LATEST NEWS 2006/07
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

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Skipper on the move 28th February 2007
No, don't panic, big Jim's not leaving Palmerston! However he has covered hundreds of miles over the past few months in his new role on the commercial side and working for the 'Active Schools Programme'.

Last week he was off on his travels again his first port of call being Nethermill Primary last Wednesday. The following day he hadn't that far to go with Laurieknowe School getting a visit and on Friday it was up to Johnstonebridge where the pupils were all excited about the Hibs match the next day.

This coming week Jim has a more hectic schedule ahead of him with a long trip today to Eskdale to take in the schools at Canonbie and Glenzier followed by a visit on Thursday to Calside Primary and Cargenbridge in Dumfries. He ends his week in the Lockerbie area at Hutton Primary.

Keep up the good work big man.

Looking back to Saturday's match Jim said, "When the final whistle blew we were all gutted for we felt we'd done more than enough to merit a draw. Every player fought hard, there were no failures. The fans themselves were again tremendous and got really behind us, especially in the second half when we were pushing for the equaliser. However, we in no way disgraced ourselves and we are now free to concentrate fully on the league and staying up in the First Division".

Bill Goldie
Cup dream over 27th February 2007
The drama of the Scottish Cup is now behind us for another year but that gallant fight against Hibs on Saturday will long be remembered by the Palmerston 'faithful'. It's now back to the battle for survival in the league with the two top teams to play within the space of four days. Ian McCall was still upbeat when he spoke to the 'Website this afternoon and said, "The Hibs' game will always be memorable, but it was one we certainly didn't deserve to lose. I've been in the game now for 25 years and when John O'Neill headed home that equaliser it was as great a moment as I've had in football.
"To see Palmerston erupt as it did gave me a great sense of achievement. To see it packed like that was a phenominal sight and every player played their part in turning it into a spectacle. I was proud to be a 'Doonhamer' that afternoon--I was proud of my players and proud for Dumfries. The downside, however, was losing such a 'soft' goal so quickly after we'd scored.

"I know that every club has 'floating fans' and we are fortunate to have a good 'hard-core' support, but what a difference it could make just to get an extra 1000 fans at Palmerston on a regular basis. That would generate sufficient funds to bring in a better quality of player. Whenever a new player arrives here they're all quick to say it's a great place to play football, so that's a compliment in itself".

McCall looks on as Queens press.
Looking forward to Saturday and the Gretna match the manager added, "We've two very difficult games coming up, but we'll take them one at a time. Although Gretna lost at the weekend they still sit top of the table so we'll treat them with the respect that deserves.

"We've already met them three times this season and lost them all, but the two games at Palmerston were not as bad as the final scorelines suggest. We played well, particularly in the early stages of the Ne'rday clash but lost bad goals at crucial times. The 5-0 defeat at Raydale was terrible--it could have been ten.

"However, we have a much stronger squad now and playing better, so we're all up for it."

Bill Goldie
Winger on the 'wings' 27th February 2007
One player who was left disgruntled and 'kicking his heels' on the sidelines on Saturday was Stevie Murray. Said our recent on-loan winger from Kilmarnock, "I would loved to have been in action against Hibs on Saturday. The atmosphere was electric and the crowd fantastic and it's the kind of match all players like to be part of. I couldn't play simply because I'd come on as a sub for Kilmarnock for 18 minutes against Morton in an earlier round back in January, and how I regret that now. However, the lads did great and deserved at least a draw and it was a great game to watch which was some consolation". Jamie can't wait to get the boots back on for the visit to Gretna this Saturday and added, "It's one we'd all love to win as they've beaten Queens thrice this season, so it's time for revenge".

Bill Goldie
Taking the 'Michael' 27th February 2007
Well done Michael Mullen whose currently out on loan at Stranraer. On Saturday he did what he's always done best--come on as a substitute for the 'Cleyholers' to score the equalising goal against league leaders, Morton, and helped his team go on to clinch a 'coupon busting' victory. Shades of that magical night at Dens Park last season.

Bill Goldie
Cup aftermath 26th February 2007
John O'Neill's opportunist header brought Queens back into the game on Saturday and the free-scoring midfielder, who's netted 12 already this season, will be hoping it's enough to earn him a place in the team for the 'local derby' against Gretna at Raydale on Saturday.
Said John, "It was a really hard game against Hibs but an enjoyable one. They're an excellent team with good movement in midfield, but we didn't allow them many opportunities to score until that fateful minute just before half time. The crowd was fantastic--it was an amazing atmosphere in the ground and I only wish we could play in front of crowds like that every week. My girlfriend and my wee girl were there and even she said they enjoyed the buzz.

"We certainly didn't deserve to lose! After they scored their second goal we pushed forward in numbers but we just couldn't manage that elusive equaliser". On the goal itself John confessed, "Initially I made my way across for a long throw-in but when Jamie McQuilken whipped the ball across I got myself between two defenders and found the bottom corner of the net with a good header. The fans went crazy and I felt 10 feet tall.

Jonjo celebrates.

"I hoped it might have been a 'springboard for victory' but it was not to be! They went ahead again with a rather 'soft' goal within three minutes and although we gave it our best shot the breaks just didn't go for us.

"With the new lads coming in we've a much stronger squad now and everyone has to work that bit harder to keep their place in the team. I was fortunate to get a start on Saturday, score a goal, and I hope I've done enough to justify a place against Gretna. In Scottish Cup matches, in particular, it's even more difficult as the rule states that at least two outfield players, under 21, must be listed in the squad.

"However, it's the same for everyone--one poor game and you could miss out. So you must work hard all the time and 'keep on your toes'.

Can we survive this season? We asked. "Of course came the positive reply, we certainly can. We've 7 of our last 11 games at home, and we don't lose many at Palmerston now. And on top of that we're banging in the goals. Survival is in our own hands, we're all confident we can stay up so, it's all down to ourselves".
The Hibs' view

Said their skipper, Rob Jones, "They didn't give us what was expected--it was a good bit more than we expected. You've got to give them a massive pat on the back, a lot of credit has to go to them. The way we came back after losing the goal was fantastic but Queen of the South played well and how they're bottom of the First Division I have no idea as they gave us a real scare". And David Murphy, scorer of the Hibs' opener added, "Queens played brilliantly and that always seems to happen. Players from a lower division often manage to find that bit extra when they take on a side from the top flight. We expected a really tough game at an old-fashioned ground with a typical cup tie atmosphere and that's what we got".

A fond farewell to 'Oor Wullie'

Willie Gibson bid a poignant farewell to Palmerston on Saturday with a five-star performance, but the 'wing wizard' departed with one big regret adding, "I've only scored one goal for Queens in all my time here and I would love to have netted against Hibs to leave on a 'high'. It would really have made my day".

Although only 22, Willie has been at Palmerston for 10 years, graduating through the club's youth programme and that one and only goal he talks about came on January 8th, 2005 when he rifled home a spectacular counter in a Scottish Cup tie up at Montrose to help Queens triumph, 2-1.
He had a 'dream debut' as a youngster, coming on as a second half substitute against against Queen's Park in the last home game of season 2000-01 and, despite Queens losing 1-0, Willie won the 'Man of the Match' award. "That was another great day" he recalls. "I was only 16 at the time and I'll never forget it".

Willie was raised on the Solway coast at Southerness so it's little wonder he's a low handicap golfer, but he's now a family man, residing in Annan with his partner and kids. "Kilmarnock's just up the road" he insists, "So I'm not planning to relocate at present. I'm very close with some of the lads down here and I'll be keeping in touch with them. Killie and Queens share the same training ground on Mondays and Tuesdays, so no doubt I'll bump into them there as well.

"I'll be looking for their result coming through every Saturday but I'm confident they'll stay up in the First Division. After Saturday they have seven of their remaining fixtures at home and still have both Ross County and Airdrie to play at Palmerston, so here's hoping!"

Willie says goodbye.
In his time here he's certainly had his 'ups and downs' and admits, "I've had many a rollicking from Ian McCall but I realise now it was all for my own good. He's helped me an awful lot to control my temperment and often said that I reminded him of himself in his young days. I owe him a lot and he's helped make me a better player".

Willie would also like to pass on his thanks to the chairman, players, coaches, fans and everyone else at Queen of the South for their support and backing over the years, and we in turn wish him every success at Kilmarnock and in Premier League football.


Bill Goldie
Man of the match 19th February 2007
The top three in the man of the match voting from the Hibs cup game were; first place Neil Scally, second Jamie Adams and third place Jim Thomson.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Celebrity Question & Answer Night at Palmerston 26th February 2007
Tickets for the Celebrity 'Question and Answer' Night at Palmerston in support of MacMillan Cancer Relief on Saturday March 17th at 7:30 pm are also now available from Ian Black on 07702 850 400.

There are one hundred places available for the fun packed night but tickets are going very quickly so give Blacko a call to ensure that you get yours.

Tickets are also available from Colin Rutherford on 07738 246 576.

Ian Black
From the Chairman 25th February 2007
On the morning after the night before, David Rae was still reflecting on 'what might have been'. Said the Chairman, "If only our young keeper had been a yard quicker at their second goal; if only that shot from Andrew Barrowman hadn't been deflected and if only the angle hadn't been so impossible for Jamie Adams when left with the goal at his mercy. But that's football for you!

"We're out of the cup but we went down fighting and I can't ask for more than that. In the Boardroom afterwards I was chatting to Hibs' Chairman, Rod Petrie who was full of praise for Queens. He said we'd played exceptionally well and had deserved a draw, and that it had been an exciting cup-tie and a great day out for all the fans.

"The match was played in a sporting manner, it was close on a 'full house' and, to my knowledge, there were no unsavoury incidents. I was even informed that the Hibernian team coach was 'cheered out of Palmerston' by our supporters on its way home which was a nice gesture.

"On the days prior to the game my phone never stopped ringing with 'good luck' messages from the fans and the media after stories or quotes. We got a tremendous coverage in the press and it cost me a fortune buying all the different newspapers to read all about it.

"Had we managed a draw it would have ensured a bumper cheque for the replay at Easter Road but on the other hand might have caused its own problems. Had we gone up there and got 'thumped' it might well have reflected on our league performances and had it finished in us being relegated it would have been a much bigger blow.

"We can now concentrate 100% on the league and catching Airdrie and Ross County. They're both now 'well within our sights' and if we continue to play as we are at present I'm confident we can claim that coveted 8th place.

"Of our 11 remaining league games we now have 7 at home, so the stage is set for an exciting finale. If Saturday's display could only get another 1000 fans through our turnstyles what a difference that would make! Had we had the current squad with their strength and enthusiasm at the start of the season, I'm certain we could be sitting about fourth place by now.

"After Saturday's match I went into the bar lounge to talk to some of our supporters and met up with Neil Martin who played for Queens in the 1960s. He was telling me that he now stays just outside Edinburgh and supports Hibs, and that this was his first visit back to Palmerston since he left us to join Hibs for £7500 in 1963. He mentioned that strikers nowadays reckon that 15 goals a season was adequate but in his day you needed 20 to 30 before being recognised.

"Thanks again to all for your tremenous support. Keep it up and always remember, 'Your hame team's your ain team'.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 24th February 2007
A gallant performance by Queens and a late rally almost earned us a draw which would have been thoroughly deserved. Hibs were on top in the first half and a goal on the stroke of half time gave them an interval lead. Queens came out fighting in the second half and John O'Neill headed an equaliser in the 48th minute. But only three minutes later a slip in defence allowed the visitors to score what proved to be the winner.

Said Ian McCall at the final whistle, "Well we're out of the Scottish Cup for another year but no way did we disgrace ourselves or let the fans down. Hibs may have dominated the match in the early stages but never at any time did they 'cut us open' and had we taken our chances in the second half we could well have got at least a draw. Our 'keeper had no chance whatsoever with Murphy's goal right on half time. It was a tremendous strike but at a bad time for us to lose one. John O'Neill took his goal well and the roof nearly came off the Palmerston enclosure. Had we held them for a bit longer than three minutes it could have been different as we got on top in the later stages. That second goal was a poor one to lose it wasn't a particularly good cross but was defended badly. In the last twenty five minutes it was all Queens and both Barrowman and Adams had were unfortunate with half decent chances. Had we got a draw we might well have gone up to Easter Road and got beaten but would still have a good cheque to show for it. However we can now concentrate 100% on the league and with Ross County losing at home this afternoon it's getting tighter at the bottom."

Jamie MacDonald thoroughly enjoyed the experience despite taking, 'pelters', from the Hibee fans. Said the young 'keeper, "We fought hard and might have got a draw. I had no chance with the first goal and it was a superb strike but I should perhaps have done a bit better with the second one. A long ball was knocked in and it was just a bit of a misunderstanding."

Hibs boss John Collins was happy just to leave Palmerston with a win - even though it was a narrow one. "I always knew it wouldn't be easy and I was right. All credit to Queens - they played a lot of good football especially in the second half and fought tot he bitter end. The danger time was when they scored, it gave both the team and their fans a lift but we managed to go ahead again. We then defended well as they came back at us late in the game."

Attendance 6,198. Tennent's Man of the Match - David Murphy - Hibernian.

Bill Goldie
Big write up tomorrow 23rd February 2007
Look out for the Scotsman newspaper tomorrow as it features an extensive preview of the Hibs Tennent's Cup match.

Bill Goldie
In the limelight 23rd February 2007
Stephen Dobbie's impressive scoring record and the Hibs cup-tie looming, has made the ex-Hibee a popular target for the press this week with articles in the 'Daily Mail', the 'Express', the 'Star' plus various other publications. Said Stephen, "At Dumbarton we got precious little press cover, but this week my phone's never stopped ringing. I was also at the Tennent's Scottish Cup press conference yesterday with Jamie McQuilken and the manager, and that was an experience in itself. However, I'm not complaining! It's all good publicity for both the club and myself--you can't beat it, so long may it last."

Added on-loan Hearts starlet, Jamie MacDonald. "I can't believe how popular I've become since coming to Queen of the South. I was featured in both the 'Sunday Post' and 'Sunday Mail' last weekend; I was in the 'Sun' and the Edinburgh 'Evening News' earlier this week and even appeared in the 'Planet Hearts' fanzine and the Queen of the South Website.

"If we could win tomorrow, or even draw, it would be a massive achievement and create even more to talk about". Joked Jamie, "I'm sure some of my team-mates at Tynecastle are beginning to envy me, but it's quite enjoyable and I may as well 'milk it' while I can."

Bill Goldie
Sean to sign tomorrow 23rd February 2007
Striker Sean O'Connor has agreed terms on a two year extension to his existing contract and will officially sign prior to the cup-tie with Hibs tomorrow. Ian McCall was naturally delighted and added, "Sean and Stephen Dobbie are scoring goals goodstyle at present and long may it continue. The signing is a tremendous boost for the club on the eve of such a big match and, although other clubs had approached him, he chose to stay at Palmerston."

Bill Goldie

More of the same please Sean.
Build up to the Cup - 5 - Supporters have their say 23rd February 2007
In our final instalment of 'Up for the Cup' three members of the Travel Club talk about their favourite Scottish Cup games, their travels away from home and predict tomorrow's result agains Hibs. All are dedicated members of the Travel Club and Action Group and have faithfully assisted with the 'Big Palmerston Cleanup', the lifting and laying of the protective covers and arranging other events such as the float for the Guid Nychburris parade.

Jim and Ross true blue through and through.

First up is Ross Corbett, Chairman of the Travel Club and a Queens' fan since the age of five. Now 35, he was introduced to the club by his late father and grandfather who used to run the Moffat QOS Supporter's Club. Ross recalls, "My most memorable cup-ties were very hard to select as, over the years, there have been many good and bad times. I remember travelling all the way up to Huntly one Boxing Day with a stinking 'hangover' only to reach the ground and find out the match was off.

"There was also Whitehill Welfare when Queens won 3-2 and the fans had a mass snowball fight at half time and the occasion when I was only one of six fans who made the long journey up to Dingwall to meet Ross County in a game that finished 2-2. Enough said about the replay at Palmerston though!

"Probably the three most memorable cup-ties of all would be the 6-4 victory over Stranraer in 1985 to set up a tie with Dundee United. That match was played on at snow covered Stair Park and was the very first time my father took me on the supporters' bus. Despite the weather George Cloy scored a 'cracker'.

"My next memory was Dundee United at Tannadice in 1990. Queens took a massive support up for the match which was unfortunately postponed, but there was only about 100 there for the re-scheduled game on the Monday night which we lost 2-1. Stuart Gordon netted the quickest goal of the tournament that season in only 23 seconds which sparked a one-man pitch invasion, but it wasn't to be.

"Another unforgettable cup encounter was the 1-1 draw with Hearts at Palmerston in front of a large crowd which created a noisy atmosphere by both sets of fans. That was in January, 1983, and the performance of our keeper 'Barney' Davidson that day was brilliant!

"My favourite three players of all-time were George 'Giro' Cloy who always gave 100% in a Queens' shirt. 'Giro' played 334 games for the club in many different positions, including goalie, and scored many an important goal.

"Alan 'Barney' Davidson was another, and in his first spell here how he never received a Scotland 'call-up' is beyond belief. One save which stood out was a Gordon Banks' like save at old Broomfield against Airdrie. He always had time for the fans and used to make sure we were looked after on the team bus home when we were 'hitching' it up to games.

"Finally, my favourite player of all time has to be Tommy Bryce (mark 2). An absolute gentleman, both on and off the field, he scored and set-up many a goal for Queens and I will always remember that famous record-breaking 'hat-trick' he scored against Arbroath at Palmerston in 1993. I can also recall Tommy's two overhead kicks in the promotion winning season of 1985-86".

'Blazerman', as he is affectionately know to all on the 'Mad' website, concludes, "I'm certainly looking forward to tomorrow's match against Hibs which gives us a wee break from the tensions of the league. And, if we keep it tight early on, there is always a chance that big Sean or Stephen Dobbie will grab a goal. All I can ask is for the Queens' fans to get right behind the team for the full 90 minutes and cheer them on to a glorious victory".

Ross's prediction: 1-1.

Jim McCormick was next in the firing line. Now 45, he has been following Queens faithfully for 34 years and is one of the few 'Blue Army' foot soldiers who can claim to have visited every senior football ground in Scotland.

Said Jim, "My most memorable Scottish Cup tie of all time was, without any shadow of a doubt, the epic 5-4 cup replay against Ayr United on 18th February, 1976. It was one I will never forget and probably the most exciting football match I've ever seen. My number two choice would be against Motherwell at Palmerston on 26th January, 1980 when we won 2-0 with goals from Kevin McCann and Iain Mitchell

"Number three was a cup replay up at Alloa on the 29th January, 1990. Alloa were 2-1 up with only seconds to go when 'Budgie' McGhie headed home following a corner which took the tie into extra time. Andy Thomson, that 'goal machine', went on to score the winner".

A process worker, Jim won the Finefare 'Supporter of the Month' award in 1986 and still has the trophy at home to prove it. He, and his wife Eileen, work tirelessly behind the scenes to assist the club in many ways and both are well respected.

Jim selects Tommy O'Hara, Jimmy Robertson and Andy Thomson as his favourite three players but could add many more to that list.

Jim's prediction: 2-1 for Queens.

Jayne Pringle then came forward to give a female point of view but was a bit shy to have her photo taken with two so hunky and macho males. Jayne is a Revenue Officer and has followed Queens all over the country with the 'Travel Club' for 31 years. Like Jim, that memorable cup replay against Ayr United at Palmerston in 1976 was her top choice. She recalls, "I can still visualise Peter Dickson's shot floating over the keeper's head to nestle in the back of the net for that winner.

"A close second was the cup-tie up at Motherwell just three years ago when they were coasting at 3-0 up and then Sean O'Connor netted twice to give the home fans the fright of their lives. Terry Butcher, their manager, admitted afterwards that he was glad to hear the final whistle".

Added Jayne. "Another personal favourite was our last appearance in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup 30 years ago when we met Celtic at Parkhead. I was only 14 at the time and it was my first-ever away cup match. Although we lost 5-1 I'll never forget it and Chris Balderstone winning the 'Man of the Match' award".

Long time fan Jayne.
Her three top players are Andy Thomson, who she describes as a' terrific goal scorer', Tommy Bryce, 'a perfect gentleman' and Des McKeown, 'a right character'.

Jayne's prediction: 1-0 for Queens.

So that's all folks. Let's all hope Queens can do the business tomorrow.

Bill Goldie
Celebrity Question & Answer Night at Palmerston 22nd February 2007
On Saturday March 17th at 7:30 pm there will be a Celebrity 'Question and Answer' Night at Palmerston in support of MacMillan Cancer Relief.

Attending will be Queens legends Tommy Bryce and Stevie Mallan plus soccer pundit Bill Leckie - who is always game for a laugh. MC for the night is 'Super' Des McKeown. During his time with Queens, Des was renowned for his second touch - usually a tackle, supporters in the Main Stand will recall the back of Des's head as he spent a lot of his career on the bench...

Tickets are £5 and will be available from Colin Rutherford on 07738 246 576. Des McKeown will be at Saturday's game with Hibs and will be more than happy to sell you a ticket.

There are one hundred places available for the fun packed night!

Colin Rutherford
Quietly confident 22nd February 2007
With only about 43 hours to go before the big kick-off, Ian McCall is quietly optimistic that Queens can give Hibs a fright come Saturday. Said the manager, "We're playing much better now than we did in early season. We've only lost once at home since mid-October and it's mostly down to the fact that we're scoring a lot more goals.

"In out last 7 matches we've scored 15 goals and 12 of those have come from our two front men, Stephen Dobbie and Sean O'Connor. I just need to glance at the big white board in my office to re-assure myself of that.

"We go into the tie as underdogs, but underdogs don't always lose. Our fans are like an 'extra man' just now and they'll be 4000 of them cheering us on. 700 got right behind us at Airdrie last Saturday and we won 3-0, so I'm looking forward to that extra 3000 or so to spur us in to even greater heights against Hibs.

"With fixture being re-arranged we now have four home games 'on the trot' after our visit to Gretna, and will give us a great opportunity to move off the bottom of the table".

Bill Goldie
Team News 22nd February 2007
Warren Moon returns to the Queens' squad for Saturday but winger, Stevie Murray, is again 'cup-tied' and will miss the Hibs game. Also missing will be Stevie Tosh who suffered a bad knee injury at Airdrie. Out too is Paul Burns who is due to go in for surgery on his knee and Andy Aitken, who has been sidelined now since July with cruciate damage. But good news came for Andy yesterday when he was informed that he could now commence 'full training' which could see him back in action in two to three weeks time. Keeper, Colin Scott, hopes to resume training a week on Monday.

Bill Goldie
Update on Stevie Tosh 22nd February 2007
Stevie Tosh's knee injury has now been diagnosed as medial collateral damage and, thankfully, not the cruciate as was first feared. No time scale can be put on his return at present, but it will be clearer in about a weeks time.

Bill Goldie
Build up to the Cup - 4 22nd February 2007
Today three former Hibees, all now at Palmerston, share their views on the big game:

Dobbie, Paton and McQuilken all former Hi-bees and all now at Palmerston. Photo - Angus McDougal.
First up was Eric Paton who recalled, "We played Hibs at Easter Road in the League Cup only four years ago and although we lost 2-1 it was still a memorable night with over 1800 Queens' fans there cheering us on. We lost an goal early on which 'put us on the back foot' right away, and that was criminal. And it's something we must guard against come Saturday".

Eric joined the 'Hibees' straight from school and was five years with them before moving to Partick Thistle, then Clydebank en route to Palmerston. Said the classy wing-back who, only recently, celebrated his 150th first team appearance for Queen, "Hibs are one of the top sides in the Premier League and will be hard to beat. They are packed with talent with star players such as Scott Brown and Ivan Sproule. Both are lightning quick and will require close attention. But we're on our own patch, and if we could score first then--who knows!

"We have a much stronger squad now with the manager bringing in the likes of Stevie Tosh, Stephen Dobbie, Andrew Barrowman and that old 'codger', Jamie McQuilken who was already a veteran when I played with him at Easter Road. Our three 'on loan' players have also been brilliant and the team has gelled well which is good for the future. I'd like to get a result for all those dedicated Queens' supporters who travel miles to watch us, and I hope they'll do their utmost to 'lift' us at the weekend".

Two of Eric's biggest fans are his mum and dad, Ina and Eric (senior). He stressed, "They follow me faithfully, home and away, wherever I play and rarely miss a game. They didn't make it to Hamilton, however, as my father suffered a heart attack two days before the match and had to be rushed to hospital. Thank goodness, he's all right now, but I'll have one heck of a job keeping him away from Palmerston on Saturday. But, when things like that happen, it certainly puts a game of football into perspective".

Eric himself had a frustrating time of it in early season when he started losing blood which saw his energy levels drop and he could hardy last an hour on the pitch. Thankfully that's all behind him now and he's raring to go.

Eric in action earlier in the season.

Dobbie is congratulated on another great finish.
Says striker, Stephen Dobbie, "I'm really looking forward to playing against my old team-mates. I still know most of them having spent a year and a half there before signing for St Johnstone. I bumped into them unexpectedly before the Hamilton game when we stopped off at our hotel for lunch and all the Hibs' squad were there as well. We had a good chat about old times and had a laugh together as we discussed the forthcoming cup-tie.

"They're playing well at the moment and will be hard to beat and I feel their two front men, Scott Brown and Steven Fletcher, could pose a danger. Scott is a 'class above' while Steven's scoring goals for fun right now".

'Dobbs' is delighted at how he's started at Palmerston and says, "I've netted eight in our last seven games and it could have been more. I want to keep on knocking in the goals for the gaffer and also the Queens' fans who have been brilliant since I moved here. It's great to hear them chanting my name when I score". But he warned, "Doing well in the cup is fine but it's even more important that we stay up in Division 1. The boss has brought in some real quality players during the 'window' and I think we can survive".
Added Jamie McQuilken, The cup-tie will be a welcome distraction from the rigours of league football but we're all very much aware that remaining in the First Division is our major objective. I'm really enjoying it at Palmerston and in the past few weeks results have improved and we're picking up a point or two 'on the road' now which is a bonus.

"Prior to the quarter-final draw I was hoping for Hibs or Celtic! We got the Hibs and I'm happy enough with that. Celtic at Parkhead would have been great for the club financially, but to go up there and win would be asking a lot. We have home advantage which helps and there's always a shock or two in the Scottish Cup. Just look at last year! Who would ever have thought that Gretna would make it to the final--but we did--and very nearly won it.

"If we could score first and get the home punters behind us we might just 'sneak' it. But don't forget, Hibs are an excellent side who play fast, attacking football. They have quality throughout the entire squad and every player is a danger".

He spent 18 months at Easter Road and recalls, "Eric Paton was there at that time and he was just a 'pup' of a boy". Jamie confesses he's not missing 'full-time' football at all and states, "We train four times a week--the only difference is the sessions aren't quite as long".

Jamie weighs things up.
Tomorrow on 'Up for the Cup' three staunch Queens' fans reminisce, air their views and give match predictions.

Bill Goldie
A few tickets still left 21st February 2007
There are still a few terracing tickets left for Saturday's cup-tie against Hibs. They are available at the club office up until Friday afternoon but will not be on sale on the day of the match. Tickets for the Gretna game at Raydale are still available but will not be on sale this Saturday either.

Bill Goldie
Talks with Sean 21st February 2007
The manager and chairman met with Sean O'Connor this afternoon regarding an extension to the striker's existing contract which expires at the end of the season. In the words of Ian McCall, "Things went very well".

Bill Goldie
Re-arranged fixtures 21st February 2007
The Queen v St Johnstone match which was postponed owing to the cup-tie with Hibs has now been re-scheduled for Tuesday, 6th March with a 7.45 kick-off.

The Queen v Clyde game originally postponed last month then re-arranged for February 27th has now been pushed back to Sunday, 25th March (the day after the Scotland v Georgia international). Kick-off 3.00 pm.

Both those fixtures are at Palmerston.

Bill Goldie
More interesting facts 21st February 2007
Queens have met Premier League opposition on 37 occasions and won 3 times - Hibs (1977), Falkirk (1987) and Dunfermline (1990). Our record against the Hibees is played 62, Won 17, Drawn 11.

BLW(QoS Prog.)

PS:
Oops - Forgot the Premier League started in 1975-76 so add St Johnstone and Ayr United (Cup run) to top league sides Queens have beaten.
Build up to the Cup - 3 21st February 2007
Boyhood football at Parkhead

As a youngster in Dumfries Ian McCall used to play football at Parkhead. But not the famous one in the east end of Glasgow we hasten to add. When he was a young boy he used to stay in Park House, just along the road from the Cairndale Hotel, and two of his favourite spots for a 'kickabout' was a square of grass across from the Academy and the playing field at Parkhead on the site of the old wartime fever hospital. Ian was a pupil at Noblehill School at that time and Parkhead was a popular haunt for him and all his pals.

Little did he know that years later he would go on to play at the real Celtic Park many times as a profession footballer and all the other top grounds in Scotland such as Ibrox, as a player for Rangers, and Tynecastle as well. Easter Road was another well known to him, but he's glad Queens have home advantage when they face Hibs in the cup on Saturday.

Looking forward to the match our manager stressed, "On their day Hibs are capable of beating any side in the Premier League, and that includes the 'Old Firm'. But I was up watching them against Dundee United on Sunday and the Tannadice pitch has been infiltrated by some unwanted bug which made it very bumpy. It proved a great leveller and it finished, 0-0. I just wonder if we could transport some of those mystery bugs to Palmerston before Saturday which might give us a better chance.

Ian McCall studies his side in action.
"Seriously though, and to be realistic, Hibs are one of the best footballing sides in Scotland but, should they have an 'off-day' and we play at our best, then we have an 'outside chance'. My BBC work has given me the opportunity to watch Hibs quite a lot this season and their side is full of class players and danger men like Scott Brown, Ivan Sproule plus many others.

"However, we're doing well ourselves at the moment and scoring goals into the bargain. Up at Airdrie on Saturday we showed how well we really can play and I was delighted with the performance. Stephen Dobbie netted another two which takes his tally to eight in seven games, but a lot of credit up front must also go to Sean O'Connor who's been a revelation those past few weeks. No wonder other clubs are after him, including Livingston!

"But the Chairman and myself are going to sit down and have a chat with Sean this week about his future at Palmerston. He's well aware what the club has done to help him through his re-hab and he likes it here in Dumfries, which is a good thing.
"We need the home fans to get behind us again on Saturday. They were phenominal at Airdrie--some of them were right behind the 'dug-out' and making so much noise I could hardy get my instructions through to the players. But I'm not complaining--give us more of the same against Hibs!

"Following his injury on Saturday, Stevie Tosh is unlikely to play and we're just waiting with 'fingers crossed' for his assessment. Stevie Murray is again 'cup-tied', so he'll miss out as well. Paul Burns is to go for an operation on his knee, so that's another one missing, but some good news is that Andy Aitken is now only two or three weeks away from a return and I hope to give him a 'run out' in the next reserve match".

The Hibs viewpoint

When the draw for the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup was first made, manager John Collins insisted, "Queen of the South are there on their own merit and we will treat them with the respect they deserve". And speaking to the 'Website yesterday he was of the same opinion and added, "I still feel exactly the same--they thoroughly deserve to be there. They have home advantage and we expect to have a hard 90 minutes in front of us on Saturday.

Collins gives his view.
"They're on a run of form at present and, although I've not seen them myself, my 'number two' watched them at Airdrie at the weekend and came back with a positive feedback. Obviously he pinpointed two-goal Stephen Dobbie as a potential danger man and I notice he's now hit the net eight times in seven outings. But he's only one of four ex-Hibees in their squad--Tosh, McQuilken and Paton being the others.

"I didn't realise until we spoke that this is the first time our two clubs have met in the Scottish Cup. So it's an historic occasion and here's hoping the match lives up to it.

The papers say we start favourites! But favourites is just a word, and when we cross that white line come Saturday it's 11 against 11 and it's all down to how you play on the day.

Asked if the 'cup double' was now their target this season, the former Hibs and Monaco player and Scottish internationist was quick to reply, "Yes, we're into the final of the CIS Cup and that's great, but there's a long way to go before we can even think about winning two cups. Our first aim is to beat Queen of the South on Saturday and we're fully focussed on that at present. I've never played on Palmerston Park before and, in fact, it will be my first ever visit there. So, I'm looking forward to treading 'new ground' and hoping it's an enjoyable cup-tie".

Jambo Jamie hopes to humble Hibees

As a youngster at school in Broxsburn Jamie MacDonald's dream was to face Hibs at a packed Tynecastle and keep a 'clean-sheet'. Says our 19-year-old on-loan keeper, "It's not going to happen at Gorgie Road just yet, but to beat Hibs at Palmerston would be the next best thing. Hibs haven't won the Scottish Cup for 105 years--that's a long time--and, come Saturday, I'd like to help Queen of the South keep it that way.

"We had five keepers at Hearts and getting a game was difficult at times, so that's why I opted for a loan deal at Queens, and I've no regrets. I'm getting playing every week in front of decent crowds and the players and fans alike have made me most welcome. It's a perfect opportunity to show what I can really do, and it might just give me the chance to play on an even bigger stage in the future.


Jamie in action for Queens
"I can't wait to face the Hibs! It's an exciting prospect and I'd be the hero of Tynecastle if I could help Queens knock them out. Nevertheless, it will be major test for myself and the team. I'm told it's 57 years since Queen of the South last made it to the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup, so I'd love to help them make it there once again".

Tomorrow on 'Up for the Cup' three ex- Hibees, all now at Palmerston, talk about Saturday's game.

Bill Goldie
In the 'News' 20th February 2007
Queens' fans who don't normally buy the 'Galloway New' should make an exception this week. It contains a special page on the Queen v Hibs cup-tie written by local scribe and fanatical Queens' fan, Colin Paterson. In it will be interviews with the Chairman, manager and skipper, Jim Thomson and also a talk with 89-year-old supporter, Andy Frazer. So, get out an get a copy on Thursday.

Bill Goldie
Stevie Tosh injury 20th February 2007
Stevie Tosh is going into hospital in Glasgow tomorrow afternoon for a scan on his injured knee. However, following a doctor's examination yesterday there doesn't appear to be any cruciate damage which is good news but until the result of the scan comes through nothing is certain. Hopefully it's not as bad as was first feared.

Bill Goldie
Odds on 20th February 2007
Best price for a Queens victory in Tuesday's, "Racing and Football Outlook", is 9-1 at Ladbrokes. We haven't beaten a Premier League side since Andy Thomson's extra-time winner at Dunfermline in the Skol Cup (1990)

BLW (QoS Prog.)
Build up to the Cup - 2 20th February 2007
Today Des McKeown and Kevin Hetherington reflect on the Queens v Hibs League Cup clash in 1994. This was the last time Hibs were at Palmerston for a competitive match and the Easter Road side ran out winners, 3-0.
Des McKeown remembers it well and says, "I'd just arrived at Queen of the South from Albion Rovers and it was only my third game for them. We'd won our first two so we were quite confident but Hibs were much faster and much fitter and won comfortably. Billy McLaren was manager then and Alex Miller was the Hibs' boss. The crowd was over 5000 and one of the biggest I'd ever played in front of. If I remember right we had two players sent off which didn't help our cause--but I enjoyed the experience! Afterwards, Billy McLaren informed me that Hibs were 'interested in me' and, although nothing ever came of it, I still took it as a huge compliment.

"Stevie Mallan and Tommy Bryce were both in the side that night and we've all remained close friends to this day. I always had a great respect for 'wee Tam' who I always thought could well have played at a much higher level. I think he still holds the British record for the fastest 'hat-trick'--three goals in only 1 minute 46 seconds against Arbroath in December, 1993. He was Queens' fifth highest-ever scorer with almost 100 strikes to his credit. Stevie Mallan too was a prolific scorer and he netted over 90 goals for them as well and is still knocking them in on a regular basis for Auchinleck Talbot.

Des McKeown - twice a Queens player, always a Queens fan!
"Stevie Mallan and Tommy Bryce were both in the side that night and we've all remained close friends to this day. I always had a great respect for 'wee Tam' who I always thought could well have played at a much higher level. I think he still holds the British record for the fastest 'hat-trick'--three goals in only 1 minute 46 seconds against Arbroath in December, 1993. He was Queens' fifth highest-ever scorer with almost 100 strikes to his credit. Stevie Mallan too was a prolific scorer and he netted over 90 goals for them as well and is still knocking them in on a regular basis for Auchinleck Talbot.

"We're all actually coming down to the Palmerston Lounge Bar for a charity 'Question and Answer' night on Saturday, 17th March, and my old mate and fellow columnist at the 'Sun', Bill Leckie will be joining us as well. I'm M.C., it kicks-off at 7.30 pm, tickets are £5.00 and it's in aid of McMillan Cancer Relief. That's good, I got my plug in".

Des spent four happy years at Palmerston before leaving in the summer of 1998 to join Tommy Bryce who had just been appointed player manager at Partick Thistle. But during his time here he was priviledged to be a member of the Queens' team that lost 1-0 to Falkirk in the final of the Challenge Cup at Fir Park." I remember it well" said Des. "It was a tremendous day out and even though we lost every one of us--even the fans--thoroughly enjoyed the experience".

He was to return to Palmerston in November 2000 and tells of a very funny incident. He recalls, "During my time away Kevin, the groudsman, had levelled off the turf at the corner of the park and, unknown to me, had taken away the 'step' that had always been there. So, when I went to take my first corner kick I completely missed the ball, kicked the corner flag and nearly broke my toe. I'll not tell you what I called Kevin at that time!"

After his second spell at Dumfries Des went on to sign for Stenhousemuir but in a pre-season friendly down at Barrow he suffered a severly broken leg which brought a premature end to his playing career. Later he became manager at Ochilview and although things went well at first, due to inconsistency at the start of this season he resigned. However, he still has his own office supplies firm to keep him busy along with his journalistic work.

He was down at Palmerston a few weeks ago for the Dundee cup replay which we won on 'penalties' and added, "It was an exciting night, right to the end, and I'll be back down for the Hibs game. I'd love to see Queens win this time around!

"I have many happy memories of Queen of the South and have always had a great affection for the club--and I always will. They looked after their players well, and that means such a lot in football. Chairmen like Norman Blount and Ronnie Bradford were always approachable and I have nothing but good to say about Queens".
Kevin Hetherington also remembers that last game with Hibs very well but for all the wrong reasons. "I had just returned from Auchinleck" he says "And was really looking forward to the match. But Dougie Mills and myself were both ordered off and the boss, Billy McLaren, was far from happy and let us know in no uncertain terms what he thought of us".

But Kevin also recalls a more successful League Cup run four years earlier when they reached actually reached the quarter-finals and adds, "It was called the Skol Cup at that time and we travelled all the way to Montrose only to draw 0-0, but Andy Thomson and Jimmy McGuire scored in extra time and we won 2-1. In the next round at home to Dundee we again finished level, even after extra time, but we won through in the first ever penalty 'shoot out' at Palmerston. Alan Davidson was our hero, saving two penalties, but I won the 'Man of the Match' award and I still have it to this day.


Kevin Hetherington
"In round three it got even better when we beat Premier League, Dunfermline at East End Park, winning 2-1. Two Dumfries lads were in their team that night, Davie Irons and our present manager, Ian McCall. I wonder if the pair of them remember it. It was then Celtic in the quarter finals at Parkhead and we were all excited--only 90 minutes away from a semi-final! It was 1-1 going into the last ten minutes but Joe Miller scored seven minutes from time to end our dream".

When he was a youngster, growing up in Troqueer, Kevin used to have kickabouts down the Holm Field with his pals and imagine playing for Queens and becoming a professional footballer one day. And that dream was to come true in the summer of 1985 when newly appointed manager Nobby Clark signed him from Ayr United. Kevin went straight into the first team and made his debut together with another new acquisition, Tommy Bryce, who was later to become a 'legend' at Palmerston.

At that time stalwarts in the side were George Cloy, Bobby Parker and Jimmy Robertson who he describes as, 'a real joker' and added, "Also playing around that time was Billy Reid, now manager at Hamilton. We had a great side and gained promotion in my first season which was a tremendous thrill".

In 1988 and again the following year Kevin enjoyed the experience of competing against two top English sides, Newcastle United and Manchester United at Palmerston. He recalls, "Gazza was in the Newcastle side that night and was magnificent. Gordon Strachan was one of many stars in the Old Trafford line-up and the match was in remembrance of the Munich and Lockerbie air disasters. Just 'rubbing shoulders' with the likes of Alex Fergusson and Sir Matt Busby was memorable".

After six years at Queens, Kevin moved to Auchinleck Talbot for a spell but returned at the start of season 1994. He with us for another 18 months, culminating in a total of 266 appearances, before moving on once again to Annan Athletic.

During his time at Palmerston he played under no fewer than six managers, some of them very famous names--Nobby Clark, Mike Jackson, Davie Wilson, Billy McLaren, Frank McGarvey and Ally McLeod. "They all had their good points and bad points" he remarked "But Ally was a real character, even in the twilight of his career".

Kevin is well known in Dumfries and was involved in the licensing trade for many years, having been owner of Hetherington's Bistro and licensee of both the Jolly Harvester and Tam o' Shanter. But he has now returned to his 'grass roots', so to speak and, apart from his full-time job assists his wife, Fiona, run the Normandy Bar in Troqueer Road.

Our most recent cup encounter with Hibs was in October, 2003, when we lost 2-1 in the CIS Cup at Easter Road. The travelling support had been grossly underestimated that night with about 400 expected and 1800 turning up. It was fully 15 minutes after kick-off before all our fans eventually got into the ground and by that time Queens were a goal down. Hibs scored again to make it 2-0 but Alex Burke netted a late penalty to give us some consolation. Attendance was 7613.

Tomorrow on 'Up for the Cup' Ian McCall previews the game and our young keeper, Jamie MacDonald, tells how much he's looking forward to meeting Hibs.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 19th February 2007
The top three in the man of the match voting from the Airdrie United win were first place Stephen Dobbie, second Sean O'Connor and third place Jamie Adams.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Queens versus Hibs 19th February 2007
Queens may have never met the Hi-bees in the Scottish Cup but have crossed swords in the League, Skol, Coca-Cola and CIS Cups winning once - a 2-1 victory at Easter Road in 1977.

BLW (QoS Prog.)
Build up to the Cup - 1 19th February 2007
Today an ex-Queens' favourite, Mike Jackson, takes a 'trip down memory lane' and recalls a past cup battle against the 'Hibees' some 30 years ago. Although we have never met Hibs before in the Scottish Cup, Queens have had many hard fought tussles with them in the League Cup over the years. Mike enjoyed a most successful three year spell as our manager from 1975 through to 1978 and during that time guided the club to four cup quarter-finals (two Scottish Cup and two League Cup). He was actually in charge the last time we featured in the last eight of Scottish Cup when we went down 5-1 to Celtic at Parkhead 30 years ago. But one of his biggest successes was knocking Hibs out of the League Cup the following season

Mike, who now does a bit of 'scouting' for Portsmouth reflects, "At that time ties were over two legs! We beat them 2-1 up at Easter Road--wee Tommy O'Hara netting the first and Peter Dickson scoring the second from the penalty spot. The Hibs' fans were not 'happy chappies' that night and neither was their manager, Eddie Turnbull. In the second leg at Palmerston they came at us but we were disciplined, defended well and held out for a goalless draw to see us through.

Mike Jackson - twice a Queens manager
"I remember Chairman, Willie Harkness, coming into our dressing at the final whistle beaming from ear to ear and saying he was looking forward to going up to the Boardroom to hear what his counterpart, Tom Hart, had to say. However, Willie wasn't so chuffed later in the competition when, after disposing of Brechin City and Dundee we went out 4-3 on aggregate against Forfar who were a league lower than us".

Wing wizard Tommy O'Hara
Added the former Celtic player, "In my first season at Dumfries we had a suberb run in the League Cup as well! We got through to the quarter finals and although we lost 1-0 to Rangers at Ibrox we beat them 2-1 over 90 minutes at Palmerston on a horrible wet night. I still recall Tommy Bryce heading the winner in the final minute but, unfortunatly, it was not to be as Alex McDonald snatched what proved to be the decider five minutes from the end of extra time. There were over five and a half thousand at that game and although 'soaked to the skin' they enjoyed every minute of it. The Gers were managed by Jock Wallace at that time and he had their strongest side out, including big names like Derek Johnstone, John Greig, Sandy Jardine and Tommy McLean, so although beaten we weren't disgraced.

"Later that same season we again faced Rangers in the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup but were well and truly beaten this time, 5-0. There were 20,000 at that one so Queen of the South must have made some money that season.

"We had a tremendous squad of players at that time! John Dempster and Tommy O'Hara who had 'pace to burn', Billy McLaren who later moved to Hibs as a player plus other great performers like Nobby Clark, Peter Dickson, 'Ches' and big 'Bally'. I really loved my spells at Dumfries--it was a great part of my life and years I'll always remember. They were nice people down there and we had a good fan base who understood and enjoyed their football".
As a player Mike turned out for Celtic, St Johnstone and the now defunct Third Lanark, plus Clyde, Partick Thistle and Clydebank, and also enjoyed a brief spell with Queens back in 1967 and '68.

His first ever game on Palmerston Park however, was as an 18-year-old for Celtic Reserves v Queens' Reserves and he added, "I'll never forget that date! It wasOctober 19th, 1957! Queens beat us 5-2 but it was the same day Celtic tanked Rangers 7-1 in the League Cup final. We were all lying soaking in the bath feeling sorry for ourselves when an old guy came into the dressing room with tea and sandwiches. We asked him the score from Hampden and when he told us, a huge cheer went up and we quickly forgot about our own defeat".

Mike concluded, "I like to get down to Palmerston whenever I can and still keep in touch with some of the players from my era--Billy McLaren, Iain McChesney and Nobby Clark, who now works with Motherwell. I was down for the cup replay against Dundee and thought they played very well that night. If the play to top form there's no reason why they can't beat Hibs--we did it all those years ago and I'd be delighted if Queens could do it again come Saturday. Good luck to them".

John Dempster
In tomorrow's 'Up for the Cup' Des McKeown and Kevin Hetherington recall their cup memories against Hibs.

Bill Goldie
Action Group Update 19th February 2007
Man of the match on the two Doonhamers travel club buses at Airdrie were 1st S Dobbie 2nd S Murray 3rd S O'Connor.

There was one winner on the travel club fixed odds last week who was T McGee and his agent was M Campbell/Globe Inn Market Square. This weeks prize is £400.

Well done to the fifty plus volunteers who turned up to help Kevin with the Palmerston tidy up prior to the Hibs match. It was amazing the amount of rubbish the action group collected. It was also nice to see several junior blues helping out. Thanks to Ailsa for providing lunch and Oakbank Skips for providing the skip any Queens fans looking for a skip give Oakbank a phone as the support they have given the action group is excellent.

Ross Corbett
Prize Draw Update 18th February 2007
Would you like the chance to win £500 on Saturday, £50 and £25 each weekday, 52 weeks of the year?

Queen of the South Football Club have an exciting daily draw and you can help the Club by taking part.

The Club is currently raising funds to employ a player, Jim Thomson, to visit schools and work in the community promoting health and well-being to young people. Through participation in the Draw you can help the Club with this essential work.

To join all you need to do is download a form from the 'Prize Draw' page of this website and hand it into your nearest agent, all noted below. Alternatively you can pay by standing order, monthly, quarterly or annually. The Queens Draw Team will send you your very own Queens Draw membership card, showing your lucky number. After that, just wait to be informed of your first win. The results are announced Monday - Saturday on West Sound Radio at around 11.45am. in the Wednesday and Friday Standard, The Galloway News and of course on this website under Prize Draw results.

At only £1.00 per week or £2.00 to double your chances and prizemoney sent automatically if you win, nothing could be more simple or fair. So go on and have a go!

LIST OF ALL QUEEN OF THE SOUTH PRIZE DRAW AGENTS

Dumfries agents
Aberdour Hotel, Newall Terrace
Alan Cathro, HMYOI, Terregles Street
Annan Road Post Office
Dirom's Newsagent, Nith Place
D Cruikshanks, Queen of the South
Dumfries Papershop, Glasgow Street ** starting as an agent on Monday 12th Feb
Dupont - work based collector - Stuart Carroll* (we would like to find more agents in Dupont on the different
shifts - please get in touch if you would like to help)
Fraser E Q, Hardthorn Stores
Galloway Foods
Globe Inn, Market Square
Globe Inn, High Street
Henderson's Newsagent, Galloway Street
Hoggs Newsagent, Gt King Street*
Hole I' the Wa' Inn, High Street
Isobel McCrae, work based collector in Boots, Dumfries*
Locharbriggs Social Club, Auchencrieff Rd, Locharbriggs
Mac's Newsagent, Annan Road *
McCormick J, Nithsdale Mills, St Michael Street
Michaela's Mobile Shop
Mount Sydney Hotel, Craigs Road
Premier Stores, Lincluden Road
Ross Corbett
Salutation Inn, Market Square
Sandhu, Auchencrieff Rd, Locharbriggs
Spread Eagle Bar, Galloway Street
Stag Bar, Bank Street
Ye Olde Friars Vaults, Friars Vennel

Agents in towns and villages outwith Dumfries
Auldgirth Stores
Cargenbridge Stores
Castle Douglas - A Low, Newsagent, King St
Castle Douglas - Sandra Watson
Closeburn Shop and PO
Crocketford - Sandra Watson
Crossmichael Village Shop
Dalry - G & M Newton, Main Street
Eastriggs Social Club
Ecclefechan - Tennant House Stores, High Street
Gatehouse of Fleet - Jim McCutcheon
Glencaple Shop and PO, Glencaple
Haugh of Urr Village Shop, Main Street
Hollywood Shop
Kirkconnel - J & T Carlyle, Newsagent *
Kirkcudbright - Paul Jones Bakery, St Cuthbert Street
Kirkton Stores *
Lochfoot PO, Moat Drive, Lochfoot
Lochmaben - Danny Wright
Lochmaben - Kings Arms Hotel, High St
Lochmaben - Mrs Maxwell, Marjoriebanks, Lochmaben
Lochmaben -Tom Watson, work based agent at Russell Roof Tiles *
Lockerbie - Annandale Herald, Newsagent *
Moffat - AM Grieve, Newsagent (Iain Anderson) High Street*
Moffat - Colvin Garage, High Street
New Abbey - M Carberry, The Square*
New Galloway - Michael Lawrie*
New Galloway - Ross Lawrie*
Parkgate - Colin Hamilton, WD Clark Engineers
Penpont -Linda Stitt, Grennan Road
Sanquhar - Brown's Newsagent** starting as agents from Friday, 9th February
Sanquhar - Ian White, Nith Valley Embroidery*
Springholm - Billy McKie, Reoch Park
Thornhill - Memories, Drumlanrig Street
Twynholm Stores, Twynholm

The Club is looking for new work based agents and our Commercial Manager, Margaret Heuchan can explain what is involved and help you get started. Phone Margaret on 01556 504569 for details of the Draw and how to join. Payment can also be made by standing order.

Those marked * have recently started as agents for the Queen of the South Prize Draw.

Margaret Heuchan
Match reaction 17th February 2007
Queens got the result all their fans were looking for at New Broomfield this afternoon with a resounding 3-0 win over Airdrie United. It was probably the best we've played all season and the three points were well deserved, but with the good news comes some bad news, Steve Tosh had to leave the field early in the second half after a dreadful challenge by Neil McGowan who was immediately shown a red card. It's feared it might be an ACL (cruciate injury) but Steve will be on anti-inflammatory tablets all weekend and assessed on Monday.

We now trail Airdrie United by only one point with a match in hand and with Gretna beating Ross County we are just three points behind the Dingwall side. Stephen Dobbie has turned into a superb capture by manager Ian McCall with eight goals in seven games and Queens have now given themselves a realistic chance to beat the drop. We couldn't have asked for a better rehearsal for next Saturday's cup battle with Hibs and the result should now ensure a sell out at Palmerston.

Said Ian McCall afterwards, "We performed very well, defended well throughout and could well have scored more goals in the second half. Airdrie United couldn't handle our front two of Stephen Dobbie and Sean O'Connor who are combining well together and they caused them a lot of bother. It's a big win but we mustn't forget we're still bottom although our position now has greatly improved. The tackle on Steve Tosh was shocking and I'm just keeping my fingers crossed it's not what I think it could be."

Added skipper Jim Thomson, "A brilliant result! A fantastic all-round team performance! The lads all battled their corner and every one of them chipped in. The only down side was Steve Tosh's."

Just over 700 Queens fans made the trip north today - a tremendous support.

Bill Goldie
Gretna Ticket Sales 16th February 2007
Tickets for the Gretna match at Raydale on Saturday, 3rd March, will go on sale on Tuesday, 20th February from 11 am to 5 pm (Season Ticket holders only) and on Wednesday, 21st February from 10 am to 5 pm (non season ticket holders), thereafter at normal office hours until all sold. Prices: Stand, £14 with £7 concessions; Enclosure, £12 with £6 concessions. They will not be on sale at the Hibs match.

Bill Goldie
Queens v Hibs 16th February 2007
All stand tickets for next Saturday's Scottish Cup tie against Hibs have been sold and only 500 terracing tickets now remain. They will not be on sale tomorrow (Saturday) but at the Palmerston office as usual on Sunday, 18th February from 12 noon to 4.00 pm and from Monday, 19th February onwards from 10 am to 4 pm until sold out - with the maximum number of tickets per person now lifted to four. The 2200 briefs despatched to Easter Road were all snapped up within a couple of hours and Hibs officials claim they could have sold twice as many.

Bill Goldie
Team News 13th February 2007
Queens hope to have a full squad available for the crucial match at Airdrie on Saturday. Warren Moon is listed as 50-50 and may be added to the pool while young Mark Whorlow is fit again and available for selection. Other news: Colin Scott is still about three weeks away from a return following the keyhole surgery on his knee but Paul Burns is due to visit a specialist for an examination on his injured ankle. It's good news, however, for Andy Aitken who reports, "I'm progressing very well and travel up to Hampden this week for a final strength test. If that goes well, hopefully it's all systems go!"

Bill Goldie
Action Group Update 14th February 2007
For anyone who missed the meeting last night here is a short update of events.

1.The final times and details of the Palmerston tidy up prior to the Hibs match were sorted-We will be meeting at Palmerston from 8:30am this Sunday 18th February.With the following jobs getting priority,sweeping terraces and stands,painting row numbers e.t.c. in old stand,litter pick in and around the ground and weeding of the pitch side.

2.It was agreed to hold a car boot sale on the last Sunday of every month starting with the 25th March in the main car park at Palmerston from 9:00am-1:00pm more details will follow.The following volunteers agreed to organise the first event-R Corbett,J Swan,D Linden,S Rae and C Watson.

3.The Queens supporters action group contact list was updated anyone who wishes to add their name and number to the list please e-mail ross.corbett@tesco.net

4.This years Guid Neichburris entry-date Saturday 16th March time 6:15pm-Theme "for we may travel by the railway line"-Details of entry-1x float 1xQueens mini bus 3 x tractors/trailers and as many walking entrants as possible in fancy dress and Queens strips.The following volunteers will co-ordinate the named sections.

Float-P Shortt,S Myatt,J Pringle and L Currie Music-A Wilson Walking Fancy dress-B Currie and M Buchan Tractors-K McCormick and R Corbett Anyone who could not make the meeting and wishes to help out please contact Ross 01387 267376 or attend the next meeting on Tuesday 20th March in the Palmerston lounge upstairs bar from 7:00pm.

Ross Corbett
More goals makes manager happier 13th February 2007
Ian McCall praised his players today for their concentrated effort in recent weeks and confessed he was much happier now at the improved strike rate. Speaking to the 'Website' from Tel Aviv this afternoon the manager said, "I'm particularly pleased with all the new players I've brought in during the 'window'. We now have a lot more 'fire power' up front and in our last five games we've hit eleven goals with eight of those coming from newcomers. Stephen Dobbie has scored six in six games while young Jamie Adams has netted in his last two matches.

Both the Jamies, Adams and MacDonald, who are on loan to us have had a lot of deserved recognition in the national press over the past couple of weeks--something they would never have had playing reserve football at their own clubs. Both also played for Scotland Under 21s against Germany recently and Jamie MacDonald even picked up the 'Man of the Match' award that night despite playing only half a game.

He pulled off two tremendous saves for us up at Hamilton on Saturday, but to be honest, I don't think he remembers much about the second one which got him smack on the nose. I was quite happy to settle for a point up there! It was a decent result as it's never an easy park to play on and the players hate it. We've drawn both our matches there this season and Billy Reid mentioned in his 'Programme Notes', 'We were one of only three sides to beat them at New Douglas Park last season'.

I felt we finished the stronger side although it could well have ended up 4-4. We had good impact and are playing more attacking football now. However, we need to tighten up in defence as we're still leaking too many goals for my liking.

Unfortunately other relevent results didn't go our way and there's still no change at the foot of the table. Ross County equalised in 'injury time' at Firhill while Airdrie also got a draw at Gretna.

This week's match at Airdrie is even more crucial as it's one we just can't afford to lose. A win would be 'worth it's weight in gold' and that's what we must strive for. We've already met twice this season and both finished in draws. But we should really have won them both as they grabbed the equaliser in the dying minutes of each game due to unlucky breaks. Had we held on to win those two, what a difference it would have made to our league placing.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 13th February 2007
The top three in the man of the match voting from the Hamilton game all came from the 'window' signings this week. Winner was goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald, second plave went to Stephen Dobbie with third place to Jamie Adams.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Action Group Update 12th February 2007
All Queens fans are reminded that there is a meeting of the Queens supporters action group tomorrow night in the upstairs bar in the Palmerston lounge from 7:00pm everyone is welcome.The main topic will be this years guid neichburris entry.

The Queens supporters action group need as many volunteers as possible to help Kevin the groundsman get Palmerston up to scratch for the visit of Hibs.The tidy up will start at 9:00am next Sunday 18th February everyone is welcome evn if you can only manage half an hour.

Ross Corbett
Man of the Match 12th February 2007
Techincal problems prevent us from bringing you the results of the man of the match voting from Saturday. We will however be able to post the results tomorrow evening.
Help needed 11th February 2007
Our groundsman, Kevin McCormick and Travel Club president, Ross Corbett are urgently requiring help for a big 'clean up' of Palmerston next Sunday prior to the cup-tie against Hibs the following Saturday. Work will commence at 9.00 am and all are wecome at any time throughout the day. Don't be shy--the more the merrier!

Bill Goldie
A big surprise 11th February 2007
Imagine the surprise for the Queens' players and officials when they walked into their regular hotel on Saturday for their pre-match meal only to discover the entire Hibs' squad there already prior to their visit to Parkhead. After pleasantries had been exchanged and the cup match discussed a very tall Hibs' player sauntered over to enquire about Steve Bowey. His name was Rob Jones who came from Middlesborough and had been a team-mate of 'Bowsers' at Gateshead.

He asked us to pass on his regards to his old pal and when we did just that 'Bowser' said he remembers big Rob well. He says he's enjoying it at York City but being 'full time' and still working for Warren Pearson at his flooring factory leaves him little leisure time. Added the likeable 'Geordie', "I scored again yesterday--that's six this season already--but I still miss Queen of the South. I've managed up a couple of times this season to see them play and their's is the first result I look for when the full time results come through on Teletext". He sends his regards to all at Palmerston and hopes we stay up.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Update 11th February 2007
The winner of the man of the match for the two Doonhamers travel club buses at Hamilton was 1st S Dobbie 2ND J McDonald 3RD N Scally.

There are still a few seats left on the second Doonhamers travel club bus to Airdrie. The buses are leaving at 11:00am from old Tesco Lochfield Road picking up at The Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830.

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 10th February 2007
A share of the points at New Douglas Park is never bad but with both Ross County and Airdrie United drawing our position remains the same at the foot of the table. Queens started brightly and despite going behind to a rather soft penalty that man Jamie Adams scored again for the equaliser. Hamilton regained the lead and started to dominate and it was only two super saves from Jamie MacDonald that prevented us going in at the interval 4-1 down. Stephen Dobbie equalised midway through the second half with a great finish from an acute angle - his sixth goal in six games - to earn us a share of the spoils much to the joy of the 369 Queens fans in the crowd of 1,454.

Said Ian McCall after the final whistle, "Over the ninety minutes I suppose a draw was a fair result, it's never an easy park to play on so I'll settle for that although the final result could easily have been 4-4. We started brightly but they scored from a soft penalty, we then managed a quick equaliser but then they netted again. In the later stages of the first half Hamilton started to open us up a bit in the wide areas but our 'keeper pulled off two great saves to keep us in the game. As they were getting on top I changed it round a bit in the second half and I felt we played much better. Stephen Dobbie netted a great goal to get us back on level terms to make up for a bad miss in the first half. To come back from one down twice to take a point was heartening although I did feel we had the upper hand in the second half."

Added young goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald, "I just about, 'threw it away' near the end but I think I made the right decision to stay put. I got a right sore one on the nose just before half time but fortunately the bleeding stopped in the dressing room at half time and it didn't bother me in the second half. I thought that 'Dobbs' strike was a beauty and it earned us a point but had we taken all our chances we could have won."

Bill Goldie
New date 9th February 2007
The home game against Clyde which was postponed on the 13th January will now take place at Palmerston on Tuesday, 27th February.

Bill Goldie
Team News 8th February 2007
Stevie Murray returns to the squad for the trip to Hamilton on Saturday after missing out last week having been 'cup-tied'. Out however are Paul Burns with an ankle injury and Warren Moon, still nursing a groin strain. Ian McCall is swithering whether to risk Sean O'Connor on the artificial surface at New Douglas Park. Said the manager, "Sean's been playing great those last few weeks but the playing surface up there worries me. The last thing I want is for him to get injured and be out again".

Bill Goldie
Charity Night at Palmerston 8th February 2007
'Super' Des McKeown will be 'MC' for the night, hosting an evening with Bill Leckie, Tommy Bryce and Stevie Mallan on Saturday 17th March. The evening is in aid of McMillan Cancer Relief and will 'kick off' at 7:30pm in the Lounge Bar at Palmerston.

Tam, Stevie and Des are of course, all Queens legends, whilst Bill Leckie is a legend in his own mind - so it should be a fun evening - with the lads taking on questions from the floor.

Items of memorabilia will be auctioned, if anyone has an item that could be donated to be included in the auction, the team would be extremely grateful. Tickets are priced at £5.00. Check back soon for more info.

Colin Rutherford
Action Group Update 8th February 2007
Calling all Queens supporters,staff,coaches and members of the local community. Please make every effort to attend the next meeting of the Queens action group which is on Tuesday THE 13TH FEBRUAURY IN THE UPSTAIRS BAR AT PALMERSTON LOUNGE FROM 7:00PM. Items to discuss will be the following.

1.GUID NEICHBURRIS ENTRY

2.GROUND TIDY UP PRIOR TO THE HIBS MATCH

3.CAR BOOT SALE

4.ACTION GROUP CONTACT LIST.

Ross Corbett
Ticket sales 7th February 2007

Arrangement for sale of Tickets - Queen of the South v Hibernian 24.2.07

Tickets will go on sale to QOS Season Ticket Holders only on Tuesday 13 February from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will also be on sale from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday 14 February from the Office at Palmerston Park.

Tickets will be sold on a one for one basis on the production of a Season Ticket.

During these times Credit Card Sales will also be done for Season Ticket Holders on the telephone quoting Season Ticket Number.

Orders may also be placed by post, with payment being made by Credit Card, Cheque or Postal Order, quoting Season Ticket Number.

Tickets will be priced at: Adult £18 OAP and Students £9, 16 and under £5

Tickets will then be offered for sale to the general public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday 15 February and on Friday 16 February from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. one per person.

They will also be on sale on Sunday 18 February from 12 noon until 4 p.m. and from Monday 19 February to Friday 23 February between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day, until they are sold out.

The Dumfries and Galloway Standard Stand and all Terracing have been allocated to Queen of the South while the Galloway News Stand will be allocated to Hibernian. This will enable the Club to meet the requirements of the Scottish Football Association Rules for the Competition and to best ensure the segregation of rival fans within the ground.
Ticket pricing 7th February 2007
Prices for the Tennent's Scottish Cup tie against Hibs at Palmerston on Saturday 24th February will be: Adults - £18, Senior Citizens - £9 and Juvenilles - £5. For policing and stewarding the entire East Stand (2,300 seats) will be allocated to Hibs fans. In the event of a replay being required the match would take place at Easter Road on Wednesday 7th March 2007.

Bill Goldie
Tonight's AGM 6th February 2007
There was a turnout of 87 shareholders present for the club's AGM which was held at the Nith Hotel, Glencaple, tonight. Chairman David Rae presided and welcomed all present. The Chairman gave a detailed account of how the operational loss of over £330,000 came about. Questions were asked but he answered them all to the best of his knowledge. This satisfied the meeting and the accounts were duly passed.

Mr W. J. Hewitson was then re-elected as a director.

In the business that followed former Chairman, Norman Blount, addressed the meeting and suggested that Queen of the South F.C. should consider 'groundsharing' with Gretna F.C. as it would benefit both clubs, particularly Queens. A lengthly discussion then followed but at the end of it David Rae re-iterated that 'groundsharing' was not an option as long as he was Chairman.

After the official business was concluded Ian McCall was called in to take part in a 'Football Forum'. Many questions were put to him but the manager answered them all and, in the process, added a bit of humour to the proceedings.

Bill Goldie
Up for the Cup 6th February 2007
The quarter final Scottish Cup tie between Queens and Hibs will take place at Palmerston on Saturday, 24th February with a 3 pm kick-off. The match will be 'all ticket'. More details hopefully tomorrow.

Bill Goldie
Stay focussed! 6th February 2007
Queens head for Hamilton on Saturday and Ian McCall has drummed into his troops that he wants to hear 'no talk' about the forthcoming cup-tie with Hibs. Said the manager, "I want them 100% focussed on our next two league matches for our first priority is to stay in the First Division. Our next three league games are all away from home and none of them are easy, but we've 13 in total left to play and every one of them could prove crucial. Seven of those last ten are at home and we're doing well at Palmerston just now.

"So it's a case of 'hanging in there' and picking up as many points as possible. Wins are so vital--three times better than draws!"

The artificial surface at New Douglas Park is often said to be a 'big advantage' to the home side but it hasn't be so in recent weeks with Accies managing only one win in their last six home games. However, the Manager warns, "Maybe so, but they've only lost one of those six matches and it's never easy at Hamilton. I may make a change or two because of the playing surface--I know it doesn't suit Sean O'Connor so I may 'rest' him. But I'll make up my mind come Saturday. I feel now we have the strongest squad since I arrived here, but we could still do with another centre back plus one other. We're down in numbers at present but up in quality"

Bill Goldie
From 'Down Under' 6th February 2007
Had a phone call this morning from a Paul Lusk in Western Australia. He says he's befriended two ex-Queen's players, Ernie Hannigan and Percy Dunlop, who stay near him in Perth, and a local radio station are keen to record a documentary on the two Scottish footballers. Paul went on to say that they all meet on Sundays when Celtic are on live TV over there. They like to watch the match and have long chats about the good old days at Palmerston as well.

Most older Queens' fans will of course remember the players. Ernie was a bit of a character and liked to charm the ladies. He was a right winger and joined Queens from St Roch's in 1961, striking up a good partnership with Neil Martin. He was transferred to Preston North End in 1964 for a fee of over £10,000. A lot of money in those days!

Percy, a forward, was signed in the summer of 1959 but didn't feature all that much in the first team with veterans like Jim Patterson, Bobby Black and Ivor Broadis all vying for places. His main claim to fame was scoring both goals in a 2-1 win over Dumbarton in the Scottish Cup back in 1960.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 5th February 2007
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was goalscoring midfielder Jamie Adams, second place went to debutant Steve Tosh with Neil Scally in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Match off 5th February 2007
Tonight's Reserve fixture between Morton and Queens at Cappielow has been called off and will now tale place at a later date.

Bill Goldie
A Swift goal 5th February 2007
Nice to see Stephen Swift on the scoresheet in his debut for Irvine Meadow on Saturday. He helped his new club to a 5-0 victory over Lochee Harp in the Scottish Junior Cup by netting the second goal, with two of Meadow's other counters coming from another ex-Queens' player, Charlie Adams.

Bill Goldie
History in the making 5th February 2007
When Queens line up against Hibs at Palmerston in the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup in three weeks time it will be a very special occasion-- the first ever time we've met in this famous competition in our 88 year history.The only other clubs we've never been drawn against are St Mirren and two relative newcomers to the Scottish League, Peterhead and Gretna.

It's a tough tie for Queens but if they could pull off the 'shock of the round' it would be our first appearance in the semi-finals for 57 years. So, keep dreaming!.

Bill Goldie
Good luck 5th February 2007
Good luck to our two Jamies--MacDonald and Adams--who are in the Scotland Uner 21 squad to meet Germany at Broadwood tomorrow night. Kick-off is at 6.00 pm.

Bill Goldie
Tennent's Scottish Cup Draw 4th February 2007
The draw for the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup was made this afternoon and Queens will meet Hibs at Palmerston.

The full draw reads:

Inverness Caledonian Thistle v Celtic
Queen of the South v Hibernian
Motherwell v St Johnstone
Dunfermline Athletic v Partick Thistle

Ties to be played on Saturday, 24th February or Sunday, 25th February

After hearing the draw Chairman, David Rae, stated: "It could have been an awful lot easier but it's at home and that's good. In my younger days I've seen Queens beat the Hibs on numerous occasions, so it's not exactly 'Mission Impossible'. They're a young, skilful team and proved how good they are by beating Gretna 3-1 yesterday. I was at Palmerston the last time we met in the League Cup in 1994. I'm sure Alex McLeish was their manager then, and the crowd was over 5000 even though it was an evening game.

"I'm looking for a 'full house' that day! I'm not sure at this moment in time whether it will be 'all ticket' or not--that will really depend on the police. And it would also be good for the club financially, if it were to be televised".

Nevertheless the Chairman warned, "Although it's always good to get a 'cup run' it does create other problems on the domestic front. We'll now have three midweek fixtures to cram in-- the Clyde match which was postponed; the home game against St Johnstone as we're now on cup duty and a scheduled fixture at home to Hamilton on April 3rd. All those will now have to be played in midweek which means two games a week for our players and not financially viable for the club either, as we never get the same support then.

"Our next three league matches will now all be away from home and none of them are easy. Hamilton, on the artificial surface; Airdrie, a real crucial one and then Gretna at Raydale. We must do our utmost to pick up as many points as possible in these games and try and 'stay with the pack' as we will have an excellent opportunity to stage a fighting finale with seven of our remaining ten fixtures at Palmerston".

Added Ian McCall who said only yesterday that he'd prefer to avoid Celtic and Hibs. "I'm delighted for our fans! Apart from Celtic, it's as hard as we could get, but at least it's at Palmerston. At home we're not without a chance but it will be a really hard game. Obviously we'll start very much underdogs but that's nothing unusual for us this season. We'll go out there and give it our best, we owe it to all our supporters".

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 3rd February 2007
A good professional performance by Queens this afternoon against a stuffy Cowdenbeath side. The visitors were on top in the early stages and put us under a bit of pressure but after Stephen Dobbie slammed home the penalty opener Queens began to get on top. In the second half we played some sterling stuff and after Jamie Adams netted our second in the 54th minute there was only going to be one winner.

But summing up the match Ian McCall admitted, "I thought we were awful in the first half and Cowdenbeath were unlucky to go in at half-time a goal down. We got to grips with the game after the interval! We passed the ball about and played some good football and now we're into the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup for the first time in thirty years so I'm pleased with that. We totally dominated the second half and Jamie Adams scored an excellent goal. I call him the 'big Stranraer fermer' but he had the last laugh today. How Stevie Tosh missed that 'sitter' I'll never know. I could have scored myself with my eyes shut. But considering he'd been out of the game for almost seven weeks he did well".

Asked who he would like in the next round he answered, "I'd prefer to avoid Celtic and Hibs. I don't fear any other side as long as it's at Palmerston." Although banished to the stand for the first of two games the manager kept well in touch with proceedings and at the end confessed, "The icing on the cake was getting back into my office and learning that Dundee had beaten Airdrie United 3-0".

Added the Tennent's Scottish Cup Man of the Match Stevie Tosh, "I may have got the award but three or four of my teammates out there today could well have won it. I was in the Scottish Cup final last season with Gretna and now I'm in the quarter finals with Queens. I don't know how far we will go - maybe even to the final itself - but we're all fully aware that our main priority is keeping Queen of the South in the first division.

"Being out for so long I found it quite hard and when my number came up to be 'subbed' I was glad as the legs were starting to go. But I got a great reception from the Queens fans and I only hope I can prove an asset to the club".

Said youngster Jamie Adams, "I don't score many goals but that was a vital one to get today. I've only been here for eight days and to be in the quarter finals with Queens is brilliant. We really came onto our game in the second half. We defended really well and once we went two up I was confident we'd win. When I left Kilmarnock Jim Jeffries told me to go down and enjoy myself and I'm certainly doing that as all the lads at Palmerston have been great. The first division is a much higher standard than I ever expected and last week I got quite an 'eye opener' how good it actually is".

Attendance 2,264, visiting fans 212.

Bill Goldie
Action Group Update 2nd February 2007
There will be a meeting of the Queens supporters action group on Tuesday 13th February at 7:00pm in the Palmerston Lounge bar (upstairs). All Queens supporters, coaches and staff are welcome to attend. The items up for debate are this years guid neichburris entry, Palmerston tidy up part 2 and a car boot sale.

Ross Corbett
Build up to the Cup - 5 2nd February 2007
To conclude our Cup Build-up we have Sandra Brown, secretary of the QOS Fan Club giving her views on tomorrow's match and reminising on great games of the past.

Sandra has worked as a researcher and broadcaster with the BBC for 18 years and is more used to asking questions than answering them--but this time the roles are reversed and she's the one in the 'firing line'.

Since birth, Queen of the South have been in her blood with her mum, dad, brother and before that even her grandad avid Queens' fans. She recalls, "I attended my first match at Palmerston as a five-year-old and have supported them now for over 30 years". Over the past 19 seasons she hasn't missed a game, home or away, so it's no surprise that she was named the Bell's 'Fan of the Year' in 2005.

Sandra got a lift from the 2004/05 team when she celebrated winning the regional heat of the Bell's 'Fan of the Year' award.
How big is Saturday's cup-tie we asked Sandra, "It's a massive game for us" was the reply. " A good cup run would give us added confidence in the league and may help us pull clear of the relegation zone. It would also bring in much needed finances!. With the club accounts showing a big loss last season we need all the money we can to help us prosper and progress.

Sandra presents Derek Lyle with a Queen of the South Fan Club end of season award

"Cowdenbeath won't be an easy team to beat but if we do make it to the quarter finals I'm not one of those who want us drawn against Celtic at Parkhead" she admits. "Partick Thistle, Dunfermline, St Johnstone or even Deveronvale, if they spring a surprise, would suit me fine. It would give us the opportunity to make it to the semi finals for the first time since 1950.


"Cowdenbeath have always been a bit special for me as I was a mascot when we beat them 6-1 at Palmerston in October 1985. I still remember that afternoon--George Cloy and Stewart Cochrane were both playing and Graeme Robertson was captain". Other memorable games which immediately spring to mind for Sandra was the 6-4 cup victory away to Stranraer earlier that same year with Cloy and Cochrane netting two apiece.


Much more recently the Scottish Cup tie at Motherwell in 2004 when we pulled back from 3-0 down to 3-2 with big Sean getting them both, and that fighting goal-less draw against Aberdeen at Palmerston the year previous.
"Unfortunately we've never really enjoyed a good run in the Scottish Cup for ages" states Sandra. "We've done it in the League Cup (or the CIS Cup as it is now known) and also in the Challenge Cup, which we actually won, so I'm hoping a win over Cowdenbeath tomorrow could be a springboard to success. Not only in the cup, but in the league as well!"

Ian McCall is now a work colleague of Sandra's at the BBC but she admits that it's only since he came to Queens that she really got to know him well.

Of the manager's signings Sandra opted for Neil Scally as her favourite. "He's added a lot more punch to the side" she stressed. "And gives his all in every single game". But another recent acquisition who has impressed her is Stephen Dobbie who she says "Is scoring goals for fun just now". Long may it continue!

And finally, a prediction from Sandra for Saturday, "Queens to win by the odd goal".

That ends our Cup Build-up, so it's all down to the players now. Good luck tomorrow.

Bill Goldie
Boss does a Bush 1st February 2007
"We got 'im". Ian McCall echoed those famous words of president George Bush on the capture of Saddam Hussein, as he delightedly announced the news that the Stevie Tosh transaction was done. The manager was still on a 'high' this morning as he enthused about the deal which saw the former Gretna, Aberdeen and Falkirk player sign a contract through to May, 2009 at 5 pm on Tuesday evening.

He then added, "Stevie admitted at our press conference yesterday that eight or nine other clubs had tabled offers. Ours wasn't the best but he chose to come here to Palmerston which is a real coup. It proved a long, drawn out affair, but he's a class player and in my mind one of the best midfielder in our division".

When Ian McCall first arrived here last November he recognised that the existing squad wasn't strong enough and set about rectifying the situation. Seven players were brought in during the January Window and that enabled us to stave off relegation and was deemed by the fans as 'The Great Escape'.

This season many more new faces have come on board, and of the squad he inherited only seven now remain--Jim Thomson, Eric Paton, Willie Gibson, Paul Burns, John O'Neill, Colin Scott and Scott Robertson--and Willie won't be here much longer. In the recent Window six more players have been signed, albeit three on loan, and the addition of Andrew Barrowman today with take that figure to seven.

The manager's now confident he has a side that can stay up but warns, "It won't be easy, but if we do pull it off it will be an even better achievement than last season".

Bill Goldie
Team News 1st February 2007
Stevie Murray is 'cup-tied' and will miss Saturday's match against Cowdenbeath. Also out is Paul Burns who is suspended while Warren Moon is doubtful with a groin strain. Those who suffered minor knocks last week have now recovered and all the other new signings are included in the squad, including Andrew Barrowman.

Bill Goldie
Barrowman's Back 1st February 2007
Andrew Barrowman returned to Palmerston this evening and signed a contact to the end of the season. He was released by Kilmarnock earlier this week but was able to sign outwith the 'Windows' with him being a 'free agent'. The big striker spent three months 'on loan' with us during October, November and December and although he didn't feature on the score sheet, he did create plenty of chances.

Said Ian McCall, "It now gives us the opportunity to play two big men up front and with Stephen Dobbie up there as well, scoring goals, I'm looking for a higher strike rate".

Bill Goldie
Reserve Fixture 1st February 2007
Queens will meet Morton in the Reserve League on Monday night. The match is at Cappilow with a 7.30 kick-off.

Bill Goldie
Build up to the Cup - 4 1st February 2007
Today on Cup Build-up we feature our latest signing Stevie Tosh who talks about Saturday's game and recalls some of his own experiences in the competition. Said Stevie, "To me there's always something very special about the Scottish Cup for you never know how results will go, and there's always some shock results along the way. Take this year for example! Who would ever have expected Rangers to be knocked out in January.

"So, come Saturday, we can't afford to take Cowdenbeath lightly. I'm a Fife lad myself, born and bred in Kirkcaldy, and my mum's house was only about eight miles away from Central Park. I know how much this game will mean to them all, for if they could make it to the quarter-finals it would be an even bigger achievement than it would be for Queens.
"I know their manager, Brian Welsh, and also Danny Lennon who's up there as well, and they'll be out to make it hard for us. They're a big, strong side and they drew with Morton last Saturday--so it won't be easy! It's a break from league football but we must make sure we get the right result.

At last Stevie in a Queens top
"I was at the cup game with Dundee and I thought Queens played exceptionally well that night. They deserved to win even before it went to 'penalties' but it certainly made it an exciting finish. However, if we don't win on Saturday all that will have been for nothing. If we do win I'd much prefer to be drawn against a team we have a chance of beating and making the semi-finals. Let's be honest, the days of 60,000 crowds at Parkhead against lower league clubs are long gone.

"At home, Queens are doing well just now, and I don't think any side would really relish a visit to Palmerston at the moment. Four years ago I was down with Aberdeen, we came away with a 0-0 draw that day, but boarding the team coach for the journey home we all agreed we were lucky. Big Sean O'Connor was a menace that afternoon and could have scored twice. That was my first game for Aberdeen, so that's why I remember it so well. It was also to be Andy Goram's last appearance for Queens and with him out we won the replay comfortably".
Stevie has his own special memory of the Scottish Cup and it was last year when Gretna met Hearts in the Cup Final. "It was like a dream come true" he recalls. "As a kid at school you think of things like that and scoring the winning goal. We didn't win and I didn't score the winning goal but it was a magic day out and one I'll never forget. We did ourselves proud and we all trooped off Hampden with our heads held high.

"We gave our all and I don't think any of us could have done any better. To go out in a penalty 'shoot-out' was heartbreaking but I wouldn't change that afternoon for anything. With a bit of luck we could have won, but we did help make that Cup Final a spectacle.

Stevie has been 'out in the cold' since December the 9th and can't wait to get back in action again. Admitted the 33-year-old, "That's a long time in football! However, I've been training at Gretna all through that period but it was with the youth squad now supervised by ex-Queens' gaffer, Iain Scott. I had my first training session with the Queens' lads up in Glasgow on Tuesday--even before I'd actually put pen to paper. I'll be training again tonight and tomorrow morning in Dumfries. So, if I'm selected I'll be raring to go even if I am an old codger now".

Tomorrow we conclude our Cup Build-up with a Queens' supporter, Sandra Brown, secretary of the QOS Fan Club.

Bill Goldie
Correction 31st January 2007
A slight correction to our earlier news regarding the Steve Tosh signing, Steve has actually signed up as a Queen of the South player until the Summer of 2009 and not 2008 as we earlier reported.

Bill Goldie
Cup build-up 3 - Manager calls for vocal support 31st January 2007
Ian McCall asked for maximum vocal support for Saturday's crucial cup-tie and stressed, "The more noise from our fans the better! And, having been a player myself I know full well how much it can help. In our last two home games we've played well apart from those last crazy few minutes against Partick Thistle. If we play like we did for the first 80 minutes last Saturday I'm confident we'll win, but if we defend as we did in those last six minutes we'll not. I didn't lay into the players too much at the final whistle for they knew themselves that they had almost 'blown it'.

"To me the Scottish Cup has always been the premier cup competition and it's the one I always looked forward to most as a fan, a player and now a manager. I've been to many exciting cup matches featuring Queens with my father in days gone by, but there's two I'll always remember.

"The first was that epic cup replay at Palmerston in 1976 when we beat Ayr United 5-4 in extra-time. I still vividly recall Peter Dickson collecting the ball on the Stand side with only five minutes left and lopping it over keeper Sproat for the winner. The whole of Palmerston went ballistic--including myself. Three times we were behind in that game but fought back magnificently. That's the kind of spirit I'm after from our players come Saturday.

"The following year we made it to the quarter-finals again but lost 5-1 to Celtic at Parkhead. I was at that one as well and we were much better than the scoreline suggests as two of their goals came from the penalty spot".

But back to this Saturday and the manager says "It's 30 years since we last made it to the last eight and this is possibly the best chance we've had for years. It's also important that we win at the first attempt as the last thing we want is a replay up at Central Park in midweek. However we must show them the upmost respect as they drew with Morton on Saturday and that would have come as a big confidence booster for them.

"So, I can only ask our fans once again--give us your all and get Palmerston buzzing".

Apart from Stevie Murray, who is 'cup-tied', all our new signings are available and should feature at some stage. Willie Gibson, of course, is also free to play as well.

Tomorrow night on Cup Build-up we feature Steve Tosh.

Bill Goldie
'Stat's life 31st January 2007
Saturday will be our fourth meeting with Cowdenbeath in the Scottish Cup--the previous three all being at Palmerston. We first came face-to-face in the competition in 1931 when they beat us 3-2 and went on to reach the quarter finals that year before losing 1-0 to Motherwell. But that was to be Cowden's one and only appearance in the last eight. That match at Palmerston attracted a crowd of 5933 with gate drawings of £234--youngsters would spend more than that on a weekend 'clubbing' nowadays!

Only three years later we met the Central Park men again but this time we got revenge by winning 3-0. 1956 was our most recent clash and a 3-1 victory heralded the start of a good cup run which should have been even better. After drawing 2-2 with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park we then beat them 2-0 at home with Bobby Black and big Jim Patterson scoring.

Next up were Clyde at Palmerston. The Shawfield side were lying second bottom of the table at the time and Queens were tipped as strong favourites to make it to the semi- finals for only the second time in the club's history. But football can be so unpredictable and despite leading 2-0 early on (Jimmy McGill and Patterson scoring) the visitors staged an amazing comeback to triumph 4-2 to shatter our dream.

Bill Goldie
A little detail 30th January 2007
One little detail we left out earlier is that Steve Tosh has signed up as a Queen of the South player until the Summer of 2008.

Bill Goldie
A Queens' player at last! 30th January 2007
Stevie Tosh signed for Queens today and will attend an official Press Conference at Palmerston tomorrow. Speaking to the 'Website' this evening our new signing said,

"I love it here in Dumfries and my partner, Stefanie loves it here too. Our kids are well settled at Noblehill School as well. Dumfries is my home now, we've got a lot of good friends and neighbours here and we're all very happy. I'm a Queens' player now and I'll do all that I can to help my 'local team'.

"Over the last few weeks I've watched Queens a few times and have been most impressed by their performances--especially at home. They may be bottom of the league at present but there's still a long way to go to the end of the season and I'm confident we can stay up in the First Division. They were a lot worse off this time last season and survived and I think we'll do it again.

"I've no divine right to walk straight into the team and I know I'll have to play for my place the same as everyone else. In recent weeks the manager has brought in several quality player which has certainly strengthened the squad. I know a lot of the Queens' players very well--Jamie McQuilken and Andy Aitken were team-mates at Gretna and everybody in football knows big Jim Thomson. I worked under Ian McCall and Gordon Chisholm at Falkirk, so they're no strangers either.

"Now it's all settled I'm really looking forward to playing again".

On the signing Ian McCall said tonight, "It's been a long, long chase but we've got him at last. Obviously he had offers from other clubs but he chose Queen of the South. Stevie loves living in Dumfries which is a big bonus and I'm delighted to have him on board as he is a quality player and the best midfielder in our division".

Bill Goldie
Willie's happy now 30th January 2007
In the aftermath of yesterday's negotiations, Willie Gibson was a happy young man this morning when he spoke to the 'Website'. Said the 'wing wizard', "Talks had been dragging on all through January and it was getting rather frustrating. So I'm delighted that a settlement's been reached at long last.

"The deal suits both myself and Queen of the South although it leaves Kilmarnock a couple of players down with Stevie Murray and Jamie Adams already at Palmerston. But Killie have quite a big squad so I'm sure Jim Jeffries will cope with that".

Added Willie, "The arrangement gives me the chance to up my training as well and prepare for full-time football. On Mondays and Tuesdays Killie and Queens share the same training facilities just north of Glasgow so I'll train Monday and Tuesday mornings with Killie and join Queens for an extra spell on the Tuesday afternoon. Then, on Thursday and Friday I'll train in Dumfries with Queens as usual. You could say I'm getting the best of both worlds! I know most of the Kilmarnock lads pretty well now after my two week training stint with them last month and I'm looking forward to seeing them all again".

By the time he leaves Palmerston, Willie will probably have chalked up over 80 first team games for Queens and recalls,"I'll always remember my debut against Queens Park when I was only 16. I came on as a sub, played well, and was named 'Man of the Match'. Another match I'll never forget was a cup-tie up at Montrose two years ago when I scored my one and only first team goal. But I'd really like to leave on a 'high'. I'd like to see Queens off the bottom of the league and get to the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup--even the semi-finals if possible--and score another goal or two into the bargain. So, I'll be doing my best to achieve that before I say farewell".

Bill Goldie
Cup clash 30th January 2007
The very first meeting of the Doonhamers and the Blue Brazil was actually in the Scottish Cup when the Fifers beat us at Palmerston in 1931. The other two games in the Cup v. Cowden both went Queens way:
1934 - 3-0
1956 - 3-1

BLW (QoS Prog.)
Build up to the Cup - 2 30th January 2007
Cowdenbeath boss, Brian Welsh, is hoping that history might just repeat itself when his side travel to Palmerston for the cup-tie on Saturday. The manager recalls, "I believe we've only made it once to the Scottish Cup quarter finals in the club's 125 year history. That was 76 years ago--away back in 1931! We actually beat Queen of the South at Palmerston en-route to the last eight but were then knocked out 1-0 by Motherwell".
Nevertheless, Brian admits, "This is a massive game for us! We're only a small club who look for a good cup run to provide much needed financial income. Obviously our main priority this season is to stay in Division Two, but success in the cup is always a welcome bonus and gives our fans something to cheer. However, Queens have been in the First Division now for five seasons and that is a remarkable achievement for a part-time club. They'll start heavy favourites, especially having the home advantage, but there's always some surprises in the Scottish Cup and I'm hoping we can spring one of them".

Welsh in action in that Cup final
To get to this stage Cowdenbeath beat Edinburgh University 5-1 then disposed of Brechin City at Glebe Park following a 1-1 draw at home. Added Brian, "I've been sent a couple of reports on Queens and I had someone down on Saturday to watch them against Partick Thistle. What a match that must have been! Normally I would have been at Palmerston myself for their replay with Dundee but as we were playing at Brechin that same night I couldn't manage. We did meet Queens only recently in a Reserve cup tie and beat them in a penalty 'shot-out'. I'd gladly settle for a draw on Saturday and a replay at Central Park--even if it did go to another 'shoot-out' scenario".

In an illustrous playing career Brian spent 11 years with Dundee United and was a member of their famous side who beat Rangers in the 1994 Scottish Cup final--the one and only time United ever lifted the famous trophy. He then moved to Hibs and during his time at Easter Road two of his team mates were a young Eric Paton and Jamie McQuilken.
A severe achilles tendon injury saw him sidelined for two years but he came back to turn out briefly with both Stenhousemuir and Clydebank prior to ending his playing career in Iceland with Valur. He then joined the coaching staff at Cowdenbeath and after the resignation of Mixu Paatelainen in November, was appointed manager at Central Park.

Tomorrow on 'Cup Build-up' our own manager, Ian McCall is featured.

Bill Goldie
From the Manager 29th January 2007
The Cowdenbeath match is a fantastic cup-tie to look forward to and gives us a good chance to progress to the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup for the first time since 1977. It was against Celtic at Parkhead and I remember well attending it with my father. We lost 5-1 but I recall Peter Dickson scoring our only goal and big Chris Balderstone being 'Man of the Match'.

However, we must also remember that Cowdenbeath will look at it as an equally good chance to get to the quarter finals as well, so we must give our opponents every respect.

We have a number of injury problems to contend with! Sean O'Connor, who has been excellent recently, had to come off with a thigh strain on Saturday while Jamie McQuilken had a slight problem with his groin and should really have come off as well. Neil Scally, who was actually sick at half time on Saturday is ill. But the good news is that they all have a full week to recover.

I was extremely pleased with the debuts of all the new boys and I only took young Jamie Adams off at half time because I though he might tire and put in a mistimed challenge that may have led to a second yellow card and a sending off.

With a buzzing Palmerston on Saturday I feel we have a great chance!

Ian McCall
Willie signs for Killie 29th January 2007
Willie Gibson put pen to paper this morning to become a Kilmarnock player at long last. His contract is for three and a half years. But that's not the last we'll see of Willie in the Blue of Queens for, after signing, he'll return to us on an emergency loan for the month of February which will allow him to play in both league and cup matches. Said Ian McCall, "The deal in total is worth between £60,000 and £70,000 to Queen of the South and also involves Stevie Murray and Jamie Adams coming to Palmerston on loan until the end of the season, with Kilmarnock paying their full wages. An additional bonus may also be Andrew Barrowman returning to sign until the end of the season as well". Added the manager, "I'm glad it's all 'done and dusted' as it's been dragging on for a while now and I'm sure all Queens fans will be pleased he'll be with us for another month. If it's down to natural ability Willie will be playing week in week out in the Premier League, but it's all down to him now and I wish the lad luck".

Bill Goldie
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