past visiting clubs feared a trip to Dumfries but since the end of December only Hamilton and Clyde have found the net and that's what we all like to see.

Our defence, which in early season was leaking goals like a sieve, is now solid and commanding and one of the reasons is Stuart Lovell, now playing in an unaccustomed 'sweeper' role.

An eye on defence
Speaking exclusively to the 'Website' Sydney born Stuart confessed, "When the manager first approached me about taking on this new role I was more than a bit apprehensive. I'd only played as a 'sweeper' twice before and both times it proved a disaster. In my last game for Livingston I played there and we lost 4-1 and then, up at Airdrie with Queens this season I made a right mess of it, gifting them a goal and finished up losing 4-0. So obviously I had to give it a lot of thought but I'm thoroughly enjoying it now.

"Ironically, I was a striker when I started with Hibs before moving back to midfield. I was still a midfielder at Almondvale but now with Queens I'm in a 'sweeper' role. If I move any further back I'll be in goals but I assure you, that will never happen.

"As far as results are concerned I think we've turned the corner now. In early season we'd developed a very negative attitude and once we went a goal behind the 'heads went down'. We had a 'soft centre' to our defence and were losing far too many goals. But Ian McCall has now made us a much harder team to beat.

"I'm not 'knocking Iain Scott. 'Scotty' was a good friend of mine, and still is, and it was he who actually brought me to Palmerston in the first place. But in football, when a team's not doing well, the manager invariably 'carries the can' and is replaced. Sadly, it's 'part and parcel' of the modern game.

"I had a brief spell as interim manager back in November prior to Ian McCall taking over and it proved a much harder job than I ever imagined. I'm not saying I'd never become a manager when I eventually 'hang up my boots, but not at the present moment, thank-you.

"Since coming to the club Ian has done a marvellous job, bringing in fresh faces and introducing different tactics and new ideas and it has certainly worked. He has steered the team in a new direction!. Everyone's fighting for their place now which is healthy competition and that's good. It means making difficult decisions as to leave out, but it has to be done. He's an experienced manager so I don't think that bothers him.

"The new players he's brought in are all good signings. Andy Thomsom is an experienced striker who reads the game well and still knows how to score goals. Graham Weir has added some much-needed punch up front while Michael Mullen's waiting on the sidelines to grab a place. He impressed me when he came on as sub against Airdrie and up at Dundee and he has a promising future ahead of him.

"Ryan McStay has given us more options in the middle of the park while Andy Aitken's been a revalation and Jim Thomson and I are both a lot more confident when he's around. There's also Shaun Dillon who was a little unfortunate to lose his place through injury and Sean O'Connor who is set to return any time now. That's seven new recruits and I feel they've done a lot to strengthen our squad.

At home our performances have been good and we've only lost once, to Ross County, since our new manager took over. We're also playing much better in away matches now an in recent weeks have beaten Dundee at Dens Park and only lost out to league leaders St Mirren to an injury time goal.

"We're still battling it out with Stranraer to avoid the play-offs but as every week goes by our position's improving. Two months ago we were 12 points adrift of them but we're now level although they have a game in hand. They haven't won since they beat us at New Year while we've had four wins in that space of time. We've still six games to go and we're all confident that we can move above them into eighth place and secure our First Division status for another season.

"Before ending I'd like to say a big 'thank-you' on behalf of all the players for the tremendous support the fans have given us in recent weeks. Home and away it's been superb so please keep it up, I promise you it really does help."

Bill Goldie
Stenny hit for six 21st March 2006
Queens reserves had a convincing 6-0 victory away to Stenhousemuir tonight. They led 4-0 at half-time with goals from Michael Mullen, Sean O'Connor, Derek Lyle and Brian McLaughlin and two more after the interval from Scott Robertson and Sean O'Connor again completed the scoring.

Bill Goldie
No fear of Hamilton 21st March 2006
Despite having not beaten Hamilton in our last eight meetings, Ian McCall insists he's going up there in a confident frame of mind on Saturday. Says the manager, "We've got the best record of any club in our division over those past couple of months and we don't fear anyone now.

"We played them thrice in ten days back in January and all three finished up level after 90 minutes and it was only a goal in extra time up there in the cup replay that beat us.

"Hamilton are one of the biggest sides in our league but they certainly won't be any more physical than Stranraer who we played on Saturday. There's 'physical' and 'physical', but after a game of football you don't expect to end up with two broken noses, a burst lip and a split under the eye.

"In defence we're improving every week and with the midfield much stronger now it takes a lot of pressure off them. Moving Stuart Lovell back as a 'sweeper' was a good move. Andy Aitken has been great since he returned while Jim Thomson is also playing superb at present. We also have Willie Gibson back which is an added bonus.

"Our win against Stranraer has taken us above them in the table but if they win, or even draw with Ross County tonight, they'll go ahead again, and it's back to playing 'catch-up'. With two games in hand they still hold all the aces, bearing in mind they're at home to Brechin on Saturday.

"However, we'll still be taking it one match at a time. We can do nothing at how Stranraer fare and must concentrate 100% on our own results".

Bill Goldie
Soccer Savings 21st March 2006
On Saturday all Queen of the South supporters entering the ground were offered a promotional leaflet explaining about Soccer Savings, a £5 voucher to open an account and details of the Soccer Savings Hotseat Prizes. Well the winning hotseat prize has yet to be claimed so it could be you - check your card and see if you have number 25489 if you have then you have won £250.

If fans did not receive a card or have lost it they can get another by telephoning 0800 612 8000 as there are prizes to be won at the last 3 games.

So why not be like JT and open a Soccersavings Account at the Dunfermline Building Society, Castle Douglas or Grieve, Grierson, Moodie and Walker, Castle Street, Dumfries and remember to keep your plastic card!
See the Soccer Savings leaflet for terms and conditions.

Margaret Heuchan
Chairman Chatter 20th March 2006
Saturday's crucial victory against Stranraer gave all at Palmerston a strong ray of hope for the future and no-one was happier with the result than Chairman. David Rae. Speaking to the 'Website' he enthused, "That was a vital three points for us!. We've now moved above them in the table and have given ourselves a good chance of avoiding the 'play-offs' which really will be a 'dog eat dog' affair.

"But I've got to admit I was a bit worried at the interval for their midfield dominated the first half and they could easily have scored at least a couple.
"When Stephen Payne rattled the crossbar with that tremendous shot I breathed a sigh of relief since players who have been released often have a nasty habit of 'coming back to haunt us'.

"I don't know what Ian McCall said to them in the dressing room at half time but we were a totally different side in the second half. Again we defended exceptionally well and we've only conceded two goals in our last five matches. I was also impressed at the manager's substitutions--he brought on exactly the right players at exactly the right time--and it worked well for us.

"Ian must take a lot of credit for the win but so too must the crowd. There were 2790 there and had it been a warmer day I'm sure we would have reached the 3000 mark. It's a long, long time since I've heard so much noise and singing coming from the main stand and I thought our fans were absolutely brilliant.

"It was good to see 'Bowser' back up in the boardroom again to collect his 'Man of the Match' trophy. He's had a bit of a 'roller coaster' season but was back to his old self on Saturday. That was his first goal of the season but an important one. Yet he missed an easier one just minutes earlier-- it shaved his head by a whisker and he joked that if he had had a head of hair like me he would have scored.

"To celebrate our victory I went down to the Nith Hotel for a nice meal and a couple of drinks. A good win like that makes you feel so much better.

"On Sunday morning I actually had two phone calls praising us on a good result which was a refreshing change. It was unusual for normally the phone only rings when we've been beaten or played badly. When I first took over as chairman I stated that I would always listen to any constructive criticism and I always have done so. Three or four months ago when we were going through a bad patch I was inundated with calls asking, 'What went wrong today chairman' and 'Another bad result Davie' and I even got the same when I was up the town in Lockerbie, Lochmaben and Dumfries. So that's why it was so nice to get a bit of praise for a change. But, having said that, I'd gladly settle for the 'sound of silence' anyday, for it means we're doing well.

"Since Saturday I've been asked several times 'How many points I'd settle for between now and the end of the season'. Well, on present form, I feel we're capable of winning our three home games against Ross County, St Johnstone and Dundee and if we can grind out draws at Hamilton, Airdrie and Brechin I'd probably be content at that. It would give us 12 points and a total of 36 and I'd be surprised if we didn't survive with that. But, again, it all depends on how Stranraer progress.

"Nevertheless, whatever happens, keep the vocal support going. We all appreciate it and it does make a big difference".

David Rae

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 20th March 2006
Colin Scott wins this weeks man of the match voting with Andy Aitken second and Stuart Lovell third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Reserve Match 19th March 2006
Queens will meet Stenhousemuir in a reserve fixture on Tuesday night but the match is away from home. Following the recent win over league leaders, Gretna, Queens now lie in mid-table with 13 points but still have six games to play.

Bill Goldie
Chairman's Message 19th March 2006
This afternoon's South-West derby must rate as the biggest game of the season for both clubs. If ever there was a six-pointer--this is it. A few weeks ago Stranraer were 12 points clear of us but recent results have seen the margin close to two points. We've still to beat them this season and I sincerely hope we can do so today, for it's such a vital match.

In our last two games it's been a case of mixed fortunes and late goals. Against Clyde, Andy Thomson grabbed a valuable winner three minutes from time, but last Saturday at Paisley we lost a goal three minutes into injury time to return home pointless. However our lads defended bravely throughout and I felt heart sorrow for them when that goal went in. Yet, that's football for you!.

Stranraer's match at Hamilton on Sunday was postponed owing to the snow which would be a big disappointment for them, so a win for us this afternoon would take us above then in the table. But what we must remember is the fact that they now have two games in hand.

Congratulations to our manager, Ian McCall who has won February's Bell's 'Manager of the Month' award for Division One. Ian has lifted several of those awards in previous managerial posts but he says this one is extra special for him as he is a 'Doonhamer' and it's for Queen of the South. I'm sure his mum, who lives in Dumfries, will be very proud and here's hoping it's the first of many.

Congratulation also to John O'Neill who made his 100th appearance for Queens against Clyde a fortnight ago. He made it a day to remember by scoring our opener from the penalty spot and then had the final 'touch on' to Andy Thomson for the late winner. That's 53 goals he's scored in his two spells at Palmerston and we'll be making a presentation to John at today's game to mark the occasion.

It was good to hear that C.I.S. have agreed to continue their sponsorship of the League Cup for another three years. With all the Premier League sides involved it can be a most lucrative competition, particularly in the later stages, and I'm really pleased that this major insurance company has seen fit to carry on.

And finally, a warm welcome in this cold winter to all sponsors here today and also to the young mascots.

David Rae

From Official Programme 18-3-06


Bill Goldie
Match reaction 18th March 2006
It wasn't pretty and it wasn't a classy game of football but a goal from Steve Bowey earned Queens three points and that's all that mattered to the home fans. It was the 100th official meeting between the two sides and a very crucial match but the 1-0 victory takes Queens a point clear of Stranraer although the Stair-parkers have 2 games in hand. The crowd of 2,790 got right behind Queens particularly in the second half when they were pushing forward, and the old wooden stand was 'rockin-and-rollin' to the club anthem - The Railway Line.

Said manager Ian McCall afterwards, "The fans were again immense and helped us towards an important win. It wasn't a great match to watch but the wind had a lot to do with that. It was a game of two halves - they were on top in the first half yet they never really managed to cut us open. We knew they'd rely on the 'long ball' for their big men but we defended well. The nearest they came to scoring was a Stephen Payne effort which came off the cross bar, that was a bit of a let off. However we came out fighting in the second period and totally dominated from then on. We had a 'stonewall' penalty turned down and Bowser missed a 'sitter', but minutes later he made amends from close range. We never really looked like losing after that but I was still glad to hear the final whistle.

"But afterwards it was like Emergency Ward 10 in our dressing room, Jim Thomson has a broken nose and a burst lip, wee Burnsy also has a broken nose and Stuart Lovell a split eyebrow."

Steve Bowey was also a happy man when he emerged from the dressing room. Said Bowser, "It's one of the best feeling sin the world to walk off Palmerston with a victory and particularly today when it was such an important match. To get the sponsors Man of the Match award was an added bonus, but to be fair, any one of our players could have won it this afternoon. We didn't play well in the first half but came out at the interval with 'guns blazing' and put them under a lot of pressure. I managed to stab home the only goal but I had missed an easier chance minutes earlier but couldn't quite get my head to it. That's us up into eighth spot now and that's where I hope we'll stay till the end of the season."

Bill Goldie
Shopping specials 17th March 2006
The Queen of the South Club Shop have some special offers available at the moment:

All replica tops - £20
Tracksuits - £45
Winter Jackets - £40
Rain Jackets - £30
Selection of sizes of Junior Blues T shirts from this season and last £2 each or 2 for £3.

Also the Club Shop is also offering a personalised Queen of the South mug with your choice of photograph on it for £10.

Call in at the club Shop tomorrow.
Team News 16th March 2006
Willie Gibson has been served a one match suspension and, as a result, misses Saturday's clash. However, Andy Thomson is now 100% fit and expected to play while Sean O'Connor could well be on the bench.

Bill Goldie
A big day at Palmerston 16th March 2006
As far as most Queens' fans are concerned Saturday's encounter with Stranraer is the most important match of the season for the club. Forget the cup-ties against Hamilton Accies and the great victory at Dens Park last month--this is a real six-pointer.

A draw wouldn't be a total disaster but on our home territory it's a golden opportunity to snatch a win which would take us above them in the table and give us a massive psychological advantage.

With the snow making it impossible to train outdoors at the start of the week players were restricted to 'work-outs' in the gym but the schedule will be back to normal tonight. During the break Ian McCall took the opportunity of jetting off for a short break in Barcelona to re-charge his batteries for the crucial weeks ahead. Ian, of course has business interests in a bar in the Catalan capital but before rumours begins to circulate, he wasn't there for talks with Ronaldinho. He did, however, meet up with ex-Ranger's favourite Giovanni van Bronkhorst for a cup of coffee and a chat about old times. Joked the manager, "I spoke to him about coming to Palmerston, but our terms couldn't tempt him".

Speaking to the 'Website' today the manager did stress that Saturday's match would be vital . Said Ian, "This was always going to be a 'big one' and as we're both fighting for survival the added pressure makes it even bigger than ever. You don't need a mathematician to work out how close it is, so it's obviously a match both sides will be desperate to win.

"We've a good record at Palmerston--unbeaten since November--and that's the way I want it to stay. Stranraer are a good side and I 'take my hat off' to Neil Watt and Stuart Millar who have done a great job for the club. They've performed well against us this season but it's up to us to go out there and take the three points which would see us go above them in the table.

"The team are playing much better now and it's simply down to changes in personnel. I was able to bring in quite a few new faces in the 'windows'--not as many as I would have liked to, but it's certainly helped to stabilise the side. I'm particularly pleased with our defence at the moment--Colin Scott is solid in goal, Stuart Lovell is playing well in his 'sweeper' role, Andy Aitken has added pace at the back and Jim Thomson is more settled now than in early season.

"We're all looking for the biggest 'gate' of the season on Saturday, so get behind the lads and make yourselves heard".

Bill Goldie
Players sought 16th March 2006
If anyone has a contact number, email, address etc for the following three former Queens players could they please email the website on webmaster@qosfc.com, thank you. The players are Colin Harris, Lee Bailey and Colin Campbell.
Travel Club Update 16th March 2006
The buses to the last away game of the season to Brechin for the traditional fancy dress day will know be leaving at the earlier time of 8:30am from the usual pick up points.

The Doonhamers Travel Club bus to Derby for Ted McMinn testimonial match Derby v Rangers is leaving at 6:30am on 1st May from the old Tesco, Lochfield Road prices for the bus are as follows:

Members Non-members
Adults £14 Adults £20
Juniors £7 Juniors £10

There is a reserve list in operation as the bus is full please contact Ross Corbett on ross.corbett@tesco.net or 01387 267376.

Ross Corbett
Soccer Savings 16th March 2006
Soccer Savings Launch
Saturday, 18th March at Palmerston Park

All Queen of the South supporters will be issued with a promotional leaflet explaining about Soccer Savings, a £5 voucher to open an account and details of the Soccer Savings Hotseat Prizes.

Each supporters will receive a plastic card with a unique number on each one. Fans need to keep this card as there will be 4 fantastic prizes over the last 4 games of the season at Palmerston and the top prizes can only be won by supporters who have already opened a Soccersavings Account.

At Half Time this Saturday the winning number will be read out and Queen of the South fans can check their plastic card to see if they have won £250. The winner will need to contact Soccer Savings direct to collect their prize. The prizes increase to £1000 at the last home game for account holders.

Read the leaflet at the match, open a Soccersavings Account at the Dunfermline Building Society, Castle Douglas or Grieve, Grierson, Moodie and Walker, Castle Street, Dumfries and remember to keep your plastic card!

See the Soccer Savings leaflet for terms and conditions.

Margaret Heuchan
A Stranraer Viewpoint 15th March 2006
This Saturday sees the fourth 'local derby' of the season between Queens and Stranraer and as our fans know full well--we've yet to beat our South- West rivals. A victory would see us 'leap-frog' Stranraer in the table but, on the other hand, should they win their lead would open up to five points again.

Speaking to the 'Website' yesterday, Stranraer assistant manager, Stuart Millar refused to believe that whoever wins would retain Division One status. Said Stuart, "Sure, it's a big one for both ourselves and Queens but irrespective of who wins or what the result is on Saturday I don't necessarily think that it would be 'all over' for there's quite a few games to go. We're fully aware that if we win we'd go five points clear of Queens but there's still a lot of points to be won and lost and we're taking nothing for granted.

"From now until the end of the season they're all 'big ones' and every game's important. For us there's 27 points out there to be won and we'll be doing our utmost to pick up as many as we can.

"Up to New Year we were doing well but since then it hasn't been too good. We 'lost' Allan Jenkins in the January 'window' and that was a bitter blow. However, Allan wanted a move and financially it was the right time for the club to sell him or he would have 'walked away for nothing' come May. Alan was a local lad, the team captain and had been seven years at Stair Park. We were all sorry to see him go but wish him luck at Gretna.

"While we've been struggling a bit lately Queens have had a tremendous run. Ian McCall and Stevie Morrison identified a lot of new players in the 'windows' and finances were obviously made available to bring them in and they've strengthened the squad considerably.

"We've had two games called off in recent weeks so we now face four matches in eleven days which is a massive undertaking for a part time club. But the players are all up for it starting with the 'local derby' at Palmerston this weekend. We hope to get more points on the board for I think the battle between the two of us could well go to the last game of the season.

"I know that these 'derby' clashes mean so much to both sets of fans and the result is always 'difficult to call', but Neil and I have never been on the losing end against Queens since coming to Stranraer. We first beat them in the Challenge Cup when John Connolly was in charge and they were actually holders of the trophy then. And since then we've won one and drawn two this season. So we're quietly confident.

"One thing we don't want is the game postponed for we are far enough behind with our fixtures and I'm certain Queens will be keen to get it played as well. The way they've been performing they're sure to get a bumper gate and that will be most welcome.

"Some locals have been saying they'd like to see Stranraer, Gretna and Queens all in the First Division next season, but as far as Neil and I are concerned our priority is to ensure that Stranraer will be there. If our Division One status is secure then it would be nice to have all three South West clubs in the same league but keeping Stranraer up is our main priority at present".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 13th March 2006
Colin Scott wins this weeks man of the match voting with Stuart Lovell second and Jim Thomson third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Travel Club Update 12th March 2006
Man of the match on the Travel Club buses to St Mirren - 1st Colin Scott, 2nd Jim Thomson, 3rd Stuart Lovell.

The Travel Club committee would like to thank the Cottage Bar, Paisley for their excellent free hospitality to all members and Queens fans and hope to see them all again next season.

All Queens fans please remember if possible to collect all the 'Kits for Kids' tokens out of the Daily Record and the Sunday Mail. Tokens can be handed to the Queens trust stall and to Ross Corbett or the club shop. All tokens will be donated to Queens community partners Lochar Thistle Youths AFC.

The Doonhamers Travel Club fixed odds had no winners this week and next weeks prize will be £850 anyone wishing to volunteer to become an agent please see Ross Corbett or Eck Patterson jnr.

Ross Corbett
Match Reaction 11th March 2006
A goal three minutes into injury time cost Queens a share of the points. But to be fair St Mirren had all the chances and in the second period we were pinned back in our own half.

Said Ian McCall after the game, "To lose a goal so late was hard to take but where the referee got four minutes of injury time from I'll never know. They had the bulk of the pressure and they pushed us back, particularly in the second half. But our lads gave their all and it says a lot for them that they pushed the league leaders all the way. We defended well, the back three were tremendous and you could tell how relieved St Mirren were to get that late goal by their jubilant celebrations. However it's all in the past now and our big one is against Stranraer next Saturday."

St Mirren boss Gus MacPherson was a relieved man at the final whistle but remarked, "There's no doubt we thoroughly deserved the victory and even if the late goal hadn't come I couldn't have criticised my players for effort. I don't think even Queens can complain at the final result."

Attendance - 3,436, Queens fans - 325.

Andy Thomson missed out owing to a slight hamstring twinge prior to the game and with Stranraer coming up next week it was agreed not to risk him.

Although Willie Gibson played today he will miss next Saturday's Stranraer match as he's been served with a one match suspension following his recent yellow card against Clyde.

Bill Goldie
Reserves 11th March 2006
Following their 2-1 victory over Gretna in the reserve league on Wednesday Queens reserves next match will be away to Morton at Cappielow on Monday night.

Bill Goldie
Team News 9th March 2006
Queens have no injury worries for Saturday's clash at Love Street against league leaders, St Mirren. Even Sean O'Connor will be travelling with the official party but it will be a late decision whether he'll be in the 16 man squad or not.

Said assistant manager, Stevie Morrison, "Sean played for 70 minutes in the Reserve match against Gretna on Wednesday night. He did well and had no trouble with his knee. But we don't want to rush him and if he's not included this Saturday he'll certainly be in contention for the big one next week against Stranraer."

Bill Goldie
Manager of the Month 9th March 2006
Ian McCall capped a great month when he was named Bell's Division One 'Manager of the Month' for February yesterday. Although Ian has won about a dozen similar awards in an illustrious managerial career he said, "This one's a bit special for it's with Queens."

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Update 8th March 2006
Winner of the fixed odds 7 out of 8 draw for February was Bruce Cullen from W J Dunlops factory.

Tickets for the end of season dance go on sale next Saturday at the Stranraer game prices

MEMBERS - NON MEMBERS
ADULTS £5 - ADULT £10
JUNIORS £2 - JUNIOR £4

Ross Corbett
Reserves win 8th March 2006
Queens staged a second half fightback to beat Gretna in their Reserve League West fixture at Palmerston tonight. Gretna took the lead in ten minutes when a corner was poorly defended, the ball was bundled over the line for the opener.

But Queens got on top after the interval when Tommy English equalised in the sixtieth minute when his shot took a deflection and looped over 'keeper David Mathieson and into the net.

The winner came fifteen minutes from time when Gary Wood headed home at the back post. Crowd approximately 120.

First team regulars in the squad tonight were Richie Barnard, Shaun Dillon, Tommy English, Gary Wood, Brian McLaughlin, Sean O'Connor and Michael Mullen, the other players being Chris Carr, Gareth Campbell, Stuart Hill and Scott Robertson.

Bill Goldie
A big improvement 7th March 2006
Ian McCall was still savouring Saturday's victory when he spoke to the 'Website' this morning. Said the manager, "It's the first time we've beaten Clyde this season and the three points has now closed the gap between Stranraer and ourselves to only two points. But I don't think we played any better than we did against Brechin or Dundee but the big difference was--we got the breaks for a change. At the penalty the referee could have given it either way and at the winning goal the ball just fell right for Andy Thomson to prod it home. A bit of luck makes all the difference in football!."

Queens have now taken an unbelievable 11 points from their last 5 games and had they picked up points at that rate from the start of the season they would have been 6 points clear of St Mirren at the top of the table by now. Unbeaten in their last 5 outings and undefeated at home since November they are currently the 'form team' in the First Division.

However, the manager is cautious and warns, "Four of those matches have been at home and although we beat Dundee at Dens Park I'd now like to see an improvement in our away results. The support at away games never ceases to amaze me--so loud and passionate. You don't notice it so much at Palmerston since our travelling supporters are spread all over the ground while at away games they're all together."

On Saturday those fans will need to make themselves heard as the team will require all the help they can. They travel to Paisley to take on league leaders, St Mirren, who have lost only one league match at Love Street all season. But the manager added, "They're top of the table on merit and we'll have to be at our very best. Gus McPherson and Andy Millen have done a tremendous job up there and they are still firm favourites to make it into the Premier League next season. However, we fear no team now, and when we last met at Palmerston in December we drew 0-0 but I felt we deserved to win. An added incentive for victory is the fact we would overtake Stranraer in the table for they don't play until the Sunday. It may just be for 24 hours, but it would still be nice."

Down in the wilds of Galloway the Stranraer fans must now be getting worried as they see their 12 point lead gradually whittled away and one 'Galloway Gazette' news hack openly admitted, "Queens are closing the gap far too quickly for my liking and our finger nails are now nearly bitten down to the quick. I have a feeling this one's going to go right to the wire."

Since Ian McCall's arrival at Dumfries we've lost only once at Palmerston. Ironically it was against Ross County and it was probably the best we've played all season. Nevertheless he has no intention on 'resting on his laurels' and insists, "We're looking no further than Saturday and we'll be taking it one game at a time".

Have you set a final points target for the end of the season? we asked. "More points than the second bottom side" was his immediate reply. I'm sure we'd all second that!.

Bill Goldie
Reserve match 7th March 2006
Tomorrow night's Reserve League fixture at Palmerston between Queens and Gretna should be a cracker for, no doubt, Rowan Alexander will be sending a powerful side through. And Queens too will be fielding a strong line-up.

Said Ian McCall, "All those who haven't featured in the last two games will be in the squad and that might well include players who came on off the bench. Shaun Dillon will be included and so too is Sean O'Connor. We hope to have another reserve game on Monday night and I want to see Sean play in that as well as he needs all the match practice he can get. If he comes through both games O.K., he might well be in the squad to face Stranraer the following Saturday."

Willie Gibson could miss the vital clash with Stranraer after his 'yellow card' on Saturday. Nothing's certain until word arrives from the S.F.A. but if he is suspended it will start on the 18th of March, the day of the big one.

Bill Goldie
Road delays 7th March 2006
Beware of road delays on the way to Paisley this Saturday. The supporters buses are already going to leave Dumfries at 10.30am. Alternatively you can go A76 to Kilmarnock then A77/A726 or go to East Kilbride and take the A726 into Paisley.

BLW
Queens v. Gretna 6th March 2006
Queens will play Gretna at Palmerston in a Reserve League match on Wednesday night. The game will kick-off at 7.30 pm.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 6th March 2006
Graham Weir wins this weeks man of the match voting with Stuart Lovell second and Andy Aitken third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Chairman's Message 6th March 2006
I was a bit disappointed we didn't beat Dundee on Tuesday night for I felt we had by far the better chances. But I can't fault the effort the boys gave in very difficult conditions and by full time the pitch was almost frozen solid. If we hadn't had the covers down since Sunday the match would certainly have been off.

No doubt most of you saw the article in the Dundee programme regarding the Queen of the South Trust. I read it myself with interest and I'm extremely pleased that David Linden, the Chairman of the Trust and his dedicated team of helpers are continuing the good work after the sad passing of Alex Goodwin last year. I can tell you right now that the donation of over £1500 and the £4000 worth of shares purchased by members was very much appreciated by the Board of Directors and myself and on behalf of us all may I take this opportunity to say a big 'thank-you'. As I've just stated the full article appeared in Tuesday night's edition and programme editor, Bruce Wright, has asked me to mention that-- providing space permits and details are sent to him, he is willing to publish any information from clubs or organisation officially associated with Queen of the South.

While on the 'thank-you' subject I would like to say the same to those willing band of volunteers who helped lift and lay the protective covers this week and wouldn't take a penny for their work. It 'saved' the Dundee match and, hopefully, today's game as well.

This afternoon we welcome the directors and fans of Clyde F.C. to Palmerston. They are very much in the 'safety zone' in the league but must be 'laughing all the way to the bank' having had cup ties against both the 'old firm' this season. And let's not forget they beat Celtic and gave Rangers an almighty fright. We've already lost to them three times this season but I'd like to think we can break that hoodoo with a win today.

A warm welcome as usual to all sponsors and thanks for your continued support, and welcome as well to the young match day mascots who always appear to enjoy their day out.

David Rae

From Official Programme 4-3-06


Bill Goldie
The Play-Offs Explained 6th March 2006
The team that finishes ninth in Division One (currently Queens) play the team that finished fourth in Division Two (currently Peterhead). The teams that finish second and third in Division Two (currently Morton and Partick Thistle) play each other. The winners of these two ties then compete in a play-off final. In other words four teams are playing for ONE spot as the bottom team in Division One (currently Brechin City) are automatically relegated and the top team in Division Two (currently Gretna) are automatically promoted (all games are over 2 legs).

To sum it up if Queens finish ninth they would have to beat (at this moment in time) Peterhead and then triumph over the winners of the Morton v Partick Thistle game in order to avoid relegation.

BLW
Travel Club News 5th March 2006
Thanks to everyone who turned up at the joint race night last night at the Lochside Labour club also thanks to everyone who bought horses and sponsored races. Due to all the hard work we managed to raise £1188.45 between the Doonhamers Travel Club, Queens Trust and Queens youth development.

The committee would also like to thank all members who braved the freezing weather three times this week to both lay the covers and lift them thus ensuring both the Dundee and Clyde games went ahead.

This weeks fixed odds was won by A McMurdo who picked up £1200 for his £1 stake well done this weeks prize is £800.

Following a recent meeting between numerous supporters groups and John Paterson and Gordon Hyslop it was agreed to try and collect as many tokens out of the Daily Record and the Sunday Mail for the kits for kids appeal these tokens start on 11th March all tokens will be donated to Queens community partners Lochar Thistle Youths. Anyone who can collect tokens please hand them to Ross Corbett or to the Queens Trust stall underneath the new stand.

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 4th March 2006
The protective covers again proved they are worth their weight in gold today when they ensured that the Queens versus Clyde fixture got the go ahead after a pitch inspection at 11.30am. It was one of only a handful of games within a 100 mile radius to beat the frost and snow and both chairman and manager were full of praise for those supporters who helped lift and lay the covers this week. And the fans themselves were delighted that their efforts were not in vain as they cheered Queens on to a fighting 2-1 victory.

It was John O'Neill's 100th appearance and he celebrated it by ramming home the opener from the penalty spot, his 53rd goal for the club. After a 'wonder strike' for the equaliser, a right Brazilian style goal, Queens stormed back and grabbed the all important winner 3 minutes from time, the goal coming from Queens legend Andy Thomson.

Said Ian McCall after the match, "That was a big, big win for us. Before we played Dundee I said I was looking for 4 points from the next 2 games, and we got them. Stranraer may have a game in hand but we've got the 3 points in the bag which is much more important. Just over a month ago we were 12 points behind them now we're only 2 and we play them at Palmerston in 2 weeks time.

"Again we had 3 or 4 good scoring chances in the first half but couldn't get the ball into the net. But then came the penalty and John O'Neill made no mistake. After that we were a bit nervy as they came back at us and their goal from substitute Doug Imrie was tremendous strike. However all credit to our lads they fought their way back into the game and scored a deserved winner. It was a good header down by Michael Mullen and Andy Thomson was in the right place at the right time to knock it home. The only thing that bothered me was how Jim Thomson managed to win the Man of the Match award for the second time in five days". That concluded the interview and he went back into the dressing room with a big smile on his face.

John O'Neill admitted that he wasn't aware that it was his 100th game but was delighted to score from the spot. We'd missed a few chances in the first half and were beginning to wonder where a goal would come from after 2.5 games without one. It put us ahead and that was the important thing. I don't feel nervous at all taking penalties", he added, "I hit it as hard as I can and make sure it's on target. It was a great win for us and we all know that."

Bill Goldie
GAME ON 4th March 2006
Palmerston passed the inspection this morning and the match will be played as scheduled.
Pitch Inspection at 11.30am 4th March 2006
The pitch inspection will take place at 11.30am today.
Pitch Inspection 3rd March 2006
A pitch inspection is planned for tomorrow morning at Palmerston, no time has been confirmed yet but as soon as we have any news we will announce it here.
Team News 2nd March 2006
Andy Thomson is the only doubt for Saturday's match having sustained a thigh strain in midweek against Dundee but manager Ian McCall reckons it's 60/40 he'll play. Shaun Dillon is again listed in the squad--he didn't feature on Tuesday simply because there's a lot of competition in defence at present and after missing a couple of games through injury he just couldn't get his place back. Sean O'Connor is still not match fit but he's improving every day and hopes to be back in action soon.

Bill Goldie
Trust news 2nd March 2006
The QUEENS TRUST passed another milestone this week with the signing of it's 300th member. By the end of the Dundee game on Tuesday night this had risen to 312. Around £6,000 has been invested in Queens since August including the purchase of 254 shares. A monthly newsletter is now being distributed to almost 100 young Queens fans, which includes news, mini match reports and competitions. There are two fundraisers over the next few weeks with a Race Night at Dumfries Labour Club on Saturday night, 4th March, in conjunction with the Doonhamers Travel Club and QOS Youth Football (only a few tickets left). Then on April 8th the QUEENS TRUST is holding its second annual Race night in Glasgow at the Old Printworks just off George Square (last years event raised £700). If you wish to sponsor a race or a horse for this event then email us at contact@queenstrust.org.

To join the QUEENS TRUST TEAM simply send an email with your details to contact@queenstrust.org download a membership form from our website at www.queenstrust.org, visit our Stall under the Family Stand on matchdays or pick up a form at the Club Shop.

David Linden
Boss extends his stay 2nd March 2006

Ian McCall signs on the dotted line for a new two year extension to his existing contract with chairman, David Rae, keeping a close eye on proceedings. The signing is quite a 'feather in the cap' for Queen of the South since, just over a year ago, Ian was the third highest-paid manager in Scottish football at Dundee United, and only recently he turned down the opportunity to apply for the vacant manager's post at Premier League Caley Thistle to continue his work at Palmerston.

Bill Goldie
Photograph courtesy of Angus McDougal
Queens meet Clyde 2nd March 2006
Queens take on Clyde at Palmerston on Saturday, a team they have beaten only thrice in their last 15 meetings since gaining promotion in 2003. And one player they'll need to watch closely is Alex Williams who had a brief spell at Dumfries last season. He has been a 'thorn in our side' since he signed up at Broadwood last year and loves getting the better of his mate, big Jim Thomson.

After only drawing our last two home games, the Clyde match is now a 'must win' and Ian McCall himself totally agrees. Said the manager, "We need to pick up all three points on Saturday for after that we've a tough one, away to league leaders St Mirren and I'd dearly like to be close on the heels of Stranraer when we meet them the following Saturday".

Asked about the goal drought in our last two games Ian stressed, "We scored five goals against Airdrie and away to Dundee but haven't found the net in our last two outings. But it's not for the want of trying as we've created loads of chances. But some days they go in and some days they don't!. We netted three great goals up at Dundee and, to be honest, we could easily have scored three against both Brechin and Dundee at Palmerston. However, we didn't concede any in either match, so defensively we've been very sound. Brechin came here intent on stopping us scoring and as far as Dundee are concerned, we'd normally have been happy with a draw for they're a big club and are a good team".

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 2nd March 2006
Andy Aitken wins this weeks man of the match voting with Colin Scott second and Stuart Lovell third giving the defence all of the plaudits from the fans.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Ian McCall to sign tomorrow 1st March 2006
Ian McCall and chairman, David Rae, tied up the 'loose ends' in the manager's new contract this morning. The two year extension now means that Ian is contracted to the club until May 2008 and the official signing will take place at Palmerston tomorrow.
Speaking to the 'Website' this afternoon the manager confessed, "I never ever got to sign for Queens during my playing career but I'm proud I'm now manager of my home town team. Queens are the only part-time club I would ever have come to and to sign a two year extension to my original contract shows just how committed I am to them. Even if we were relegated I could never have walked away from them, so that's why I'm staying on. I appreciate we still have a 'mountain to climb' but I'm up for the challenge. Ever since I walked through the door at Palmerston, the Board, the fans and the players themselves have been great and that's what made up my mind about signing the new contract. It allows me to plan further ahead, continue my media work, manage the club I've always supported and see my mum when I'm in Dumfries. What more could I ask for".

Added Chairman, David Rae, "That's it all 'done and dusted' and I'm extremely happy that Ian has now put pen to paper on a new two year contract. Since he came here in November the team performances have improved and in the January 'window' he made sweeping changes bringing in seven new players and recent results have been encouraging. He was initially offered a longer contract when we first met him, but it was Ian's own decision to opt for the end of the season. But he says he likes it here and we in turn are delighted to have him".

Bill Goldie
Unsung heroes 1st March 2006
A big thank you to all those 'unsung heroes' --the volunteers who braved the Arctic conditions to lay the protective covers at the end of last night's Dundee game. Although temperatures had dipped to way below zero by then, they'd came prepared for the task ahead and the covers went down in a record, one hour. Our groundsman, Kevin and the Chairman send their grateful thanks to one and all.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 28th February 2006
The match was played in zero temperatures so it was perhaps appropriate that if finished 0-0. It was the second goaless draw on the trot at Palmerston and the fans must now be wondering when they'll see a goal. However we are fast running out of home games so it's more important than ever now that we take three points from Clyde come Saturday.

Afterwards manager Ian McCall said, "We deserved to win. We got at them right from the start but didn't take our chances. The best opportunity of the game fell to Gary Wood just before the interval but he failed to connect properly. We could well have lost it near the end but Colin Scott pulled off an outstanding save to keep a clean sheet. But all credit to the players who performed well in difficult conditions."

Dundee manager Alan Kernaghan agreed and said, "Both sets of players did well to put on a good show in tricky conditions. The pitch began to freeze during the second half but I thought a draw was a fair reflection of the game."

Sponsors man of the match Jim Thomson felt Queens could have scored three, "I missed one early on, then Gary Wood put one wide just before half time and Stuart Lovell was unlucky to late in the game when his shot came off the underside of the bar."

Bill Goldie
Dundee at Palmerston 27th February 2006
Queens meet Dundee at Palmerston tomorrow night in a re-arranged match after the scheduled fixture was postponed in December. This will be the first time Dundee have visited Palmerston for almost 16 years and that game, a League Cup tie, proved to be quite a memorable one--Queens winning 6-3 following a 'penalty shoot-out'. The match itself actually ended 2-2 (after extra time) with Gary Fraser and 'Budgie' McGhie scoring, but in the 'shoot-out' Ian Thomson, Jimmy Robertson, Gary Fraser and Tommy Sloan all found the net to see Queens through. In the after-match interview keeper Alan Davidson was quoted as saying, "I'm glad I saved the first two spot-kicks for I was next in line to take one and would have hated to have missed it". Attendance that night was 1346.

With Stranraer drawing at Ross County at the weekend, a win would take us to within three points of the Stair Park side with another home game, against Clyde, coming up on Saturday. Ironically, scorer of the Stranraer equaliser was none other than Stephen Payne, who we released during the January 'window. However, Ian McCall is remaining positive and stated this afternoon, "Sure, Stranraer picked up a useful point on Saturday, but if we win tomorrow we can still close the gap. I watched Dundee play Hamilton in the cup on Saturday and I still think they're a very good team. In fact, I'd go as far as to say they could be 'dark horses' to win the league next season.

"We all know it's not going to be an easy one but it's at home and we'll be going all out to win all our games at Palmerston from now until the end of the season. Our record's been good of late and we fear no-one on our own ground so I'd love to get another three points in the bag".

Gary Wood is congratulated on his wonder winner earlier this month at Dens - Copyright David Young www.dundeefc.co.uk
On his on-going contract talks the manager said, "I'm not even thinking about that at the moment--we're all fully focussed on tomorrow night's match. But there is no big hurry for there's no way I'm going to walk out on Queens or anything like that. We've only a couple of loose ends to tie up and we'll probably be discussing those on Wednesday. Queen of the South are my home town team, I'm loving it here and I'm up for the challenge".

Please note--Tomorrow night's match will kick-off at 7.45 p.m. and all season ticket holders are reminded that brief 9 (the one for the postponed Dundee game) is the ticket required for admittance.

Bill Goldie
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