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For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

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Season review 31st July 2005
Our review of season 2004/05 completes tonight with a look at the statistics behind the year. Many thanks are due to Ewan Lithgow for another superb summary that will always be available online via the 'Previous seasons' link. Click on the link on the right hand side of the page to see the stats.
From the Chairman 31st July 2005
After seven friendly matches, we kick-off the season in earnest this afternoon with the first round of the Bell's Challenge Cup. Generously sponsored by Bell's Whisky, and not only do they sponsor the Challenge Cup but also the S.F.L. All 30 clubs benefit from the latter and it's one deal none of us can afford to lose.

Their Chairman, Lord MacFarlane and his good wife, Lady MacFarlane have proved great ambassadors for the company and they do their best to visit all S.F.L. grounds throughout the course of the season. I've met them on several occasions and they're a real genuine couple who both know a lot about the game.

Our visitors this afternoon are Albion Rovers, and it's not a name we're going to forget in a hurry. Last season, here at Palmerston, they knocked us out of the C.I.S. Cup in the opening round and denied us the opportunity to progress further in a competition that can prove quite profitable in the later rounds. I'm still convinced that defeat coupled with our poor league form at home early on, contributed to our drop in attendancies. Nevertheless, we bid a warm welcome to the fans and directors down from Coatbridge. I hope it's a good game but, by the token, I'm looking for a win this time around.

I'm not going to go into the pre-season matches in any great detail but I feel I must mention last Saturday's 4-0 victory over Premier League, Motherwell. Unfortunately, Motherwell were reduced to ten men which took a bit of the shine off our win, but it was still an excellent performance.

Over the past few weeks I've been taking in quite a few friendly matches and I've actually been to Annan's Galabank Park five times. Apart from our own two friendlies down there I watched Annan v Motherwell, Gretna v Livingston an the final of the Annan annual tournament which saw the homesters well beaten 6-0 by Stranraer.

I must say I was most impressed by the Stair Park side. They're one of the biggest teams I've ever seen but their smalleat player, Paul Walker, turned out to be their star man and scored a 'hat-trick'. So we'll certainly have to be on our toes when we meet them in a few weeks time.

David Rae

Reproduced from Saturday's official programme v Albion Rovers

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 30th July 2005
It wasn't easy in the first half but by the final whistle it finished 4-0 for Queens so it all turned out fine in the end. Said manager Iain Scott, "It was a big improvement on last year when they won 2-1. We didn't only want to win today but we also wanted a good performance and some goals to bring the crowds back. I wanted them to be hungry for goals and although we did score four I was not entirely happy at our finishing. Del Lyle himself should have had at least four but to be fair to him he's still not 100% fit yet."

Asked why Eric Paton wasn't in the team Scotty replied, "Gary Wood was outstanding against Motherwell last week and scored two goals. How could I leave him out? All the players know the score and they have to play for their places just look at the quality on our bench today and consider the lads who weren't even stripped. We're much stronger than we were this time last year."

John O'Neill had to leave the field with a hamstring injury but the manager said, "I don't think it's too serious. We had him off the park right away and got ice on his leg. I'm hoping it's only a ten day job."

Rovers boss man Jim Chapman wasn't too disappointed and stressed, "I knew we were in for a tough game for Queens are a well established side. They had a much higher fitness level than us and better quality players, our team was made up of young boys who worked hard but were a bit naive at times. They were given a lesson today they'll learn by experience. Our 'keeper Jamie Ewings pulled off some good saves or the score might have been higher but having said that we should have netted a couple ourselves. The park was in excellent condition and we enjoyed our day. So good luck to Queens in the next round.

Sponsors man of the match Stuart Lovell also enjoyed the match. Said the likeable Aussie, "It was nice to get my first goal for Queens - infact it's my first goal for over a year. It was good to be chosen as sponsors man of the match and I appreciated the Rolf Harris ditty as I left the field. But we're not going to get carried away with the four goals for it just 'papered over' some obvious cracks. We missed a lot of chances out there today and we gave them some chances they shouldn't have had. I thought Brian McLaughlin and Stephen Payne were outstanding but to be honest we should have scored more."

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 29th July 2005
Man of the match from our last pre-season friendly was two goal hero Eric Paton with playmaker Willie Gibson second and trialist Stuart McGrady third.
New look programme 29th July 2005
You will see a new look Queens programme tomorrow as we increase the size and introduce colour pages for the first time. The centre spread will provide exclusive action photographs from the previous match and the front cover will see the opponents featured in an equivalent match from last season. The price of the programme is £2.00 for this season.
Away tops available now 29th July 2005
We now have a full range of away tops in the club shop. You can purchase yours tomorrow at the Albion Rovers game as we have all sizes available.

We also have a new stock of the very popular Doonhamers wristbands available for purchase.
Limited Edition Badge 28th July 2005
To celebrate the launch of the new club strip with new sponsors, Dumfries Body Repair Centre, a limited edition of 100 metal badges, priced at £3.00 each, has been produced. These are available now from the Club Shop.
Milk Cup update 28th July 2005
As promised more news on the Milk Cup to be played in Northern Ireland next week. Queens will be represented by their Under-15 squad who are in the Junior section. They play their opening match on Monday, 1st August when they meet Swedish side, A.I.K. Stockholm and the following day they face Everton in their second game. Other big names competing in the same group are: CSKA Moscow, CBF Brazil and from England--Crewe, Ipswich Town, Stoke City and Swindon Town.

After that it all gets a bit complicated. Explained coach, Gordon Hyslop, "There are 24 teams in our age group and after they've all played their two opening matches their respective points totals are added up. The top eight go in a section for the main trophy, the Milk Cup; the second eight play for the B.T. Trophy and the last eight for the Montgomery Trophy. So every team will get their fair quota of games".

Up-to-date news on how our young hopefuls fare will be posted next week.


Back row left to right: N Torriani, E Lindsey, M Smith, N Higgins, L Walker, R Hyslop, I Cairnie, D Hanley, D Rae
Front row left to right: T Hanley (Coach), R Adamson, B McGauchie, P Leighfield, A Muirhead, N Muirhead (Coach), R Steele, J Nixon, M McGinley, D Carmichael, G Hyslop (Coach)
Missing from picture: G Mitchell and D Rice, also coaches F Smith and D McCann

Bill Goldie
Up for the Cup 28th July 2005
It's cup day on Saturday and manager, Iain Scott, assures us that, "They'll be really up for it this time". He recalls, "We lost to Albion Rovers in the C.I.S. Cup last season and it cost the club dearly financially. The Chairman's never let us forget it and their hardly a day goes by when it's not cast up. But I fully realise it was a bitter blow to the club (and the fans) to lose last year and we all know we can't afford to let it happen again.

"We've got to treat Albion Rovers with more respect this time. In our last meeting the players came in at half time saying how easy it was and appeared to totally 'switch off' in the second half. But they've all been told, and it won't happen again, so I want to see them more professional and more ruthless in front of goal. In the 'real world', 9 times out of 10 a first Division club would beat a Third Division side, but it's a cup-tie and there's always a shock here and there. That's exactly what lower league clubs look for, so we must guard against it happening again.

"We've no injuries, everyone's fit at this moment in time, so we've no excuses on that score. I only wish it was like that for the rest of the season, but I know it won't be".

ANNAN MATCH: "I was at training so I didn't manage down myself for the game against Annan last night. However, Warren was there and he said, 'It was well worthwhile and all the lads had a good run-out'. I'm told we were poor in the first half but Warren had 'a go at them' at half-time and it appeared to have worked. They showed character coming back from two down to win and I'm happy with that. Our 'trialist', Stuart McGrady from Ayr United, was quite 'pacey' and we'll be getting him back down again for another look".

WHORLOW SIGNS AGAIN: "Young Mark Whorlow, a member of our Under-19 squad last season has returned and signed a new one year contract. He approached us and I like it when a player really wants to play for Queen of the South. The Reserve League fixtures will be out soon so we'll have to get all our young players geared up for that. One good thing, all these games can be played any day of the week--even on a Sunday--so they shouldn't clash with first team fixtures in any way".

Bill Goldie
Tough Baptism 27th July 2005
New Albion Rovers manager, Jim Chapman, reckons he's in for a 'tough baptism' when he brings his team to Palmerston on Saturday. "Put it this way" said Jim, "If I was asked who I wanted to be drawn against, Queen of the South would certainly not have been top of my list. I would have preferred a much easier venue than Palmerston for my first game in charge, nevertheless I'm really excited and looking forward to the challenge.

"Queens are a well established side with a lot of good players and there have been few changes in their ranks during the close season. They've a good manager down there in Iain Scott and I know Brian Reid very well, so I'm aware we're in for a difficult game.

"I was down watching them play Carlisle last Wednesday night and they lost 2-1. But I'm not putting too much store on that result for, on the Saturday, they turned round and beat Motherwell 4-0, so I'll judge them on that.

"'We've had more than our fair share of trouble during the summer which has been well documented. There have been major changes at the club and we've had to struggle to get a team together for the start of the season.

"'As I said before, we all know it will be hard at Palmerston and we've got to be realistic and accept Queens are strong favourites. When the draw was first made our fans were quick to point out to me that we beat Queens at Palmerston in the C.I.S. Cup last year. However, I was equally quick to remind them, 'But where did we finish in the league--second bottom'. And to me, that's the 'Big Picture'

"We'll go into the game as 'underdogs' and that suits we fine. We'll use it as a 'stepping stone' and a 'learning curve' and an opportunity to improve our fitness level for I'm sure we must be four to six weeks behind everyone else. But one word of warning to Queen of the South--underestimate us at your peril".

Bill Goldie
Trialist to play at Annan 27th July 2005
Queens have added a 'trialist' to their squad for the match at Annan tonight. Said 'Scotty', He's Stuart McGrady, a 20-year-old midfielder from Ayr United. He 'caught my eye' in a game I was watching so I thought there was no harm in getting him down and having a look at him".

However, the 17-year-old forward from the Newcastle area, dubbed the 'new Peter Weatherson' by the manager, won't feature tonight.

Bill Goldie
Who'd be a Groundsman 26th July 2005
Want to get fit? Then become a football groundsman. We've just discovered that cutting the grass at Palmerston still takes quite a few hours and by the time he's finished the groundsman will have covered almost seven miles. At this time of the season it needs cut three times a week--so that's 21 miles--almost the distance of a marathon.

The total area of Palmerston Park (outside the touchlines) measures 116 yards x 78 yards and it takes 105 lengths up and down with the mower. So work that out for yourselves.

Bill Goldie

Groundsman Kevin McCormick
Queens at Annan 26th July 2005
Queens will be taking a strong squad (which includes seven first team regulars) for the friendly match against Annan Athletic at Galabank tomorrow night. Said Iain Scott, "Colin Scott will be in goal and it will be his first real game since his operation at the end of last season. We'll also be fielding players like Jim Thomson and Derek Lyle who have not had a full match yet. Eric Paton will also be there and one or two more first team players. It's also a good opportunity to play 'fringe' players and the young lads to get them experience, and I intend doing that as well.

The match kicks-off at 7.15 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 25th July 2005
A new pre-season man of the match winner this evening from Saturday's demolition of Motherwell - Gary Wood for an all-round robust performance and two goals to boot. Second place went to Chris Carr - a star again and third to Stuart Lovell for keeping things organised.
Cup draw mysteries 25th July 2005
What's wrong with newspapers and cup draws at the moment? In last Wednesday's 'Standard' they had us meeting Albion Rovers or Brechin City at home in the C.I.S. Cup (last year's draw) and in the usually reliable 'Sunday Post' this weekend, they have us at home to Hamilton in Saturday's Challenge Cup fixtures.

We can assure all our supporters that on Saturday we are at home to Albion Rovers in the first round of the Bell's Challenge Cup and on Wednesday, 10th August we are away to Stirling Albion in the first round of the C.I.S. Cup.

Bill Goldie
Off to the Milk Cup 25th July 2005
Queens' Under-15 squad will set sail from Stranraer on Sunday to take part in the Milk Cup, one of the most prestigeous youth tournaments in the world. Held in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, the Queens' youths were invited for the first time last year and so impressed their hosts that they were asked back again.

They will arrive just in time for the official opening ceremony to be held in Coleraine itself, and all the top clubs and countries in the world will be represented. Said Queens' youth coach, Gordon Harper, "It is indeed an honour to be invited back for a second year. Most folk won't realise but this is one of the biggest international youth tournaments in the world".

The boys will again be housed in the plush University of Ulster and apart from Gordon himself, other coaches making the trip will be Fred Smith, Neil Muirhead, Tom Hanley and Dave McCann.

More Milk Cup news later in the week.

You can also check the official Milk Cup website at Milk Cup

Bill Goldie
Question answered 24th July 2005
Our 4-0 defeat of Motherwell yesterday sparked off the inevitable argument--When did we last stick four goals past the 'Steelmen'?

It was actually in 1951-52, the season after we were promoted having just won the 'B' Division Championship. Ironically, Motherwell beat us 4-0 at Fir Park in October but in the return fixture at Palmerston on the 9th of January, we defeated them 4-1.

But let's not get too carried away. Saturday's match was only a friendly and Motherwell played with only 10 men for most of the game.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 23rd July 2005
Albeit we were up against ten men for seventy-five minutes but Queens gave one of their most scintillating displays of football for a long time to beat Premier League Motherwell 4-0. The sending off upset both the managers but credit still must go to Queens who really gave their opponents the runaround.

After the game Iain Scott came out of the dressing room smiling but very modest. "Let's not get too carried away with the result" he stressed, "we were given a lesson by Carlisle on Wednesday night but we were a different team today and played the type of football I know we're capable of. However I was most annoyed by the red card! Motherwell are a great club and came down here to play us in a football match and it shouldn't happen in a friendly."

Asked to name his man of the match Scotty replied, "Perm any one from five, Tommy English, Stephen Payne, Gary Wood, Chris Carr or Stuart Lovell - but I'd give it to Stuart - he controlled the whole midfield, he's pure class, and it's a different team when he's in the side."

It was Terry Butchers first ever visit to Palmerston but after today the Motherwell manager won't want to return in a hurry. Clearly angry at the referee he raged, "Our lad David Clarkson says he did nothing wrong and now he'll miss next weeks game against Celtic. I don't think it warranted a red card! It was like ten men against twelve out there this afternoon - however I'm not going to take any credit away from Queen of the South. They pass the ball about really well, they were sharper than us and they were better than us. I've no complaints whatsoever at the result, infact they could have scored two or three more.

NOTE Queens will play one more pre-season friendly on Wednesday night when they make a return trip to Galabank to play Annan Athletic again. Kick off - 7.15pm.

Bill Goldie
Carlisle aftermath 22nd July 2005
Manager, Iain Scott, was still on about the Carlisle match when he spoke to the 'website' earlier today. Said 'Scotty', "I knew they were a very good team and it would be a really tough game as they signed some top quality players during the close season. Just prior to the match the directors asked me 'Do you think we'll win?'. My answer was 'No' and I was proved right.

"Paul Simpson was 'over the moon' at the way his lads played, particularly in the first half, and he's every right to be happy at that performance. They play the game at a different level than us and it proved a right 'eye opener' for us all--directors, players and fans alike".

Moving on to Saturday 'Scotty' added, "Terry Butcher says he's bringing a really strong squad so it will be another real test for us. Brian Reid's still out and it will be 50-50 whether Stuart Lovell plays or not, but I'm not prepared to take any risks. Jim Thomson was understandably lacking in match practice last night and Chris Carr's injury was no worse than a knock on the head, so he should be O.K. Chris had yet another brilliant game against Carlisle and certainly 'caught the eye' of the Brunton Park management team".

Bill Goldie
New ground for Terry 22nd July 2005
Motherwell boss, Terry Butcher, will be 'treading new ground' when he visits Dumfries on Saturday. Said Terry, "I've never played at Palmerston Park, in fact it's one of the few grounds in the country I've never set foot in before. However, I've been informed that the pitch is in excellent condition at present and that's what I like to hear for we're a 'football playing' side.

"We met Queens in the Scottish Cup a couple of years ago and it was very close so I'm expecting stiff opposition. We'll be fielding our strongest line-up possible but we've one or two lads we might not risk as we play Celtic the following Saturday.

"We've had a good pre-season build-up and some encouraging results, so I'm looking forward to a nice day out. Iain Scott has done a excellent job since 'taking over the reins' from John Connolly last season and guided Queens to a fourth top finish in his first year of managership. Iain's a great lad and I've a 'lot of time' for him. He has the right philosophy on football and I like him a lot".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 22nd July 2005
Top man versus Carlisle on Wednesday night was once again central defender Chris Carr who beat off the challenge of Stephen Payne closely followed by Richie Barnard.
Match reaction 20th July 2005
Queens were outclassed by a superior Carlisle side tonight and although they could have snatched a draw in the closing minute the 2-1 scoreline still flattered them. A slip by Jim Thomson led to the first goal and slack defending saw us lose another before half time. Out only reply was a free kick from Tommy English which flashed past the upright and a dipping shot from Bowser which the 'keeper tipped over the bar.

Stephen Payne pulled one back late in the game with a superb free kick and Queens almost grabbed an undeserved equaliser in the final minute however Carlisle were worthy winners.

Manager Iain Scott totally agreed and after the match commented, "We were beaten by a much better team, They were an excellent side-well organised and very fit. They were strong at the back and quick up front and deserved their victory but again underlined the gap between Scottish and English football. They were a better side than Falkirk who were promoted last season and in my opinion would have 'walked' our league had they been playing in it.

"We strolled through our first three friendlies but tonight was a 'wake-up-call' and brought us back to earth. And yes, we could well have grabbed a draw late on but by that time Carlisle had substituted several of their best players."

The crowd tonight was 1,536 with 455 up from Carlisle.

Bill Goldie
It's Stirling away 19th July 2005
Queens will meet Stirling Albion at Forthbank Stadium in the opening round of the C.I.S. Cup. The draw was made this afternoon and the game will be played on Wednesday, 10th of August.

Said chairman, David Rae, "I was hoping for a home tie for we've only got one match at Palmerston during the entire month of August. However we've been drawn away to Stirling Albion, managed by an ex-Queens' player, Allan Moore, so we'll just have to go up there and beat them and then keep our fingers crossed for a home draw in the next round".

Manager, Iain Scott, was in full agreement with the chairman and admitted that he too was after a home tie. Said 'Scotty', "Yes, I'm a bit disappointed it's away from home. Nevertheless, it gives us a good chance to progress to the next round, but it won't be easy. Although we start favourites I'm sure Allan Moore will have his men all 'fired up' for the occasion".

Bill Goldie
Junior Blues please note 19th July 2005
The club shop will open specially from 12 noon till 3.00 p.m. on Friday (22nd July) to allow 'Junior Blues' to purchase their season tickets. They are priced at £45 (the same as last year) and it's hoped that two of Queens' star players, Eric Paton and Derek Lyle, will be in attendance for a chat. So get yourselves along to the club shop on Friday.

Bill Goldie
Three missing for Carlisle clash 19th July 2005
Three of Queens' most seasoned players Stuart Lovell, Brian Reid and skipper, Steve Bowey will miss tomorrow night's friendly match against Carlisle United at Palmerston.

Said manager, Iain Scott, "Although Stuart Lovell's ankle injury is not as bad as we first feared, he won't make it for the Carlisle match, but we're hoping he'll be O.K. for the game against Motherwell on Saturday.

"Big Brian Reid is also out. He's strained an abductor muscle in his thigh and I don't think he'll be fit to play until our cup-tie against Albion Rovers a week on Saturday.

"As most of you know, Steve Bowey works for 'Wasa' and part of his job is laying floors which requires a lot of kneeling. Last week he ended up with a trapped ligament behind hie knee, but although that's been cured, he's now strained a hamstring muscle by bending differently in trying to protect his knee problem. So it's just 'wait and see' with 'Bowser'.

"Back, however, is Jim Thomson. He returned from Jamaica at the weekend after being delayed with the hurricanes over there but has been training hard while away. We checked his fitness level last night and he passed no bother. I'm not saying he'll be on from the start but he'll feature at some point against Carlisle".

Added 'Scotty', "I read what Carlisle assistant manager, Dennis Booth, was saying about 'ressurecting the friendly matches between ourselves and Carlisle United'. I can only echo his words and agree 100% with what he said. There's only about thirty odd mile between us and I travel three times that to get to Palmerston from my home in Newcastle practically every day. So distance is no object!

"They're nice people down there and friendly neighbours and we have a mutual respect for each other. When I spoke to their manager, Paul Simpson, while arranging the game we agreed that we wanted to see attractive football not a 'kicking match'. We both try and play good football and that's what I'm looking forward to tomorrow night. Also, a big crowd of course!"

The match kicks off at 7.30 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Carlisle at full strength--well, almost! 18th July 2005
Midfielder, Chris Lumsdon will be the only first team regular missing when Carlisle United visit Palmerston on Wednesday night. Said assistant manager, Dennis Booth, "Chris may require an operation so we won't risk him, but apart from that we'll be bringing our full first team squad to Dumfries. I'm really looking forward to the match for I've only been to Palmerston once before and that was way back in the early 1970s when I was a player at Blackpool and we played Queens in a friendly.

"Carlisle and Queens haven't met much in the past few years so it would be nice if we could resurrect these friendlies on a more regular basis. After all, we're only just over 30 miles apart--a 45 minute journey--and I'm sure we'd get a decent crowd. I know quite a few of our fans will be heading north on Wednesday night and I'd be disappointed if there's not at least 300 there to cheer us on".

Like ourselves, Carlisle have played four pre-season friendly matches to date--all away from home. They beat Penrith 6-0, defeated Bishop Auckland 5-1, drew 0-0 with Worcester City and won 2-0 at Woodley Sports on Saturday. After they meet Queens they're off across the Irish Sea for a four club tournament in the Isle of Man and they then have home games against Middlesborough and Tranmere Rovers before their season starts in earnest.

Our last meeting with our Border rivals was in July, 1996, when they beat us 2-1 at Palmerston. In fact, since 1969 we've met them six times at home and only managed one win and one draw. However, our last official visit to Brunton Park was, believe it or not, in 1967 with Carlisle 1-0 winners.

Bill Goldie
Stuart Hill signs 18th July 2005
Stuart Hill signed a one year extension to his contract on Saturday. The young defender's signature now takes the first team squad numbers up to 23.

Bill Goldie
C.I.S. Cup draw 18th July 2005
The draw for the first round of the C.I.S. Cup will take place tomorrow afternoon.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 18th July 2005
Top man versus Hibs on Saturday was central defender Chris Carr who beat off the challenge of Richie Barnard closely followed by John O'Neill.
Match reaction 16th July 2005
No goals, but an entertaining encounter which was enjoyed by the 1220 crowd. Said manager Iain Scott after the match, "It was a good workout against a fairly strong Hibs side and I thought our fitness held up well. Our passing was good and there was a lot of good moves but our finishing was not clinical enough. We had two or three really good chances which should have been stuck away but I was reasonably happy with the overall performance".

Unfortunately Stuart Lovell had to come off near the end with an ankle ligament injury but it's too early to assess just how serious it is. Brian Reid also had to leave the field owing to a strained leg muscle.

Bill Goldie
Memories of the Modern Era 15th July 2005
The new 'Memories of the Modern Era' books go on sale at the Club Shop before and after the game versus Hibernian tomorrow. It's a 'must have' for any Queens fan, following in the footsteps of the original fifty year book published in 1969 and then the seventy-five year book in 1994, this new publication brings the history of Queen of the South right up to date. Written by club Press Officer Bill Goldie the new book enjoys the benefit of being the first book about Queens that has been published in full colour and includes a special autographed sheet for all the young fans.
The past ten years have contained some of the most important and successful seasons in the history of the club with a league championship and the winning of a national trophy. Consolidation of the club as a first division side has been achieved in recent years and this book details exactly how that was achieved.

The cover price of the book is £7.00 and it can be purchased from the Club Shop tomorrow and then pre and post match at all home games. It will also be available from Monday, 18th July at the Tourist Information Centre on the Whitesands, Low's Newsagents in Castle Douglas, the Sport and Trophy Shop in Lockerbie, Johnson's Sports in Kirkcudbright and the Crown Inn at Sanquhar.
It can be purchased mail order £8.50 (inc. post and packaging) either by phoning Palmerston with your credit card details or alternatively by posting a cheque or postal order with your contact address to the club.

If you really can't wait then we have also set up an online payment system through Paypal that will allow you to pay for the book now. The price for this facility is from £9.00 depending on what country you live in and includes post and packing and covers the fees for Paypal. Click on the appropriate payment links below to pay now. If you are unsure what postage zone you are in then check the Royal Mail site on Airmail rates.

If you are in the UK click on this payment link: - £9.00

If you are in the European postage zone click on this payment link: - £9.88

If you are in the Zone 1 postage zone (USA/Canada) click on this payment link: - £11.33

If you are in the Zone 2 postage zone (Australia/NZ) click on this payment link: - £11.76
Riordan in Hibs squad 15th July 2005
Hibs confirmed this morning that Derek Riordan would be in their squad for the visit to Palmerston tomorrow. The 22-year-old striker, a Scottish internationist, scored a 'hat-trick' in his club's recent friendly at Berwick--his first strike coming in only 20 seconds.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 15th July 2005
Top man in the friendly at Galabank on Wednesday was John O'Neill who with two superb strikes just took the award from fellow scorers Brian McLaughlin and third place Scott Robertson.
Season review 15th July 2005
The season review is updated tonight and covers the month of April. Click on the link on the right hand side of the page to read how we fared.
One for three programme 14th July 2005
The three friendly matches coming up at Palmerston versus Hibs, Carlisle and Motherwell will all have the same programme. The special issue will cost £1.00 and can be purchased direct form the club mail order for £1.50. It has twenty pages - five per team and is an advertisement free zone.
Queens take on Hibs 14th July 2005
After three away matches, Queens play their first home friendly of the season on Saturday with Hibs as the visitors to Palmerston. They will, however, be facing 'unknown opposition' as the Easter Road side won't be finalising their squad until Friday.

And manager, Iain Scott, knows full well that it will be a tough one. Said 'Scotty', On their day they are as good as they come in the Premier League and qualified for Europe last season. So it will be a hard and will really test our fitness to the limit.

"I know Hibs are playing at Ayr on the same day, but they have more than enough players on their books to field two good squads. Tony Mowbray told me he'd be bringing the stronger of the squads to Palmerston and promised there would be some internationalists in their line-up.

"I know I criticised the Palmerston playing surface a few times last season, but it's as good as I've seen it now, and it's all down to the hard work done by our groundsman, Kevin, during the close season. I'm certain the pitch will suit both teams for, like ourselves, Hibs try and play attractive football. I'm informed that they took over 1000 fans with them for a friendy in Ireland last week, so I'm looking forward to an enjoyable match and a big crowd. So get yourselves along!

"We've a slight doubt on 'Bowser' who has picked up a wee bit of an injury at work but we're hoping he'll be O.K. However, Jim Thomson isn't back from Jamaica until Saturday, so he won't feature".

Note: The match kicks off at 3 p.m. Admission is £5.00 for adults (including senior citizens) and £1.00 for juveniles.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 14th July 2005
Queens retained their unbeaten record in pre-season friendlies with a comfortable 5-0 victory against Annan Athletic at Galabank last night. There was a decent crowd there, the majority of which appeared to be Queens' fans, and they enjoyed five great goals from John O'Neill (2), Brian McLaughlin (2) and young Scott Robertson.

Afterwards manager, Iain Scott commented, "I was very happy with our first half performance but not so with the second half showing. We should have had a lot more goals and I told the players that. All five strikes were 'top drawer stuff' and I thought John O'Neill's second was 'goal of the game'. Brian Reid, Chris Carr and Gary Wood just strolled through the match, John O'Neill and Brian McLaughlin were 'pure class' while young Scott Robertson's goal was brilliant.

"I didn't play Richie Barnard as he had a slight calf strain but it was just a precautionary measure. Colin Scott's still not fully recovered from his operation, our young 17-year-old reserve keeper is 'out' injured and we've asked Stuart Robertson to return and help us out for a few weeks. So that's why Stuart was playing at Annan. As for 'Bowser' and Stuart Lovell--they were both given a well-earned rest".

Bill Goldie
Line up 2005/06 12th July 2005

Back row: Gary Wood, Brian Reid, Colin Scott, Richie Barnard, Scott Robertson, Paul Burns

Middle row: Kenny Crichton(Physio), Richard Maxwell, Brian McColligan, John O'Neill, Chris Carr, Gareth Campbell, Stuart Lovell, Warren Pearson(Assistant Manager), Tony Stuart(Masseur)

Front row: James Baty, Brian McLaughlin, Willie Gibson, Eric Paton, Iain Scott(Manager), Steve Bowey, David McNiven, Stephen Payne, Tommy English
Queens at Annan 12th July 2005
With the exception of Jim Thomson (still abroad), Queens will take a full squad of players to Annan for tomorrow night's friendly. Said manager, Iain Scott (still sun-tanned from his fortnight in Cyprus), "Brian Reid will make his first 'start' of the season and we hope to feature Derek Lyle at some stage of the game". The match kicks off at 7.15 p.m.

Please note: The kick-off times for the remaining three friendly games (all at home) will be--Hibs, 16th July, 3.00 p.m.; Carlisle United, 20th July, 7.30 p.m.; Motherwell, 23rd July, 3.00 p.m. Admission at all three matches will be: Adults (including senior citizens) £5.00. Juveniles £1.00.

Bill Goldie
Bill Jardine 11th July 2005
It is with regret that we report the death yesterday of ex-chairman and director of Queen of the South, Bill Jardine. He first became a director of the club in 1975, following in the footsteps of his father, Thomas Rae Jardine, who himself was a director for a great many years.

Bill was General Manager of the Dumfries and Galloway Standard (latterly Scottish and Universal Newspapers) for over 20 years and was a former editor of the Queen of the South programme. He served on the Palmerston Board for over 18 years, was chairman in 1993-94 and also wrote the two books to commemorate the 50th and 75th anniversary of the club.

His funeral will take place on Monday, July 18th in St Mary's/Greyfriars Church at 2.00 pm followed by a private cremation at Roucan Loch.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 11th July 2005
Top man for Queens on Saturday at Leigh was John O'Neill, with Stephen Payne second and Gary Wood third. Thanks for voting
Annan kick-off 10th July 2005
The next Queens friendly against Annan Athletic on Wednesday evening will kick-off at 7.15pm.
Match reaction 10th July 2005
After the 1-1 draw at Leigh yesterday, manager Warren Pearson commented, "It was a big improvement on the Queens Park game and had we taken our chances we would have won comfortably. But I'll give our lads the benefit of the doubt on that one, for the pitch was actually a rugby field. It was badly rutted and the ball took some queer bounces at times.

"Before they went out I told them to stay tight at the back and play as a team, and that's what they did. Young Richie Maxwell again had a good game in defence and he shows tremendous promise for the future while our midfield trio of Bowey, Lovell and McColligan were well on top.

"We had six 'clean-cut' chances but only took one of them when David McNiven scored against his old side. However, with players like Lyle, O'Neill and McNiven up front I know the goals will come.

"I felt we played really well considering the 'red-hot' heat and the performance was so much better than this time last season when we played Barrow. I remember 'Scotty' and I came away from there 'scratching our heads' and a bit worried what the future had in store for us, however, as you all know, it turned out all right in the end".

'Wasa' also raved about the fabulous travelling support and added, "They were absolutely fantastic and all the players and myself are really appreciative of such great fans. There must have been over 200 there and it proves once again what tremendous supporters we have at Palmerston".

Bill Goldie
Season review 8th July 2005
The season review feature now moves to Friday evenings and tonight it is the month of March that come under the microscope. Click on the link on the right hand side of the page to read how we fared.
Queens head South 8th July 2005
Queens headed south of the border this morning for their second friendly match of the season against Leigh R.M.I. and we believe that quite a lot of fans will be setting off down the M6 tomorrow to cheer them on. Tonight the squad will split into two teams for a full-scale practice match in preparation for the game with Leigh tomorrow.

One player looking forward to it more than most is David McNiven who spent a season at Hilton Park before signing for Queens last summer. Said the striker, "It will be a bit strange but, yes, I'm looking forward to returning to my 'old stomping ground'. I had a happy time down there and was voted 'Player of the Year' by the fans, so I think I'll get a pretty good reception.

"I scored 28 goals for them that season and three of the best were against Richie Barnard who was with Aldershot at the time. And I've never let him forget it!

"Since I left Leigh they've made sweeping changes--three new managers and there's hardy a player left that I know. They now compete in Conference League North but are getting a new stadium built which should be a decent platform in their push for promotion. They'll be sharing the new ground with the local rugby side for Rugby League is 'very big' in Lancashire.

"Although I'm a former player they'll be virtually an unknown force to me with so many new faces around but I'm sure it will still be enjoyable seeing all the Leigh fans again. We got all the close season 'cobwebs' out of the way against Queens Park on Wednesday night so I'm now looking forward to the three big home friendlies against Hibs, Carlisle and Motherwell and then on to the new season".

Bill Goldie
Queens Park 1-2 Queens 6th July 2005
Queens opened their pre-season with a theoretically "closed doors" friendly against Queens Park at St Aloysius in Glasgow tonight. Despite the "closed door" status a crowd of about 100 or so were on hand to see a strong side (at least to start with anyway) ease to a 2-1 victory which was not without a few scares.

The Doonhamers only really showed their abilities for a fifteen minute spell either side of the interval but during that time scored twice. Brian McLaughlin was the goal hero tonight scoring both goals from unmarked positions in the six yard box. The first arrived on 40 minutes from a long ball forward from right back whilst the second came four minutes later after fine work from Paton and Payne allowed Bowey the freedom to run at goal and his lay off was turned home by wee "Eddie" from 6 yards. Earlier in the opening period the home keeper made a fine save from a Chris Carr drive whilst Stephen Payne headed a good chance over the top. However, Tommy English had to help one away from his own line in the early stages.

Queens started the second period looking to add to the score and again the home keeper came to the rescue first with a flying save from a Paton free kick and then a few minutes later with a point blank block to deny McLaughlin a hat-trick of six yard box strikes! However, on 55 minutes Queens Park pulled a goal back after a long ball forward found Tommy English wrong side of his opponent and the No.10 finished well. The closest we came to then making sure of the win was just after the hour when John O'Neill's curling shot on the turn clipped the top of the bar. The hosts should have had an equaliser on 77 minutes when young Gareth Campbell clearly handled in the penalty area. In fact he almost caught the ball so blatant was the offence! However the referee decided to play an advantage as the loose ball broke for a forward clean through on goal only for Richie Barnard to pull off a point blank block. The rest of the home team though were irate at the non-award of the penalty and it was hard not to agree with them to be honest. A real let-off.

A respectable opening win then without excelling all round. It was a very young Queens side that finished the match. Nice to see some old Queens faces about too though with Mike Jackson, Billy McLaren and Paul Kinnaird among the attendees and Paul Harvey playing centre midfield for Queens Park. The Queens team in full was as follows:-

R Barnard (D Martin 80); C Carr; T English; B McColligan (P Burns 45); E Paton; R Maxwell (G Campbell 60); S Lovell (S Robertson 66); S Bowey (J Baty 66); D McNiven (J O'Neill 45); B McLaughlin; S Payne (W Gibson 45)

As well as those getting playing time, Brian Reid, Gary Wood and Derek Lyle were all taking part in a training session whilst injured keeper Colin Scott was in attendance.

Ewan Lithgow
South win the battle of the Queens 6th July 2005
Queens beat Queens Park 2-1 tonight in the battle of the Queens played at Stepps. And it was the smallest player on the park, Brian McLaughlin, that did the damage with two goals in the first half. The 'Spiders' did pull one back in the second half but the Dumfries Queens held out for a victory.

Said assistant manager, Warren Pearson after the game, "It was a good workout and they had a lot of useful young players on show. They started well and had the best of the opening 20 minutes and we found their defence difficult to break down. However, we gradually got on top and Brian McLaughlin's experience saw him net two goals.

"In the second half they put a lot of players behind the ball to stop us scoring any more which was a bit frustrating, however I was quite happy at the final result.

"Richie Maxwell made his first team debut and was impressive in the hour that he was on; Chris Carr did a good job in defence while 'Bowser' and 'Archie' (Stuart Lovell) were solid in midfield".

Bill Goldie
Queens beat Queens 6th July 2005
In the closed doors friendly versus Queen's Park tonight at Stepps, the Doonhamers scored a 2-1 victory over the home side. Two goals from Brian McLaughlin in the first half were enough to see off the spiders even though they did score a consolation goal midway through the second half.
Memories of the Modern Era 6th July 2005
This new book is a 'must have' for any Queens fan, following in the footsteps of the original fifty year book published in 1969 and then the seventy-five year book in 1994, this new publication brings the history of Queen of the South right up to date. Written by club Press Officer Bill Goldie the new book enjoys the benefit of being the first book about Queens that has been published in full colour and includes a special autographed sheet for all the young fans.
The past ten years have contained some of the most important and successful seasons in the history of the club with a league championship and the winning of a national trophy. Consolidation of the club as a first division side has been achieved in recent years and this book details exactly how that was achieved.

The cover price of the book is £7.00 and it can be purchased from the office at Palmerston from Monday, 11th July and from the Club Shop from Saturday, 16th July (pre and post match at all home games). It will also be available from Monday, 18th July at the Tourist Information Centre on the Whitesands, Low's Newsagents in Castle Douglas, the Sport and Trophy Shop in Lockerbie, Johnson's Sports in Kirkcudbright and the Crown Inn at Sanquhar.
It can be purchased mail order £8.50 (inc. post and packaging) either by phoning Palmerston with your credit card details or alternatively by posting a cheque or postal order with your contact address to the club.

If you really can't wait then we have also set up an online payment system through Paypal that will allow you to pay for the book now. The price for this facility is from £9.00 depending on what country you live in and includes post and packing and covers the fees for Paypal. Click on the appropriate payment links below to pay now. If you are unsure what postage zone you are in then check the Royal Mail site on Airmail rates.

If you are in the UK click on this payment link: - £9.00

If you are in the European postage zone click on this payment link: - £9.88

If you are in the Zone 1 postage zone (USA/Canada) click on this payment link: - £11.33

If you are in the Zone 2 postage zone (Australia/NZ) click on this payment link: - £11.76
Former Queens man stars 6th July 2005
Congratulations to former Queens right back and Player of the Year in our Championship winning season Alan Gray who has been named in the Unibond League Dream Team, the side was picked by Hyde United manager Steve Waywell whose side just pipped Alan's team Workington Reds to the title. Alan will be playing for Workington in the Conference North next season.
The two Queens meet 5th July 2005
Queens will be without a few of their players for the friendly match away to Queens Park tomorrow night. Gary Wood is still on holiday while Jim Thomson is in Jamaica for a wedding. Lucky Jim!

Assistant manager, Warren Pearson, is unlikely to risk either Derek Lyle or Colin Scott who both underwent surgery in the close season while Brian Reid is suffering from a virus and is listed as 'doubtful'.

The game will kick off at 7.30 p.m. at St Aloysius playing fields, Stepps. It can be reached by turning off at junction 12 on the M8 motorway.

Bill Goldie
New strips available 3rd July 2005
The Club Shop at Palmerston will open specially on Friday evening between 6.30pm and 8.30pm to sell the new replica tops for 2005/06. Suppliers, Nike, have promised that the tops will be delivered to Queens on Friday although we believe that the initial delivery will be home strips only with a selection of sizes. They will be sold on a first come first served basis so get there early! All other outlets will have strips available on Monday 11th July, these are; The Tourist Information Office on the Whitesands, Low's Newsagents in Castle Douglas, Johnson's Sports in Kirkcudbright and The Sport and Trophy Centre in Lockerbie.
'Scotty' and Stuart gain their badges 3rd July 2005
Congratulations to Stuart Lovell and our manager, Iain Scott, who both gained their U.E.F.A. 'A' Advanced Grade badges following their assessment week at Murray Park a fortnight ago.

'Scotty' is still on holiday and not available for comment but Stuart said he was "absolutely delighted" that the pair of them were successful. He added, "It's a very tough course and only 8 out of 18 passed. Last year only 6 made it and the year previous only 5. So for both of us to win our badges is a real bonus".

Stuart says he's really looking forward to the new season starting and enthused, "All our players have come back very fit and raring to go. Every one of them was under the set weight they were given, even big Brian Reid, and that's great".

Bill Goldie
No change in Season Ticket prices 3rd July 2005
Despite comments on other websites that season ticket prices have increased, the chairman would like to stress that, "None of them have risen--not even by a penny. Last year they did but not this season".

Bill Goldie
Season review 2nd July 2005
It's season review time tonight and it's February that comes under the spotlight with a Scottish Cup tie that promised an upset. Click the link on the right hand side of the page.
Full squad for training 1st July 2005
Saturday and Monday will conclude Queens' pre-season training programme prior to the match away to Queens Park on Wednesday. Assistant manager, Warren Pearson, is expecting a full complement of players tomorrow at the Crichton. Said 'Wasa', "Brian Reid and Gary Wood are now back from holiday and should be joining us. But they'll have to work hard as they've a bit of 'catching up' to do on fitness". He also confirmed that only one of the three 'trialists' would now be involved. Added 'Wasa', It's the Canadian lad from Toronto, but to me he's more Scottish than Canadian. He's a utility player but currently operating as a right-sided midfielder and he has two training sessions left to prove his worth".

Bill Goldie
Season Tickets 1st July 2005
All season ticket holders are reminded that briefs will go on sale at the Palmerston office on Monday, 11th July. There will be no increase from last season--Adults £200, Senior Citizens and Juveniles (Under 16) £100. There will be ample tickets available for newcomers.

Bill Goldie
The Queens Park scenario 29th June 2005
Total confusion reigned today concerning our first pre-season friendly match against Queen Park a week tonight. Firstly, in the official SFA list of scheduled friendlies published in today's 'Daily Record' it stated that the match would take place at Palmerston when everyone knew it was an away fixture.

Then, to make matters worse, several Queens' fans who had logged on to the Queens Park website were astonished to discover that all three of their proposed friendlies would be played 'behind closed doors'.

This came as a complete 'shock' to all at Palmerston who were under the impression the game was an official one and open to spectators and the Q.O.S. Travel Club had a coach booked for the trip to Glasgow. Even manager, Iain Scott (on holiday in Cyprus) was 'shocked' when the news was broken to him and he phoned home to clarify the position. But unfortunately it's true!

The game will take place on Wednesday, 6th July as planned but at St. Aloysius playing fields at Stepps (just east of Glasgow). It was Queens Park boss Billy Stark who decided it was to be 'unofficial' and that it would be 'behind closed doors'.

Said Queens' Chairman, David Rae. "I knew nothing about this until this morning! Everyone at the club, myself, the management team and all the players thought it was to be an official pre-season match just like the other five games we have planned. It came as a shock and I must apologise to all Queen of the South fans, in particular the Travel Club, who had a bus already booked. It's extremely disappointing!"

Training tonight

Chris Carr was back in the thick of the action for tonight's training session at the Crichton. Richie Barnard was again missing as his girlfriend gave birth to a baby girl last night. Our congratulations to them both.

Bill Goldie
Fixture Cards Out Soon 29th June 2005
From Friday you will be able to pick up your Queen of the South fixture card from the usual outlets plus T B Watson's in English Street.
Training ground news 27th June 2005
After another exhausting training session at the Crichton on Saturday, manager, Iain Scott, jetted off for a well-earned two week holiday in sunny Cyprus yesterday. Apart from those still on holiday, and a couple unavailable, there was a good turnout of 20 players which included three 'trialists'. David McNiven was missing but the striker had put in two extra 'shifts' at Dumfries on Thursday and Friday.

In the time trials skipper, Steve Bowey, came in first, followed by a fit-looking Eric Paton who has shed a stone in weight in the six-week summer break while Stephen Payne also looked to be in very good shape. As 'Bowser' sprinted across the finishing line one onlooker was heard to remark, 'If that's him with a dodgy knee, I can't wait to see him fully fit'.

Tonight's training session was a bit more relaxed and the players appeared to be enjoying themselves on a warn summer's evening. Once again 20 were in attendance--David McNiven was back but missing was Richie Barnard whose wife was due to give birth at anytime now.

Bill Goldie
News round up 27th June 2005
Ex-Queens players appearing at the Crichton on Saturday were Mark Weir and Brian Caldwell who now play for Carluke Juniors. Their team easily beat the Crichton (South League) side 5-0.

Nice to see Bowser, Scotty, Warren and a couple of the younger players taking part in Lochmaben Gala Day on Saturday.

BLW
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