#14 v Forfar Athletic - Saturday 1st May 2021 by peterheadfc

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Season 2020/21 MATCH DAY #14

PETERHEAD v FORFAR ATHLETIC Saturday 1st May 2021

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PETERHEAD FOOTBALL CLUB

Est. 1891

Address

Balmoor Stadium Balmoor Terrace Peterhead AB42 1EQ

Telephone Email Official Website Facebook Twitter

01779 478256 office@peterheadfc.co.uk www.peterheadfc.org @peterheadfc @pfcofficial

Scottish League Div 2 Champions 2013/14, 2018/19 Scottish League Div 3 Runners Up 2003/04, 2012/13 Scottish Challenge Cup Runners Up 2015/16 Chairman Directors

Rodger Morrison Michael Duncan Les Hill Charlie Watt

General Manager

Martin Johnston

Team Manager Assistant Manager Goalkeeping Coach Sprint Coach Physiotherapist Kit Man Assist. Kit Man Groundsman Assist. Groundsman Safety Officer

Jim McInally Davie Nicholls Jim Butter Stuart Hogg Gregg Smith Jock Morrice Marco Alexander Stan Stephen Jason Gordon Craig Keir

Community Liaison

Nat Porter

Hon. Club Chaplain Hon. Club Doctor

Neil Cameron Dr. Iain Small

Bar & Catering Manager Match Day Announcer Office Administrator Accounts Assistant Blue Toon Talk Editor

Mary Buchan Graeme McLean Sharon Brown Mandy Davidson Ken Morton

BTT Contributors Duncan Brown, Sharon, Brown, Charles Buchan, Jamie Currie, Martin Johnston, Issac Buchan, David Reid, Glenn Moir, Peter Myers, Nat Porter, The Late George Ritchie, Craig Stewart. Please note that some of the views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Peterhead FC 3

by David Reid

This afternoon’s opponents Forfar Athletic haven’t had the best of fortunes this season with relegation to the 4th tier looking likely unless maximum points are picked up both today and Tuesday at home to East Fife. When the league resumed in the 1946–47 season Forfar found themselves in the C Division (a reconstituted Third Division) of the league. Promotion to the B Division was won in the 1948–49 season and the club remained in the B division and its successor Second Division until finally winning the divisional championship in the 1983–84 under manager Doug Houston. This was considerable progress from the 1973–74 season when the club finished bottom of the division. The late 1970s and the 1980s can probably be considered the club's most successful period – at the 4

end of the 1985–86 season the club were just one point below promotion to the Premier Division. This era also saw a succession of good cup runs, meeting Rangers in the League Cup semi-finals in 1977–78 (losing 5–2 after extra time)[10] and again in the Scottish Cup semi-finals at Hampden Park in the 1981– 82 competition, forcing a 0–0 draw in the first game and earning a replay which ended 3–1 to Rangers. In the 1986–87 Scottish Cup the club came within a few seconds of knocking Dundee United, then flying high after beating FC Barcelona at the Nou Camp, out of the cup in the quarter finals, but United scored to gain a replay, which they subsequently won.

Various kit colours were used throughout this period. In the 1950s and early 1960s, a green home strip was used. Later the team adopted lighter blue with varying

navy. The nickname "The Sky Blues" was introduced in the 1982–83 season to aid marketing, however it sometimes became confused with the nickname of English club Coventry City. The nickname was dropped by the club during the early 1990s, It is however still sometimes used by the media. Forfar Athletic Football Club are a Scottish semiprofessional football club from the town of Forfar, Angus. They are members of the Scottish Professional Football League and currently play in Scottish League One. They play their home games at Station Park, in the north end of Forfar.

explanation for the origins of the Loons' moniker is that the second string were younger than the first team, so over time people would say "I'm off to watch the Loons". Gary Irvine is now the man in charge at the Loons with former Aberdeen & St Johnstone assistant manager Tony Docherty recently arriving at Station Park as Irvine’s no2.

The club are nicknamed "the Loons" ('loon' is a Northern Scots word for a young man), although they are sometimes referred to as the "Sky Blues" (which the club stopped using in the early 1990s). One 5

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Jim praised his players for listening and learning as they defeated Clyde 3-0 at Balmoor just over 3 weeks after the Bully Wee had returned home with all three points from the same venue. Scott Brown’s penalty and a double from Hamish Ritchie took the Blue Toon to within one point of League 1 safety with McInally saying: “The first 2025 minutes was a continuation of the fine form that the players showed in the midweek win over Falkirk. Unfortunately we never got a goal during that period and the game became quite scrappy. The fiery pitch started affecting the game and whilst we were still creating the best chances I was wary of what happened against Clyde the last time out when we opened up too much and paid the price.” “We talked about that before the game and the players again showed what a good group they are as they obviously listened and acted on what they had been told. We got the penalty when Andy McCarthy was brought down after a clever turn in their box and after what happened at Forfar the other week I looked at Derek Lyle on the bench and said I wish you were playing!” “I did not have to worry as Scott Brown played a captain’s part by taking responsibility and slotting home from 12 yards. Hamish then added the second

but of course nothing is ever straightforward and Jason Brown got sent off.” “In terms of the two offences I cannot say that he did not deserve two yellow cards all I would say is that a Clyde player raked his studs down Jason’s leg in the first offence and a lot of people believed that was a sending off offence so Jason does have a degree of sympathy.” “Two nil with just over 20 minutes left can be an awkward position to be in if you lose a goal so we had to make a change. Bring Andy McDonald on was an easy goal however taking Andy McCarthy off wasn’t. He was playing well, as usual, however he had been booked and we could not risk going down to nine.” “Hamish then got the third goal and I was delighted for him and the team. it was quite a special moment and we have to thank Inverurie Locos for loaning him to us.” Jim added: “We are almost there in terms of the objectives we set ourselves but it is not a case of scrapping for survival as I am looking forward to seeing us play in the final three games.” 7

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GREEN LIGHT ON SIGNING TALKS! Peterhead manager Jim McInally was holding fire on discussions over new contracts with his squad until it was confirmed that the Blue Toon will be playing League 1 football next season. A fantastic 3-0 victory over Clyde on Saturday took the Balmoor team to within a point of avoiding the relegation play-offs with manager McInally remaining focused on games until that point, at least, has been secured. Speaking before the East Fife game on Thursday night, Jim said: “There is a scenario where Clyde and Dumbarton could both catch us so nothing has

been achieved as yet. We have built virtually a new squad this season and I am pleased with what I have seen from the boys. There is a good spirit in the squad and I am very keen to have discussions about next season.”

“However it would be wrong of me to tie the club and players to something and then see things change considerably. The boys know the position and hopefully we will get what we need at East Fife on Thursday and we can move things along.” Events on Thursday night at East Fife means that discussions may now commence!

RYAN RULED OUT! Peterhead manager Jim McInally has confirmed that left back Ryan Conroy will not feature in the Blue Toon’s final three games of the season due to an ankle injury. Ryan had featured in 20 games for the Balmoor men this season before having to come off injured in the first half of the game with Partick Thistle on April 10. The 33 year old tried to make a comeback last week in training however he felt discomfort in his ankle and manager McInally has now ruled him out of the

remaining post-split games against East Fife, Forfar and Dumbarton and any involvement in play-offs. Jim said: “Ryan was feeling good about coming back last week and he did some training. However as soon as the pace was stepped up he felt pain in his ankle and we stopped his training. He will not play again this season which is a disappointment to us as he has been a very steady player all season and a disappointment to Ryan as he was enjoying his football.”

DEL POPS IN FOR A 99! Peterhead’s veteran striker Derek Lyle recently called in to Pop’s Candy Store in Peterhead to witness the launch of their latest offering in the form of Bicocchi’s Ice Cream.

Derek, sporting his appropriately numbered and trademark No. 99 shirt when visiting the Ugie Street sweet shop which is renowned for its range of treats including crepes, milk shakes, waffles, and sweets. Also joining Del was teammate Simon Ferry and manager Jim McInally who were only too willing to sample the products. Shop owner Marco Alexander, who also doubles up as club kit man for the Blue Toon away fixtures was doubly delighted to be launching the renowned ice cream range and that the guys took the time out to slide in past to visit the shop!

PREMIER SPORTS TO SPONSOR LEAGUE CUP

The Scottish Professional Football League (the “SPFL”) and broadcaster Premier Sports today announced that the Scottish League Cup will henceforth be known as the ‘Premier Sports Cup’, in a deal spanning at least the next two seasons.

broadcaster of the Premier Sports Cup until at least the end of season 2026/27.

The title sponsorship of the League Cup comes through additional investment from Premier Sports.

Chief Executive of the SPFL Neil Doncaster said: “The first season’s coverage of the competition by Premier Sports has been a tremendous success, with St Johnstone FC lifting the cup for the first time in their history.

Today’s announcement also confirms Premier Sports have extended the term of their broadcast contract by a further two years and will now be exclusive

“It’s a very welcome endorsement of our game, especially at such a challenging time, that Premier Sports have agreed to extend the term of

their broadcast contract. For many years, our Cup has been a vital and exciting competition and the involvement of Premier Sports has certainly enhanced its prestige and awareness.

said: “We are delighted to be broadening our partnership with the SPFL and further investing in Scottish football with the extension of our current exclusive League Cup rights.

“I am also thrilled that Premier Sports are showing their further commitment and increased contribution to Scottish football by becoming the title sponsor of the Cup. The Premier Sports Cup offers a new and exciting promotional platform for both parties.”

"We have developed a strong presence in Scotland with coverage of both Cup competitions so it feels like a natural step to strengthen our commitment to the game by also becoming the title sponsor of the League Cup. We look forward to bringing fans the biggest games and best moments from the ‘Premier Sports Cup’ for the next six years.”

Premier Sports Director of Operations Richard Webb

A story of football in Peterhead from 1946 and including other aspects of life enjoyed by children brought up during and immediately after the 39-49 war years. “Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory” was first serialised in the Buchan Observer in 2002 and we are delighted that Blue Toon Talk brings you the Late George Ritchie’s wonderful account of his memories to a whole new generation of Blue Toon fans.

PART 44c –

Registrations, Good Guys…, Bad Guys

Before closing on this issue, I have to say I had the greatest of respect for Jimmy Brown. He had, in my view, almost single handed kept the Broch from going under in what was the club’s darkest years. Their resurgence under Jim Adams and manager Charlie Duncan might never of happened without the likes of Jimmy Brown and his then Board keeping the listing ship afloat. Peterhead finished the season by winning the Aberdeenshire Cup for the fourth successive year, beating Deveronvale 2-0 at the Rec. We also managed a 4th spot finish in the League. The cup winning team was: Connell; Duthie, Ross, Milne, Anderson, Newlands, Christie, Watt, Hunter, Macrae, and Morris. During the close season the club made a visit to our twin town of Aalesund in Norway. We played two games, one against Aalesund winning 1-0, and the second a 3-0 win against Molde. Kenny Roger had just signed from Fraserburgh and luckily 12

made the trip when Kenny McKen pulled out because of his college exams. I wasn’t on the tour and had to perform the sad task of wiring Ally Christie that his brother Jimmy’s son James had died in a tragic boating accident during a Sea Cadet Regatta at Stonehaven. The 1971-72 squad included 16 year old Willie Miller on loan from Aberdeen. Willie, then a centre forward finished the season as the club’s leading goalscorer. It has always been a proud boast of Peterhead fans that such a future Scottish “great” had at one time, played for Peterhead. Andy Kerr also joined Willie from the Dons. The Aberdeenshire Cup was retained for a record fifth time. The following team beat Huntly 2-0 at Recreation Park: Connell; McKen, Ross, Milne, Anderson, Pirie, Kerr, Duthie, Miller, Hunter, and L. Duncan. Scorers: Miller and Newlands.

Towards the end of the season I had my first serious fall out with the person I looked up to most, Arthur Buchan. Elgin had arranged an end of season friendly at home to Halifax Town, the English club having finished their season early. The Elgin secretary phoned Arthur to find out the possibility of Dougal Summers playing for them, the reason he gave was they had some players injured. Arthur came to see me on the Friday morning and asked for my opinion. I told him I could not agree.

rejection of the proposal. I told Arthur my decision had nothing to do with Dougal Summers playing for Elgin, but more importantly because the decision had not gone through the democratic procedures required by Boardroom ‘decision making.’ I had great respect for Arthur and Club President Bill Lawrie, regarding them as my mentors in the early days of my Committee work. I decided not to return then, but that decision had more to do with events outside football.

We had a game against Rothes on the Saturday and that apart, I was of the view Elgin’s motive was that if Dougal came up to expectations they would sign him at the end of the season. Arthur was not pleased with my decision and left to contact other committee members.

I had returned to the fold for season ‘72-73 when Aberdeen player John McMaster was on loan McMaster was on loan to the club and Tommy Corkan had been signed from Elgin City. The season was very disappointing with again no silverware and a 7th spot finish in the League. A two nil defeat away to Fraserburgh in the Aberdeenshire Cup at Bellslea was especially disappointing to myself. (When was it never?) At the meeting on the Monday prior to the game I suggested a win bonus for the players might be appropriate. My proposal was rejected by majority decision and on the basis that a bonus was likely to be paid for a possible final appearance. My vie was first we had to reach the final and if so the prestige of winning the cup would be all the incentive necessary. A bonus for winning through to the Final was, I thought the better option. My view was defeated. I was some time later upset by an unsavoury incident when a committee colleague purchased a large number of tickets for a Scotland v England game and then failed to pay the Treasurer. The matter dragged on for months. It was not an inconsiderable amount of money.

The press on the Saturday morning included Dougal’s name in the report of Elgin’s match against Halifax. I assumed my opinion had not been shared by a majority of board colleagues and accepted the decision. At our match against Rothes that day I asked board member Alf Strachan if he had agreed with Dougal playing for Elgin, he replied saying that his opinion had not been sought. His answer prompted me to ask other committee members of their views on the matter. I discovered that Bill Lawrie and Harry Sutherland and myself had been the only ones consulted. It was then the custom to hold impromptu after match meetings in the Development Club office. On this occasion I raised the “Summers” situation, and told Mr. Lawrie it appeared to me that only three committee men had made the decision. Arthur interrupted and told me, “You want to run everything!” I replied, “No Arthur, but I do want everything run properly!” I was hurt and extremely disappointed by Arthur’s comment and immediately informed Mr. Lawrie that he would have my resignation in writing by Monday. It was typical of Arthur that he should call to see me the following day and to ask if I would reconsider my resignation decision. He told me he had more or less committed Dougal’s availability to Elgin’s secretary Mr. Ross and was taken aback by my

After several requests for payment, the Committee finally, imposed a resignation threat. The committee member did finally come up with the payment. Because I had penned the letter informing him of the Committee’s feeling on the subject, the gentleman in question later accosted me in public and told me with a degree of aggression, that he would not accept the decision of a “kangaroo court.” It was not a pleasant experience, although I did have sympathy with his “kangaroo court” jibe. 13

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It’s been an up and down, stop start sort of season but it does look like that this is the last programme of the current campaign. With that in mind, it’s incredible to think that we have managed to produce 14 digital issues. The programme has gone from strength to strength this season with continuing positive feedback from other clubs and fans as well as our own fans. This means that the present format will continue for next season and there are already plans made to improve the reading experience as well as a design freshen up and some new quality articles. I would like to give thanks and special mention to a few regular contributors throughout the season. Jamie Currie does some good work seeking out players to interview and will be back next season speaking to new and current players within the squad. David Reid has provided the programme with some coverage on the visitors which has been a great help as has Isaac Buchan who provides some in depth analysis on current football debates. Peter Myers has continued to provide some excellent historical articles throughout the season. This has prompted us to receive a few comments on how refreshing it is to read a programme that has original material. So enjoy your summer and we will be back at the start of the new season to provide you more information and analysis from your favourite North East football club.

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MATCH REPORT

PETERHEAD 3-0 CLYDE Saturday 24th April 2021 • SPFL1 Peterhead picked up their best win of the season by seeing off Clyde 3-0 at Balmoor with skipper Scott Brown bagging a penalty and Hamish Ritchie helping himself to a brace. The win puts League 1 safety within sight however a point is still required to ensure that everyone can sleep easy at night. Manager Jim McInally gave Lenny Wilson the nod to start in goal with Kyle Bailey keeping his place in central defence after his display in the midweek win over Falkirk. Simon Ferry was giving a starting role in place of Jordon Brown who made the substitute’s bench. The Blue Toon started sprightly and trickery from Steven Boyd saw the striker create an opening however he sent his shot over the bar. Scott Brown curled a shot wide before Clyde threatened for the first time when David Goodwillie found Lewis Jamieson however Lenny Wilson was equal to his effort. Hamish Ritchie looked to give the hosts the lead with a long-distance drive on 11 minutes however his shot flashed wide of David Mitchell’s goal. Six minutes later Ritchie tried his luck from closer in however he was off-target again and as Peterhead continued to probe for an opening Boyd sent a freekick over the bar before trying to catch Mitchell out from 40 yards however neither effort brought a breakthrough. Former Peterhead defender Scott Rumsby met a Clyde corner on 31 minutes however his effort failed to trouble Wilson. The teams trooped off goalless at the

break however the opener came on 54 minutes from an unlikely source for Peterhead with Brown netting a spot-kick. Andrew McCarthy earned it by working himself clear on the touchline and referee Reid pointed to the spot when Kevin Nicoll slid in late on the midfielder. Captain Brown took responsibility and sent Mitchell one way and the ball the other to make it 1-0. The lead was doubled two minutes later when Jason Brown headed on a Kieran Freeman free-kick to Ritchie who took a touch before sliding the ball into the net. Jason Brown was harshly booked on 61 minutes and that was to prove an expensive booking as just three minutes later the defender fouled Jamieson and was dismissed. Manager McInally reshuffled his pack and took off McCarthy who had been booked earlier and brought on Andrew McDonald. Ritchie ensured that Clyde could not build up a head of steam as they looked to get back into the game when he scored a delightful goal on 73 minutes. Craig Howie was short with a pass-back and Ritchie was onto the ball in a flash and he danced his way into the visitors box before firing in to seal the three points. Peterhead – Wilson, Strachan, Jordon Brown, Bailey, Freeman, Ferry, Scott Brown, McCarthy (McDonald 65), Ritchie, Boyd (Jordon Brown 74), Payne (Lyle 80 ) Unused substitutes – Rae, Armour, Kesson, McGrath 17

TODAY’S REFEREE: ASST. REFEREE 1: ASST. REFEREE 2:

PETERHEAD Ben ARMOUR Kyle BAILEY Steven BOYD Jason BROWN Jordon BROWN Scott BROWN Ryan CONROY Alan COOK Simon FERRY Gary FRASER Kieran FREEMAN

Derryn KESSON Derek LYLE Andy McCARTHY Andy McDONALD Kieran McGRATH Niah PAYNE Joshua RAE Hamish RITCHIE Danny STRACHAN Lenny WILSON

SQUADS Mike RONCONE Andy MILNE Gary HANVIDGE

FORFAR ATHLETIC Jordan ALLAN Grant ANDERSON Michael ANDERSON Steven ANDERSON Bernard COLL Steven DORIS Scott FENWICK Mark HILL Daniel HOBAN Graeme HOLMES Gary IRVINE Murray MacKINTOSH Marc McCALLUM

Ross MEECHAN Callum MOORE Andy MUNRO Roberto NDITI Jordan NORTHCOTT Daniel SCALLY Jimmy SCOTT Scott SHEPHERD Archie THOMAS Hamish THOMSON Michael TRAVIS Darren WHYTE

SPFL1 RESULTS ● SPFL1 TABLE ● TODAY’S FIXTURES First Stage of Season (Matches 1-18)

Second Stage of Season (Matches 19-22) TOP 5

HOME \ AWAY AIR CLY COV DUM EAS FAL FOR MON PAR PET

HOME \ AWAY AIR COV FAL MON PAR

Airdrieonians

- 5:0 1:1 0:2 2:0 2:1 3:1 0:1 2:4 2:0

Clyde 2:4 -

1:1 0:1 1:3 0:3 3:0 3:2 1:0 0:2

Cove Rangers 2:0 2:3 -

Falkirk

2:1 0:3 0:1 0:0 0:2 0:1

East Fife 2:0 1:0 0:0 2:1 -

Montrose -

2:1 2:0 2:2 2:2 2:1

Falkirk 0:1 2:1 1:0 1:1 2:0 -

2:1 -

Cove Rangers

1:0 3:1 2:0 3:0 1:2 1:0 1:0

Dumbarton 0:1 1:0 1:0 -

Airdrieonians

- 2:2

2:2 0:2

Partick Thistle 1:1 -

5:0

1:1 2:0 0:0 2:1

Forfar Athletic 1:3 1:3 0:1 0:0 1:2 0:2 -

Second Stage of Season (Matches 19-22) BOTTOM 5

2:3 0:2 1:1

Montrose 2:2 2:2 1:0 4:0 3:0 1:3 0:0 -

0:1 3:2

Partick Thistle 2:1 2:0 1:1 0:0 2:0 2:2 2:2 5:0 -

HOME \ AWAY CLY DUM EAS FOR PET

0:1

Clyde -

Peterhead 1:0 0:2 0:2 1:0 2:1 1:0 0:1 1:1 0:3 -

Dumbarton East Fife -

- 1:0

2:1 -

Forfar Athletic 2:1 Peterhead 3:0

1:3

SPFL1

POS. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Partick Thistle Cove Rangers Airdrieonians Falkirk Montrose East Fife Peterhead Dumbarton Clyde Forfar Athletic

P 21 21 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

HOME W D 6 4 7 1 6 1 5 4 4 3 7 3 5 1 4 1 3 1 1 2

TODAY'S FIXTURES PREMIERSHIP

LEAGUE 1

LEAGUE 2

Dundee Utd v Ro ss Co

Clyde v Dumbarto n

A lbion Ro v v B rechin

Hibernian v St Jo hnsto ne

Co ve Rangers v A irdrie

A nnan A th v Co wdenbeath

Livingsto n v A berdeen

Falkirk v M o ntrose

Edinburgh City v Elgin City

M o therwell v Kilmarno ck

P eterhead v Fo rfar A th

Stirling A lbion v Stranraer

St M irren v Hamilto n

L 1 2 3 1 3 1 4 5 5 7

F 22 18 19 13 16 18 9 5 11 8

A 7 8 11 7 12 11 10 9 16 18

AWAY W D 5 3 3 5 4 1 4 1 3 3 2 0 4 1 2 3 3 1 2 3

L 2 3 5 5 4 7 5 5 7 5

F 16 10 12 15 12 8 12 6 12 6

A GD PTS 8 23 40 8 12 36 13 7 32 15 6 32 18 -2 27 18 -3 30 12 -1 29 11 -9 22 21 -14 20 15 -19 14

FOOTBALL’S STRANGEST MATCHES TOAMASINA, MADAGASCAR, OCTOBER 2002

A score-line of 149-0 looks like it belongs in a one-sided cricket match but it also occurred when the Stade OIympique L’Emyrne (SOE) team staged a protest by scoring 149-0 own-goals and losing 149-0 to AS Adema. The SOE players were angry about a refereeing decision in their previous match when they had conceded a last minute equaliser to a disputed penalty. That 2-2 draw, against Domoina Soavina Atismondrano meant that AS Adema had won the Championship. The final match was no longer a showdown between SOE and AS Adema with the title at stake. The title was settled by a min-league in which the top four teams played each other over an 11 day period. Before the final game, with the title decided, the SOE coach organised the protest. Everyone was amazed when his players passed the ball to each other from kick off and scored the first own goal. On and on it went, own goal after own goal, until the referee did well to keep count. Angry spectators converged on the ticket booths to demand refunds. One SOE central defender went on to score 69 own goals making him a real contender for the golden own goal boot. There have been games where three accidental own goals have been scored in a match but deliberate own goals are very rare. It is possible that a player has scored an own goal when trying to lose a match on purpose. It has also been suggested that a deliberate own goal might act as an ethical solution to balance an unfair goal such as Arsenal’s second against Sheffield United in 1999. Dennis Evans (Arsenal) deliberately kicked the ball into his own net at the end of the 1955 match against Blackpool at Highbury but only because he thought he has heard the full-time whistle and was celebrating a 4-0 victory. A few moments later Arsenal won 4-1. Certain rules provoke players into planning own-goals. One example occurred in the Thailand v Indonesia Tiger Cup match of 1998. Both teams wished to finish second to avoid favourites Vietnam in the next round. With a few minutes left, the score at 2-2, Indonesia attacked their own goal. Despite fervent defence by Thailand, Indonesia’s goalkeeper got hold of the ball and threw it into his own net. The authorities punished the teams involved. An even stranger example occurred in the 1994 Shell Caribbean Cup. The rules stipulated that drawn group matches would be decided by Golden Goals. More interestingly, an extra time winning goal would count double in the for-and-against columns. In the preliminary round, Group 1 consisted of Barbados, Puerto Rico and Grenada. Puerto Rico beat Barbados 1-0 on the 23rd January and two days later Grenada beat Puerto Rico 1-0 with a Golden Goal which counted as double. When Barbados met Grenada on the 27th January, Barbados had to beat Grenada by at least two goals to win the group and qualify for the next round. taken from Football’s Strangest Matches (1999) Portico

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1937 1999

Governing and league bodies across men’s and women’s games join forces with clubs to cease activity on social media from 15:00 BST on Friday 30 April to 23:59 BST on Monday 3 May Scottish football has united to support a boycott of social media in response to continuing racist and discriminatory abuse online aimed at players, staff, supporters and others associated with the game. Clubs across the country will join the Scottish FA, Scottish Professional Football League, Scottish Women’s Football and PFA Scotland in switching-off all social media activity from 15:00 on Friday 30 April and will remain silent until 23:59 on Monday 3 May. Clubs are invited to take part by switching off their channels or ensuring any limited posting during that time include recognition of the campaign hashtag #FootballUnites. SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “Discrimination of any kind has absolutely no place in Scottish football and the online abuse received by some of those involved in our national game is absolutely abhorrent. The SPFL is committed to ensuring that Scottish football is inclusive and welcoming to all. “Players and supporters from diverse backgrounds have played, and continue to play, an enormously positive and valued role in our game. 26

Diversity is part of what makes Scottish football what it is, it should be protected and championed. “As a society, we all have a responsibility to stamp out abusive behaviour and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy football in this country without fear of receiving hate-filled messages online. “Social media provides a wonderful platform for clubs of all sizes to communicate with their fans. It’s a platform that our clubs have used to great effect in recent years but it is also a medium that is being abused by a vile and mindless minority. These cowards often hide behind anonymous accounts and it is incumbent upon social media companies to actively and aggressively combat this problem. “The SPFL will continue to work with our member clubs and partners, including Show Racism the Red Card, the Scottish FA and Police Scotland to drive home the message that there’s no place in our game for discrimination of any kind.” Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive: “The Scottish FA is encouraged that football has united against the growing scourge of online abuse and we are proud to

play our part in supporting the social media boycott. “Through the work of our Equality and Diversity Board we have set up Football Unites, an equality framework that underlines our commitment to fairness, justice, respect, inclusion and the removal of barriers. “At our recent summit meeting involving clubs and representatives of the game we witnessed a groundswell of people motivated to tackle inequality in all its forms. We are also in dialogue with social media companies to ensure adequate preventative measures are put in place to tackle the specific issue of online abuse via those channels.” Vivienne MacLaren, Scottish Women’s Football Chair: “The exposure the women's game continues to get across all media channels is extremely exciting for us all. What has sadly come along with this wider reach has been an increase in abusive and discriminatory language targeted at those involved in our game. This has been particularly prevalent on social media and we have made it very clear we will not tolerate this.

concerns of black and ethnic minority players and supporters. “Show Racism the Red Card is providing educational infographics to all clubs for use across their channels ahead of the boycott beginning. Supporters are encouraged to share these graphics in order to amplify the message and help educate as many people as possible on how to recognise online abuse, how to stay safe online, how to support victims of racism and how to report racism online. “With young people across the country still absorbing our players’ efforts to support the anti-racism movement, our education charity will back any stance that aims to create a society for our future generation free from racism. Social media can and must do more.”

“We hope that this action reminds media owners that they must stand up to this abusive behaviour and make perpetrators think twice.” Fraser Wishart, PFA Scotland Chief Executive: “PFA Scotland has long supported campaigns against all forms of discrimination and our members have kept the issues of racism and social injustice in the public eye this season. The social media boycott is another way for our members to continue to raise awareness around the issue. However, gestures alone are not enough: the abuse online by those hiding behind their keyboard must stop. “We call upon social media companies to engage in meaningful dialogue with a view to providing a mechanism to stop and report all forms of abuse to the relevant authorities. Comments can be hurtful to players and their families and have a profound effect on their lives. In 2021 our members deserve much better.” Show Racism the Red Card campaign manager Jordan Allison said: “Through social media, players are on the receiving end of targeted hatred on an almost daily basis. These deeply traumatising experiences are enabled by platforms that put the monetisation of footballers before their welfare. “Our charity fully supports this united stance from Scottish football and believes it should mark the beginning of a powerful campaign that urges social media companies and governing bodies to address the 27

in association with Tennents

Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Raith Rovers announced as joint winners of Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup The Scottish Professional Football League have announced that the final of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup will not take place and that Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Raith Rovers have been declared joint winners of the competition for Season 2019/20. Winners’ medals will be distributed to both clubs shortly.

Chief Executive of the SPFL Neil Doncaster said: “Sadly, the disruption caused by Covid-19 has meant that it has not been possible to stage the final of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup 2019/20. We held off for as long as we could to give us the best chance of staging the final in front of meaningful numbers of fans this season – but it just wasn’t feasible. “The SPFL Board has therefore declared Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Raith Rovers joint winners. On behalf of the SPFL, our sincere congratulations to both clubs, their players and coaching staff on becoming the first ever joint champions of the competition. “We are looking forward to the Challenge Cup resuming next season, when it will be known as the SPFL Trust Trophy, supported by money donated by philanthropists including James Anderson.

In the meantime, I would like to thank MG ALBA, Tunnock’s, and the Boards of both Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Raith Rovers for their flexible approach as well as for their patience and understanding in reaching this decision.” Director of Multiplatform Content for MG ALBA, Iseabail Mactaggart, said: “MG ALBA have very much enjoyed our association with the Challenge Cup since BBC ALBA first became the broadcaster of that competition in 2008. We congratulate all at Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Raith Rovers for being joint winners of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup 2019/20. We all missed the competition this season and we look forward to covering the SPFL Trust Trophy for Season 2021/22 later this year.” Chairman of Tunnock’s, Sir Boyd Tunnock, commented: “On behalf of Tunnock’s, I congratulate the players, staff and directors of Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC and Raith Rovers FC on becoming joint winners of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup. We have enjoyed our association with this unique competition and wish all the teams involved in next year’s competition the very best of luck.” 2 Inverness Caledonian Thistle Chief Executive Scot Gardiner said: “The Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup of Season 2019/20 was certainly a rollercoaster of a

competition, which for us culminated in the thrilling and controversial semi-final here at Caledonian Stadium v Rangers Colts. “At the end of that tie, we were second in the Championship and Raith Rovers were, I believe, leading League 1. This season’s Challenge Cup was not even played. Since that game was played, there has been such a long time between then and now and while we were originally happy to try and play the final subject to fans being allowed in, both squads have changed so dramatically that we no longer believe, if the game was to be played, that it would be fair to either set of players who fought so hard to reach the 2019/20 final.

Raith Rovers Chairman John Sim commented: “On behalf of everyone associated with Raith Rovers, I am delighted that we have been declared joint winners of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup. Whilst we are obviously disappointed that our fans and management team have missed out on the excitement of a final and the opportunity to win the cup outright, we understand that the moment has passed and that we should all now look forward.”

“We only have around five players left from that semi-final winning squad and we could even have the prospect of one of our players from that match being set to play against us. Subsequently, playing the rescheduled match from two seasons ago would mean that, unfortunately, cup sporting integrity would be long gone and accordingly, we feel that the best solution is to award both team squads from that season winners’ medals. For some of the players, they may not ever get the chance again to receive such a medal and we feel this is the fairest solution in unprecedented circumstances for all parties.”

HEAD

2 HEAD

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

WHO WILL WIN?

HOME WIN

DRAW

AWAY WIN

19/20

3/1

2/1

NB: All Odds subject to change

FORM

PETERHEAD

FORFAR ATHLETIC

29 APR 21 SPFL1

East Fife Peterhead

1 3

WON

29 APR 21 SPFL1

Forfar Athletic Clyde

2 1

WON

24 APR 21 SPFL1

Peterhead Clyde

3 0

WON

27 APR 21 SC 3

Dumbarton Forfar Athletic

1 0

LOST

20 APR 21 SPFL1

Peterhead Falkirk

1 0

WON

20 APR 21 SPFL1

Forfar Athletic Clyde

1 3

LOST

17 APR 21 SPFL1

East Fife Peterhead

2 1

LOST

16 APR 21 SC 4

Forfar Athletic Dundee United

0 1

LOST

PREVIOUS MEETINGS AT BALMOOR 06 APR 21 SPFL1

Peterhead Forfar Athletic

1 1

DRAW

28 NOV 20 SPFL1

Peterhead Forfar Athletic

0 1

AWAY WIN

25 FEB 20 SPFL1

Peterhead Forfar Athletic

1 1

DRAW

24 AUG 19 SPFL1

Peterhead Forfar Athletic

1 0

HOME WIN

20 MAY 17 Peterhead SPFL1 PLAY OFF Forfar Athletic

1 5

AWAY WIN

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MATCH REPORT EAST FIFE 1- 3 PETERHEAD Thursday 29th April 2021 • SPFL1 Peterhead got the job done in terms of securing their place in League 1 next season with the minimum of fuss and two games to spare when they came from behind to win 3-1 at East Fife. The Blue Toon fell behind to an Aaron Dunsmore goal however Derek Lyle showed he has lost none of his goal-scoring ability by levelling with first goals for the club for Andrew McDonald and Danny Strachan saw the three points head north. Lenny Wilson kept his place in goal however manager Jim McInally reshuffled his outfield line-up with McDonald starting in defence in place of the suspended Jason Brown with Brown’s sibling, Jordon, replacing Simon Ferry in midfield. There were also starts form Ben Armour and Derek Lyle with Derryn Kesson given the opportunity to show what he can do straight from kick-off with Hamish Ritchie, Steven Boyd and Niah Payne making way. The Fifers had a chance after 6 minutes when Aaron Dunsmore and Danny Swanson set up Greig Spence however he fired over and an offside flag would have come to Peterhead’s rescue had Spence found the net. Six minutes later the hosts created another opening however Ross Davidson was off target with Peterhead’s first chance coming with quarter of an hour gone when Scott Brown fed Kesson with the youngster firing wide. The opening goal came on 17 minutes and came for the hosts with Dunsmore picking up on a mistake in the visiting defence and slotting in from a tight angle. Peterhead looked to hit back quickly and Jordon Brown was not far away with a header from a Danny Strachan cross on 20 minutes with Kesson warming the hands of Jordan Hart with a stinging shot shortly afterwards. Andrew McCarthy was denied an equaliser on 32 minutes when he picked up on a Ross Dunlop error

and bore down on goal however Hart scampered from his line to save. Kyle Bailey headed a Davidson effort off the line on 41 minutes and Peterhead made the most of that reprieve by drawing level with the ‘fox in the box’ Derek Lyle scoring. A nice passing move allowed Ben Armour to progress deep into enemy territory and his cut back was perfect for 40 year old Lyle to do what he has been doing in senior football since 1999 and stroke the ball into the net. Within two minutes of the restart the game had turned around completely with the visitors going ahead after McCarthy robbed Scott Agnew of possession and was fouled at the edge of the box.

McDonald stepped up to take it and the defender sent a thumping shot flying into the net past a stunned Hart to claim his first goal since his move from Elgin City in January. It was East Fife’s time to try and hit back with Swanson firing an effort at Wilson’s goal on 55 minutes however the ball rose and cleared the bar. Manager McInally freshened things up with Armour and Lyle making way for Payne and Kieran McGrath and McGrath almost made an instant impact as he met a cross however his header failed to trouble Hart. A third goal came for Peterhead on 77 minutes and it had a made in the north-east stamp all over it as local boy Strachan exchanged passes with on-loan Inverurie Locos player Hamish Ritchie and Strachan moved towards the home goal before slotting in an angled drive. Peterhead – Wilson, Strachan, McDonald, Bailey, Freeman, Jordon Brown Ritchie 72), McCarthy, Scott Brown, Kesson (Boyd 72), Armour (Payne 64), Lyle (McGrath 64)

Unused substitutes – Rae, Ferry 35

IS IT TOO LATE FOR LENNON TO TURN THINGS ROUND? by ISAAC BUCHAN

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SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAM PLANS CONFIRMED FOR EURO 2020

The Scotland Men’s National Team will be based at Middlesbrough FC’s training complex in North-East England for the duration of UEFA EURO 2020.

“Playing Netherlands and Luxembourg beforehand allows us to prepare with two different styles of opposition.”

Scotland will play Netherlands in Portugal and travel to Luxembourg on 2 June and 6 June respectively to fulfil their two UEFA friendly fixture obligations. The squad will then stay on Teesside throughout the competition, with Rockliffe Park confirmed as the squad’s designated basecamp.

To ensure the best possible preparation, the Head Coach will also take Scotland to La Finca, Spain, from 27 May to 6 June, which will also incorporate the fixtures in Faro, Portugal, and Luxembourg City.

The base will allow ease of travelling to both Hampden Park for the Group D matches against the Czech Republic (Monday, 14 June, 2pm) and Croatia (Tuesday, 22 June, 8pm), and against England at Wembley Stadium (Friday, 18 June, 8pm). Oriam, the National Performance Centre for Sport in Edinburgh, was selected as designated base camp by Czech Republic prior to Scotland’s qualification via the play-off. Scotland Head Coach Steve Clarke believes the facilities at Middlesbrough’s training ground and adjacent Rockliffe Hall, the team hotel, will optimise the nation’s chances of success at the first major tournament for 23 years.

“For the players, this will have been one of the most intense seasons in their careers,” said Clarke. “Matches have been played behind closed doors and an already congested calendar has meant many – not least those whose clubs have enjoyed prolonged spells in European competition – will have played three games a week over many months. “When the domestic season ends there will be a mental and physical deficit to overcome in a short period of time and that’s why La Finca will be so important, in part due to the unpredictability of the weather in Scotland but also the close proximity of La Finca to the two matches we are obliged to play.”

“The most important aspect for me is that we give the players the best possible conditions to perform at EURO 2020: that includes the best possible training facilities available and making sure that travel plans are as efficient as they can be for the matches. “Rockliffe Park enables us to achieve all of that while also allowing the players to focus completely on doing the best they can without any distractions. 37

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“We were disappointed to miss out on a top-half finish” Jamie Currie speaks with Joshua Rae 20-year-old goalkeeper Joshua Rae was on the bench in the last two home matches, against Falkirk and the recent 3-0 win against Clyde but as the season is reaching it’s final day, the lad from Croy believes the team have had a successful season.

the mothballing, the late start and the stoppage. While Rae acknowledged that those factors were not ideal for any footballer in any of the league which were impacted by those situations, he admitted he was just glad to play the season out.

Rae insisted that the bond the players have in the dressing room was a key factor in the season being a good one.

“It’s not — ideal you want a complete full season but in these current times I would’ve taken it if I had been offered it at the start of the season. I feel like I was just starting to find a consistent level of form as the season got stopped, which was difficult but at least we’ve got to play 20 odd games this season which is a bonus.”

He said: “I think on our day the boys have been brilliant this season; everyone is together in the dressing room and everyone has given their all. We were disappointed to miss out on a top-half but I feel like we’ve had a good season.” The season has not been without its complications: 40

Rae revealed that he and his teammates, while they were content with how they did, were left with some regret at not making the top half. Rae admitted it was

possibly the team’s form in the early part of the season that led them to miss out. “The lads were disappointed,” Rae said. “If we had performed better earlier in the season and picked up more points against the lower teams, we would’ve probably found ourselves in the top half. We had a bit of a slow start but the quality in the dressing room was there.” Rae at the time had made 17 appearances this season and he found playing behind closed doors to be strange but he is taking the positives that he feels as if he has personally had a good season and is looking to push on and become better with more first-team experience.

“I have only experienced fans on a few occasions so I can’t compare too much, but the experiences I have had having no fans gives you a different feeling stepping out onto the pitch, it’s like being back playing academy football and given you are playing first-team football that has been frustrating. “Overall I feel like I’ve had a good season, especially with it being my first proper full season as a firstteam player. I’ve got areas where, as a goalkeeper, I need to work on and try to get better but at such a young age, I’ve got time to do so.”

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MATCH STATS ● APPEARANCES ● GOAL SCORERS n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

10-Oct 13-Oct 17-Oct 24-Oct 31-Oct 07-Nov 10-Nov 14-Nov 21-Nov 28-Nov 05-Dec 12-Dec 19-Dec 26-Dec 02-Jan 20-Mar 23-Mar 27-Mar 30-Mar 06-Apr 10-Apr 17-Apr 20-Apr 24-Apr 29-Apr 01-May 04-May

Opponents Dundee United Brechin City Airdrieonians Cove Rangers Clyde Montrose Kelty Hearts St Johnstone Dumbarton Forfar Athletic Falkirk East Fife Partick Thistle Montrose Cove Rangers Airdrieonians Stenhousemuir Dumbarton Clyde Forfar Athletic Partick Thistle East Fife Falkirk Clyde East Fife Forfar Athletic Dumbarton

Away Home Away Home Away Away Away Home Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away

F 1 3 0 0 2 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 3 3

A 0 1 2 2 0 3 1 3 0 1 2 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 1 3 2 0 0 1

1 Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Wilson Wilson Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Rae Wilson Wilson Wilson

2 Mulligan Bailey Freeman Freeman Freeman Freeman Freeman Bailey Bailey Bailey Bailey Bailey Bailey Freeman Freeman Freeman Bailey Freeman Freeman Freeman Freeman Strachan Strachan Freeman Strachan

3 4 Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown Freeman J.C. Brown Freeman Ferry J. Brown Freeman MacKenzie J.C. Brown MacKenzie J.C. Brown MacKenzie J.C. Brown J.C. Brown Mackenzie Conroy J.C. Brown Conroy J.C. Brown J.C. Brown Freeman J.C. Brown McDonald McDonald J.C. Brown J.C. Brown McDonald J.C. Brown McDonald J.C. Brown McDonald Bailey J.C. Brown Strachan Bailey McDonald Bailey

5 Bailey MacKenzie MacKenzie Bailey Bailey Bailey Bailey Conroy Conroy Conroy Freeman Freeman Freeman Bailey Ferry Bailey Conroy Conroy Conroy Conroy Conroy Freeman Freeman J.C. Brown Freeman

6 Ferry Ferry Ferry S. Brown S. Brown S. Brown S. Brown S. Brown Fraser Cameron Conroy Fraser Fraser Ferry S. Brown McCarthy Kesson Ritchie Ferry Ritchie Ritchie Ritchie Ritchie Ferry J.A. Brown

7 8 McCarthy S. Brown McCarthy S. Brown McCarthy S. Brown Cook McCarthy Cook McCarthy Cook McCarthy Cook McCarthy Ferry McCarthy McCarthy S. Brown S. Brown Fraser Fraser S. Brown McCarthy S. Brown Ferry S. Brown Cook Fraser Cook McCarthy Ritchie S. Brown S. Brown McDonald Ferry S. Brown S. Brown Ritchie Ferry S. Brown Ferry S. Brown Ferry S. Brown S. Brown McArthy S. Brown Payne McCarthy S. Brown

9 10 11 Layne Boyd Armour Layne 2 Boyd Armour Layne Boyd Bailey Cameron Boyd Lyle Fraser Cameron Boyd Fraser Cameron Armour 2 Fraser Cameron Armour Fraser Boyd Armour Boyd Armour Cook McCarthy Boyd Armour McCarthy Boyd Cook Conroy Cameron Boyd Conroy Boyd Layne Cameron S. Brown Boyd Cameron Boyd J.A. Brown Layne J.A. Brown Payne McArthy Payne Layne McArthy Payne Armour Boyd McArthy Armour McArthy Armour Boyd J.A. Brown Payne Boyd McArthy Lyle Boyd J.A. Brown Boyd Payne Boyd Ritchie 2 McCarthy Kesson Armour Lyle

Substitutes Wilson, McKenzie, Lyle, Fraser, Cook, Kesson, Cameron Wilson, Cook, Freeman, Lyle, Cameron, Kesson Wilson, Cook, Freeman, Lyle, Cameron, Kesson Layne, Kesson, Wilson Armour,Kesson,Bakar (T), Wilson, Lyle Ferry, Boyd, Kesson, Bakar (T), Trialist, Wilson, Lyle Ferry, Boyd, Kesson, Bakar, Lyle Cook, Kesson, Cameron, Bakar, Lyle Layne, Kesson, Cameron, Bakar, Trialist, Wilson, Lyle MacKenzie, Cook, Kesson, Bakar, Wilson, Lyle Kesson, Cameron, Bakar, Wilson, Lyle Layne, Cook, Kesson, Bakar, Wilson, Lyle Cook, McCarthy, Kesson, Cameron, Bakar, Wilson, Lyle Layne, Kesson, Bakar, Wilson, Lyle MacKenzie, Kesson, Bakar, Wilson Wilson, Armour, Lyle, Kesson, Strachan Armour, J.A. Brown, Strachan, McGrath, Wilson Layne, Boyd, Kesson, J.A. Brown, Strachan, McGrath, Wilson, Baillie, Lyle

Payne, Kesson, J.A. Brown, Strachan, McGrath, Wilson, Bailey, Lyle Payne, Kesson, J.A. Brown, Strachan, McGrath, Wilson, Bailey, Lyle Armour, Kesson, Strachan, McGrath, Wilson, Bailley, Lyle Payne, Armour, Kesson, J.A. Brown, McGrath, Wilson, Bailey Rae, Ferry, Armour, Kesson, McGrath, Lyle Rae, McDonald, Armour, Kesson, J.A. Brown, McGrath, Lyle Rae, Ferry, Ritchie, Boyd, Payne, McGrath

KEY - n SPFL n Betfred League Cup n Tunnocks Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup n Scottish Cup BOLD NAME = Goalscorer ITALIC NAME = Penalty

SHOTS GOALS CONCEDED CLEAN SHEETS GOALS SHOTS ON TARGET FOULS CONCEDED YELLOW CARDS RED CARDS

Partick Thistle

Clyde

Airdrieonians

Forfar Athletic

Cove Rangers

Montrose

Falkirk

East Fife

Montrose

Airdrieonians

East Fife

Falkirk

Clyde

Peterhead

Dumbarton

Forfar Athletic

Cove Rangers

Dumbarton

Partick Thistle

GOALS GOALS CONCEDED CLEAN SHEETS SHOTS SHOTS ON TARGET FOULS CONCEDED YELLOW CARDS RED CARDS

Partick Thistle

254

Cove Rangers

242

Dumbarton

Falkirk

238

Falkirk

Airdrieonians

209

Peterhead

Montrose

188

Montrose

East Fife

186

Airdrieonians

Peterhead

180

East Fife

Dumbarton

149

Forfar Athletic

Clyde

147

Clyde

Forfar Athletic

121

GOALS GOALS CONCEDED CLEAN SHEETS SHOTS SHOTS ON TARGET FOULS CONCEDED YELLOW CARDS RED CARDS

Partick Thistle

115

Falkirk

273

Falkirk

108

Peterhead

251

Cove Rangers

106

Dumbarton

238

Peterhead

East Fife

237

Airdrieonians

Forfar Athletic

236

Montrose

Cove Rangers

220

East Fife

Montrose

330

Clyde

Partick Thistle

211

Dumbarton

Clyde

203

Forfar Athletic

Airdrieonians

199

GOALS GOALS CONCEDED CLEAN SHEETS SHOTS SHOTS ON TARGET FOULS CONCEDED YELLOW CARDS RED CARDS

Peterhead

Forfar Athletic

East Fife

Falkirk

Montrose

Partick Thistle

Clyde

East Fife

Cove Rangers

Dumbarton

Airdrieonians

Forfar Athletic

Dumbarton

Montrose

Clyde

Partick Thistle

GOALS SHOTS ON TARGET CLEAN SHEETS SHOTS GOALS CONCEDED FOULS CONCEDED YELLOW CARDS RED CARDS

Peterhead

Airdrieonians

5 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

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JAMES BLACK 1885-1951

It is often the case within these pages that the focus tends to be on players rather than officials, so I aim to buck this trend by focussing on former club secretary of Forfar Athletic, Mr James Black. From 1885 until 1951 he served at Station Park in many a capacity and was a life servant to the ‘Loons’ until his death in 1951. In a town and a generation rich in characters, James Black, was a personality whose influence and reputation extended far beyond the bounds of his native ‘toonie’. James did not always have the dubious quality of ‘suffering fools gladly’ and occasionally he had not his troubles to seek with players made temperamental by excessive newspaper praise or condemnation. Neither was it easy to run a community football club of which every season ticket holder was a member and a share of them selfconfessed experts on how to pick a player or run a team. James was a little bit dictatorial on occasion – and not always right – but in the long run he was usually justified. Certainly, he carried the Athletic on his shoulders for more years than most people would 46 26

care to count. He was made of stout stuff or he could not have endured for so long the nerve-racking business of running a football team – often on a shoestring. In his fifty years as secretary of Forfar Athletic Football Club, he had a proud record of serving in an unpaid capacity. He had a good approach to young players and quickly gained their confidence as a man who took a personal interest and could be depended upon to carry out his promises. He knew the game and was a keen judge of a player’s potential. His discoveries included many national and international reputations of whom Dave McLean, Alec Troup, Frank Hill, George McLean, George Langlands, Willie Cook and George Henderson were outstanding. However, his influence in football extended far beyond the confines of Forfar. He was known and respected by a long line of football legislators, among whom in later years he was dubbed ‘The Grand Old Man’. He enjoyed what he did as a member of the Scottish Football Association. The travelling hither and thither in search for talent for representative elevens; the journeys to the continent and elsewhere; and

the people he met in connection with international matches. These and such like healthy distractions helped prolong his life well beyond the Psalmist’s allotted span. Despite his tough shell which he often presented to the outer world, he was innately gentle and kindly. As a J.P. (Justice of the Peace) he was often called upon to assist his fellow citizens with many forms and other bureaucratic troubles of the modern world. To old age pensioners and the like, he was particularly helpful as long as his health permitted and for many years he was a parish councillor. However, Sport, and particularly football, was his abiding interest and he certainly kept Forfar on the map in these fields. For years he was secretary of the Forfar Games and brought ‘to the toonie’ many of the great stars of the running, cycling, jumping and dancing world. The Games also drew the best of Highland Games heavyweights including the great Donald Dinnie. Jim Black’s funeral was one of the most outstanding ever seen in the town. Among the dignitaries present

were Harry Swan of Hibernian, Vice-Chairman of the S.F.A., George Graham, Secretary of the S.F.A., Jimmy McGrory of Celtic, George Anderson of Dundee, Dave Halliday of Aberdeen, Pat Travers of Clyde, Willie McIntosh of Dundee United and Peter Craigmyle representing the Referees Association. Over one hundred cars formed the cortege as he was carried to his grave by Derek McKenzie, Eddie Falconer, Eric Harper and John Lawrence while George Shepherd and Bob Boath were among those with the cords. That would have pleased him. As a footnote, in 2019, the S.F.A. awarded 84 year old Larry Barilli ‘Best Volunteer to Adult Football’ for his 66 year service association with the amateur scene, making him one of the longest serving managers in British Football. In his career, he has managed seven teams in the Greenock area since 1953. Current Forfar Director, David McGregor is running Larry close having been involved all his life with the Station Park side. He joined in 1964 as Secretary of the Junior Supporters Club and has held a number of positions since. He became a Director in December 1983.

Angus Athletic 1884-85 team group showing player James Black, extreme right, on the middle row. Forfar Athletic were formed at the end of this season

27 47

The official club shop is located in the main office and is open on a non matchday. A wide variety of club merchandise and souvenirs are available and in stock to purchase. We are awaiting delivery of more stock as only a handful of tops remain.

Home/Away Shirts Adult Youth Junior

£49 £45 £39

Home/Away Shorts Adult Youth Junior

£28 £26 £22

Home/Away Socks 6.5-12 13.5-6

£13 £11

Training T-Shirts/Shorts Age 13-14 Ages 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12

£22/£13 £18/£12

Pin Badges Scarf (Blue) Scarf (Stripe) Squad Snood Water Bottle Wooly Hat Pom Pom Hat Santa Hat Mugs Pint Glass Air Freshner Car Sticker Money Box Metal Keyring Plastic Keyring Fob Keyring Bottle Opener Snoods

£3 £8 £8 £15 £2 £7 £10 £5 £10 £10 £2 £2 £7 £2.50 £1.50 £2.50 £2.50 £10

41 49

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LET BATTLE COMMENCE! FIRST LEG Tuesday 4 May (1st leg)

Brora Rangers v Kelty Hearts Dudgeon Park, kick-off 7.00pm The Scottish FA and Scottish Professional Football League have confirmed that the Play-Off Match will go ahead between Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts, and that the Pyramid Play-Off Match against SPFL Club 42 will also take place.

Having established that Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts have been correctly identified as league champions of the Highland and Lowland Leagues respectively - and the SPFL having determined that they both satisfy its Membership Criteria.

The governing and league bodies sought legal clarification, overseen by a judge, on the correct interpretation of the Pyramid Play-Off Competition Rules, which are embedded in the respective rules of each of the SPFL, the Scottish Highland and Lowland Football Leagues.

A draw also took place by the Scottish FA to establish that Brora Rangers will play at home against Kelty Hearts in the first leg of the Highland and Lowland League Play-Off tie.

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive, said:

PYRAMID PLAY-OFFS WILL GO AHEAD AFTER LEGAL APPROVAL

SECOND LEG Saturday 8 May

Kelty Hearts v Brora Rangers New Central Park, kick-off 3.00pm “The principle of the Scottish football pyramid is of huge importance to the integrity of open competition. It was vital, given the implications for all three clubs, that the respective organisations took all practicable steps to ensure that the play-offs could take place. “We are delighted that the decision by the judge corresponded with the view of the Scottish FA and provides the necessary clarity to the league bodies and certainty to those clubs affected.” Neil Doncaster, Chief Executive of the SPFL, said: “Like

so many aspects of our sport, both the clubs and the SPFL have been in uncharted territory as a result of the disruption caused by COVID-19. We are 100% committed to the principle of the sporting pyramid but were understandably keen to ensure that any decisions reached were both fair and in accordance with the rules and agreements of all four organisations. “We therefore worked with the Scottish FA to conduct an arbitration in front of a senior judge and are very pleased that the position has been definitively clarified, and that this season’s Pyramid Play-Off Matches will proceed as normal.”

Forfar’s Grandstand Finish by Peter Myers There is a fascinating tale about Forfar Athletic’s Station Park in Steve Finan’s evocative book, Lifted over the turnstiles, Scotland’s football grounds in the black and white era. A storm wrecked the ground’s Victorian grandstand on the night of February 4-5, 1957 and so began a fundraising campaign to replace it with a new stand. A year later, the Loons were drawn at home against Rangers in the second round of the Scottish Cup, the first time Forfar had played the Light Blues in a competitive match. The old stand was patched up for the tie, but the result turned out to be an embarrassing 1-9 defeat for the home side. Work continued on the new grandstand until it was interrupted by the winter weather and then, as fate would have it, Forfar were again drawn at home against the Gers on January 31, 1959 in the Scottish Cup’s first round. The club had just six weeks to complete the stand. A team of volunteers defied the weather and pulled out all the stops to get it finished in time for the match. Their reward was tickets in the stand for the clash with Rangers.

Eric Caldow

As the end of January approached, some games were postponed because of frozen pitches, but Forfar were determined the cup-tie should go ahead. It was reported that 40 tons of sand were spread on the pitch and in some places it was 2in thick. Bob Battes, the Forfar secretary, told Evening Times football writer Gair Henderson: “It’s not often we have a team of Rangers’ class in Station Park, and we wanted to see them at their best.” Henderson wrote a match report which appeared in his newspaper’s Saturday night’s sports issue. It was written in a vivid style to grab the reader’s attention and typical of the time. The scribe was also a trifle patronising towards the Forfar team who were up against the city slickers from Glasgow: “The Forfar boys were by no means as green as their jerseys and Brodie, Dick and tiny Cormie had the entire Rangers’ defence in trouble and kicking out anywhere for safety. What Forfar could not do themselves Eric Caldow did for them in 17min. A long cross from the right and Eric lashed out with a wild right foot, smashing the ball past Niven into the back of the net.” He followed up his report with his reflections on the game in Monday’s paper: “Nevertheless, and despite the wonderful Forfar efforts, good football was an impossibility. It’s no secret that the Rangers officials and the Rangers players were not only filled with admiration but highly delighted with the efforts which the little Second Division club had made to give the best possible footing.”

The sports writer continued in a similar vein: “It seems to me grossly unfair that individuals and teams should be criticised when the going is so dreadful and so much against reasonable football. Rangers, in these circumstances, had good reason to be pleased with the result and Forfar were more than happy they had not been disgraced.”

Henderson “admired immensely” the Loons’ “we have nothing to lose” attitude. He wrote that they tackled quickly but forgot about marking their opponents when the ball was in the air: “That was when Rangers won! Nobody was near Max Murray, Jimmy Millar or Alec Scott when, in that order, they headed in the all-important goals. On a decent footing Caldow would never have sliced Forfar’s one and only goal past Niven who had scarcely one other direct shot to save in the 90min.” For the record, the teams were: Forfar Athletic – MacKay; Steen, Berrie; Brown, Ogilvie, Buchan; Rodger, Cormie, Craig, Brodie, Dick. Rangers – Niven; Shearer, Caldow; Davis, Telfer, Stevenson; Scott, McMillan, Murray, Millar, Matthew. Forfar goalkeeper Donald MacKay went on to have a long career with Dundee United and was later manager of Dundee.

Donald MacKay

Forfar hosted Rangers again in the Scottish Cup on February 2, 1970. The weather was kinder this time, but the score was much less respectable for the Loons after the Gers skelped them 7-0. Skipper John Greig got a brace, Kai Johansen chipped in with a penalty while Alex MacDonald, Andy Penman, Sandy Jardine and Colin Stein each netted once. The 10,780 spectators who were shoehorned into Station Park proved to be a record home attendance for the Angus side. Under the guidance of player/manager Archie Knox, the Loons relinquished their under-performing past and began to show they were a team to be reckoned with. The Loons’ most memorable performance, which brought them national attention, was in the Scottish League Cup semi-final at Hampden Park on February 27, 1978. Severe frost and then fog had prevented the semi-final from being played on November 28 and further bad weather had led to its postponement to February. Earlier that month, on Saturday 11th, only two matches started in Scotland including Forfar’s home clash with Stranraer which was abandoned after 35min because of the wintry weather. The Angus side had already eliminated Meadowbank Thistle, Ayr United and Queen of the South in the League Cup before they met Rangers in the semi-final. Knox’s part-timers gave the Gers a scare when they needed a late equaliser to draw 22 at full-time, but brave Forfar were knocked out after conceding three goals in extra-time. The Loons’ plucky and skilful performance won them many admirers, although the result was a particular disappointment for their captain, Alex Rae, who had already lifted the League Cup when he skippered Partick Thistle to their astonishing 4-1 victory over Celtic in October 1971. Station Park’s grandstand has stood for more than 60 years now and has witnessed the high and lows of the Loons’ fortunes. It also symbolises local residents’ strong sense of community spirit and who are prepared to rally round to help clubs, like Forfar Athletic, in their hour of need.

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