LATEST NEWS

For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

Team News

31st March 2005

Jim Thomson, who is suspended for two games, will miss Saturday's vital match against Partick Thistle at Palmerston. Alex Williams has been in bed with flu this week and is listed as 'doubtful'. David Craig and Stephen Payne both pulled out of training last night and it will be a late decision as to whether these two will be in the pool or not. Bill Goldie

Chris Carr signs

31st March 2005

Queens today signed 20-year-old Chris Carr until the end of the season with a view to a longer term contract if all goes well. The ex-Newcastle United and Sheffield Wednesday full-back has been training with the squad at Palmerston for several months and goes straight into the pool for Saturday's game. Bill Goldie

New signing

Dick in positive mood

31st March 2005

Partick Thistle manager Dick Campbell insists he'll be bringing his side to Palmerston on Saturday in a positive frame of mind. Said Dick, "We've got to win games now--draws are no good to us. I felt we played quite well in our last two games, we were solid enough in defence but not scoring goals. And if you don't score goals you don't win games, but to be fair we haven't exactly had the 'rub of the green' lately. I don't mind whether the winning goal comes in the first minute or the last minute. As long as you get three points, it's the end result that's all important. Simple as that! "Football can be a funny game at times but I've always maintained 'it's how a team plays itself that matters most'. Even at Brechin when we were up against Celtic or Rangers in the cup I used to stress to my players 'It's how you play that matters'. You 'reap what you sow' in this game. "We all know we must beat Queens on Saturday. We're second bottom of the table so there's 'no hiding place' now. I've got a lot of respect for Queen of the South and I know quite a few of their players from my Glebe Park days. I'm particularly friendly with Brian Reid who I know from my time at Dunfermline. He's a great lad, I've a lot of time for Brian and we still speak on the phone from time to time. Obviously Jim Thomson will be missing on Saturday and I must admit I'm pleased at that for he's such an influential player in defence. "What Queens have achieved in the past five years is truly amazing and they deserve a 'pat on the back'. John Connolly started the upward trend--I know John very well and he's a great guy. Now Iain Scott has 'taken over the reins', 'Scotty's' a nice lad too and as a young manager has done well in such a competitive league. "I'm looking forward to the trip to Palmerston, but they're still 18 points to play for and we'll be fighting hard for every one of them". Bill Goldie

Beware training sessions

31st March 2005

Training sessions at the club are fast becoming a dangerous place for Queens' backroom boys. Last week physio Kenny Crichton dislocated his thumb and this week our assistant manager Warren Pearson fell at training and shattered two fingers. They're now being held together by pins and screws and his hand is in a special framework. Bill Goldie

Thistle at Palmerston

29th March 2005

On Saturday Queens meet Partick Thistle at Palmerston and a victory would almost certainly ensure a First Division place for us next season. It would put us 11 points clear of the Firhill side with only five matches remaining but at the same time would push Thistle another step closer to the drop. While a draw wouldn't be a bad result for Queens, manager Iain Scott doesn't see it that way. Said 'Scotty', I fully realise that a draw would be acceptable in the circumstances, but that's not what I'm after. Our target now is third place, so we'll be going all out for a victory. I reckon if we could pick up 12 points from our last six games, we wouldn't be too far away from achieving that target. However, it's a 'must win' match for Thistle and Dick Campbell will be well aware of that. They're fighting for survival so it's not going to be an easy one. "We had a good training session at Palmerston on Friday and all the lads worked hard. We trained again yesterday at Parkhead, not Celtic Park I hasten to add, the one at Greenbrae Loaning, and we'll be back training as usual tomorrow night. Once before we missed a Saturday and our results suffered, so we must ensure that doesn't happen again. "Jim Thomson's suspended for two games and will be a big 'miss' on Saturday for he's had an excellent season to date. However, we have options on a replacement and we'll decide on the day who'll take his place. Brian Reid has a slight groin strain at the moment so we're 'nursing' him along and I'm confident he'll play. He too has been immense this season and if it hadn't been for a two month spell out injured during November and December, I'm sure we would be higher up the table than we are at present. Just look at our 'goals against' column in the league since his return and you'll see what I mean.

"Brian reads the game well and is so difficult to play against. He's tall, experienced and has played at the highest level. He's respected both on and off the park and all the young lads look up to him in more ways than one. He's like a 'daddy' or the 'grandfather' so to speak. "David McNiven has now resumed training following his road accident but Alex Williams has had the flu and is 'doubtful' for the weekend. Derek Lyle and Colin Scott are carrying slight injuries at present. Del has a niggling pain in his groin, similar to what 'Bowser' had at the end of last season, while Colin has a swelling behind his knee. Both require minor surgery, so we'll get them in for operations whenever we're mathematically 'safe'.

'Grandad Brian'

"Gary Wood has not yet put pen to paper but I'm not too worried. I was up at Berwick on Saturday watching them play Alloa and had a chat with him there. Gary wants to sign for us and I'm confident it will happen within the next few weeks". Regarding the forward and defender the manager is reported to have made verbal agreements with 'Scotty' added, "Again it's on hold until we're 100% certain of being in the First Division next season. Once we're sure the picture will be clearer then". Bill Goldie

Under-19s go down at Hamilton

27th March 2005

A late goal saw Queens Under-19s lose 3-2 at Hamilton in the League Cup on Friday despite staging a spirited fightback from two goals down. It was their first experience of the artificial surface at New Douglas Park and it took them a while to settle. It was very much a game of two halves--the home side having the best of the first 45 minutes but Queens dominating the second period. Hamilton were the better team in the early stages but never really threatened. They went ahead however in their first serious attack, but it was a disaster for Stuart Hill who deflected a header past his own keeper in the 20th minute. Hamilton continued to have the best of the game and increased their lead five minutes before the interval when McLeod, one of their first team players, broke through to score goal number two. In the second half Queens came out a different team and all the pressure was on the homesters. They deserved pulled one back on the hour mark when Craig Rudd latched on to a long through ball from Mark Whorlow and netted from just inside the box. By now Queens had made two substitutions, Mark Brown replacing Ian Ward at half time and Martin Cunliffe coming on for Ross Beattie. Cunliffe was soon in the thick of the action and combined with Allan Inglis to set up Brown for the equaliser in the 75th minute. Queens were well on top now and pressing forward for the winner when disaster struck again. With only two minutes remaining, a cross from the right was met by Hill and to his horror his header once more flew into his own net past his helpless keeper. It was a day young Stuart Hill will want to forget. However, to his credit, he was immense throughout the entire 90 minutes and the big lad will live to fight another day. Bill Goldie

Crowd at Accies

25th March 2005

Just to clarify the numbers of Queens support last Saturday at Hamilton we have been advised by Accies that 425 fans paid entry at the visiting turnstiles and that there were a few more fans in the main stand obviously supporting Queens. A very good turnout and again superb support for the South.

The climax to the season

24th March 2005

Thirty games gone and only six to go, and tonight on the 'Website' Iain Scott talks about those final crucial matches. Says 'Scotty', "There's still a long way to go and a lot of points to be won and lost. I set the lads a target back in July--it was 40 points, that's ten every quarter. We've achieved that, but it's been tighter than ever this time around so I had to amend that to 42 points for survival. However, without being complacent, I think we're 'safe' now so we're looking upwards and not 'over our shoulder' any more. We're eight points clear of Partick Thistle but only four behind St Mirren who are lying third. So that's my target now--a top three finish, and if we continue playing the way we are at the moment it's possible .Although we haven't scored so many goals this season, our defensive record is much better and to date we've only conceded 31 compared with 40 this time last year and 44 the season prior to that.

52 points achievable

"Looking at the six matches left we don't fear any of the teams. Apart from Falkirk we've already beaten them all. A week on Saturday we're at home to Partick Thistle and a victory there would put us 11 points ahead of them. They're a big club but really fighting for survival and under a lot of pressure, so it won't be easy. In their last five outings they've drawn two and lost three. We've beaten them twice and the game we lost was 'thrown away'. We scored first but our defending that day was the worst of the season and we deserved to lose. "We've also got Raith Rovers at home. They're already relegated and have nothing to lose, but in recent weeks have drawn 3-3 with Falkirk, drawn with Clyde and beaten St Mirren--the top three sides. So we can't take them lightly. We've beaten Raith three times this season and they've yet to win away from home, but nothing's certain in football. "In the second last match we meet St Johnstone at Palmerston and that's one we're all looking forward to. It would be great to win and finish above John Connolly's lads in the table. Honours are even between us in the league this season--a win apiece and a goal-less draw. They beat us 1-0 at home back in October but I felt we merited a draw in that one. "In an ideal world I'd love to win all three of those games but I wouldn't complain at seven points, two wins and a draw". Moving on to the away matches 'Scotty' conceded he'd settle for five points, a win and two draws. He added, "Our away form has been excellent those past couple of months. We've won two and drawn two and only lost one goal, the penalty at Hamilton on Saturday. So again we've nothing to fear. "In three games we haven't yet lost to St Mirren, winning one and drawing two. We should have won the match at Paisley but lost a two-goal lead and it finished 2-2. We enjoy playing at Love Street for it's an excellent playing surface up there and it's always good to 'put one over' on my old mate, Gus McPherson. St Mirren have drawn 14 times, more than any other club in the league. So don't be surprised if we share the points again. "We also face the long trip to Ross County. It's an overnight stay but it does act as a bonding session for the lads. All three clashes so far have been close. They've won two and we've beaten them once, but they've only been a single goal in every game. They've not got the best of home records but I think they're one of the top football playing sides in our league and they pass the ball about extremely well. "Our final battle of course is at Falkirk. By then they'll be champions and, hopefully, we'll be 'safe'. There's every chance they'll be getting presented with their trophy that day and I hear their new stand may be officially opened as well. So it should be a 'full house' and a right carnival atmosphere. I'm really looking forward to that one as well. "If my adding ups right, my prediction would give us a total of 52 points, and I'd be well pleased at that. But you never know in football". Bill Goldie

Thumbs down for Kenny

24th March 2005

It was a case of 'Physio heal thyself' for Kenny Crichton earlier this week when he dislocated his thumb during a practice session. Said Kenny, "The boys were a man short, so I said I'd go in goal, but I got caught with a full close-range volley from Emilio Jaconelli. I knew right away that my thumb was dislocated but I managed to 'put it back in' myself'. It was blooming painful though". Bill Goldie

New Queens book on the shelves

24th March 2005

The new book by local author Ian McCartney and published by Creedon publications will be available in the town this weekend. On Saturday you will be able to purchase it in the Loreburn Centre between 10.00am and 3.00pm and on Sunday in Matalan on the Lockerbie Road between 11.00am and 3.00pm.

New Queens website launched

23rd March 2005

A new Queens website has just been launched, it is run by Martin Buchan and you can visit it by clicking on www.freewebs.com/queenofthesouth

Terms agreed with two new players

22nd March 2005

Following the news that Brian McColligan had signed a one-year extension to his contract last night, manager Iain Scott announced this morning that "The nucleus of next season's squad is now in place so I'm now targeting new players to strengthen it". He added, "We've already agreed terms with a defender and a striker, but I'm not naming names at present. I'm happy at the way things are going, it's very encouraging". Bill Goldie

'Mr Nice Guy'

22nd March 2005

'Scotty' became 'Mr Nice Guy' today when he admitted that the players would get their Saturday off after all. He explained, "Originally I said they'd get the day off if we beat Hamilton, but although we didn't win we did get a draw and had it not been for a very debatable penalty we would have picked up all three points. That's me, I'm all heart! Although they'll have Saturday off we'll be having a full-day training session on Friday for me must keep our fitness levels up. "I couldn't be too hard on them, for I've studied the video several times and there's no way that was a penalty. Ritchie made a brilliant save and the ball was going out for a corner kick. Jim Thomson stumbled and Corcoran fell over Jim's legs. That's how I saw it. I spoke to the ref after the game and he conceded it was 'a bit soft'. He did say he noticed some jersey pulling going on but was going to be watching the highlights on 'Scotsport' on the Sunday to see if he called it right or wrong. Apart from that I actually thought the ref had a good game for it was very physical and he could well have sent two or three players off but he handled the situations well. "I don't envy referees for they are required to make split-second decisions. The week previous at Broadwood the ref there could well have given a penalty when Harty went down in the box. But he didn't, and we won the match. Some decisions go for you, and some go against you, however that's football. It's all 'swings and roundabouts' and they mostly all even out at the end of the season". Bill Goldie

Queens' striker in car crash

22nd March 2005

Queens' striker, David McNiven, was 'a very lucky young man' last night. On his way home to his house in Lancashire, following a training session at Palmerston, a momentary lapse of concentration saw his car spin out of control on the M6 just south of Carlisle. It crashed into the central reservation barrier then rebounded back across the road before coming to rest in the inside lane again. The accident took place at about 10.15 p.m and both lanes of the motorway was closed for two hours while wreckage was cleared. No other vechicle was involved.

Lucky lad!

Speaking from his home in Lytham this afternoon David said, "The police told me I was 'a very lucky young man'. Had the accident happened earlier in the day when the road was busy, I wouldn't be alive. I was in shock but my girlfriend and my mum and dad motored up to collect me. I was asked if I wanted to go to the Cumberland Infirmary but I said 'I was O.K.' But just to be sure I checked into hospital in Blackpool when I got home but was released this morning. I've got some bumps and bruises and a sore back, but obviously 'someone up there' was looking after me". Bill Goldie

'Colly' signs extension

21st March 2005

Queens added another valuable player to their squad for next season when midfielder, Brian McColligan, put pen to paper on a one year extension tonight. The ex-Celtic starlet and former Scotland schoolboy internationalist will now be at Palmerston until May of next year. The 24-year-old has been an important player this season and despite being small in stature is tenacious in the tackle. To date Brian has made over 70 first team appearances since joining from Clydebank in July, 2002. Said Brian himself, "I'm just pleased to get signed up for another season at last. I'm happy at Palmerston and never wanted to leave. I was a bit concerned about my future when Stuart Lovell was signed but I was assured there would always be a place for me as long as I was playing well. We've a good squad and competition for places is a good thing in football for it keeps everyone on their toes". Bill Goldie

Man of the Match

21st March 2005

The result from the man of the match voting from the game versus Hamilton on Saturday was as follows: First - Richie Barnard - 7.66 Second - David McNiven - 7.17 Third - Brian McColligan - 7.09 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-19s beat Gretna in League Cup

20th March 2005

A well-organised Queens' team opened their League Cup campaign with an impressive 2-0 victory over Gretna at Islecroft Stadium, Dalbeattie this afternoon. This avenged a recent league defeat by their local rivals and it was last week's 'hat-trick' man, Craig Rudd, who was again 'hero of the hour', netting both goals. Queens almost opened the scoring after only 10 minutes when Allan Inglis put Scott Robertson through, but the big striker's effort was cleared off the line. There were no goals from either of the two well-matched teams in the first half, but Queens made the all-important breakthrough 20 minutes into the second half when comeback kid, Martin Cunliffe, laid the ball off for Ian Ward to release Rudd. He looked up and hit a great lob from 25 yards out which finished in the back of the net. The same two players combined for goal number two which came only five minutes later. Ward picked up a loose ball in midfield and again fed Rudd who slotted home to put the issue beyond doubt. Queens were on top for the remainder of the match, but full credit to both teams for excellent entertainment. This coming week in the League Cup Queens are away to Hamilton Accies. Others in their section are: St Mirren, Queens Park, Albion Rovers, Clyde and Cowdenbeath. Bill Goldie

Goal action

19th March 2005

Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the goal from the match versus Hamilton 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. McNiven nets - GOAL ACTION

Match reaction

19th March 2005

A goal ten minutes from time denied Queens their first win at Hamilton in three years. An ideal start saw David McNiven score in the first minute but a penalty late on gave Colin Cramb the opportunity to net from the spot for the equaliser. Manager Iain Scott admitted he was a bit disappointed with the draw considering the great start. Said Scotty, "I felt it was really two points dropped for the luck certainly did not go for us at the penalty, Richie Barnard had made a fantastic save, Jim Thomson said he was turning away and the Hamilton player fell over his legs. We tried to pass the ball a bit this afternoon but later in the game we just went into our 'shell', however it's another point nearer safety but we're only four points away from third place so we're looking upwards more than over our shoulders". Commented scorer David McNiven, "I've been involved in the last two games and scored in them both so I'm naturally delighted at that, I'm also pleased at the way I'm playing, the team are also doing well at the moment and considering we were away from home a draw was acceptable. Nevertheless it was sad to lose the goal so late in the game". And Hamilton manager Alan Maitland added, "When the final whistle went and it ended all square I wasn't too happy. But when I heard the Partick Thistle score I felt a bit better. I'm now hoping that Queens will do us a favour and beat Partick in their next game". Look out for Scotsport tomorrow at the game today is their featured match. Bill Goldie

Plans progressing

19th March 2005

Planning permission for the construction of both new stands at Palmerston was submitted to the council on Friday. Bill Goldie

Hamilton bound

17th March 2005

Queens travel to Hamilton on Saturday in a confident mood following their 1-0 victory at Broadwood at the weekend and will be hoping for a good support with it being a 'local derby'. Manager, Iain Scott, is convinced that another win would more or less see them safe from relegation. Said 'Scotty', "We're every bit as good as Hamilton but we haven't yet managed to beat them this season so, as I said before the Clyde game 'We owe them one as well'. However, the matches between us have all been very close. We drew 1-1 then they beat us 2-1 at Palmerston and up there they only beat us with a last-minute goal. So we've nothing to fear! "They are a big physical side and have improved greatly since early season. During the January 'window' they brought in Mahouve, Hardy from St Johnstone and Paquito--all quality players. We were actually tracking Paquito ourselves a few months ago when we thought Eric Paton might be leaving, but Eric stayed so we didn't proceed any further. "I'm not going to get started again about the plastic pitch but it was interesting to note that Gus McPherson was also slagging it a bit this week. So it's gratifying to know that I'm not alone with my opinions. Even the Hamilton players themselves can't be too 'at home' on the artificial surface, for I notice they've lost eight of their home league games there this season. "Three point on Saturday would be a massive boost for us. It would take us up to the magical 42 point mark and would practically ensure our First Division standing yet again. But, having said that, a draw wouldn't be a disaster. We're defending well at the moment and we've had 'clean sheets' in our last three away matches. We beat Clyde at Broadwood last Saturday and that was only their third league defeat there this season, so we're full of confidence after that one. "The return of David McNiven was a tremendous boost for us. Now he's clear of his person problem and with the extra training at Blackpool, he's looking like a 'new player'. Young Stephen Payne also did well at Clyde and I was pleased with his contribution as well". Team News Three of our young players could well miss Saturday's match. Brian McColligan got a 'knock' in training last night, Paul Burns is still suffering from a 'dead leg' while Willie Gibson has a family bereavement. Jim Thomson has a two game suspension coming up after his latest 'booking' at Broadwood, but he is available for the Hamilton match. Bill Goldie

New book now available

16th March 2005

The long awaited new book, "The Queens - 1919-2004", has now been published and is available from the club shop at Palmerston for £15 from the 2nd April. If you can't wait then you can also purchase by mail order from the publishers. Send your cheque for £17.50 to cover the cost of the book and post/packing to Creedon Publications, 11 Catherinefield Industrial Estate, Dumfries, DG1 3PQ.

'90 Minutes'

16th March 2005

Following on from Iain Scott's appearance on the BBC Scotland Radio show last night the special guest on this Friday night's show is recent signing Stuart Lovell. The show is always worth a listen and gives decent coverage across all of the senior leagues so with the added Queen's interest you should give it a listen and tune in on 810 or 585 medium wave from 6.05pm to 7.30pm.

Keeper Ritchie signs an extension

15th March 2005

Goalkeeper, Ritchie Barnard, signed a one year extension to his present contract last night which will ensure his future at Palmerston through to May 2006. Said Ritchie, "I had a chat with the manager a couple of weeks ago, the terms were right, and I was delighted to sign on for another season. They're a great bunch of lads at Queen of the South. We all get on well together, both on and off the park, and when I first arrived at the club I was surprised at the quality of players we had in the side.

Signed up

"I now stay in Livingston and travel back and forward with Stephen Payne. I work for Morgan Stanley Bank in Cumbernauld, so Broadwood is practically on my doorstep. We picked up three valuable points there on Saturday so I feel we're almost safe from relegation now--but you can take nothing for granted in this league. I'd love to beat Hamilton on Saturday which would almost certainly secure our First Division place for another season. It would take a lot of pressure off us and the more relaxed you are the better you play. "It can be a bit frustrating being a goalkeeper at times, for there's only one position to play for. I had to wait patiently on the sidelines for quite a while and it was only when Colin Scott was injured that I managed to get a regular first-team place but I know once Colin's fully fit again he'll be out to get the jersey back. Despite competing for the goalie's job, Colin and I get on well together. We've our own different way of training but have a mutual respect for each other. However, I intend holding on to my place but I think it's healthy competition and that's good at any football club. "Since I took over I've only conceded two goals in five matches. I've had three 'clean sheets' and I want to keep it that way".

A safe pair of hands

Bill Goldie

Man of the Match

15th March 2005

Apologies for being a night late this week, however here is the 'man of the match' scoring from Saturday versus Clyde at Broadwood: First equal - Richie Barnard and Brian McColligan - 8.49 Third - David McNiven - 8.22 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 'hat-trick' for Rudd

13th March 2005

Following their heavy defeat at Stirling last week Queens' Under-19s came bouncing back this afternoon with a fighting 5-3 victory over Elgin City at a neutral venue, Perth. Man of the match was Craig Rudd who scored a second-half 'hat-trick' to halt a late fightback by the Highland side. Queens took the lead after only five minutes when Stuart Hill volleyed home following a Gareth Campbell free-kick and they made it 2-0 in 35 minutes when Rudd set up Ross Beattie whose 25-yard scorching drive was the goal-of-the-game. Only five minutes of the second half had elapsed when Rudd netted the first of his three goals but Elgin pulled one back shortly afterwards. On the hour mark Rudd scored his second after good work by Mark Whorlow to make it 4-1. However, all credit to Elgin who staged a courageous recovery and two quick strikes pulled them back to 4-3. But it was that man Rudd who put the issue beyond doubt when he connected with a Mark Brown cross to complete his 'hat-trick' and make the final scoreline, 5-3. Bill Goldie

Match reaction

12th March 2005

David McNiven hasn't had his sorrows to seek this season between family illness and his loss of form on the playing field. But today Iain Scott handed him his first league start since mid-November and the striker repaid it in full as his goal twenty minutes from time gave Queens their first victory over Clyde at Broadwood since season 1996/97. Clyde had beaten us in our last six meetings and the three points takes us a giant step away from the relegation zone. It was our first away win since we beat Raith Rovers 1-0 at Kirkcaldy back in January and against a side who haven't conceded a league goal in six out of the seven league games they have played since the turn of the year it was a massive result. Queens had two 'scares' near the end, firstly an Ian Harty 'goal' was disallowed then the same player was tackled badly in the penalty area but again the 'gods were with us' and the referee once more turned a 'blind eye' despite angry protests from the homesters. Said manager Iain Scott, "It was a good all round effort by everyone and I'm proud of every single player in the team. That was a win for them and they thoroughly deserved it - a first class performance.

"A win over Clyde was long overdue but we got the 'rub of the green' for a change and we scored the first goal which was so important. We could have scored a second for they had to come at us for a change and we almost caught them on the break a couple of times. They put us under a bit of pressure in the latter stages but we defended well and got our just reward. "To me the 'disallowed goal' was clearly a yard offside and referee also got the penalty claim right for it was a clean tackle by Gary Wood. But no doubt Billy Reid will have his own thoughts! "There has been a bit of doom and gloom from certain quarters lately but I always said that we were looking upwards not downwards and that's what we'll continue to do.

Happy tonight

"I was particularly pleased for David McNiven. He's been on the sidelines for quite a while now but played really well out there this afternoon and I was delighted that he got the winning goal. Three points away to Clyde is just magnificent". Said David McNiven himself, "I've been banging on the managers door for weeks now to 'give me a chance', he did today and I'm very happy to have played well and help the team get a valuable three points. To get the winning goal was an extra bonus but Derek Lyle laid it on perfectly for me". Another very happy man was chairman Davie Rae who said, "That's the best we've played for a long long time and the players all had belief in themselves today. The whole team played exceptionally well, it was a great result and we deserved it. Richie Barnard was superb in goal, Brian McColligan also had a splendid game after his two match suspension but David McNiven was fantastic and was my 'man of the match'. All that extra training at Blackpool must be doing him the power of good for he looked much fitter and stronger". On a slightly negative note, Jim Thomson picked up a booking today that we believe will take his disciplinary points tally above the threshold whereby he will receive a two match ban. It will probably come into force following the Hamilton match next Saturday but will be confirmed as soon as we are informed. Bill Goldie

Queens off to Broadwood

10th March 2005

Just how do you plan to take on a side who's beaten us in our last six meetings and who have conceded only a single league goal in the past two months? That's the big problem facing Iain Scott come Saturday. Said the Queens' manager, "Clyde are Clyde and we all know how they play the game. But they keep on grinding out results and have the best defensive record in the division with only 19 goals conceded to date. Nevertheless, we'll be going to Broadwood in a confident frame of mind--not despondent. At least we'll be competing on a decent surface for I feel that playing at Palmerston recently hasn't really helped us. "We had two good training sessions this week and on Wednesday night the atmosphere in the dressing room was higher than it's been for a while. I know it's going to be difficult but Clyde are there to be broken down and by now their heavy programme of midweek matches must be catching up on them. "Warren was up watching them play St Mirren in midweek while I took in the Airdrie v Hamilton match. I must say that Hamilton have really improved since I last saw them and it took a goal, 20 seconds from the end to beat them. And again, there were only one goal scored in both games--it's still so tight. "The results went for us, particularly with Hamilton losing. I feel now that St Mirren and Airdrie have reached the 42 point mark they are virtually safe from relegation but it still leaves four other sides apart from ourselves still in the 'mix'. However, I'm confident we can pick up the six points we require in our last eight games to make us safe as well". Team News On Saturday's selection 'Scotty' said, "Brian McColligan will return to the squad following a two match suspension and Colin Scott will also be available after getting back to full training this week. We've doubts on four other players, but I'm hoping at least three of them will make it. 'Bowser' has a painful cyst on his knee, young Paul Burns has a 'dead-leg', while Derek Lyle is still suffering from the abscess in his gum. My biggest worry, however, is Brian McLaughlin who's been in bed with flu all week and has missed both training sessions". Bill Goldie

Man of the Match

7th March 2005

Man of the match scoring from Saturday versus Airdrie United went as follows: First - Jim Thomson - 6.57 Second - Richie Barnard - 6.53 Third - Emilio Jaconelli - 6.17 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 crash at Stirling

6th March 2005

Queens U19's had probably their worst result of the season when they crashed 5-1 away to Stirling Albion this afternoon. The home side went into a two goal lead before Craig Rudd pulled one back for Queens following a goalmouth scramble. Albion made it 3-1 before half time - all three of their goals having come from set pieces. To make matters worse for Queens Scott Robertson was sent off in the second half and two late counters completed a nap hand for Albion. Bill Goldie

Match reaction

5th March 2005

Following a depressing game of football the Palmerston playing surface came in for some criticism at the final whistle, with both Hamilton and Ross County winning Queens are gradually being sucked deeper into the relegation zone and another 0-0 scoreline did little to brighten the spirits of the home fans. Said Queens manager Iain Scott, "It was a very poor game of football but with the wind and the condition of the park it's all you can expect. Infact it's getting to the stage that our players are frightened to pass the ball. Nevertheless had their 'keeper not saved that great shot by Jim Thomson, three points would have been ours but I'll settle for the single point there is always a lot of draws in our league so that just adds to the tally. The lads admitted they felt a bit tired and leg weary after the Clyde match - it was such an energy sapping game. Derek Lyle had just recovered from an abscess in his gum and he too wasn't his lively self. But looking on the brighter side we're still only three points away from fourth place". Added Airdrie United boss man Sandy Stewart, "Considering the conditions I don't think either side deserved to win so probably a draw was a fair result. We know we can play a lot better than that but the park didn't lend itself to good football but I'll settle for a point away from home". Queens' sponsors 'Man of the Match', Jim Thomson also blamed the park for the poor quality of play said Jim, "It was very difficult to play football out there today however I thought my shot in the second half was going in. It would have been great if it had for it would have been the winner". Bill Goldie

Man of the Match

4th March 2005

Man of the match scoring from Wednesday versus Clyde went as follows: First - Richie Barnard - 6.71 Second - Emilio Jaconelli - 6.69 Third - Eric Paton - 6.53 All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.

Queens v Airdrie United

3rd March 2005

Queens face one of their most crucial matches of the season when they meet Airdrie United at Palmerston on Saturday and the midweek defeat by Clyde makes three points even more necessary. We've only one victory 'under our belts' since the turn of the year but on this occasion we're playing a team we've already beaten thrice this season and a team who enjoy playing attacking football rather than one that relies on a defensive wall. Said manager Iain Scott, "It's a big game for us and losing to Clyde makes it all the more important that we get a win, particularly with two very difficult away matches coming up next. However, we've a good record against Airdrie this season but they've improved a lot lately and the confidence of the whole squad appears to have got better. Owen Coyle and the two young lads up front, McLaren and Gow, are a real danger but they do play a totally different game from Clyde which should suit us better. "Every side in our league have their own particular style of play and we're all seeking that perfect blend between defence and attack. Clyde play a very defensive type of game but they get results and sit second top of the table, so I can't knock them for that. We knew what to expect on Wednesday night and if we had scored first it might all have been different. I can't fault the performance or the effort but we never got the breaks at the right times. "Derek Lyle was out with a painful abcess on his gum and was sorely missed, for it's been Del that's been doing most of the scoring in recent games. He's due a visit to the dentists, but we won't know until Saturday whether he'll be fit or not". Bill Goldie

Match reaction

2nd March 2005

Queens again fell foul of the Clyde hoodoo. Up against a solid wall of yellow they just couldn't penetrate the solid rearguard. That's six times in a row we've lost to Clyde and it now makes Saturday's home game against Airdrie even more vital. Steve Bowey passed a late fitness test and was in his usual midfield role but Derek Lyle, who was suffering from an abscess in his gum was sadly missed. Manager Iain Scott praised his players after the match. Said 'Scotty', "We were the better side throughout but credit to Clyde, they did what they do so well, sit back and make it so difficult for their opponents to score. I thought we were a bit unlucky at the goal but our 'keeper Richie Barnard did pull off one tremendous save. I have no problem with the performance or effort of our players and I thought Emilio Jaconelli was outstanding considering he's not been playing much this season. We just didn't get the breaks on the night and we needed them for Clyde are a very difficult side to play against". Bill Goldie

Q.O.S. v Clyde

1st March 2005

Queens tackle a Clyde side at Palmerston tomorrow night who will still be smarting from their 5-0 cup defeat by Celtic on Sunday. Although Clyde have been somewhat of a 'bogey team' for us over the past year, Queens will still go into the match in a confident frame of mind following a 1-1 draw with league leaders, Falkirk, last time out. Apart from some early season fixtures we have had a good home record in the league in the last four months, losing only to Hamilton and conceding just three goals. Said manager, Iain Scott, "We've had five 'clean sheets' in our last seven home league matches, so defensively we're O.K., but I'd like to see more goals going in at the other end. I've studied a video of the Clyde/Celtic cup-tie and they did well in the first half and despite losing five goals I still consider them a match for any club in our league. They're strong in defence and build their game round that. They defend well, hit on the break and play 'route-one' football. They're a good side, very difficult to beat as their second place league position proves. But, as I've said many times before 'We fear no-one on our own ground'. "We had two lively training sessions on Saturday and with us having more-or-less a full squad now, the competition for places is very intense. There were a few heated exchanges, but that's not bad, for it shows just how keen the lads are to be playing. It's all about being competitive. "There's no easy games in this division and I'm sure they're more draws than in any other league in Britain. Any point gained is a good point and three points from a win is a real bonus. We've still got a bit of a 'cushion' between ourselves and Hamilton and Partick, but it's not a big one. However we're looking upwards, not downwards, for that's negative thinking. "We've two home games in three days coming up and to win both of them would be brilliant. That would give us six valuable points and could well push us up into third place. It would put us on the 41 point mark, only one short of the 42 points target I've set the players. I still think that would be sufficient to ensure First Division survival for if we can't manage seven points from our last ten games we don't deserve to be in this league next season". Bill Goldie

Big doubt on Bowser

28th February 2005

Skipper, Steve Bowey, is the only major doubt for Wednesday night's match against Clyde at Palmerston. 'Bowser' missed Monday night's training session, confined to bed with a bad bout of flu, and is most unlikely to feature. Keeper, Colin Scott however, was back in training again after a calf injury and will be available for selection. Kick-off is 7.45 p.m. Bill Goldie

Queens and Saints draw

27th February 2005

Queens' Under-19's fought out a creditable 2-2 draw with league leaders, St Johnstone at the Keswick Centre this afternoon. The visitors went ahead in 15 minutes, shooting home following a corner. Queens equalised on the half hour mark after a defence-splitting pass by Scott Robertson found Gareth Campbell who outpaced his markers only to be unceremoniously brought down in the box. However, the unruffled Campbell dragged himself to his feet and slotted home the resultant spot-kick. In the second half Queens were well on top and received just reward when man-of-the match Campbell netted his second from 12 yards out. The home side appeared to be in control but Saints were awarded a dubious penalty from which they equalised to earn themselves a share of the points. But it was an entertaining match with lots of good end-to-end football and the bumpy surface only added to the excitement. Queens back three of Stuart Cluckie, Stuart Hill and Richie Maxwell were outstanding against the St Johnstone forwards, two of which were Scotland Under-19 internationals. Following the lack of disipline shown in the recent Gretna encounter, the conduct of the young Queens' squad today was exemplary and they have obviously learnt their lesson.

Bill Goldie Photograph by Margaret Elliot

Q.O.S. v Clyde

27th February 2005

Note the Time: The kick-off for the Queens v Clyde game on Wednesday night will be 7.45 p.m. and not 7.30 p.m. as stated in some Sunday newspapers. Bill Goldie

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