LATEST NEWS 2007/08
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

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Match reaction 29th September 2007
Despite coming back from a goal down to lead 2-1 a killer strike from John Paul McBride two minutes from time denied Queens a much needed victory. We now slip to 7th spot in the table with Dunfermline and Livvie leap frogging us and the looks on the faces of the Queens fans as they trooped out of the stadium told the story. Gordon Chisholm wasn't at all happy at the end and sighed, "It was definitely another two points dropped, Stirling came here intent on playing a system and they made it difficult for us especially after they scored. You've got to play at tempo and pace to break that down and we didn't do that. We were far too pedestrian. We played a lot better in the second half. Big Sean scored a good goal to put us back in it and then Stephen Dobbie who had come on, worked hard, looked sharp and was rewarded with a goal himself. That should have won the game for us but we allowed ourselves to be pushed back in the last five minutes. It's so silly as it's a bad habit and something we've got to change."

Allan Moore was the happier manager of the two and admitted, "It was a better point for us than it was for Queen of the South, we came to Palmerston with a game plan to frustrate and stop them getting shots on target. It worked well in the first half but after they went 2-1 up I had to change it a bit and John Paul popped up to score a tremendous equaliser. It's another draw but I'll take it."

Sponsors 'man of the match' - Sean O'Connor, Official attendance 1,486, travelling support - 104.

Bill Goldie
Shop news 27th September 2007
We will have a new item in the Club Shop this weekend. It is a very high quality specially commissioned Queen of the South tartan scarf complete with the club badge embroidered into it. It sells for £14 and is sure to sell very quickly.

John Paterson
Team News Latest 27th September 2007
It looks certain they'll be changes in the Queens' line-up to face Stirling Albion at Palmerston on Saturday. Jim Lauchlan is still suffering from a groin strain while Jamie McQuilken hasn't trained since Tuesday owing to a sickness bug. So, both are looking doubtful!

It's the same situation as last week regarding Sean O'Connor. The big striker has a recurring knee problem and his fitness will be assessed prior to the match. Said Gordon Chisholm, "We're just keeping our 'fingers crossed' that Sean will make it as he's such an influential player for us".

Bill Goldie
Programme preview 26th September 2007
Next up in the series of 'Where Are They Now?" in Queens matchday programme is Arnold Coates. A former England Amateur International, Arnold was also included in the Great Britain Football Squad for the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
Arnold signed for Queens in 1963 and played at the club for two seasons, scoring 26 goals in 59 appearances. Now retired and living in Burnley, he still looks out for Queens results - and those of Sunderland - each week.

With apologies for the quality of the photograph, Arnold is pictured here with fellow Queens legend Allan Ball enjoying a pint back in their native north-east. Whilst the picture quality is not that great, it is clear that 'Bally' and Arnold were having a great night!

Colin Rutherford
Albion at Palmy 26th September 2007
With our next two games at home all Queens' fans would be more than happy to get six valuable points on the board to end the first quarter of the season on the 14 point mark.

But manager, Gordon Chisholm, insists, "Of course that would be great but I'm not looking that far ahead. The next game we play is always the most important one and that has been my philosophy all along! We're totally focussed on the Stirling Albion match at present and picking up three points.

"They had a good result last Saturday against Dundee and they'll be coming down here to make it hard for us. Stirling won the 'play-offs' to gain promotion last season and they're certainly not in this league just to make up the numbers. Despite being bottom of the table they've only lost two games and the way things stand three points could shoot them four or five places up the table. It's as tight as that!

"At Firhill on Saturday we probably created more clear-cut chances than we have in any game this season. But we couldn't take them! Most of them came in the second half and fell to big Sean but I wouldn't shoulder any blame on him. He's playing away bravely with a knee injury and sometimes can only train twice a week. He's going into hospital for minor surgery shortly and he'll be sorely missed as he is such an important player for us.

"Their keeper, Craig Hinchcliffe, also pulled off some tremendous saves at crucial times and one header in particular from Jimmy Thomson seemed destined for a goal all the way but he somehow managed to get his fingertips to it.

"However, the bottom line is--we're not scoring enough goals--and that's a factor we cannot overlook. Although we're unbeaten at Palmerston this season we must strive to win our home game--sometimes draws are just not enough. In this league it's so important".

Bill Goldie
Allan's Mr Albion 25th September 2007
Allan Moore brings his Stirling Albion side to Palmerston on Saturday for their first visit to Dumfries in six years. Although languishing at the foot of the table and still seeking their first league victory they have only lost two of their seven matches to date and will be a force to be reckoned with.

Says Allan, "We've drawn five games so far but apart from Hamilton, who beat us 4-0 in our worst performance, no team has had it easy against us. We've held our own and it's a tough league the First Division and you get punished for the least mistake. Make a slip-up and two passes later the ball's in the back of the net.

"This season our aim is consolidation and survival! Our Chairman has been great and we owe it to him to stay in this division. The crowds are bigger and there's a lot less travelling involved--in fact our journey to Dumfries will be the first time we'll need a team bus this season. We adopt a 4-4-2 set-up and try and play attractive football, but we still need that first elusive win to push us up the table. At times we have been naive and it's cost us dearly".

A former Queens' player himself, Allan joined us in December 2001 and adds, "Queen of the South were a good club to play for and I enjoyed my spell there even though it was only five months. John Connolly brought me in from Morton and I was glad for I didn't really enjoy my time at Cappielow. We went on to win promotion that season and I've still got the medal and pictures at home to prove it. We beat Morton 4-0 in the final game in front of a 'full-house' and I scored one of the goals which was pleasing.

Allan Moore enjoying the championship celebrations at Forfar
"Queens have done remarkably well to stay up for five years, particularly as they were a 'part-time' side up until this season. We're now the only 'part-timers' in this league and it's hard to compete when you're only training two nights a week. But Queens have proved it can be done!

"Only Andy Aitken, John O'Neill, Sean O'Connor and Jim Thomson are still left from my day and I was actually on the phone only last night to big Jim for a couple of complimentary tickets. There was a super bunch of lads there then and we had many a good laugh travelling back and forward together".

Allan is now into his fifth season as manager of Stirling Albion and should be proud of what he's achieved. They had just finished bottom of the Third Division when he first arrived but won promotion in two years and another two years later made it to the First Division after a tense 'play-off' scenario. So, the last thing we can do is underestimate them!

Bill Goldie
Travel Club updates 25th September 2007
There were no winners in last weeks Doonhamers travel club fixed odds this weeks prize is £850. The winner of the August 7 out of 8 draw was Jim Burns whose agent was Ross Corbett. Anyone wishing to volunteer to sell fixed odds please see Eck Patterson.

The man of the match results over the three buses to Partick Thistle were 1st S Oconnor, 2nd E Paton, 3rd J Thomson.

The Doonhamers travel club buses to St Johnstone 10:00am and Livingston 10:30am leave as normal from the old Tesco Lochfield Road picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat please phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830.Prices are members adults £5 Juniors £3 non members adults £14 juniors £8.

The Queens supporters action group next car boot sale is on Sunday 7th October from 9:00am-13:00pm to book a car or van please phone or text 07709053987.

The Queens ball boys and girls who are supplied by Lochar Thistle youths AFC would like to thank Craig from Chef Fresh for supplying half time juice for this season.

Ross Corbett
SFA YOUTH INITIATIVE REPORTS 24th September 2007
Only two matches for the youth sides this weekend;

Queen's 15s v Clyde Under 15's

QOS 15s got off to a good start in this Youth Initiative game played at the Dumfries Academy playing fields on Sunday, firstly by welcoming Scott Steele back from a long spell off injured,and then taking the lead when a dangerous cross was turned into his own goal by a Clyde defender. Howvever the visitors were soon back on level terms when QOS keeper Rajovic was deceived by a speculative long effort which found the net. With neither team able to dominate the game the first period ended all square. In the second period QOS began to dominate the game, taking advantage of the strong win, with both Middlemiss and Abdul creating problems for the Clyde defence. Against the run of play, Clyde took the lead but this only served to inspire QOS into lifting their game and pressurising the Clyde defenders at every turn. In one of their many attacks, Middlemiss was upended in the box and Thomson stepped up to convert the resulting penalty kick and once more the period ended level. In the third period QOS continued to dominate play and both Ogston and Reilly went close with good efforts. Once more against the run of play, Clyde scored to take the lead, but the QOS boys never stopped trying and eventually after fine interplay between Parker and Nicol, Middlemiss was able to play in Abdul to score a well-deserved equaliser. The QOS squad deserve great credit for the disciplined manner in which they conducted themselves in a very competitive game.

Livingston 13s v QOS 13s

QOS 13s started well in their away fixture against Livingston on Sunday, the game being played on an Astro-turf surface. Park opened the scoring for QOS when he outstripped the home defence before slotting home. Livingston were soon back on level terms and added two more, one a penalty, to give them the lead at the end of the first period. At the start of the second period the home side scored an early goal to increase their lead, but QOS came back into the game when Park unselfishly squared the ball for McInally to tap home. The home side scored a further two goals late in the period. In the final period Livingston found the net four times, with QOS only able to add one to their tally, through a clever lob from McColm, to complete the scoring for the day. Whilst all born in 1995, like their QOS counterparts, this Livingston side have benefited from playing "above their age" at 1994-level last season and this, and in the absence of a game at Under-14 level, took the 13s fixture today. The additional experience and strength they have gained from playing regularly against older boys proved too much for the QOS team on the day. Hopefully, the experience will prove valuable to the QOS boys, and they can learn lessons from it.

John Paterson
Man of the match 24th September 2007
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the defeat at Partick was Jamie MacDonald, Sean O'Connor was voted into second place with Jim Thomson third.

All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report' page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting.
Match reaction 22nd September 2007
A goal 10 minutes into the game and another 10 minutes from the end was enough to ensure Partick Thistle full points at Firhill this afternoon. Queens actually started very brightly but their inability to find the net was our downfall with Stephen Dobbie, Sean O'Connor and Stevie Tosh all missing chances in the opening six minutes.

In out last two matches we've only scored once--and that was from the penalty spot against Clyde--but with three of the other fixtures in the division ending in draws, we've only dropped two places to fifth spot. The bottom eight are much more tightly placed now, so with our next two matches at home we must make the most of it.

Official attendance was 2419 but our travelling support of around 550 were 'sent home to think again'!

Afterwards Gordon Chisholm insisted that missed chances had cost them the game and added, "In the opening 15 minutes we were the side on top but the remaining 25 belonged to Thistle. Sean missed a great opportunity to equalise just after the interval and that could have made all the difference. Overall I was very disappointed at the number of chances that we actually missed and their second strike killed it off for us. To me their keeper, Craig Hinchcliffe, was 'Man of the Match' and that says it all".

Bill Goldie
Team News 20th September 2007
Queens have doubts over 2 players as they prepare for Saturday's big game against Partick Thistle. Jim Lauchlan had a slight strain but trained this morning and Gordon Chisholm expects him to be okay for Firhill. But it will be a Saturday morning decision as to whether Sean O'Connor takes the field or not. Added the manager,

"Sean had to come off last week but he's such an influential player that we want to give him every opportunity. It's his knee that's causing him all the bother and at this moment in time I rate him 50-50."

Bill Goldie
Firhill for thrills 19th September 2007
Queens head for Firhill on Saturday hoping to get back on the winning track after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Clyde. It's been our best start to a league campaign for four years and we're all hoping it will continue against Partick Thistle. At this time last year we had only a single point to our credit and the year previous just two, so eight points from six outings is a massive improvement. It's our highest league placing since we topped the table under John Connolly back in season 2003-04 so we can't complain.

Our visit to Maryhill will see us going 'head-to-head' with our former manager, Ian McCall--himself a Doonhamer--which no doubt will add that little bit more spark to the occasion but Gordon Chisholm insists it's just another match and they'll be no animosity. Added the manager, "Of course they'll be that extra bit of edge but it's still only a game of football although I do realise it means a lot to our fans.

"I've known Ian McCall for many years. I played with him at Dundee and worked with him at several other clubs. I still speak to him from time to time but for 90 minutes on Saturday we'll be in opposite dug-outs, urging our players on. He's got his job to do and I have mine, but after it's all over, no doubt we'll be sharing a beer in his office irrespective of the result.

"Firhill is never an easy place to go but it does has a good atmosphere. If we can take our chances I'm confident we can get a result and keep our unbeaten run going--especially if we can get the fans behind in the same way they did at Cappielow.

"Although I was disappointed with the draw against Clyde we're now up into third spot and our aim is to stay there and remain up there in the top half of the table for the rest of the season. I'm happy with the start we've had in the league but I still think we could well have had another three points in the bag. We threw away two against St Johnstone and should have had a draw at Dundee as it was never a penalty.

"The only real negative we have at the present moment is the bad injury to Jamie Adams. I rate him the best young midfielder in the First Division and I know how hard our Chairman worked to get him here at Palmerston. He'll be a big loss and I feel heart sorry for the boy! But he's still our player and we'll help him all we can".

Bill Goldie
Lauchie's up for it 18th September 2007
One player looking forward to Saturday's match at Firhill more than most is Jim Lauchlan. Having played under Ian McCall at both Dundee United and Queen of the South the big central defender will now be on the opposing side to his former manager.

Says Jim, "It will certainly add that extra bit of spice to the game! Firhill can be quite an intimidating ground at the best of times and the Thistle fans always let you know what they think of you. Ian McCall brought me to Queens at the start of last season, after I'd left Ross County, and although he's not here now, I've still respect for him. However, there's only one team I want to see win at the weekend and that's us.

"I also know full well how much a victory would mean to the Queens' fans. They'll be up there in their hundreds to cheer us on so we'll be all out to give them the win they want".

Despite missing the first three league fixtures, 'Lauchie' has now slotted back into central defence as if he's never been away, and since his return we've been unbeaten in the league race and conceded only the one goal.

"We've picked up seven points in our last three outings, and that's a big improvement on our disastrous start last season" Jim added. "We all realise we didn't play as well as we can against Clyde, especially in the second half, but the point was still enough to take us up into third place in the table.

"We'll be going into Saturday's match in a confident mood and knowing that a win would keep us up there just behind the two league leaders. Our only defeats so far have been against those two sides (Hamilton and Dundee) who are still unbeaten, and bear in mind we only lost by the odd goal. So we don't fear any team.

"Football's full of 'ifs and buts' and every match is vital. They're not many easy games in our division but there's always a shock or two. Just look back to Saturday with bottom of the table Livvy beating Morton, 4-0. But once we're out there on the park we must stay focussed--it's all in our hands.

Photo by Sandy Robertson
"It's so important we stay solid at the back" he insisted and praised his fellow defenders Eric Paton, Jamie McQuilken and, in particular, Jim Thomson. "I think we do pretty well together. We link up well and know how each other plays. Maybe we're not the two most gifted centre-backs but we go out there, try and win our tackles and do our best. Between us we've been 34 years in the game but Jim's an awful lot older than me so at times I've got to respect his age--only joking big man!

"Seriously though, Jim's a great captain, a good professional who looks after himself and someone young players can look up to. With him you know what you're going to get! He's a true servant for the club, does a lot on the commercial side and in the community as well with all his school visits. To be honest he really is Mr Queen of the South".

Bill Goldie
SFA YOUTH INITIATIVE REPORTS 18th September 2007
Stirling Albion 16s v QOS 16s

QOS 16s made the journey to Stirling on Sunday with the game being played in atrocious conditions. The first two periods ended goalless and in the third period the conditions seemed to affect QOS more than the home side and allied to the fact that some of their squad were playing their third game of the week, due to school games, Stirling scored three times without reply.

With a free week this Sunday it is hoped the boys will come back much refreshed.

Alloa 15s v QOS 15s

QOS 15s travelled to play Alloa15s on their new 'third generation pitch' on Sunday. QOS started well but weren't able to convert any of the chances they created in the first period and it ended goalless. Miller for QOS opened the scoring in the second period, this being the only goal of the period. In the third period Thomson for QOS got on the end of a Declan cross and scored a second for QOS with a fine header. Alloa pulled one back before Miller with his second of the day secured the points for QOS. An excellent team performance from the young QOS squad as Alloa are one of the best respected teams in the league.

QOS 14s v Clyde 14s

QOS 14s faced Clyde one of the strongest sides in their group on Sunday again in terrible conditions. The driving rain and strong winds were not conducive to good football and at the end of the second period neither side had found the net, although QOS had had a couple of goals ruled offside.

Early in the third period QOS had to make changes due to injuries and this gave the visitors the opportunity to score twice in the opening minutes. QOS finished the game strongly but were not able to break down the stout Clyde defence. The QOS coaches were never-the-less very proud of the boy's work-rate and effort and it showed how much they have improved this year when Clyde had really 'turned them over' last season.

QOS 13s v Raith Rovers 13s

In terrible conditions QOS 13s played Raith Rovers on Sunday at the Kingholm. QOS led at the first interval with a goal from Park. In the second period Park was again on target and Davidson also found the net and Park completed his hatrick, before the visitors got on the scoresheet, giving QOS a good lead at the second interval. Raith pulled another goal back at the beginning of the third period but QOS quickly regained the initiative with Chan and Monteith both adding to QOS's total and securing a fine win over a Raith team suffering it's first defeat of the season.

John Paterson
Well done Willie 17th September 2007
Having been on the receiving end of three thumpings from Gretna last season, Willie Gibson found it sweet revenge on Saturday when he scored the opener for Kilmarnock in their 2-1 win at Fir Park. During his six years at Palmerston Willie only once found the net. That was a volley which earned us a 2-1 Scottish Cup victory up at Montrose in January, 2005.

Added Willie, "Gretna are Queens' local rivals so it was great to score against them. They netted 12 against us in three games last season so Saturday's goal was 'one for my old club' and I really enjoyed it".

Killie boss, Jim Jeffries, praised Willie's contribution in the national press saying, "I'm delighted at Willie's progress. We play him on the left flank with Dodds on the right and he's improving with every game he plays".

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 17th September 2007
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the draw with Clyde was Eric Paton, Jim Thomson second and third was Sean O'Connor.

All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report' page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting.
Travel Club updates 16th September 2007
There are still a few seats left on the third Doonhamers travel club bus to Partick Thistle this Saturday to book a seat please phone the hotline on 07834687830 a.s.a.p. so the committee can arrange extra buses or a reserve list.Please note the buses leave old Tesco Lochfield Road at 11:00am picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat and prices are members adults £5 juniors £3 non members adults £14 juniors £8.Also please remember to try to cancel seats before the 6:00pm deadline on Wednesday night to avoid a fine.

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 15th September 2007
A poor match by first division standards and the draw was perhaps a fair result. The game never really came to life until the final ten minutes but Queens must count themselves a trifle lucky as Doug Imrie blasted a second half penalty high over the bar. In the first half Clyde hit the woodwork three times but it was Queens who took the lead when Stephen Dobbie scored from the spot after Neil MacFarlane had been upended in the box. However looking at it from an optimistic angle we didn't lose so we keep our unbeaten home record intact and the point picked up saw us leapfrog Partick Thistle and move into third place in the table.

After the match Gordon Chisholm was naturally a bit disillusioned and commented, "It's so important to get the first goal in this league. We got it this afternoon but didn't make the most of it and we're all disappointed at the final result. You have to win your home games and we had a chance to do so and the goal they scored came from a 'nothing' free kick. Jamie MacDonald knows he could have done better but we're not apportioning the blame to any individual. It was badly defended and we all know that. At times I felt we lost our discipline but there was a fair breeze out there which made it tricky. But looking on the bright side we're now in third place and a month ago I would have grabbed that."

Clyde boss Colin Hendry felt that the penalty against them was soft but added, "I can't complain too much though because we got one as well." Added 'braveheart', "We limited them to a minimum of chances and our defence hadn't too much hard work to do. I was pleased with our overall performance, I thought it was excellent and well engineered."

Said spot kick sinner Doug Imrie, "These things happen, you've just got to get on with it, I tried to put it down the middle but skied it over the bar. However a point's better than nothing away from home. It's never easy at Palmerston."

Sponsors man of the match - Eric Paton. Crowd - 1,730, travelling fans - 234.

Bill Goldie
Bad news for Jamie 14th September 2007
Jamie Adams underwent keyhole surgery on his damaged knee in Sheffield yesterday and unfortunately the news turned out a lot worse than expected. Said a despondent Gordon Chisholm this morning, "It's his cruciate and he will be out at least until the new year. It's a bitter blow for both Jamie and the Club. He's only on loan from Kilmarnock until the end of the year so who knows what will happen after that.

Bill Goldie
Clean sheet for Jamie 13th September 2007
Scotland's Under-21s could only manage a goal-less draw against Denmark at East End Park last night. Jamie MacDonald was again in goal and had a relatively quiet night but was happy to keep a 'clean sheet' and it was only late in the game that he was really called upon. Said Jamie, "Every keeper likes to have a 'clean sheet' and I'm no exception. With the likes of Chris Smith and Andy McNeil sitting on the sidelines I realise I must 'keep on my toes'. It's certainly been an experience playing with the Under-21's in such an important competition and I just hope I can hold my place for our next match against Lithuania at Easter Road. We have only one point from our opening two games but we'll be all out to add to that next month".

Bill Goldie
Latest team news 13th September 2007
Paul Burns has recovered from his sickness bug and should be in the pool against Clyde on Saturday. Neil McGowan is now fully fit and available for selection. A question mark still hangs over Eric Paton and Sean O'Connor. They trained this morning and the manager's hoping both will be in the squad. Out, however, is Jamie Adams who underwent keyhole surgery on his knee in Sheffield this afternoon.

Bill Goldie
Scotland the brave 13th September 2007
In line with the rest of us, Gordon Chisholm enthused over Scotland's superb result in Paris last night and said, "It was a fantastic performance--it made us proud to be Scots! Big Eck has the basis of a good squad there, but he's not the kind of guy to take anything for granted. We've now a great chance to qualify for the Finals which gives us all a welcome lift".

Bill Goldie
Colin to tread new ground 12th September 2007
On paper Queens should start favourites to beat Clyde at Palmerston on Saturday. We've only lost one home league match since Gretna beat us on January 2nd while our visitors have lost their last six away league fixtures. However, as we all know. statistics mean nothing once the teams are out there on the park and anything can happen. Manager, Gordon Chisholm, said earlier this week, "We've won our last two games and we want to keep our run going and build on it". So they'll be no complacency in the camp.

Clyde boss, Colin Hendry, is know to all in football and speaking to the 'Website' this evening states, "I think it will be a tight one! We beat Queen of the South 1-0 in the Challenge Cup at Broadwood only a few weeks ago but I know they had a few players out injured that night. I'd take the same result at the weekend but we won't be underestimating them as they're playing well at the moment.

"We have a lot of youth in our team but they're learning fast. Naturally I'd like to sign some more experienced players but it's not always possible on the budget we have. However, as long as I'm here the youth policy will continue.

"Queens have spent a bit of money during the close season. They have a bigger budget available and pay bigger wages than us, but I'd like to think they'll not be too much between us come the end of the season--and by that I mean in the top half of the table.They've won their last two games and moved up to fourth place in the table while we lost to Partick Thistle at Firhill which was a big disappointment to all our fans.

"I'll be treading new ground on Saturday as I've never before set foot on Palmerston Park. But I'm told it's a nice ground and will be another challenge for our young players against a side packed with experience".

Colin hails from the Highlands, born in Keith, Banffshire and a man of many clubs. His first senior team was Dundee, then it was on to Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City before heading back up the road to Ibrox to play for Rangers. Then he was off to Coventry City, Bolton Wanderers and Preston North End before ending his playing days beside the sea at Blackpool.

He was to become manager at Blackpool but then re-located North of the Border and now resides in Dollar near Tillicoultry and had been 'out of the game' for two years before accepting the managerial post at Broadwood.

Capped 51 times for Scotland, he captained his country when we qualified for the finals of the World Cup in France 10 years ago. Added Colin, "This time around it was the same old Scotland! We never seem to make it easy for ourselves. Nevertheless, I'm pleased to see them doing well and I really hope they make it through".

Bill Goldie
SFA YOUTH INITIATIVE REPORTS 10th September 2007
QOS 16s v Clyde 16s

QOS 16s were at home to Clyde 16s on Sunday, the game being played at the David Keswick Centre, in almost perfect conditions. QOS started well with the midfield duo of Miller and McCann controlling the midfield and with Degnan having a superb game, certainly one of his best-ever games in a QOS shirt, it was no surprise when QOS opened the scoring with a great header from Degnan, following a well-struck free-kick from Miller. Up-front Reilly, with his passing and movement, was giving the visiting defence a hard time and a delightful header from Reilly into the path of trialist Grimley gave the debut boy the opportunity to score and double QOSıs lead which they held to the interval. The second period saw the visitors score an early goal to reduce the deficit. QOS quickly regrouped, and with trialist Miller in midfield winning some important headers and tackles, the period ended without any more scoring. The third period found QOS once more in control of the game without being able to add to their goals tally, Reilly with a flashing left-foot shot hitting the sidenetting, going close. The visitors equalised in the final minutes of the game. Overall a very good performance from the QOS lads, the two trialists both contributing well, and a welcome back for defenders Reid and Dougan, both playing their first games after sustaining injuries at the Milk Cup.

Alloa Athletic14s v QOS 14s

Queen 14s travelled to Alloa on Sunday, the game going ahead on the new all-weather surface of Recreation Park, similar to the surfaces at Stenhousemuir and Hamilton. From the kick-off QOS settled quickly, taking the game to their opponents, playing some excellent football and it was no surprise to see QOS open the scoring, a well-delivered Hutton cross headed home strongly by Dougan, for the only goal of the first period. Alloa were the better side in the second period, forcing an early equaliser, but some stout, brave defending by, in particular, central defenders Anderson and Potts, prevented the home side from adding to their scoreline. Some wise words from the QOS coaches at the second interval saw an immediate improvement with Johnstone netting a hatrick, two from headers and a shot from the edge of the box to put QOS well ahead. In the final minutes Alloa found the net to reduce their deficit. Another very good performance from this young 14s squad, delighting the coaches and friends in attendance.

Morton 13s v QOS 13s

Queens 13s travelled to Port Glasgow on Sunday looking to get back on track after last weekıs defeat, and started very well, taking the lead in the opening minutes, McColm, shooting home from the edge of the box. The home side equalized almost immediately, but Queens soon retook the lead when Park outstripped the home defence to slot home. Again Morton brought the scores level, but Park soon restored QOSıs lead, and Chan added another goal to give Queens a comfortable lead at the end of the first period. Morton reduced their deficit at the beginning of the second period, but Syme for QOS quickly reinstated their advantage and then Park scored to complete his hatrick for the day, with McInally also getting on the scoresheet for QOS, with the home keeper pulling off some excellent saves to prevent QOS going further ahead in this period. Early in the third period QOS trialist Carlton found the net, only for it to be adjudged offside, and soon after the home side pulled a goal back. QOS continued to control the game and Park, whose pace had bothered the home side all day, ran through and coolly rounded the keeper to net his fourth goal of the day. In the final minutes of the game, Chan raced through to net his second, and complete the scoring for the day. Queens played very well throughout the match, with the intelligent passing play of Syme from midfield utilizing the pace of Park and Chan up-front, and Davidson and McColm on the wings, so that chances were created at regular intervals, with the finishing being exceptional on the day. This was a very good result against a good Morton side, and sets the boys up for the visit of Raith Rovers next week.

John Paterson
Fan Power could help--but no Jamie Adams 10th September 2007
Gordon Chisholm is looking for 'Fan Power' to help make it three wins in a row for rejuvenated Queens on Saturday. But, alas, he will be minus Jamie Adams who is out with knee problems.

Talking to the 'Website' this afternoon the manager said, "We've won our last two games so it's important we keep the winning run going and build on it, particularly as we have home advantage. Naturally we go out to try and win every match but it's especially pleasing to do well at home and give our fans something to shout about.They were great up at Cappielow and gave us such a lift in the closing stages when we needed it most, so I'm hoping for more of the same come Saturday.

"With us 'on a run' I'm reluctant to change a winning team, for I know how hard they're all trying to 'keep the jersey'. However, Eric Paton's shoulder is still giving him a bit of bother and 'Burnsy' has been laid low with a sickness bug--so they could both be doubtful. Neil McGowan might be back but we'll definitely be without Jamie Adams.

"He took a knock in the 'bounce' game against Rangers at Murray Park last week and although we gave a good performance against a decent Rangers' side, that 'put a damper' on it. It's his knee that's giving him trouble and I feel sorry for the lad as he's just come back from a hernia operation and came on as sub for the last 20 minutes up at Morton. Jamie's going down to Sheffield on Thursday for keyhole surgery, but we don't think it's too bad and I'm hoping he'll be back in a couple of weeks.

"We've got Clyde on Saturday and I've already stressed how much it means to keep winning. Clyde knocked us out of the Challenge Cup last month so we'll be all out for revenge. They'll be as keen as us to pick up the points as they currenty sit second bottom of the table but, as I've said so many times before, there's no easy games in this league!

"They have a new manager in Colin Hendry, a former Scottish captain. I've met Colin a couple of times but I don't really know him all that well. Nevertheless, what I do know, he'll be all out to win and move up that table! "On the subject of Scotland, I though they did really well against Lithuania and the win puts us right up there 'in the mix' to qualify for the finals. It would be a real boost for Scottish football if we could win through. I don't think that was ever a penalty when the Lithuanian went down in the box, but in the end in was a great result and a good job done although I've must admit I was a wee bit worried when they got that equaliser".

Bill Goldie
Not so good for Jamie 9th September 2007
While Scotland were doing us proud by defeating Lithuania 3-1 at Hampden on Saturday, it wasn't a good day for the Scotland Under-21's who went down 3-2 in Finland. In goal was our own Jamie MacDonald and to make matters worse the winning goal game in the final minute.

The Scot's boys have a 'mountain to climb' to make it through to the European Finals in Sweden and Wednesday night's clash with Denmark is now a 'must win' game. But we wish them luck.

Bill Goldie
MP to travel 7th September 2007
In a Press Release today from Russell Brown, Member of Parliament for Dumfries and Galloway Constituency, he states;
MP TO JOIN QUEENS FANS ON TRIP TO DUNDEE F.C.
AS FANS COMPLAIN AGAIN OF HEAVY-HANDED STEWARDING AT DENS PARK
Local MP Russell Brown will join Queens fans on their trip to the club's next match at Dundee FC's Dens Park to see for himself how the authorities deal with supporters, after fans complained again about heavy-handed policing and stewarding.

Members of the Doonhamers Travel Club have complained to Russell Brown about their treatment by police and stewards during Queen of the South's visit to Dundee FC's Dens Park on Saturday 11 August. According to fans, stewards conducted full body searches upon them entering the stadium, and while in the stands they were subjected to intimidating and provocative behaviour from police and stewards.

This follows on from complaints the MP received last season from Queens fans about poor treatment by over-zealous stewards at Dens Park during a match last season. In particular fans were angry at being refused entry to the stadium with a horn or a rattle.

Russell Brown has contacted Tayside Police about the fans' concerns, but he is now keen to see for himself how away fans are treated at Dens Park. He therefore intends to travel with Queens fans to Queen of the South's next away league match at Dundee next January.

Russell Brown said, "Until last season Queens fans had never complained to me about their treatment at away matches, but now twice in the space of 18 months the Travel Club has seen it fit to raise their concerns about heavy-handed policing and stewarding at Dens Park. Queens fans have no reputation for bad behaviour at away games, and I know that at most other grounds they are welcomed and treated with respect.

"Sadly Dundee now have a reputation amongst Queens fans for being over-zealous in their treatment of away fans. Indeed when I contacted the club last year after fans complained, they told me stewards were correct to refuse entry to fans with horns and rattles because they could cause injury! This attitude isn't adopted for Scotland games at Hampden, so why the authorities at Dens Park do who knows?

"And the need for full body searches seems questionable too. I've travelled to many Queens away matches in the past, and to football matches all over the country, and to my knowledge not even in the SPL is it regular practice to search fans before they enter a stadium.

"I regularly attend Queens matches when I can, but the next trip to Dundee is one I definitely intend to be at so I can see for myself how away fans are treated at Dens Park- and of course to hopefully cheer Queens on to victory!"
Down Memory Lane 6th September 2007
With no match to talk about this coming Saturday, apart from the Scotland International of course, we thought we'd take a trip 'Down Memory Lane' and publish an updated chart of our top scorers and top appearances which includes many well known names from the past:
Top twenty goal scorers
Jim Patterson
251
Bobby Black
120
Andy Thomson
114
John Dempster
98
Tommy Bryce (Mk II)
95
Stevie Mallan
94
Tommy McCall
93
Ian Reid
89
Jimmy Robertson
89
Jackie Oakes
81
Iain McChesney
79
Rowan Alexander
78
Billy Houliston
74
Jacky Law (Snr.)
71
John O'Neill
68
Lex Law
68
Jimmy Rutherford
66
Willie Dougan
65
Kenny Dick
64
Tommy Bryce (Mk. I)
64

Andy Thomson celebrates No. 114

Jonjo is mobbed after scoring No. 68
Top twenty appearances

Bally shows his colours

JT and Andy
Allan Ball
731
Iain McChesney
615
Jim Patterson
462
Jackie Oakes
457
Dougie Sharpe
431
Jim Kerr
403
Jimmy Robertson
400
Roy Henderson
381
Willie Savage
369
Alan Davidson
364
John Dempster
355
Bobby Black
346
Nobby Clark
340
George Cloy
334
Lex Law
332
Crawford Boyd
321
Tommy Bryce (Mk. II)
297
Andy Aitken
295
Jim Thomson
295
Jimmy Binning
288
Note: The above appearances include 'subs on' only. When it comes to presentations the club itself recognises 'starts' only. This makes it an 'even playing field' for those involved before the substitute rule came into force in the late 1960s.

Bill Goldie
Junior Blues winner 5th September 2007
Junior Blue, Lois Wright from Dumfries won our t-shirt design competition. As well as a Junior Blues Season ticket, Lois was presented with her winning design before the recent Livingston match, by Board Director Colin Rutherford. The JB Club shirts are on sale and are available from the Supporters High St stall (9am-1pm Saturdays on home matchdays) and at the East Stand stall (1:45-3pm and at half-time). They cost £7, are available in both Royal Blue and yellow, and 50p from the sale of each t-shirt will go to the Childrens ward at Dumfries Royal Infirmary.



David Linden

Colin presents Lois with her design on the T shirt
Neil has his say 4th September 2007
Saturday's great victory at Cappielow not only earned us our first away win of the season but also gave us three more precious points, two 'clean sheets' on the trot and fourth place in the table. Have we now 'turned the corner' was the question all our fans are now asking?

One player who was right in the thick of the action at Morton was Neil MacFarlane who says,"As results go I'd say yes, we've turned the corner! Six points in our last two games has everyone at the club on a 'high' and gives us all a platform to build on. But, to be realistic, suspensions and injuries contributed greatly to our poor start plus a very difficult run of fixtures.
"However, we're now up to fourth place with seven points and looking forward to the home game with Clyde. Although we've no match this Saturday we'll still be up at Glasgow Green training as usual but I'm sure they'll be a much more positive feeling in the camp now. Almost everyone's back and we're all playing for our places--no player has the divine right to walk into the team and that's how it should be.

"Losing to Dundee and Hamilton was disappointing, but looking at the league table they're both still unbeaten and way out there in front. So we've got to accept they were two very hard games. The biggest setback was only managing a draw with St Johnstone when we were 3-1 up. That was two points thrown away!

"It's been a big boost having Jim Thomson and Jim Lauchan back at the centre of the defence. That's certainly helped as they're two vastly experienced players. What we need now is a winning run like Queens had towards the end of last season, especially at home, to keep the fans happy. They deserve it!

After his 35 yarder against St Johnstone
"It's been a big boost having Jim Thomson and Jim Lauchan back at the centre of the defence. That's certainly helped as they're two vastly experienced players. What we need now is a winning run like Queens had towards the end of last season, especially at home, to keep the fans happy. They deserve it!

"But don't forget we're competing in a tough division. Just look at Dunfermline and Livingston who were relegated from the Premier League and are now languishing in the bottom half of the table. Also St Johnstone who were one of the big favourites for promotion. Try asking them how hard it is!

"They'll be a lot of twists and turns as the season progresses. We 'rode our luck' a bit at Cappielow on Saturday but it was us who got the all-important goal. When the final whistle blows that's all that matters".

Bill Goldie
Gers warm up 4th September 2007
Queens took on Rangers in a 'behind closed doors' practice match that served to bring several players further back towards match fitness. Despite losing 2-0 to strikes from Chris Burke and Alan Gow Queens had a useful outing. The team contained mainly first team squad members with Stephen Grindlay, Eric Paton, Jim Lauchlan, Neil Scally, Brian Gilmour, David Bingham and Scott Robertson amongst those on show.

For a selection of pictures from the game click HERE.
SFA YOUTH INITIATIVE REPORTS 3rd September 2007
QOS 14s v Queens Park 14s

QOS 14s started well in their third game of the season when they played Queens Park 14s at the Kingholm on Sunday.In the first period both Johnstone and Dougan went close for QOS before Johnstone broke the deadlock, knocking the ball home from close range following a good build-up. QP were not out of it at this stage and only a combination of some good defensive play and a number of good saves from QOS keeper Morrison retained QOSıs lead at the interval. QOS took control of the game in the second period scoring three times without reply, the first an Œown goalı then two more from Johnstone to complete his hattrick with a special mention for his strike partner, Douglas, who unselfishly set him up for both goals. It was no surprise that the third period was a much quieter affair with some tired legs beginning to show with the QOS defence ably marshalled by Anderson coping comfortably with the rare QP attacks. This was another good all-round team performance with every member of the squad contributing and retaining QOSıs, so far, winning streak.

Queens Park 13s v QOS 13s

QOS 13s went down to their first defeat of the season at the hands of a very-impressive Queens Park team at Bishopbriggs on Sunday. QP started strongly, and their passing game brought two early goals before the young QOS team had settled, firstly cashing in on a defensive mix-up to open the scoring, and then heading home from a corner for their second. QOS finally got a foothold in the match, with Syme hitting the cross-bar from distance, and the home keeper twice preventing the hard-working Chan from getting a well-deserved goal. Early in the second period, Q P increased their lead with a well-worked goal, but QOS continued to battle hard, and were rewarded when Davidson reduced the deficit. The third period started with the award of a penalty to the home side, but Martin in the QOS goal pulled off a great save. This spurred the young QOS team on, and they enjoyed their best spell of the match, putting QP under pressure, with McInally hitting the post and Park twice going close. In the final minutes QP scored the final goal of the day with a well-struck free kick, giving QOSıs keeper no chance. The young QOS team earned praise from the coaches for the effort and commitment shown, and for the way they kept trying to play football. On the day, they came up against a well-organized team who played a good, passing game at pace, and it showed both the players and the coaches the level and style of play which they must hope to attain to. The coaches were particularly pleased with the attitude of the players, who didnıt let their heads go down. A special mention must go to Corie Wilson, who inspired his team-mates to keep going, even when the match wasnıt going their way.

John Paterson
Travel Club updates 3rd September 2007
The man of the match over the three Doonhamers travel club buses at Greenock on Saturday was 1st S Oconnor 2nd J Thomson 3rd P Burns

There were no winners in last weeks Doonhamers travel club fixed odds and this weeks prize is £700.

Well done to the hardy few volunteers who braved the weather once again to help organise the Queens supporters action group car boot sale and raise over £500 extra special thanks must go to Queens young fanatic Liam Mambo Cullen for once again turning up to help.

Ross Corbett
Man of the match 3rd September 2007
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award for the away win at Morton was Sean O'Connor with Jim Thomson second and Neil Scally third.

All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report' page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting.
Cappielow banter 2nd September 2007
Nice to see Peter Weatherson having a good chat to his former Palmerston team-mates, Andy Aitken and John O'Neill, before yesterday's game. He also met up again with Eric Paton and Sean O'Connor and was seen engaged in some friendly banter with big Jim Thomson on the field just prior to kick-off.

Newcastle born Peter was great goal getter and a big favourite with Queens' fans and arrived at Dumfries in season 2000-01 when John Connolly took over as manager and started a North-East 'invasion'. Now 27 and speaking bi-lingo with a Geordie cum Scottish accent he says, "I'm really looking forward to coming down to Palmerston again in November. I spent three good years there and have loads of happy memories and won League Championship and Challenge Cup medals into the bargain".

Peter was transferred to the Cappielow side in the summer of 2003 for a fee of £30,000 and has been a first team regular up there ever since. Although now playing in a more defensive role he is still one of their leading marksmen.

Morton themselves had a fair smattering of ex-Queens' men in their line-up--skipper Stewart Greacen, Kieran McAnespie and, of course, Peter Weatherson himself. Another connection was Annan born striker, Iain Russell, who was signed just before the August 'Window' closed.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 1st September 2007
Queens staged a tremendous rearguard action to pull off a great 1-0 victory against a sprightly Morton side this afternoon. Queens hadn't lost to Morton at Cappielow for eight years and they grabbed a clean sheet for the second week running and now share third place with Partick Thistle. Although the homesters had the bulk of the pressure Queens always looked dangerous on the break and it was Sean O'Connor who slipped in the winner right att he start of the second half. Our fans had some nervous minutes as they waited for the final whistle to blow and when it did they celebrated.. Said Gordon Chisholm afterwards;

"Away from home our results haven't been good so I am delighted to pick up these three points today. We didn't play too well in the first half but raised our game after the interval and I was pleased with that. Sean took his goal well and fortunately for us it came at a crucial time. We're always under pressure in away games so to keep a clean sheet as we did means that you've always got a chance of a result. Our fans were superb and were magnificent when we needed them so I'm happy for them as well."

Added our goal hero, Sean O'Connor, "Sometimes you need to 'win ugly' and we did that out there today. You have to grind out results in this league, but it's three points and I'll take that. Dobbs doesn't normally leave chances for me but he did this afternoon and I stuck it into the net."

Morton manager Jim McInally was naturally very disappointed but stated, "I've no complaints at the team performance only at the result. It's a hard, hard league and you get punished for every little mistake. Our keeper only had one real save to make and that was in the ninetieth minute."

Official attendance - 2,804, travelling support - 372, the largest at Cappielow this season.

Bill Goldie
Team news 30th August 2007
Neil McGowan is still nursing a thigh strain and is the only player definitely unavailable for Saturday's visit to Morton. Eric Paton and Jamie Adams both trained this morning and if there's no adverse reaction they'll return to the squad. But manager, Gordon Chisholm insists, "If there's any doubt whatsoever we won't risk them. I'm not going to rush it since we've got most of the lads back now and we've a two week break coming up for the International matches. Andy Aitken pulled out of training today with a groin strain so we'll be keeping an eye on him as well.

"For the first time this season I'll have the luxury of pratically a full squad to choose from and I'll take that any day. We played well last week with Jim Thomson and Jim Lauchlan solid in defence, so there won't be many changes".

Bill Goldie
Travel Club updates 30th August 2007
The three Doonhamers travel club buses to Morton this Saturday are full a stand by list is now in operation to put your name down please phone 07834687830 a.s.a.p.The buses are leaving from the old Tesco building Lochfield Road Dumfries picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat.The committee have decided to further subsidise the buses for this match prices for members are adults £5 juniors £3.

This Sunday 2nd September the Queen of the South supporters action group are holding a car boot sale 9:00am until 1:00pm in the main car park at Palmerston all vehicles must be booked by phoning or texting 07709053987.The action group still need more volunteers to run the car boot sale everyone is welcome for more information please phone Ross on 07809490650.

Ross Corbett
All set for Cappielow 29th August 2007
Queens set off for Cappielow on Saturday and it will be the first time in over five years that we've played Morton up there. Apart from a couple of Reserve fixtures, the last time we faced each other was a day of great celebation for Queens but an afternoon of pure misery for the Morton support.

It was April 27th, 2002, and we'd just clinched promotion to Division One at Forfar a week earlier. A huge crowd of 6158 packed into Palmerston to cheer on a 4-0 victory, but poor Morton were already relegated.

Earlier that year we beat them 6-5 at home in another game which will long be remembered as it was a night of high winds and torrential rain, and that very same season we also knocked then out of the Scottish Cup, so they'd be glad to see the back of us .

6158 watch the Champions

The Greenock side won promotion last season after two successive years of 'coming so close', and have started their league campaign very well. They were unbeaten until last Saturday when they went down 2-0 at home to league leaders, Hamilton, but prior to that had netted 16 goals in their previous four league matches at Cappielow.

If we could take maximum points up there it would be a major achievement and could effectively see us move up to fourth place. But, let's not kid ourselves, it won't be easy!

Bill Goldie
Manager upbeat 28th August 2007
After racking up victory number one against Livingston at the weekend, it was a more upbeat Gordon Chisholm who spoke to the 'Website' this afternoon.Said the manager, "It was great to get that first win and we must now try and build on it. I was always confident we could compete with any side in our division once we got players back, but it took a while in coming".
We're now up to fifth in the table, so would you settle for that at the end of the season we asked. "This league is going to be so tight" he stressed. "My first priority is to get away from the bottom end of the league and into the top half. The last thing I want is to be struggling at the foot as we have done those past two seasons.

"I'm not getting carried away after only one win for we really should have had six points by now. But we've more depth in the squad than before and still more bodies to come back, and I'm happy at that. Every single player is competing for a place and there can be no complacency in the squad. If they get a jersey they'll have to hold on to it, as they'll always be a team-mate waiting in the wings to grab it off them. I'll have some difficult decisions to make but it's a predicament I'll gladly accept after the problems we've had over those past few weeks".

Difficult decisions
Looking back to Saturday Gordon insisted, "I was really pleased with both the attitude and effort which was first class and the result was everything. We also kept a 'clean sheet', created loads of chances and I couldn't have counted them all on one hand. Their big keeper was 'Man of the Match' by a mile. I never rated him too much--but I do now! Over the piece we thoroughly deserved the win, but it should have been by a much bigger margin.

"On Saturday we head for Cappilow which is never an easy place to pick up points. Normally a draw away from home in this league is acceptable, but if we are to challenge in the top half we'll have to collect a win or two along the way. To do so at Morton would be something special. A real bonus!

"They lost at home to Hamilton on Saturday, their first defeat of the season, and no doubt they'll be all out to redeem themselves. When you look at the league table and see the two form teams, Hamilton and Dundee both still unbeaten and 'flying' at the top, it doesn't make our odd goal defeats at Dens and Douglas Park look quite as bad".

The manager doesn't envisage bringing in any new faces prior to the tranfer 'Window' closing on Friday. He adds, "It would only happen if it was someone a bit different to what we have, someone a bit special".

On Andy Aitken he reiterated, "He's been told he can move on if he finds a suitable club. But he's very professional and still working away hard on the training ground. He really 'clattered' me during this morning's session--I think he's trying to tell me something! If nothing happens Andy will be 'available for selection', the same as everyone else, for Saturday's match".

Bill Goldie
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