LATEST NEWS 2007/08
| For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.
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| New signing | 31st January 2008 |
Just prior to the tranfer window closing at midnight tonight, Queens signed Craig Reid from Celtic. A defender, he can play either right-side or centre of the park and he joins us on a 18 month contract. The 21-year-old was out on loan to Stirling Albion but had returned to Parkhead.
Bill Goldie |
| ADMISSION PRICES - Morton v QOS | 31st January 2008 |
The Admission prices for this match will be as follows:
MAIN STAND Adults : £15.00 Concessions : £9.00 Parent & Child : £19.00 TERRACING Adults : £13.00 Concessions : £8.00 Parent & Child : £17.00 Queen of the South supporters should enter the ground at the East Hamilton Street entrance. |
| COUNTDOWN TO THE CUP | 31st January 2008 |
As the build-up to Saturday's cup-tie gathers momentum the top two strikers involved, our own Stephen Dobbie and Morton's Peter Weatherson, talk about the match.
First up was Stephen Dobbie who was our 'hat-trick' hero on our recent visit to Cappielow. Said 'Dobbs', We've enjoyed a great run of form in recent weeks and we're hoping to take it into Saturday's match. The boys are playing well and we're all up for the challenge of the cup. We're after a quarter-final place, but we know full well it's going to be a hard one. "Morton beat Gretna 3-0 on Monday night which was no mean feat and I'm sure they'll be out to avenge that 3-0 beating we gave them two weeks ago. As I was the one who got the 'hat-trick' I'll be a marked man but I'll treat it as a compliment. It's only the second 'hat-trick' of my professional career, the earlier one coming when I was at Hibs". Of the three goals at Cappielow what one did you rate the best we asked. "They were all different" he explained. "But if I had to single out just one I'd go for the second. It was from long range and caught the keeper completely off guard. "I've been told what the Morton manager Jim McInally said about kidnapping me from the bench and locking me in a cupboard till after the final whistle. Again I'll take it as a compliment, but all I can say is he might never get the chance as I hope I'm on from the start. But football's a team game and the manager's always got difficult decisions to make. He's on a 'hiding to nothing' at times, especially now he's got almost a full squad back. Everyone wants to play but he can only put 11 bodies on the park". Peter Weatherson will be adamant that 3-0 league defeat is behind them and Saturday will be a totally different game. That will be all in the past and he and his team mates will be looking to the future now. They'll still be 'on a high' following that impressive 3-0 win over Gretna on Monday night. Not many gave them much of a chance against the Premier League side but, after they scored that opening goal, there was only going to be one winner. Palmerston appears to be a lucky ground for Peter. In his three year spell with Queens the 'hit-man' knocked in close on 50 goals for us--and some memorable ones at that. The Queens' fans in the 1441 crowd were all for him on Monday but he knows it will all be so different come Saturday. Earlier this season the likeable Geordie insisted, "I'll never say a bad word against the Queens' supporters as they've always treated me fairly and with respect. They gave me some pelters with my Rab C. Nesbitt bandage the last time I was down but out of mutual respect I didn't over celebrate when I scored". The mood in the Morton camp must be one of confidence after that Gretna result and with home advantage they'll be keen to win for the sake of their fans. And a place in the quarter-finals is the best reward they could give them. They'll be out in force with the whole of Greenock behind them but that shouldn't worry the Queens' players too much. We've already beaten them twice at Cappielow this season and they've yet to score against us. So that thought might just be prying on their minds. They'll be a tremendous atmosphere so let's all hope for a memorable cup-tie. Bill Goldie |
| Team news | 31st January 2008 |
With the exception of recent signing Robert Campbell, who is 'cup-tied', Queens will have the same squad as last week for the cup-tie against Morton on Saturday. With snow forecast all fans are advised to check before setting off for Greenock.
Bill Goldie |
| COUNTDOWN TO THE CUP | 30th January 2008 |
Gordon Chisholm is both excited and upbeat for Saturday's cup tie against Morton and insists Cappielow will be buzzing. "The atmosphere will be electric" added the manager "And they'll be a big partisan crowd. Cappielow always reminds me of Falkirk's old Stadium, Brockville. The fans are right up close and you can almost touch them. It can be quite intimidating but great for Scottish Cup football.
"If I was totally honest I wanted Gretna at Palmerston for the sake of our fans and the financial rewards for the club itself. It would have given our supporters the home tie they were craving for and the team home advantage. However, it was not to be! But, on hindsight, a tie at Morton could work out just as exciting and almost as rewarding if all the stories I'm hearing of a 4000 plus gate are true. "I watched the match on Monday night and I've got to say the better team won. All credit to Morton who were well worth their victory--they were the hungrier side in the second half and displayed a tremendous will to win. "We've had a good run of form ourselves over the last five or six weeks and we intend to keep the momentum going. We've already won twice at Cappielow this season, but this is the Scottish Cup we're talking about, so we're taking nothing for granted. No two games are the same and we'll plan our strategy accordingly. A place in the quarter-finals is at stake and we'll be up for it. "We went out to Hibs at this stage last year, so we aim to go one better this time around. Peter Weatherson is their danger man and seems to enjoy scoring goals against us, but we'll be treating the whole Morton team with the greatest respect. Gretna didn't expect to lose on Monday night and Hamilton must have been shocked to be knocked out at Brechin so we must stay focussed on the task in hand. It will give us a welcome break away from the rigours of the league but we must be up for the challenge if we are to succeed". Bill Goldie |
| Travel Club News | 30th January 2008 |
The Doonhamers travel club are now running a fourth bus to Greenock this Saturday at the moment there are five seats left.To book a seat please phone 07834687830.Would everyone please note as usual the travel club coaches operate a strict no alcohol policy.Would everyone also note that anyone who fails to cancel their seat or cancels after tonights 7:00pm deadline will be fined £10.
Ross Corbett |
| Youth Reports | 29th January 2008 |
QOS 16s v St Johnstone 16s
QOS 16s entertained St Johnstone 16s on Sunday, and despite the recent heavy rain, the game going ahead at the David Keswick Centre. QOS started well, creating a number of early chances but allowed Saints into the game, losing two goals in quick succession. Undaunted QOS fought back and Degnan set up Reilly, whose excellent first touch left his marker stranded, before smashing home a great strike. Early in the second period QOS drew level. A long throw-in from West into the box wasnıt cleared properly and Reilly pounced to knock the ball home from six yards. But once more, some lapses in concentration allowed Saints to re-instate their two-goal advantage before the end of the second period. In the third period QOS clawed their way back into the game when trialist Burgess, who had a good game, reduced the deficit with a fine strike and a goalmouth scramble allowed Liam Johnstone to score a deserved equaliser. Overall an inconsistent performance from QOS who never-the-less showed great character to come back twice from a two-goal deficit. Clyde 15s v QOS 15s QOS 15's resumed their league fixtures with an away match on the astroturf at Broadwood Stadium . On a blustery day QOS got off to a reasonable start and Abdul quickly troubled the opposition defence going close on a couple of occasions. Against the run of play Clyde took an early lead, however, almost immediately QOS equalised through Middlemiss. After a period of sustained pressure QOS scored, an excellent 30 yard free-kick from Thomson giving the home keeper no chamce. In the second period Clyde took advantage of the conditions and scored twice in quick succession to take the lead. QOS continued to make some excellent chances but unfortunately could not convert them into goals despite the efforts of Middlemiss and Abdul. In the third period QOS continued to press but Clyde added two more without reply and to complete a disappointing day, the referee failed to give a handball decision against Clyde, despite both sets of players stopping, and Clyde scored their final goal of the day. Hopefully the team will return to their usual high standard of performance in their home fixture against Livingston FC next Sunday. QOS 14s v Stirling Albion 14s Due to the weather conditions this game was switched to the KGV park on Sunday morning. Stirling settled to the game quicker but it was QOS who opened the scoring, Dougan beating the Albion keeper with a fine low shot just inside the post. Despite QOS creating a few more chances, the scoreline remained unchanged at the first interval. Early in the second period QOS doubled their advantage, Johnstone knocking the ball home. Stirling came back into the game but the QOS defence stood firm and the second period saw no more goals. The third period saw both teams showing signs of tired legs but QOS added two more goals, Johnstone and Dougan both finding the net and with Stirling unable to break down the QOS defence the first game back after the winter break saw QOS secure a comfortable win. Queensı Park 13s v QOS 13s QOS 13s resumed their season with a difficult trip to Lesser Hampden to face a strong Queens Park squad. The first period was very even, with both teams playing good football, but as the period drew to a close, two unfortunate own-goals gave the home side the advantage. The second period was again very keenly contested, and only a single goal was scored, again going to the home side after indecision in the QOS defence allowed the QP striker an easy finish from close range. As the QOS team tired in the third period, Queens Park went on to score a further three goals, and QOSıs day was summed up in the last minute when they missed the opportunity to get on the scoresheet, with a penalty being squandered. Whilst the scoreline suggests an easy victory for Queens Park, this was anything but. For the first two periods, both teams made and missed chances, with good goalkeeping and defending being the order of the day. The two own-goals were both unfortunate, but had a large bearing on the outcome of the match, and it was only in the final period that there appeared to be any gulf between the sides. The QOS coaches are of the opinion that, despite the scoreline, there is great cause for optimism on the back of the overall performance. John Paterson |
| COUNTDOWN TO THE CUP | 29th January 2008 |
As the Morton team coach slid quietly out of the Palmerston car park last night their gaffer, Jim McInally, could well have been harbouring a secret wish that Saturday's fifth-round Scottish Cup tie was at Dumfries rather than Cappielow. After a great second-half performance he had just witnessed his troops beat Premier League Gretna 3-0 with ex-Queens' favourite, Peter Weatherson, the destroyer-in-chief and the bandaged Stewart Greacen (another former player) the 'Man of the Match'.
Earlier in the season Weatherson had been their top man down here when the 'Ton' beat us 3-1, so no wonder the manager must have been thinking that 'Palmerston's the place to play'. Also on his mind is the fact that we've already beaten Morton twice on their own patch this season--1-0 back in September and 3-0 just recently. Speaking to the 'Website' this morning he said, "On the way home last night that fact actually crossed my mind" then joked, "We'll just have to hold them to a draw on Saturday and beat them in the replay at Palmerston. "Seriously though, to be fair to our supporters, they deserve the game at Cappielow. When the match was switched from Motherwell to Dumfries it meant a long 200 mile round trip for them while Gretna had the luxury of just a quick hop up the road. But we realised that it had to be! They also had their game postponed on Saturday while we were faced with two hard matches in three days. So, it speaks volumns for our lads that they performed so well, did us proud and, as a reward, they all have the day off today. "We had a 'let-off' when Deuchar hit the post but once we scored the confidence just grew and when Peter Weatherston grabbed two quick goals I knew we were through. We rested Peter on Saturday but he's not a player you can keep out for long. He's a natural finisher as all Queens' fans know, and he proved that once again last night. "At half time I told the lads that we had to stop their aerial bombardment and Stewart Greacen had a big hand in that. Keep the ball on the deck I stressed, and we can 'pick them off', and I'm pleased to say it worked. "Saturday is a massive day for both clubs with a place in the quarter-finals awaiting the winners. Queens always bring a big support to Cappielow and with the excitement building up I'm expecting between four and five thousand here. I know Queens would have preferred Gretna at Palmerston but with the shared gate I don't think they'll lose out too much. "If 'Chis' has that man Dobbie on the bench again I might just kidnap him and lock him in a cupboard until after the game. He came on as sub and destroyed us in the second half in our last meeting but I've got to admit that his 'hat-trick' was one of the best I've seen at Cappielow for many a long year. "But, apart from Stephen Dobbie, Queens have class and experience all over the park and are the form side in our league at present. Big Jim Thomson was a Colossus in defence, Stevie Tosh completely controlled the midfield and I'm a great admirer of Sean O'Connor. He's so strong and powerful and the lad doesn't get the credit he deserves". Bill Goldie |
| Travel Club News | 29th January 2008 |
There are only a few seats left on the third Doonhamers travel club to Morton this Saturday leaving old Tesco Lochfield Road at 10:30am picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat.Please phone the travel club hotline as soon as possible to book a seat on 07834687830.Buses are members only for this cup tie but you can join on the bus at adults £10 juniors £5 parent and child £12.Bus prices are adults £5 juniors £3.
The man of the match results on the two Doonhamers travel club buses at Dundee on Saturday was 1st S Oconnor 2nd P Burns 3rd R McCann. There was one winner in last weeks Doonhamers travel club fixed odss(£550)the winners was on Jim McCormicks sheet Aynslee from Greens bar.This weeks prize is £300. There are only a few tickets left for the Andy Aitken testimonial race night on Saturday 9th February in the Town House Hotel, Annan Road Dumfries.Tickets are £1 and will be on sale on the travel club buses on Saturday and in the Greenock Morton supporters bar from Ross Corbett. Ross Corbett |
| It's Morton in the Cup | 28th January 2008 |
In the Scottish Cup we're back up to Cappielow again to face Morton who beat Gretna 3-0 at Palmerston Park tonight. It's not ideal having to meet twice in a fortnight but after Saturday's result we'll be going there full of confidence. The tie will take place on Saturday, 2nd February.
Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 28th January 2008 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the win over Dundee on Saturday was Sean O'Connor, second was Paul Burns and third Neil Macfarlane.
All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting. |
| The form team | 28th January 2008 |
Manager, Gordon Chisholm, has taken more than his fair share of criticism since he first took over the reins last May, but he must now take credit where credit is due.
We are the form team in the First Division at present! We're in fourth spot in the table with 32 points from 23 league games and that's our highest points total at this particular time of the season since John Connolly's great run in 2003-04 when we had 35 points at this time. In mid-October that season we actually topped the table after beating ICT 3-2 at home. The crowd that day was 3547 and it was a match which will be remembered by all. Two years ago we had only 9 points from 23 games at this stage and our record since we were promoted to Division 1 reads: 2002-03, 26 pts; 2003-04, 35 pts; 2004-05, 29 pts; 2005-06, 9 pts; 2006-07, 20 pts; 2007-08, 32 pts. We've now lost only once in our last seven outings, scored 16 goals and conceded only 4, had 3 'clean-sheets' and put 15 points on the board in the league. Good going, and long may it last. Bill Goldie |
| The Scottish Cup | 28th January 2008 |
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| Tonight's Cup Tie | 28th January 2008 |
Admission prices for tonight's cup tie between Gretna and Morton at Palmerston will be: both Stands £15 (with £9 concessions) Terracing £13 (with £8 concessions). Any Queens' fans attending can go to any part of the ground but obviously season tickets are not valid. Kick-off is at 7.45 pm.
Bill Goldie |
| Match reaction | 26th January 2008 |
A chaotic spell midway through the second half saw Queens charge to a tremendous 3-2 victory over Dundee at a blustery Dens Park this afternoon.
Last week Stephen Dobbie was a hat trick hero netting three goals in eighteen minutes but today the team managed a treble in only five minutes. We were however a goal down in only nine minutes when Dumfries born Colin McMennamin, so often a 'thorn in our flesh' scored in his Tayside debut. A bizarre equaliser pulled us level in the 57th minute. Dundee keeper Craig Samson, (an ex-Queens man himself), blasted the ball out it hit Sean O'Connor and finished in the net. Three minutes later Sean scored a second and then man of the match Paul Burns netted a third a minute later to put us 3-1 ahead. However Dundee fought to the bitter end and McMennamin scored a second in injury time but it was too little too late and thankfully we held out. Dundee had lost only one league match at Dens Park all season which makes the result even more remarkable. That's 13 goals in our last four outings so all Queens fans will be smiling tonight. Most of us would have settled for a draw today so lets make the most of it as we're now ten points clear of Clyde who are in second bottom place. Gordon Chisholm couldn't hide his joy after the away victory and said, "Sure, we carried a bit of luck this afternoon but luck alone didn't win us this game. We were a goal down at half time but came out and put our shoulders to the wheel. I thought our attitude was first class! Our equaliser got us back into the game even though it was a bit bizarre. Big Sean was chasing a lost cause, the keeper kicked it against him and it finished in the net. That certainly gave us a massive lift. You take your luck when it's going but over the piece I felt we deserved those three points today. The first half was as poor as we'd played for a while. But in the second period we took the game by the 'scruff of the neck' and it paid off. We've now got a settled squad back together and we're blending well. At the present moment I'd pitch my lads against any side in the division." Official attendance - 3926 Travelling support - 188 Bill Goldie |
| New merchants now available | 26th January 2008 |
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| Birthday boys | 25th January 2008 |
Two ex-Queens legends celebrate their birthday this Sunday. Wee Tam Bryce will be 48 and George [Giro] Cloy 49. Both players are in management now - Tam at Kilbirnie Ladeside and Giro at Mid-Annandale.
BW |
| Important Notice | 25th January 2008 |
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| FOOTBALLERS LIVES | 25th January 2008 |
For our second article in the series we feature our longest serving player, Andy Aitken, who's made over 300 First Team appearances. Now in his second spell at Palmerston, January heralded the start of Andy's Testimonial Year--10 year's loyal service. Many exciting events have already been planned including Race Nights, Speaker's Dinners and Testimonial matches. And the theme of course is--'The Annan Lad'.
 Andy through the ages |
What's been your most exciting moment in your professional football career. And also the biggest match you've played in?
My First Team debut for Queen of the South. I was only 18 at the time and it was quite nerve wracking. For my biggest match I must name a couple--the two Challenge Cup finals at Fir Park and Broadwood. We lost one but won the other and they were both days I'll never forget. What's been your most embarrasing moment in football? Putting the gaffer up in the air with a rather harsh tackle at training one morning. I had just been dropped the week previous but I swear it wasn't intentional. Who do you rate the best player at Queen of the South at present? Stevie Tosh as he's totally controlling the midfield at present. 'Dobbs' won't be far behind for the goals he scores, and I was delighted to hear he'd signed an extension to his contract. If you could play for any club in the world who would it be? The same as 'Tosher' said last week--Barcelona! A superb club and the weather would be great out in Spain. What's your favourite film or video? The Untouchables starring Kevin Costner and Robert de Niro. Your favourite food and drink? Pasta, I love it. And I'd wash it down with a couple of pints of Stella. And the favourite item in your wardrobe? A CP company jacket. I got it as a gift for my 21st birthday and still wear it regularly every winter. If you had the chance to spend a week on your own, anywhere in the world, where would it be? New York, but I'd take my wife Kerry as well. If you had to choose a famous female celebrity to have dinner with, who would it be? Jessica Alba. Do you ever log-on to the official QOS Website and, if so, what do you think of it? On occasions. It's all right and gives a lot of information. I like to look back at some of the old stuff as it brings back some happy memories. Next Friday our featured player is Paul Burns. Bill Goldie |
| Queens to the rescue | 25th January 2008 |
Queeens came to the rescue yesterday when Gretna, Morton and the S.F.A. came calling with a major headache after the late postponement of the Gretna v Morton cup replay at Fir Park on Wednesday night. Queens agreed that it could be played at Palmerston on Monday night and should Gretna win through it's almost certain that the next round tie, which would then be between Gretna and Queens, would take place at Palmerston a week on Saturday since Motherwell would have a home tie of their own that afternoon.
Should Gretna win it would prove advantageous to Queens' fans who would then avoid a visit to Cappielow. So, for a change, they might just be opting for a Gretna victory come Monday night. What's happened with Motherwell and Gretna sharing Fir Park and Partick Thistle sharing Firhill with a local rugby club just highlights one of the 'downsides' of ground sharing in modern football when the weather turns bad. Bill Goldie |
| Team News | 24th January 2008 |
Gordon Chisholm is hoping he'll have the same squad as last week for the visit to Dundee on Saturday. Said the manager, "Our only doubt is John Stewart who hasn't trained so far this week, but I think he'll be OK".
Depite signing a pre-contract agreement with Dundee yesterday, Eric Paton will still be included in the squad. Bill Goldie |
| IMPORTANT SCOTTISH CUP NEWS | 24th January 2008 |
As a result of difficulties surrounding the playing of Greenock Morton v Gretna's 4th Round Tie, the Scottish Football Association has agreed that the Replay Tie postponed last night, can be played at Palmerston Park, home of Queen of the South FC on Monday 28th January, 2008 with a 7.45 pm kick-off.
In addition, and taking into account the serious backlog of fixtures currently being experienced by Motherwell FC due to recent tragic events along with poor weather and the ground sharing arrangement in place between Motherwell and Gretna, the Association has agreed that should Gretna go through to the next round, the tie against Queen of the South may take place at Palmerston Park on Saturday 2nd February, 2008. This decision is reached taking into account the extenuating circumstances involved and is made at the Association's sole discretion. Also, the Motherwell v Dundee 5th Round tie will take place at Fir Park, Motherwell on Saturday 2nd February. Colin Rutherford |
| Eric on the move | 23rd January 2008 |
Dundee have signed Eric Paton on a pre-contract deal for next season. The 29-year-old has been five and a half years at Palmerston, made 207 first team appearances and netted 10 goals for us. He will be joining the Dens Park side at the same time as his former team-mate Derek Lyle leaves Dundee for Hamilton.
Bill Goldie |
| Dundee next stop | 22nd January 2008 |
It will be a confident team bus that heads for Dundee on Saturday following our amazing second half rout of Morton at Cappielow. Recent results have seen us move up yet another place in the table and Queens' fans are now 'on a high' with anticipation.
However there's still a long way to go and the middle of the table is so tightly packed that, had we lost at Morton, we would have been third bottom instead of fourth top. That's five wins in our last six outings, so no one can complain at that. At the end of the game Chairman, Davie Rae, was seen celebrating with the Queens' fans and that appeared to go down well with all the supporters. On that visit to the 'City of Discovery' Gordon Chisholm said, "If we continue to play the way we have in the past month we fear no team, but we'll still treat them all with the respect they deserve. Dens Park is never an easy place to go and Dundee have lost only once there in the league this season. However, honours are even so far. "We lost 2-1 up there back in August but I felt we were worth a point as their goal came from a rather soft penalty. We beat them by the same score at home just a month ago and it was a good result even though they were down to ten men. So, there's all to play for! "We've scored seven goals and kept 'clean sheets' in our last two games. We've also picked up 12 points in out last five league matches into the bargain. So I want to keep that good run going. But, having said that, no manager is going to grumble with a point at Dundee. "If we do as well as we did in the second half against Morton I'll be happy. At the interval I told the lads that we could play a lot better, and how well they responded. In the second half we started to get a grip of the game and control it. 'Dobbs' was exceptional, but it's still a team game. "He did brilliant when he came on and I know what's he's capable of. He's the best finisher and top scorer in our league--that's why we signed him. We've given him an extension to his contract and he's scoring goals because he's happy and settled here. "But, as I've just stressed, football is a team game and it's all down to tactics and team effort. The lads at the back have also done exceptionally well recently and it's not only the starting eleven that deserve plaudits--it's the entire squad. "Stephen Dobbie's second half 'hat-trick' was sensational. It would be great if he could do that every week but we all know it's not going to happen. He came off the bench, displayed the right attitude and proved he was a true professional in every sense of the word". Bill Goldie |
| Annual General Meeting | 22nd January 2008 |
The A.G.M. of Queen of the South Football Club will be held in the Nith Hotel, Glencaple on Tuesday, 19th February. It will commence at 7.30 pm and all shareholders are welcome to attend.
Bill Goldie |
| From the Chairman | 21st January 2008 |
Let me start by putting the record straight! It's been rumoured that I'm retiring as Chairman at the end of the season, but that cannot be further from the truth. I've no intention of vacating the post at this moment in time!
It's also been said that we're planning to revert back to 'part-time' football at the end of this season. That too is not true! As I stated in the last home programme, 'Full-time training up in Glasgow and the professionism it has brought to the club is now reaping benefits'. And I firmly stand by that!. I've been in farming all my days and have been involved in countless transactions over the years. But getting Stephen Dobbie to sign that year's extension to his existing contract last week was one of the best bits of business ever. After that magnificent 'hat-trick' at Morton I'm sure a host of clubs would have been 'knocking on our door' for his signature by now. After the final whistle at Cappielow I went down trackside to celebrate with the Queens' fans and thank them for their tremendous support. I just felt a sudden urge to do so as that second-half 'hat-trick' by 'Dobbs' had us all buzzing. Our run of success since Christmas has been phenominal and long may it continue. Four wins in five league games has seen us move up into fourth spot and a 4-0 win over Linlithgow Rose in the Scottish Cup has taken us through to the last 16. We could never have visualised anything like that back in November. Suspensions in early season followed by an horrific spate of injuries saw us struggling to get a full squad at times. The manager was forced into playing players out of position and nothing was going right. However, I felt the turning point came when we came back from one down to beat Dundee at Palmerston, and it's been more-or-less onwards and upwards since then. We play Dundee again this Saturday but we'll be travelling up to Dens Park in a positive frame of mind. I still maintain Dundee will top the table and win promotion--and I've said that all along. David Rae Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 21st January 2008 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the win over Morton on Saturday was Stephen Dobbie, second was Neil Macfarlane and third Jim Thomson.
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 News | 21st January 2008 |
The man of the match results on the two Doonhamers travel club buses at Morton on Saturday was 1st S Dobbie 2nd N MacFarlane 3rd B Harris.
There were no winners in the Doonhamers travel club fixed odds last week this weeks prize is £550 anyone who would like to volunteer to become an agent please see Eck Patterson. There are still a few seats left on the second Doonhamers travel club bus to Dundee this Saturday to book a seat please phone Jim on 07834687830.The buses leave Old Tesco Lochfield Road at 9:30am picking up at The Lochar Inn and Moffat prices are members adults £5 juniors £3 and non members adults £14 juniors £8. Would all Doonhames travel club members please note the change of rule any members cancelling their seat after 7:00pm on the Wednesday prior to the away match or any member failing to cancel their seat will have to pay a £10 fine.Any non member breaching the rule will not be allowed to travel again. Ross Corbett |
| Match reaction | 19th January 2008 |
The shock news prior to kick off was our top marksman Stephen Dobbie relegated to the bench with new signing John Stewart taking his place upfront. The only other change from last week was Jamie McQuilken replacing Brian Gilmour but Dobbie again proved a super-sub coming on in the 64th minute and scoring three superb goals in the space of only 20 minutes to take us into 4th spot. This takes his tally to 14 for the season and how Gordon Chisholm must be 'rubbing his hands' at getting year on his contract.
This must rate as the Stephen Dobbie show and how the Queens fans loved it. In the first half there were few chances for either side at first Morton had the better of the opening exchanges but once Dobbs came on after the interval that all changed. With his first kick of the ball he cut in from the wing, beat two men and slotted the ball home. Eight minutes later he netted an even better goal with his other foot and completed a brilliant hat trick with a header 6 minutes from time. Gordon Chisholm was 'over the moon' to say the least and stressed, "It was a tremendous all round performance by the boys. Stephen Dobbie came off the bench and netted a brilliant hat-trick and that speaks volumes for the lads attitude and professionalism. I only started John Stewart up front this afternoon because I know the way Morton play and thought he would be more suited to their tactics. But I didn't mind one bit Dobbs having the 'last laugh', so to speak. I had always planned to bring him on for I know what he is capable of. But competition for places is never a bad thing! The application and attitude of our players this afternoon was first class. We suffered a few setbacks and bad results earlier in the season but are now settled. Morale and confidence is high and the dressing room is buzzing. The first thing the players ask for when they come off the park are the other results in the league and I feel we're looking upwards now. It's another clean sheet and I feel we can compete with any side in our league now." Added chairman Davie Rae, "It was a great bit of business getting Stephen Dobbie signed up for another year earlier in the week. For, after today, I'm sure a lot of other clubs would come knocking on our door. I spoke to Stephen after the final whistle and was winding him up, 'at the sitter he'd missed'. He just laughed and so did I. It was a tremendous performance and I'm proud of them all." This was the first hat-trick by a Queens player since Craig Feroz netted three in the CIS Cup at East Stirling on that tragic day of the Twin Towers disaster 11th September 2001. Bill Goldie |
| FOOTBALLERS LIVES | 18th January 2008 |
Today we begin a new lighthearted column, which will run every Friday, when we'll ask Queens' players the same ten questions. And to kick-off we have the talented, charismatic and controversial Stevie Tosh.
 Tosher makes Clyde pay the penalty |
What's been your most exciting moment in your professional football career. And also the biggest match you've played in?
The most exciting has to be the Scottish Cup Final with Gretna when we took Hearts to extra-time and a penalty shoot-out before losing. The biggest games I've played in were the clashes between Aberdeen and Rangers when I was at Pittodrie. They were always very intimidating. What's been your most embarrasing moment in football? Probably last week when I was mis-quoted in the Press regarding Junior sides competing in the Scottish Cup. It came out all wrong and wasn't at all what I meant. Who do you rate the best player at Queen of the South at present? I'd have to go for wee Bobby Harris who's playing really well at he moment. But 'Burnsey' would come a close second. If you could play for any club in the world who would it be? Barcelona! I'd love to be performing at the Nou Camp Stadium every second week. It would be a joy to behold. What's your favourite film or video? The Sopranos. I have it on a box set. Your favourite food and drink? I love Italian food--paticularly pasta. As for drink, it's got to be a few pints of lager on a Saturday night as most Queens' fans already know. And the favourite item in your wardrobe? An Armani suit which I keep for special occasions. It was very expensive and cost me a pretty penny but I feel really smart in it. If you had the chance to spend a week on your own, anywhere in the world, where would it be? Australia. However, I'd take my wife Stefanie with me and leave the kids at home with Gran and Grandad. If you had to choose a famous female celebrity to have dinner with, who would it be? Catherine Zeta Jones--a real cracker. Eat your heart out Michael Douglas! Do you ever log-on to the official QOS Website and, if so, what do you think of it? It's really good and any critisism is usually pretty fair. My wee boy likes to log-on for the pictures of the Queens' goals, especially when his daddy happens to score one. Next Friday our featured player is the 'Annan Lad' himself, Andy Aitken. Bill Goldie |
| Team News | 17th January 2008 |
Robert Campbell, who was 'cup-tied' last week, is added to the squad for the match against Morton on Saturday. Said Gordon Chisholm, "I don't want to tempt fate but apart from Jim Lauchlan and Neil Scally we have a fully fit pool of players for a change. However, we still don't have a big squad and we hope to add to it before the January Window closes. 'Lauchie' went through an operation on Tuesday for his groin injury so we'll just have to wait and see what happens".
Bill Goldie |
| Latest Queens fans | 17th January 2008 |
Queens fan Graeme Clive has sent in this photograph of the recent additions to his family of Queens fans. The pictures were taken before the recent Linlithgow Rose match in the Scottish Cup. The twins were born on 23rd November 2007 and will be attending matches in the warmer weather. Their names are Lewis George Clive and Gregor Douglas Clive. They are pictured here with their dad (front end of the panto coo at Brechin) and older brother Drew (who has never seen Queens lose).
Congratulations Graeme, start them young!  Graeme, Drew, Lewis and Gregor |
| 'Dobbs' is a happy man | 16th January 2008 |
Speaking to the 'Website' shortly after signing the new extension to his contract Stephen Dobbie stressed, "I was aware other clubs were interested but I wanted to stay with Queens! They're a good club and look after their players well so I was happy to sign the extension.
"The First Division is such a tight league where anyone can beat anyone. Just look at a week past on Saturday when bottom of the table Stirling Albion drew with league leaders Hamilton. It's so competitive but keeps us all 'on our toes'. We're doing well at the moment but we must keep that momentum going. We're sitting mid-way in the table now and we don't want to slip any lower than that if we can help it. We want to make Palmerston a fortress again. "When I first came here last January Queens were bottom of the league and struggling, but the gaffer brought in some decent players and we went on a good unbeaten run and managed to stay up. But I don't fancy going through all that again! "I've felt sharp in the last two games! I came off the bench to score against Clyde and grabbed the opener against Linlithgow in the cup-tie at the weekend. I'm a striker and scoring goals is my job. That's seven goals Queens have scored in two matches and the only one conceded was from the penalty spot. That's the type of form our fans want to see". You're on 11 goals so far, so have you set yourself a target for the season we asked 'Dobbs'. "15 would be acceptable but 20 would be even better" was the reply. On the cup draw he added, "I don't really care who we get--Morton or Gretna--but I know for a fact most of the lads want Gretna". Gordon Chisholm was pleased that the deal's all 'done and dusted' and remarked, "I'm delighted that 'Dobbs' had committed his future to Queen of the South as other clubs were waiting on the wings to snap him up. He's a born striker and has scored 22 goals since he joined us a year ago, and that's not counting the six he got against Ayr United in the Annan Tournament. That's the kind of strike rate I'm looking for!" The manager has also agreed a similar deal with Neil Scally and revealed, "Just before he was injured Neil and I 'shook hands' on an extension to his existing contract and I'm hoping to finalise it soon. 'Scal' is as 'hard as nails' and 'made from girders', so I'm confident he'll make a full recovery and be back at his brilliant best for next season". Bill Goldie |
| Star striker signs again | 16th January 2008 |
Stephen Dobbie, our star striker, signs an one year extension to his existing contract this morning which will tie him to Queens through to the summer of 2009. 26-year-old 'Dobbs' joined us last January and netted 11 goals last season and the 11 he's scored this season now takes his tally to 22. Several other clubs had been interested in him so both manager, Gordon Chisholm and chairman, David Rae were delighted to get him to commit his future to Queen of the South.
 Stephen Dobbie signs on the dotted line this morning |
Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 15th January 2008 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the win over Linlithgow Rose in the Scottish Cup on Saturday was Stephen Dobbie, second was Steve Tosh and third Jim Thomson.
All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting. |
| To Cappielow with confidence | 15th January 2008 |
Queens head for Cappielow on Saturday in a confident frame of mind and they've every reason to be positive. They beat Morton up there on their last visit and have now tightened up at the back having conceded only two goals in open play in their past five outings. On top of that the Greenock men haven't the best of defensive records on their home ground, winning only twice in their last ten league matches.
However, Gordon Chisholm warns, "Although we're playing well at the moment, Cappielow is never an easy place to go. We did win there in early season but it took a great goal from big Sean to clinch all three points. They did beat us 3-1 at Palmerston but it was a dubious penalty award that changed the course of that game. "It will be yet another hard battle at Greenock but, as we all know, there's few easy games in this league. We're only two points in front of Morton and, should they beat us, we'd drop back into the bottom half of the table again. Nevertheless, it's a game we're capable of winning! We've enjoyed some really good results over those last few weeks which has taken us into the top five, and we've also earned a place in the last 16 of the Scottish Cup into the bargain. "We're playing with a much more positive attitude now and have stopped leaking silly goals at the back. But we must maintain this train of thought, stay focussed and concentrate for the full 90 minutes. At the end of the day it's all down to ourselves. "With new faces coming in players are having to fight harder to retain their place in the team, and you can't beat healthy competition to keep them on their toes. We had Ryan McCann on from the start on Saturday, John Stewart was on as sub but we couldn't field Robert Campbell as he was 'cup-tied' having been on the bench for Dumbarton in an earlier round. "I appreciated the home support of over 2000 for the Linlithgow cup-tie and it created a tremendous atmosphere. But our visitors deserve praise as well! They had close on 1000 down and both their fans and players alike deserve a lot of praise for making the occasion a memorable one. "As yet, we don't know who we will meet in the next round. It could be Morton or it might be a 'local derby' against Gretna which, would of course, be held at Motherwell. We don't fear either of them but I would have been happier had the tie been at Palmerston". Bill Goldie |
| Sean's 100 | 15th January 2008 |
Before Saturday's cup-tie against Linlithgow Rose, Queens' striker Sean O'Connor was presented with a trophy to mark his 100th first team start. Sean made it day to remember by scoring the third counter in Queens' 4-0 victory and it was his 40th goal for the club as well. Queen of the South director Keith Houliston handed over the memento and it was most appropriate since the Houliston family have been associated with the 'Doonhamers' for over 60 years.
 Sean receives his trophy from Keith Houliston |
Keith's father Billy Houliston, a local lad himself, was a legend in his own right for both club and country. He signed for Queens in October,1945, and netted 74 goals in 155 appearances and went on to become both a director and chairman of the club he loved. At international level Billy was capped nine times for his country and had the distinction of never having finished on a losing Scotland side. He scored twice in his first full internation in 1948 to help beat Northern Ireland 3-2 at Hampden and the following year was in the side that recorded a great 3-1 win over England at Wembley. His 'caps' still hang in the Palmerston Boardroom to this day.
Keith himself was also a good player. He turned out for Queens as an amateur in the early 1970's and was capped for his country at that level against both Ireland and Wales. He joined the Board in 1994 and his youngest daughter, Jennifer, just happens to be engaged to Sean O'Connor. Bill Goldie |
| Man of the match | 14th January 2008 |
We're having a few technical problems tonight which means that the man of the match voting will not be able to be counted until tomorrow evening.
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| Pre-contractual signing | 14th January 2008 |
Queens have signed Gerry McLauchlan on a pre-contractual deal and he'll be joining the club in June. The 18-year-old was at Hamilton Accies as a youth but is currently playing with Stranraer. A central defender, Gerry is 6 feet 2 ins. and scores his fair quota of goals. Queens' fans will remember him as the 'skinhead' who was one of the Stair Parker's best players when we met them in the Brewer's Cup final at Annan in pre-season.
Bill Goldie |
| JT breaks his 'duck' at Palmy | 14th January 2008 |
Believe it or not, but I've just been informed by a QOS 'anorak' that big Jim Thomson's header on Saturday was the first goal he's scored for Queens at Palmerston. In total Jim's netted nine for us, but the prevous eight were all away from home. Three of those were against one of his former clubs, Clyde--the others coming against Partick Thistle, Stranraer, Livingston, Brechin City and Ayr United.
Bill Goldie |
| Match reaction | 12th January 2008 |
Before the game Rose manager Jim Sinnett stated he hoped they 'wouldn't disgrace themselves' - and despite the 4-0 defeat they certainly didn't. They can go back up the road to West Lothian with their heads held high and their fans who numbered close on 1000 should be proud of their team for such a gritty performance. The vociferous following were behind their team for the entire ninety minutes and never faltered in their support. Even the Queens following wouldn't have grudged them a consolation goal late in the game.
Although three nil down at half time the visitors best spell came just after the interval when they came close twice and on one occasion it was only the cross bar that saved Queens. It was also a memorable occasion for Sean O'Connor who was presented with a trophy by Queens director Keith Houliston to mark his 100th first team start, his goal was his 40th so well done big man. Gordon Chisholm admitted he was glad to get the game over and out of the way as it was another potential 'banana skin'. Said the manager, "They were an unknown quantity and we weren't quite sure what to expect. But we prepared for the match in a professional manner and showed Linlithgow the utmost respect. There wasn't much in it in the first ten minutes but after we scored we got on top and knocked the ball about well. We scored some really good goals out there this afternoon but all credit to Rose, they gave a most professional performance. There was a good crowd of over 3000 and I'd like to thank all the Queens fans for turning out on such a dreich day." On the cup draw Chis added, "Naturally I'd have preferred it to be at home but we'll give it our best shot whether it's Morton or Gretna." And his words were echoed by both the Chairman and skipper Jim Thomson. Rose boss Jim Sinnet was disappointed at the final score line and insisted, "We certainly didn't deserve to lose by four goals. Their first one looked like a hand ball to me but any neutral there today would have to agree that we deserved at least one goal. I was proud of my team but we'll put it behind us as we have an important match next week against Cumnock in the Scottish Junior Cup. "We all enjoyed the experience today and our supporters were really great. I wish Queen of the South all the best in the next round." Added skipper Jim Thomson, "I thought it was a good professional performance all round after we got the first goal we settled down and although they had one or two good chances in the second half it turned out a comfortable victory." Ryan McCann made his debut this afternoon and couldn't have wished for a bigger stage - The Scottish Cup. Said our new signing, "I'm still not fully fit and felt it out there today. I wasn't in my favourite position but I thoroughly enjoyed the occasion and the big crowd. I thought we took all of our goals well. Sponsors man of the match - Stephen Dobbie. Official attendance - 3064. Travelling support - 924 There were five BBC cameras at the match today and extended highlights will be shown on TV tonight. It will be the second top game after Hearts versus Motherwell and should be well worth watching. Bill Goldie |
| Cup draw | 12th January 2008 |
Ties to be played on weekend of February 2nd and 3rd.
Morton/Gretna v Queens Falkirk/Aberdeen v Hamilton/Brechin Airdrie Utd/Kilmarnock v Celtic Hearts/Motherwell v Huntly/Dundee Livingston/Cowdenbeath v Partick/Dunfermline Hibernian v Rangers/East Stirling Cove Rangers/Ross County v St Johnstone/Raith St Mirren v Clyde/Dundee United |
| Make money for Queens | 11th January 2008 |
James Rutherford |
| Andy's Race Night tickets | 11th January 2008 |
Tickets for Andy Aitken's Testimonial Racenight are now available. The event will be held in the Townhouse Hotel, Annan Road, Dumfries on Saturday, 9th February. It starts at 7.30 pm with the first race at 8.00 pm. Tickets are priced at £1 and are available from the Palmerston Lounge Bar, Ross Corbett of the Travel Club, Gary Taylor of the Sanquhar Supporters Club and Brian Murphy of the QOS Fan Club. To purchase horses for the various races and for any further details contact Ross Corbett (Tel. 07809 490650).
Bill Goldie |
| Precautionary measure | 11th January 2008 |
With frost forecast again tonight, the covers were being laid at Palmerston this afternoon as a purely precautionary measure, although there is no real doubt of the cup-tie not going ahead. Thanks are due once more to all our voluntary helpers.
Bill Goldie |
| Half time reward | 10th January 2008 |
Heston Rovers have recently received their SFA Standard Quality Mark Accreditation and are being rewarded with a special training session with SFA Coaches on the pitch at Half Time on Saturday. Well Done to Heston Rovers and let's give the children a big cheer.
Margaret Heuchan |
| Countdown to the Cup (4) | 10th January 2008 |
With less than two days till the big cup-tie, excitement is mounting in the Linlithgow dressing-room and today two or their top players, Robbie Feeney and Ian Gallacher air their views. Last Saturday Feeney was their two-goal hero in the team's convincing 4-0 victory over Oakley and the striker says he'd like nothing better to net another couple at Palmerston on Saturday to sicken one of his best mates--Queens' keeper, Jamie MacDonald.
"Jamie and I go back a long way" explained Robbie. "We grew up together as wee laddies in Bathgate and stayed right across the road from each other. We've always been pals but friendly rivals as well, so we're both really looking forward to facing each other in the Scottish Cup. We've a wee wager on--but I'm not saying what it is! "We've only come up against each other once before in our professional careers. I was playing for Dundee United reserves and Jamie was with Hearts and I'm sure we won. "We're all geared up and getting excited with the match getting closer. It's a massive game for us and certainly the biggest I've ever played in. Queens are odds-on favourites to win, but it's a cup-tie and anything can happen! We've a lot of experienced pros in our ranks who've played at a higher level and seen it all before, so Queens can't afford to underestimate us". Team-mate, Ian Gallacher, is another Rose player looking forward to the big occasion for a different reason. Ian spent most of his young years in Sanquhar, moving there as a six-year-old and residing in the Nithsdale township for 11 years. During his career he's also had two trials for Queens. Added the former Linlithgow captain who's been there for over six years, "The Gallacher clan from Sanquhar will be out in force at Palmerston on Saturday. My mum and dad who farm at Knockenhair will be down and so too will my three brothers. Other family friends and relatives will also be there, so I won't be short of support. "With so many games over the Christmas period we've not been able to think too much about the cup-tie, but now it's 'kicking in' and excitement is mounting in the dressing-room and also in the town of Linlithgow itself. "We've been following Queens' results with interest and they're doing really well at the moment. But we're looking forward to 'pitting our wits' against a First Division side and we're quietly confident we might just surprise them. "The manager's got a settled side at present and I'm pleased to say I'm getting a regular game. But we all know we'll have to hit top form to beat Queens as they have a lot of good experienced players themselves. "Ex- Aberdeen man, Stevie Tosh, controls the mid-field so we must stop him getting the ball and dictating play. Up front, Stephen Dobbie is their top scorer with ten goals this season. The papers say he scored a tremendous goal against Clyde on Saturday, so we'll have to keep him well shackled as well. "We're enjoying all the media attention that goes with the Scottish Cup and know it will esculate as the big day gets even closer. I hear the TV cameras will be there and all the national press as well. A big crowd's expected and we'll have a good following of our own. If we could pull off a shock result it would be brilliant, but if not we'll still enjoy getting to the fourth round of the Scottish Cup and cherish the memory". Bill Goldie |
| Team news | 10th January 2008 |
New signings Ryan McCann and John Stewart are included in the squad for Saturday's cup-tie. However, young striker Robert Campbell is 'cup-tied' and unable to play. Keeper, Stephen Grindlay, has recovered from flu but has now picked up a knock in training. So we could be without a substitute goalie again. Long term absentees, Jim Lauchlan and Neil Scally are still missing.
Admission: Adults £12.00. Senior Citizens and Juveniles £5.00. Season tickets are not valid for this match. Bill Goldie |
| West Lothian Question | 10th January 2008 |
Linlithgow's visit on Saturday is not the first time we have met opposition from the West Lothian district for Queens first ever tie in the Scottish Cup was a narrow away defeat to the Rose's near neighbours Broxburn in 1920 while only eight years ago Livingston inflicted upon us our record home cup defeat - a 7-0 thrashing so hopefully it is third time lucky.
BLW |
| Club shop stocked | 9th January 2008 |
Back in stock at the Club shop, and also available at the usual outlets, is the very popular Queen of the South tartan scarf priced at £14.
Also new in for this week is the air blaster horn priced at only £2. Over 50 other items available at the shop situated at the rear of the main stand. Graham Crofts |
| Countdown to the Cup (3) | 9th January 2008 |
Linlithgow Rose manager, Jim Sinnet, reckons his side haven't much of a chance of pulling off a cup upset at Palmerston on Saturday but insists, "It's still a big occasion for us all and, whatever the score, we're going to enjoy ourselves.
"When I'm out and about all the locals want to stop and talk about the game and I'm happy at that, but I've got to be realistic. On paper, we shouldn't stand a chance! We're a Junior side while Queen of the South play in the First Division. We'd need to be at our very best and catch Queens on a 'bad day' to have an earthy. They're full-time now and have class all over the park including several well known former Premier League men. "There's not too much of a gap between ourselves and the Third Division, but Division One opposition is a different story. Nevertheless we'll be going down to Dumfries for a good day out and we'll give it our best shot and try not to disgrace ourselves. "We'll have about 1000 supporters cheering us on and if we could grab a goal 'early doors' it just might frustrate Queens enough to give us a chance. Especially if the home fans turn against them and put the players under added pressure. That's what we're looking for! "Reaching the last 32 of the Scottish Cup in the first season that Junior sides have been included is an achievement in itself. But I'm not kidding myself! So far we've only faced teams from lower leagues and not come up against Scottish League opposition yet. So Saturday will be a big test. In recent weeks Queens have beaten Dundee, Livingston and Clyde at Palmerston and in the previous round of the cup knocked five in against Peterhead without reply. So we have a major task in front of us". Added Rose assistant manager, Gordon Rae who, at 21 actually played for Hibs in a Scottish Cup Final. "Just watching our boys line up against an established First Division outfit like Queen of the South will fill me with pride. We're not expecting too much, so we'll go down to Dumfries and do our best". The final that Gordon featured in was Hibs v Rangers and it took three matches to decide the winner--no penalty 'shoot-outs' in those days! After two goal-less draws Rangers eventually won 3-2. Bill Goldie |
| Stevie makes his point | 9th January 2008 |
Stevie Tosh insisted today that certain remarks he'd made on local radio had been mis-interpreted by fans who had not appreciated fully what he was actually trying to say. Said Stevie, "The question I was asking was: 'If the Scottish Cup had to be extended why weren't affiliated clubs from the Highland League, South League and East League given preference'. Let's face it--they wouldn't be allowed to play in the Junior Cup, would they. Everyone's entitled to an opinion and that was just my own personal opinion! I feel the four Junior sides have their own Scottish Junior Cup to compete in.
"Why sort something that's not broken? The Scottish Cup has been going strong now for over 100 years, so why alter it! That's the point I was trying to make! "I was not meaning to be disrespectful when I said that Linlithgow Rose had no chance of winning the Scottish Cup. Queen of the South have little chance themselves and we are in the First Division. We ran Hibs close last season and every club hopes for a little bit of cup glory. I enjoyed it myself when I was at Gretna and we took Hearts to extra-time in the cup-final, and that was a day I'll never forget. "I have nothing at all against Junior football I played Junior myself, and enjoyed it, before joining the senior ranks. So in no way would I try and belittle it". Bill Goldie |
| Robert signs | 8th January 2008 |
Robert Campbell, who played for Queens as a 'trialist' in our last two games, has now been signed until the end of the season. The 21-year-old striker is 6 feet 2 ins.and has been with Kilmarnock for the past five years.
Bill Goldie |
| Countdown to the Cup (2) | 8th January 2008 |
Up to last weekend Gordon Chisholm chose not to talk about Saturday's Scottish Cup tie as he always preferred to take 'one game at a time'. However, we're now only four days away from the big day and excitment is building in both camps and the manager is fully aware how important it is to progress. Said Gordon, "Although the league is important the Scottish Cup is the 'icing on the cake' and offers some great financial rewards.
"We've already overcome one potential 'banana skin' by beating Peterhead in the last round but another one is waiting for us in the shape of Linlithgow Rose. I've had them watched twice and Dalbeattie Star, who met them in an earlier round, have sent us a useful dossier on them which proved most helpful.They have some decent players with the likes of Carrigan, Herd, Wilson and Denholm, and we've already identified their danger men. "I've played in enough cup-ties on both sides of the border to know that's there's always a shock or two in the cup and I don't want Queens to be on the receiving end of anything like that. We'll prepare in the same way we would if we were playing Dundee, Hamilton or St Johnstone and give Linlithgow the respect they deserve for getting through to this stage of the competition. They've won three ties already to reach this far and on Saturday they won 4-0--so they'll be coming down here on a high and it's surprising what can happen when an adrenaline surge kicks in. "Everyone in Scotland, except our own fans of course, will be rooting for a win for Linlithgow! It's the Scottish Cup of course, and they'll be hoping the 'minnows' win through. So it's down to us to prepare properly and professionally and ensure there's no slip-ups. Our own home form has been good in recent weeks and if we perform to our true potential then I'm confident we'll win. But I'm taking nothing for granted as there's so much at stake! It's down to us and we must be up for the task ahead come Saturday". Bill Goldie |
| 300 not out | 7th January 2008 |
 Before the recent game against Livingston our skipper, Jim Thomson, was presented with a memento by Chairman, David Rae to mark his 300th First Team start. Jim was also named 'Man of the Match' by the sponsors and to make it a really memorable afternoon Queens won 1-0. He first signed on New Year's Day, 1997, left for a couple of years to play for Arbroath, but was to return to the town and the club he loved most. Jim has always been a big favourite with the Queens' fans and three times was voted 'Player of the Year' by the supporters, so it was fitting that this most recent presentation comes almost eleven years to the day he first joined. Photograph from Angus McDougal. Bill Goldie |
| Countdown to the Cup (1) | 7th January 2008 |
We kick-off out Countdown to the Cup with Linlithgow Rose's long-serving secretary, David Roy, revealing his thoughts on Saturday's historic meeting. says Davie, "All our fans are really looking forward to the visit to Dumfries and I reckon close on 1000 will make the trip to Palmerston.
"We've already had a representative down at Dumfries checking out the local pubs and hotels and, from what I hear, all the establishments in the town have been most welcoming towards us. "The whole of Linlithgow is now buzzing with anticipation, and I have no doubt it will reach fever pitch as the weekend approaches. I know the TV cameras will be there and that will add a bit more excitement for our players and fans alike. "We hope to come down and make a game of it! We realise Queen of the South will start favourites but there's always a shock or two in the cup. We'd be happy with a draw but being club secretary I wouldn't look forward to all the preparation and problems a mid-week replay would bring. "We've had a lot of injuries over the past two months and a lot of cup-ties as well. We've played three games in the Scottish Cup to get where we are, three in the Scottish Junior Cup plus several others in local cup competitions. So we've cetainly been kept going! "I've been to Palmerston before but it was an awful long time ago. I served on the same S.F.A. committee as the late Willie Harkness who was actually S.F.A. President at the time. He invited Linlithgow Rose down to Palmerston for a Sunday friendly match and we actually won 2-0 that afternoon--so a repeat of that result would do me fine come Saturday. "But we all know it won't be easy! Queens have won their last three home games and sit in fifth spot in the table so we'll have to be at our best. However, we have been given the opportunity to make our own wee bit of history in Scottish football and we'll give it our best shot". Bill Goldie |
| Ton up for Sean | 7th January 2008 |
All being well Sean O'Connor will make his 100th First Team start in Saturday's Scottish Cup-tie. Now in his second spell at Palmerston, big Sean has netted 39 goals to date and we'll all be hoping he hits the 40 mark against Linlithgow. He'll be receiving a trophy to mark the occasion prior to kick-off.
Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 7th January 2008 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the win over Clyde on Saturday was Steve Tosh, second was Paul Burns and third Stephen Dobbie.
All of the scores have been added to the Latest Report page and to the IFC Player of the Season table. Thanks for voting. |
| Lochar Thistle presented with Lisbon Lions Jersey | 6th January 2008 |
One of the prizes on offer at the recent 'Blue Christmas' fund raising event was a framed Celtic top, signed by the remaining Lisbon Lions squad who secured a historic European Cup victory over Inter Milan in 1967.
Queens are indebted to Celtic legends Billy McNeil and Mike Jackson for donating the prize and equally grateful to Lochar Thistle for their generous bid on the night, which secured the item for display in their new facilities. Queens Chairman Davie Rae and Director Colin Rutherford were delighted to present the jersey to Darren Martin and Mark Neil - two former Lochar Youth players - at the recent game against Dundee. James Rutherford  Photo - Angus McDougal |
| Match reaction | 5th January 2008 |
Queens made it three home wins in a row with a great 3-1 win over Clyde this afternoon. However it took a tremendous 2nd half fightback to clinch all three points. We had the bulk of the pressure early on but a rash challenge by Jim Thomson gave away an unnecessary penalty which saw the visitors take the lead. A change of tactics after the interval worked wonders and in the end we were comfortable and deserved winners.
Gordon Chisholm allowed himself a big smile when he strolled up the tunnel towards the interview and insisted, "Had someone offered me nine points from the four festive season matches I would have grabbed it. That's three home wins in a row now and in two of them we came back from a goal down. We're up into the top half of the table now and we hope to stay there. Our aim has always been to make Palmerston a place where other teams fear to come and that's beginning to happen now. We played some good football in the first half but lacked that bit of penetration. And, as so often happens they break away, win a penalty and score. But all credit to the lads in the second half, we changed it about a bit and that first goal was just what we needed. To score three after the interval was heartening and their keeper had to make three or four really good saves in the game or it would have been more." Asked about the Stephen Dobbie substitution the manager admitted, "I had three players for two positions and had to make a difficult choice. I know Dobb's can score goals and I rate him highly. Infact before todays game I was talking to him about a new contract for next season." Were you worried when Jamie MacDonald required treatment and you had no real cover? Giving a rye smile Chis replied, "Sure I was worried but not half as much as Stevie Morrison - his face turned white." Stephen Dobbie was upbeat at notching the opening goal which takes his season's tally to double figures but was quick to add, "I wouldn't want to be a 'super-sub' every week. It's the manager that picks the team and it doesn't matter who scores the goals, whether it's Sean or me, as long as they keep going in. Football's a squad game and we must all appreciate that." On that opening goal Dobbs explained, "Stevie Tosh played it in, I got a good first touch and it was a good finish." Steve Tosh himself said, "Now I'm playing in my favourite position in the middle of the park and it gives me 'licence to perform'. When I was wide left I did my best - I'd play anywhere for the club if asked." Clyde manager Colin Hendry admitted that he was forced to play men out of position as he had difficulty getting a squad of fifteen players. But he confessed, "In Stephen Dobbie Queens have the best finisher in our division, Sean O'Connor always causes problems in defence with his strength so we were up against it. We had a slow start and allowed Queens too much space but the penalty did come at a good time. In the second half they came back at us but we switched off as set pieces and had only ourselves to blame." Sponsors man of the match - Paul Burns Official attendance - 1513 Visiting support - 217 Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 31st December 2007 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the game on Wednesday against Hamilton was Jim Thomson, Steve Tosh was second with Andy Aitken 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. |
| Ooops! | 4th January 2008 |
Sorry about the error in John Stewart's age in yesterday's article, our new player is actually 22 and not 26 as stated..
Bill Goldie 
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| Globe Inn Donations | 3rd January 2008 |
This sum is the proceeds of the Globe Inn Doonhamer's festive sales of merchandise and the emptying of members piggy banks - grateful thanks BLW |
| Another 'must win' game on Saturday | 3rd January 2008 |
With two away games coming up at Morton and Dundee after our cup-tie with Linlithgow Rose the Clyde match on Saturday must rate as yet another 'must win' encounter. As every week goes by the middle of the league appears to be getting tighter and tighter! Stirling Albion are gradually getting alienated at the bottom with Hamilton, Dundee and St Johnstone fighting it out at the top, but the rest of us are bunched in mid-table sweating it out.
It's just over a month since we last met Clyde. That was up at Broadwood and although the match ended goal-less the majority of Queens' fans reckoned we could have well scored four that day. They were never more than a goal in it in our five meetings last year, both sides winning one apiece and three finishing in draws, so the form books points to another tight one at the weekend. Gordon Chisholm was very disappointed to lose at Hamilton on Wednesday but insisted his players gave their all and no way could be faulted for lack of effort against the league leaders. Added the manager, "I felt we merited a share of the points for there's very few teams leave New Douglas Park with all three points". On the Clyde game Gordon insists, "They're very tight defensively and difficult to break down. We've drawn with then twice in the league already this season, but we should have beaten them up there as we missed lots of scoring chances. Having defeated both Dundee and Livingston at Palmerston recently we want to get back to our winning ways and it's important we keep teams like Clyde below us in the table. "We'll probably have the same squad out as we had at Hamilton but I'm still trying to freshen things up a bit. I've been talking to quite a few players since the 'Window' opened and we managed to get John Stewart signed up at mid-day on January 2nd to allow him to play at Hamilton. We've not made any decision yet on Robert Campbell who turned out as a trialist on Wednesday". Bill Goldie |
| Latest signing | 3rd January 2008 |
John Stewart was signed on a six month loan deal from Falkirk on Wednesday. Formally at Aberdeen, the 26-year-old is a striker who Queens showed interest in last season.
Bill Goldie
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| Match reaction | 2nd January 2008 |
Queens fought bravely at New Douglas Park this afternoon but a goal 20 minutes from time from 'wonder kid' James McArthur gave Hamilton a 1-0 victory to extend their lead at the top of the table and with Morton winning at Stirling we drop to 7th place but with a home game against Clyde in 3 days time we have a chance to redeem ourselves.
Queens fans made up almost a quarter of the crowd and will be disappointed that we didn't come back down the road with at least a share of the spoils. A very blustery wind made it difficult for both sides and chances were few and far between in the opening stages. In the dying minutes Bob Harris missed a guilt-edged chance to equalise and only minutes later home keeper Cerny pulled off a fine save to ensure a home victory. We had three new faces in the squad today, John Stewart on a 6 month loan from Falkirk, Robert Campbell from Kilmarnock and keeper Darren Martin standing in for Stephen Grindlay. Afterwards Gordon Chisholm admitted, "They're top of the table and I think we matched them in every aspect of the game. In the second half in particular we had chances but the more the game went on I thought it was going to end up 0-0. Most of the excitement came in the later stages. The goal was an error from our keeper Jamie MacDonald. It was a blustery wind but Jamie will know he could have done better." Official Attendance 2298. Travelling Support 518. Bill Goldie |
| Just what the doctor ordered | 31st December 2007 |
A few unused tickets from the Queens v Manchester United charity match (in aid of the Lockerbie Disaster Fund) played at Palmerston in March 1989 were unearthed by a supporter a few weeks ago. To put them to good use a novel idea was put forward by our former club doctor, Archie Downie. Archie knows Sir Alex Ferguson well from his years as official doctor for the Scotland international side and remembers him well as a young player on a World Tour. "We played in six different countries which included Tel Aviv, the Far East and Canada" he recalled. "Alex was our top scorer on that tour and we've kept in touch ever since". It was Archie who suggested he send the tickets off to the Manchester United manager to be autographed and a couple of weeks later they came back, all signed, and accompanied by a nice letter from Sir Alex himself. Archie now plans to have the actual letter framed and donate it to the club for a future fund raising event. As for the tickets--they will be auctioned off in pairs as well.
Bill Goldie |
| Happy Old Year | 31st December 2007 |
Queens' fans couldn't have wished for a better conclusion to the old year with two home wins in a row--nerve wracking as it was! That's nine points in our last four outings and takes us up to sixth spot in the table with 23 points.
However, we face our hardest task of all come Wednesday with a visit to league leaders, Hamilton. Accies are pratically 'unbeatable' on the astro-turf at New Douglas Park, having lost only once in the league up there in the past one and a half years. But, looking on the bright side, it's worked out 'honours even' between the two clubs over those last 18 months. All four games ended in draws last season and, although we lost by the only goal of the game up there in early season, we did beat them 2-1 at home two months ago. However, if we were all totally honest, the vast majority of Queens' fans would 'take a draw and run'. Said Gordon Chisholm this afternoon, "We all know the enormity of what we have in front of us but we are showing a lot more consistency now and that's what I've been wanting for weeks. We're also winning games which could well have been draws and that's made a big difference to our points tally. "We've already proved we can hold our own with the Accies but, having beaten them at Palmerston recently, Billy Reid will be desperate for revenge.They operate a system which has proved very successful and that's why they're top of the table. I notice they've just signed David Graham from Gretna--I player I much admire--so that will strengthen their squad even more. "This league is now tighter than ever but I still think we could finish in the top half. Every game's a new challenge and balanced on a knife edge, but our aim is to keep the good run going and build on our recent success". Team News: New signing, Ryan McCann, goes straight into the squad for the Hamilton match and the manager is hoping to bring in another two new faces as soon as possible. Stephen Grindlay has still not fully recovered from flu but it's expected he'll be OK for the bench. Added Gordon, "It's no big secret that big Sean hates the astro-turf at Hamilton. However, if we're really struggling, I'll speak to him on the day of the match, but it will be a last-minute decision whether he plays or not. "Our squad been down to the minimum those last two games, so I think it's an exceptional achievement to have picked up six points. It was heavy going in both matches and some of the lads looked jaded. There were a lot of tired legs on Saturday night but our back four held firm, even with Neil Scally missing. For a 36-year-old I thought Jim Thomson was outstanding and Andy Aitken has come back into the team and also done well. "I'd like to end by thanking all our fans for their support throughout the past year and I'm hoping it continues in 2008. A Guid New Year to you all". Bill Goldie |
| Man of the Match | 31st December 2007 |
Winner of the internet fan club man of the match award from the game on Saturday against Livingston was Jim Thomson, Paul Burns was second with Steven Tosh 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 | 29th December 2007 |
Two stalwarts with almost 15 seasons loyal service between them were the heroes of the hour at Palmerston this afternoon. Captain courageous big Jim Thomson was making his 300th first team start for the club and was like a lion in the heart of the defence. He was voted man of the match and deservedly so! John O'Neill crashed home the all important penalty winner in the 83rd minute after coming on as a substitute and this won us the game and saw us move up into sixth place in the table. It was our first back to back win in the league at home this season and that really pleased Gordon Chisholm.
The first half was a rather drab affair with neither keeper having a decent shot to save but the match bust into action after the interval. The introduction of John O'Neill and Jamie McQuilken enlivened the homesters but Livingston gave as good as they got. O'Neill grazed the upright with a header and shortly after that Paul Burns, who had another splendid performance, also hit the crossbar. The only goal of the game came when Steve Tosh was brought down in the box and O'Neill duly obliged from the spot. Gordon Chisholm heaped praise on his troops and enthused, "I was very proud of my lads! We were up against a good side and the three points now takes us above them in the table. The longer the game went I felt the only way either side would score would be from a free-kick or the penalty spot. And that's exactly what happened. "In the second half some legs were beginning to show signs of tiredness and I sent on two subs who both played a big part in our victory. We kept a clean-sheet and I was delighted at that as well. "I thought Jim Thomson was fantastic and led by example. It was a great performance by the big man in his 300th game. We only just managed to scrape a team together and Eric Paton had to come out of his 'sick bed' to play--but he too was tremendous. With subsitute keeper Stephen Grindlay also down with flu, we even had to list our first team coach, Stevie Morrison as a sub. "So in the circumstance--it was a wonderful result". However, Livi boss saw it a bit different and stated, "Palmerston Park is never any easy place to come. We knew it would be difficult but we never deserved to lose. For a spell in the second half we were on top but nothing went for us. I didn't think Queens were ever going to score but they got the 'break' with the penalty decision and took it". John O'Neill maintained his remarkable record from the penalty spot and said, "I've never missed from the spot in a competitive match for five years. I try and make up my mind where I want it to go and stick by it. The secret is--be confident" It was the 26th goal from 28 penalties for 'King John'--the last time he missed one was against Berwick in December, 2002. What makes it even more remarkable is the fact that he is now the only 'part-timer' at Palmerston. John works as a recruitment consultant, trains by himself three times a week and only meets up with his team-mates on a Saturday to Saturday basis. Apart from last week of course. Joked an up-beat Jim Thomson, "I've never been blessed with pace and I feel these old legs a bit tired after two hard games in four days. Coming on the back of that win against Dundee, I think I could do with a pair of fresh ones, but I'll just keep soldiering on until it's time for a zimmer". Sponsor's 'Man of the Match' Jim Thomson. Official Attendance 1719. Travelling Support 178. Bill Goldie |
| 200 up for Eric | 29th December 2007 |
Belated congratulations to Eric Paton made his 200th First team appearance against Dundee on Boxing Day. Eric has now been with us for five and a half years and has netted ten goals for the club.
Bill Goldie |
| New signing | 29th December 2007 |
Queens signed a new player this afternoon--Ryan McCann. The 26-year-old was five years with Celtic before moving on to Hartlepool United, St Johnstone and Clyde and in early season he was in Dublin with the Irish side, Bohemians but wanted a move nearer home.
He has been training with us for the past four weeks and goes straight into the squad for the match at Hamilton on Wednesday. Said Gordon Chisholm, "He's impressed me in training and is quite a versatile lad. He can play anywhere in the middle of the park in either a defensive or a midfield role". On the Ian Harty scenario 'Chis' added, "He's been training with us at Glasgow for the past couple of months but there has been no decision made yet about him signing". Bill Goldie |
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