Embrace the Cold – Arbroath FC – 09/12/23
Background
The Christmas season is well and truly upon us. There is somewhat of a magical feeling surrounding Scottish football at this time of year. Games come thick and fast, momentum can be gained or slowed, and teams can start to see the improvements that are needed come January. However, snow has fallen across the country over the last couple weeks, and while it is always an aesthetic visual, it causes chaos in the Scottish football world. Postponements swept the nation, with the vast majority of fixtures feeling the brunt of the wintery conditions. I was due to head up to Fife last weekend to watch East Fife take on SPFL new boys The Spartans, but alas it was not to be. But, I’m hoping the weather plays nice this time as I’m hoping to visit one of the most iconic grounds in the country…
Following a meeting in the George Hotel, Arbroath FC were born in 1878. The club started off humbly, only playing friendlies and competing in local competitions. During this time, they did amass a large supporter base in the town and further Angus region – something that would stick with them for years to come. It didn’t take long for Arbroath to stick their name on the footballing map. To this day, they hold the world record for the largest win in senior football history. On the 12th of September 1885, they knocked thirty-six goals past Bon Accord in a Scottish Cup tie. Amazingly, it is said that a further 5 to 7 goals were also chalked off for offside.
It wouldn’t be until 1921 when Arbroath would move into a national league system. They became a full-time professional outfit, joining the Scottish Football League. Since then, The Red Lichties haven’t looked back. They have remained a steady ship in the Scottish football pyramid, taking their place in all four divisions at some point in the last 100 years. The club also reached the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup in 1947, where they lost 2-0 to Aberdeen in front of 22,000 at Dens Park.
In more modern times, Arbroath’s successes have come in the form of several promotions and league titles between the three tiers below the Scottish Premiership. League 2 titles were achieved in 2011 and 2017 as well as a League 1 title won in 2019. However, it would be a silver medal placing that would capture the minds of world football…
In 2022, Arbroath came mightily close to promotion to the Premiership. The club almost played a season beyond their wildest dreams. Sitting just a point behind league leaders Kilmarnock, Arbroath travelled to Rugby Park to face the title favourites. If The Red Lichtiesavoided defeat or won, they would take the championship to the final round of fixtures. However, a loss would see Killie lift the title right there and then. It was a huge game that was watched by tens of thousands of people across the country. Unbelievably, Arbroath took the lead after a counter attack was awkwardly slotted home by James Craigen. The away side held on until 12 minutes of regular time remaining, when Ash Taylor scored for the hosts. However, it was Blair Alston’s strike on the 90-minute mark that would break Arbroath hearts and secure the title for the Ayrshire side. Unfortunately for Arbroath, the play-offs would not go to plan either. Two successive draws against Inverness Caledonian Thistle took the tie to penalties, which the Highland side win 5-3. A fairytale story, but no happy ending.
However, the tale goes on. Arbroath are still plying their trade in the cinch Championship and are still holding their own in Scotland’s second tier as a part-time side. Currently, they sit in the relegation play-off place, 4 points ahead of today’s visitors Greenock Morton. It is a huge game for both sides and could prove to be a bit of a relegation six-pointer. Personally, I’m a bit gutted to have only chosen now to visit Arbroath, with the legendary manager Dick Campbell handing in his resignation just 2 weeks ago. It would have been class to have seen the bunnet in person, but I’m sure the big man will be wishing nothing but the best for the club he took so close to the top table of Scottish football. Today’s encounter is new boss Jim McIntyre’s first game in charge. Lets hope it’s a cracker.
Facilities
Gayfield Park has been the home to Arbroath FC for over 150 years – having acquired the land of the former rubbish tip in 1880. Since then, except for a slight pitch movement 60 yards to allow for greater room for spectators it has been largely unchanged. I’d been told many amazing things about Gayfield and how it is as a football venue. It is the closest professional ground to the sea – often creating a whirlwind of gust and rain. I’d been advised to wrap up warm, given how cold it can get inside the arena. They were not wrong.
However, Gayfield is certainly one of the best grounds I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Two-thirds of the ground consists of a large concrete bowl-like terracing, with shelters behind both goals and on the far touchline. The terracing has largely been untouched from the olden days, leaving a wonderfully rustic feeling to the ground. The Gayfield Stand (Coelbrew Stand for sponsorship reasons), sits behind the dugouts. Having only opened in 2002, it looks pretty good as a contrast to the concrete jungle in its periphery.
Despite the more old-fashioned structures pitchside, the rest of the facilities at Gayfield represent a club who looking to upgrade to the modern times. From the electronic ticket scanners to the good-looking club store and ticket office, Gayfield is a class mix of old and new. I absolutely love it. Just wish their card machines workedso I could try some of the famous pies. Next time. 4.5/5.
Atmosphere
Just over 1,200 people were in attendance for this match today, with the vast majority packed under the shelters behind the goals and opposite the main stand. For that reason it did feel pretty busy, and definitely helped deal with the freezing cold wind and rain coming from the North Sea. Despite the poor weather, most supporters were in good spirits, with drums and chants coming from both ends of the stadium.
It was also great to see around 100 or so Morton supporters make their way to Angus. They consistently had their voices heard throughout the ninety minutes. I always find it hilarious seeing wee guys give it the big one in the away end when their team score – a couple of their younger supporters certainly provided ample entertainment for me as a neutral.
Overall, despite the pretty poor weather conditions, I fair enjoyed the atmosphere provided by both sets of supporters. 3/5.
Quality of the Match
With the rain coming down and the wind howling around the park, a good quality game of football was never on the cards. As much as Arbroath did try to play a passing game in the first half, both sides quickly realised that a classic game of ‘hoofball’ was the only real game-plan for the afternoon.
The first chance of the match fell to Arbroath defender Aaron Steele. Some good work by Scott Stewart down the right-hand side resulted in a corner, which was swung in to the far side of the box. Unmarked, Steele could only glance his header wide and perhaps should have hit the target at very least.
Jay Bird would be next to go close for the Red Lichties. The striker powered through the Morton defence and found himself through on goal, but from a very slight angle, the former MK Dons man could only blast his strike high and wide.
Around a minute later, Arbroath paid the price. A misplaced pass in the middle of the park allowed a ball to be played through for Morton’s Lewis McGrattan. One-on-one with Derek Gaston, he slotted home to give the visitors the lead against the run of play. The travelling support didn’t care though, they were sent berserk. It would be the final real talking point of the half.
Half Time: Arbroath 0-1 Greenock Morton
The wind continued to play its part in the second half. So much so, that every time Morton goalkeeper Ryan Mullen took a by-kick, the ball would hang up in the air and barely cross the halfway line. As such, the hosts found it sensible to play a more direct style for the second forty-five.
However, it would be the visitors who would carve the first opportunity after the break, with goal scorer Lewis McGrattan going close once more.
Scott Stewart continued to power up and down Arbroath’s right. His endeavour and hard work opened up a great opportunity to equalise. His low cross into the box was flicked on by Jay Bird, with the ball falling to the feet of David Gold. The midfielder swept his left foot strike into the far corner to deservedly put the hosts on the scoresheet. 1-1.
After a lot of pushing, Arbroath could only muster a few half-chances here and there. Despite having the majority of possession, it would be the away side who dealt the final blow. Ten minutes from time, re-signing Lewis Strapp’s long-throw was flicked on by centre-back Darragh O’Connor. The ball found it’s way to big striker George Oakley, who had time to take a touch and blast a shot into the top corner. A superb finish from the ‘Ton forward, who earned his side all three points.
Full Time: Arbroath 1-2 Greenock Morton
Jim McIntyre will be wondering how his side didn’t manage to pick up at least a point here. I felt his side looked the more dangerous, but just lacked the cutting edge to break down a resilient and battling Morton side. I felt Scott Stewart was one of the Arbroath stand-outs for me. He consistently pushed down the right-hand side and worked extremely hard for the team. I felt Jay Bird had an okay game too. His hold-up play was good, and if he had managed to slot away his big chance, we could be talking about a very different game. However, the home side are now in serious trouble, with Morton now just a point behind them in the table. There’s a long road ahead, but I believe Arbroath have the capacity to survive this season if they get the January transfer window right.
Dougie Imrie and his Morton side will be absolutely delighted to have snatched a victory against their closest league rivals. Despite not playing at their best, they took their two best chances of the game and move to within a point of the relegation play-off. I felt Lewis McGrattan and George Oakley took their goals fantastically, with the defence standing strong to deny the hosts an equaliser at the death. The re-signing of Lewis Strapp also looks to be a smart piece of business. The only way is up for Morton.
Overall, despite the poor conditions, I felt I was treated to a genuinely interesting game of football. Both sides adapted to the weather and played the way they felt would be best to get a result. There was no shortage of drama with missed opportunities and a late goal to seal a victory. I feel it deserves a solid 2.5/5.
Pricing
For this game in the second tier of Scottish football, a standard ticket for the terrace was priced at £21. I think this is generally fair, as this ticket allows you wander across both sides of the ground and gives you the opportunity to change your vantage point at any time. The actual football was never going to be amazing today given the weather, but I feel more often than not, this ticket price is reasonable given the division Arbroath are in at the moment.
Although I wasn’t able to indulge in any food or drink within the ground, these also looked to be reasonably priced. I’ll make sure to bring some actual cash with me next time. Overall, I feel the pricing deserves a 4/5.
Final Score
Arbroath end the weekend with a final score of 14/20 from me. As a ground, Gayfield genuinely might be one of my all-time favourites. The feeling around the place just oozes history and you actually feel a part of something bigger once you’re in the ground. There’s not many places I can say that about. It feels good to have finally travelled up to visit the place, and I hope their inhabitants continue to enjoy success within its walls. I know its been said a million times, but if you haven’t already experienced Gayfield, please do. Embrace the cold. You won’t regret it.
Background
Kilwinning Rangers are a club that I have been interested in visiting for a wee while now. Since their introduction into the West of Scotland league system, they have embarked on a rollercoaster journey. After finishing a respectable 5th place in the first full Premier Division season, the club were unfortunately relegated the following year after only 7 wins in 30 games. Life in the First Division has started slowly for North Ayrshire side, sitting 9th in a 16-team league.
Despite The Buffs currently trying to settle themselves in new surroundings, a lot of their history in the junior leagues comes with a large degree of success. Formed as early as 1899, it did not take long for Kilwinning to make a splash on the national stage. After winning the Ayrshire Junior Challenge Cup in 1905, the Holy Grail of Scottish Junior fitba’ would follow just 4 years later. After a 0-0 draw in the final, The Buffs went on to lift the famous trophy with a 1-0 win over Strathclyde after extra-time at Rugby Park. In doing so, they became the first side from Ayrshire to ever win the cup. They almost became the first Ayrshire side to lift back-to-back titles the following year. At Firhill, The Buffs defeated Ashfield 1-0. However, Ashfield protested the result and succeeded, forcing a replay the following weekend. Kilwinning fell 3-0 in the second game, denying them consecutive cup wins. The club reached the final once more in 1922 only to be outfought 2-1 by St Rochs and the famous James McGrory.
It would take exactly 100 years from their first Scottish Junior Cup victory for the club to lift the trophy once more. On the 20th of May 1998, The Buffs took on Kelty Hearts at Firhill and beat them by a single goal in front of more than 7,500 people. It’s an achievement that is signified and celebrated with a flag at Buffs Park.
Amongst the two Junior Cup wins, Kilwinning have amassed a plethora of other silverware inside the trophy cabinets. These include but are not limited to a West of Scotland Superleague, an Ayrshire District League, and two West of Scotland Cups amongst a multitude of other local tournament wins.
The Buffs will be hoping to continue their journey to add another cup to the cabinet this weekend. They take on Renfrew in North Ayrshire for the right to advance to the next round of the West of Scotland Cup. Having been defeated 2-1 by Frew in early August, Kilwinning will be looking to retaliate by knocking them out of the cup and extending their excellent run of form simultaneously. It was looking to be a cracker.
Facilities
Located within the superb Kilwinning Community Sports Club, Buffs Park has been home to Kilwinning Rangers for the last 4 years. In that short space of time plenty of work has been done to ensure it is a welcoming and appropriate venue to play and watch football. It is fair to say that job has been done incredibly well.
Buffs Park is accessible on all four sides, with shelters covering the length of three and an American-style bleachers stand being the main viewpoint for punters. Despite having never visited Buffs Park before, I have sat in these very bleachers before. They were acquired from Benburb’s New Tinto Park in the last year or so: a ground I visited back in February 2022. I quite enjoy the look of a bleacher stand. It fits well for days like today where the sun is out and the temperature is mild. Not so sure it would have been quite as busy if typical Scottish weather were to hit.
A shout-out must also go out to the grounds staff at Buffs Park. The playing surface looked fantastic and allowed both teams to play football on the ground when it suited them. I’m not sure the game would have been as intense it the grass were not kept in such good shape.
Overall, I really like the look and feel of Buffs Park. It is by no means a finished product for a club that probably should be aiming high in the coming years, but it is a ground that has superb potential. Its tight and narrow playing surface mixed with the range of viewpoints and accessibility gives it an old-school feel in a relatively new location. 3.5/5.
Atmosphere
A good crowd turned up for today’s encounter. The bleacher had plenty of punters scattered around with all four sides having supporters leaning across the barriers. It was also pleasing to see Renfrew bringing through a decent number of supporters. They were very recognisable in their scarves and jackets lined up on the far touchline. On a day where nearby big boys Kilmarnock and Rangers were at home, it was good to see the town of Kilwinning come out to showcase their loyal support to their local team. They were in good voice for the majority of the game and added to the fiery battle taking place on the park. 2.5/5.
Quality of the Match
For two teams who play in the 7th tier of Scottish football, I was genuinely impressed with the quick tempo on display from both sides in the first fifteen minutes. It was clear that both Kilwinning and Renfrew were attempting to play their football on the ground on a surface that allowed them to. However, after taking the time to suss each other out, it would be the hosts who would take the lead. Graham Boyd latched on to a pass over the top and managed to get to the ball before Renfrew stopper Danny Mcleay. From a narrow angle, the striker played the ball across the box where fellow forward Dylan Mackin was free to slide the ball home. I’m not sure the former Motherwell, Falkirk and Livingston man will score many easier goals this season.
With their tails up, Kilwinning perhaps should have immediately doubled their lead. More excellent work down the left-hand side resulted in a cross to the back post. Blair Macintyre rose high to head the ball goalwards, only to be brilliantly denied from point blank range by McLeay. A let off for Renfrew.
McLeay was again called into some very important action soon after. A superb kick from Buffs goalkeeper George O’Connor saw Gavin Millar through on goal. His legs tangled with the last defender, resulting in the midfielder going down and a penalty being awarded. Despite protests from the away side, it looked pretty clear-cut from my angle. Mackin stepped up, but Mcleay superbly dived to his left to deny the striker his second of the game.
Some teams may have taken a step back and lost momentum after missing a penalty, but Kilwinning kept pushing. Their pressure paid off when Mark Lamont pulled off some excellent footwork and slipped teammate Gavin Millar through on goal. With just Mcleay to beat, the midfielder kept his cool to slot home. The Buffs were in control and thoroughly deserved their two-goal lead.
However, despite having not had any great control over the game, Renfrew dealt a blow or two of their own. With 5 minutes to half time, they attacked down the right-hand side. A lovely cross to the back post found left-back Andrew Wright, who guided a wonderful header into the far corner. Deficit halved.
They were not done there though. Almost exactly 60 seconds later, they won a corner. In almost a carbon copy of their first goal, a cross to the back was nodded home at close range by Ben McLernan. Kilwinning seemed shellshocked to be heading into the break level.
Half Time: Kilwinning Rangers 2-2 Renfrew FC
After a slow first 15 minutes of the second half, Kilwinning got themselves back in front. Once again, Gavin Millar took centre stage. A lovely piece of play between him and Graham Boyd saw Millar positioned just outside the box with the ball at his feet. A lovely touch away from the defender gave him time and space to drive the ball hard and low into the net. A wonderful goal to give the hosts the lead once more.
Millar would have been gutted not to have his hattrick soon after. After gaining possession on the right-hand side, he pushed his way into the box and struck the ball goalwards. However, Mcleay was more than equal to it from a tight angle as he battered the initial strike and the rebound away.
With his hosts dominating possession, it only seemed right that a fourth goal would be forthcoming. More good work down the right resulted in a cross to the back-post. Neil McGregor met the ball with a lovely diving header to guide the ball home. A very well worked goal to complete the scoring.
Full Time: Kilwinning Rangers 4-2 Renfrew FC
I felt Kilwinning were more than deserving of this win. They controlled possession, played some excellent attacking football and produced some lovely individual performances. A special shout-out must go out to Gavin Millar, who scored two wonderful goals and was fairly unlucky not to score a hattrick. I felt Dylan Mackin was also impressive. He used his body well in attack and showed his SPFL experience well. It is clear manager Chris Aitken is beginning to get a tune out of his side. It was also great to see some development players earning their chance with a few substitutions.
Renfrew will naturally be disappointed with their performance today. It was incredibly impressive to see them score 2 swift goals to level the match and they will be frustrated not to keep it closer for longer. However, they do have some very talented players and it is clear that they will be absolutely fine in the First Division. After a league and cup double last season, it will not be surprising to see them climb their way up the league.
Overall, I was treated to 6 goals, some great drama and a plethora of good individual performances. I feel this match deserves a worthy 4/5.
Pricing
For this West of Scotland Cup game, entry was a mere £8. For a club with the size and reputation of Kilwinning at this level, I think this is a bit of a steal. Catering was also fairly priced which is always pleasing to see. You can never argue with seeing a good game, a wonderful venue and a great feel at this price. 5/5.
Final Score
Kilwinning Rangers finish the weekend with a score of 15/20. I really enjoyed my time down at Buffs Park and feel it is a place that lower league enjoyers should take themselves along to. It will certainly be interesting to see if they can continue their momentum up the league and find a way back to the Premier Division. I for one will be keeping my eye on them.
– Connor
A View from the Hill – Carluke Rovers – 12/08/23
Background
I’m enjoying the feeling of getting back into a regular football routine. Whether its season ticket duty, travels on the road or watching some daft game on the telly, it feels good to have the fitba’ back full-time.
I love covering and experiencing lower league games. I feel it is important to take in the culture of the clubs in tiers 5 and below and to see what it means to the countless communities who come out to support their local teams week in, week out. Games are different at this level. Passions run high, emotions flare and controversies are rife. There are often local bragging rights at stake, adding a different sense of disappointment after a loss and a heighted level of elation when winning. I’d have it no other way.
This week, I’m heading somewhere relatively local to me. Carluke lies a short distance from the North-South Lanarkshire border and roughly consists of around 15,000 people. Although it is mostly a commuter down to Glasgow and its surrounding areas, Carluke has a large amount of history within its borders, having first been documented way back in 1315. In the time between then and now, it has expanded a fair amount given its industrialised role. Carluke was often regarded as one of Lanarkshire’s major hubs for coal mining, cotton weaving, corn milling and bricks/glass production.
With a growing population, it is only natural for sports to play an important role in a town’s culture and identity. Since 1887, Carluke Rovers have been this presence. Formed originally as Carluke Milton Rovers, they have been a mainstay for the community for some time. During the late 1800s and early-mid 1900s, The Rovers have been relatively successful on a local level. The trophy cabinet is lined with a multitude of Lanarkshire Junior Cups, Hozier Cups and Lanarkshire Leagues. On a more recent note, Carluke’s West Central Second Division title remains the last piece of silverware won by the club.
Currently, after relegation last season, The Rovers play in the West of Scotland League’s Fourth Division – one of the basement leagues in the Scottish football pyramid. Although disappointing, it does mean the only way is up for the club. They’ll be mixing with some other established and historic clubs while also competing with some brand new entities in Scottish senior football. After three games of the current season, the club sit with a single win and two losses – not the ideal start. However, this weekend brings an encouraging challenge. They face Newmains United, a team ten minutes up the road. They were both relegated from the Third Division last season and so will provide a stern test on both sides. It was sure to be interesting.
Facilities
The John Cumming Stadium is named after one of The Rovers’ most famous sons. The Iron Man spent his younger years in Carluke before becoming an icon at Heart of Midlothian. He turned out 359 times for The Jambos as well as gaining nine Scotland caps. His legacy lives on through this purpose built community stadium which serves a multitude of purposes.
The first and most obvious amenity is the running track. Generally, they are seen as fairly unpopular in a football context and its understandable why. It limits the views of the action and puts a distance between the support and the players. However, I would say that Carluke’s home is definitely not the worst ground in Scotland to have a running track. The simplistic but purposeful main grandstand does give a decent view of proceedings and served as the main hub for supporters on the day.
The entirety of the pitch can be circumnavigated, with a large grass embankment behind one of the goals. I genuinely believe it is the best place to watch the action from, giving a superb view of proceedings, as well as giving the ability to take in the South Lanarkshire countryside in the background. I would highly recommend taking a wee wander up and plonking yourself down up the hill to watch at least a small part of the game.
The food/drink facilities also speak for themselves, and fair play to the sole volunteer behind the counter providing all the punters’ needs.
As a whole, I quite enjoy the John Cumming Stadium. On face value, the running track isn’t great but there are certainly ways around it to enjoy the game from a different perspective. I feel it deserves a decent 3/5.
Atmosphere
The grandstand at the John Cumming was relatively full, with most other punters dotted around on the perimeter. While only a small number of spectators were in attendance, plenty of voices ensured they were heard throughout the game. It was also great to see a decent number of Newmains supporters travel the short distance to support their local team. They certainly added to the game’s audio. 2/5.
Quality of the Match
Both of these sides are still trying to find their feet in the Fourth Division and this was perhaps obvious in the first ten minutes with both teams feeling each other out. Carluke did muster the first real opportunity of the game. A free kick deep to the back post was met by the head of an advanced Rovers centre-back, only to be denied by the legs of Terry in the Newmains net.
That chance proved to be a warning for the opening goal. After some excellent build up play in the midfield, the ball made its way to striker Greg Miller who curled a wonderful effort into the back of the net. You could only feel it was a deserved lead after a period of consistent pressure.
Against the run of play though, Newmains equalised. After some midfield play of their own, the ball was played forward to Dan McGowan. The striker took a touch into the box before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike across goal into the top corner. A wonderful finish.
Carluke did not appear phased and continued to push forward. Their pressure was justified when the home side’s number ten found himself through on goal. The goalkeeper did well to prevent being rounded, but the rebound could only fall into the path of Greg Miller once more. The striker powered a half-volley into the bottom corner to give the lead back to the hosts.
It looked comfortable for Carluke, until a defensive error allowed the visitors to level once more. Too much time on the ball at the back allowed Dan McGowan the chance to bare down on goal. He successfully rounded the goalkeeper, kept his composure and slotted the ball home. 2-2.
The last opportunity of the opening forty-five fell to Carluke’s left-back. His free-kick brought a smart save out of Terry to end the half.
Half Time: Carluke Rovers 2-2 Newmains United
After four goals in the first half, it would take a whirlwind of action to beat it for entertainment. It started off well, with Dan McGowan sent through on goal once more. He successfully rounded the Carluke stopper but was tackled in the process. Thankfully for Newmains, veteran striker Kris Jarvie was on hand to tap the ball home to give the visitors the lead for the first time.
With Newmains taking the lead, the game slowed to a snail’s pace. A lack of quality in the final third allowed a period of quietness for both goalkeepers. This changed fifteen minutes from time. Another superb ball from the Newmains midfield broke the Carluke defensive lines. Kris Jarvie found himself one-on-one again and made no mistake by taking the ball round the goalkeeper and slotting home. The visitors had breathing space.
Not for long though. With a couple of minutes left, a long throw into the visitor’s box was not dealt with. The hesitation allowed Greg Miller the opportunity to poke him from close range to seal his hattrick and provide what everyone thought would be a nervy ending, especially with an overhead kick going incredibly close on the next attack.
However, with a minute to play, Newmains broke forward. Their number fourteen was sent through on goal and shot from just outside the box. The strike was low and powerful enough to beat Carluke’s ‘keeper and officially seal the points for the visitors.
Full Time: Carluke Rovers 3-5 Newmains United
After a mostly dominating first-half performance, Carluke will be disappointed to have taken nothing from the game. They failed to make the most of their chances and allowed the visitors back into the game with poor defensive work. However, it looks as though The Rovers have an incredibly young squad who will only get better as the season goes on. If they can gel together quickly and reflect on their performances I believe they’ll be absolutely fine this season.
Newmains will be delighted to have come from behind to win this one. They rode their luck at times with sustained pressure and took their chances when they became available. Dan McGowan and Kris Jarvie in particular kept their cool when the time was right to give the visitors three valuable points.
As a whole, I was treated to eight goals, a battling performance from both sides and plenty of action. I feel this spectacle deserves a solid 4/5.
Pricing
As with all matches at this level, the value for money is incredible. I paid £6 for entry, meaning I paid a measly 75p per goal. The food and drink prices were also unreal. I paid £2.60 for a (class) curry pie and a coffee. Eight goals and a good time all for under a tenner. I wish I could give more than a 5/5.
Final Score
Carluke Rovers end the day with a solid 14/20. I enjoyed my time at the John Cumming Stadium and feel that The Rovers represent their community well. Despite a disappointing result on the day, it is clear to see how well respected they are in this humble South Lanarkshire town. They are definitely worth a visit, even if it is just to take in the view from the hill.
– Connor
Crossing the Line – Crossgates Primrose – 05/08/23
Background
Scottish football is back. The Viaplay Cup group stage has already concluded, the SPFL begins this weekend and most importantly in my opinion, the Scottish lower leagues are well and truly underway. For me, tiers 5 and below are some of the most exciting and competitive leagues in the country. Local clubs with local fans and local players battling it out for the right to advance up the Scottish football pyramid. High scoring games, intense drama and battling performances are the norm at this level and I wish more people were able to experience it on a regular basis. I know they wouldn’t regret it.
The East of Scotland Premier Division is one of those leagues that I expect to be highly entertaining over the course of the next 10 months or so. I’ve seen a fair few teams in this division, all of which are capable of producing wonderful performances and high-skilled play. Crossgates Primrose are the next team to be visited in this weird journey of exploring Scottish football grounds, and I’m excited to see what they’re all about.
Based in the old Fife mining town of Crossgates, The Rose in their original entity were formed way back in 1926, where they competed in the Fife Junior League. Despite being a recognisable and often top three team in the area, no league title was ever brought home to Humbug Park. However, the trophy cabinets at this time did consist of a fair few Fife Cups, as well as some respectable runs in the Scottish Junior Cup. Legendary figure Jim Baxter joined the club during this period before being sold to Raith Rovers for £200 and heading towards an astronomical rise to the top of the game.
With the Fife League struggling and witling down to just 11 teams during the early parts of the 1960/61 season, Primrose become yet another casualty and folded. This left the town with no footballing representation for 22 years until the club’s reformation in 1982.
With Crossgates Primrose back in the mix, silverware has come few and far between. Humble successes have generally come in the form of top half league finishes, runners up medals in the East Coast Windows Cup and Kingdom Cup and semi-final appearances in other local cup competitions.
Despite being relatively steady on the pitch, things looked bad off it once again. A difficulty recruiting committee members left the club in a state of abeyance four months into the 2015/16 season, with the club unable to complete the rest of their fixtures. Thankfully, this was sorted, and Primrose gave their full intentions to rejoin the setup for the beginning of the 2016/17 season.
In 2018, The Rose joined a mass exodus from junior football and applied to be a part of the East of Scotland Football League, with a place at the newly redeveloped SFA pyramid at stake. This was achieved, with Crossgates qualifying for the right to play in the Premier Division after a high finish in Conference ‘B’. They have certainly been able to hold their own in this environment and will be looking to push past their highest finish of 5th place in 2022, as well as adding more silverware after lifting the Alex Jack Cup in 2021 – their first trophy since 1956.
After two games of the season, Primrose sit with an opening day 3-1 defeat at Haddington Athletic before beating Inverkeithing Hillfield Swifts 3-2 at Humbug Park. However, this weekend presents a very different challenge. Perth’s Jeanfield Swifts are highly anticipated to challenge for the league title. They have amassed an impressive two wins from two and will be hoping to maintain their 100% record moving forward. This hosts will be looking to stop them to advance their own goals. It’ll be a cracker either way.
Facilities
The superbly named Humbug Park gets its title after one of the old pits at the Cuttlehill Colliery and is pretty much the same location to where the pitch the built. It is a fairly basic yet spacious set-up with all four sides of the pitch accessible. Behind one of the goals is a small embankment which gives an elevated view of the playing surface – of which looked fantastic.
The social club is a nice wee building with plenty of space for a gab, while the food hut is always available at any time of the game. The only thing missing is a shelter or stand of some sort. It would have certainly come in handy during another downpour in this so called ‘summer.’
All in all, Crossgate’s humble home is an absolutely fine arena for football which is sat in the centre of its community. I like its simplicity and throwback feel to junior fitba’. The lack of protection from the elements probably needs addressing, but maybe that’s me just whining a bit. 2/5.
Atmosphere
According to The Roses’ Twitter X account, the attendance at Humbug Park came in at 87. It is important to note that Crossgates is a small village around 2 miles from the newly crowned city of Dunfermline. The Pars were beginning their exciting new campaign in the SPFL Championship, which may have reduced numbers heading to their local club. Nevertheless, the punters who did turn out were in good voice. In a tense game, their shouts and cheers must have pushed their team on in much-needed moments.
Whatever any reason, fair play to the supporters who come week in, week out. This includes a small section of youngers with a ‘Crossgates Ultras’ flag hung behind the goal. I always find it amazing to see the younger generation coming out to cheer on their local team. It builds the connections that run deep in football. Long may it continue. 2.5/5.
Quality of the Match
I’ve a confession to make. I missed the first ten minutes of this game thanks to underestimated traffic heading across the bridge to Fife. A forty-minute drive took around an hour and a half, leaving me to miss The Roses’ opening goal of the game. I was assured by a supporter that it was a decent finish from Gregor MacDonald. 1-0 Crossgates.
We begin our report from the 10th minute, where annoyingly not much happened for a wee while. It took another fifteen minutes of action before I witnessed the first opportunity. Some excellent build up play down Jeanfield’s left-hand side resulted in an inch perfect cross to the centre of the box. Striker Chris Dodd met it with a low diving header but put it just wide. Unchallenged, he probably should have equalised.
The visitors seemed to have a better feel of the game but were not troubling Primrose ‘keeper Miko Komocki too much. That was until a misplaced pass in the centre of midfield sent Swifts winger Hamilton down the right. His back-post cross beat the Crossgates defence and was nodded back towards goal by Chris McLeish. A good finish, and a deserved goal.
Then, strangely, it almost felt as though their hard work counted for nothing. The game was becoming a bit hot-headed. The wet weather led to poor touches, a slippery surface and more space for hard challenges. Both teams were going at it, and an obvious pull of the shirt by a Crossgates midfielder on Jeanfield’s Fraser Smith resulted in a swift kick-out by the visitor. Needless, silly and sent off. Jeanfield were down to ten.
Half Time: Crossgates Primrose 1-1 Jeanfield Swifts
Despite a man advantage and a new belief they could go on to win the match, it was unfortunate that Crossgates were unable to push any momentum onto the visiting defence. Instead, Jeanfield controlled possession for the most part without creating many chances of their own. Both teams attempted some long rangers, with neither ‘keeper really having to produce a big save.
The visitors did go close with a long-ranger. Chris Scott beat his man, cut inside from around 30 yards before firing his strike just over the home goal. Inches.
The Rose should have been ahead with ten minutes to go. Some excellent midfield play sent striker Cammy Muirhead through on goal with just Swifts ‘keeper Mark Mitchell to beat. Muirhead successfully rounded the stopper but found the angle too tight and slipped in the process. Still in space, he squared the ball to the onrushing Alex Chingwalu who side-footed the ball wide of the post with the majority of the goal to aim at. A wasted opportunity.
The miss would go punished. With five minutes on the clock, Crossgate’s defence had a lap in concentration. It allowed Swifts right-back Jamie Reid the ability to steal the ball, head to the by-line and cut the ball back across goal. It made its way to an unmarked Chris Scott who had the simple job of tapping it into the net. The visitors would run away with the three points.
Crossgates Primrose 1-2 Jeanfield Swifts
Naturally, Crossgates will be mightily disappointed not to have come away with anything. After leading for the most of the first half and spending the entire second one with an extra man, it will be a difficult defeat to take. Perhaps the conditions hampered their style of play, perhaps they fell to the pressure. Regardless, they have some superb fight, grit and individual talent to tell me they’ll be absolutely fine this season.
Jeanfield leave Fife with all three points. Their performance with ten men was admirable and continued to push even with the player disadvantage. They certainly added to a fiery contest and on the face of things, probably deserved the victory. It is not difficult to see why they are amongst the favourites to win the division. I hope to be up at a game in Perth soon.
Overall, I was treated to some excellently worked goals, a battling performance from two proper teams and a red card. The narrative writes itself, and its easy to give this game a 3.5/5.
Pricing
£8 was the entry fee to this EoS Premier Division game, a usual price for this level. For me, there is always excellent value for money at prices like this and I can never have any complaints. The food and drink prices also appeared to be reasonable, with punters often lining up to get a pie or hot drink. 5/5 every time.
Final Score
Crossgates Primrose end the day with a solid 13/20. They are a club which have had their fair share of ups and down but have always remained a steady figure in the community. It’s filled with friendly people, a committed squad of players and a sense of real, rustic fitba’. Humbug Park is definitely worth a visit with its open space and throwback feel. Fife is good of hidden gems, and Crossgates Primrose are one of them. Give them a visit.
– Connor
‘Ludere Causa Ludendi’ – Queens Park Football Club – 29/07/23
Background
Scottish football is a unique and mesmerising world. In many ways, our game has provided many elements to what is now the modern version of the sport. Early playing rules were developed in Scotland, the idea of passing the ball instead of charging forward in a formation was started in Scotland and the instalment of a crossbar came about in Scotland. These innovative changes were the beginning of how we see football now, all brought together by one entity: Queens Park Football Club.
Queens Park are Scotland’s oldest association football club having been formed way back in 1867. Their historical, cultural and sporting legacy is unquestionable. The entire Scotland squad for the world’s first ever international football match consisted of Queens Park players. Our footballing home Hampden Park was built by Queens Park. The instigation of the Scottish Football Association and the creation of the Scottish Cup was led by Queens Park. So much of what we know and love about our game comes from this club from the southside of Glasgow, and that’s only scratching the surface.
Throughout the majority of their history, Queens Park have been an amateur side competing in a world where money has become an increasing necessity. They were formed under the motto Ludere Causa Ludendi, meaning ‘For the Sake of Playing.’ They believed that football should be played as a form of competitive camaraderie and should not be influenced by financial gains. In the early days of Scottish football, it worked. To this day, Queens Park have the accolade of winning ten Scottish Cups – the third highest in the country. They dominated Scottish football and regularly played in the ‘Football World Championship’ game against the winners of England’s FA Cup. They’ve won it four times.
Since the glory days of the late 1800s, Queens Park’s values, while admirable and respectable have arguably held them back in the greater scheme of the sport. Clubs around them began paying their players and offering incentives Queens Park couldn’t match with their amateur status. While the draw of playing for such a historical and innovative club was still high it is difficult to turn down being paid to play the sport you love. It is remarkable that Queens Park held their own for so long as an amateur club, winning all three lower divisions at some point in the last 70 years or so.
However, in 2019 it was time for change. After more than 150 years as an amateur side, it was decided that Queens Park would turn professional. 91% of Queens Park members voted the proposal through, ending the process of losing quality players for no compensation. It is no secret that Queens Park’s change has come with significant financial backing, allowing them to sign well-known, quality players to begin their life as a professional side. They skooshed League 2 at the first time of asking and won the League 1 play-offs the following year. The rise continued in the Championship and were one win away from promotion to the Premiership. However, a final day winner-takes-all defeat to Dundee and a play-off loss to Partick Thistle left Queens Park agonising on what could have been.
Ambition remains high and Queens Park certainly have heavy wishes for promotion sooner rather than later. The development of Lesser Hampden is seemingly representative of the club’s new era, even with their plans to play their league home games next door. For now though, the League Cup Group Stages are the priority. It is the weekend of the final round of matches, with Queens Park still having a chance (however slim) of progressing into the knockout rounds. Today, The Spiders face a ‘Battle of the Queens’ with Queen of the South travelling from Dumfries and Galloway with hopes of getting through the group themselves. Robin Veldman’s side will be hoping for a positive performance and three points to carry momentum into the upcoming league season. It feels as though it could be a cracker.
Facilities
As a footballing arena, Lesser Hampden dates back 99 years to 1924. Originally built as a venue to host reserve and youth team games, it had an original capacity of 12,000. It is situated right next to Hampden Park and sits directly in the heart of Glasgow’s southside tenement jungle. Since its recent redevelopment it stands as a modern structure in an aged but nostalgic setting.
Speaking of said redevelopment, it has taken a bit of time and a more than expected amount of money to get it to where it is today. Running the entire length of the pitch, the West Stand provides a decent view of proceedings with five rows of seating. It is a fairly similar look and feel to Edinburgh City’s Meadowbank, only significantly better. Upon entrance to the stand, you’re instantly greeted with a decent looking food hut, leading up to the seating area. It all looks pretty slick and easy to navigate with a superb playing surface to boot. So far, so good.
On the opposite end of the ground lies a director’s box/stand. I won’t lie, it looks a bit daft. Its square look and isolation from anything else makes it stand out like a sore thumb. I also feel it places a strange dissociation between the support and the club hierarchy. I’m sure it serves its intended purpose well but for me it doesn’t look great.
With Queen’s Parks plans to play their league games at Hampden this season, it does give yet more time to bring Lesser Hampden up to a suitable size and standard for the club’s future ambitions. It almost feels as though their project has gone too well so far and has moved too quickly to build an appropriate venue to play in the Championship/Premiership. If Queens Park do end up promoted to the Premiership, I would not be surprised to see them play in Hampden for the foreseeable given the huge financial gains of hosting the country’s biggest clubs and largest supports every other week.
For now, Lesser Hampden does the job. It is more than suitable to host League Cup games and matches with a lower expected attendance. Although the director’s box is a bit of a weird structure, the rest of the stadium is perfectly fine as a footballing arena. 2.5/5.
Atmosphere
For games like this, having the ability to just pack out an entire stand is a positive for the matches’ atmosphere. Over 800 people were in attendance at Lesser Hampden, with the 200+ Queen of the South supporters making the majority of the noise throughout the game. All in all the game had a pretty friendly feel to it, with plenty of young kids attending with their parents. I always feel its important for young ones to support their local club whenever possible to build a connection. I feel Queens Park will certainly be able to do this in the coming years given their move back to Glasgow.
I feel the atmosphere in Lesser Hampden will be considerably better than what it’ll be in a half-empty Hampden, so it was nice to experience a closer and more compact version of what the supporter experience at Lesser Hampden can be. 3/5.
Quality of the Match
Both teams came into this Viaplay League Cup group stage match with a possible (yet outside) chance of qualification to the last 16. The Spiders were fresh from a five-goal demolition of Elgin City, while The Doonhamers were rueing a missed opportunity after losing on penalties to East Fife on Tuesday night.
The home side started the brighter of the two and went close after two minutes. Winger Jack Turner burst forward and unleashed a strike that went just wide of Gordon Botterill’s goal.
Marvin Bartley’s side returned with a few unanswered chances. First, a cutback to Gavin Reilly allowed the striker the opportunity to fire a snapshot at the home goal. Spiders goalkeeper Callan McKenna was equal to it though, producing a smart save down to his right-hand side. McKenna would be called into action again soon after as Cammy Logan burst through the Queens Park defence. With the just the ‘keeper to beat and the angle getting ever tighter, his attempted lob was well blocked by the onrushing Queens Park stopper.
The travelling support were sensing a goal was coming for their team and sure enough, they were up off their seats with around half an hour gone. With Queens Park striker Ruari Paton having to drop deep to collect the ball, his attempted cross field pass deflected off ‘South midfielder Harry Cochrane and into the path of forward Kieran McKechnie. McKechnie rounded Callan McKenna and rolled the ball into the net, only for the assistant to raise his flag.
That scare seemed to lift the home side to create a few chances of their own. First, the ever-lively Dom Thomas’ beat his man on the left before hitting a deflected cross. The QoS ‘keeper could only look on as the ball bounced off his crossbar and out for a corner. The bar would get no respite as it would be struck again five minutes later. With the away side struggling to clear a corner, the ball fell to Jack Thomson whose powerful effort left the upright shaking. Mightily unlucky.
With the home side in the ascendency towards the break, they perhaps should have been heading into half time a goal up. Jack Thomson once again involved, his low ball into the box found Dom Thomas. However, with virtually the last kick of the half, his strike from just inside the box flew high over Gordon Botterill’s goal. An exciting half, but no breakthrough thus far.
Half Time: Queens Park 0-0 Queen of the South
You’d have thought the message inside the home dressing room would have been to keep playing, pressing and exploiting the spaces in between the ‘South midfield and defence. They probably felt they had the better chances and were unlucky not to be in the lead and that their time was coming in the second half. However, football is a game with lightning quick turnarounds. Two minutes after the interval, Queens Park’s captain and defensive giant Charlie Fox was given his marching orders for a deemed last-man challenge. It’s a shame too, he’d been superb so far in the game. The home side were down to ten.
Weirdly though, Queens Park’s chances continued with the player deficit and they arguably looked better with ten men. Some excellent play by Barry Hepburn down the right-hand side saw him beat ‘South defender Kyle McLelland and cut the ball back to Louis Longridge. Most of the West Stand had the perfect view to watch his rifled strike fly just past Botterill’s right post.
However, The Doonhamers eventually got to grips with the situation and began to dominate the midfield. Their pressure showed in the form of a well-worked goal on the 65th minute. Josh Todd worked his man magnificently on the left before cutting a low ball back to his striker Gavin Reilly. With the ball on a plate, Reilly’s easy finish put the away side a goal up.
Queens Park did respond and continued to apply whatever pressure they could. Left-back Tommy Robson drew a smart low save from Botterill after charging into the box and unleashing a low strike.
In the space of 5 minutes, both goalkeepers would have different stories to tell. With Gordon Botterill having just kept his side ahead, Callan McKenna would have a moment to forget. The ‘keeper had almost been caught out with taking too long on back-passes throughout the game, and Queen of the South knew it. With McKenna dilly-dallying on the ball, Harry Cochrane charged towards him, tackled him cleanly and had the simple job of knocking the ball into an empty net. Not McKenna’s finest moment. 0-2.
Queens Park were still resilient and felt they could get back into the match. With ten minutes to go, some pinball in the box resulted from a weird lunging tackle from both sides to regain a loose ball. I’m not entirely sure what happened, but the referee deemed the ‘Doonhamers act to be an illegal one, with a penalty awarded to the home side. With the perfect opportunity to bring the hosts back into the match, four-goal hero and former ‘South player Ruari Paton stepped up. However, the goal-filling Gordon Botterill guessed correctly and produced a wonderful save to keep the away side’s two goal advantage.
The home side didn’t stop though. The introduction of former Arthurlie winger Aaron Healy brought some pace and agility to the side, and a moment of pure brilliance set up a nervy ending for QoS. Just outside the box, the ball flicked up, leaving Healy to produce a wonderful volley into the corner of the net. Botterill had no chance. 1-2.
There would be one final chance. After some excellent build up play, Ruari Paton wandered across the edge of the box before striking the ball goalwards. It looked destined to creep in at the far post but went agonisingly wide, much to the despair of the home supporters in front of me who had already leapt out of their seats in expectant euphoria. It wasn’t to be though. The away side would take the three points.
Full Time: Queens Park 1-2 Queen of the South
Queens Park will be a bit gutted not to have taken anything from the match. Even with ten men for essentially the entire second half, they will feel they had the better opportunities and squandered the chance to snatch a draw. It is clear how well versed they are as a team though and I feel they will be just fine heading into this Championship season. Despite his red card, I felt Charlie Fox was outstanding for the time he spent on the pitch and it is clear how important he is to this Queens Park side.
Queen of the South will have been delighted to head back down to Dumfries with a win against higher league opposition. I felt they were great for the most part and managed to establish some good tempo and passing play through the lines. The centre-back pairing of the legendary Efe Ambrose and Hibernian loanee Kyle McLelland looked solid for the most part, with plenty of attacking power at the other end. I wouldn’t be surprised to see The Doonhamers finish high in League 1.
Overall, I was treated to three goals, a red card, a goalkeeping howler and some all round superb individual performances. I think its fair to give this game a solid 3.5/5.
Pricing
I paid a reasonable £12 for this League Cup group stage tie, a price I believe to be fair at this level. Although I didn’t partake in any food or drink, it also looked well priced. For the experience, level of football and quality on show I think it’s fair to give a solid 4.5/5 for this.
Final Score
Queens Park end the day with a score of 13.5/20 for the experience at Lesser Hampden. Although it is not the finished product, it is certainly grand for a game at this level given the time and money that has been spent so far on the renovation. It looks as though the only way is up for Queens Park, and with the potential financial gains of using Hampden throughout the season, it might be difficult to stop Scotland’s oldest club returning to the top level. It’ll certainly be an interesting journey.
– Connor
The Scottish Football Adventure 