LATEST NEWS

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Match reaction

31st December 2005

Back in March Queens decided to release a young striker they had on trial, that player was Alex Williams, a noted goal getter who had made a name for himself at Morton. But how the club must rue that day! Alex went on to sign for Clyde and is now top scorer in the first division with ten goals to his credit. Four times this season he has scored against us with two of those goals coming in todays 3-0 defeat at Broadwood. He must now enjoy holding two fingers up to us. This afternoon, along with Stephen O'Donnell, he was 'tormentor-in-chief' and how Queens could have done with the goals he scored today. Talking afterwards manager Ian McCall said, "We discussed it fully after the game and none of us felt it was a 3-0 game. I'm not saying we should have won but in my mind the final scoreline was not a true reflection on the play. In the early stages we were by far the better side and both Paul Burns and Jim Thomson could easily have scored. Their opener was yet another 'gift' which came from a bad pass-back from Willie Gibson. We keep throwing these silly goals and until we stop doing that it's going to be very difficult. One plus point was the performance of wee Brian McLaughlin. He did well when he came on but he's not fully match fit yet. It was a hard battle on a big heavy pitch and I'm concerned at just how much it's taken out of the players before Monday's local derby with Stranraer. Nevertheless it's now a 'must win' game whether we like it or not. I can't see me having any new faces in for this week although I've been working round the clock. I've had a few refusals and although others have been willing to come I've got to be sure I get the right ones." Bill Goldie

Match on

31st December 2005

The pitch at Broadwood passed its 10.00am inspection and the game is ON. Remember it's a 2.00pm kick-off.

Inspection planned

30th December 2005

A 10.00am pitch inspection at Broadwood is planned prior to the scheduled game versus Clyde tomorrow which has a 2.00pm kick off time.

'Colly' to depart

30th December 2005

Midfielder, Brian McColligan, is the latest victim in manager Ian McCall's 'clear-out'. The ex-Celtic starlet was informed at training last night that he was being released--the third player to depart in as many weeks. 'Colly' joined Queens from Clydebank in July, 2002, along with his pal Eric Paton and made 91 first team appearances for the club. All at Palmerston wish Brian the very best for the future. Bill Goldie

New youth side in the town

29th December 2005

A new youth side has recently been set up, Panthers YFC of Dumfries are looking for players and staff. A trials day is set to be announced soon for players. Details of staff vacancies can be found on www.panthersyfc.moonfruit.com - please see the aforementioned website for more information. The team are also seeking Web and Shirt Sponsorship for the 2006/07 season.

The manager's view

28th December 2005

Following our satisfying performance and result against St Mirren on Boxing Day, the news that Stranraer had beaten Hamilton 5-4 at Stair Park put somewhat of a damper on proceedings. And nobody was more disappointed than manager, Ian McCall, who admitted, "Yes, it certainly makes it a lot harder for us with the gap now opened up to nine points. But we have a game in hand, against Dundee, and if we could beat Stranraer on January 2nd, the picture wouldn't look as bad. However, we just can't sit back and wait for Brechin and Stranraer dropping points, we've got to start winning ourselves. I've been heartened by our last two displays at Palmerston against Ross County and St Mirren--we should have picked up six points from those matches but only managed one, so that's where the problem lies. Not winning games at home when we have the upper hand. "This Saturday we travel to meet Clyde. Their new management team of Graham Roberts and Joe Miller have done exceptionally well since taking over in the close season and have surprised everyone. It's never easy at Broadwood but we've only collected three points on our travels so far, which is not good enough, and I'm looking for a big improvement in the second half of the season. We'll be without Gary Wood after his 'red card' on Saturday. I was considering an appeal but after watching the video footage I've changed my mind and I'll be dealing with Gary internally. He played really well prior to his sending-off and his presence will be missed. I think he'll be OK for the match at Stranraer and also the cup-tie against Hamilton, but after that I'm expecting he'll be suspended for a further three games which is a big blow. "Brian McLaughlin could well make a return to the squad. I had hoped to play him in a match we'd arranged for this week but it had to be called off owing to the weather. Colin Scott should also be back after missing Saturday's game with a calf strain. Big Brian Reid returned to the side at the weekend after being out for three months with hamstring problems and did really well. He helped steady the defence and deserves a 'pat on the back' and it was good to see him get the 'Man of the Match' award. "I'm looking forward to getting some new faces on board when the 'windows' open next week. I'm working 'round the clock' chasing players at the moment but it's not an easy job getting the right ones. I had two lined up but they both opted for clubs in the central belt--within 20 minutes travelling distance of their homes. Just how can you compete with that!. I was also talking to a Kilmarnock player but with Kris Boyd departing for Ibrox, Killie have now decided to retain him. However, I'll keep trying". Bill Goldie

Thanks

28th December 2005

The link forged with youth side Lochar Thistle Boys' Club came in useful last weekend with Palmerston all covered over with the new protective sheeting. It certainly 'saved' the game with temperatures dipping to minus 6 degrees C on the Saturday night prior to the match, but left the players with nowhere to train for their Saturday morning session. But along came a 'Good Samariton' in the form of Lochar Thistle B.C. who offered the use of their excellent playing field at Heathhall. All the players were very impressed and both chairman, David Rae and manager, Ian McCall would like to personally thank the club for their co-operation and in particular Ross Corbett and Jim Swan for all their hard work in preparing the training ground. Bill Goldie

Man of the match

28th December 2005

The placings in the weekends man of the match voting saw returning stopper Brian Reid win the award with Paul Burns second and red carded Gary Wood third. All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.

Chairmans' Message

28th December 2005

I'd like to kick-off by wishing each and every one of you here today the compliments of the season. With our printers on holiday over Christmas and New Year I'm writing this earlier than normal, so I've decided to take a look back on the year 2005 in retrospect. It started on Ne'erday with our game against Hamilton almost being called off with a torrential downpour an hour before kick-off. The match did go ahead but we lost 2-1. A week later we won 2-1 up at Montrose in the Scottish Cup with Willie Gibson scoring a wonderful winning goal, but our cup run was shot-lived. In the next round we were well beaten 3-0 by Dundee United at Palmerston, managed by a certain Ian McCall. Until mid-March we hovered around midway in the table but finished strongly--losing only one of our last nine games. Our final encounter was at Falkirk, who were league champions, but we shocked everyone by winning 2-1 to end up fourth in the table. Some said we over-achieved and on hindsight perhaps they were a grain of truth in that, as we've struggled ever since. This season has been a total disaster so far. We stuck with more-or-less the same squad with only John O'Neill returning to the club and now we must wait until the January 'window' before we can make any changes. We were knocked out in the opening round of the Challenge Cup and were beaten by Second Division Stirling Albion in the C.I.S. Cup which was a severe blow for the club financially. We've only one league victory to our credit--a 1-0 home win against Airdrie--so here's hoping we'll do a lot better in 2006. Off the field we appointed Ian McCall as our new manager to replace Iain Scott who left the club at the end of October. The new boss had a massive task ahead of him but I'm confident Ian's the man for the job. We also had planning permission granted which will allow us to commence work on upgrading our stadium to S.P.L. criteria; we forged a link with Lochar Thistle B.C. to improve our youth set-up and the Queen of the South Trust was set up. Unfortunately some 'well-kent' faces passed away. Jimmy Greenock, a stalwart of the '50s and a boyhood hero of mine; Raymond Kerr, who served us both as a player and coach in the 1970s; Alex Goodwin, a founder member of the 'Trust' and Bill Jardine, a former chairman and director and today's match is sponsored in his memory. I was disappointed that last week's match was postponed and sorry for those Dundee fans who travelled all the way down to Palmerston. But I must stress--our club was not to blame!. We adhered to every official guideline, contacted the SFA in plenty of time, and it was them who arranged the two pitch inspections. Both managers agreed with the match referee's decision and he has the final say. Today we welcome league leaders St Mirren to Palmerston and I'm sure they'll bring a big following with them. Welcome also to our sponsors and mascots here this afternoon. Enjoy the game and may the best team win--but I hope it's Queens. David Rae From official programme 26-12-05 Bill Goldie

Another early start

27th December 2005

With the match versus Clyde this Saturday now kicking off at 2.00pm the Travel Club buses will leave at 10:00am to get there in plenty of time.

Match reaction

26th December 2005

Today's Boxing Day tussle at Palmerston was a match that had everything apart from the main ingredient - goals. Although it finished 0-0 there were goalmouth incidents galore, missed chances by both sides and two red cards. Gary Wood was ordered off in the fifty fifth minute after an incident with Saints Andy Millen and a couple of minutes later Saints were reduced to ten men when another clash between John Sutton and Jim Thomson saw the Queens skipper stretchered off with a head wound that required five stitches. It's believed that both managers intend appealing against the red cards. Yet it was a great day for Brian Reid who made his comeback after three months out injured. The big man was a colossus in defence and deservedly won the sponsors man of the match award. However it proved a bad afternoon as other scores filtered through, Stranraer beating Hamilton 5-4 and Brechin earning their first league win of the season with a 3-1 victory over Clyde. Afterwards Queens manager Ian McCall said, "I'll settle for a draw with the league leaders and it's certainly a performance to build on. On another day we could have had all three points as I felt we had more clear cut chances than they had. We also had a 'stonewall' penalty turned down. They had more of the ball than we had in the second half but that suited us fine." Commented Saints manager Gus McPherson "It's never easy coming to Palmerston - it's always a hard place to win. They had all there 'big' players back, it was a point away from home and I never grumble too much about that. That's three games without a goal and that's something we'll definitely have to sit down and talk about." We were all praying that Richie Barnard would not be injured for he was the only regular 'keeper in the squad. Colin Scott was hurt in training and our young U19 'keeper was sidelined with an ankle injury. Big Stuart Hill had the gloves on just in case he was called on. He's played in goal before but fortunately he wasn't called upon. Bill Goldie

Club Shop

23rd December 2005

To enable those last minute stocking fillers for Xmas the club shop will be open this Saturday (Christmas Eve) from 11.00am to 3.00pm. Come along and help support our favourite team by buying Doonhamer souvenirs. Good wishes for the festive season to all our loyal customers. BLW

Stephen Payne released

23rd December 2005

Stephen Payne was released by the club last night. He had been at Palmerston just under two years, made 20 first team appearances but only netted one goal. However, it was a memorable one, scored against Partick Thistle at Firhill last season. He came on as sub with only two minutes to go and scored with a tremendous shot with his one and only kick of the ball. He is the second player to be released in the last couple of weeks following David McNiven's departure. We hear that David is now close to signing a deal with another club. Good luck to them both. Bill Goldie

Ground Cover

23rd December 2005

Following the postponement of last Saturday's match with Dundee, Queens have acted swiftly to ensure they'll be no repeat of the unfortunate occurance by purchasing new groundcover for Palmerston. The plastic sheets are 'state-of-the-art' and will give frost protection up to minus 4 degrees C. Said chairman David Rae this morning, "It was badly needed. We lost Saturday's game owing to a frozen pitch and also last year's Boxing Day fixture which cost us a good deal of money. We contacted the met office for a long-range forecast yesterday and were told that frost was expected over the Christmas period. We didn't want another call-off so Kevin, the groundsman, and myself contacted suppliers and eventually negotiated a deal with a firm in Northampton. They arrived up by lorry at 8.00 a.m. this morning and were laid by lunch time. There's about 30 sheets and it took about three hours to lay them, but it should be well worthwhile". Bill Goldie

Match re-scheduled

22nd December 2005

The Queens v Dundee match which was postponed on Saturday has now been re-scheduled for Tuesday, 28th February. If, however, both clubs happen to be out of the Scottish Cup by the fourth round, it will take place on Saturday, 25th February, the weekend set aside for the fifth round of the competition. Bill Goldie

Team News

22nd December 2005

For Monday's Boxing Day match against St Mirren at Palmerston, all Queens' players should be 'fighting fit'. After training on Monday night they had a full scale practice match against Falkirk at Palmerston on Tuesday night (which they won 5-2) then, following another night's training this evening they'll be back in Dumfries on Saturday for yet another session. Said manager, Ian McCall, "If they lack in anything it certainly won't be fitness. We had an excellent work-out against Falkirk on Tuesday and we played some good stuff. Obviously Falkirk hadn't their full team out but there were four or five first team men and a few 'fringe' players as well. It was great to see our two strikers getting the goals--Gary Wood with three and John O'Neill the other two. And it was also gratifying to see how much the confidence grew throughout the whole team as each goal went in. I was annoyed at the two we conceded but overall, quite happy. I was also delighted that every player in our squad got a game and there were no failures." Brian Reid came through the game O.K. and played for over an hour. The big man, who has been out for three months, will be monitored over the weekend and if all goes well will be in the pool on Monday. With Gary Wood grabbing a 'hat-trick' it's odds-on he'll be leading the line against St Mirren and that would certainly please all Queens' fans. Added the manager, "They've all been warned to 'take it easy' over Christmas but I've no worries on that score. They're all professional enough to know the score. I was a player myself and you've just got to accept it's 'part and parcel' of the game at this time of year. And on that subject I'd like to wish all our supporters a very Happy Christmas and thanks for making me feel so welcome on my return to my home town". Bill Goldie

League leaders at Palmerston

20th December 2005

Queens take on league leaders St Mirren at Palmerston on Boxing Day and we all know they have a massive fight on their hands. Points are vital but the Paisley side will be every bit as keen as we are to grab the three points at stake to protect their lead at the top. They have hit a minor slump over those past couple of weeks, only managing a goalless draw at home to St Johnstone on Saturday and suffered a 4-0 drubbing at Dundee the week previous. So they'll be coming to Dumfries 'all fired up' with Gus McPherson's words still 'ringing in their ears'. Division One is a funny old league with the seven full-time sides all out in front and the three part- time teams battling it out at the bottom. Even Airdrie, who lie seventh, have scored more goals than St Mirren who are six points clear at the top. Speaking to the 'Website' manager, Ian McCall, stated, "Saints are up there at the top of the table and rightly so!. They're a very good side, have made excellent progress under Gus McPherson and defensively are extremely difficult to break down. But in their last two matches they have failed to find the net and we have home advantage here at Palmerston. I hope we play well but points are more important than performance in our position so I'd rather have a mediocre display and win rather than play really well, as we did against Ross County, and come out of it with nothing. "It's Boxing Day and after the buzz of Christmas all the menfolk will be looking to get out of the house for a 'breather'. I'm anticipating a bumper crowd, around the 3000 mark, and I reckon St Mirren will bring over 1000 themselves. So I trust all you Queens' fans will get your vocal chords going and help us out". Bill Goldie

A 'hat-trick' for Gary

20th December 2005

Queens beat Falkirk 5-2 in a high-scoring 'closed door' training match at Palmerston tonight. Man of the Match was Gary Wood, playing in his familiar striker's role, who grabbed a fine 'hat-trick'--John O'Neill adding the other two. Scorers for the visitors was that man Andy Thomson, who netted 109 goals during his memorable spell with Queens, and young Ian McSween. Also in the Falkirk line-up was Jack Ross, Ryan McStay, most of their 'fringe' players and a few youngsters. Every member of the Queens' squad got a run-out. Brian Reid was on from the start and played for just over an hour. Bill Goldie

Not true

20th December 2005

Contrary to a rumour which has been circulating, our physio, Kenny Crichton, has not been injured in a car crash. Kenny underwent surgery last week for a kneecap problem which has been bothering him for about a year and is now using crutches to assist his mobility. Bill Goldie

Saints Match

20th December 2005

With a big crowd expected please remember the game on Monday 26th (Boxing Day) is a 2.00pm kick-off. BLW

Club Shop

20th December 2005

Despite the postponed game the Queens shop did well last Saturday and Sunday so to enable those last minute stocking fillers for Xmas the shop will be open this Saturday (Christmas Eve) from 11.00am to 3.00pm. Come along and help support our favourite team by buying Doonhamer souvenirs. Good wishes for the festive season to all our loyal customers. BLW

Cheffresh Offer

19th December 2005

Our corporate hospitality partners Cheffresh have an offer that may be of interest: "For that special person in your life! A day out with a difference! A wee bit of relaxation after the big event. Excellent 3 course meal or leftover turkey at home, the choice is yours! Queen of the South Corporate day out is a treat well deserved. Two packages available for you to choose from for Boxing Day when QOS play St Mirren. Package A £79.95 (inc.VAT) per person Match day ticket Your choice of drink from the bar, on arrival # Three course meal with coffee - New menu New selections of Red or, White wine throughout your meal Scottish Mineral Water throughout your meal And, at half time choose a drink from the bar# Enjoy a ‘Food Boost’ at half time And after Match ,a choice of drink from the bar # New gift – yours to keep as a memento of your day Match Day Programme Drink as much as you like throughout your meal, throughout the day # Also available Package B £52.25 call for more information. We can guarantee a 5 star experience and of course, the icing on the Christmas Cake would be a favourable result for Queens. Contact: Donna Day Chef Fresh Catering Limited Tel: 01387 739997 www.qosfchospitality.com"

Chairman's Message

18th December 2005

Since I last wrote these programme notes we've had three games. Against Ross County it was the best we've played all season and we were desperately unlucky to lose 3-2, but the following week up at Airdrie was a 'shocker' and possible our worst display for a long, long time. Last Saturday at St Johnstone was a lot better but we still lacked punch up front and it was a match we never really looked like winning. We've now two home games coming up but both are tough ones. Today we meet Dundee who beat St Mirren 4-0 last Saturday and on Boxing Day it's the league leaders, the Paisley side themselves. It's actually 15 years since Dundee were last at Palmerston so I hope they still remember where Dumfries is!. It was in the League Cup and we won 6-3 after a penalty 'shoot-out'. In the next round we were away but still beat Premier League Dunfermline 2-1 after extra time. In their team that night were two Dumfries boys, Davie Irons, now assistant manager at Gretna and our own Ian McCall. I wonder if our new manager still remembers that one?. But just to jog your memory Ian, it was August 28th, 1990. We have now reached the halfway mark in the season and our record to date doesn't make good reading--played 18, won 1, drawn 5, lost 13, points 8. It's our poorest start in the league since 1988, but I'm still convinced that if we can stay in there fighting until the January 'window' opens and new players arrive, we can survive. I know the manager feels the same as I do for in football if you're not an optimist you have a big problem. In the Scottish Cup we've been drawn against Hamilton Accies at Palmerston. It's not the best draw we could have had but it's not the worst either. It's at home and with new players on board by then, providing they're not 'cup-tied', I think it's a match we're capable of winning. On Tuesday night our A.G.M. was held at the Nith Hotel, Glencaple and my thanks once again to Keith and Joan Houliston for the use of their premises. There was an excellent turnout of 91and after all the financial business was taken care of we had an interesting 'Question and Answer' Forum with Ian McCall in the chair and I think this went down well with all the shareholders. A warm welcome today to our visitors from Dens Park and also to the numerous sponsors attending the game and our young mascots as well. David Rae From Official Programme. 17-12-05. Bill Goldie

Match postponed

17th December 2005

It was a big disappointment that today's match with Dundee was called off at such short notice. However, it has to be pointed out that the club did everything 'to the letter of the law'. With frost forecast the SFA were informed last night and it was agreed that a referee would be sent to check the park (if there were any doubt) at 9.30 am this morning. The official duly turned up, inspected the pitch, declared it playable and he himself notified the powers that be. Dundee were then told of the decision but when the match referee arrived he postponed the game after a lengthly inspection and a consultation with the managers who both agreed with his decision. This was decided at 1.15 pm. and the media were informed. The club apologies to the Dundee fans who made the long trip to Dumfries. It has happened to us on several occasions, even at 'far flung' corners of Scotland like Elgin and Arbroath. It's never a popular decision calling off a match, particularly at short notice, but it's never easy to predict the weather in advance either. Bill Goldie

Early kick-off

17th December 2005

All fans please note! The home match against St Mirren on Boxing Day (Monday, 26th December) will kick-off at 2.00 pm. The match at Stranraer on 2nd January however will kick-off at the normal time of 3.00pm. Bill Goldie

Game Off

17th December 2005

The game versus Dundee today has been called off following an inspection by the match official upon his arrival at the ground. It had earlier been passed as playable by a local official. Bill Goldie

Team News

15th December 2005

Following his three match suspension, Brian McColligan returns to the Queens' squad for Saturday's game against Dundee at Palmerston. Brian Reid and Brian McLaughlin are still out injured but Ian McCall is hoping both may be ready and available for selection for the Boxing Day clash with league leaders St Mirren. Said the manager, We're trying to get a 'closed doors' training match arranged next week and the two Brians will be given a 'run-out' to assess their fitness". Bill Goldie

It's been a while

14th December 2005

Dundee visit Palmerston for the first time in 15 years on Saturday (August 1990 League Cup game which Queens won in their first-ever penalty shoot-out). BLW

Bad behaviour

14th December 2005

With 39 yellows and 5 reds to date Queens top the disciplinary league for bad behaviour in Division One. BLW

AGM	13th December 2005

The Annual General Meeting of Queen of the South Football Club was held at the Nith Hotel tonight. Chairman David Rae presided over a good turnout of 91 shareholders and he gave a resume of how the loss last season came about. He was congratulated from the floor for his detailed account. Keith Houliston and Craig Paterson were both re-elected as Directors. A long debate took place on the youth setup at Palmerston. It was agreed that it was well run but could use additional funding. After the business side was taken care of manager Ian McCall took the chair for a football forum. Some interesting points came to light: 1. The manager was looking at around six players coming in with three or four players leaving. 2. He hoped to have three available for the local derby at Stranraer. 3. He had approached Aberdeen FC regarding players on loan. 4. He was considering offering Willie Gibson and Paul Burns extensions to their contract. 5. He was no longer interested in Ian Harty. Bill Goldie

Dundee at Palmerston

13th December 2005

On Saturday Queens will face a rejuvenated Dundee side making their first visit to Palmerston in 15 years. The Dens Parkers notched up an unbelievable 4-0 victory over league leaders St Mirren at the weekend and no doubt Gus McPherson would have a few choice words for his players afterwards--and they wouldn't be pleasant ones. Said manager, Ian McCall speaking to the 'Website' today, "That was Dundee's best result this season and now we've to play them on Saturday. They have an experienced side loaded with SPL players and will be difficult to beat, but if we show the fight we had against Ross County and the endeavour shown at St Johnstone, I think we can do well. Every week now we seem to come up against teams coming off the back of a great result. This week it's Dundee, before that St Johnstone who'd just knocked four past Brechin and prior to that Airdrie, right after a fighting draw at Love Street. But saying that, you must make your own luck in football, and that's what we must do. "I've set a target of at least four points from our next two home games and I'm sure our fans would settle for that. We've a 'mountain to climb' and confidence is brittle, but with the supporters right behind us it could act as that wee push up that mountain. "I want Palmerston to become a 'fortress' again!. A place visiting clubs come to with fear and trepidation, not somewhere that they can pick up easy points. When I was a player with Queen's Park and later as manager of Falkirk I never ever relished the trip to Dumfries for it was always a difficult game. "But to achieve that 'fear factor' we must stop leaking goals!. In this league if you score two you expect to get a result but that was not the case against Ross County. We played them off the park for 80 minutes but defensive errors saw us concede a couple of late goals to undo all our hard work. If we're going to win games we must tighten up at the back and that's what I've been drumming into the players". Bill Goldie

David McNiven to leave

13th December 2005

Ian McCall announced today that striker, David McNiven, has been informed that he can leave the club. Said the manager, "David can certainly score goals but it's a farcical situation that we have a player who stays near Blackpool, has to travel three hours up the road just to reach Dumfries, then about the same again to reach the likes of Perth and Dundee. But David goes with our best wishes for the future". He had been at Palmerston for eighteen months and netted 15 goals in 35 appearances. Ian added that he would be speaking to other players regarding their future over the next week to ten days. Bill Goldie

New players identified

13th December 2005

The manager also stated that he has identified most of the new players he requires. Said Ian, "They're defenders and strikers for we've more than enough midfielders. I've made contact with some of them and so far I've had only one refusal--a player who still wishes to remain in the SPL. I'd like to think I'll have some available for the Stranraer game or even the cup-tie with Hamilton if they're not 'cup-tied'. But it's 'early doors' yet". Bill Goldie

Good shot Del Boy

12th December 2005

Congratulations to Derek Lyle on winning the 'Scotsport' Goal of the Month award for November for his wonder strike against Ross County at Palmerston. We also think that Gary Wood's goal against St Johnstone at Perth on Saturday should be well in the running for the December award. Bill Goldie

Club's A.G.M.

12th December 2005

All shareholders are reminded that the Annual General Meeting of Queen if the South F.C. will take place at the Nith Hotel, Glencaple, tomorrow night commencing at 7.30 pm. After the actual meeting there will be a 'Football Forum' with Ian McCall taking the questions. Bill Goldie

Man of the match

12th December 2005

The placings in the weekend game's man of the match voting saw goal scorer Gary Wood win the award with Steve Bowey second and Paul Burns third. All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.

New for Christmas

11th December 2005

Available from Saturday 17th December will be the new QoS legends mug featuring Allan Ball, Jim Patterson, Billy Houliston and Andy Thomson priced at £6.00.

Match reaction

10th December 2005

Despite a glorious last minute goal from Gary Wood Queens still went down 2-1 to St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park this afternoon. With neither Brechin or Stranraer winning thankfully there's little change at the foot of the table, although the Stair Park men have inched another point clear. However it was a big improvement on last week and Ian McCall could at least take one or two positives from this performance. Speaking after the game the manager said, "Although we lost the effort they gave was fantastic, they're clearly playing for the jersey now which is a big thing. I don't like singling out individuals but I've got to say Gary Wood, Bowser and young Paul Burns were great. Gary scored a tremendous goal but he had an even easier chance earlier in the game which he missed. Unfortunately for us the goal came too late. Our defending was much better this afternoon but both goals were easily avoidable. I'm never happy at losing a goal from a corner and the second came from a big punt up the park although Milne finished well. The goalkeeping substitution at half time was tactical - Colin Scott was not injured. I always knew Jason Scotland would be a danger man but although he scored the opening goal I thought Gary Wood marshalled him excellently. It was a close result and I'm happier but I'm not getting too carried away for we still didn't get any points and as every match goes by it becomes more important that we start picking them up. Our fans were again great - thanks for the support. We've two home games coming up and I'm looking for four points. A tall order perhaps for we're got Dundee who scored four today and league leaders St Mirren. But it can be done." On the Cup draw the manager commented, "It's a home draw and one we can certainly win but no doubt Hamilton Accies will be saying the same thing. I hope we get a big crowd at Palmerston that day and the fans get right behind us." Chairman Davie Rae added, "It could have been better but it also could have been a lot worse. Clyde appear to be the club getting all the luck in Cup draws this year. Financially we could have done with Rangers, Celtic or one of the Edinburgh sides away but at least it's at Palmerston and not away to Peterhead, Ross County or Inverness in the middle of winter. It's one I think we could win as we will have some new players in place by them. Bill Goldie

New for Christmas

9th December 2005

New for Christmas at the club shop is the latest limited edition metal badge commemorating the now famous Wheelbarrow song priced at £3.00. Available from Saturday 17th December will be the new QoS legends mug featuring Allan Ball, Jim Patterson, Billy Houliston and Andy Thomson priced at £6.00. Graham Crofts

Essential reading for Christmas

9th December 2005

"The Bell’s Scottish Football Review is now on sale and this season’s publication provides a complete factual and pictorial chronicle of Scottish football. Produced by The Scottish Football League, and assisted by The Scottish Premier League, the Review is a fabulous exploration of our national game. This season’s edition is sponsored by Bell’s and contains 196 pages packed full with facts on all Scottish League clubs, players, managers, results, European and International matches, detailed historical records, all the strips, stadium plans, club records, players and staff information as well as a number of exclusive articles from leading writers looking at the Scottish game, both past and present.

The Review is available from:- Most W.H. Smith stores and all leading bookshops (including Waterstones, Ottakars, Borders, and many more good bookshops throughout the country). The Review is also available from most Scottish Football League and Scottish Premier League clubs." You can also purchase your copy from the Club Shop at Palmerston.

New Club Shop online

8th December 2005

The online Club Shop has had a long overdue update, so if you are looking to purchase something for Christmas have a look at what is on offer at the moment. Click on the 'Club Shop' link to the left.

Four missing for Saturday

8th December 2005

Queens will be without four players for Saturday's visit to St Johnstone. Brian McColligan is serving the final week of a three match suspension while Brian Reid and Brian McLaughlin are still recovering from injury. But Reid is now doing light training and could be playing again in two to three weeks. It's been a long time out for the 'big man' since a hamstring injury over 10 weeks ago, and he's now itching to get back in action again. Despite coming off injured at Airdrie last week, Derek Lyle is O.K. but striker, David McNiven will miss the game after having four stitches in an ankle wound sustained late in the Reserve fixture against Queen's Park on Tuesday night. On the match manager Ian McCall said, "Win, lose or draw at Perth, it certainly won't be through lack of fitness. We had a full training session on Monday evening, we'll be training again tonight and on Tuesday practically every player got a run-out in the Reserve game. If all goes well between now and Saturday, seven of them will start against St Johnstone". Bill Goldie

Well done

8th December 2005

Good to see two former Queens' players, Jamie McAllister and Robbie Neilson, help the Scotland Future side beat Poland, 2-0, on Tuesday night, with Robbie picking up the man of the match award. Although now with high-flying Hearts, both are modest and unassuming and have never forgotten their days at Palmerston. Bill Goldie

Reserves hit four

6th December 2005

Queens fielded practically a full strength side for tonights reserve match against Queen's Park at Palmerston and predictably ran out comfortable 4-1 winners. Good work down the wing by Eric Paton saw David McNiven open the scoring in the tenth minute but the visitors equalised on the half hour mark. Keeper Richie Barnard impeded a player in the box and Felvus made no mistake from the resultant spot kick. Three minutes into the second half Steve Bowey put Queens ahead again when he latched onto a pass from David McNiven and McNiven was provider again fifteen minutes later and his pass saw Paul Burns beat the keeper with a neat lob. McNiven himself scored goal number four in the seventy-fifth minute following a neat flick from John O'Neill Bill Goldie

A hard time ahead

6th December 2005

Ian McCall has a Herculean task ahead of him as he takes his side to Perth to face high-scoring St Johnstone on Saturday. Queens have had their worst start to a league season for 17 years and McDairmid Park is never an easy place to pick up points. Said Ian, "It's going to be extremely hard, for St Johnstone are an attacking side. They've netted 30 goals this season and are the highest scoring side in our division.. However, we must try to be positive and go up there and take at least a point. "It's the old syndrome, full-timers against part-timers, but we must do what Stranraer are doing, scrape points from those side above us in the table. If we can do that then beat Brechin and Stranraer when we play them, I'm convinced we still have a fighting chance. "St Johnstone have some excellent players and I know all about Jason Scotland. It was me who brought him here from Trinidad when I signed him for Dundee United--he's an outstanding player and lightning quick. There's also Owen Coyle who's now their manager but still playing. A real gentleman--we were together at Airdrie--and he's the best striker I've ever worked with. "But we won't leave Perth with anything at all if we play the way we did against Airdrie. I watched the highlights on television on Sunday and it was even worse than it looked on Saturday. Airdrie played some good football and finished well but we were so bad it made them look like Brazilians". After that display the fans were calling out for changes but the manager was quick to point out. "We can't do much until the January 'window' opens'' he stressed. "We're stuck with the same personnel, so we'll just have to 'pick and mix' to get the best formation until the turn of the year. We still have some good players but others are pulling them down. But one thing I promise, there will be changes then, with new players coming in. I've made loads of phone calls and I'm still making them. I've also been to see lots of games since taking over as manager and I know what I'm looking for. "We had a good discussion at training last night and I must say the lads worked very hard and I'll be playing some of them in the Reserve match against Queen's Park at Palmerston tonight". P.S. The game kicks off at 7.30 pm. Bill Goldie

QoS Official calendar 2006

5th December 2005

The Limited Edition Official QOS calendar for 2006 is now available. Kenny Crichton and Gareth Campbell are pictured below showing off the unique design. You can purchase them for £7.50 each and if you require them to be posted to you an extra £2.50 per calendar is charged to cover postage and package. Please a cheque or postal order made payable to Queen of the South Fan Club with your details to: Secretary Queen of the South Fan Club c/o 58 Reoch Park Springholm Castle Douglas DG7 3LL The fan club aim to deliver in time for Christmas if orders are received by 17th December. They're also available from Drew Low Newsagents in Castle Douglas or from Sandra Brown on match days. Sandra will be contacting those who have already pre-ordered to make arrangements for collection.

KC and Gareth Campbell with the new calendars

Man of the match

5th December 2005

The placings in the weekend game's man of the match voting saw Jim Thomson win the award for the first time this season with Paul Burns second and Steve Bowey third. All of the scores have been updated on the latest report page and the player of the season league table has also been updated. Thanks for voting.

Craig Hodgson

5th December 2005

If the Craig Hodgson who owns shares in the club is reading this could he please get in touch with the club in order to update his address details for the share register. His annual report and accounts were returned to the club as "No longer at this address" so it appears he has moved and not informed the club. If you read this Craig, please either contact the club on the usual contact details or through this website(see 'SHARES' link above) or alternately directly to:- Ewan Lithgow Farries, Kirk & McVean CA, 30 Castle Street Dumfries DG1 1EN Telephone 01387-252127 Further to this, if ANY other shareholder has not yet received their annual accounts could they also get in touch with me to confirm their details. You can either contact me directly or use the 'SHARES' link immediately above to update your details. Thanks Ewan Lithgow

Match reaction

3rd December 2005

Last Saturday's fighting display against Ross County bucked up the hopes of all Queens fans but this afternoon's performance brought them back down to earth again with a bang. A win every bit as easy as the scoreline suggests and four more goals conceded must be a worrying factor for manager Ian McCall. Speaking after the game he raged, "I'm absolutely gutted. Again bad defending lead to the first two goals although they were good finishes, but the last two were give aways. It was kids stuff and I was embarrassed for the fans who travelled all the way to see us. Last week there was a lot of positives even though we lost but I can't say that today. Perhaps last Saturday was a 'false dawn' but this afternoon we had new problems. I still maintain we have a lot of good players at Palmerston but there are others who are dragging them down. It's obvious we must freshen up in the windows if we are to survive. That's twelve goals conceded in our last three matches which is totally unacceptable. In every game we appear to lose the first goal and it's difficult to get a foothold in the match. "We've a glut of midfielders but sadly lacking in defenders and that's got to change. I stressed from day one that we'll have to win our own little league of three and that's how it's turning out. With Brechin losing and Stranraer drawing the gap's not by any means insurmountable. From the start I knew I had a big job ahead of me but I'm not one to give up easily." Bill Goldie

Club Shop Opening Hours

2nd December 2005

The Club Shop at Palmerston will be open on the next three Sunday's in the run up to Christmas. On the 4th, 11th and 18th December the shop will open between 2.00pm and 4.00pm. The shop will also be open on the 24th December between 11.00am and 3.00pm for those very last minute gifts. One important item to get just now is the new Christmas card that is yet again a must for every Queens fan.

Nice one Robbie!

1st December 2005

Congratulations to Robbie Neilson on his call-up for the Scotland Future team. Now starring for promotion-chasing Hearts in the S.P.L., Robbie fondly recalls his days at Palmerston in a nice article in today's 'Daily Record'. Says Robbie, "I spent four months with Queen of the South three years ago and I'm convinced it saved my career. I played a few games for Hearts when Craig Levein arrived at Tynecastle then fell out of the picture. I had been playing Reserve football for them since the age of 16 but needed a 'kick-start' which Queens gave me. "It was an opportunity for young players to get valuable experience every week playing beside senior pros such as Andy Goram and Jim Thomson. There's nothing to beat first-team football and I managed to play every week. It gave me a new lease of life when my career was in danger of stalling". Of course, Robbie also won a Challenge Cup medal during his successful spell at Palmerston which he was probably too modest to mention. Bill Goldie

The manager's confident

1st December 2005

After watching Airdrie battle out a 1-1 draw against St Mirren at Love Street on Tuesday night, Ian McCall is still confident we can beat them at New Broomfield on Saturday. Said the manager, "They played well although it was a 'tousy' match. They had the lad Docherty sent off in the second half, but did well to hold out for the draw as StMirren are unbeaten in the league at home this season. However, if we play like we did against Ross County last Saturday, I see no reason why we can't take three points". Ian is certainly 'putting in the miles' in his search for new players and, despite the weather, was down to watch Carlisle play Tranmere at Brunton Park last night. Regarding training, he said, "They're all working extremely hard and there were some tired legs after Monday night's stint. But that's how it's got to be and I'm happy at the progress being made on the training ground. Now it's up to us to turn it into results. Every game is an important one now, so every player must be fit". Team News No change from last week with the three Brians all out. Brian Reid and Brian McLaughlin are still on the injured list while Brian McColligan is still suspended. Everyone else is fit. Bill Goldie

Airdrie bound

29th November 2005

On Saturday Queens travel to meet Airdrie--the only team we've beaten in the league this season--and the majority of our fans would no doubt settle for a repeat of that 1-0 scoreline at Palmerston back in October. Last season we had a good record against Airdrie, losing only once in five meetings. We won two out of three at New Broomfield so let us all hope that augers well for the weekend. Manager, Ian McCall is taking no chances and intends to take in Airdrie's game against league leaders, St Mirren tonight. Said Ian, "Providing the match goes ahead I'll be up at Love Street. We've already had them watched but it's a golden opportunity to see them for myself. Their manager, Sandy Stewart, has done a terrific job since moving there. He's a very good friend of mine and has a lot of excellent players at his disposal--Willie McLaren, Brian McPhee and Paul Lovering to name only a few. They're a good side and it will be yet another tough one, but if we show the effort and play as we did on Saturday I'm confident we can come away with a result. "We've an extremely difficult programme ahead of us with four of our next six matches away from home. But we've got to take points from those fixtures and if we go out with the hunger and endeavour we did against Ross County, I know we will. The Dingwall club are going 'great guns' at the moment and playing some of the best football in our league, so to totally dominate the game for 80 minutes and still lose was a real sickener for us all. "Their manager, Gardner Speirs, openly admitted it was 'daylight robbery' and they were going back up the road with 'their tails between their legs', but they did collect three points. However, that's football for you, and we must learn from our mistakes. The feedback I've had from the fans is that they were all 'sick' at the final result, just like myself, but the majority admitted they could see a lot of 'positives' and were optimistic for the future. "I know myself that we must score more goals and to do that we need to get more bodies up in the box so we have three or four players in scoring positions. I realise it may leave us more vulnerable in defence but we shouldn't be losing the goals we are at present. That's eight in two games which is unacceptable, and practically every one of those were down to bad defending and could have been avoided. I'll 'hold my hands up' and accept some of the blame for the 5-2 defeat at Hamilton. I asked the lads to play a system which they were not familiar with, but against Ross County I thought they were great--apart from the goals conceded of course. "They were some excellent individual performances! Willie Gibson did some absolutely outstanding things with the ball; 'Bowser' was back at his best while our two front men, Del Lyle and John O'Neill 'ran their socks off'. Del's goal was a brilliant strike and that's four goals in three games for John and I'm delighted with that. Any fans I've met since Saturday have said, 'That's the best Queens have played all season'. I'm gratified to hear that and if it continues, I promise you the points will come. "I'd still like to bring in a few players in the January 'window', with a full-back, a central defender and a striker our main priority. I'm looking and talking all the time about replacements and only this morning I noticed in the papers that Ian Harty was going to be available and I must have been one of the first on the phone to Hamilton making enquires. I know he's been out for the last six months but if he can still knock in the goals like he used to, I'd be interested". Bill Goldie

Congratulations

29th November 2005

Congratulations to Globe Inn (Howff) Doonhamers chairman Scott (Bean) Kerr on the birth of his first grandchild Leah and, of course, the members hope she'll grow up a Queens fan like her papa. To encourage the wee lass she is now the recipient of a Dougie Doonhamer doll. BLW

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