MICHAELMURRAY
Whilst the league campaign has not started as we would have hoped the team’s performance in the Trust Trophy has been nothing short of fantastic, providing a thrilling highlight to the season so far. This has given the club a boost at an early stage in season and we look forward to the next cup game.
The cup success serves as a reminder of the team’s potential and could be the catalyst needed to kick-start our league campaign. The challenge now for the squad is to translate their cup form into consistent league performances however It must be noted that the Highland League’s appeal is that no one team stands out as guaranteed leaders.
The draw on Monday has given us the challenge of facing Rangers B. This may not have been the favoured choice of most but I do know this was the tie our vice chairman had hoped for. This will no doubt be a fantastic away day for the team and fans alike.
MichaelMurray
The financial benefits for each round are not lost on the board. The further we progress brings much needed funds to support our growth.
As you are all aware we have sold Zane to Inverurie Locos and we wish him every success but hopefully not at our expense. Andy Reid joins the club bringing additional competition for our keepers and his experience will only benefit the team in a positive way.
As we continue to develop our young players having our experienced team members
around them re-enforces the clubs long established policy of nurturing local talent and allowing them to progress to the first team.
The board are looking ahead further than one season at a time with progress being made on one of our main targets for this season. Much fundraising will be required to reach those goals and with the support of the fans and local business alike we are sure we will achieve them. I look forward to announcing them in the future as we tick them off our to-do list.
MATCH CENTRE
MANAGER
MARK COWIE
At the time of writing this, the first team have played five league matches and two Scottish Challenge Cup ties, with a severe mixed bag of outcomes.
The league started in defeat with a 2-0 loss away to Wick. Seven days later and we drew 1-1 at home to a much improved Deveronvale side. In these games, we had large chunks of possession but we didn’t really create much to give us an opportunity to win either.
That seems to be a running theme at the moment which is a bit of a surprise to me. During our time at this club, one thing I think you can associate with us is attacking and scoring goals. I think we have been the league’s top scorers on more than one occasion. We don’t seem to be creating the same amount of chances or testing the goalkeeper near as much. In our five league games we have only scored four goals and three of those came in one game. I don’t necessarily think we are wasting chances, more not getting in to positions to create them or a lack of quality for the final pass or cross. It is something we as a coaching team are looking at and working hard to correct.
After the Deveronvale game we went up to Buckie Thistle on a Wednesday night and put in a much better performance on the whole. We won 3-1 thanks to goals from Sopel, Fig and Kieran but in all honesty (even the Buckie fans will admit) it could have and probably should have been a few more as we missed some really good chances. We knew this was a big game and hoped that this result would kick start our season.
Next we faced Brechin City at home who are one of the favourites to win the title. We have a good record against them but to be honest, in the first 20 minutes or so we were under a fair bit of pressure and couldn’t really get any control on the game. There weren’t much chances created against us but we didn’t have many opportunities to get on the ball. We managed to weather the storm and then came out much more aggressive in the second half. We finished the better side and the game finished 0-0. Probably a fair result over the piece with neither side really having much chances in the game.
So after our poor first two games, we managed to get ourselves back in to a respectable position by taking four points from six against last seasons top two sides.
Our most recent league game was an away trip to Clach which again finished 0-0. We again had more
Mark Cowie
of the ball but once more didn’t really create much to trouble the opposing keeper. Clach didn’t create much against us but they did hit the bar and the post so probably feel a point was merited. We came away from the game a bit disappointed as I felt we had let people down with our effort and performance.
I am not shying away from the fact that our league campaign has been poor and we need to correct this as soon as possible. We have the players who are capable of doing that so we need to work harder and through sheer grit and determination we will manage to get better results and start to climb the league table.
Where our league campaign hasn’t been great, we have managed to get in to the third round of the Scottish Challenge Cup after two impressive home performances.
In Round 1 we played a Hearts B side. With the game ending 1-1 at full time thanks to a Butcher goal it went to penalties. This took us back to the heartbreak of last season in the Highland League Cup final where we lost to Brora Rangers on penalties. However on this occasion we held our nerve better than our opponents and managed to get in to Round 2 which would be another home tie this time against League 2 side Forfar Athletic.
The first half of this game saw us defend quite a bit. Forfar managed to score one goal and really should have had at least one more but it was 0-1 at the break. We asked for a bit more belief in the second half and boy did we get it. We started to come in to the game more but the last 35 minutes of this half was probably up there with the best atmosphere I think I have seen at Bellslea. The place was electric and we took momentum and energy from the crowd
as we laid their goal under siege with pace and intensity. We got our deserved equaliser through Fig with an excellent right foot finish in to the top corner and then just before the end, Fig turned provider to smash a cross in which Connor Wood did excellent with to steer a header in to the net. We really were that good which is the frustrating thing as we put in a performance like that but four days later put in a performance against Clach which was the complete opposite.
A bit Jekyll and Hyde at the moment but we are looking for that consistency which will in turn churn out better results. We now have a tasty tie away to Rangers B in Round 3 next month which will be something new for the group to look forward to.
So all in all a bit of an up and down start. We spoke to the players this week about belief and confidence on the park. Its easy to forget what this group have given us over the years, with numerous big matches for all to enjoy as well as a good share of trophy wins. A tricky spell is guaranteed in football and we are going through one just now but we need to keep calm and believe in each other and the group, as well as what we are doing and through hard work we will come out the other side.
I hope you all still have faith in these players as I do. These guys have given us more over the last ten years than any other club and I think its important we stand by them and show a togetherness and unity as a football club that will see us roaring back.
Lets hope for a good September. As always thanks for your support of the boys. It truly is appreciated.
Mark
FFC DEBUTS
On the opening day of the season, three Broch players made their debuts. Jake Garden and Liam Strachan started the game, and Flynn McKay came on as a second half sub.
Jake and Flynn starred for the U18’s and U21’s last season while Liam returned to Bellslea from Broch United having played for them last season.
Congratulations to all three and we look forward to seeing them in many more games in the Black & White of the Broch.
JAKE GARDEN LIAM STRACHAN
FLYNN McKAY
MATCH CENTRE
The Club were delighted to recently secure the signature of Andy Reid on a permanent transfer from Inverurie Locos.
A vastly experienced goalkeeper, Andy has been a familiar face around the Highland League for 16 years, having also had spells with FormartineUnitedandTurriffUnited.
Andy also has Scottish League experience from his time with MontroseandForfarAthletic.
It's been a slower start than anticipated, having had some time out following injury at Broughty Athletic in pre-season, but we look forward to seeing Andy back in actionintheverynearfuture.
WELCOME TO ANDY REID FAREWELL TO ZANE LAIRD
Making the switch in the opposite direction is 20-year-old Zane Laird, who recently left Bellslea Park to join theLocos.
Zane was an integral part of our Aberdeenshire League winning squad of 2021/22 and made his Fraserburgh first-team debut in October 2021, coming on as a substitute at home to Lossiemouth. His first Broch top-team goal came at Strathspey in the 9-0 victory of August2022.
We would like to thank Zane for his contribution at Bellslea and wish him allthebestwithhisnewclub.
MATCH CENTRE
CAPTAIN WILLIE WEST
One of our cultured, music-fan players compared our start of the season to his favourite song ‘Life is a Rollercoaster’ by Ronan Keating although at the time it felt like ‘If tomorrow never comes” as we walked away with a 0-0 draw against Clach in Inverness.
Clach gave us a tough test and physically I think our hardest game of the season due to their style of play. Although it was end-to-end, neither team could find that end product and a draw was probably a fair result, but it widens the gap for us from where we ultimately want to be as a group at the top end of the table. It was hard to take the positives, but we were able to get our second clean sheet of the season.
Our start to the season did not meet expectations with our results losing 2-0 to Wick and drawing 1-1 with Deveronvale at home. Although I felt the opposition showed improvements from last season these were games where we should have won and certainly had opportunities to do so. It’s the longest journey home from Wick for a while and one where we met the Turriff squad at Golspie who were in equally low spirits suffering a heavy defeat to Brora.
We were under a bit of pressure when up next were champions Buckie away but the team retained a confidence that we could get something from the game. I thought we were well worth our win with some really good performances, it was a joy to watch Aidan and Fig cause no end of problems with their energy and the
Willie West
result really kick-started our season.
Our Challenge Cup campaign has been our best yet beating Hearts on penalties and Forfar Athletic 2-1. A few years ago, I recall advising that only once had we beaten league opposition in my time with the club and now we have done it a couple of extra times the last few seasons with Stranraer and now Forfar. The Bellslea in a midweek fixture is the best atmosphere to play in and the second half in particular of the Forfar game was a joy to be involved in. Fig caused havoc and defensively Keiran and Hayser were solid but the crowd I felt gave us that extra energy to go and win the gamewhich might have been just as well with the size of their keeper for penalties!
Brechin at home was next and a lot was said leading up to the game about our record against them but we knew how tough the game would be and, with the spoils shared, I think both camps were happy to take a point.
In my opinion, Brechin should have down to 10 men for the last man challenge on Fig but equally we might have been reduced to 10 at other moments of the game so perhaps a fair result.
Lots still to look forward to for the season with some big league games coming up and we will need to get some points or we will find ourselves out of the running. The SPFL Trust Trophy against Rangers B will be a good test for us - as will Buckie away be in the Aberdeenshire.
We say goodbye to Zane Laird, wishing him all the best with his new club, and we say hello to Andy Reid. Andy has already settled into the squad but is yet to play competitively following his injury in pre-season. It’s good to see him now back training and I’m sure we will see him feature in the months ahead.
Willie
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE TURRIFF UNITED v.
SATURDAY 31st AUGUST
THE HAUGHS, TURRIFF
Click or Double Tap for Turriff United Squad List
Photo: Barry Walker
Scott Barbour wheels away after giving the Broch the lead in Buckie
Photo: Mark Grant
MATCH CENTRE
COMMERCIAL CORNER
GEORGE THOM
I’d like to start by congratulating Mark, James, our coaches and all the 1st team squad for two tremendous performances in beating Hearts B and Forfar Athletic to reach the last 32 of the SPFL Trust Trophy for the first time –from a prestige and financial point of view this is really important to our Club.
I’d also like to thank everyone for their feedback on last month’s Commercial update, constructive suggestions and offer of support – please keep sharing your views with me.
I have stated many times through these commercial updates that we need to run our Football Club as a business, and engaging our fans on what we are doing and inviting suggestions, is so important as we move forward together.
Generating new income streams and retaining existing income sources continues to be a key priority for our Club. Here’s an update on our key income sources since the last edition:
CLUB
GeorgeThom
MATCH DAY
Season Ticket Holders and Pay-as-you-go fans
Thank you to our 116 Season ticket holders and to our fans who have attended our 6 home games so far. Our fans are the lifeblood of our Club, your continued support is greatly appreciated ….and this includes our many fans who have travelled to our away matches too.
EVENTS
Annual Golf Day
Friday 30th August
A big thank you to Michael Murray at M Squared Accountants who are our Sponsors for our first fundraiser of the new season. We still have a limited number of spaces left to join us. We are also having a raffle on the day in
aid of Club funds so any donations would be very welcome. (Promotional Flyer within this Bulletin).
Annual Business Lunch
Friday 1st November
We are still looking for a Sponsor for this important fundraising event in our Club calendar, so I’d be delighted to hear from anyone who is led to support the Club. (Promotional Flyer within this Bulletin).
HOSPITALITY LOUNGE:
As I mentioned last month, we now have around 30 Match Day Hospitality tickets available per match, and we will publish on our social media channels, the forthcoming matches that are sold out, and those that have spaces available. Now that the main holiday period is behind us, it’s encouraging to see we are nearing capacity for a
number of games. Just to confirm the match day price has been reduced this season to £65, including vat.
SPONSORSHIP
We still have sponsorship opportunities in the following areas:
Annual Business Lunchexpected guests 200.
Hall of Fame and End of Season Awards
Dinner, April 2025expected guests 400.
Boardroom at Bellslea Park - Business name outside door and within Boardroom.
Youth development –ongoing operational costs .
1st Team Squad –
Attraction, development and retention of our playing squad.
Bellslea Park ongoing maintenance
We also have aspirations to develop Bellslea Park with a new West enclosure (beside dug-outs) and we would be keen to engage any individuals or businesses who have an appetite to support us with this venture.
OFFICIAL PARTNERS
We are very grateful to our growing number of “Official Partners” who provide a business service to our Club – either complimentary or at a discount. This extends to businesses who pay an annual fee to sell their own products inside Bellslea Park, or FFC branded products elsewhere.
We would be delighted to hear from any business that would like to become an Official Partner to complement our existing Partners and add value to our Club and supporters (Please see separate page within this bulletin).
ADVERTISING
:
(Promotional Flyer within this Bulletin)
We are really appreciative of all businesses who support us season on season with around 150 Advertisement Boards at Bellslea Park - we currently have around 30 spaces around the ground that will hopefully suit every budget.
Thank you to our new Advertisers - Grampian Training Services, CK Travel Trade and Caledonia Asset Finance.
CLUB 1910 UPDATE:
We have set our next 2 events as part of our bimonthly programme, as we continue to work closer with our local and regional business community:
Thursday 5th September 11:00am to 1:00pm –Bellslea Park Hospitality Lounge. Business Financial Planning - Business growth and exit; Looking after your workforce; Managing business risk.
Thursday 14Th November 6:30pm to 8:00pm – Tour of Score Group facilities, Ian M Cheyne Building, Wellbank, Peterhead.
To confirm your attendance please contact me
George.thom@fraserburghfc.co.uk
NEXT MONTH
In next month’s Bulletin, we will provide a further update on the non-playing side of our Club - if any of our Bulletin readers would like something specific covered in the Commercial update, please do get in touch
George.thom@fraserburghfc.co.uk
Until our next Bellslea Bulletin, all the best, George
SATURDAY
Photo: Mark Grant
Club Sponsors
We would like to thank our current Sponsors for your continued support, and to our new Sponsors, thank you, we are delighted to have your support.
Main Sponsor, Front of First Team Shirt, Club 1910
Youth Kit
FFC in the Community, FFC TV, Back of First Team Shirt
Bellslea Park Maintenance
First Team Travel Kit Bellslea Park Upgrade: LED Floodlights
Back of First Team Shirt
First Team Subs Jackets
Bellslea Park Maintenance
Coming up
Click or Double Tap for Buckie Thistle Squad List
Following the recent win over Buckie Thistle, our Captain and Number 8 Willie West has now climbed above Jimmy Young in the all-time list of Fraserburgh FC appearance makers.
Now second only to Goalkeeper and fellow Hall-of-Famer Billy Gordon, this also means Willie now holds the record for an outfield player.
Congratulations, Willie and here's to many more.
Match sponsors for our recent game against Brechin City were CK Travel Trade.
They chose as their Man of The Match, Kieran Simpson.
Pictured is Keiran receiving his award from Kevin Christie of CK Travel Trade.
Also celebrating a recent landmark is Greg Buchan who marked his 200th Broch appearance in the Cup victory over Forfar Athletic.
Greg has scored 20 goals in his 200 games.
He made his debut for the Broch at home to Strathspey Thistle on 30th July 2016. His first goal was in a 2-2 draw against Cove Rangers in the League at Christie Park, Huntly.
Well done Greg and keep them coming.
MATCH CENTRE
Official Travel Partner of Fraserburgh FC
Kieran Simpson once again repels a Brechin attack
Photo: Barry Walker
FRASERBURGH
Back Row: Dean Cowie, Aidan Sopel, Jamie Beagrie, Josh Bolton, Bryan Hay, Logan Watt, Connor Wood, Ross Aitken, Alex Mair, Sarah Robertson
Front Row: Derek Strachan, Greg Buchan, Joshua Hawkins, Paul Young, James McKay, Eddie Flinn
FRASERBURGHFC2024/25
Hay, Sam Inglis, Kieran Simpson, Joe Barbour, Lewis Davidson, Sean Butcher,
James Duthie, Willie West, Mark Cowie, Jake Garden, Scott Barbour, Flynn
head of youth
It’s great to be back in competitive action and for the players the busy schedule, although tough on the body, is enjoyableandwhatweallwant.
A good pre-season for the Youth Team despite the U18s finishing off with a heavy defeat in a friendly match against one of the new teams in our league, Westdyke.
MATTHEW WEST Matthew West
Our first competitive match of the season was a better performance and goals from Theo Watt, Evan Anderson and Billy Jones helped us pick up 3 points on the road at Dyce.
Next up for the U18s is a home match against Westdyke. This will no doubt be, as we are aware from a fortnight ago - a really tough match at the Bellslea.
The U21s League campaign was due to start August 5th butthiswaspushedbackbya fortnight. So this game was on Monday 19th with a trip to Inverurie Locos. It was goals galore at Harlaw Park as the Broch edged it 4-3. a game wheretheytooktheleadthen produced a terrific comeback to overturn a 3-1 deficit. Great character from the group on the night to get a win. Next up its a home match vs Huntly for the U21s on Monday 2nd September.
On Sunday 11th August we held our FFC Youth Golf Day. 24 golfers (up for debate...) took part in what was a fun day with nice weather and a good meal afterwards. Angus Robbie was the winner on the day as he swept up net and scratch prizes. Harvey Mackie would take the wooden spoon - a fair effort. Dean Cowie’s birdie at the 4th was the nearest to pin winner. Corin McDermott hit the longest drive on the last - a
great way to conclude our pre-season as our League started the following night.
Our U18s were given a bye in the Scottish Cup following last year’s efforts and will enter in the 3rd round stage.
Jake Garden and Flynn McKay have done well in the early period of the season with the first team. We hope they give their young peers motivation and keep driving themselves on, learning from the experience alongside them and every opportunity they earn.
Our loan players are busy settling in to new clubs. In next month’s edition we will have some more extensive info on how these guys are
doing out across local Junior teams.
As the schools return from summer leave the Aberdeen & District Juvenile season will restart at the weekend. On behalf of the Club’s management team I want to wishallouryoungplayersand our partner clubs - all the best for the upcoming season.
Keep an eye out on the Club’s social media pages or the Club website where you will see all our fixtures.
We hope to see you along supporting the Club’s youngsters from the terraces.
Take care - Matthew
FFC Youth Players and Coaches at our recent Golf Day
development TEAMS
FIRST TEAM FIXTURES & STATS 24/25
MATCH CENTRE
MATCHDAY MASCOTS
Our mascot for the opening round of the SPFL Trust Trophy against Hearts was Levi Skinner who plays for Invercairn Juniors and his favourite player is Logan Watt.
Finally for this edition, our mascots for the Forfar Athletic match were Miller and Mayson Watt who both play for Link Up and who both list Logan Watt as their favourite player.
We then welcomed brothers Bobby and Jackson Urquhart for our match with Brechin City. Both lads play for Mintlaw BC and Longside Thistle. Bobby’s favourite player is Bryan Hay, while Jackson’s is Willie West.
Click or Double Tap for FFC in the Community Facebook page
In a departure from our usual set-up, the Brechin City match saw a group of individual children come together to participate in our Matchday Club. They were a great bunch of kids, all very skillful and got along very well.
Also a big thanks go to Paul Roche, Cameron Batty and Scott Murray who have joined our matchday team!
Over the past few weeks, we have been back to playing our Highland League games, the first game of the season was away to Wick Academy, we had chances to score early on in the game but none were taken, Wick took the lead in the 30th minute, it was a day for the Broch to forget as they dominated possession but failed to produce any goals, Wick secured the points with a breakaway goal in the last minute of normal time.
Three Broch players made their debuts. Jake Garden and Liam Strachan started the game, and Flynn McKay came on as a second half sub. Jake and Flynn starred for the U18’s and U21’s last season while Liam returned to Bellslea from Broch United having played for them last season. Congratulations to all three and we look forward to seeing them in many more games in the Black & White of the Broch.
Next match was at home to Hearts B in the SPFL Trust Trophy 1st round, we went a goal down in the first half, Sean Butcher volleyed a Connor Wood freekick into the net in the 73rd minute to level the scoring, there were no more goals in the game and the match went to penalties, both teams had a penalty saved in the first round of 5 to keep the teams level, Hearts missed their 6th and Bryan Hay calmly slotted ours home to send the Broch into the second round for the first time, where we would face Forfar Athletic later in the month.
Deveronvale were our first opponents at home in the League, the Broch took the lead in the 8th minute, Jamie Beagrie fired a diagonal ball out to Connor Wood, he played a first time pass into the path of Scott Barbour, Ethan Hopkinson in goal comes out to block the shot, Scott slots the ball past the keeper into the net with his right foot, we should have been out of sight by halftime but failed to score any more goals, the Vale levelled in the second half with a glancing header, despite pressing for a winner the game finished up all square.
On the Wednesday night we were off to Victoria Park Buckie, the players made a guard of honour for the League Champions who were presented with their flag for winning the League, Buckie started the game well and went ahead in the 13th minute, the Broch levelled in the 30th minute, Connor Wood passed the ball to Aidan Sopel at the corner of the 18 yard box, Aidan cleverly chipped the ball over Ridgers into the net with his right foot, we went ahead in the 40th minute, Connor Wood fired a free kick from the left into the box, Kieran Simpson rose and headed the ball towards goal, Scott Barbour shielded the ball from the keeper, he then turned and slotted the ball home with his right foot from 4 yards out, we went in at half-time a goal ahead, the Broch totally dominated the second half and should have had a few more goals, Kieran Simpson blasted in a penalty in the 82nd minute to secure all 3 points after Aidan Sopel was taken down in the box.
above Jimmy Young in the all-time list of Fraserburgh FC appearance makers, he is now second only to Goalkeeper and fellow Hall-ofFamer Billy Gordon, this also meant that Willie now holds the record for an outfield player with 684 appearances to date, all at the Supporters club would like to congratulate and thank Willie for all he has given to the club over the years he has been with us.
The tough games keep coming as we were home to Brechin City on the Saturday, it was a very tight game with very few chances created by either team, a draw with no goals scored was a fair result at the end of the match.
The under 18’s kicked off the start of their league with an away trip to Dyce on the Monday night, in a tight first half the Broch took the lead from the penalty spot in the 11th minute after Billy Jones was taken down in the box, Theo Watt scored with a strong shot which the keeper got a hand to but was unable to keep out, Evan Anderson doubled the Broch advantage in the 62nd minute, a corner was swung in from the right, the ball was cleared off the line and Evan was first to react and stab the ball home, Dyce were back in the game in the 75th minute, Liam Gordon was unable to save a fierce shot from 10 yards out, the Broch wrapped up the 3 points in the 85th minute, Billy Jones sprinted down the left wing, he drilled the ball low past the keeper into the bottom right hand corner of the net.
The Broch were then at home to Forfar Athletic in the SPFL Trust Trophy 2nd round, Forfar play their home games at Station Park and are presently in Division 2, the Loons took the lead in the 18th minute from a corner, the ball sneaked all the way to the far side of the box, Reekie controlled the ball then blasted it past Joe into the net, the Broch were a different team in the second half and produced a really exciting 45 minutes of football, Kieran Simpson had a penalty saved by McCallum in the Forfar goal in the 62nd minute, Scott Barbour produced a piece of pure magic to level the scores in the 75th minute, Paul Young passed the ball wide right to Greg Buchan, he chips a perfect pass over the Forfar defence, Scott runs through onto the ball and smashes a right footed shot which goes into the top left corner of the net from a tight angle, the Broch had Forfar on the rack and Connor Wood put us ahead in the 86th minute, Josh Bolton chipped a pass out to Scott Barbour on the left edge of the box, Scott beat his man and fired a bullet cross into the box, Connor headed the ball into the empty net, the Broch now have Rangers ‘B’ in the 3rd round game will is scheduled to take place on Saturday 7th or Sunday 8th of September.
Congratulations to Greg Buchan who made his 200th appearance for the Broch in the Forfar game, Greg has found the back of the net 20 times in his 200 games, he made his debut for the Broch at home to Strathspey Thistle on 30th July 2016, his first goal was in a 2-2 draw against Cove Rangers in the League at Christie Park, Huntly, all at the supporter’s club hope
that there are many more games to come and also goals to celebrate, well done Greg.
We were on our travels to Clach on Saturday the 17th August, like busses we seldom have a goalless draw then two come in the League one after another, both teams had chances to score but the keepers had a perfect day with a couple of clean sheets and the points were shared.
Good luck to the under 21’s who start their Aberdeenshire League games away to Inverurie on Monday night.
For those who are still interested, Zander Smith has scoffed his 70th match day pie to date this year, he has upped his consumption rate now we have had games midweek games.
We will be running a bus to the Turriff game on Saturday 31st August, the bus will leave the Elizabethan at 1:15pm, the cost of travel is £10 for adults and £5 for others.
We hope to be running a bus to the Rothes game on Wednesday 4th September which will leave the Elizabethan at 5:45pm, the cost of travel is £15 for adults and £10 for others.
We also hope to be running a bus to the Buckie game on Wednesday 11th September which will leave the Elizabethan at 6:15pm, the cost of travel is £10 for adults and £15 for others.
Please note that all seats on all buses must be booked by contacting Barry Walker at the supporter’s club.
We hope to attract new members to the supporter’s club as we have kept our membership and bus prices at the same cost as last year.
Non members are also very welcome to travel to games but they will have to pay an extra £2.
Our bus info page will tell you the cost and times of bus travel, we leave for home right after the final whistle.
During the win over Buckie Thistle, our Captain and Number 8 Willie West has now climbed
MATCH CENTRE
Jake Garden goes up against Forfar’s Matthew Allen during our recent SPFL Trust Trophy tie (Photo: Barry Walker)
MEET the ref Owen Lawrence
What is your job outside of football? –
Assistant Greenkeeper at Deeside Golf Club
How long have you been refereeing for?
I started refereeing 9 years ago at the age of 16 when I passed the Referee Course in August 2015.
First match you can remember refereeing? –
My very first match was Aberdeen U12s vs Rangers in my game under guidance. With my first 11a-side game being AR2 at Spain Park between Banks O’ Dee FC and Ellon United JFC.
Why did you start refereeing? -
When I was growing up watching my brother play football, I always took an interest in what the referees were doing at the games, so when I turned 16, I immediately said to my dad that I was going to sign up for the course. However, I was still playing at the time for Aberdeen FC Youth Academy so I could only commit to Saturdays at the time. Therefore, I ran the line in the
juniors on the Saturday and played for Aberdeen on the Sunday. I was then let go by Aberdeen and went to play U18 Juvenile Football for Banchory Boys Club, however I soon realised that I had fell out of love of playing football, so I thought I would give all my attention to my referee career.
Favourite ground to officiate at?
My favourite Highland League grounds to officiate at would be Bellslea Park. I enjoy the atmosphere that the Fraserburgh fans create, even if they are shouting and bawling at me. The pitch is also in very good condition every time I visit.
Best refereeing moment? –
Being promoted to Category 3 would be high up on the list, but my biggest achievement would be being appointed as an Assistant Referee on the Highland League Cup Final in 2023 at Bellslea Park.
If you were given the chance to create or amend a rule, what would choose? –
I would probably choose the offside law. I quite like the idea of the day light rule, I think it would make it easier for Assistant Referees but would also make the players think more about complaining about offside decisions.
Is there anything at all you think we as clubs could change to encourage more people to become referees? –
The biggest thing at the moment is social media. Clubs, in my opinion, should use their social media channels to promote their local referee association. This could be sharing the online course which
the Scottish FA have introduced and also new class details which would hopefully encourage more supporters to take up the whistle and give it a go themselves. We are always looking for new referees!
Any pre match rituals or superstitions? -
Nothing major but I always have to put my left sock on before my right sock and my left boot on before my right boot. I also must have the same pre match meal before every match - A Chicken & Pasta dish, some fruit and a protein yoghurt.
One piece of advice to a new referee? –
I would encourage anyone who has thought or is currently thinking about signing up to do it. It’s a great opportunity to keep fit and to progress through the leagues. The social aspect is fantastic, and you can earn an extra bit of money in the process. I had offers to carry on playing football in the Highland League after I had left Aberdeen so to now be refereeing in the league shows there is always an opportunity to stay involved in football at a high level.
Best pieces of advice you were given? –
Don’t worry about what people think or are doing, Just do what you are confident in doing and you’ll be fine.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about yourself? –
When I played, I was the worst disciplined player when it came to shouting at referees about every decision, so now I am on the other side, I can fully understand why I was always being cautioned!
MEMORY MATCH HOW THE BROCHERS PILED ON THE AGONY
Peterhead fielded English at inside right on loan from Aberdeen FC.
In the opening minute Rennie had to resort to fouling Esslemont as he made to burst through.
Following this Rennie stepped in just in time to deflect a goal ward shot wide from Hunter.
Fraserburgh had set a fast pace and it was Peterhead’s defence that was being fully stretched.
The pressure paid off in the 13th minute when Summers failed to clear, BOWIE pounced, cut in behind Sievwright and then slipped the ball to Hunter who made no mistake from close in.
Beattie was shown a Yellow card by referee Edwards after a bad foul on Cardno.
English was trying to get some cooperation from his fellow forwards and in one challenge he beat the Fraserburgh keeper to a high ball, headed the ball down but he had no support up with him.
The Broch forwards were making light of the heavy ground and the speed of their wing men had Peterhead on the run.
In the 26th minute they were two up. Duthie robbed Summers and quickly transferred to Hunter who tore downfield and opened the way for DUTHIE to plant the ball in the back of the net.
The fat was in the fire two minutes later when Noble gave a delightful pass to HUNTER who had the simple job of getting behind the ball and blasting it
into the net.
Six minutes later from a Fraserburgh free kick the ball ricocheted off a Peterhead defender to BOWIE who promptly banged it into the net for goal number four.
For the spectators conditions were miserable and the rain kept a steady pour and the same applied to Peterhead as their rivals kept up a steady goal barrage.
ESSLEMONT made it five in 39 minutes. Sievwright went up field to try his luck at a Peterhead corner and left his charge wide open.
A long clearance from the corner-kick found NOBLE who burst through the fullbacks and gave Connell no chance with a low ball to the far corner of the net. Rival supporters from Fraserburgh who seemed to outnumber local supporters chanted “easy“ - “easy”“more“ - “more” and just to keep them happy Bowie obliged with another goal in 44 minutes.
HALF TIME Peterhead 0 Fraserburgh 6 Fraserburgh resumed spot on and any fears that they might have shot their bolt were soon dispelled. Connell who was being overworked made a daring save in the first minute but had to admit defeat in 50 minutes when Newlands was allowed to carry the ball up field without challenge and sent over a high ball, it appeared Peterhead assumed there was no danger but a wily NOBLE appeared from nowhere to back-head a brilliant goal.
So it went on and six minutes later from a midfield free kick BOWIE, lying unmarked, gave a demonstration of how to head from almost ground level, this was number eight.
Just to show that they had more up their sleeve the Broch substituted Gammack for Cardno in the 58th minute and Sharp for McCann in 71 minutes.
There was no pity in their hearts for their downtrodden weary opponents and just to make a night of it, BOWIE added to the score in 82 minutes and followed by another goal from HUNTER in 86 minutes.
FULL
TIME Peterhead 0 Fraserburgh 10
Peterhead – Connell, Ewen, Rennie, Summers, Sievwright, Coutts, McKenzie, English, Watson, Cheyne & Beattie.
Sub – Cameron.
Fraserburgh – Forsyth, Cardno, Newlands, Stephen, McCann, Duthie, Fraser, Noble, Esslemont, Hunter & Bowie.
Subs – Gammack & Sharp.
Some who were not there to witness the debacle might complain that Peterhead have hardly had a mention in this report but if it is any consolation I could say that, had it not been for keeper Connell making other daring saves at great risk to himself, the score could have been more. The keeper had no chance with the balls that beat him, in most cases he was left alone to deal with the opponents.
Research: Mike McLean
FAN FOCUS
HAZEL DEANS
WHEN DID YOU START WATCHING FRASERBURGH AND WHY? CAN YOU REMEMBER YOUR FIRST GAME.
I fell in love with football at a very young age. My neighbour, Gordon Clark, would take his daughter Yvonne and myself along to Pittodrie. (Although he was a Rangers supporter).
Yvonne and I were keen to watch the Broch play, but being so young, we decided the best thing to do was to go to the “Granda Swings” and watch the game from the wall.
I can’t remember who the Broch were playing (it was so long ago) Peterhead? Caley?
But I do remember seeing a very young Finlay Noble at the games.
WHICH PART OF THE GROUND DO YOU GO IN AND WHY? ANY FRIENDS YOU WANT TO MENTION?
Over the years, I met a lot of Fraserburgh supporters attending Away matches. Arthur Buchan, Willie Duthie and Sammy Reid (to name just a few) would always come for a chat. They became good friends, and we watched many games behind the dugouts. I really enjoyed their company at the games – there was so much laughter.
My sister, Kathleen is also a staunch supporter, along with her two sons. When I can, I meet up with them in the main stand.
BEST GAME AND WHY?
In 2002 my colleague, Steven Duff asked if I would be attending the Fraserburgh match that evening. Cove Rangers were playing Fraserburgh. Steven was refereeing the game and should the Broch win, they would become Highland League
Champions. Without hesitation, I went to the match and never looked back.
It was a very emotional night with Fraserburgh beating Cove 2-1 to win the Highland League … The first time in 60 years!!
WORST GAME AND WHY?
All games are disappointing to lose, but one game that stands out was a 5-1 thrashing away to Rothes. That was many years ago, probably around 2006, but I still remember the defeat.
FAVOURITE FRASERBURGH PLAYER OF ALL TIME AND WHY?
My favourite player of all time is Michael Stephen – a very talented player. Certainly, good enough to play at a higher level.
FAVOURITE CURRENT PLAYER?
It has to be Scott Barbour – He has now overtaken Michael Stephen’s goal scoring record and is an exciting player to watch.
IF YOU COULD SIGN ONE HFL PLAYER FOR THE BROCH WHO WOULD IT BE?
No one from the HFL - but would welcome Ryan Sargent back.
OUR ALL TIME FRASERBURGH X11? is
This is impossible – I couldn't select only 11 players. But I did enjoy watching the “2002” team play.
THINGS YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT THE CLUB?
Devoted staff and loyal fans.
Finlay Noble is such a credit to the club. Being a young, loyal supporter, progressing to the “top”. He has dedicated so much to the club.
The many directors and committee members who work so hard to ensure the Bellslea is a great place to visit. And finally, the work of the Fraserburgh Supporters club who looked after me so well.
You are simply the best!!
FAVOURITE HIGHLAND LEAGUE GROUND APART FROM BELLSLEA?
Victoria Park, Buckie.
ONE THING YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT FOOTBALL?
It would be nice to hear a little less abusive language especially towards the ref and linesmen when we are trying to encourage families and young kids to the games.
ANY OTHER CLUB YOU SUPPORT?
Manchester United. When I can get tickets!!
WHO’S GOING TO WIN THE LEAGUE TITLE THIS SEASON?
Obviously Fraserburgh!
DIRECTORY
Telephone
Highland League 1932/33, 1937/38, 2001/02, 2021/22
Highland League Cup 1958/59, 2005/06
Qualifying Cup 1957/58, 1995/96, 2006/07
Aberdeenshire Cup 1910/11, 1937/38, 1955/56, 1963/64, 1972/73, 1975/76, 1996/97, 2012/13, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2019/20, 2020/21, 2022/23
Aberdeen Charity Cup 1911/12, 1913/14, 1921/22, 1926/27
Aberdeenshire Shield 1991/92, 1993/94, 1995/96, 1996/97, 1999/2000, 2011/12, 2015/16, 2019/20, 2022/23
Fleming Shield 1919/20
Bells League Cup 1972/73, 1973/74, 1975/76, 1976/77, 1978/79
Aberdeenshire League 1994/95, 1995/96, 1997/98, 2022/23
Highland Youth League 1992/93, 1993/94, 2001/02, 2003/04
Broch Lottery
The July Lottery was drawn by match referee, Owen Lawrence, prior to the recent visit of Deveronvale. 1st Prize £300: Finlay Noble
2nd Prize £100: Lisa Watson
Congratulations to our winners and many thanks for your continued support.
NOTE - We will no longer be sending out emails to everyone advising of the draw results, but will continue to update the web page and our Social Media Pages.
Congratulations to all our winners and many thanks for you continued support.
If you would like to take part please request a form by emailing stephen.sim@fraserburghfc.co.uk and we will send you a mandate for you to return completed to the club either by post or in person.
Payment methods;
• Standing Order of 12 months at £5
• Standing Order of 4 Quarterly payments of £15
• Standing Order of 2 Half Yearly payments of £30
• Standing Order of 1 Annual Payment of £60
• Cash or cheque payment payable to Fraserburgh FC Development Fund.
Winning numbers will also be posted on Twitter and Facebook.
The allocated number will be yours for the duration of your subscription.
