Bellslea Bulletin - Issue 7

BELLSLEA BULLETIN

THE BROCH ONLINE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 7: SEPTEMBER 2023

Broch Directory

Fraserburgh Football Club, Bellslea Park, Seaforth Street, Fraserburgh, AB43 9BB

Telephone 01346 518444

Email fraserburghfc@highlandleague.com

Website www.thebroch.online

Address Book

Chairman/Secretary FINLAY NOBLE

Vice Chairman

Directors

Contents

GEORGE THOM

JAMES A ADAMS

JAMES G ADAMS

ROBERT COWE

DAVID MILNE

EWAN MOWAT

JASON NICOL

Treasurer STEPHEN SIM

Webmasters FINLAY NOBLE

Committee

MARK SIMPSON

GAVIN BRUCE

ELIZABETH DUNBAR

STUART ELLIS

FRANK GOODALL

WILLIAM McKENZIE

STEPHEN SIM

MARK SIMPSON

IAN SMITH

NICHOLAS FORMAN

FFC in the CommunityCLAIRE BATTY

Magazine Contributors

GRAEME NOBLE

MARK SIMPSON

FINLAY NOBLE

BARRY WALKER

DUNCAN BROWN

MIKE McLEAN

STEVE DICKIE

8 The Manager

4 The Chairman

Football Department

Manager

Assistant Manager

Coaches

MARK COWIE

JAMES DUTHIE

ALEX MAIR

16 The Head of Youth

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

Cover Star

Our front cover this month features Paul Young, now in his seventh season with the Club.

Paul started his career with Peterhead, making his first team debut in League One, before loan moves took him to Huntly then Turriff United. A permanent move to the Haughs saw Paul establish himself as a leading Highland League midfielder, picking up two Aberdeenshire Shield winners medals during his five seasons with Turriff. Since joining the Broch in 2017, Paul is approaching 220 appearances and has collected a further four cup winners medals in his time at Bellslea. In winning the Highland League title with the Broch, Paul has now emulated his father Jimmy who did so in 2001/02.

12 The Captain

46

Question & Answer

THE CHAIRMAN

FINLAY NOBLE

Welcome to issue two of our Monthly Magazine for season

2023-24 and I hope all our readers are well.

That’s the first month of the season in already and I think it is fair to say that our League results have been decent and there were no surprises we faced that we didn’t expect. The Buckie Thistle match at Bellslea was disappointing that we didn’t take anything from it and it was a good example that it is fine margins that will decide the outcome of the championship race. We had a couple of good chances early on but didn’t

take them and we allowed Buckie to convert their two chances to leave us with an uphill task in the second half. We pretty much dominated that but couldn’t capitalise on that. What we need to remember is that Buckie are a very good side and proved that on the day.

There were some disappointing scenes at the end of the game, which as a club we don’t like to see and certainly don’t condone. It simply isn’t acceptable. However, I will always defend our management and players when I think it is deserved and, on this occasion, I will accept

that our players were severely provoked. I will leave it at that other than to say our footage backs up my view and we certainly wouldn’t go down the route of publicly singling out an opposition player. If other clubs are happy for their employees to do that then that is up to them but as I say, our footage clearly shows what happened.

The other games against Lossiemouth, Inverurie Locos and Deveronvale in the League went as we had hoped, maybe better than we had hoped at Locos, but it proves that nothing can be taken for granted. We have already seen results all around the league this season that nobody can go into a game thinking they will get the three points. We shouldn’t complain about that, as that is what makes our league so good. I said in the last issue of the magazine that I didn’t think a club would be able to go on huge winning runs and I stand by that view, and nothing so far has made me think otherwise.

We did have an impressive 9-0 victory away to Deveronvale in the Highland League Cup, which for all those who attended the game at Bellslea in August 2001 has been well worth the wait.

We have a busy month ahead with a potential 11 games over the course of September involving Broch teams. As it stands, only one of those is at the Bellslea, an Aberdeenshire League (U21) game against Formartine Utd on Monday night. We should know shortly who will face in the Scottish Cup on 23rd and hopefully we come out of the hat with a home tie. Having no home games on a Saturday for 9 weeks, while at the same time having to pay bus costs for those 9 weeks, isn’t great for cash flow but these are the things we are faced with from time to time and have to accept it.

Our defence of the Aberdeenshire League has got off to a great start with two consecutive 5-0 victories so well done to the lads involved. These, as well as the U18 games, are well worth coming along on a Monday evening to watch the players of the future. Entry is free and you are almost certainly guaranteed goals and the games are usually good entertainment.

Enjoy the magazine and as always, feel free to suggest any articles you would like to see included.

Come awa the Broch Finlay

Highland League Fixtures 2023/24

Saturday July 29 2023

Fraserburgh v Lossiemouth

Saturday August 5 2023

Inverurie Loco Works v Fraserburgh

Saturday August 12 2023

Fraserburgh v Buckie Thistle

Saturday August 19 2023

Fraserburgh v Deveronvale

Saturday September 2 2023

Clachnacuddin v Fraserburgh

Saturday September 16 2023

Wick Academy v Fraserburgh

Wednesday September 27 2023

Keith v Fraserburgh

Saturday September 30 2023

Forres Mechanics v Fraserburgh

Wednesday October 4 2023

Fraserburgh v Formartine United

Saturday October 7 2023

Huntly v Fraserburgh

Saturday October 21 2023

Fraserburgh v Brora Rangers

Saturday November 4 2023

Banks o’ Dee v Fraserburgh

Saturday November 11 2023

Fraserburgh v Nairn County

Saturday November 18 2023

Rothes v Fraserburgh

Saturday November 25 2023

Brechin City v Fraserburgh

Saturday December 2 2023

Fraserburgh v Strathspey Thistle

Saturday December 9 2023

Lossiemouth v Fraserburgh

Saturday December 16 2023

Fraserburgh v Inverurie Loco Works

Saturday December 23 2023

Buckie Thistle v Fraserburgh

Saturday December 30 2023

Fraserburgh v Keith

Saturday January 6 2024

Deveronvale v Fraserburgh

Saturday January 13 2024

Fraserburgh v Clachnacuddin

Saturday January 20 2024

Turriff United v Fraserburgh

Saturday January 27 2024

Fraserburgh v Wick Academy

Saturday February 3 2024

Fraserburgh v Forres Mechanics

Saturday February 10 2024

Formartine United v Fraserburgh

Saturday February 17 2024

Fraserburgh v Huntly

Saturday March 2 2024

Brora Rangers v Fraserburgh

Saturday March 9 2024

Fraserburgh v Banks o’ Dee

Saturday March 16 2024

Nairn County v Fraserburgh

Saturday March 23 2024

Fraserburgh v Rothes

Saturday April 6 2024

Fraserburgh v Brechin City

Saturday April 13 2024

Strathspey Thistle v Fraserburgh

To be rearranged: Fraserburgh v Turriff United (postponed due to HFL Cup R2)

THE MANAGER MARK COWIE

As I write this the team sit on 9 points from a possible 12 and have also progressed in to the quarter finals of the League Cup which points towards a decent start.

After a pleasing pre-season, we were all desperate to get going on our first league match at home to Lossiemouth. In truth it wasn’t the greatest game and didn’t start too well with us going 1-0 down inside the first few minutes. Without playing anywhere near our best, we managed to get back on track with half time substitute Sean Butcher scoring a hat trick to give us a 3-1 win.

That’s the most important thing of the first game, to get the points and of course we will play better

but we were off and running.

Our second fixture was a tricky away game to Inverurie Locos who had spent a bit of money on their bid to challenge for the league title. I asked the players to start the game properly and they did and some. It was a strange thing pending fifteen minutes where I felt Inverurie had the ball more but we were absolutely ruthless and found ourselves 3-0 up in thirteen minutes I think.

The way we set up allowed me to play Scott Barbour, Sean Butcher and Ryan Sargent in the team and it worked as by half time we were 5-0 up with Sean getting a brace and singles from Ryan and Scott plus an own goal. We continued to control the game and finished

winning 7-0.

I don’t look too much into these kind of games because in my eyes we can and will play better but we were clinical in front of goal and kept a clean sheet which was good.

Third game in was Buckie Thistle at home which was labelled as a title decider despite being so early.

Before the game I told the team that nothing would be decided by that game but we would need to be at our best. It wasn’t the best conditions with a strong wind spoiling the majority of the game. Over the 90 minutes I was honest in that I felt both teams were poor and nowhere near what they are capable of.

Unfortunately for us Buckie were slightly better on the day and took the chances that came their way whilst we didn’t. We lost the game 3-1 and I’m disappointed in the manner of the defeat but we have plenty time to try and make amends.

know we would have to get to another level.

That all changed in the reverse fixture in the league cup. Again we started fast and scored after a couple of minutes. We continued to play at a high tempo and passed the ball really well creating numerous chances. In the end we won 9-0 and to be fair it could have been more as their keeper had some great saves on the day. This performance was more like what I want to see.

We bossed the game from start to finish and moved the ball really well. Paul Young in particular put in one of the best displays for a midfielder I think I have seen. It was a great game for us and everyone played a part.

There is a long way to go and we have quite a few away games coming up which will be difficult but I’m hopeful if we can put in performances like the one at Princess Royal Park then we have a great chance of having a good season.

9

We then faced a double header against Deveronvale which is never easy. Our league game was first and again we did okay but still weren’t hitting the heights I know we can. We managed to get the three points with a 3-2 victory but to challenge for trophies we

Here’s hoping we can keep a run going up until Christmas but we know it will be very difficult as no game is a given. After 5 games we have all dropped points which shows the competitiveness of the league as a whole.

CLACHNACUDDIN v. FRASERBURGH MATCH PREVIEW

Breedon Highland League | Saturday 2nd September 2023 | Grant Street Park, Inverness

Manager: Jordan MacDonald

Captain: Martin Callum

HFL Record Last 5 seasons*

Highland League results since 2015/16:

2022/23

Wed 5 Apr Clachnacuddin 1-1 Fraserburgh

Sat 8 Oct Fraserburgh 5-0 Clachnacuddin

2021/22

Sat 12 Feb Fraserburgh 7-0 Clachnacuddin

Sat 2 Oct Clachnacuddin 1-2 Fraserburgh

2020/21

*No fixtures (Covid)

*Covid-interupted seasons not included

Top Scorer 22/23: James Anderson (14)

HFL 2023/24 so far:

Sat 19th August Turriff United 4-1 Clachnacuddin

Wed 16th August Wick Academy 3-0 Clachnacuddin

Sat 12th August Clachnacuddin 2-2 Deveronvale

Sat 5th August Keith 1-1 Clachnacuddin

Sat 29th July Clachnacuddin 2-3 Buckie Thistle

Broch’s all-time record v. Clach

2019/20

Sat 10 Aug Fraserburgh 6-0 Clachnacuddin

*No away fixture (Covid)

2018/19

Sat 6 Apr Clachnacuddin 2-3 Fraserburgh

Sat 15 Sep Fraserburgh 3-0 Clachnacuddin

2017/18

Wed 14 Mar Clachnacuddin 1-2 Fraserburgh

Wed 25 Oct Fraserburgh 4-0 Clachnacuddin

2016/17

Sat 15 Apr Clachnacuddin 3-2 Fraserburgh

Sat 12 Nov Fraserburgh 3-3 Clachnacuddin

2015/16

Sat 12 Mar Fraserburgh 4-1 Clachnacuddin

Wed 9 Sep Clachnacuddin 1-2 Fraserburgh

Record win: 8-0 at Bellslea Park, League, 5th May 1990

Record defeat: 2-8 at Grant Street Park, League, 31st Aug 1963

THE CAPTAIN WILLIE WEST

Hey folks, on the whole we are content with how we have started the season with a lot more to be positive about than negative.

It was important to start the season off with 3 points against Lossie and although we maybe didn’t play to our best we did enough to get the win (3-1). Lossie also impressed us and it wasn’t too much of a surprise to see them earn a draw against Brora the other week as they have some quality players that can hurt you and Frank McGettrick has them very well organised.

Next up was Locos and although we went up there with confidence we have had some very tough games against them last season. I thought Mark and Bax got it spot on with our tactics but our forward players were ruthless that day (7-0). However, I

am certain that Locos will improve on their league form and the return tie at the Broch will a lot tougher that what it was at Harlaw.

The result against Buckie was disappointing (1-3). We didn’t do enough to earn anything from the game, although there were moments that I felt didn’t go our way.

The back to back wins against Deveronvale ensured we maintain a strong league position and go into the 2nd round of the Highland League Cup. The wind made the first encounter a bit of a leveller but we should have seen the game out a bit better (3-2). Most important aspect was getting the 3 points but we know we will need to improve on our performance levels.

Princess Royal Park was in the best

condition I have seen for years and I think for the first time this season we played with very little wind! No excuses not to play football. And the team did that to great effect and I would say our best performance of the season thus far. Not a bad start to our away record following the game at Locos.

The first part of the season has already seen Fig reached yet another personal milestone. His hattrick against the Vale allowed him to earn his 300 Highland League-level goals and is a phenomenal achievement and just proves he is one of the best all-time scorers in the Highland League. It was great to see young Rio and Sav witness and celebrate with him. Well done Scott, still time to reach 400!

I must mention the start Sean Butcher has made to the season with 9 goals already. His eye for goal is second to none and it certainly helps the team when we are converting opportunities. A hat-trick already

against Locos away being his highlight thus far.

Sticking with forward players it was pleasing to see Zane get his first start and goal of the season following his 5 goals with the Under 21s!

However, it really has been a great team effort as can be seen from the Management Teams use of the squad and the five substitute role. The rotation has kept pretty much everyone match fit and ensured stiff competition for every position. I think Joe might be the only player to have played all minutes thus far, which is very unusual so early in the season, with only Hayser and Greg also to have started all games.

The players are in good spirits following the start of the season and looking forward to the next few games on the road to hopefully continue our good away form, one game at a time…

Willie

FRASERBURGH RNLI BENEFIT FROM CELTIC MATCH FUNDRAISER

The recent Fraserburgh FC v Celtic match raised over £13,500 for Fraserburgh Lifeboat Funds.

Fulltime Fraserburgh Lifeboat

Coxswain/Mechanic Vic Sutherland went along to the Bellslea Park on Monday 31st July to receive a cheque for £13,500 from Fraserburgh FC Chairman Finlay Noble, just before training.

In April 1970 the great Celtic team of that era played a benefit game at the Bellslea against Highland League Fraserburgh to raise funds for the 1970 Fraserburgh Lifeboat Disaster Fund.

Fraserburgh Lifeboat had capsized in heavy seas three months earlier in January 1970 with the loss of five crewmen and the Celtic game, 8 days before they played in that year’s European Cup Final, hugely benefitted the disaster fund and has never been forgotten in the town.

It was a huge gesture by Celtic and went beyond football.

In 2020 on the 50th anniversary of the 1970 Fraserburgh Lifeboat Disaster

Celtic announced that they would play another match against Fraserburgh FC in memory of the Fraserburgh Lifeboat crewmen who died and the match would raise funds for Fraserburgh Lifeboat.

The Covid pandemic meant that the match had to be postponed but Celtic never forgot and got in touch with Fraserburgh FC in May of this year and the Fraserburgh v Celtic match was hurriedly arranged and took place on the 1st of July 2023.

It was a great occasion and Fraserburgh FC did a great job of arranging the match.

The families of the 1970 Fraserburgh Lifeboat Crew were invited as special guests and watched the game from their seats in the grandstand.

Just before the kick off both Fraserburgh and Celtic teams lined up and applauded members of the 2023 Fraserburgh Lifeboat on to the pitch.

Players from the 1970 Fraserburgh team were also applauded onto the pitch with their names being shouted from supporters in the ground for the

first time in years and years.

Everyone on the pitch, present and past Fraserburgh FC players, Celtic players, and 2023 RNLI Fraserburgh Lifeboat volunteers formed a circle and observed a minutes silence, when rockets were fired, in memory of the 1970 crew.

The closely contested game ended in a narrow victory for Celtic after penalties.

“It was a great honour for the club to be part of the event, which allowed the community to help and be part of the support to the lifeboat”, said Fraserburgh FC Chairman Finlay Noble. “It makes us very proud as a club to be able to facilitate that”.

“Just to echo what Findlay said“, said Fraserburgh Lifeboat Full-time Coxswain/Mechanic Vic Sutherland.

“It was just overwhelming the support we’ve had from the community. For the football match to take place 53 years later in memory of the 1970 crew and for Celtic and the Broch Football Club to still go to the effort to organise the match in memory of the 1970 crew is just fantastic. We really can’t thank them enough”.

All at Fraserburgh Lifeboat would like to thank all at Fraserburgh FC and Celtic FC for making this happen and showing us so much support.

Every penny raised is going to saving lives at sea.

Pictured: Fraserburgh Lifeboat’s Vic Sutherland receives the cheque from Finlay Noble and the Fraserburgh FC squad

THE HEAD OF YOUTH

MATTHEW WEST 16

Our under 21s started off the new season with a convincing win over Huntly. The main positive on the night was a clean sheet for a youthful back four who had an average age of 16.

Our second under 21s match of the season was on the road as we made the journey to play Dyce at Ian Mair Park. Dean and the lads once again got a clean sheet win - a great start to the new campaign.

We hope by having a good age range

across the overall youth structure and striking the right balance with our 21s squad we can maximise the learning experience for the younger players who hugely benefit from playing alongside first team players in these games.

Our loan players have all settled in well across the local Junior clubs. It’s always a busy period for Junior players with the Grill League Cup group stage games. Plenty of midweek games and, with the composition of these groups, many of these are exciting local derbies.

These fixtures have been a great opportunity for the coaches and management to go out and watch games, a chance to encourage these young guys as they continue to develop with us.

We are eagerly awaiting the start of the under 18s season which will begin with a home game versus Dyce on 28th August.

Our youth captain Adam Henderson has recently got the all clear from the physio to return to training following a long and challenging time out after a nasty leg break last season. This is a huge boost ahead of the new campaign.

Over the course of the summer, we have worked to prepare the squad with many new faces and are excited to see how they get on when the competitive matches start.

A great positive for several members of our group who also represent Fraserburgh Link Up 2008s was their recent success at the Edinburgh Cup. The team won their section

before going on to beat Bryne FK of Norway in the Final.

As the summer holidays come to an end, we will this week re-start our Foundation Phase youth group. This allows us to further develop local youngsters as part of our ongoing commitment to provide a strong pathway into our first team.

On Friday 25th August we held an FFC Development Golf Competition which was a great success with players, coaches and the club’s management playing at Fraserburgh Golf Club's Rosehill course before enjoying a team meal. The winning Team on the day was Fraser Stewart, Kai Benson, Max Wiseman & Ricky Milne.

We are looking forward to the U18 Scottish Cup as we travel to Keith on Wednesday 13th September in the 2nd round.

Our games are always well supported and exciting - we hope to see you down on a Monday night to encourage our youngsters.

Thanks - Matthew

WICK ACADEMY v. FRASERBURGH MATCH PREVIEW

Breedon Highland League | Saturday 16th September 2023 | Harmsworth Park, Wick

Manager: Gary Manson

Captain: Alan Farquhar

HFL Record Last 5 seasons*

Highland League results since 2015/16:

2022/2023

Sat 04 Mar Wick Academy 0-6 Fraserburgh

Sat 06 Aug Fraserburgh 3-0 Wick Academy

2021/2022

Sat 26 Mar Fraserburgh 5-0 Wick Academy

Sat 11 Sep Wick Academy 2-5 Fraserburgh

2020/21

*No fixtures (Covid)

16/17 8 15 8 11 23 53

*Covid-interupted seasons not included

Top Scorer 22/23: Kieran Mooney (8)

HFL 2023/24 so far:

Sat 19th August Rothes 3-0 Wick Academy

Wed 16th August Wick Academy 3-0 Clachnacuddin

Sat 5th August Wick Academy 2-2 Deveronvale

Sat 29th July Banks o’ Dee 4-0 Wick Academy

Broch’s all-time record v. Wick

2019/2020

Sat 23 Nov Wick Academy 0-2 Fraserburgh

Sat 27 Jul Fraserburgh 5-0 Wick Academy

2018/2019

Sat 19 Jan Wick Academy 2-1 Fraserburgh

Sat 01 Sep Fraserburgh 2-3 Wick Academy

2017/2018

Sat 07 Apr Wick Academy 4-0 Fraserburgh

Sat 29 Jul Fraserburgh 3-1 Wick Academy

2016/2017

Sat 18 Feb Fraserburgh 1-1 Wick Academy

Sat 08 Oct Wick Academy 0-1 Fraserburgh

2015/2016

Sat 16 Apr Fraserburgh 0-4 Wick Academy

Sat 07 Nov Wick Academy 0-0 Fraserburgh

19

Record win: 7-1 at Bellslea Park, League, 4th March 1999

Record defeat: 0-4 at Bellslea Park, League, 16th Apr 2016 0-4 at Harmsworth Park, 7th Apr 2018

MATCH ACTION

A look back at the fixtures of July and August as the Broch kick-off the League campaign along with beginning the quest for the Highland League Cup

A second half hat-trick from Sean Butcher helped Fraserburgh come from behind to defeat Lossiemouth 3-1 at Bellslea Park.

The Coasters took an early lead when Paul Young fouled Brandon Hutcheson and Dean Stewart fired a 25-yard free kick past Joe Barbour into the bottom right corner of the net.

Sean Butcher replaced Grant Campbell at the interval, and he made a huge impact netting the equaliser from 11 yards out after Kieran Simpson had nodded down Scott Barbour’s cross after 57 minutes. Nine minutes later he notched his second tapping home another Barbour cross, and

he claimed his hat-trick from the penalty spot on 77 minutes after Lewis McAndrew had brought down Ryan Sargent inside the penalty area.

Broch boss Mark Cowie said “I said to the players before the game that with the new rule of five substitutions being allowed to be made, the squad is more important than ever. You might be disappointed not to feature in the first eleven, but you need use that as motivation to make a difference when you come on. That’s what Sean did, he got three goals, but his general play was very good as well and he got us up the park more.”

Full Time: Fraserburgh 3 Lossiemouth 1

Sean Butcher wheels away after levelling matters

Fraserburgh: Joe Barbour, Bryan Hay, Kieran Simpson, Paul Young, William West, Ryan Sargent (Zane Laird 88), Scott Barbour (Aidan Sopel 71), Connor Wood (Logan Watt 71), Greg Buchan (Josh Bolton 88), Grant Campbell (Sean Butcher 46), Ross Aitken.

Subs not used: Lewis Davidson, Ryan Cowie, Edward Flinn.

Goalscorers: Sean Butcher (57, 66, 77 (pen)).

Lossiemouth: Cameron Farquhar, James Leslie (Ross Morrison 77), Jared Kennedy, Dean Stewart, Lewis McAndrew, Ross Paterson, Liam Archibald, Ryan Farquhar (Fergus Edwards 71), Ross Elliott, Brandon Hutcheson, Ryan Stuart (Fraser Forbes 59).

Subs not used: Michael Weir, Ross Archibald, Baylee Campbell, Oliver Kelly.

Goalscorer: Dean Stewart (4).

Referee: Joel Kennedy, Assistant Referees: Graeme Jack & Olivia Crawford.

Above top: Dean Stewart fires Lossie into an early lead

Above left: Its Butcher again as he slides the Broch into the lead

Above right: Ryan Sargent is bundled over to give Butcher the penalty for his third

Locos started the better of the teams but a silly challenge by Callum Dingwall in the box on Ryan Sargent after seven minutes saw the Broch striker net from the spot. Sam Robertson then saw a shot blocked away for the home side but on 10 minutes Scott Barbour doubled the visitors lead at the second attempt after William West has found him from a cross from the left.

It got worse for Locos on 12 minutes when Sea Butcher volleyed home Greg Buchan’s cross from 8 yards and the Broch striker grabbed another on 39 minutes with a superb 25-yard effort after Barbour had nodded the ball down to him. Four minutes later Calum Dingwall compounded the home sides misery slicing a Barbour corner into his own net.

The Broch kept the pressure up after the break with Logan Watt seeing a header drift wide and at the other end Garry Wood’s effort on 63 minutes flew just over the crossbar. Bryan Hay tried his luck from the edge of the box on 71 minutes, but his effort went wide.

Sargent set up West with a reverse pass, but the Broch captain shot wide. Josh Bolton then curled a shot just over and Aidan Sopel saw his effort comfortably saved as the visitors went in search of further goals.

A sixth duly arrived on 85 minutes when Connor Wood lashed the ball high past Andrew Reid from 10 yards after Zane Laird had picked him out inside the box. The frontman added a seventh for the Broch on 90 minutes taking a pass from

The scoreboard says it all on a dominant afternoon for the Broch

Breedon Highland League| Saturday 5th August 2023

Laird before clipping the ball high into the net for his second of the match.

Fraserburgh manager Mark Cowie was delighted to see his team score seven times in a dominant display. He said “Scott Barbour, Ryan Sargent and Sean Butcher are exciting players as a front line, and they make things happen. It was a great result, and we go into a massive game against Buckie Thistle next week on the back of two wins with good confidence.”

Full Time: Inverurie Loco Works 0

Fraserburgh 7

Inverurie Loco Works: Andrew Reid, Greg Mitchell, Calum Dingwall, Logan Johnstone, Sam Robertson, Garry Wood (Blair Smith 74), Demilade Yunus, Josh Buchan (Thomas Reid 70), Jamie Michie (Jay Halliday 61), Lloyd Robertson, Glen Donald. Subs not used: Cole Anderson, Callum Duncan, John Farquhar.

Fraserburgh: Joe Barbour, Bryan Hay, Kieran Simpson, Paul Young, William West, Ryan Sargent (Josh Bolton 75), Scott Barbour (Grant Campbell 61), Logan Watt (Zane Laird 75), Greg Buchan (Aidan Sopel 61), Sean Butcher (Connor Wood 61), Ross Aitken.

Subs not used: Ryan Cowie, Edward Flinn.

Goalscorers: Ryan Sargent (7 pen), Scott Barbour (10), Sean Butcher (12, 39), Own Goal (43), Connor Wood (85, 90).

Referee: Scott Donohoe, Assistant Referees: Shaun Telford & Joshua McCallum.

Top: Scott Barbour drives home to double the early lead

Middle: Sean Butcher’s smart finish makes it three

Bottom: Connor Wood races clear to add the sixth

The Jags retained their 100% record in the Breedon Highland League with a 3-1 win, secured courtesy of Andrew Macaskill’s brace and Josh Peters’ counter. With both clubs aspiring to win the league it is an important early season victory for Buckie Thistle.

The opening exchanges were scrappy but in the 25th minute the Broch almost forged ahead. Kieran Simpson’s long ball into the Buckie box was allowed to bounce and broke for Ryan Sargent who volleyed over from close range.

Two minutes later Thistle punished that miss by taking the lead. Paul Young tackled Macaskill but the loose ball broke off Simpson, who slipped, which allowed Kyle Macleod space on the right. He calmly picked out Macaskill in the box to blast past Joe Barbour from eight yards.

In the 31st minute the Jags doubled their advantage when, after a spell of possession, Dale Wood swung a cross in from the left and Macaskill ghosted in at the back post to

head into the top left corner. On the stroke of half-time Wood tried his luck from 25 yards but Joe Barbour was equal to the effort.

The next goal was always likely to be critical and the Broch looked to get it on 48 minutes when Greg Buchan stung goalkeeper Stuart Knight’s palms from 20 yards. Six minutes later Simpson’s high ball released Scott Barbour but as the striker went to pull the trigger, Joe McCabe got back to make an excellent sliding block.

On 70 minutes Knight made a good save down to his right to turn away substitute Logan Watt’s strike from the edge of the area. Three minutes from time Broch substitute Connor Wood met Watt’s corner, but his glancing header rebounded off the right post.

On 89 minutes Buckie put the seal on their victory when Max Barry’s low ball in from the left found Mackaskill. His strike from 15 yards hit the inside of the left post and

Breedon Highland League| Saturday 12th August 2023

Connor Wood’s header comes back off the post with Knight beaten

rolled across goal with substitute Peters on hand to force home the rebound.

In the first minute of injury-time Fraserburgh netted a consolation when Watt’s cross from the right was glanced on by Jamie Beagrie and Butcher forced the ball in from virtually on the goal-line.

Broch manager Mark Cowie said “first half playing against a strong wind we were doing ok, and it was quite scrappy. However, in the space of five minutes we lost two cheap goals which turns the game on its head. Second half we put on the pressure, but nothing was falling for us and there wasn’t much fluency to it. Buckie were a bit better at winning second balls and a bit sharper across the frontline. It’s three games into the season and I think folk are getting carried away with things. We’re three points behind Buckie and there’s a long way to go. Once we hit March we’ll start worrying about where we are and what we need to do.”

Full Time: Fraserburgh 1 Buckie Thistle 3

Fraserburgh: Joe Barbour, Bryan Hay, Kieran Simpson, Paul Young, William West, Ryan Sargent (Jamie Beagrie 78), Scott Barbour (Connor Wood 63), Greg Buchan (Logan Watt 63), Sean Butcher, Grant Campbell, Ross Aitken (Zane Laird 78).

Subs not used: Lewis Davidson, Ryan Cowie, Josh Bolton, Edward Flinn.

Goalscorer: Sean Butcher (90).

Buckie Thistle: Stuart Knight, Darryl McHardy, Jack Murray, Kyle Macleod, Andrew Macaskill, Cohen Ramsay, Joseph McCabe, Sam Pugh, Max Barry, Marcus Goodall (Joshua Peters 78), Dale Wood.

Subs not used: Lewis Mackinnon, Euan Storrier, Ryan Fyffe, Jack Maciver, Hamish Munro, Lyall Keir, Scott Adams.

Goalscorers: Andrew Macaskill (28, 31), Joshua Peters (89).

Referee: Lewis Brown, Assistant Referees: Brian Fowlie & John Milne.

Top: Knight punches clear with assistance from McHardy

Middle: Jamie Beagrie loops a header to beat Knight

Bottom: Sean Butcher acknowledges the late consolation

Fraserburgh edged past a spirited Deveronvale side by the odd goal in five at a blustery Bellslea Park. The home side made the perfect start scoring in the 2nd minute when Jamie Beagrie burst through the middle after collecting a pass from Ryan Sargent and drove the ball beyond Sean McIntosh into the net. Despite this the Broch couldn’t seem to find any rhythm to their play, and the visitors almost levelled through Scott Thompson whose driving run from the halfway line forced a corner, from which he blazed another chance over the bar.

Chances were few and far between but Kieran Simpson’s downward header from a Logan Watt corner on 18 minutes was magnificently tipped over by McIntosh. Into the second half and Vale were first to threaten ex Broch player Jamie MacLellan saw his half volley pushed away by Joe Barbour. Just as the home crowd were getting a bit restless Greg Buchan curled in

a cross from the left on 54 minutes, which evaded everyone in the penalty area and nestled into the far corner to double the Broch’s lead.

Scott Barbour had a chance to seal the points with 15 minutes remaining, latching onto a loose ball, but his shot from 12 yards clipped the outside of the post. The visitors got back into the game six minutes later when Jayden Goldie fired a shot high into the top corner after Jayden Bradford set him up.

All hopes of gaining a point were extinguished within two minutes though when the same player tripped Barbour inside the Vale penalty area and Sean Butcher sent McIntosh the wrong way from the resultant spot kick. To their credit the Banff side never gave up and Matthew Petermann headed home Goldie’s cross from close range in stoppage time, but the home side held on for all three points.

Breedon Highland League| Saturday 19th August 2023

Jamie Beagrie slips it under the keeper for the opener

Broch manager Mark Cowie felt that the strong wind had an impact on the game, but the most important thing was to get all three points which we did. He added “despite getting the early goal we didn’t dominate or kick on and the first half was pretty flat. We were better in the second half and were able to bring on the likes of Barbour, Butcher and Paul Young who made a difference. In the end we deserved the win having created more chances and I’m happy to be sitting in the pack with 9 points after four matches”.

Full Time: Fraserburgh 3 Deveronvale 2

Fraserburgh: Joe Barbour, Lewis Davidson, Bryan Hay (Paul Young 60), Kieran Simpson, Jamie Beagrie, Ryan Sargent (Zane Laird 82), Connor Wood (Josh Bolton 87), Logan Watt (Sean Butcher 60), Greg Buchan, Grant Campbell (Scott Barbour 60), Ross Aitken.

Subs not used: Ryan Cowie, William West, Aidan Sopel, Edward Flinn.

Goalscorers: Jamie Beagrie (3), Greg Buchan (54), Sean Butcher (85 (pen)).

Deveronvale: Sean McIntosh, Jayden Goldie, Harry Noble, Jamie MacLellan, Innes McKay, Jaydan Bradford, Horace Ormsby, Scott Thompson, Matthew Petermann, Rogan Read, Michael Watson (Jack Mitchell 73).

Subs not used: Charlie Hay, Ben Allan, Cameron Angus, Kyle Mackillop-Hall, Alexsander Dlugosz, Curtis West.

Goalscorers: Jayden Goldie (81), Matthew Petermann (90).

Referee: Harry Bruce, Assistant Referees: Martin Bell & Brian Fowlie

Top: No way through for Ormsby as Campbell and Davidson stand firm

Middle: Connor Wood dummies the centre to give Greg Buchan the second

Bottom: Scott Barbour is felled to give Butcher the pen for number three

Fraserburgh will travel to face Strathspey Thistle in the quarterfinals of this season’s Highland League Cup after hitting Deveronvale for nine without reply at Princess Royal Park in a dominant performance from start to finish.

The match was only five minutes old when Scott Barbour’s cross found Zane Laird 8 yards out and he fired the ball past Sean McIntosh into the bottom corner of the net. Six minutes later Scott Barbour’s corner was headed home by Sean Butcher from close range to double the Broch’s lead.

The visitors added a third from another corner on 22 minutes, this time Lewis Davidson swinging in the cross which saw Bryan Hay’s shot fire past the Vale keeper. That became 4-0 on the half hour when Paul Young picked out Scott Barbour and the striker smashed the ball home from 20 yards.

A minute into the second half and Scott Barbour was at it again this time nodding home from 3 yards out after Ryan Sargent had crossed from the left. Butcher got his second of the match with another close-range header on 50 minutes after good play by William West on the left wing.

Josh Bolton netted on 70 minutes when fellow substitute Ryan Cowie picked him out o the edge of the box and the Broch striker angled a shot into the bottom right-hand corner of McIntosh’s net. Things went from bad to worse on 77 minutes when Jaydan Bradford was red carded for hauling down Scott Barbour as he raced clear on goal.

The Broch hitman made it 8-0 on 83 minutes, collecting a Sargent pass before rifling the ball into the net from 20 yards and in so doing netting his 300th career goal. Sargent ending

GPH Builders Merchants Highland League Cup, Round 1| Saturday 26th August 2023

Scott Barbour: hat-trick at Vale to bring up 300 goals in his senior career

the scoring in the last-minute heading home Cowie’s cross from inside the six-yard box.

Broch manager Mark Cowie was delighted with what he labelled as their best display of the season so far. “We moved the ball quickly to exploit gaps in the Vale defence and inbetween the lines and caused problems all game long. I said to the players at half-time that I wasn’t bothered what the scoreline was, but that I wanted a clean sheet as we have conceded a few goals at home being sloppy.”

“Our back four were immense giving Vale no room to create anything, with Paul Young being untouchable on the day after what has been a slow start to the season for him. Scott Barbour has had a lean spell, but he scored three and set up a few so I am over the moon with what the team gave today.”

Full Time: Deveronvale 0 Fraserburgh 9

Deveronvale: Sean McIntosh, Jayden Goldie, Harry Noble, Jamie MacLellan, Innes McKay, Jaydan Bradford, Horace Ormsby (Jack Mitchell 67), Scott Thompson (Max Stewart 67), Matthew Petermann (Cameron Angus 61), Rogan Read (Ben Allan 46), Michael Watson (Kyle Mackillop-Hall 76).

Subs not used: Charlie Hay, Curtis West.

Fraserburgh: Joe Barbour, Lewis Davidson, Bryan Hay, Paul Young, Jamie Beagrie, William West (Logan Watt 65), Scott Barbour, Connor Wood (Ryan Sargent 36), Greg Buchan (Ryan Cowie 65), Sean Butcher (Aidan Sopel 55), Zane Laird (Josh Bolton 55).

Subs not used: Kieran Simpson, Cameron Robertson, Ross Aitken, Edward Flinn.

Goalscorers: Zane Laird (5), Sean Butcher (11, 50), Bryan Hay (22), Scott Barbour (30, 46, 83), Josh Bolton (70), Ryan Sargent (89).

Referee: Duncan Nicolson, Assistant Referees: Darren Munro & Caryl Potten.

Top: Zane Laird opens up some space as he fires home the early opener

Middle: Scott Barbour heads home and its five

Bottom: Another header, this time from Sean Butcher, and the Broch make it six

FRASERBURGH

Back (left to right): Scott Murray (Kitman), Connor Wood, Aidan Sopel, Ryan Cowie, Josh Bolton, Edward Finn, Bryan Hay,

Front (left to right): Greg Buchan, Zane Laird, Grant Campbell, James Duthie (Assistant Manager),

FRASERBURGH FC 2023/24

Hay, Joe Barbour, Lewis Davidson, Sean Butcher, Logan Watt, Greg Aitken, Sarah Robertson (Physio), Alex Mair (Coach) Manager), Willie West, Mark Cowie (Manager), Ryan Sargent, Paul Young, Scott Barbour

KEITH v. FRASERBURGH MATCH PREVIEW

Breedon Highland League | Wednesday 27th September 2023 | Kynoch Park, Keith

Manager: Craig Ewen

Captain: James Brownie

HFL Record Last 5 seasons*

Highland League results since 2015/16:

2022/23

Sat 18 Feb Fraserburgh 4-0 Keith

Sat 3 Dec Keith 1-1 Fraserburgh

2021/22

Sat 5 Mar Keith 0-5 Fraserburgh

Sat 16 Oct Fraserburgh 7-0 Keith

2020/21

*No fixtures (Covid)

*Covid-interupted seasons not included

Top Scorer 22/23: Kieran Mooney (8)

Last 4 HFL Results

19th Aug

12th Aug

Mechanics 2-1 Keith

United 1-2 Keith

5th Aug Keith 1-1

29th July

1-0 Keith

Broch’s all-time record v. Keith

2019/20

Sat 19 Oct Fraserburgh 4-0 Keith

*No away fixture (Covid)

2018/19

Sat 16 Mar Fraserburgh 3-1 Keith

Wed 8 Aug Keith 0-3 Fraserburgh

2017/18

Sat 25 Nov Fraserburgh 1-2 Keith

Sat 5 Aug Keith 0-3 Fraserburgh

2016/17

Sat 18 Mar Keith 2-6 Fraserburgh

Sat 29 Oct Fraserburgh 1-3 Keith

2015/16

Sat 12 Dec Fraserburgh 0-3 Keith

Sat 22 Aug Keith 1-2 Fraserburgh

Record win: 9-1 at Bellslea Park, League, 9th Aug 1930

Record defeat: 2-9 at Kynoch Park, League, 18th Aug 1934

January

2010: The Broch come from behind to beat Nairn County 3-1 with goals from Willie West (above top), Dean Elrick (above right), and Allan Hale (next page)

FORRES

MECHANICS v. FRASERBURGH MATCH PREVIEW

Breedon Highland League | Saturday 30th September | Mosset Park, Forres

Manager: Steven MacDonald

Captain: Lee Fraser

HFL Record Last 5 seasons*

Highland League results since 2015/16:

2022/2023

Sat 15 Apr Fraserburgh 3-0 Forres Mechanics

Sat 05 Nov Forres Mechanics 1-1 Fraserburgh

2021/2022

Sat 16 Apr Fraserburgh 5-0 Forres Mechanics

Sat 20 Nov Forres Mechanics 0-7 Fraserburgh

2020/21

*No fixtures (Covid)

*Covid-interupted seasons not included

Top Scorer 22/23: Ben Barron (14)

HFL 2023/24 so far:

Sat 19th Aug Forres Mechanics 2-1 Keith

Wed 16th Aug Buckie Thistle 3-1 Forres Mechanics

Sat 5th Aug Lossiemouth 0-3 Forres Mechanics

Sat 29th Jul Forres Mechanics 2-1 Strathspey Thistle

Broch’s all-time record v. Forres

2019/2020

Sat 07 Sep Fraserburgh 3-3 Forres Mechanics

*No away fixture (Covid)

2018/2019

Sat 26 Jan Fraserburgh 3-4 Forres Mechanics

Sat 08 Sep Forres Mechanics 1-2 Fraserburgh

2017/2018

Sat 27 Jan Fraserburgh 6-1 Forres Mechanics

Sat 30 Sep Forres Mechanics 2-3 Fraserburgh

2016/2017

Sat 10 Dec Fraserburgh 2-3 Forres Mechanics

Sat 20 Aug Forres Mechanics 0-2 Fraserburgh

2015/2016

Sat 26 Mar Forres Mechanics 1-2 Fraserburgh

Sat 19 Mar Fraserburgh 1-2 Forres Mechanics

Record win:

7-0 at Bellslea Park, League, 8th Dec 1956

7-0 at Mosset Park, 20th Nov 2021

Record defeat: 2-9 at Mosset Park, League, 28th Nov 1925

FRASERBURGH FC SUPPORTERS CLUB NEWS

Over the past few weeks, we have been back to playing our Highland League games, first game of the season was at home to Lossiemouth, after going a goal down early on we started to pen Lossie into their own half, Sean Butcher came on as a sub at halftime and managed to score a hattrick which gave us a great winning start to the new season.

Our first supporter’s bus of the season saw us away to Inverurie, 60 people wanted to go to the game which is a fantastic start for the supporter’s club, the team didn’t let us down as we romped to a 7 goal to nil victory, Ryan Sargent was upended in the box early on, he dusted himself down and calmly stroked the ball home from the penalty spot, we went in at halftime leading 5 nil, Connor Wood came on as a sub and netted 2 crackers late on to seal the win.

On the Monday night we started the defence of the Aberdeenshire under 21 League, before the game, on behalf of the team, Zane Laird was presented with a plaque by Finlay Noble for winning the League last season, we were at home to Huntly, a strong Broch team won the game by 5 goals to nil, Josh Bolton started the scoring before Logan Watt and Zane Laird grabbed a brace each.

Our toughest test of the season was next for the first team as Buckie Thistle came to the Bellslea, a very physical Buckie team were helped by a weak referee, Buckie had the strong wind at their backs in the first half, they had three shots at goal on target and scored 2 goals, the Broch dominated the second half but a Buckie break away gave them a third goal, the Broch scored in the 91st minute, Logan Watt went past the Buckie left back, his cross was deflected into the air and was headed towards

goal by Jamie Beagrie, the ball had crossed the line before Sean Butcher made certain and tapped home at the back post.

We were supposed to be away to Keith in the League on Wednesday 16th of August, Keith have had problems with their floodlights so the game has been rearranged for Wednesday 27th September with an 8pm kick-off.

We then had a home game against Deveronvale, Mark rung the changes in the starting lineup, we opened the scoring in the 2nd minute when Jamie Beagrie slotted home, we went 2 nil up with a bizarre goal from Greg Buchan, the Vale were back in the game when they scored in the 81st minute, a Sean Butcher penalty restored our 2-goal lead 2 minutes later, Vale scored a 2nd goal late on but we held on for the 3 points.

The under 21’s were away to Dyce for their second game of the season, Aiden Sopel blasted in a goal in the 10th minute, Josh Bolton slammed in another for the Broch to be 2 nil up at halftime, Zane Laird completed a 9-minute hattrick to complete the scoring as the lads ran out 5 nil winners.

We were then away to Banff to face Deveronvale in the 1st round of the Highland League Cup, what looked like a banana skin fixture was anything but, the Broch won the game by 9 goals to nil, Scott Barbour added another 3 goals in his quest to overtake Michael Stephen’s all time goals tally, he also recorded his 300th goal in the Highland League.

Well done Scott from all at the Supporter’s Club.

We have been given an away tie to Strathspey Thistle in the Quarter final of the Highland League Cup, this will take place on Saturday 9th September, details for a bus for this game will be sent out soon by Barry Walker.

The under 18’s were at home to Dyce for their first game of the season, a young Broch team were defeated by 4 goals to 3, they were 2 nil down early on because of a mistake at the back and a deflected shot, Stuart Laird scored in the 20th minute when a shot come cross deceived the Dyce keeper and nestled into the top righthand corner, Dyce restored their 2 goal lead with a sweeping move down the left wing, on the 39th minute Hamish Gordon powered in a header from a corner on the left, early in the second half Dyce restored their 2 goal lead, Max Wiseman finished off a superb Broch move down the left wing, both teams had chances in the second half but there were no further goals in the game.

We have been drawn away to Aberdeen in the preliminary round of the Morrison Motors Aberdeenshire Shield, the game will be played on the 11th October at Pittodrie Stadium with a 7:30pm KO.

The draw for the 1st round of the Scottish Cup will take place later in September, it is always a really exciting time for the fans as we could get to play someone different from the norm, if we win then we can dream of a big tie by progressing into the later rounds of the competition.

The games will take place on the weekend of the 23rd September, fingers, legs and toes crossed for a good draw.

Last season we were drawn away to Civil Service Strollers in the 1st round of the Scottish Cup on Saturday 17th September, we all had a fabulous day out at Christie Gillies Park in Edinburgh. Goals from Connor Wood and Sean Butcher gave us a 2 goal to 1 victory on the day.

We will be running a bus to the Inverness Clachnacuddin game on Saturday 2nd September, the bus will leave the Elizabethan at 11:00am, the cost of travel is £25 for adults and £15 for others.

We normally don’t run a bus to the Wick game, but depending on numbers on Saturday 16th September, the bus would leave the Elizabethan at 8:00am, the cost of travel is £35 for adults and £25 for others.

The Scottish Cup 1st round is on the 23rd September, if we are drawn away from home, we will be running a bus, Barry Walker will send out information on the details of the trip.

We will be running a bus to the Keith game on Wednesday 27th September which will leave the Elizabethan at 6:15pm, the cost of travel is £10 for adults and £5 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. Visit

CLUB SPONSORS 2023/24

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CLUB SPONSORS 2023/24

PBP Services

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Our main services include all types of surface preparation such as blast cleaning using abrasive grits, UHP waterblasting, slurry blasting, steam cleaning, pressure washing and all types of mechanical tool preparation to surfaces ranging from ferrous and non ferrous metals, to concrete, fibre glass and wood.

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Masson Glennie

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George Thom

Vice Chairman and Sponsorship Co-ordinator

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DG Electrical

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QUESTION & ANSWER ROSS AITKEN

Where did you grow up?

Macduff. Spent many nights and weekends playing football down at Myrus Park.

Team supported as a boy?

Celtic! Always try and get down to a few Sunday games during the season.

First game you remember watching?

Celtic v. Porto in the UEFA Cup Final. I would’ve been 6 years old. Remember getting to stay up late on a school night to watch the game.

First game you can remember playing in?

Macduff Lions - used to play a lot of galas locally. Banff and Buckie games were always good to play in!

Who do you sit next to on the bus?

Usually Greg Buchan. Although being in

Banff we are last to get on so where ever there is space. Lads like to have 2 seats and space to themselves!

The boots you wore for your last game?

Nike Phantoms.

Best moment on a football pitch?

Winning the league at home to Forres. The Shield Final at Keith runs it close with us scoring a last minute winner against Buckie!

Favourite goal you have scored?

Don’t score many goals!! I'll go for my first goal for Broch against Clach, a tap in at the back post.

What’s your favourite movie or TV series?

Peaky Blinders or Power.

Favourite band or artist?

Sam Fender.

Who has the worst taste in music in the dressing room?

Aidan Sopel. Always tries to get on tunes

Favourite goal you have seen?

Henrik Larsson in an Old Firm game with a chip over Stefan Klos. I’ve watched that goal many times on YouTube.

Funniest thing you have seen in a dressing room?

Aidan Sopel. Can always count on him coming away with a funny story or something daft!

Any pre-match rituals or special routines?

Have a few - Same breakfast every match day. Go the same walk in the morning. Always put my right boot on first.

Which player in history would you like to play alongside?

Messi.

If you had the power, which one thing would you change about football?

Fair Ticket and Stadium food and drinks prices. Make football more affordable for fans!

How do you relax away from football?

Watch more football or play golf. Try to keep busy to save being dragged to the shops!

Cup Draws

The draw for the Morrison Motors Aberdeenshire Shield was made on Tuesday 22nd August as follows.

Aberdeen v Fraserburgh

Hermes Juniors v Banks o’ Dee

Inverurie Loco Works v Dyce

Deveronvale v Formartine United

Keith v Elgin City

Byes: Huntly, Buckie Thistle and Turriff United

Aberdeen v. Fraserburgh to be played at Pittodrie on Wednesday 11th October.

Following the successful trip to Deveronvale, the draw for the Quarter Finals of the GPH Builders Merchants Highland League Cup took place on Saturday 26th August.

Brora Rangers v Forres Mechanics

Keith v Buckie Thistle

Brechin City v Inverurie Locos

Strathspey Thistle v Fraserburgh

Ties to be played on Saturday 9th September. ——————————

The draw for the first round of the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup, will be made following the preliminary round fixtures, weekend of 2nd September, with ties to be played on the weekend of 23rd September.

PLAYER & STAFF SPONSORS

MEMORY MATCH

BROCH WIN IN SHOOT-OUT

FRASERBURGH 2-2 DEVERONVALE (after extra time)

Fraserburgh won 4-3 on penalties

Aberdeenshire Shield Final | Wednesday 28th November 1991 | Christie Park, Huntly

BATTLING Fraserburgh shook off their bridesmaids label at Christie Park, Huntly, last night to run out 4-3 winners of the Evening Express Aberdeenshire Shield on penalties.

With the game in its final minute of extra time, Deveronvale led 2-1 thanks to a Lewis Muirhead goal in the 113th minute which had broken a deadlock extending back to when the game was only half-an-hour old.

But with the Banffers on the point of celebrating their first cup win in six years, referee Sandy Roy sent Vale centre half Alan Forbes off for impeding Scott Murray and awarded a penalty which Dave Robertson rattled past Randall to set up an enthralling climax.

As a spectacle, the game never really got off the ground, with both sides grappling to come to terms with a howling gale.

But Fraserburgh got their noses in front in 10 minutes when Andy

LAVELLE powered in a near-post header to punish deperate Vale marking on a corner.

In 15 minutes, Vale's Muirhead curled a 25-yard free kick a yard wide. But from an identical position 15 minutes later, MUIRHEAD got it exactly right when his free kick left Broch keeper Billy Gordon flat-footed and flew into the net.

Half-time

FRASERBURGH 1-1 DEVERONVALE

Early in the second half, Fraserburgh pinned Vale back in their own half, but produced little to threaten the defence.

Muirhead snatched at two half chances midway through the second half and Ronny Smith engineered a rare opening for himself in 80 minutes, only to drill his shot wide.

Full-time

FRASERBURGH 1-1 DEVERONVALE

The best early chance in extra time went Vale's way when Richard Masson wriggled through the Broch defence, but clipped his shot off target.

Seven minutes from the end of extra time, MUIRHEAD swivelled to volley a Montgomery cross high into the Broch net and it looked as though Vale had clinched the trophy. But then controversy intervened. Vale centre half Alan Forbes walked off the field after being shown the red card, with few in the 580 crowd having any idea as to his crime. ROBERTSON cracked in the penalty and it all came down to a test of nerves.

Full-time (aet)

FRASERBURGH 2-2 DEVERONVALE

Vale's most experienced player Graeme Masson immediately handed the advantage to Fraserburgh when he hit the first penalty high over the crossbar. From then on, the score stayed level until Lewis Muirhead stepped up needing to score to save Vale.

But his penalty kick was saved by Fraserburgh keeper Billy Gordon.

Scorers

Fraserburgh: Lavelle (10), Robertson (119 pen)

Deveronvale: Muirhead 2 (30, 113)

Fraserburgh penalties:

Ronald Smith, Jimmy Young, Dave Robertson, Scott Murray (all scored)

FRASERBURGH:

Billy Gordon, Scott Clark, Brian Sim (Stephen Sutherland), Jimmy Young, Colin Robertson, Symon Sim, Alan Thomson (Scott Murray), Andy

Lavelle, Dave Robertson, Graeme Alexander, Ronnie Smith

DEVERONVALE:

Randall, C.Forbes, Massie, G.Masson, A.Forbes, Clark, Pirie (Montgomery), Mair, McBeath, Hadden (R.Masson), Muirhead

Referee: A.Roy (Aberdeen)

Source: Press & Journal, 29th November 1991

REGULATIONS

Copies of these Ground regulations are posted in areas of the Ground so as to be easily accessible and visible to spectators

1. All persons entering the Ground are admitted subject to the following Ground Rules and to the Rules and Regulations of the SFA and the SHFL. Entry to the Ground shall be deemed to constitute unqualified acceptance of all these Rules and Regulations.

2. All persons entering the Ground are admitted subject to the condition that they may be required to submit to search to prevent dangerous articles being brought into the Ground which might be used to cause injury or damage to persons or property.

3. Spectators are asked, in the interests of public safety and good order, to comply with all instructions issued by Police, Stewards or designated agents of the Club.

4. All matches are played in accordance with the Rules of the Scottish Football Association, the Scottish Highland Football League and, where applicable, the Regulations of U.E.F.A. competitions.

5. Play cannot be guaranteed to take place on any particular day or at any particular time and the Club reserves the right to change its advertised fixtures without prior notice and without liability.

6. On no account will admission be granted to a person who is subject of a current Football Banning Order.

7. Tickets allocated by this Club are issued on the express condition that no holder shall sell or transfer the ticket for a larger price than face value. In the event of any breach of this condition Fraserburgh F.C. reserves the right to cancel the ticket and retain the money paid.

8. At all times, the right of admission is reserved by the Club Management and unless specifically authorised no transfers between Stands are allowed. Spectators found in the wrong area amid opposing fans may be ejected.

9. When a match is abandoned before the expiry of the first half, admission vouchers for the rearranged fixture will be issued to spectators. That arrangement does not however preclude spectators from seeking a cash refund from the Club on presentation of that voucher. The arrangements in cases where the match is abandoned after the expiry of the first half shall be a matter for the reasonable discretion of the Club.

10. In the event of an all ticket match being postponed for any reason, the ticket can be retained and will be valid for the rescheduled fixture. Alternatively spectators will be entitled to a refund.

11. Children over the age of 13 entering the Ground, must pay for admission or hold a valid ticket. Children 12 and under shall be admitted free of charge provided they are accompanied by an adult.

12. Unauthorised persons are not permitted to enter upon the field of play or the perimeter track. Failure to comply may result in arrest or removal from the stadium, application of a stadium ban and/or instigation of Football Banning Order procedures.

13. It is an offence under the terms of the Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995, as amended by the Crime and Disorder Act, 1998 to make any remarks of a racist nature. Any breach of this offence may result in arrest and instigation of Football Banning Order procedures.

14. It is an offence under the Public Order Act 1986 for any person to enter, or attempt to enter the Ground:

• whilst in possession of any article or substance whose main function is the emission of a flare for the purposes of illuminating or signalling (as opposed to igniting or heating) or the emission of smoke or visible gas, and in particular includes distress flares, fog signals and pellets and capsules intended to be used as fumigators or for testing pipes.

• with any article which is a firework.

• and subsequently activate smoke canisters and/or pyrotechnics, which can endanger the safety of spectators

15. It is an offence under the Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995 to enter or attempt to enter the Ground:

• Whilst in possession of a controlled container which is or was capable of holding liquid and which, if thrown would be capable of causing injury to another person

• Whilst in possession of alcohol

• Whilst drunk

16. The use of threatening behaviour, foul or abusive language is strictly forbidden. Racial, sectarian, homophobic or discriminatory abuse or chanting is also forbidden and is considered as unacceptable conduct and may result in arrest and/or instigation of Football Banning Order procedures.

17. Persistent standing is forbidden in seated viewing areas. Anyone who continues to stand after having been requested not to, may be removed from the stadium and be subject to a ban.

18. Under no circumstances is it permitted to throw any objects whether on to the pitch or track or otherwise.

19. Club flags and banners, as well as any official national flag are permissible, provided they do not carry any additional religious, racist or other derogatory messages. Flags/banners must not interfere with the viewing capabilities or safety of other Spectators. In addition, flags and banners must not be allowed to obstruct advertising boards or directional signage. Small flags can be mounted on garden canes provided the canes measure less than 100cms in length.

20. Unnecessary noise such as from the use of radio sets and behaviour likely to cause confusion, annoyance or nuisance of any kind, is not permitted in any part of the Ground.

21. With the exception of authorised Media representatives holding accreditation issued by the club/event organiser, the taking of photographs or filming by any means inside the Ground is prohibited. In addition, no transmission or reproduction, in whole or in part, in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise is permitted save with a special authorisation in writing by the club/event organiser and, where appropriate, the prior consent of the Scottish Football Association, the Scottish Highland Football League or appropriate body.

22. Only persons specifically authorised in writing by the Club are permitted to offer Newspapers, Periodicals or any other Articles for sale in the Ground and any charitable collection will only be permitted within the ground with prior written consent of the Club.

23. The Club reserves the right for its servants and agents and for members of Police Forces to remove from this Ground any person who does not comply with these Ground Regulations and with the Rules and Regulations of the SFA, SHFL. and/or where applicable, the regulations of U.E.F.A. Competitions or, whose presence in the Ground is, or could reasonably be construed as, constituting a source of danger, nuisance or annoyance to other Spectators.

24. CCTV cameras may be in use and recordings could be used in any proceedings.

25. The Club operates a ProtocolAgreement with Police Scotland whereby the details of individuals who have been ejected or arrested at matches involving Fraserburgh F.C. either home or away, is shared with the Club. On examination of this information the Club reserves the right to indefinitely ban the individual from Bellslea Park and from purchasing tickets for away matches from the Club’s Ticket outlets.

26. In compliance with Smoking, Health and Social Care (Scotland) Act 2005, and the Prohibition of Smoking in Certain Premises (Scotland) Act 2006, smoking is permitted within areas designated for that purpose within the stadium. Failure to comply with this legislation will see the individual ejected from the Stadium and, where appropriate, issued with a fixed penalty ticket by the Police

27. Use of umbrellas – fans can bring collapsible umbrellas into the stadium and retain them but cannot use them during the game. Fixed umbrellas (of the type which have pointed metal ends) are not permitted into the stadium, per SFA ground rules.

First Team Stats and HFL Table

FIRST TEAM FIXTURES & RESULTS 2023/24

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Development Teams

GPH Builders Merchants Aberdeenshire League, Fraserburgh v Huntly, Monday

7th August 2023

Fraserburgh started their title defence of the Aberdeenshire League in fine fashion with a comfortable 5-0 victory over Huntly. The home side almost made the perfect start on 9 minutes, but Zane Laird saw his powerful shot saved by Kyle Morrison. At the other end Kyle Dalling got on the end of a cross but Sam Inglis did well to thwart the Huntly centre half.

On 19 minutes Logan Watt released Zane Laird on the left and the Broch striker cut inside before seeing his shot deflected wide. The Broch took the lead in the 28th minute when Zane Laird picked out Josh Bolton with a cutback and the home striker fired home from close range.

Five minutes later it should have been two for the home side as Bolton raced clear on goal only to see his effort saved, before Callum Kelly followed up but his shot was cleared off the line. A second goal did arrive on 41 minutes when Cameron Robertson and Ethan Sutherland combined to set up Watt who

smashed the ball home from the edge of the box.

Huntly almost snatched a goal back four minutes after the break, but Inglis did well to push away Callum Murray’s effort after he had cut in from the left. A minute later it was 3-0. David Nyembwe felled Zane Laird inside the penalty area, and he got up to dispatch the spot kick high into the net. Zane then extended the Broch’s lead on 53 minutes firing the ball past Morrison.

On the hour Lucas Sey brought out a great save by Inglis from a half volley. Twelve minutes later Watt set up Stuart Laird, but his effort was well saved by Morrison. Watt capped a fine night for the home side on 86 minutes driving the ball into the bottom left corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Full Time: Fraserburgh 5 Huntly 0

Fraserburgh: Sam Inglis (Daniel Cummings 78), Jake Garden (Flynn McKay 78), Cameron Robertson, Dylan Robertson, John Adams, Grant Campbell (Aaron Miller 62), Ethan Sutherland (Ben Riddell 72), Logan Watt, Callum Kelly (Stuart Laird 62), Josh Bolton, Zane Laird.

Goalscorers: Josh Bolton (28), Logan Watt (41, 86), Zane Laird (50 (pen), 53).

Huntly: Kyle Morrison, David Nyembwe, Sami Ahmed (Jamie Geddes 63), Kyle Dalling, Stevie Paterson, Dillon Farquhar, Alfie Bain (Oisin Collinson 37), Murdo Reid (Callum Christie 63), Lucas Sey (Henry Coutts 63), Owen Morris (Zander Zvegintzov 31), Callum Murray.

Referee: Jack Bell.

GPH Builders Merchants Aberdeenshire

League, Dyce v Fraserburgh, Monday 21st August 2023

The Broch followed up their opening day victory in the Aberdeenshire League with another 5-0 success this time away to Dyce. It was the home side that started brighter when Theo Leslie stung the palms of Sam Inglis in the Broch goal.

The visitors took the lead on 11 minutes when Aidan Sopel flashed a left foot shot which flew past Jack Robertson from outside the box. The Broch winger should have made it 2-0 on 36 minutes when a poor kick out by Robertson went straight to the winger, but he blazed over from a good position.

Five minutes later Josh Bolton crashed the ball home from 12 yards after Zane Laird’s initial effort from Sopel’s cross had been blocked. Sopel was the architect of the Broch’s third goal on 59 minutes crossing for Zane Laird to nod home at the back post.

The visitors made several changes, but it didn’t interrupt their flow as Zane Laird tapped the ball home on 65 minutes after Bolton had seen his net-bound shot saved by Robertson. The fifth goal arrived four minutes later. Sopel saw his header come back off the post, Zane Laird crashed the ball off the crossbar on the follow-up before firing home the rebound via a deflection.

Into the last ten minutes and Bolton tried his luck from 25 yards but the effort went just over. Dyce mustered a couple of late chances first when Dylan Shaw hit the crossbar with a shot and then Nazam Abdulkarim saw his effort from a corner cleared off the line.

Full Time: Dyce 0 Fraserburgh 5

Dyce: Jack Robertson, Lucas Taylor-Youngson (Aaron Parke 70), Harrison Hinks, Nazam Abdulkarim, Craig McDonald, Kyle Douglas (Ritchie Massie 70), Ryan McLean, Zane Lawson, Damon Collins (Owen Grant 70), Dylan Shaw, Theo Leslie (Reuben Skea 54).

Fraserburgh: Sam Inglis (Daniel Cummings 72), Jake Garden, Cameron Robertson (Flynn McKay 63), Dylan Robertson (John Adams 63), William West, Ethan Sutherland, Aidan Sopel, Logan Watt, Callum Kelly (Stuart Laird 63), Josh Bolton, Zane Laird.

Goalscorers: Aidan Sopel (11), Josh Bolton (41), Zane Laird (59, 65, 89).

Referee: Jack Bell.

Highland Youth League, Fraserburgh v Dyce, Monday 28th August 2023

The Under 18s got their League campaign underway with a visit from Dyce who took the spoils in a seven goal thriller. The Broch youths showed ample resilience as they reduced a two goal deficit on three occasions. However, the leveller couldn’t be found and it was Dyce who would claim the three points.

Full Time: Fraserburgh 3-4 Dyce

Fraserburgh: Daniel Cummings, Findlay Stephen, Flynn McKay, Taylor Dalgarno, Cameron Robertson, Owen Pearson, William Jones, Max Wiseman, Evan Anderson, Hamish Gordon, Stuart Laird

Subs: Fergus Ross, Kai Benson, Theo Watt, Adam Henderson, Jayden Mackay

Fraserburgh Goalscorers: Stuart Laird (20'), Hamish Gordon (39'), Max Wiseman (58')

DEVELOPMENT TEAM FIXTURES & RESULTS

FAN FOCUS MARTIN MOIR

When did you start watching Fraserburgh and why? Can you remember your first game?

Whitehill Welfare 1995-96 Scottish Cup. Lost the replay 2-1, if we won we could’ve got Celtic at home.

Which part of the ground do you go in and why? Any friends you want to mention?

In front of the stand beside the tunnel. It’s full of great laughs and banter between us Broch fans. Kenny McDonald, my fellow committee member, good friend has always stood there. Steve Dickie deserves a mention, only got to know him over the past 2 years but what a great mate, we’ve had some away days in that time.

Best game and why?

Can name a few but the 5-0 win at home to Forres Mechanics was something special to clinch a well deserved league title in an extraordinary season! Spartans away was a close second as we got Rangers at home in round 4.

Worst game and why?

Peterhead 8-0 Broch. 1997 Qualifying Cup Final at Huntly. Got absolutely drenched so my Dad and me watched the game on the bus in the second half and more goals rained in, pardon the pun.

Favourite Fraserburgh player of all time and why?

Michael Stephen, doesn’t need much explaining, Broch all time top goalscorer and good all round player. Gentleman of a man on and off the pitch.

Favourite current player?

Sean Butcher. Not just because I sponsor him. He’s very underrated in my eyes, whilst not the tallest in height but he wins some amount of headers. Always full of effort and well worth a goal.

If you could sign one HFL player for the Broch who would it be?

Neil Gauld, still going strong at Turriff, penalty box striker who knows where the goal is. Very prolific at Inverurie Locos. Scored a great solo goal for Banks o’ Dee at the Bellslea last season.

Your all-time Fraserburgh XI?

Excuse the formation and some positions

Billy Gordon

Ryan Cowie

Russell McBride

Bryan Hay

Steven Main

Willie West

Paul Young

Kevin Norris

Graham Johnston

Michael Stephen

Scott Barbour

Thing you like best about the Club?

The whole club all round. Very community and family based. The players really appreciate the support from the fans plus the players and club officials take time out to speak to supporters and than means a lot.

Favourite Highland League ground apart from Bellslea?

Been to them all but Seafield Park, Grantown-on-Spey for me. Great day out and cracking scenery all round.

One thing you'd like to change about football?

The modern professional game to me is lost. Too much money being thrown about in recent times. This should be tightly regulated.

Watching the Broch in the Highland League does it for me as the players play for the badge no matter what.

Any other club you support?

Celtic Who's going to win the league this season?

The Broch of course!