LATEST NEWS
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.
Brian Reid signs an extension contract 31st January 2005
More big news tonight, Brian Reid has signed a years extension to his existing contract which makes him a Queens' player through until May 2006. Said manager Iain Scott, "Considering he hadn't played for three months, has had only five training sessions and played on a very bumpy pitch on Saturday, I thought Brian was immense". Said the big man himself, "I'm very happy to sign an extension. I'm enjoying life at Palmerston, I love the coaching side and also working with all the young players".

Bill Goldie
David Bagan released 31st January 2005
Queens today released David Bagan from his contract to allow him to join St Johnstone, the club he signed a pre-contract agreement with last week. Said 'Scotty', "He's now off our pay-role and free to play at Perth whenever he likes. It's no use keeping a player that wouldn't be playing".

Bill Goldie
Premier League player signs for Queens 31st January 2005



Queens just beat the January 'Window' closure at midnight tonight to sign ex-Livingston skipper, Stuart Lovell. The experienced midfielder, just turned 33, had been with Livingston for three and a half years. Born in Sydney, Australia, Stuart previously had a three year spell at Hibs and before that was at Reading for ten years. He has signed on a part-time contract until the end of the season but Queens have first option on him for next season.
Photo courtesy Angus MacDougal
Stuart admitted to the 'Website' that it was a personal friendship with Iain Scott that made him sign for Queens. He said, "My manager, Richard Gough, phoned me last week and told me that due to an influx of midfielders at the club he couldn't guarantee me a regular first team spot any more. He did say that St Johnstone were interested in me but while doing my A Licence course at Largs last year I got friendly with Iain and he told me 'If ever I was looking for a new club to give him a ring, for he was looking for someone like me'. So I took him to his word, phoned him, and the rest you know.

"Scotty said he was keen to get me signed quickly, firstly before the transfer deadline and secondly, because there were a 'lot of predators out there". Alas, Stuart won't be available on Saturday as he is 'cup-tied'.

Bill Goldie
COUNTDOWN TO THE CUP--1 31st January 2005
Today we kick-off another 'Countdown to the Cup' with a trip down memory lane and a look at our previous cup clashes with Dundee United. And over the next few days we hope to feature interviews with David Craig, a former United player; Tannadice manager, Ian McCall; Queens' manager, Iain Scott and also our Chairman, David Rae.

Down Memory Lane

Five times Queens have come up against Dundee United in the Scottish Cup and five times we've been knocked out. So all our fans will be looking for us to 'break our duck' and beat the 'Arabs' on Saturday. Statistics are certainly not in our favour, but it's a cup-tie and anything can happen.

Our first two meetings with the Tannadice side were real 'marathons' and it took three matches and 300 minutes of football on each occasion before a winner emerged. No 'golden goals' or 'penalty shoot-outs' in those days.

January 30th, 1932, was the date of our first ever Scottish Cup clash and a record crowd of 8000 was at Palmerston to witness an exciting encounter which ended in a 2-2 draw. The replay was also drawn but in a third match, played at Ibrox, we were narrowly beaten, 2-1. That second replay took place on a Monday and transport was very limited in the 30's. It was reported at the time that one hardy batch of Queens' fans set off on the Sunday and cycled all the way to Glasgow and back. Now, that's dedication for you! It was to be 31 years before we were drawn together again and unbelievably it once more went to three matches. However, following draws at Tannadice and Dumfries we were well beaten, 4-0, in the second replay which was again held at Ibrox Stadium.

Our three other meetings were mild in comparison to those two epic battles. In 1978, after knocking out Montrose, we travelled to Tannadice as underdogs and that's how it turned out as we crashed, 3-0, to a much superior United side.

1985 was to be our next confrontation. In the early rounds we had knocked out both Arbroath and Montrose in home ties and in a thrilling third round tussle we beat our old adversaries Stranraer, 6-4, at Stair Park. However, our cup dream was once more shattered by a rampant Dundee United who crushed us 3-0 at Palmerston.

Five years on and our paths were to cross again. Cove Rangers, Stenhousemuir and Alloa were all disposed off but Tannadice was to become our 'graveyard' yet again. The game took place on Monday, 24th February and the crowd of 6000 were shocked when Queens opened the scoring after only 90 seconds, Stuart Gordon heading home a Jimmy Robertson corner. We battled bravely but United gradually came back into the game and eventually triumphed, 2-1.

So come Saturday, what are our chances?

Tomorrow night on 'Countdown to the Cup' we feature David Craig, a former United player himself.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 31st January 2005
Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus St Mirren went as follows:

First - Eric Paton - 7.47
Second equal - Brian Reid and Steve Bowey - 6.88

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 familiar face at Palmerston 30th January 2005
A special guest at yesterday's match was Willie Morrison who played right-back for Queens in the early 1960s. He made 193 appearances for the club and was a regular in the defence that read: Farm, Morrison, McTurk, Irving, Rugg and Murphy. Willie now stays in Glenboig near Coatbridge and is a good friend of another ex-Palmerston favourite, Des McKeown. He admits that the Queen' result is the first one he looks for every Saturday. His full story is featured in yesterday's match programme in the excellent series of articles by Colin Rutherford, 'Where are they Now'.

Bill Goldie
Under-19s win again 30th January 2005
Queens' Under-19s chalked up another good win today with a comfortable 4-2 victory at Stenhousemuir. Mark Brown netted mid-way through the first half to put Queens in front but they then spurned a couple of good chances and were punished when Stenny equalised direct from a free kick. Queens, however, replied immediately when the towering Stuart Hill rose highest to head home a Gareth Campbell cross.

Queens continued to pile on the pressure in the second half and only some fine saves by the home keeper kept their eager forwards at bay. Nevertheless, Ross Beattie made it 3-1 with a tremendous shot and Craig Rudd put the issue beyond doubt, scoring from close range after the keeper had saved a Stuart Cluckie header.

Stenhousemuir did reduce the leeway late in the game but it was too little, too late.

Bill Goldie
Big Flag Appeal 29th January 2005
Anyone have a 'big' Queens flag, like the size of the Travel Club one draped over the Terregles Street end today? If so then please get to Palmerston early next Saturday and make yourself known as we would like to cover the whole end with Queens flags prior to the match with Dundee United in the Cup.
Stalemate at Palmerston 29th January 2005
A bumpy pitch and two defences that snuffed out the opposition forwards led to the first goal-less draw of the season for Queens. Both managers confessed to being "relatively happy" with a share of the spoils but the Palmerston pitch came in for a bit of criticism. Said Queens manager Iain Scott "That's enough to get football done away with! We had two teams out there that usually like to pass the ball about but conditions didn't allow that. But I'm happy with a point, I'll not complain at that. I don't think our 'keeper, Colin Scott, had a serious shot to save but their 'keeper, Craig Hinchcliffe, made two brilliant saves - first from Bowser and then from an Eric Paton free kick. I thought both of them were going in. I was much happier with our defence today, that was the best I've seen them for several weeks. The return of Brian Reid was a massive boost for us and I saw no sign of panic in our rear guard this afternoon".

Gus McPherson wholeheartedly agreed with his counterpart. Said the St Mirren boss man, "There was no place for pretty football out there. I'm going back up the road with a point and I'll settle for that".

Queens latest signing Alex Williams had a quiet home debut. Said the on loan striker, "It's tougher and more physical than the second division and there was a better quality of player on both sides. I got a bit of 'stick' from the St Mirren fans but I was expecting it and it didn't bother me in the slightest. And naturally with me being a Morton player there is a lot of local rivalry between the two clubs".

Bill Goldie
Congratulations 28th January 2005
Congratulations to former club captain and long serving Queens player Andy Aitken and his wife Kerry on the birth of their first child Olivia, born on the 27th January. Well done and best wishes from everyone at Queens.
Team News 27th January 2005
Brian Reid may be back for Saturday's game against St Mirren. The commanding central defender has been out since the end of October with knee problems but is keen to get back in action.

But manager Iain Scott stressed "Brian's back in the squad, but it will be a last-minute decision whether he takes to the field or not. The way the park is at the moment, I won't be taking any risks. Paul Burns is also in the pool, but again, it will be 50-50 whether he's involved. Paul's a young lad and he's had a hard season. In his last two outings he's looked a bit 'burnt out', so it's another 'wait and see' job.

"Gary Wood is definitely out, he's still struggling with that neck injury. Also unavailable is Tommy English with ligament trouble and Stephen Payne".

Brian Reid admitted he's just glad to be in contention again. Said the big man, "I've had a worrying time. I thought it was a recurrence of my old cruciate injury which could have put my whole career in jeopardy, but after my operation the doctor told me it had nothing to do with that. It was a big relief so now I'm fit, available for selection and itching to go. However, the final decision rests with the gaffer".

Bill Goldie
Bagan signs at Perth 27th January 2005
David Bagan today signed a pre-contractual agreement with St Johnstone. However, the midfielder is still a Queen of the South player until the end of the season and Queens are still entitled to listen to any financial offers which may come from others clubs until then.

Bill Goldie
Q.O.S. v St Mirren 26th January 2005
Queens take on St Mirren at Palmerston this Saturday and will be hoping to put three more precious points on the board. Said manager, Iain Scott, "St Mirren and Queens both won last Saturday so they should be two sides starting the match in confident mood. It's my belief that St Mirren are one of the better football playing sides in our league. They like to get forward and attack and, like ourselves, play football on the floor the way it should be played.

"I've great admiration for Gus McPherson and his coaching staff at Love Street and in the relatively short time he's been there I think he's done a good job. We've already met twice this season, we won 2-1 at Palmerston and at Paisley it ended in a draw. I said at the start of the season, if we win our home games and draw away I'd be happy. So having said that I'm looking to take three points on Saturday. However I know it's going to be tough".

Prior to the match there will be a 'double' presentation to Jim Thomson and Colin Scott who recently notched up 200 and 100 appearances respectively.

Bill Goldie
Eric and Del sign extensions 25th January 2005
Great news for all Queens' fans today--two of our top players have signed two year extensions to their existing contracts which is a real coup for the club. The duo are Eric Paton and Derek Lyle and this will tie them to Queen of the South through to May 2007.

Manager, Iain Scott was naturally 'over the moon' at pulling of the deals. Said 'Scotty', "We've been negotiating with the players for several weeks and now it's come to fruition. I'm absolutely delighted. Eric and Del will become full-time, training and helping coach the young players five days a week and, of course, training with the squad as usual two nights a week. Eric will be giving up his part-time day job to concentrate solely on football and Del, who up until now has been training at Dunfermline during the day, will join his pal Eric at Palmerston. Derek has been affected least by the lack of training owing to the heavy rain of late and the facility at East End Park has been beneficial for, in recent weeks, he has looked that bit fitter and sharper than some of the other players.

"Our policy now is to get key players signed up early on longer term contracts rather than wait until the end of the season. This move has more or less been forced upon us with managers now allowed to approach players when they're still under contract. Our players have even been contacted on the Thursday or Friday before a match which is most unsettling for the individual concerned.

"Eric Paton told me all along he didn't want to leave Queens even though he was offered two financial deals by St Johnstone which were much better than we could ever had come up with. He sees his future here at Palmerston and has opted to stay rather than join his old boss, John Connolly, at Perth. Derek Lyle has also decided to stay despite other sides showing a keen interest in him.

"In recent weeks Jim Thomson and Colin Scott have both signed extension contracts and I'm currently in dialogue with others. I'm actually hoping to make a further announcement in the not too distant future. Very few players want to leave Palmerston, in fact players are now approaching the club looking for new contracts. That's good, for it means they want to be part of the future with Queen of the South.

"For instance,young Chris Carr, the left-sided defender is back training with us again. Chris would love a contract and we'd like to offer him one. But he's asking for more than we're prepared to offer at the present moment. Yet another player who has signed an extension is Brian McLaughlin. He has agreed an extra year on a part-time basis. Brian is now working in Dumfries for the Youth Enquiry Service and appears to be enjoying it".

All we can say is 'well done Scotty', keep up the good work.

Bill Goldie
Bowser signs as well 25th January 2005
Queens made it a 'hat-trick' of signings late this afternoon with team captain, Steve Bowey, putting pen to paper. Said 'Scotty', "That's another big boost for us. Bowser, however, is still on a part-time contract. He will have at least one full day a week at Palmerston for extra training on top of his normal routine. But he always keeps himself in 'tip-top' condition, so we don't have a problem on that score".

Bill Goldie
The Bagan scenario 25th January 2005
Over the past few days there have been various stories in the national newspapers regarding a swop deal between St Johnstone's Ross Forsyth and our own midfielder, David Bagan. So Queens' manager, Iain Scott, spoke out today to clarify the position. Said 'Scotty', "At this moment in time there has been no swop deal agreed between ourselves and St Johnstone concerning David Bagan. David is contracted to Queen of the South until the end of the season and that's how it's going to stay.

"We did have Ross Forsyth down training with us last night, but it was simply to have a look at the lad, nothing more than that. Last week we offered David Bagan a full-time contract. He went home, discussed it with his family and came back and told us he was going to sign. On the very day the contract was to be officially signed David changed his mind. He told us that St Johnstone had contacted him with a view to signing and, with the full-time facilities they had up there, he would like the chance to talk to them.

"We've given him permission to speak to St Johnstone, in fact he's up there today, but subsequently the contract we offered has been taken off the table"

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 24th January 2005
Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus Raith Rovers went as follows:

First - Derek Lyle - 7.44
Second - Colin Scott - 7.28
Third - Eric Paton - 6.88

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Under 19's win at Alloa 23rd January 2005
Queens Under 19's were away for the sixth game in a row today but still managed a victory by beating Alloa 2-0.

The match started at a high tempo with Queens going ahead in the opening minute, after good work by Mark Whorlow and Alan Ingles, Scott Robertson netted from close range.

Queens were always in command and the second goal came a minute after the interval. It was almost an action replay of the opener, Robertson again scoring with Whorlow and Ingles setting it up.

In the second half Alloa had a couple of chances but the Queens rear guard held firm for a comfortable victory.

Bill Goldie
Alex Williams--Glad to be here 23rd January 2005
Speaking to the 'Website' just prior to his debut yesterday, new signing, Alex Williams said, "I've never played First Division football before and Queen of the South have now given me the opportunity to prove myself in a higher league. The manager told me all about the club and their plans for he future. He said he wanted me to come and give it a go--so here I am and I'm happy to be here!.

"I know Derek Lyle quite well and he told me Queens were a good club to play for and I'd be made welcome--and I have. I've actually only played at Palmerston twice--once when I was a youngster at Stirling Albion, I came on as a sub and scored a goal, and the other time was with Morton. It was in the Challenge Cup and was a very physical match which Queens won, 1-0. I remember big Sean O'Connor being stretchered off with a bad injury near the end and we finished the game with only eight players.

"So, if I'm playing against St Mirren on Saturday, I hope it will be a better game than that".

Bill Goldie
Goal action 8th January 2005
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the goal that ended our bad run today at Kirkcaldy. Scored by Derek Lyle, there was no way back for the home side with just three minutes left on the clock. 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.

Derek Lyle wins the match - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 22nd January 2005
A Derek Lyle goal three minutes from time earned Queens three points and opened up the gap between them and Hamilton and Partick Thistle at the foot of the table. Alex Williams making his debut set up the chance for Del boy who stroked it home confidently. Manager Iain Scott heaved a sigh of relief at the final whistle and said, "I'm delighted, the pressure was really on us today but the lads fought for every ball and I was proud of them. But it certainly isn't good for a managers nerves. We'd lost our last four away games in the league, in fact it was against Raith Rovers at Starks Park back in October that we last won. So it was a massive game for us and a 'must win' match. We got the break late on but we took it. Alex Williams set it up for Del boy and he doesn't miss many chances like that. We had a long talk on Wednesday night which proved productive. I told the players my feelings and they in turn told me what they thought, so I think it must have worked".

Goal hero Derek Lyle was a happy man after the match. He said, "I'm told that's seven goals in nine games and I'm thrilled with that, Alex set me up well and I hope it's the start of a successful partnership".

Bill Goldie
Congratulations 22nd January 2005
Our best wishes go to well known Queens fan Sandy Orr who has just expanded his family with the birth of Alexander this morning. Well done to Sandy, Kirsty and Katie.
Team News 20th January 2005
Regarding the team news for Saturday 'Scotty' said, "We completed the loan deal with Alex Williams yesterday and he'll go straight into the squad to face Raith Rovers. He's the type of player I like--he's got a lot of pace and can certainly score goals. He looked really sharp in training and I'm delighted he's signed for us. We targeted him at the start of the season but were quoted an asking price of £45,000--so to get him for free is an added bonus.

"Paul Burns and Steven Bell are both doubtful. Paul has an ankle knock while Steven has a back injury which he sustained at Firhill. Gary Wood is also unlikely to feature owing to his neck injury. Brian Reid has commenced training again and I'm hoping he'll be back in action in the next couple of weeks.

"We're still targeting several players with a view to signing and the young 20-year-old left-sided defender I was talking about, Chris Carr, is back training with us after travelling south last week for a trial with an English league club. Chris has been with both Newcastle United and Sheffield Wednesday and has been training with us since Christmas. So we're giving that one serious thought".

Bill Goldie
Off to Kirkcaldy 20th January 2005
Queens travel to Kirkcaldy on Saturday to meet bottom of the league, Raith Rovers. On our last visit there on the 25th September we won, 2-1, with goals from Tommy English and Steve Bowey. And, believe it or not, that was the last time we won away from home in the league. Manager, Iain Scott says he's well aware of the failing and added, "We started off so well in our away games, beating St Johnstone, Airdrie, Partick and Raith but then we 'lost our way' a bit. However, it's now it's imperative we get back to our winning ways. I know our players are capable for they proved that early in the season, but most of the goals we've conceded have come from individual errors. On several occasions we've scored the first goal, and twice the first two goals, but then we've 'gone to sleep' and the next thing we know we're behind. That can't go on, and all our players have been told that if they don't perform, they won't be here.

"Saturday's match is a massive game for us and we need a win and all three points. It won't be easy for Raith beat St Mirren at the weekend and that will certainly have 'given them a lift and boasted their confidence. Gordon Dalziel changed his side about a bit and brought in some young lads which appeared to have helped. So it will be another tough one".

The league is so tight now with seven teams all within nine points of each other. If we win two on the trot we could effectively move into third spot but if we lose our next two we could drop to second bottom. That's how competitive it is.

Bill Goldie
Stuck in the Mud 19th January 2005
"Mud, mud, glorious mud" used to be a favourite football anthem for the 'Tynecastle Faithful'. But don't mention the word 'mud' to Queens' boss, Iain Scott, for the incessant rain in recent weeks has played havoc with the club's training routine. Said 'Scotty', "It's been a real problem, and now it's affecting our results. We've lost our last four league matches and conceded 11 goals into the bargain. Our defending at Firhill on Saturday was the worst I've seen for about two years and I blame it on the lack of proper training facilities. We had around 400 fans up at Glasgow for the game and it wasn't fair on them.

"We're having to train at Palmerston and it's so wet we're cutting the park up. After Saturday we've two home games coming up, St Mirren and then Dundee United in the cup. So our groundsman Kevin McCormick will have his work cut out to get the pitch back in shape. On top of that we've been asked by the Crichton not to use our training ground up there for it's getting damaged as well. We were in the habit of playing the occasional training match there during the day when we could get enough first-team players and young players together, but now that's been hit on the head as well. It's very disheartening".

Bill Goldie
Queen of the South v Dundee United 19th January 2005
Admission for the cup-tie at Palmerston on Saturday, 5th February will be £14.00 (£7.00 concessions for senior citizens and juveniles). The match will not be all ticket. Season tickets are not valid for this game.

Bill Goldie
Williams joins on loan deal 19th January 2005
Morton striker, Alex Williams, last night agreed a loan deal which will make him a Queens' player to the end of the season. The deal is in view to a permanent contract, and no fee was involved. The Glasgow born forward turned 22 on Saturday and was the Cappielow club's leading scorer last season with 15 goals to his credit. Alex is expected to go straight into the squad for this week's match against Raith Rovers. His previous club was Stirling Albion where he served his apprenticeship.

Alex Williams officially signed his contract at 3 p.m. today. (19th January 2005)

Bill Goldie
www.gmfc.net
'Daily Record Roadshow' at Palmerston 18th January 2005
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. It is sponsored by Bell's Whisky.

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, are now on sale at both lounge bars at Palmerston, from Low's Newsagents in Castle Douglas and also obtainable from the Doonhamers Travel Club (Jim McCormick). They will be available on a 'first come first served basis'.

Bill Goldie
Gretna 3-4 Dundee United 17th January 2005
Said Chairman Davie Rae, who was at the game himself, "I stated last week that I'd prefer Gretna - simply because it would have been a local derby and probably a bigger gate. However it's going to be Dundee United, but I'll settle for that. We'll go into the tie as underdogs so all the pressure will be on them and I think the players and the manager will prefer it like that. At 3-0 down after only twenty-minutes I thought it was going to be easy - all credit to Gretna, they fought back well and were very unlucky to lose. Although they eventually went down 4-3 they were in no way disgraced".

Added manager Iain Scott, "It was always going to be a tough tie regardless of who got through. But it's a home game and we're confident no matter what team we play at Palmerston. We'll go out there and give it our best shot. Dundee United will get a shock when they see our park for it looks the 'worse for wear' at the moment as we're forced to train on it".

Bill Goldie
Big-hearted Brian 17th January 2005
Although small in stature, Brian McLaughlin is big in heart as some of his recent displays have proven. No matter how big and strong the opposition the 'wee man' can lead them a merry dance. When he first arrived at Celtic Park as an eight stone 16-year-old, he was hailed as the new Jimmy Johnstone. Although Brian never reached the dizzy heights of 'Jinky' he endeared himself to the 'Parkhead Faithful' with his amazing ball skills and wing wizardry and was to spend eight happy years at Parkhead.

A Bellshill boy, born and bred, he was kicking a football about as soon as he could walk. He played for Corpus Christi Primary and St Patrick's High School and was 'Celtic Daft'. Said Brian "All through my schooldays I supported Celtic and my idol was Charlie Nicholas, so it was 'a dream come true' when Billy McNeill came along and signed me. At that time the star men were John Collins, Paul McStay and Charlie Nicholas himself, who had just re-joined the club. It was like something out of one of those schoolboy comics--wee Brian McLaughlin playing in the same team as his boyhood hero.
"Two matches I'll also remember during my years at Parkhead was my very first 'Old Firm' derby which was some experience, and the final of the Scottish Cup when we beat Airdrie and I still treasure that medal to this day. It was a sad day when I left Celtic for I was only two games away from my 100th appearance. Paul Sturrock signed me for Dundee United, but it was only for a couple of months to see the season out.

"I then moved south of the border to Wigan and played for two years in the English Second Division. I returned to Scotland after that and had a season at Ayr United before John Connolly offered me a contract at Queen of the South. The minute I walked through the dressing room door at Palmerston I was made welcome and I settled down right away. The only reason I moved to St Johnstone was the chance of 'full-time' football and the possibility of playing in the Premier League again. It was Billy Stark who talked me into moving to Perth--I knew Billy well from my days at Celtic but when he was sacked it just wasn't quite the same, so when 'Scotty' asked me to return to Queens I said 'yes'.

"They're a real homely club and there's such a good atmosphere in the dressing room. The fans have also treated me really well which is an added bonus. I'm nearly 31 now and I realise that I can't go on playing football for ever. I'd love to get involved in the coaching side of the game for I must plan ahead for the day I finally 'hang up my boots'. I've spoken to the manager about it and I hope we may be able to work something out in the future".

A real family man, Brian is father to four sons who all want to become footballers like their dad. There's Aidan (10), Connor (7), Ronan (4) and Dylan (2). Only seven more for a football team we joked with Brian. "No way" came his wife Pauline's voice from the kitchen.

There's an old saying that goes 'All the best things come in small packages". And that's certainly true of Brian McLaughlin.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 17th January 2005
Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus Partick went as follows:

First - Derek Lyle - 6.50
Second - Willie Gibson - 5.61
Third - Brian McColligan - 5.57

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Match reaction 15th January 2005
Despite taking an early lead through a Derek Lyle strike in only four minutes Queens left Firhill pointless courtesy of a 'fluke' and two own goals. In the end Thistle won comfortably and the only consolation for us was that Hamilton Accies, Ross County, St Mirren and St Johnstone all lost. An exasperated Iain Scott was left cursing his bad luck and blasted his own players, "Our defending today was a joke", he said, "We got off to the best possible start with Derek Lyle scoring after some good work by Willie Gibson but after that our players packed up, went home and decided to have the rest of the day off. It was as bad as that.

"All three goals were avoidable - our defence just switched off. The first was punched in the air by Colin Scott and they were first to the ball when it dropped down. The second was even worse. They literally 'lumped' a long free kick up the field from about fifty yards out, there was a misunderstanding between our 'keeper and David Craig and the ball went in off David's head. We had chances to equalise in the second half but we didn't take them. At the third goal a short corner was played to a player who shouldn't have been there, we gifted them the ball and they broke upfield six against two and the ball ended up in the net after a deflection off one of our own players. I'm not a happy man tonight infact I'm absolutely disgusted. There will be some hard training coming up this week".

Bill Goldie
Team News for Saturday 13th January 2005
Gary Wood is doubtful for Saturday's match at Firhill. He has a trapped nerve in his neck and is scheduled to visit a specialist on Tuesday. Gary is 'Mr Versatile' at Palmerston and already this season has played at right-back, left-back, centre-half and up front. David McNiven and Brian McLaughlin, who both missed the cup-tie at Montrose, return to the squad and recent signing, Steven Bell, is also included. The midfielder played for the whole 90 minutes in the 'friendly' at Motherwell on Monday and performed well.

Bill Goldie
Ton up time for Colin 12th January 2005
All being well it will be 'ton up' day for Colin Scott at Firhill on Saturday as the keeper gets set for his 100th appearance. Said Colin, "I've obviously enjoyed my four years at Palmerston but I had no idea I had my 100th game coming up. Queen of the South are a good 'family' club and, apart from the departure of John Connolly, the management team haven't changed much in recent years and that creates stability within a club. I've been fortunate to have been here during such a successful period--we won the Challenge Cup and also the Division Two Championship. I'll always remember clinching the title at Forfar that day and also the celebrations the following week at the Morton game. But if I had to single one match out, I'd opt for the one against Hamilton when I saved a crucial penalty and we went on to win and ensure promotion".





Bill Goldie
Motherwell 1, Q.O.S. 2 11th January 2005
Queens travelled to Motherwell yesterday for a training match and won 2-1, both our goals coming from Emilio Jaconelli. Both clubs fielded strong sides. The Motherwell line-up had all five subs from Saturday's cup-tie against Kilmarnock with Queens featuring Ritchie Barnard, Steve Bowey, Davie Bagan, Paul Burns, Willie Gibson, Steven Bell and Stephen Payne. Other were a trialist defender, members of the Under-19 squad and, of course, Emilio. Said manager, Iain Scott "It was great to have the opportunity of this game which helped greatly with our match fitness. It was keenly contested and all our lads played well and I think Terry Butcher was suitably impressed.

Bill Goldie
Off to Firhill 11th January 2005
Queens head for Firhill on Saturday for a crucial match against second bottom, Partick Thistle. And manager Iain Scott stressed, "We'll be going all out for victory but it's very important that we don't lose". Partick are currently seven points behind us in the table but 'Scotty' added, "I feel they are in a false position--they're a big club and a quality side and I think every manager in our league feels they will come away strongly now they've got their new management team on board.

"Dick Campbell will be a hard taskmaster and will certainly 'crack the whip'. I know Dick well from his time at Brechin and he won't stand any nonsense. He's reported as saying, 'Saturday's game against Queen of the South is more important to us than the cup-tie with Hearts' and I believe he's speaking the truth. He's got Jimmy Bone as his number two and nobody knows the teams and players in Division One better than Jimmy after his long spell at Ross County.

"We've lost our last three league games and we let ourselves down against Airdrie and Hamilton. We should have taken at least a point from both those matches. But we're still playing with confidence and I feel all we need is a bit more luck in front of goal. We've already beaten Partick twice this season, although I must admit we were a bit fortunate in both games. They've had a good run of late, unbeaten in their last two league games and they held Hearts to a draw in the cup at the weekend. It will be another tough encounter, but they're all tough in this league".

*We have been informed by Partick Thistle that Queens' supporters will be in a different stand on Saturday. Their secretary, Alan Dick said, "The Queens' fans will be in the North Stand, the one to the left of the Main Stand. Admission will be £13.00 with £7.00 concessions".

Bill Goldie
Match postponed again 11th January 2005
The Gretna v Dundee United cup-tie was called off again at 3.00 p.m. this afternoon. It has now been re-scheduled for Monday night.

Bill Goldie
Cup Draw--Q.O.S. v Gretna or Dundee United 10th January 2005
Chairman. Davie Rae described the draw as "exciting" and added "It's at home and whether it be Gretna or Dundee United I'm sure it will be a 'crowd puller'. OK, it could have been better but on the other hand it might have been a lot worse. Whoever we play it's winable, particularly at home, and I reckon we've a reasonable chance of earning a place in the next round. I'm certainly not despondent--in fact I'm really looking forward to it.

"If it's Dundee United I'd be fairly confident. We ran both Hibs and Motherwell close in cup games last season and the year before that took Aberdeen to a replay and should actually have won the first match at Palmerston. But if I had a choice I'd take Gretna! It would mean a 'local derby' and would probably fill Palmerston. They have a lot of top class players and it would certainly generate plenty of media attention".

The news was broken to manager, Iain Scott at training and his initial response, "Gretna or Dundee United, I had a feeling it would come out something like that. I've no particular preference, but at least it's a home tie. I'll wait and see who wins before commenting further".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 10th January 2005
Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus Hamilton went as follows:

First - Willie Gibson - 7.90
Second - Brian McColligan - 6.93
Third - Derek Lyle - 6.84

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Wasa, come home 10th January 2005
After making the long trip north to Montrose at the weekend, assistant manager Warren Pearson received an SOS to come home ASP as his new house in Haydon Bridge was flooded out. 'Wasa' had to make a hasty return but Brian Reid was on hand to step into the breach.

Bill Goldie
Glory goal 10th January 2005
Willie Gibson was still basking in the glory of his 'wonder goal' as he posed for the local press at Palmerston this morning. Said Willie, "It's my first goal for Queens but I hope it's the first of many. The boss has been ranting on at Paul Burns and myself for not scoring as many goals as we should, and he's right". But the Southerness lad was 'brought back to earth' quickly as the manager shouted him away to help load the minibus for the Under-19 league match at Motherwell tonight.

P.S. Be sure to buy the 'Standard' this week to see 'Willie' and his brilliant best.

Bill Goldie
Goal action 8th January 2005
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the two goals scored today in Montrose by Derek Lyle and Willie Gibson. Click on the links below but remember that the clips are 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.

Derek Lyle opens the scoring - GOAL ACTION

Willie's first goal for Queens - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 8th January 2005
Willie Gibson scored his first ever goal for Queens at Montrose this afternoon and the blonde bombshell's spectacular volley five minutes into the second half could prove financially rewarding for the club when the draw for the fourth round is made on Monday. An extra bonus for Willie - he was voted Man of the match. It was a battling by Queens after Derek Lyle had fired them into the lead three minutes before the interval, their heads could easily have gone down when the homesters were awarded a dubious penalty on the stroke of half time which saw them level the score. Late withdrawals by David McNiven and Brian McLaughlin came as a blow but Jim Thomson was there at the heart of the defence for his 200th appearance.

Iain Scott was a happy man but a bit relieved at the final whistle. He commented, "The lads showed a lot of character out there today after that controversial penalty decision which lead to their goal, they came out fighting in the second half and Willie's goal was a tremendous strike. The conditions were far from ideal for football and Montrose are not a bad team who fought hard. I'm just glad we won though and here's hoping now for a good draw in the next round."

Said goal hero Willie Gibson "I don't score many goals but I dedicate this one to two of my team mates, my pal Stuart Hill, who was making his debut in the cup today and Jim Thomson who was making his 200th appearance. I've to sit beside Jim all the home in the bus tonight and he would have been a pain in the butt if we hadn't won. But seriously, I'm really thrilled, I caught Eric Paton's cross perfectly and it looked good from the second it left my boot."

Another relieved man was Chairman Davie Rae who admitted, "That was a very long ninety minutes and to say I was glad to hear the final whistle is an understatement. It was a competitive match and Montrose were quick and sharp but I feel we just deserved our victory. I only hope we're lucky when the draw for the next round is made on Monday night."

Bill Goldie
Montrose weather watch 8th January 2005
At 10.15am Saturday:

All water has now drained from the park making it playable. It is now dry and there is a strong wind but barring heavy rain between now and kick-off the match should go ahead as scheduled. Again though please drive carefully.

Bill Goldie
Montrose weather watch 8th January 2005
At 9am Saturday:

Heavy rain during the night left the park under water at 7am but being close to the sea the water has now almost drained away and officials are hopeful the game will go ahead. There is no referee's inspection planned but beware high winds - please drive carefully.

Bill Goldie
Bad news 7th January 2005
Bad news for Queens tonight on the eve of their Scottish Cup tie with Montrose. David McNiven is down with the flu and is out and Brian McLaughlin will also be missing owing to a family bereavement. Steven Bell has an ankle injury and will not be risked.

Please note that admission to all parts of the ground will be £10 with £5 for senior citizens and juveniles.

There will be another 'weather watch' tomorrow morning.

Bill Goldie
Countdown to the Cup--4 7th January 2005
As all of us at Palmerston know, tomorrow's cup tie at Montrose is one of the most important games of the season for our club. It's also a very special day for Queens' stalwart, Jim Thomson who is due to make his 200th appearance. Said Jim, "It's certainly a game I'd like to win, for I want to be able to look back on my 200th game with pride. All the players fully realise this is a massive match for Queen of the South and we desperately need the right result. It's our last chance this season to get a big gate which the club requires to 'balance their books' for the year. But we have to beat Montrose first.
"It's always difficult playing a side from a lower division as we found to our cost against Albion Rovers in the C.I.S. Cup. Montrose are not a bad side and they only lost 3-2 to Gretna a week ago. To them this match will be their 'Cup Final' and they'll be out there giving it their all. I've only played a couple of times at Links Park and that was when I was with Clyde and Stenhousemuir. I remember it as a tidy wee park with a slight slope, but it could be different now. I actually know the area quite well, for I stayed for a while at the Links Hotel, just next to the ground, when I worked up there a few years ago. However, tomorrow will be my first visit as a Queens' player.

"It's quite an honour for me to don the Queen of the South shirt for the 200th time, so that's another reason I'm so keen to make it 'a game to remember'. How about Jim Thomson heading home the winning goal in the final minute. But, no! I don't want it to be just as tight as that!

"I've been asked on numerous occasions, 'What games do I remember most?' Well, there's actually three! Beating Brechin City 2-0 to win the Challenge Cup at Broadwood two seasons ago, also the Challenge Cup final at Motherwell even though we lost, 1-0. But, the most memorable of all was winning at Forfar in 2002 to clinch the Second Division title. I'll never forget that as long as I live. Let's face it, we only needed to win five games to lift the Challenge Cup but it took 35 matches before we won the League Championship.

"Dumfries is my home now and the fans have been great during my time at Palmerston. I was delighted to sign a two year extension to my contract a few weeks ago which will make me a Queens' player through till May 2007--that's as long as Chelsea don't come after me of course. I'll be nearly 36 by then, so we'll just have to wait and see after that. However, I'd still love to be involved with the club in some capacity, whether it be playing or coaching".

Bill Goldie
Montrose weather watch 6th January 2005
At 12 noon Friday:

Despite heavy rain overnight it is now dry but with high winds. Park perfectly playable at present.

Bill Goldie
Countdown to the Cup--3 6th January 2005
It's manager Iain Scott's turn to speak his mind in 'Countdown to the Cup' today, and he makes no secret of the fact that the cup-tie at Montrose is foremost in his mind. Said 'Scotty', "This match means so much to the club financially. It's going to be a tough one and we won't be taking it lightly. We're making the best possible preparations, travelling up on the Friday and staying overnight. This will give the players maximum relaxation, for we want to ensure their minds are fully focused on the task in hand.
"I was speaking to a couple of Gretna players and they freely admitted they were a bit lucky to come away from Montrose with three points last week and I, myself, rate Gretna First Division standard with the quality of players they have at their disposal. We've lost our last three league games which is very disappointing, so I'll probably be making a couple of changes for the cup match for we need to win this one to get back in the groove again. A few weeks ago our defence was quite solid but in these last three games we've conceded eight goals which is a matter of concern. We think we know the reason and we're addressing the problem. Personally, I feel we've been a bit open at the back, so we must tighten up.

"We've more or less a full squad for Saturday although Steven Bell has suffered a minor 'knock' in training. It's not too serious but I think he'll miss the cup game. But we want him available very soon--he's here to play for us on a regular basis not to be just part of the pool.

Brian Reid is progressing well after his knee operation. He's already on the exercise bike and, hopefully, will be 'running' by next week and playing in three weeks. He's been badly missed and we want him back in action as soon as possible.

"Now the January 'window' has opened I'm hoping to add at least two new players before the end of the month. We're looking at a left-sided defender and negotiating for a striker, but that's all I'm saying at the moment".

Tomorrow on 'Countdown to the Cup' we feature Jim Thomson, who is set to make his 200th appearance for Queens on Saturday.

Bill Goldie
Mistaken identity 6th January 2005
Despite several 'spottings' of John Connolly at the Hamilton match it has obviously been a case of 'mistaken identity'. Emphasised a puzzled J.C. "I was nowhere near Palmerston on that day. If I had been I would most certainly have popped in after the game to say 'hello' and wish a 'Happy New Year' to all the folk I know there".

Bill Goldie
Countdown to the Cup--2 5th January 2005
Today, Montrose manager Henry Hall is our guest contributor. An experienced and well-respected footballer, he turned out for Stirling Albion, St Johnstone, Dundee United and Forfar during an illustrious career which spanned many years, and during his spell at St Johnstone played in Europe in the same side as John Connolly who he describes as "the best player I've played alongside". Henry is now in his second season at Montrose and says he's "really looking forward" to the cup clash with Queens.

www.montrosefc.co.uk
He recalls "As a player with Forfar, one of my best cup memories was against Queen of the South. It was back in the League Cup in 1977 when Queens were in a higher league than us and favourites to win. In the first leg at Palmerston they led, 3-1, but Alex Rae hit two late goals to complete a 'hat-trick' and we went back up the road with a draw. In the second leg, Station Park was packed and we won 1-0 to qualify to meet Rangers in the semi-finals. In our team that night was Archie Knox who went on to spend several years as a coach at Ibrox.

"A repeat of that performance would do us nicely on Saturday but I know it's not going to be easy. I watched Queens in their recent match at Falkirk, and although they lost, they played well and are a very good side. They have a lot of talented players and I was particularly impressed with Steve Bowey with his penetrating runs, Eric Paton and also the two young wingers, Paul Burns and Willie Gibson.

"When John Connolly took over as manager a few years ago he 'worked wonders' at Palmerston. He won the Second Division Championship, the Challenge Cup and turned Queens into a force to be feared. And I must also add that Iain Scott and his management team are continuing the good work. They are now in their third season in Division One and in the past two years have finished up in the top half of the table.

"They have brought in the right players, have a good team spirit and are a side who obviously 'play for each other'. Queens have proved that good part-time players can compete with full-time players and they should be proud of their record. They have now set a 'benchmark' that all clubs in the lower leagues should try and emulate. What they have achieved in recent years is nothing short of brilliant.

"They will go into the tie as favourites but we have the home advantage. There's always a few 'shocks' in the Cup, so I'm hoping ours will be one of them".

Tomorrow on 'Countdown to the Cup' we feature our own manager, Iain Scott.

Bill Goldie
Countdown to the Cup--1 4th January 2005
We commence our 'Countdown to the Cup' tonight with skipper, Steve Bowey, giving his views on Saturday's forthcoming match at Montrose. Said 'Bowser', "It's a big game for all of us--the club, the fans and also the players themselves. After our defeat by Albion Rovers in the C.I.S. Cup it's 'payback time'. We 'took our foot off the pedal' that night, paid the penalty, and we only had ourselves to blame. So we must concentrate and make sure there's no mistake this time around.
"This game is a potential 'banana skin' for us. Montrose are the underdogs with nothing to lose so we must guard against complacency and, for the sake of Queen of the South, it's imperative we get a result. If we can win through there's the incentive of a big team in the next round which would prove financially rewarding for our club. Even a decent home draw against lesser opposition and a chance of a quarter-final place would do us fine. However, come 5 p.m. on Saturday evening I sincerely hope we're in the draw for the 4th round.

"Links Park will be new ground for me--I've played at most of the parks in Scotland now, but never at Montrose. One good thing, we can forget the stress of the league for a week and concentrate fully on the cup-tie. We've lost our last three games and we're all very disappointed, and in the space of a week we've dropped from 4th to 7th place in the table. It certainly wasn't a happy festive season for us and after the Hamilton game there were some harsh words in the dressing room. The manager wasn't happy and he certainly let us know his feelings in no uncertain terms.

"But we're all ready for Saturday now. We're travelling north on the Friday and staying overnight which will act as a bonding session. We're leaving nothing to chance and preparing for this important match professionally, so there can be no excuses. I can only ask our fans to get behind us as they always do, and we'll do our very best to repay them with a win".

Tomorrow night on 'Countdown to the Cup' we feature Montrose manager, Henry Hall.

Note--Admission to all parts of Links Park on Saturday will be £10.00.


Bill Goldie
Player movements 3rd January 2005
Steven Bell (right) is now officially a Queen of the South player. The former Dundee United midfielder has signed a contract to the end of the season, not a loan deal as reported in a Sunday newspaper.

Two players however left the club today, full back Chris Scott who is believed to be signing for County Durham club Spennymoor United and striker Chris Armstrong who is supposedly going for a trial at Stockport County but is also being tracked by Exeter City.

Bill Goldie
Queens v Montrose 3rd January 2005
Queens head for Links Park on Saturday to take on Montrose. We will obviously start favourites against our Third Division opponents, but it's the Scottish Cup so anything can happen. Therefore, nothing must be taken for granted. But statistics are firmly in Queens' favour for, over the past 30 years we have met Montrose four times, and won through on every occasion.

Our most recent clash was in January, 2000, when we beat them 3-1 at Links Park. Scorers that afternoon were Warren Hawke, Ken Eadie and Charlie Adams, and the crowd--a meagre 497. Fifteen years before that, in January 1985, we again beat them 3-1 this time at Palmerston and our scorers that day were Tommy Nolan and Stewart Cochrane with an 'own goal' taking the tally to three.

In 1978, however, it took two games before we triumphed. We drew 2-2 at home and, although wee Jimmy Coughlin opened the scoring in the first minute, Montrose hit back to lead 2-1 and it took a last-minute header by Billy McLaren to force a draw. In the replay at Links Park we were in control from the start and strikes from Harry Hood, George Dickson and Tommy Bryce saw us win through by a 3-1 scoreline yet again. But our joy was to be short-lived, for in the next round we went down 3-0 to Dundee United at Tannadice.

The year previous, 1977, we again were drawn against each other at Palmerston and Queens won a closely contested tie, 3-2, with big 'Chopper' Dickson (2) and Ian Reid our marksmen. We then proceeded to beat Alloa, 2-1, at home to reach the quarter finals but crashed 5-1 to Celtic at Parkhead in front of a 27,000 crowd. Peter Dickson scored for us with Glavin (3), Craig and Dalglish netting for Celtic. Nevertheless, we've a sneaky feeling that Chairman, Davie Rae would settle for a run like that this season.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 3rd January 2005
Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus Hamilton went as follows:

First - Eric Paton - 7.52
Second - Jim Thomson - 6.38
Third - Steve Bowey - 6.31

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Goal action 2nd January 2005
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the goal scored by Eric Paton yesterday. 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.

Goal action - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 1st January 2005
At 2.45pm this afternoon with the rain pouring down, many Queens fans thought the game would be called off and two hours later the same fans wished it had been as they witnessed their team slip to their third defeat in a row. It was a sorry end to a dismal festive season for following the midweek defeat at Airdrie Queens went down 2-1 to their 'bogey' side Hamilton Accies. It was their first home defeat since mid-October. The visitors went into a two goal lead early in the second half and although Queens pulled one back they just couldn't manage the elusive equaliser.

At the end of the game manager Iain Scott said he was "Bitterly disappointed", he added, "I thought we were the much better team, it was a difficult pitch to play on and we made individual errors which led to their goals. There were too many 'blind passes' and that's suicidal in conditions like today. At half-time we told the players to get their concentration back, then we go and lose a second goal within 3 minutes, we put them under a lot of pressure in the latter stages, Eric Paton did get a great goal and David Craig hit the post but it just wasn't good enough".

Skipper Steve Bowey was another frustrated man. Said Bowser, "It just wasn't our day! I had two reasonable chances which on a 'good day' might have gone in but all credit to Hamilton they held out well in the atrocious conditions. But we can't afford to be negative we must think forward and think positive now."

Alan Maitland was much happier. Said the Hamilton manager, "That was a massive three points for us today. We need to drag other teams down into the relegation mix and we did that with Queens this afternoon. It's never easy at Palmerston and in the second half it was like the 'Alamo' as they threw everything at us but our lads did well to hold out. Despite the dreadful conditions the fans saw a closely contested game with three exceptional goals."

____________________________
An interested spectator at the game was Queens former manager John Connolly, obviously down on a spying mission.

Bill Goldie
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
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