2008...

Looking back on 2008 it has been something of a mixed year. We started off the new year looking like we could put together a challenge for a play off spot, but two insipid performances against Arbroath and Dumbarton that resulted in one – nil defeats meant that it proved to be too little too late. Nevertheless, the one bright spot was the introduction of Robert Love to the first team and he has been a bright star, albeit one that has not had as many opportunities to shine as I certainly had hoped for this season. The new season has been quite unusual. For a period it looked like we were going to stroll to the title, without looking all that impressive if truth be told. In typical John Coughlin style, our defence looked, and continues to look, impenetrable. Up until the last two matches, we had managed to score in every league match which meant that more often than not we were guaranteed at least one point (i.e. the opposition would have to score twice to beat us) Now, we seem to have hit our bad patch that all teams do at least once during the season although the reality is that we haven’t played well for quite some time now but our big lead meant that we have managed to keep our noses in front going in to 2009. How do we turn it around? The back four of Lyle, Smith, Ovenstone and McGroarty seemed to be working a treat, but since Smith regained fitness it’s as if Coughlin is trying to fit Gary Thom anywhere into the team on the basis he doesn’t deserve to be dropped. I think he just needs to bite the bullet and give Gary a rest. No doubt there will be suspensions in the future which means Gary will get plenty opportunities in the future. As for suspensions; we have had too many. Particularly in midfield where key players (Motion and Ferguson) have been missing for periods of time. We need the stability back of a regular midfield quartet and therefore need to cut out the stupid bookings and sending offs. Up front, we need a new striker to play with Dalziel, or to play instead of him if the stories about his injury problems are to be believed. Without the support of Brand the goals have dried up for Dalziel and I feel that we need to have, effectively, a better alternative to Steve Hampshire. I think the next few weeks will be critical for us. We really need to start putting together some decent performances. Another long unbeaten run would potentially be all that is needed to win the title as there is no doubt that this is a very competitive league with almost anyone capable of getting a play off place.

London calling...

Some considerable time has passed since I last posted: having finished my studies and entered the real world, my time has been occupied by moving to London and starting a new job. As such, the distance of my 'commute' to Ochilview has lengthened once again, though I look forward to attempting it sometime early in the New Year.

Fortunately, however, whilst I have 'gone South,' our league form has done nothing of the sort. The defeat at Berwick was forgiveable, if only because there seems to be an unwritten rule that the supposedly rubbish teams always give us our most difficult games - Elgin in October, anyone? Last week's victory over Albion, of course, put us back on track - though having misread a thread on the Fans' Forum, I must confess to being a tad confused when I saw the teamsheets. I was under the impression that - rather than signing for Albion Rovers - Marc McCusker and Marco Andreoni had signed for us. At least they didn't inspire their new side to victory!

After our clash with the Shire, as ever, I was greatly amused by the highlights on ShireTV. Their commentator's latest wheeze seems to have taken the form of a vendetta against Craig McEwan. First he is accused of 'bodychecking' Shire striker Andy Rodgers, then we are told that the referee's failure to award a penalty against him was 'the moment that changed the game': why the commentator thought it was a penalty is anybody's guess. The incident which led to the sending-off of Shire's Paul Hay, meanwhile, is entirely obscured by a 'convenient' camera angle: one can only assume this was because his guilt would have been clear if his actions had been visible.

However, enough of my ranting: despite my occasional jibes at ShireTV's expense, I am always grateful for the opportunity to watch Warriors highlights online. There was a rumour that our recent match at Cowdenbeath was being filmed, possibly with a view to launching an online highlights service for Stenny supporters: we shall have to wait and see. In the meantime, I will look forward to tomorrow's clash with Forfar. The Loons have three ex-Warriors in their squad (Ally Brown, Graham Gibson and Kevin McLeish), two of whom played a part in our victory over East Fife precisely twelve months ago - arguably our finest result of last season. Here's hoping they don't come back to haunt us...

Fantastic Plastic

I read with a degree of disbelief in the Falkirk Herald that we are having trouble getting players in on loan because some clubs are reluctant to let their players come to us because we play on an artificial pitch. While George Peat and his fellow cronies within the game bang on about streamlining the administration and removing the self interest that is undoubtedly rife throughout the various administrative boards, what hope is there for the game when attitudes like this persist? In case these people hadn’t heard, the professional game in Scotland, like most other industries is well and truly goosed. Any sort of innovation which will help sustain the game in this country should be embraced and encouraged, but no, all you hear is how the “plastic pitches” (a misnomer if ever there was one) are not what football should be about – the ball doesn’t bounce properly, the pitch causes injuries, the home team gets an unfair advantage etc. Yet, almost every single club who has installed one of these artificial pitches swears by it. For us, I presume, our revenue must have increased dramatically since the pitch was installed, not just from the ground share with East Stirling, which I presume we would not have entered in to if we still had a grass pitch (who can forget the state the pitch was in the season we shared with Falkirk?), but from the various other activities that take place on the pitch through the week. So, while it won’t be the difference between us challenging Barcelona, Real Madrid, Man Utd etc as the biggest club in the world, it should help us make ends meet.

Tough at the top

After a tricky run of games at the start of the 2nd quarter it is very encouraging to see us having preserved our 5 point lead. Given that we still have to face the teams at the lower end of the league, to go into those games still at the top of the league is a huge boost, particularly given the injury and suspension problems we have had to deal with. For a variety of reasons I have only managed to get to the Dumbarton match out of the last 4. While this wasn’t necessarily a great match it was quite thrilling. Before the match I would probably have taken a point, but five minutes in, and down to 10 men I feared the worst. Of course I hadn’t reckoned on the headcase playing left back for Dumbarton who got Dumbarton back on level terms so to speak. As for the match itself, Dumbarton despite their good press (admittedly, written by their own fans!) were something of a disappointment. In Stevie Murray they have one of the best players in the league – certainly the most creative – but for me they didn’t threaten us enough and in the end it took an unfortunate deflection for them to grab a point. This was the first goal Scott Bennett had lost since coming in to the team. From what I have heard, and what I have seen, he is a huge improvement. The simple fact he comes off his line means that my heart is not in my mouth any time we face up to a set piece. Whether he is the long term answer remains to be seen (I see that David Hay at Cowdenbeath has lost his spot in the team…) Saturday will be interesting as ever. Could be the biggest attendance at one our local derbies for a long time. Thankfully for the credibility of the league The Shire are a different proposition this season and they are no longer the laughing stock of Scottish Football, a mantle it looks like Berwick are doing their best to collect. They (The Shire that is) have some decent players, but I don’t think any of them would get in to our team, so we really should be confident enough going in to the match. Hopefully some of the injury worries will have cleared up, although those players that have come in to the team have been performing exceptionally (Gary Thom in particular has been outstanding to the extent that I would pick him ahead of Jordan Smith now). Exciting times.

Cup fever

This might seem a little premature, given that our cup date with Threave is still ten days away, but the draw for the Second Round of the Scottish Cup (or the 'Homecoming Cup' as it's now called) caught my attention. In focusing on the Cup, of course, my main objective is to avoid dwelling too long on the current predicament of the national side. Yet the temptation to give a brief summary of my views on that matter is, nevertheless, difficult to resist. Recent press coverage has, as usual, been overly pessimistic: in reality, finishing second in the group should hardly be rocket science, even after a draw with Norway. The real worry at the moment, though, is Kris Boyd's international 'retirement.' As Scotland supporters, we have to support the manager on this: Boyd's refusal to play under George Burley is out of order, and George was right to vent his frustration. Yet in spite of this, I have a certain degree of sympathy for Boyd: he is without doubt one of the best strikers around, and the decision to omit him from the side was unfathomable. I remain confident, though, that our World Cup campaign will get back on track, with or without Boyd, and with or without his potential replacement Chris Iwelumo. The latter has (at present) dubious credentials in international football, and a name which is (nearly) an anagram of 'I'm a wally.' Still, hopefully he'll come good - all those goals he's scoring for Wolves must count for something...

Anyway, returning to the Scottish Cup, the primary focus of my musings isn't our chance for revenge against the Castle Douglas outfit, but the tie which, when the draw was made, read as follows:

'Annan Athletic v Pollok or Spartans'

For anyone with an interest in non-league football, this tie has it all. The most recent graduates of the non-league system, our SFL Third Division rivals Annan Athletic, were to be paired with either Spartans - their erstwhile rivals for that coveted place in the league, champions of the East of Scotland League in which Annan competed last season, and thus probably the strongest side in the senior non-league pyramid, or Pollok - widely recognised as the 'giants' of the junior setup. When Spartans defeated Pollok after a replay, I, for one, was pleased. Whilst some supporters of top junior clubs like Pollok tend to assume that they could hold their own in the SFL, the senior non-league setup (e.g. the East of Scotland League) is often overlooked. Whilst junior sides periodically enjoy a reasonable profile in the national media, the same cannot be said for the likes of Spartans. I am, though, delighted that junior sides now have the opportunity to compete in the Scottish Cup, if only because it allows the myth of their supposed superiority to be debunked.

Spartans' forthcoming clash with Annan is no less 'politically interesting' than their first-round tie, and once again I find myself on Spartans' side. Put simply, I have a great degree of sympathy with the Edinburgh outfit after their failure to gain election to the SFL during the summer. Very few clubs can match their commitment to youth and community football, and I believe that admitting them to the League would not only have been a worthwhile experiment, but ultimately also a successful one. (Besides, the club which produced Kevin Motion surely deserves some reward!) That is not to say that I have anything against the Annan club - I thoroughly enjoyed our encounter with them in August, and they made us most welcome, quite unlike Gretna, their predecessors in the SFL. If we manage to get past Threave, alas, what I'd like most of all is a trip to Spartans in the third round!

Reffin' hell

Quarter 1 complete and we are unbeaten. Happy days, but it could have been so much better. Having taken the lead against Forfar we seemed to be, not quite cruising, but certainly drifting towards another 3 points. Forfar had enough possession but like most teams we have played against they struggled to create too many clear cut chances, and when they did, there was usually a defender in the way, literally, to prevent an equalizing goal. Until the whistler got in the way that is. To be honest, I normally can’t get too worked up about what is perceived as poor officiating. Mainly because I’m not sure I could do any better, and if there were no ref’s then we wouldn’t have a game at all. And given that we are at the arse end of Scottish Football, we can’t really expect to have the Collina’s, or Dougal’s, of the refereeing fraternity officiating at our matches. The players aren’t the best so why should they expect the top refs? So it is really a case of like it or lump it. The guy on Saturday seemed particularly “Green behind the ears” – the amount of flak from McLeish, Mathie and Brady that he seemed prepared to accept was cringeworthy – but the fact is that hopefully, anyway, the guy will learn from it. However, despite this relatively pragmatic view, on Saturday Mr Watters managed to make my blood boil. Personally, while I might get worked up about decisions for and against, my general view is that over the course of the season the (bad) decisions will even themselves out. The match against Forfar was an illustration in point. Both teams had what appeared to be stonewall penalty decisions turned down (although the Forfar incident was the direct result of a crude challenge on Jordan Smith) Nevertheless, you take the rough with the smooth. Even the so called foul that lead to the equalizer was “soft”, but you could understand (maybe) why the ref gave it. But for me, what was unforgiveable was the amount of time added on at the end. Surely this was pure incompetence. In a match without incident or major delay why on earth did the ref add so much time? No matter how inexperienced the official is, surely he can tell the time? I came away from the match feeling as though we had lost, where in fact we had maintained our lead at the top and our unbeaten record.

Autumn falls...

The last couple of weeks have seen a dramatic fall in temperature as we head into October, but this has been offset by a dramatic increase in our lead at the top of the table. After our recent victories over the Shire, Berwick and Albion Rovers there is now a five-point gap between ourselves and our nearest challengers. My last few weekends have been spent househunting in London, but thanks to the ever-efficient service of ShireTV I have at least seen a few minutes of the Warriors in action: the highlights of our derby victory were undeniably pleasing on the eye, and the same high standards have, by all accounts, been maintained in subsequent matches. In the midst of all this, Kevin Motion seems to have been doing especially well in recent weeks, both individually and as a valued team player. Against the Shire, for example, he scored both goals, but was also involved in a lovely move which created an opening for Alan Brazil. Another great source of strength in our current line-up is, of course, our central defence. Jordan Smith had an excellent start to the season prior to his injury, and I have heard nothing but praise for the performance of Gary Thom, who stood in for him against Albion Rovers. John Ovenstone, meanwhile, has excelled himself not only by having a bizarre nickname (Zanussi Washing Machine or something?), but by providing ShireTV with it's most amusing piece of footage yet. Their attempt to 'prove' that John had handled the ball on our goal line consisted of: (a) having the *impartial* commentator insist as much, and persist in doing so; (b) having a sufficiently bad camera angle that no viewer could possibly dare to disagree. Forgive me if I prefer to trust the referee on this occasion. In general, though, the basis for our good form has been teamwork. Once again, the Shire game is a good example. Players from all positions made valuable contributions to attacking moves: from the midfield, Brand fashioned a decent chance for himself through sheer perseverance, whilst Thomson's through ball for Motion's second goal was a joy to behold. Even the defenders play their part: both Ovenstone's long throws and Lyle's crosses have added spice to our attack this season. As I write this, we're 25 minutes into our game against Forfar and the scores are tied at 0-0. Despite Sky Sports' mistaken belief that we've got someone called Craig Rankin in goals, I see no reason why we won't be celebrating again come 4:45.

BOGOF

This season’s kit is produced by multinational Adidas, the same people who produce the Liverpool strip amongst others. There the similarities end. I presume that the deal Stenhousemuir have struck for the provision for our 2008/09 strip is not quite as lucrative as the one the Reds negotiated. Which got me thinking. Where is the cut off? At what point do the leading football strip manufacturers stop approaching clubs to become their exclusive leisure wear provider? I presume, but perhaps with a misplaced sense of importance, that all the SPL clubs are an attractive proposition to the likes of Adidas, but where is the cut off? And when you hit that point, I guess the clubs have to pay the kit manufacturer to supply the kit, in much the same way as the local boys U10 team do. I suppose the one difference will be that there will be some sort of deal to be struck regarding who keeps the cash from replica strip sales, but otherwise I presume it is pretty straightforward for Stenhousemuir, as it is for most other football teams i.e. two sets of strips, one home, one away, a few tracksuits = £2,000 or £3,000 I presume. But does it need to be that way? I recall from the dim and distant past that the French Division 1 clubs struck a deal with a kit manufacturer (Adidas I think) to produce the strips for every club in the league. It meant that each team had the same design of strip but it also meant that the league was able to negotiate a deal for each of the clubs which meant that they paid £2,000, minus a little bit. Not quite “Buy One Get One Free” but every little helps, as they say. Could the Scottish Football League do something similar? If not why not? Why can’t the SFL negotiate a deal for all clubs which would result in some sort of bulk buy discount. Hey, they could even throw in the referees strips for free. I guess it needn’t stop at strips. There must be all sorts of expenses clubs incur where if they got together surely their collective bargaining power would net some sort of saving – insurance, goals posts, balls, pies. If having the SFL operating on behalf of its member clubs (a ludicrous thought, I know) doesn’t happen, then why not have Stenhousemuir and The Shire, or Berwick, or any other club for that matter getting together and sharing costs? On the pitch, Stenny continue to set the pace. The league is so open that everyone else is cutting one anothers throats. Every week when we win it seems that we add another point to the gap between ourselves and the chasing pack. While we keep winning of course. Saturday brings Forfar to Ochilview who by all accounts are a bit of an enigma. Their home record is bad and their away record is good. An away record that includes a victory against our tenants earlier in the season. If we avoid defeat then we will have played everyone once and avoided defeat. A fantastic base upon which to build a promotion challenge.

Home and Away

Slightly unusual match on Saturday where we occupied the away dressing room (apparently) and most of our support was on the terrace. Official crowd was 511 but it looked like more from where I was sitting. As for the match itself, despite a few shaky moments, we ran out comfortable winners. The Shire started off well but faded big style and the 2nd half was reminiscent of seasons gone by where they did a favourable impression of a Pub Team. Things have improved on the pitch following the injection of some cash from their benfactor but without a home of their own, and relying on one man's generosity, I wonder just how long they have left. Once he gets bored where do they go? Will Spartans get their chance sooner rather than later? Stranraer are also in a perilous state, openly admitting that they screwed their finances up. It's a dicy business and I only hope our Board of Directors know what they are doing. Back on the plastic, Kevin Motion continues to rattle in the goals. Apart from his goals, his delivery from set pieces is fantastic. It always amazes me that "professional" footballers cannot hit a stationary ball more accurately than they do, but the reality is that a player who can hit a dead ball like Motion is a scarcity. In the old days of Terry Christie, one of his successful tactics was a player able to hit an vicious, inswinging corner (Adrian Sprott, Graeme Armstrong) to the near post where our striker would flick it on for an inrushing player at the back post. It was very effective but required a player who could accurately find that player at the near post. Motion seems able to strike a dead ball with that preciceness. Although having watched Stoke at the weekend, maybe we should just play for throw ins and rely on Ovenstone's long throws to create chances. We have seem to have so many options!

Stranger things have happened...

It's been a few weeks since I last posted, and readers will surely agree that it has been an odd time for football in general. Down south, for example, the final week of the transfer window turned into something of a silly season. Manchester City grabbed the headlines, of course, with their attempt to sign approximately 60% of the population of Europe on deadline day, though rumours of a last-ditch £50m bid for Kevin Motion proved to be unfounded. For me, though, the strangest goings-on were at Stoke City. I'm sure nobody was surprised to see a crowd of Manchester City supporters gathering outside their stadium when the Robinho signing was announced, but the sight of Stoke supporters doing the same for Danny Higginbotham - as broadcast live on Sky Sports News - was unquestionably a touch bizarrre.

Returning to more familiar circles, ex-Warrior Kenny Miller has been making headlines once again. Having achieved the unique feat of making himself equally unpopular with both halves of the Old Firm, last weekend saw him silence his critics amongst the Rangers support by doing what he does best - rising to the big occasion and socring goals. As the World Cup qualifiers approach, we can only hope that his rich vein of form continues: both Macedonia and Iceland are sides we should realistically be beating, but who nevertheless represent potential banana-skins. I'm especially looking forward to watching tomorrow's clash with Macedonia, or the 'Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,' as the intractable nature of Balkan politics obliges us to refer to them. One added incentive for the team is the very real possibility that two victories might take us ahead of England in the world rankings, for the first time ever: here's hoping!

The international break has, of course, fallen at a convenient time for the Warriors: our win over Cowdenbeath last week ensured that we would remain top of the league for at least two weeks. Such a disrpution to the rhythm of regular weekly matches is sometimes interpreted as a potential hazard for in-form teams, but as things stand just now, we have every reason to look forward with confidence to the resumption of league action on September 13.

Shirra Brilliance

Blimey, the last two visits to the football have been fantastic. Having returned from my summer hols where I had managed to fit in one more match (well, strictly, two matches) and another new stadium - Real Mallorca entertained Newcastle, Hannover and Berlin in the "Summer Cup" aka an opportunity to rip off the tourists; again - I returned just in time to catch our home match against Montrose. First half was appalling and put me in mind of the worst ever performances; again. It probably wasn't that bad, but it felt it. Second half couldn't have been any more different. A couple of changes and it was like watching a new team (Brazil?) We totally outclassed the opposition and could easily have gone on to win a match we had looked like losing an hour earlier. Scott Dalziel, who had spent the previous 45 minutes imitating his own shadow, managed to score with a couple of clinical headers, and finally, literally, John Ovenstone managed to head wide when he had all the time in the world to choose his spot. Ovenstone looks like Freddy Flintoff, and is a brute of a player. Not sure how he would cope against a nippy striker, but he isn't likely to lose many headers. On to Dumbarton for a rare away day for myself. Having missed kick off on each of my last three visits to The Rock, it was one extreme to the next. The expected roadworks and traffic congestion (Celtic were at home) didn't materialise and I arrived 45 minutes before kick off, just as the reporter from The Sun arrived in the car park. Like me he was looking forward to the game as he also had been at the Montrose game and thought "Stenny were a good team", he told a fellow reporter. I wonder if this was Scotland on Sunday's delegate? The same one who obviously hadn't listened too closely to the man from The Sun. He left before the end of the match and filed his report with the opening gambit "THE spoils were shared at the Strathclyde Homes Stadium in a dire 1-1 draw between Dumbarton and Stenhousemuir." If he had stayed till the end he would have realised that we were a good team this season, one who won't crumble under the slightest whiff of pressure from the opposition, and indeed one who fights to the end. What a delight to see our team push forward looking for a winner right to the last minute. Andy Shirra's goal was a belter, as was Kevin Motion's, and was a well deserved winner. Next weekend brings Cowdungbeath and an opportunity to resurrect our rivalry from two or three years ago. They are top of the pile at the moment which is a surprise to me. Still early days but this feels like an important match.

Club X 1-1 Stenhousemuir

I caught my first glimpse of 2008-09 league action on Saturday as we drew 1-1 with Annan Athletic, whom I still describe as 'Club X' in an attempt to keep myself amused. Attending the match - the first SFL game at Annan's Galabank ground - was an unquestionably odd experience, not least on account of the manifold difficulties we experienced in actually gaining access to the stadium. Am I the only one who wonders if unfinished refurbishment of away grounds is becoming a theme of our season? After the curious experience of Fleetwood in pre-season, where the lack of floodlights led some of us to question whether or not we'd actually get the game finished, Annan presented us with a new challenge: lack of turnstiles. These simple items of stadium-entrance equipment are, it would seem, a privelege reserved for home supporters only - at least until the redevlopment work is completed. Warriors supporters were forced to enter via the astroturf pitches, where - bizarrely - the Annan players were happily getting on with their pre-match warm-up. (Brian, aka Bozo from the website forum, was a notable exception to this rule, successfully gaining access through the home supporters' entrance despite his conspicuous Stenny colours. It must have been down to his cheeky smile.)

The match itself was a largely scrappy affair, in which we were unable to capitalise on our clear technical and territorial superiority. In terms of the performances of individual players, it was the proverbial game of two halves. Ferguson and Thomson, for example, put in strong performances in the first half before fading in the second, whilst for Lyle the opposite was true: after a lacklustre opening period, he was excellent after the interval, combining beautifully with Dalziel and Brand respectively in two well-worked attacks. Dalziel missed a sitter whilst Brand was a little subdued at times, but both still showed some decent touches, and it was good to see the latter continuing his prolific goalscoring start to the season.

All in all, then, two points dropped against relatively inexperienced opposition, but plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The two undisputed stars of the show, though, were Annan's sloping pitch - not conducive to brilliant football but certainly aesthetically pleasing - and Chris McGroarty's luminous blue boots, which injected some much-needed colour into the proceedings!

Here we go again...

After the disappointing defeat by Albion Rovers in the Challenge Cup, Warriors fans will be attempting to claim that the 'real' season starts this coming Saturday, with the visit of Elgin. Most observers would expect some changes to the side after such a poor showing; here's my take on the ideal line-up:

----------------------Bennett---------------------

McEwan --- Smith --- Ovenstone --- Lyle

---Love --------- Ferguson -------- Motion -

---------------------- Shirra ----------------------

--------- Hampshire -----Dalziel -------------

Good performances in midfield will be paramount, especially in wide areas - in previous season we've suffered from a lack of width, and we can't afford to fall into the same trap this time. Motion is the only decent candidate wide on the left (unless we put Lyle there and pick McGroarty at left back), whilst on the right, I think Love's pace and control could tear most teams to shreds. In central midfield, there is no better ball-winner than Ferguson - as proved against Fleetwood. On the basis of reports from the Airdrie match, meanwhile, it'd be impossible to leave out Shirra.

At the back, Smith and Ovenstone have impressed me greatly, whilst Thom will provide decent backup if he learns to be a bit less rash in the tackle. Bennett looks an assured keeper. Up front, Hampshire is looking fit and is probably the best candidate to partner Dalziel. The two players who've impressed me particularly, and who I'm especially keen to see picked, are Ferguson and Love.

I'm reluctant to make predictions about how we'll do this season, but I'm certainly looking forward to it: I have every faith in John Coughlin's capacity to bring the good times back to Ochilview. My formative years coincided with the 'golden years' of Second Division football, memorable cup runs, and quality coaches like Terry Christie, Graeme Armstrong and Brian Fairley - but since Brian's departure in 2001, we've only really had two or three decent seasons. Moreover, I think a lot of us perceived a great sense of negativity between 2001 and about 2004-5: from the backroom shenanigans in 2001-2 (Gordon Hill et al), to the abysmal league campaign of 2003-4: these were dark times.

These days, though, irrespective of what happens on the park, things are unquestionably more positive: we have a forward-looking board who do a terrific job at keeping us up to date with goings-on, a terrific artificial playing surface which is a great asset, and an excellent manager. As the new league season dawns, then, the message is simple: Bring it on!

Here we go again

It didn't really take too long before the optimism of the new season became a distant memory. 90 minutes in and it's as if it was all a bad nightmare; again. Albion Rovers are not very good but they made up for what they lacked in ability by putting a great shift from the first minute to the last. So while our team might have most of the possession and passed the ball about (the halfway line) we were ineffective. There were no killer passes. Too many times we got into position to cross and either cut back or if they did cross, it was straight to a defender. Up front is a worry, where Dalziel and Gibson don't cut it for me. Love came on and was a menace for the 15 minutes or so he was on the park, and he came the closest to scoring with a header well saved by the Albion keeper. We created very few clearcut chances. Dalziel sclaffed one shot which the keeper almost managed to help into the net but otherwise chances at a premium. It is still early days and too soon to get too depressed but it was not a good start today. We still have Brand and Brazil to come in to the team and they can only imrove things (surely) . As far as the team is concerned, my view was:- 1. Bennett - did ok. Almost pulled off a great save at the penalty but in truth had little to do. 2. Lyle - hopeless today. He was so lethargic and when he did get forward he was unable to deliver the ball into the box, preferring to turn back and pass the ball. 3. McGroarty - he was never my favourite signing, an opinion which remains unchanged. He literally did nothing. 4. Thom - seemed untroubled throughout the match. Reality is that while the Albion strikeforce were a couple of pests, they are unlikely to trouble the scorers too often. We will face better players than that. 5 Smith - didn't put a foot wrong. My MOM. 6 Tyrell - how on earth does he keep winning our player of the year award? 7 Shirra - had high hopes but he was disappointing today. Didn't get involved anywhere nearly enough. 8 Hampshire - he looked ponderous throughout the match and actually didn't look fit. Did nothing. Just like last season. 9 Dalziel - goodness me. Did he have his boots on the wrong feet? Looks low on confidence. 10 Gibson - ineffective. 11 Thomson - misplaced so many passes. Another player with a big reputation who had a disappointing debut. Surely he can only improve. As for the subs, Love was good. Caused them trouble and came closing to scoring. He must be close to a starting spot. Ferguson, when he came on looked old and slow. Despite this, I can't fathom how Tyrell starts ahead of him. My summer holidays start next week (boy, do I wish they had started yesterday) so I miss the next 3 or 4 matches. Bizarrely, by the time I return, in all likelihood we will be out of two cups before the end of the first week in August!

2008/2009 predictions

So, another season is almost upon us. As ever, I am fairly optimistic about our chances. Not sure how long it will last but hopefully a bit longer than last season. We seem to have built a squad of players, all of whom have performed well at this level. In the past we have put our faith in players who are in the twilight of their careers and who have come to Stenhousemuir for their last big pay day (ha!). So while there are no “names” in the squad, it is players familiar to most fans at this level, and who have generally created a good impression at their other clubs ie. their supporters didn’t want them to leave. So how do I think the league will turn out? Based upon what I saw last season and what I have seen and heard during the close season I think there will be one or two clubs in for a shock this season, one way or another. My prediction for the final league placings: 1.Dumbarton - look to have signed some decent players who come with big reputations (OK, I know it doesn’t always work out for the better but…) Throughout their team they have players who most other clubs would happily see playing for them - McEwan, Lennon, Murray and Carcary. It can’t be much worse for them than it was last season but I think they will have a squad and manager capable of getting them promoted. 2.Stenhousemuir - for the reasons above. Will we go up in the play offs? Who knows? 3. Montrose - were decent enough last season and Weir seems to be a good manager. 4. Berwick - they have made some disappointing signings; whether it’s just rubbish (Dillon, McGurk) or players that don’t want to play for them (Lister - that looks like that was a close escape) but McGonigal and Mooney will do OK I think. 5. Cowdenbeath - bit like Forfar, I’m not sure how they will do. Some good signings - Tomana - and some bad ones - McGregor, the little thug who would get sent off every week if he wasn’t suspended most of them. Again, bit like Albion, I don’t know what the future holds for them following the resignation of McDougall as Chairman and the property developers taking over the running of the club. Selfishly, I’m not looking forward to returning to darkest Fife this season - the place just depresses me. 6. Forfar - this is the team I am least confident about. Either they will have a disaster, be mid table, or get a play off spot! I have no idea. Disappointed Ally Brown didn’t end up back with us. 7. The Shire - almost like a proper team now, with proper players and a proper manager. All they need now is somewhere to play. Can’t help but feel they have simply been offered a stay of execution and that they are not long for this world. What do they do when their “sugar daddy” calls it a day? Don’t think they will be any where near good enough for promotion (Hillcoat is hopeless and Cramb will get bored) but I can’t see them finishing bottom. 8. Elgin - as long as Inverness continue to lend to them then they should be good enough to stay off the bottom. 9. Albion Rovers - the new Shire. They are broke by all accounts and their squad looks paper thin. Signing Dumbarton’s rejects from last season can’t fill their fans with confidence. And while there will be the odd gem to be found in the Amatuer ranks, I don’t think a team full of them is the answer. 10. Annan - they haven’t had time to get a strong enough squad together so I think it will be a season of toil for them. It will be interesting to see how the Annan public get behind them especially if they struggle. I still can’t fathom how Spartans didn’t get in. Hey ho. So, Saturday coming brings the start of the new season and while we have to wait a further week before the league starts it will be great to see competitive football again.

Skelmersdale Utd 0-1 Stenhousemuir

Given the results our our matches on pre-season tour, outside observers would surely expect us to be happier Saturday's result - a 1-0 victory - than with our draw the previous evening. As we all know, though, football isn't played on paper, and Warriors supporters - whilst we were undoubtedly relieved to claim a late victory - were left feeling frustrated for a significant proportion of the game. This is not to criticise the performace of the players, which was perfectly functional. Perhaps it was the sheer frequency of substitutions in the second half, but the match was stuck in something of a rut from the interval right up until our late winner, a tap-in from Scott McManus after good work from Haynes. One especially interesting aspect of the game, in any case, was the fluidity of the Warriors' formation, with players shifting from one wing to the other, from attack into midfield and vice versa. Alan Brazil, for example, started the match in an unconventional wide left role before moving up front. Whether or not this will prove to be a wise or long-term tactic remains to be seen, and will depend largely on the players' familiarity with each other.

When all is said and done, then, this was a successful end to a successful tour, with impressive performances from the likes of Ovenstone (again) and Gary Thom, though the latter needs to learn to be less rash in the tackle. Robert Love also showed some wonderful touches. With the players looking fit and prepared for the season, then, here's hoping this serves as a prelude to a successful campaign.

STENHOUSEMUIR (4-3-1-2): 1 Bennett - 2 McEwan, 3 Lyle, 4 Thom, 5 Ovenstone - 6 Tyrrell, 7 Love, 10 Brazil - 11 Motion - 8 Hampshire, 9 Dalziel.

Fleetwood Town 1-1 Stenhousemuir

My first glimpse of the new-look Warriors team, in Friday's friendly against Fleetwood Town, proved to be an ultimately satisfactory one. Previous pre-season tours have seen something approaching a full-strength Stenny team in the first half of each game, followed by a raft of substitutions after the interval; this time, however, substitutions were kept to a minimum, a decision which undoubtedly helped the flow of the game. Although there were a few notable absences in midfield and attack - with neither Brazil nor Tyrrell featuring, and Dalziel only on the bench - the defence was near enough full strength: pre-season friendly or not, the Warriors were not taking this one lightly.

The match itself was well contested and refreshingly competitive: Fleetwood proved themselves to be extremely capable opponents, who should, on this showing, expect to be one of the stronger teams at their level this season. Their attacking endeavour presented a challenge to the Warriors backline, but our defence remained solid throughout, with Jordan Smith excelling alongside the equally impressive John Ovenstone. Defence was perhaps the most impressive aspect of our performance - perhaps unsurprisingly given the notable absentees in other areas of the park - but the attacking players also put in a good shift. Kevin Haynes made a worthy contribution, and put the Warriors ahead on the stroke of half-time with a well-taken header. Whether or not he signs a contract might depend on how desparate he is for first-team football. With competition from Dalziel, Brazil, Hampshire and Love, nobody can be guaranteed a start, but he might prove to be a useful addition.

The key battleground was in the midfield, where the Warriors won the battle in central areas. Fleetwood made more of an attempt to attack down the wings, with some success, but Steven Ferguson's masterful performance was a joy to behold for the travelling support. Both Desmond and Motion had their moments, and I would be interested to see them play in a formation which allowed them to roam up and down the flanks a bit more. Brand, meanwhile - although quiet for spells of the game - showed some lovely touches. Fleetwood's headed equaliser, with around 15 minutes to go, failed to dampen the spirits or spoil what had unquestionably been a useful workout for both sides, and a deserved draw.

There followed the obligatory trip to the bar, where a few lucky Warriors were treated to complimentary pies and chips by our hosts: a few found it difficult to grasp that it was possible for a Stenhousemuir fan to live in Blackpool, but I had fun trying to explain. Fleetwood's club president, meanwhile, evidently shared our appreciation of Ferguson's performance: he approached me in the bar and asked to be informed of the finer points of our captain's career history! I was pleased to get a chance to meet John Coughlin for the first time (courtesy of my Dad, who is helping to sort out training arrangements for the weekend), and he shared the fans' view of the game: a good-spirited encounter, and ideal preparation for the season ahead.

STENHOUSEMUIR (4-3-1-2): 17 Renton - 2 McEwan, 3 Lyle, 4 Smith, 5 Ovenstone - 6 Desmond, 8 Ferguson, 11 Motion - 7 Brand - 9 Haynes, 10 Gibson.

What happens on tour...

As a longstanding member of the 'Warriors Abroad' club, I am used to travelling 200 miles north to Ochilview to watch the Warriors. This coming weekend, however, roles will be reversed, with the squad heading south to my home town of Blackpool on pre-season tour. In terms of having football 'on my doorstep,' this really is as good as it gets: in the first of the two matches on tour, the opposition will be provided by Blue Square North side Fleetwood Town - five miles from Blackpool town centre and three miles from my house. As if that weren't enough, the following day sees us travel to face Skelmersdale United, whose ground is conveniently located a couple of miles from my girlfriend's house. I couldn't have planned it better myself.

The impending fixtures got me thinking about pre-season tours of years gone by. For most Warriors supporters, the most memorable pre-season experience was our trip to Oslo two seasons ago, and especially the spectacular thunderstorm during our 7-2 victory over St Hanshaugen. Whilst most supporters were happy to sacrifice their view of the action for some much-needed shelter, I insisted it was worth sticking it out on the touchline - though club chairman David Reid was evidently the only other person in agreement. From my own perspective, though, my fondest pre-season memory is of a previous visit to Blackpool in 2001, whereupon my Dad and I devised a route for the team coach, leading it quickly and safely to its destination, but also leading it past our front door. Only afterwards did I realise that the players might have been a tad bemused to see a house on the outskirts of Blackpool decked out in Stenhousemuir flags...

Other pre-season highlights have included a victory over a Preston side managed by Craig Brown, not to mention the joy of watching various players attempt kareoke after our match at Bamber Bridge in 2003. There is, of course, one notable exception to the long list of successful pre-season tours: in 2002, our match with Barrow was abandoned during the first half, with Des McKeown and Brian Crawford both having sustained serious injuries at the hands of opponents who clearly were yet to grasp the concept of a 'friendly.'

This weekend's trip, though, will surely be a positive experience. One point worth remembering, however, is this: only twice since the tours began (in 1999) have Stenny won both fixtures in any given year - in 2003 and 2006. On each occasion, a hugely disappointing league campaign was to follow. Less successful pre-season results, on the other hand, have generally been followed by more positive performances when it counts. Let's hope, then, that any success we might enjoy at the weekend doesn't taint our chances of success in the season to come!

Border raiders...

With pre-season already underway, now is an appropriate time to take stock of the gaffer's dealings in the summer transfer market. The majority of the deals seem to fit into one of four categories:

• Berwick players signing for Stenny (Smith, McGroarty and Thomson, plus Noble and Haynes who are currently on trial)
• Stenny players signing for Berwick (Hamilton and Dillon)
• Players signing for Stenny having previously agreed to sign for Berwick (Motion)
• Players signing for Berwick having previously agreed to sign for Stenny (Lister)

It goes without saying that clashes between the two sides will be eagerly anticipated, and I hope our traditionally good-natured relationship with the Berwick support continues, notwithstanding the controversial transfers of Lister and Motion. Berwick's newly-appointed management team, of course, will be looking forward to their first visit to Ochilview, where they should receive a warm welcome. Alan McGonigal, their manager, hails from the Stenhousemuir area and served the Warriors well whilst on the coaching staff, whilst his assistant Martin Mooney will be especially fondly remembered by the Ochilview faithful, both for his goal against Hearts at Tynecastle and for his legendary tan. I remember meeting Martin shortly after he joined us in 1999, and being greatly impressed by his attitude to the game: here's hoping his Berwick side finish second behind the Warriors this season.

The inherent assumption in that assertion, of course, is that we have the capacity to claim the title. The season is long and hard, of course, but with the squad we have in place, we have every right to be confident. Two new goalkeepers will compete for the No. 1 spot, whilst the defence looks solid, with the likes Smith, McGroarty and fellow new boy John Ovenstone alongside the ever-dependable Craig McEwan. Promising youngsters such as Rhys Galloway and Gary Thom will also be keen to stake a claim for a first-team slot; I'm especially looking forward to seeing more of Rhys after his impressive start last season.

Competition will be fierce for the central midfield berths: Andy Brand will be a great asset bursting forward, whilst Ferguson, Tyrrell, Shirra and Thomson will each have a major part to play. Whilst neither Willie Lyle nor Graham Gibson are natural right wingers, both will be hoping to secure the No. 7 shirt, whilst new boy Kevin Motion should offer us an option wide on the left. With Alan Brazil joining the already-impressive front line of Dalziel, Love and Hampshire, meanwhile, our attack looks ever stronger.

At this stage, of course, it's all talk: we have been pre-season title favourites in two of the previous three seasons, with precious little to show for it. Yet John knows what it takes to win this league, having done so with Berwick in 2007. Two years on, who's to say he won't be celebrating again?

Annan: Good or bad

Earlier in the week Club X was revealed. Annan Athletic are the latest new recruits to the SFL. As the days passed it became quite clear that Spartans were not everybody's favourite to claim the spot in the league that I had thought would have been a formality. Obviously I'm not privvy to what went on at Hampden on Thursday and I'm sure there are good reasons why Spartans performed so poorly when the voting started, but I haven't seen or heard any logical explanation. Surely it can't be simply that their ground was not going to be ready at the start of the season. So, while it is always quite exciting to have a new team in the league, and a new ground to visit, I can't help but wonder what exactly Annan are going to bring to the party. To me they seem like another fair to middling to team, from a relatively small town, with little prospect of generating decent crowds and, generally, I can't see them improving the quality and attractiveness of the league. For me, while Spartans may not be the best supported at the moment, surely if it is done properly, there is room for Edinburgh to accomodate an SFL club? As I said before, I am not at all clear why Spartans were so far away from winning the election. I have no idea who Stenhousemuir were backing although I can only presume that in the final voting we went for Annan. I think Cove Rangers managed to poll 12 or 13 votes, which interestingly, is about the same number of clubs north of the Forth! The process does seem to have a degree of farce about it where self interest rules. There is, as ever, talk of introducing a pyramid system to Scottish football, but I can't help thinking this is simply a sop to the gallant losers earlier in the week. The reality is at some point you simply reach the bottom and there is nowhere else to go and as far as senior football in Scotland the bottom is the 3rd division. Se despite it all, I'm looking forward to my first visit to Galabank, which unfortunately won't be next month but instead early February. Wonder if the novelty will have worn off by then?!

Club X

Looking forward to hearing who the new addition to the SFL will be. I think most people's money is on Spartans and I will be amazed if it is not them that are selected. I suspect it will be between them and Annan but I think Spartans have the most potential. Surely, if done properly, an SFL team can prosper in Edinburgh. It seems to me that Spartans have the right community spirit about their club. They have numerous under age teams and are in the process of building their own purpose built ground. Interestingly for us I think we are scheduled to be Club X's first opponents at home. Given that Spartans ground is unlikely to be ready in time I wonder if they will simply play their first few games away from home. I hope so. Summer holidays mean I will miss the first couple of league games so I would hate to think I was missing out on a trip to a new ground - whoever it turns out to be. Euro 2008 continues apace and it has been a great tournament for all sorts of reasons. With neither Scotland or England qualifying it means that we can sit back and not worry too much about the outcome of the matches. Unless of course you have a wager on Russia to win the tournament at 12-1, in which case you are no longer the neutral observer; all of a sudden I find myself taking more than just a passing interest in Zhirkov, Akinfeev, Arshavin and Co.

Brand new

No sooner has the season finished that we are all looking forward to next season. I really do have a short memory as I am already getting quite excited about our prospects. Particularly as we have signed Andrew Brand the winner of my "Opposition player I would be happy to sign (realistically)" award. I didn't think anyone read this but I'm glad to see that John Coughlin pays close attention!! Also signed are Kieron Renton. Always struck me as a good keeper but prone to the occassional gaffe. Generally, though the positives outweigh the negatives as far as I am concerned. Good signing. John Ovenstone from Forfar. I know nothing about this guy so will need to reserve judgement although signing players from the worst team in the country doesn't initially fill me with confidence. Jordan Smith has signed from Berwick. He looked solid enough when he came in to the team towards the end of the season. Thumbs up. Chris McGroarty. Hmmm. Never particularly rated him when he was at Berwick but Coughlin obviously likes him so we'll just need to trust his judgement. Also confirmed that Craig McEwan has resigned which is great news. I thought he was our best player and I am still amazed he didn't get POY; a decision that seems more controversial than your average Zimbabwean election. On reflection, Graham Gibson signing on for another season is probably a good bit of business by the manager. He never impressed too much last season but it was acknowledged that he came to us lacking match practice and fitness. I suspect that with a pre season behind him we will see a different player - hopefully a better one!! Finally, it seems that Jim Lister is not joining after all but instead is going to sign for Berwick Rangers, following Allan McGonigal (like our own manager, another ex Meadowbank Thistle player, and protege of Terry Christie) from Camelon. Disappointed obviously, but fact is, there is not exactly a shortage of players on the lookout for clubs. In fact Joe Savage has just rejected a deal at The Shire... P.S. Only joking about Savage in case you're reading this John.

Ochil Views 2008-09

So, another season reaches it's conclusion fairly discreetly. It's unlikely season 2007/08 will live long in the memories of many Stenhousemuir supporters. Or if it does it is likely to be for all the wrong reasons. What everybody hoped would be a season which would prove be an appropriate legacy for the late Steve Burns, who tragically passed away prior to the start of the season, turned out to be anything but. Back in August though, hopes were high. The team had successfully overcome Arbroath and Forfar, coming away with two 1-0 victories. During those early weeks we also managed to produce creditable performances against two higher places clubs (Airdrie and Berwick) before finally coming unstuck. So hopes were high as we approached September. And then it all went wrong. The Shire came to town. Or up the road. And while I enjoyed the best Prague had to offer, Joe Savage returned to Ochilview and turned in a performance, no-one who had ever seen him play at our patch before, would have thought possible. In fact I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen him repeat the trick a few months later - twice. That of course was just small diversion on the Road to the Title. Montrose were next and surely we would get ourselves back on track. Again, I managed to miss the match and ending up watching the videprinter in horror, and embarrassment, as Montrose really did come to town and rode off into the sunset with all three points in their back pocket and their goal difference boosted by a one sided 4-0 victory. Again, it was a returning "hero" who did most of the damage. John Baird this week. David McFarlane couldn't make it a hat-trick of former fans favourites coming back to haunt us. In actual fact, everything was OK again because we beat Dumbarton 2-1. One the face of it this is a good result away from home. However, this season Dumbarton proved themselves to be quite honking, and anyone who was anyone was taking three points from them. Sure enough, the next two matches resulted in two more humiliating defeats, including a 7-0 pasting from East Fife, where the "champions to be" managed to breach our rearguard 7 times during 45 horrific 2nd half minutes. It was all too much for Campbell Money, who resigned (before he was pushed?) straight after the match. The reality was that two months in to the season, the team was looking even more frail than it had done in the last days and weeks of Des McKeown's reign. At that time I didn't think it could get any worse, but Money's team managed to prove me wrong. Unfortunately. The new man arrived (John Coughlin) in a blaze of glory. His first match in charge saw us get a creditable draw at Arbroath. Hooray. The only was is up I thought. The following week we faced Threave Rovers in the Cup. An opportunity to get some much needed confidence amongst the squad as we run up a cricket score in a confidence boosting victory; I thought. The reality was that it was about to get worse before it was going to get better. The defeat at Threave was just the worse. However, eventually Coughlin managed to turn round the team’s performances. The football wasn’t exactly scintillating but at least nobody was scoring 7 goals, in one half, against us. In actual fact, the number of matches where the margin of victory or defeat was only one goal was staggering. We didn’t hammer teams but nor did we get hammered. This seems to be the way of it with Coughlin’s teams. Which is fine as long as you are doing well. In the period up to March, we managed to get ourselves into a position where we were hot on the heels of the top 4, challenging for a play off spot. During this period we managed to beat East Fife twice and were the “form team” in the division. The play offs looked a formality. And then something went wrong. The last quarter of the season when we should have been entering the play offs as the team on the way up, we turned in some of our most insipid performances of the season. The match at Arbroath for me was so disappointing. In a game where the team, and the support, should have been up for it, there was no sense of anticipation or general excitement about the club. The team turned in an abject performance against a truly abysmal Arbroath team. Despite dominating possession for long periods we failed to create any chances of note and ended up losing 1-0. The next match against Dumbarton was probably worse, and thereafter the season drifted away. The season ended with a ludicrous result, winning 5-1 away to Elgin. Coughlin fielded a team of youngsters and players committed to next season, which on the face of it should bring a degree of excitement about our chances. Indeed, even before his hat-trick, Robert Love looked a decent prospect. Hopefully, we can secure the services of the better players from this season (obviously!) - Alistair Brown looks an excellent keeper despite a shakey start and the defence has been dependable. Hopefully we can keep the majority of these players for next season. Midfield and up front are a different kettle of fish altogether. A lack of creativity and general support meant that we didn’t score enough goals, or create even enough chances. This is the biggest challenge for next season. As ever, we will go into the new season with confidence - and I do think Coughlin will have as good a chance as anyone - but it remains to be seen whether he can gel a winning team. The reality is that , with the exception of East Fife, from top to bottom, the teams have been much of a muchness. I expect it will be the same next season, perhaps more so, so a lot will depend on the manager and his ability to get most out of the squad. Players happy playing on plastic pitch would be a start! So to end it all, the best way to reflect on any year/season is with a list. So here goes… Player of the year: Craig McEwan Worst player of the year: Difficult one, but I’m afraid John Dillon contributed zip as far as I could see. Why play him on the left when he can’t kick the ball with his left foot. He’s right footed, right? Honourable mention for Steve Hampshire who came with a big reputation and was a big disappointment. Goal of the season: Willie Lyle - home v East Fife (I really thought when that one went in that we were going to do something special) Game of the season: 4-3 The Shire (away), closely followed by the two East Fife wins. In truth, the season was a bit of a chore and there were very few highlights on which to reflect. Worst game of the season: Threave Rovers. Opposition player I would be happy to sign (realistically): Andrew Brand (The Shire)

Small, but perfectly formed

Saturday’s defeat at Stranraer confirmed another season in the basement division. Depressing though it is, at least we are not Gretna. It was only a small consolation, when they were merrily rubbing our nose in the dirt each time we played them, that no sooner would they reach the peak, than they would slip back down the other side a lot quicker than it had taken them to get to the top. So it has come to pass. So while it was always inevitable that it would end in tears, hopefully it has proved to be a salutary lesson to all the so called smaller clubs that they are “smaller” for a reason, and the only way to climb the leagues is through living within your means and not relying on a sole benefactor. This season, East Fife may well have enjoyed a successful season but as soon as their financier gets bored/ runs out of money/ dies, then they need to beware. For me the biggest mistake Gretna ever made, was getting promotion to the SPL. Once they reached the SPL and started incurring costs in a different stratosphere from the level incurred at an SFL club, it meant that when Mileson withdrew his funding they had much further to fall (i.e. the mountain they had just climbed was so much taller than any they had scaled while in the SFL); so that when they eventually hit the bottom at the end of this season, the bump is likely to be terminal. Hopefully East Fife won’t make the same mistake. While it is great for a period, clubs that are bankrolled by one individual, need to be careful how far they extend themselves. If Willie Gray walks from East Fife tomorrow, it is likely they could survive in the 2nd division, or for that matter the 1st division, but the SPL is a different matter. For me, much as I would love Stenhousemuir to achieve promotion to the 2nd, and who knows, maybe even the 1st division, I sincerely hope that it is only done through developing the club, while only spending the money it has earned, and not relying on any single person’s deep pockets. It really ought to be possible to produce a championship winning team with the right manager and squad of players without breaking the bank. I just wish we would do it soon.

To stay or to go?

The season, unfortunately, would appear to be tailing off. As an eternal optimist, I will not give up hope of reaching the play-offs whilst it remains mathematically possible, but thoughts will inevitably turn to next season.

With regard to which players should be kept on, my attitude has always been that it is useless throwing out the baby with the bathwater: at our level, the sheer turnover of players from one season to the next is a major barrier to success. I would also stress that even if our current poor form continues, this season has been far from a write-off. We have a capable new manager in charge; next season he will have his own players at his disposal; and crucially, he has already proved (most notably in the period between November and February this season) that he can get Stenhousemuir playing some decent stuff.

Far be it from me to comment on every player in the squad, but I have a few points to make. Ally Brown seems a capable keeper, and is probably worth keeping unless we could get Willie McCulloch back. Willie was easily the best keeper in this league, yet will not be first choice for East Fife next year; I fear, though, that he may be tempted by another second division club. In terms of numbers, defence is perhaps our weakest area, but we are not without quality: McEwan has been outstanding this year, whilst Lyle's remarkable versatility makes him an essential part of the squad.

In the centre of midfield, Ferguson and Bucket are already under contract, whilst the wide midfielders - Hamilton and Dillon / McLaughlin - should, in my view, also be kept on. If, with better players around them, they continually fail to apply themselves, then they should be freed NEXT season - but they must first be given a chance. All of them, and especially Ross Hamilton, are confidence players whose quality can be a great asset. Up front, Hampshire is perhaps in the same category, though admittedly I have seen less of him, and he would ideally be backup to Dalziel and, if it is humanly possible for the club to persuade him to stay, Harty.

Which leaves us with the youngsters, with regard to whom I can only echo some comments made on the forum recently. If there are youngsters who are up to the task, they should now be given a chance. If those same youngsters have shown attitude problems at any point, now is the time to let bygones be bygones. I understand the importance of discipline, but I nevertheless believe that these players could be terrific assets in a more successful team. I would certainly like to see Rhys Galloway in the team for the remaining games: he is an excellent young player, but next season he will have formidable competition from incoming left back Chris McGroarty. Rhys at least deserves a chance to put himself in consideration.

In the meantime, roll on Stranraer, and in Coughlin we trust.

SHOOT!

In what was effectively the two most important matches of the season we managed to turn in our most insipid performances of the Coughlin era (Threave Rovers excepted). Quite how we managed to get through both these matches without seriously troubling the opposition goalkeeper once is quite damning. We do manage to create openings, but whether it is a lack of confidence or ability - you decide - we simply were not capable of getting the goals required. Defensively our team is strong. We don’t look like losing many goals and indeed the two goals we lost in the Arbroath came from a (debatable) penalty and deflected shot. Although Dumbarton deserve credit for having a shot at goal!! Over on the forum the debate has been reignited as to who should stay and who should go. Given that we now have next to no chance of promotion, we can resign ourselves to (yet) another season in the basement league, and face the prospect of another pre-season of players coming and going by the bucketful: Brown - keep. Has improved since his horror show at Threave and now looks like a very decent keeper at this level. Hillcoat - go; quickly. McEwen - my player of the season. Keep. Lyle - most improved player since Coughlin arrived? Keep. Smith - looks good. Strong no-nonsense defender. Keep. McCulloch - keep. I think we look a better team when he plays (at centre half) Gilbride - only on loan but I would imagine he would be released by Morton anyway. I would keep. Dillon - hopeless. Get rid. His crossing, even with his so called “better” foot, beggars belief. I have found myself squeal with anguish too many times this season because of this chap. Tyrell - keep, but only if he is going to play alongside a midfielder who can pick a pass. Because he can’t. Ferguson - will he ever be fit? Assuming he regains fitness, then keep, but maybe remunerate him on a “pay as you play” basis! He is a great player and I can’t help feel we would be closer to a promotion spot if he had remained fit all season. McLaughlin - this is a difficult one. He is a good player with nice touches. He looks a creative player, but he never actually creates anything! Having said all that he has started to turn in some decent performances recently and may be worth offering a contract for next season. Quitongo - great comedy value, hopeless player. Get rid. Gibson - he really is quite bad. Go. Hamilton - what a disappointment. I had high hopes for him on his return to Ochilview but he has been so disappointing. One of the main culprits in the “I don’t shoot” stakes. Lindsay - he’s a wee gnaff. Get rid. Hampshire - see “Hamilton” above. Came with a great reputation and has been hopeless. Has he scored a single goal all season? I can’t remember one. Go. Dalziel - hopefully he won’t prove to be a flash in the pan. Recent performances have not been great but prior to that he was really looking the part. I am not convinced he could cut it at the next level up but at this level he looks a decent player. Keep. Harty - keep, but I suspect he will want to play at least one level up next season. I had hoped it would be with us but that is not going to happen. So, all in all, another depressing season with very few high points which I won’t look back on with any great fondness. Following Stenhousemuir continues to be a labour of love.

Last minute madness

It is, of course, never over until the fat lady sings. On the stroke of full time, one moment of inspiration can be enough to win a match; by the same token, last minute lapses of concentration often prove costly. Yet this season, Stenny seem to have been affected by last minute madness even more than usual. The last two weeks provide two examples, with opposing outcomes. Thanks to Elgin's last-minute equaliser at Ochilview on Saturday, we have now gone five home games without a win (though admittedly losing only once during that spell). And whilst the more pedantic reader will point out that our winner against the Shire came on 86 minutes, it's still symptomatic of the same thing. These are far from the only examples: almost without exception, the same thing always seems to happen against Albion Rovers. This last-minute syndrome reminds me of the football I was watching last year, when I was living in Italy. Such things are weekly occurrances in Serie A. My 'local' side, Siena, secured their league status with a late winner over Lazio in the last game of last season; early on this season, meanwhile, Milan were the visitors, and the fates were reversed - it took a last-minute equaliser from Alessandro Nesta (of all people) to salvage a point for the European Champions. Cynics would suggest that this is indicative of match-fixing, but whilst corruption undoubtedly plays a part in Italian football, it cannot possibly account for last-minute action on a weekly basis. The real reason, I would suggest, lies in the defensive nature of the game in Italy: most sides are content to sit back for 80 minutes before finally trying to win the match in the remaining 10. Back in the SFL, of course, nothing could be further from the truth. Whilst many lament the supposedly lower quality of our national league, the pace and physical element to the game puts other countries to shame. As the team head for Arbroath on Saturday, they will be under no illusions about the task ahead. Arbroath are a quality side, but their slip-up in midweek has given us a golden opportunity to draw level with them in the play-off race. Let's hope, then, that any last-gasp goals are in our favour!

Derby Day Reflections

There is an unwritten rule which states that, at derby matches, the referee always favours the other side, and must be criticised as such. My own capacity to do so is inhibited by my non-attendance at last Saturday’s clash with the Shire – I was stuck down here in deepest Cambridgeshire as usual – but having watched the highlights online, I will have a go nevertheless. The penalty award seemed to stem from a Shire player being blown over by a freak gust of wind, and whilst that penalty was missed, the free kick which led to the second Shire goal looked similarly dubious. I am, of course, seeking to be provocative here. The decisions do appear dubious on the online highlights, but since the quality of ‘Shire TV’ isn’t the best, I cannot have absolute faith in my judgement. What I can have faith in, though, is the quality of our attacking play. Paul Tyrrell did well to pick out Eddie in the run-up to the first goal, and subsequently finished off a neat move for the second. With a great run and pass, Ross Hamilton started the move which led to his goal, and his return to fitness can only be good news, as anyone who witnessed his performance against East Fife, shortly before his injury last December, would confirm. The crowning glory, though, was surely Ian Harty’s glorious turn and shot for our last-ditch winner. I was interested to see John Coughlin’s interview in the Falkirk Herald last week: he reckons that a successful spell for Stenny could be Harty’s ticket back to a higher division. Rather than joining another club at the end of the season, though, our last-gasp victory means there is still a real chance for Harty to realise that ambition in Stenhousemuir colours. Our feet must remain firmly on the ground, especially now that Arbroath have returned to winning ways, but Harty adds an extra dimension to an already well-equipped Stenny side. Roll on next week!

Bye bye Firs Park

What may well have been my last ever visit to Firs Park (unless The Shire join us in the play offs of course!) , before it is absorbed by the local Retail Park turned out to be quite a thriller. Going in to the match, I must confess to a degree of apprehension. I feared the New Manager Syndrome, as this was The Shire's first match since Gordon Wylde became the latest in a long line of managers who have tried and failed to achieve anything better than last place in the Scottish League. How long they can continue to hold on to their league status despite displaying continued inadequacy remains to be seen. However, the sale of their ground, and what looks like another season propping up the other 39 teams, surely only means that they are delaying the inevitable. As for the match, well it marked Ian Harty's debut in a Warriors shirt. And it was a might impressive debut. His ability to control and pass the ball put me in mind of the last member of the Harty household to play for Stenhousemuir. The contrast was like night and day! I don't think there is a cat in hell's chance we would have won that game without him in the team. No-one else in our squad would have been prepared to take a shot from the position he was in. Too often the attitude this season seems to have been, why shoot when someone else in a much more awkward position can take a shot and miss! The presence of Harty in the team has given me renewed confidence about our ability to make the play offs at the end of the season. All in all it was a bizarre match, where we roared into the lead through the prolific Willie Lyle, only for the Shire to get their noses in front, while in between times missing a penalty (Andy Rogers likes a dive doesn't he?). Couple of belting goals they scored; one from Andy Brand who looks an excellent player - wonder where he'll be next season. We managed to get to half time on level terms with an equaliser from the not so prolific Paul Tyrell. His link up play with Eddie in the 2nd half was one of the highlights of the game. At long last he seems to have realised that the way to the opposition goal is forward, as opposed to sideways or backwards. McLaughlin remains infuriatingly inconsistent but if he could only perform like he did on Saturday more often he would be such a star for us. Second half, after a succession of heavy, late tackles, the ref finally lost patience with The Shire and reduced them to 10 men. Fantsatic I thought. Three points here we come, I thought. Hadn't reckoned on Joe Savage. Every time I have seen him for the Shire he has been absolutly brilliant. Saturday was no exception. I don't know if he saves his best performances for matches against us, but he is like a different player from the one who was as bad as it got towards the end of his spell at Ochilview. His was probably the pick of the bunch from a match that featured 7 quite excellent goals. Eventually, with the introduction of Ross Hamilton, we managed to stretch their backline even more and managed to get back on level terms through Hamilton, before Harty's sucker punch 5 minutes from time. So, a game to remember. While Firs Park might be a pretty unappealing venue, it is a unique ground, which I will be sorry to see go. Whether or not The Shire get a new home of their own, of whether they eventually disappear of the face of the footballing earth remains to seen, but at least it will leave some great, and not so great, memories.

Time to take Hart

It's been a few weeks since I posted, and during that time we've witnessed one of the most exciting Stenny signings of recent years. The arrival of Darlington striker Ian Harty is a terrific boost for all at Ochilview - we simply have to hope that he fulfils his undoubted potential.

Harty is certainly one of those players who, if raw talent were the only determining factor, would be playing at a higher level. We have had a number of other players in that category - Colin Cramb, Isaac English and John Paul McBride spring to mind. All were wonderfully gifted players who found themselves in semi-professional football due to a variety of extenuating circumstances - injury problems for English, disciplinary problems for Cramb. Yet surely those problems, paradoxically, worked to Stenny's advantage? Had the players' careers been trouble-free, I doubt we would ever have seen any of them at Ochilview. Harty is, perhaps, in the same mould - as a youngster at Stranraer, his talent was obvious, but for one reason or another, his career has hit the rocks.

By signing players of this nature, the club takes on the challenge of restoring them to their former glories. This obviously proves to be easier with some players than with others, but the likes of English and McBride demonstrate that it is possible. Can John Coughlin get Harty back to his best? Given his considerable coaching and management skills, I firmly believe that he can.

If he succeeds, our attack will be truly formidable, since Harty's likely partner - Scott Dalziel - has made a huge impression since joining in January. This can only bode well for our play-off push: despite falling to fifth place after the postponement of the Dumbarton game, the players have every right to feel confident in themselves. After all, no-one else can beat East Fife home AND away...!

Scotty Dazzler

Happy days are here again… after last week’s blip against Arbroath, and having successfully negotiated my release from domestic duties, I travelled to Methil not exactly with high hopes. I figured that if Steven Ferguson was back in the starting line up we would stand a chance, otherwise it would be backs to the wall, and 90 minutes of torture while we hold on to a 0-0 draw. Whether Ferguson would be fit was a mystery. One thing Campbell Money was good at was keeping us up to date with goings on at the club through his regular column. Since he left, Money/Coughlin Talks has not been updated, for whatever reason; so I had no idea what the prognosis was on Ferguson’s injury. Would he be fit or wouldn’t he? What about Ross Hamilton and Steven Hampshire? Surely there are goings on at the club that those without direct access to management and the board would like to know about. Back to the game – boy, is New Bayview a depressing, soulless haunt. Ochilview might not be the most impressive footballing theatre but at least it has a bit of character, and is most definitely “Ochilview”. East Fife’s new ground could be one any number of the new plastic grounds popping up over the country. When developing new grounds is this really all that is on offer? We played relatively well; very solid and difficult to get round. Bit like our manager I guess. East Fife, unlike their manager, lacked any sort of punch. While there is no doubt they are the best team in this league, I can’t help feeling that their Neanderthal tactics will get their comeuppance in the 2nd division. The tactic of punting high balls, occasionally in the direction of their 7’9” striker was less than effective, and McCulloch and Mailey coped easily enough with everything thrown at them. Up front Scott Dalziel is proving a more than capable player at this level. Up against 3rd division defences he looks a real handful. Very pacey; deceptively so. Whether he would be able to cope with the step up in leagues is another question. Hopefully he will get a chance to prove he can, next season!

So this weekend brings another big game with the visit of Stranraer. Should be interesting. Hopefully we will have some of our key players back from injury, but I suppose I’ll just have to wait until 3 o’clock on Saturday to find out.

In praise of the play-offs

The notion that we might get anywhere near 4th place would, a few short weeks ago, have been unimaginable, yet that is now where we now find ourselves, with a mouth-watering clash with Arbroath coming up this Saturday. As such, the prospect that we might make the top four got me thinking about the concept of play-offs.

The Scottish League voted to introduce play-offs a few years ago in a bid to keep the divisions more exciting. If it worked in England, it was argued, why couldn't it work for us too? For me, there was one obvious problem: in England, where divisions contain 24 teams, no team finishing below sixth place (or seventh in League Two) competes in the play-offs. The prospect of the sixth-placed team gaining promotion at the expense of the third-placed team is, of course, slightly unfair, but it is a price worth paying for the added excitement. In Scotland, on the other hand, the fourth-placed team in a division of ten gets to compete. To me this seemed far less justifiable, since fourth place is effectively mid-table.

At least, that was what I used to think. Now, however, we have a great chance of making the play-offs, and I am more than happy to sacrifice my principles for Stenny's interests. We have, of course, competed in the play-offs once before, but those were very different circumstances: in 2006, we had narrowly missed out on the title, and a play-off place was scant consolation. But this time around, given our early season difficulties, reaching the play-offs would be a terrific achievement by John Coughlin and the players.

And what is there to stop us? There are many difficult matches still to be played, but things are looking up. Scott Dalziel looks to be a good, strong striker: I was impressed with him when I watched highlights of his debut match against the Shire, and by all accounts his good form has continued. The news that both Fergie and Bucket have signed new contracts, meanwhile, is a further boost. Crucially, the team are fighting again: they put in 100% every game rather than playing in some sort of delusionary comfort zone. Provided we keep that up, there must be a possibility that even us long-distance supporters will find ourselves gripped by play-off fever!

Up or down

Having survived the nadir that was Threave Rovers, and come out the other side with my season ticket in one piece, I have witnessed the dramatic turnaround in our fortunes. Back then the woodden spoon beckoned, but only a few weeks later, and we are realistic promotion contenders. Obviously John Coughlin must take most (all?) the credit for this. I am amazed that a change in manager can have such a significant impact on any team's performance levels. The players are more or less the same, but they are simply playing much bettter. I don't doubt that a lot of this is down to fitness levels which did seem to be, shall we say, "an issue", but clearly there is more to it than that. Over on the forum there is talk about whether or not Coughlin is the "messiah" and whether we can get promotion. I wouldn't rule it out. Which got me thinking. What would happen next? Last weekend, Berwick, with Robbie Henderson marshalling the back line, were on the receiving end of a 9-2 drubbing. Iain Diack lead the line and scored two. This Berwick team, the one that looks like they are heading straight back from where they came, last season looked excellent. Admittedly they have made a few changes, not least of which is in the manager's hot seat. And where is their ex-manager now?? So, in the event that we get promoted via the plays offs, is this something we should we celebrate? In a few months time would we be the laughing stock of the league? What would we have to do to ensure that it didn't happen. For all Coughlin's good work this season, he didn't exactly set the heather alight at Berwick in Division 2? Would we have to spend a lot of money - money we don't have? There are still a number of full time teams in that league so while the idea of going up against the likes of Morton, Ayr, Raith Rovers etc is quite exciting, it also makes me ever so slightly nervous. But what's the alternative? 4 games a season ad naseum against The Shire, Albion Rovers and Montrose?

What the Dalziel!

Happy new year one and all. 2008 got off to a flyer for Stenhousemuir with a comprehensive (if we ignore the 2nd half) victory over local rivals, The Shirey Pirey. Hero of the hour was Scott Dalziel, replacement for previous fans favourite John Dempster, who had earlier swapped the relative spendour of Ochilview for Cowdungbeath. I know they are a division above, but surely there are fewer less depressing prospects in Scottish football than running out at Central Park each week. Anyway, good luck John, you were a shining light in a dismal Stenhousemuir side last season. Scott Dalziel joined Graham Gibson as the new recruits in the starting line up against The Shire. Obviously DL impressed with his 1st half performance, while his equally gangly newcomer had a quieter afternoon. Gibson, I suspect (and hope), was forced into playing in an unfamiliar right side of midfield role, presumably due to injuries to amongst other Ross Hamilton. The official website has been a little slow with updates recently (suffering from the same apathy that has swept through the club in recent months perhaps?) so I have had to rely on internet forums for news on players joining or leaving, and there has been speculation that a number of players will be coming and going over the next few weeks. There are a number of candidates for the exit door I would imagine. Has Andy Thomson played his last game in a maroon shirt? Can we expect to see Scott McCulloch strut his stuff on the hallowed plastic again? I have my doubts. And where has Jose gone? No doubt there will be others, as Coughlin builds a team to challenge for promotion. Who'd have thought this would be the case a few weeks ago. Whether you like them or not, the play offs have kept our season going long after it should have ended.