LATEST NEWS
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.
Man of the Match 31st December 2004
Man of the match scoring from Wednesday at Airdrie United:

First - Jim Thomson - 6.62
Second - David Bagan - 6.60
Third - Eric Paton - 6.39

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for player of the season has been updated. Thanks for voting.
A battlecry from 'Scotty' 30th December 2004
Manager, Iain Scott, has blasted out a battlecry to his troops prior to Saturday's vital home match against Hamilton Accies at Palmerston. Said 'Scotty', "This is a massive game for us. It's a 'must-win' match and everyone at the club knows that. The players all know what's required of them and we'll go out there and give it our 'best shot'. I was upset at the Airdrie scoreline, with the chances we created there's no way we should have left pointless. After Wednesday night's results the league table has tightened up considerably with both Partick Thistle and Ross County winning. I fully expect Partick to climb the league now, for they are a good side who are quite capable of putting a run of results together once they get their confidence back.

"We've got some tough fixtures ahead of us over the next few weeks but the lads know the target we've set them to stay in this division--a minimum of 42 points. If we could repeat our first half of the season total of 29 points I'd be delighted, but to achieve that we've got to take our goal-scoring chances when they come. We badly need quality time on the training ground for when games come along 'thick and fast' as they do over the festive period, that's when we require the extra fitness and that's when the 'full-time' sides have a big advantage".

There are two players doubtful for Saturday's Ne'erday clash, goalkeeper Colin Scott and skipper, Steve Bowey. Added 'Scotty', Bowser had a 'dead-leg' at the end of the Airdrie match, but I think a bit of physio should clear that up. Colin has a calf injury and it's his 'kicking' leg, so we'll have to wait and see with that one. But we've an able replacement in Ritchie Barnard. He played well on Wednesday night and couldn't be blamed for either of the goals. However, Colin's still number one keeper and Ritchie knows that, so the onus is on him to dislodge Colin".

Bill Goldie
Big support at Airdrie 30th December 2004
The manager and Board of Directors would like to thank all those Queens' fans who made the trip to Airdrie on such a wet, bleak night. Said Chairman, David Rae, "It was an incredible support considering the weather--the Airdrie directors just couldn't believe it. Their Chairman, Jim Ballantyne, told me they were over 400 Queens' fans up, so thanks again for the tremendous support and I'm sorry we didn't manage to come away with a better result. A Happy New Year to you all and I hope to see you at Palmerston on Saturday".

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 29th December 2004
Tonight wasn't the best of nights for Queens for after going down 2-0 at Airdrie they were to find out that Partick Thistle had beaten Falkirk and Ross County had hammered Raith Rovers. The only good result was St Johnstone winning 3-0 at Hamilton which may dent the confidence of the Douglas Park men for Saturday.

The game was played in very tricky conditions and manager Iain Scott was naturally disappointed with the result. Said Scotty, "We had our chances but didn't take them. We played well for the first fifteen minutes but then they came into the game, scored a goal and dominated to the interval.

"In the second half I honestly felt we were the better side but they got the all important second goal. In the last five minutes we had four great chances - three of them 'one-on-one' with the 'keeper - but we couldn't take any of them. So as I said before if you don't take your chances you don't win games".

Bill Goldie
Colin signs contract extension 29th December 2004
Goalkeeper Colin Scott has signed a one year extension to his contract which will make him a Queens' player through until May, 2006. The 34-year-old ex-Rangers player is now in his fifth season at Palmerston and, all being well, is set to make his 100th appearance for the club in the cup-tie at Montrose a week on Saturday.

Bill Goldie
A big disappointment 27th December 2004
Manager, Iain Scott, was bitterly disappointed at Sunday's Boxing Day match against Clyde being called off. "I fully realise the pitch was unplayable" he said "But we were 'really up for it' and wanted the game played for, apart from Brian Reid, we had a full squad available. It was also a financial disaster for the club. We were hoping for a crowd of between 2500 and 3000 but when the match is eventually re-scheduled, possibly in March, we'll get nothing like that for a mid-week fixture. We'll have lost thousands of pounds!"

Looking forward to the match at Airdrie on Wednesday night (kick-off 7.45 p.m.) 'Scotty' added, "They're playing really well at the moment and it's going to be a difficult one, but we'll go up there and try and keep a 'clean sheet' again. We know we can score goals away from home so we're confident we can get a result. We've beaten them thrice this season without conceding a goal so that will be playing on their minds which should give us a mental advantage.

"We had a full-scale training session at Palmerston this morning and, apart from 'Reidy', all are fit and raring to go".

Bill Goldie
Game called off 26th December 2004
Following a pitch inspection this morning the match scheduled for this afternoon versus Clyde has been called off due to a frozen pitch.
A 'new knee' in his stocking 24th December 2004
Brian Reid now has the Christmas present he's been praying for those past few weeks--a 'new knee'. The big man underwent surgery in Sheffield yesterday and returned home with Kenny Crichton today. Said manager Iain Scott "He's had loose fibres removed from his cruciate and the surgeon also trimmed some lateral ligaments, so he now has what you would call a 'new right knee'. We're told he'll be back jogging in three weeks and, hopefully, playing again in five weeks--so that's great news".

Bill Goldie
New midfielder to sign 24th December 2004
Queens are all set to sign a new midfielder as soon as the 'January Window' opens. He's Steven Bell, a six-foot midfielder from Dundee United who, we're informed, scores his fair quota of goals. Steven has been training with us for the past few weeks, terms have all been agreed, and he's set to put pen to paper early in the new year.

The 19 year old has featured on the bench for United this term and was selected for the Scotland Under 19's earlier this year.
Bill Goldie
Under 19's 23rd December 2004
The Under 19's had a superb victory last night as they took on league leaders Falkirk away from home. The young Dumfries lads under the leadership of Paul McGinley scored a 2-1 victory with Craig Rudd and Mark Wharlow (right) scoring the goals.
Team News 23rd December 2004
Queens hope to have an unchanged squad available for the Boxing Day match with Clyde at Palmerston on Sunday. The only player missing will be Brian Reid who visited a specialist in Sheffield today for another opinion on his knee injury.

Bill Goldie
Scott Talk 22nd December 2004
Manager, Iain Scott, was still re-living the Falkirk match when we spoke to him today. Said 'Scotty', "I can only repeat what I said on Saturday, 'we didn't throw the game away, they won it'. 'Yogi' himself admitted we'd given them one heck of a shock with two goals in the first 14 minutes, but they're a quality side and I couldn't complain at the final score.

"We chose to play 4-5-1 at the start to try and cut out the supply of balls to their strikers who are so lethal, and to hit them on the break and it certainly worked in those early stages. But as happened at Paisley a few weeks ago, our two goal lead lasted for only three minutes and since then we've sat down and had a long talk about it.

"On hindsight, perhaps, we should have brought on a sub and bottled it up in defence, but it's always easy to be wise after the event. They have so many class players it would have been difficult to shut them all out, and at the time we were playing well and I was reluctant to make changes.

"However, we shouldn't feel ashamed. We passed the ball about well and scored two very good goals. In fact, we're only the third side to have scored more than one goal at Brockville this season. Also, I have to say that their pitch was one of the best playing surfaces I've ever come across and I've been in football for quite a few years now".

But 'Scotty' insists he'll be telling his players to forget the 'Brockville Blues'. He added, "It's eight months since we last conceded four goals so we must try and put all that behind us and concentrate fully on the Clyde match on Sunday. They're a 'stuffy' team who have already beaten us twice this season. They are very well organised at the back and can play the game in different ways which makes planning and strategy difficult.

"I'd rather not be playing on Boxing Day which is a public holiday and I'm sure the players would prefer to be relaxing with their wives or girlfriends in front of the fire. Family men like 'Bowser' and Brian McLaughlin would rather be watching their kids playing with their toys but they're footballers and that's the way it goes.

"Wins against Clyde and Hamilton would normally have seen us almost in the 'comfort zone' as no team's be relegated from the present Division One with 36 points. But I feel that may not apply this season for it's so tight at the foot of the table, so we've set a new target of 42 points for survival.

"I've put a total ban on all alcohol over the festive season. That might appear hard but the players have accepted it to a man--they're all professionals and know the score. We've got an extremely difficult period coming up with three games in six days and two of our lads are even working on the Wednesday morning prior to our evening kick-off at Airdrie. I appreciate that New Year's Day in Scotland has always been a popular day for football and I totally accept that, but I just can't understand the logic to play a game on Wednesday, the 29th of December. To me it's crazy!. I'm 'keeping my fingers crossed' we steer clear of injuries, for we're going to need to rotate our squad with such a hectic schedule ahead.

"But that's all my 'moans and groans' for this year so I'd like to wish all Queen of the South fans, wherever you are, a very Happy Christmas and 'Come on you Queens'.

Bill Goldie
Shop Still Open 22nd December 2004
Get your last minute gifts for Queen's fans from the Club Shop at Palmerston or from the other outlets around the area, i.e. the Tourist information office on the Whitesands, Low's Newsagent's in Castle Douglas, the Trophy Shop in Lockerbie. Also available from T B Watson in English Street is a limited edition Single Malt Whisky.
Hospital visit 21st December 2004

Christmas came early for the Children's Ward at Dumfries Infirmary on Monday evening as Dougie Doonhamer and members of the Queen of the South Under 19's squad arrived with gifts for the kids. All of the presents had been donated by the players and coaching staff at Palmerston.

Photograph copyright Angus McDougal

Bill Goldie
News in brief 21st December 2004
Queens' Shop

Any Queens' fan who has Christmas money to spend should pay a visit to the Club Shop at Palmerston. A full range of over 50 items are on sale ranging from footballs and football strips to miniature whiskies and key rings. The shop will be open on Boxing Day from 12.30 to kick-off and again after the match.

Angels of the South

After winning the 'Bell's Angels Fair Play Award' last season, Queens are still keeping up their good behaviour and have the best disciplinary record to date in Division One. We have had only one player 'red-carded', Gary Wood, and although we've picked up 22 bookings we still lead St Johnstone by five points and Airdrie United by eight points. Well done lads!

Ton up for Colin

Most of us know by now that, providing all goes to plan, Jim Thomson will make his 200th appearance for the club in the Ne'erday game against Hamilton. However, J.T. won't be the only player celebrating, for our keeper Colin Scott makes his 100th appearance on that same afternoon. So we hope the weather stays fine.

Bill Goldie
'Daily Record Roadshow' hits Dumfries 21st December 2004
The 'Daily Record Roadshow' will be coming to the Upper Lounge Bar at Palmerston on Tuesday, the 15th of February. It will take the form of a 'Football Forum' and should be an enjoyable evening of questions and answers and football gossip. It will commence at 7.30 p.m., but best be there for around 7.00 p.m. for a good seat.

On the panel will be Scotland and Celtic internationalist, Murdo MacLeod; John Gahagan (ex-Motherwell and Morton), a well-known 'after-dinner' speaker; Daily Record journalist, Gary Ralston and broadcaster Robin Dalgleish from Radio West Sound. Joining them on the panel is Queens' manager, Iain Scott and M.C. for the night will be Peter Martin from Radio Clyde.

Tickets, priced £5.00, will be on sale from Boxing Day onwards at both lounge bars at Palmerston on a 'first come first served basis'.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 20th December 2004
Man of the match scoring from Saturday:

First - Brian McLaughlin - 7.10
Second - Steve Bowey - 6.77
Third - Jim Thomson - 6.70

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for player of the season has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Fan action 18th December 2004
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the celebrations in the aftermatch of Queens taking a two goal lead at Falkirk today. Click on the link below but remember that the clip is large and will take some time to download unless you are on broadband. The best way is to right click on the link and select 'Save Target As', once downloaded you can then select 'Open' from the dialogue box that appears and the whole clip will play uninterrupted.

Celebration scenes - FAN ACTION
Match reaction 18th December 2004
Three weeks ago at Paisley Queens conceded a two goal lead within a few minutes of achieving it and today at Falkirk they did exactly the same. However this time they ended up on the losing side. Danny McBreen, Falkirk's Australian striker was the man who did most of the damage with a well taken hat-trick but there was no doubt Falkirk were the much better side on the day.

Said Scotty at the final whistle, "I've no complaints with the final result. I'll 'hold my hands up' - they deserved their victory so we've just to 'take it on the chin'. Falkirk are a quality side with great movement, particularly up front. There were a lot of chances out there today, they took four and we only took two so that more or less tells the story. Again I'm disappointed that we didn't hold on for more than a few minutes after taking a two goal lead, but Falkirk are a very good side and will take some beating. Nevertheless we're still hanging on in there in fourth spot with two home games in the next three outings and we won't meet teams with the calibre of Falkirk every week".

John Hughes was delighted at his sides spirited fight back but admitted, "Queens gave us one hell of a fright with their two early strikes, they were both well taken goals. At 2-0 down I never dreamed we'd come in at the interval 3-2 up but all credit for Queens. They came here to 'catch us on the break' and they certainly did that. I'm disappointed at the two goals we lost but the lads fought back well and I can't fault their power of recovery".

Bill Goldie
Late team news 17th December 2004
Just when we thought things were 'looking up' on the injury front we've now been informed that two of our young players, Paul Burns and Willie Gibson, have gone down with flu and are unlikely to feature tomorrow.

Bill Goldie
The Chairman's three wishes 16th December 2004
In a frank an exclusive interview for the 'website' this week, chairman David Rae, revealed his wishes for the year ahead, his thoughts on the season to date and a candid view on the opposition and the promotion and relegation issue.
"If I had three wishes for next year I'd like to see Queens have a good run in the Scottish Cup and finish third or fourth in the table. I'd also like to see Tesco come forward with an amicable settlement which would benefit our club, and for this to happen sooner rather than later. And thirdly, to retain as many as possible of our key players for next season.

"I know you will all want to hear my views on the 'Eric Paton saga'. Football can be a messy and complicated business at times and I can only echo the manager's words in the local papers. We have offered Eric a very lucrative contract for we certainly don't want to lose him. The ball is now firmly in his court but I can understand the lure of Premier League football is foremost on his mind, however, he is still under contract with Queens until May 2005. He's an extremely talented player so I fully understand why bigger clubs are after him, but it's really down to the player himself now.
Are you happy with the progress made since the new management team took over? We asked. "Very happy, was the immediate reply, although it's been a peculiar season so far. Early on our away form was superb and we won our first four league matches at St Johnstone, Airdrie, Partick Thistle and Raith Rovers but we couldn't win at home. And,of course, going out of the C.I.S. Cup to Albion Rovers was a really bitter blow. However, the second part of the season was the exact opposite, our away form was disappointing but we won five out of six at Palmerston. Nevertheless, at the halfway stage we're on the 29 point mark and that's only one less than last year.

"We've not conceded a goal at home since mid-October and we've now held fourth place in the table for about ten weeks, so I'm naturally a bit disappointed to see our league attendancies down 20% on last season. Last year at this time we averaged 2537, with three gates over the 3000 mark, but this year our average is only 2005. In our first eight home games last year we had 20,299 through the turnstiles but in the ten home matches to date this season, only 20,048. It's a big drop and I'm perplexed as to where all those missing fans have disappeared to.

"But we're extremely fortunate at Queen of the South to have a 'hardcore' of around 1500 fans who are at pratically every home game. They are the 'lifeblood' of our club and as chairman I can tell you that the Board of Directors, the management and the players themselves appreciate you're faithful support.

"Over the festive season we have two home games coming up, Clyde on Boxing Day and Hamilton on New Years Day. Both are official holidays and most people will be off, so come along and support us and help cheer the lads on to even greater success".

Who do you think will be promoted and relegated this season? We then asked the chairman. "I think that, without doubt, the best team in our league is Falkirk. They're 11 points clear at the moment and are my favourites to go up to the Premier League. We played them early in the season and they beat us 3-1, and I felt even then they were a strong all-round side with a lot of 'fire-power' up front. We play them again on Saturday and I'll tell you right now, I'd be delighted to come back down that road with a point.

"St Mirren are another good side although we seem to play well against them and have taken four points from our two meetings this season. They started really well and topped the table early on, but in recent weeks have fallen away a bit. Clyde are a very difficult team to beat once they get in front for they have a well-organised defence. But they have a relatively small squad and may find the going tough in the long winter months ahead.

"St Johnstone have gradually moved up the table in recent weeks. John Connolly had a shaky start but he's getting better results now, however, I can't see them catching Falkirk. To me Airdrie are the most underrated side in our league and I still say that, although we've beaten them thrice. They have a lot of 'quality' up front with Gow, McLaren and the experience Owen Coyle and I'm sure they'll finish in the top half of the table. I had a chat with Owen after our recent meeting at Palmerston and he couldn't believe how they've never managed to score against us in any of the three games.

"Ross County appear to be playing well away from home but aren't winning enough games at Dingwall while Hamilton have struggled to get a run of decent results going. Partick Thistle have undoubted been the 'shock' team for all the wrong reasons. They started joint favourites to win the championship and regain their Premier League status but currently lie second bottom of the table. I feel a bit sorry for their two young managers who are under a great deal of pressure but I still believe they'll come away strongly in the second half of the season and finish in the middle of the table.

"Gordon Dalziel, however, has a 'mountain to climb' at Raith Rovers. They have quite a few good individual players but don't appear to be gelling into a team and it will be a miracle if they avoid the drop.

"It's anyone's guess who'll come down from the Premier" he stated. "It could be any of six clubs from Kilmarnock down. As for promotion from Division Two. Stranraer lead at the moment and I wouldn't mind them coming up for it would mean more 'local derbys' which always bring in decent gates. Brechin lie second at the moment and with £100,000 coming in for Chris Templeman they'll be able to spend big in the January 'Window'. They're lovely people up there, both the directors and fans, but from a purely selfish side it would mean two more long journeys to the north-east again. However,don't discount Morton who have brought in Templeman, I've a sneaky feeling they won't be far away come May.

"I'll end now but not before wishing the compliments of the season to all connected with Queen of the South and I trust you all have a prosperous New Year".

Bill Goldie
Queens face the league leaders 15th December 2004
Queens tread fresh ground on Saturday with a visit to the new Falkirk Stadium. Unbeaten at home in the league this season and only one defeat away from home, they have netted no fewer than 38 goals are 'odds-on' favourites to win the Championship.

Said manager Iain Scott, "This is about as tough as it gets. Falkirk are 11 points clear at the top of the table and they've got everything we haven't--full-time players, a brand new stadium, better training facilities etc. etc. However our confidence is high at the moment, we're unbeaten in our last four matches and we've got something else money just can't buy--the desire to win.

"But our policy this season is to 'take one game at a time' and that's what we'll do. The first goal could be all-important but I have to admit 'I'll be over the moon with a point'. 'Yogi' Hughes and Brian Rice have worked wonders at Falkirk this season and I have the utmost respect for them both. We have forged close links with them and I speak regularly to 'Yogi' on the phone. But come 3 p.m. on Saturday, that's when the friendship will end.

"For about the first time this season I can announce an unchanged squad. The only player unavailable is Brian Reid who is still seeking professional advice for his injured knee".

Falkirk, however have two 'casualties', John Hughes and Brian Rice. 'Yogi' crashed into an advertising hoarding on Saturday and injured his shoulder which will see him sidelined for six weeks. Brian begins a four match 'touchline ban' and will have to sweat it out in the stand.

Bill Goldie
Eric still talking 15th December 2004
Manager Iain Scott stressed today that Eric Paton and Queens are 'still talking'. Said 'Scotty', "Eric has come back to us today and told us that the offer from the other club 'isn't quite right' so we're still in dialogue".

He added "I can only reiterate what I've already told the local paper. We've made him the best offer we can for we want him to stay at Palmerston. But Eric has been honest with us and admitted he'd still like another go at Premier League football. He loves it at Queens but, financially, we can't compete with the bigger clubs when it comes to money. Nevertheless, he's got to the end of the season to decide and come May, if he still wants a move we'll do all that we can to find him the best club".

'Scotty, however, is still angry at "unprofessional approaches from other clubs" which, he says "unsettles a player when it comes on the eve of an important match".

Bill Goldie
A 'hat-trick' for 'Mambo' 15th December 2004
A Queens' side, which featured many first team players, had a convincing 3-1 victory at Darlington this afternoon. The English second-division outfit had no answer to a rampant Emilio Jaconelli who had a superb game and netted all three goals. Said a delighted 'Scotty', "It was an ideal 'warm-up' for Saturday. Most of our 'fringe players' were in on the action and it was great to get the opportunity to play on such a fine surface at this time of year".

Bill Goldie
Training match at Darlington 14th December 2004
Queens head for Darlington tomorrow (Wednesday) for a training match. The team will comprise first team regulars plus members of the Under-19 squad. Said manager Iain Scott "With training restricted at present, owing to the weather, this is an ideal opportunity to have a good workout against serious opposition".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 13th December 2004
Man of the match scoring from Saturday:

First - David Craig - 8.04
Second - Derek Lyle - 7.71
Third - Jim Thomson - 7.48

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for player of the season has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Another super gesture 4th December 2004
Following last weeks superb gesture by George Blount in donating his half time draw winnings to Queens youth development we hear that this weeks winner David Carroll did likewise. It is a much appreciated gesture and shows just how much the fans are committed to developing the side.
Shop item 12th December 2004
If you are quick you might be able to get your hands on the latest item at the club shop - Queen of the South leather footballs. They are printed up with a different logo on each side of the ball, they were selling like hot cakes yesterday and again today at the special Sunday opening. You can get yours for just £8.
Congratulations 12th December 2004
Congratulations to well known Queens fan, and leading light in the recently formed Supporters Trust, Gordon Harper. Gordon and his wife celebrated the safe arrival of their new baby son last week. Another Queens fan enters the world!
Cup draw reaction 11th December 2004
Queens were drawn away to Montrose in the third round of the Scottish Cup made at 5.00pm today. And the reaction of Palmerston personnel, "It's not what we wanted but it could have been worse".

Said Chairman Davie Rae It's not really the draw we were looking for but we've just got to get on with it. But I'm confident we could beat Montrose and get a better draw in the next round". Skipper Steve Bowey agreed and said, "It's not the best but it's not the worst. We'll go up there as favourites but we've got to be careful. It's a long journey but at least it's a Saturday and not midweek. I would have preferred it at home but that's the way it goes". And Jim Thomson's view, "It's a hard draw but there's not many easy games in football nowadays. It's a long hike to Links Park but we'll have to go up there with a confident frame of mind, win the game and progress to the next round with the chance of meeting one of the big guns". And Brian McLaughlin was the most optimistic and commented, "They're a third division side and we should be able to beat them even though it's away from home. But we can't afford to be complacent and we must go into the game with a better attitude than we showed against Albion Rovers".

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 11th December 2004
Queens maintained their impressive form at 'Fortress Palmerston' this afternoon with a deserved 1-0 triumph over 'bogey team' this season - Ross County who will now face a long dreich journey this evening. That's eight weeks since we conceded a goal at home and we now move up to the 29 point mark, only point short of last seasons mid-way total.

Said a delighted Iain Scott after the game, "The first half was as good as we've played all season and I felt we should have been at least two up at the interval. But Ross County are a good side who pass the ball about well and make it hard for you. They've already beaten us twice this season so I was happy to get revenge today, everyone gave their all and we were again solid in defence with Jim Thomson and David Craig 'massive'. That's four clean sheets in a row at Palmerston and we've now closed the gap on Clyde and St Mirren who are now only three points above us in the table".

A frustrated Alex Smith was not a happy man. Said the County manager, "We had about half a dozen good chances today and couldn't score. And if you can't hit the net you're not going to win games, it's as simple as that".

David Craig who picked up his second Sponsors Man of the Match of the season commented, "That's the best game we've played since I joined the club. We again kept it tight at the back and Jim Thomson and myself have a good relationship going. We do a lot of talking to each other during the game and we've built up a decent understanding".

______________
Before any rumours start we'd like to point out Sean O'Connor was just up to see his old team mates play - nothing else. Quipped physio Kenny Crichton, "Sean was up for the annual opening of big Reidy's wallet!

Bill Goldie
Sanquhar donation 9th December 2004
Members and Office bearers of the Sanquhar Queen of the South supporters club were at Palmerston on Saturday and one of their senior members, Mr Jim Hogg, handed over a cheque for £1,000 to Chairman Davie Rae for youth development.
Down from Dingwall. 8th December 2004
On Saturday we play hosts to Ross County. This will be our third meeting with the Dingwall side this season and they've beaten us in both the previous encounters--1-0 on each occasion. Although their home form hasn't been too good, away from home they've collected 14 points in nine games, which is quite impressive.

Speaking about the game manager Iain Scott admitted, "I'm well aware they've beaten us twice this season and to be fair they're a good side and should have won by more than a single goal up at Dingwall. But we've tightened up defensively since then and in the past couple of months Palmerston has been a virtual fortress and that's the way I want it to remain. We've had 'clean sheets' in our last three home fixtures, where before we were conceding a stupid goal and losing the game.

"We're also scoring more goals as well. A week or two ago I asked our players for 'more goals' and they've obliged with four in our last two matches. I also called for 'goals from others rather than just our strikers'. 'Bowser' netted at St Mirren and Eric Paton on Saturday and with Del Lyle now settled in and scoring two in two outings, that's the kind of input I'm looking for.

"We're only five points off second top place and a victory on Saturday would see us reach the half-way point of the season with 29 points, only one point less than we were last season. So I certainly can't complain at that.

"Even though we're up there challenging, our home gates have dipped a bit which is disappointing for the club. On Saturday evening the draw for the third round of the Scottish Cup is due to take place and all the 'big guns' are in it. For valuable financial income I'd like Rangers or Celtic, away, which would be a real saviour for us. Losing 'early doors' to Albion Rovers in the C.I.S. Cup was a huge blow so this will probably be our last opportunity this season to redeem ourselves.

"After our New Years Day game against Hamilton we'll only have six home league fixtures through to May which will bring only minimal income so that's why we're hoping to make some money out of the cup. Last season we'd two good away gates against Hibs and Motherwell and the previous season two cup-ties against Aberdeen so this may be our last chance of a big gate to bring in the capital Queen of the South requires for financial stability".

Team News

For Saturday's match Gary Wood returns to the squad after a two-match suspension but Brian Reid is still out of action owing to his knee problem.

Bill Goldie
Youth contribution 7th December 2004
Castle Douglas newsagent Drew Low hands over a cheque for £150 to Under 19's player Scott Robertson to aid youth development at Palmerston.
News in brief. 6th December 2004
Ex-Queen of the South keeper Andy Goram could be pulling on the goalies' gloves again in the not-too-distant future. Andy is all set to sign for junior side, Newtongrange Star on a short-time basis while their regular keeper is off on a month's holiday. Andy was capped 43 times for Scotland, played 260 games for Rangers, made 21 appearances for Queens but left in March 2003.

Three former Queen' men figured prominently in the top Junior Cup tie played on Saturday--Auchinleck Talbot v Bo'ness. Ex-Northern Ireland internationalist, George O'Boyle scored the opener for Bo'ness but Derek Anderson headed home the equaliser for the home side.Also in the Auchinleck line-up was former Killie and Queens' favourite, midfielder Stuart Davidson.

On to Tynecastle now and two other Palmerston favourites were in the 'thick of the action' as Hearts beat Dunfermline, 3-0. Jamie McAlister and Robbie Neilson both starred for the home side in a convincing victory and talking to the 'website' Robbie said, "It's been a great couple of weeks for me, scoring that vital goal, my first for Hearts, which helped us progress in Europe then moving up the table with the win on Saturday. But I still remember my time at Palmerston which 'kick-started' my career. I recall my first game for Queens when we beat St Mirren 5-3 at Paisley to qualify for the Challenge Cup final--also the final itself at Broadwood which was a great day out. The Queens' score is the first result I look for when I come off the park on Saturdays and when Hearts are playing away from home in Aberdeen or places like that my mum and dad still go to watch Queens if they happen to be playing somewhere in the central belt.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 6th December 2004
Man of the match scoring from Saturday:

First equal - Eric Paton and Brian McLaughlin - 7.80
Third - Jim Thomson - 7.26

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for player of the season has been updated. Thanks for voting.
100 not out 5th December 2004
Queen's Vice Chairman Tommy Harkness presents Skipper Steve Bowey with a statuette to commemorate his 100th appearance for Queens which he achieved at Paisley last week.
Match reaction 4th December 2004
Queens strolled to a convincing 2-0 victory over Raith Rovers this afternoon, our fourth win in five games at Palmerston. It was a good workmanlike performance on a tricky pitch, the highlight being a magnificent strike by Eric Paton for the second goal.

Said a smiling Iain Scott after the game, "I'll take that, we won quite comfortably in the end and we're still up there in fourth place. We kept their scoring chances to a minimum and Colin Scott didn't have too many difficult moments. We got a good break for the opening goal but Derek Lyle tucked it away nicely - a real strikers goal and that's two in two games for him now. And what can you say about Eric Paton's goal? It was 'out of this world' - a 'wonder strike'. But I'm not going to single out any one player, it was a good all round team performance against a well organised Raith Rovers side".

However the Raith Rovers manager was an angry and disappointed man. Raged Gordon Dalziel "Our players are just not responding to what they're being told and I don't think we had one serious goal threat in the entire game".

The happiest man in the Queen's dressing room was undoubtedly Eric Paton who netted his first goal of the season and was also voted Sponsors Man of the Match. Said Eric, "It was a move we sometimes practised in training. Willie Gibson set it up for me from a corner and I just hit it and it looked good all the way. It's nice to get back on the scoresheet again, I'm told it's over a year since I last scored in the 4-1 win against Clyde and coming straight from a 'training ground' move made it an extra bonus.

Bill Goldie
Goal Action 4th December 2004
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the decisive goal from the win over Raith Rovers at Palmerston today. Click on the link below but remember that the clip is large and will take some time to download unless you are on broadband. The best way is to right click on the link and select 'Save Target As', once downloaded you can then select 'Open' from the dialogue box that appears and the whole clip will play uninterrupted.

The decisive goal today from Eric Paton - GOAL ACTION
Super gesture 4th December 2004
One very generous gesture which we feel should be mentioned concerned the halt time lucky draw today at Palmerston. It was won by Mr George Blount, (Father of former Chairman Norman Blount), but he immediately handed the prize money of £190 back to chairman Davie Rae to go towards youth development at the club.

Bill Goldie
Club Shop Open Sunday's 3rd December 2004
Starting this Sunday and running for the next three, i.e. the 5th, 12th and 19th December the Club SHop at Palmerston will open it's doors between 2.00pm and 4.00pm to enable you to pick up all those Queen of the South essential gifts. There is also extended opening hours on match days with the Shop being open from 11.00am tomorrow until just before kick-off and again after the match.

There are over fifty items in stock including Queen of the South Christmas cards, 85th Anniversary Whisky and many other new items.
New Queens Book 3rd December 2004
A new book featuring Queens is now on sale, it chronicles the 85 years of Queens existence and is available for £15 from the publishers - Creedon Publications. Match day program editor Bruce Wright is taking orders for the publication and you can reserve yours by emailing Bruce at Solway Offset.

As soon as the books are available, hopefully before Christmas, Creedon Publications will contact you directly via email if you order one.
J.T. signs till 2007 2nd December 2004
Jim Thomson signed a two year extension to his contract last night which will tie him to the club until May, 2007. Jim is already under contract to May next year but the new deal could now see him finish his career at Palmerston. Now 33, Jim is our longest-serving player following the departure of Andy Aitken during the close season.

He first arrived at Palmerston from Stenhousemuir in January, 1997, but at the end of season 1998-1999 he moved to Arbroath for 'personal reasons' but it was a move he didn't really want to make at the time. However, after two years at Gayfield John Connolly brought him back to Queen of the South, the club he calls 'home', and he has been a stalwart in defence ever since.

Saturday will see him make his 195th appearance for Queens and, barring injury, suspension and postponement he is set to hit the 200 mark against Hamilton on New Year's Day.
An ever-present this season, Jim says, "I'm 'over the moon' to have signed this new contract. In present day football a long-term contract gives you security, for if you're out of contract nowadays, it's not always easy to find a new club. I feel I'm playing quite well this season and I'm really enjoying my football. We've a great team-spirit and the atmosphere in the dressing-room is brilliant. You can't ask for more than that. Dumfries is my home now and I love it down here away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. I also love the club and the Queens' fans, many of whom are now personal friends, and they've always stood by me through good times and bad".

Bill Goldie
Tommy Bryce 2nd December 2004
It was good to hear today that a player considered a legend by many fans at Palmerston still keeps a keen interest on what is happening at the club. Tommy Bryce, now managing Ayrshire Juniors side Kilbirnie was speaking to Queen's Press Officer Bill Goldie and let Bill know that he is a regular visitor to the Queens official website and holds the club in very high regard as one of his favourite sides.

We're sure that we speak for all Queens fans in wishing Tommy the best of luck managing the Ayrshire side.
Raith Rovers at Palmerston 1st December 2004
Queens face bottom-of-the league Raith Rovers at Palmerston on Saturday but it's no time for complacency. Since Gordon Dalziel took over a few weeks ago the Kirkcaldy side have had some encouraging results, the best being a win over St Johnstone. They are one of only two sides we failed to beat at home last season and with a busy programme coming up (including four matches at Palmerston) manager, Iain Scott, is hoping to make home advantage count.

Said 'Scotty', "This is a crucial time of the season for us as we are only three point adrift of last year's total and it would be great to get more points on the board before we commence our Scottish Cup campaign. We've actually six games to play in 28 days, four of them at home, it's a daunting task for a part-time side. I know it's the same for every club in our league but they're all practically full-time and their players can get a day off following a match while most of our lads have to go back to work.

"Back in August and September our home form was very poor but since then we've won three out of four. At that time I asked our fans to 'stick with us'. I also asked for their full backing and they've certainly given that. But the Queens' fans have always been brilliant, very loud and supportive, and that's the way I like it. They were again fantastic at Paisley on Saturday and it was good that we could give them two goals to cheer. That's four goals against St Mirren this season, the team with the best defensive record in our division. I was pleased to see Del Lyle find the net, for scoring goals is so important for a striker. Del's a quality player and although he was at Dunfermline he was playing reserve football and needed to sharpen up a bit on his return. I also asked for more goals from the midfielders and 'Bowser' obliged with a great strike laid on by a cunning Brian McLaughlin backheel. 'Bowser's been working extremely hard at training recently and I was delighted to see him score again. That's three this season, but we've set him a target and he knows what we expect from him.

"On Saturday we have Raith Rovers at Palmerston and although they're bottom of the league there's no way we will underestimate them. Gordon's got them tightened up at the back and they're dangerous on the break so we must guard against complacency. We spoke about it right after the game at Love Street and warned all the lads what could happen. The last thing I want is a repetition of the Albion Rovers disaster. However, it will be nice to have the luxury of having almost a full squad to choose from for the first time this season. My biggest problem now is who to leave out? But I'd rather have it that way than the other.

"Paul Burns will be back after his nasty leg injury. He's as 'tough as old boots' is young Paul and a quick healer into the bargain. However, Gary Wood will still be missing, he's got another game's suspension to serve, Chris Armstrong is down with flu and the only other absentee is big Brian Reid who's now to go to Edinburgh to see a specialist about his knee problem".

Speaking to the 'Website' today, Raith Rovers recently appointed manager, Gordon Dalziel said, "Yes, I'm really looking forward to the game and we're well aware it's going to be a tough one. Queens are doing well again this season and they drew with St Mirren at Love Street on Saturday and at 2-0 up should really have won. During my playing career I always enjoyed my trips down to Dumfries. Palmerston is a nice park to play on so there can be no excuses on that score and I've had many a battle there as a player with both Raith Rovers and Ayr United. In my seven years as manager of Ayr I was there on numerous occasions and enjoyed some good 'local derby' matches and I was actually down just last season with the Ayr youth team.

"But we've had some decent results ourselves in recent weeks and I'd like to think the players are gradually getting their confidence back. None the less we know it will be difficult on Saturday for Queens have won three of their last four home games but we're hoping it will be a good match".

Bill Goldie
AGM 30th November 2004
The Annual General Meeting of Queen of the South Football Club Limited was held this evening at the Nith Hotel Glencaple. A large number of shareholders were present and heard the presentation of the accounts from Chairman David Rae.

Following the formal business a 'football forum' was held with manager Iain Scott taking questions and comments from the assembled audience. An interesting and informative session ended approximately an hour after the meeting had commenced.
Man of the Match 29th November 2004
Man of the match scoring from Saturday:

First equal - Jim Thomson and Brian McLaughlin - 7.07
Third - Steve Bowey - 7.00

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for player of the season has been updated. Thanks for voting.
AGM 28th November 2004
The Annual General Meeting of Queen of the South Football Club Limited will take place on Tuesday evening 30th November. All shareholders are invited to attend the AGM which is being held at the Nith Hotel, Glencaple and starts at 7.30pm.
Goal Action 27th November 2004
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the goals from the draw at Love Street versus St Mirren today. Click on the link below but remember that the clip is large and will take some time to download unless you are on broadband. The best way is to right click on the link and select 'Save Target As', once downloaded you can then select 'Open' from the dialogue box that appears and the whole clip will play uninterrupted.

Two goals today - one from Lyle and the second from Bowser - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 27th November 2004
Queens earned a good point with a 2-2 draw against St Mirren in Paisley this afternoon. Prior to the match the majority of Queens fans would gladly have settled for the draw but after leading 2-0 some would be a bit disappointed at the final scoreline.

After a goal less first half the game burst into life just after interval with three goals in six minutes but the homesters hit an equaliser fifteen minutes from time however to be fair a draw was probably just right.

And just to underline once again what an unpredictable league this is, none of the top three managed to win today.

After the match manager Iain Scott said he was leaving Love Street with "mixed feelings", said Scotty, "Coming into the game I would have accepted a point but after going two ahead I was naturally a little disappointed. After getting the two goal advantage I felt we could have done to hold out for at least ten minutes before conceding a goal and I'd like to take a closer look on video as to how their opening came about. However we're not going to go away from home and 'murder' any team in this league - it just doesn't happen.

"Once again I couldn't have asked for any more effort from the players, they all worked hard, we defended well and it was a workmanlike ninety minute shift by everyone. St Mirren are a very good side and very solid and there's no team left Paisley with any more than a single point this season. They push you high up the park and are really getting results this season. Speaking to Gus McPherson afterwards he said he thought St Mirren had had the 'lion's share' of the play but he always takes it as a compliment that teams now come to Love Street and show St Mirren respect by playing it tight".

Bill Goldie
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