LATEST NEWS 2006/07
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

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Hope springs eternal 31st December 2006
Despite losing to Ross County on Saturday Ian McCall remains upbeat although bitterly disappointed with the result at Dingwall. Said the manager, "That was only the third time we've lost in our last 10 games and it's another we should have won, especially with them down to 10 men in the latter stages. The chances we missed were ridiculous and with new faces coming in during the January 'Window' they'll all be playing for their places now.

"But we must be realistic! Although we've slipped to the foot of the league again it's still tight at the bottom. Ross County and Airdrie United are the two clubs we must get above and we've still to play them both at Palmerston. In fact, we meet Airdrie at home in the last match of the season! There's 16 games left to play and nine of them are at Palmerston and we haven't lost at home since we went down to Partick Thistle in mid-October. And, as I've preached so many times before--we fear no side on our own ground.

"At this time last year we had only 9 points on the board and this season we have 17. When we lost down at Stranraer last New Year we trailed them by 12 points and managed to survive and I'm confident we can do so again. In recent weeks there were three games on the trot we should have won but ended up only drawing by conceding late goals. We picked up just three points when it should have been nine--to me it was six points dropped and what a difference that would have made.

"However, I can't fault my players for lack of effort over the past couple of weeks--they've given their all! My big regret is the number of chances that's been missed and with these new players coming I'd like to think that problem will be remedied."

Looking forward to the big game against Gretna on Tuesday the manager is well aware of the enormity of the task ahead of us and added, "They're 11 points clear at the top of the table and have lost only twice away from home in the league so far. They beat us 5-0 at Raydale in our last meeting and I'd be first to accept that we didn't play at all well that afternoon. The players and myself got a 'bit of stick' but what many didn't accept was just how well Gretna themselves played that day.

"Our home gates are well up on last season with almost 26,000 passing through the turnstiles and I'm sure the Gretna match will swell the club's coffers even more. Our fans have been tremendous all season--particularly those who travel to the away games. Over 100 made the long trek to Dingwall on Saturday and those faithful followers are to me the heart and soul of this club. On occasions, such as Broadwood, St Johnstone and Gretna, they let us know how they felt, and deservedly so, but that has been overshadowed 10 times over by the magnificent support and vociferous backing they have given at other times. I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year and remember our slogan, 'Yer hame team's yer ain team'!"

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Updates 31st December 2006
The man of the match over the two Doonhamers travel club buses to Ross County were 1st J Thomson, 2nd N Scally/W Gibson, 3rd C Hinchcliffe.

There are still seats left on the second Donhamers travel club bus to the Scottish cup tie with Dundee this Saturday leaving old Tesco Lochfield Road at 9:00am picking up at The Lochar Inn and Moffat. To book a seat please phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830 a.s.a.p.

Would anyone who still has Queens supporters action group raffle tickets please hand to Ross Corbett before 13:45 on Tuesday in the Palmerston Lounge bar as the draw will take place at 2:00PM. Please note tickets will be on sale right up to 2:00pm in the Lounge Bar.

Ross Corbett
Video clips 31st December 2006
Some fans have experienced a bit of difficulty downloading the video clips provided in the match reports. There are a couple of recent changes, the first is that the size of the clips has increased significantly as the take up of broadband has increased - it is now much easier to post them and for everyone to download them. The second is that sometimes the clips have been provided in a format that behaves slightly differently when downloaded and requires that you have the Quicktime video player loaded on your machine to play them (Apple MOV format).

So for the Jim Thomson overhead kick goal clip from the Livingston win last week we have provided a version in a Windows media player format (Microsoft AVI format). So you can either go to the Fixtures and Results page, access the archived match report and click on the second version of the clip or download it from the link below. Remember to right click and choose 'Save As' before trying to play the clip.

One for the history books - a Jim Thomson overhead kick - from David Gow on the terracing - Alternative video format (avi clip) if you cannot get the original format clip to play on your machine
Match reaction 30th December 2006
Last week Queens set themselves up for a Happy Christmas with a good 1-0 win at Livingston but the same can't be said this Saturday as they went down by the only goal of the game at Ross County. To make matters worse Airdrie United won 3-1 at Almondvale so Queens now start the new year in bottom place with league leaders Gretna the opposition at Palmerston on the second of January. Once more shot shy Queens scorned their chances in the opening twenty minutes and paid the penalty when Ross County scored with their first real chance of the game. Queens totally dominated the early stages but Graham Weir and John O'Neill both missed clear scoring chances and even at 1-0 down they had a couple of great opportunities to equalise in the second half. But again they went abegging so it will be a long sad journey home for the 106 faithful Doonhamers fans tonight.

Ian McCall was totally frustrated at the final whistle and with all the domination Queens had he couldn't understand how they were leaving Dingwall with nothing. Added the manager, "We again created some clear openings but the chances we are missing just now are absolutely ridiculous." Although nothing is fully certain in football he stated that two new players Stevie Tosh and Jamie McQuilken should be signed by next Saturday. It's just a pity that the duo won't be on board for Tuesday's local derby.

Bill Goldie
Team News 28th December 2006
Colin Scott and Paul Burns return to the Queens' squad for the long trip to Ross County. Both were unfit last week and missed the Livingston match. Although Graham Weir had to leave the field at Almondvale he suffered no more than a 'black eye' and is itching to play. Craig Hinchcliffe is available but his loan deal expires on the 31st of December and, unless an extension is agreed, it could be his last game for us.

Bill Goldie
They're all important says the manager 27th December 2006
Queens set off on the road to the Highlands on Friday to take on Ross County in another crucial encounter. However, they'll be going up there in a confident frame of mind, four games unbeaten and Jim Thomson's spectacular winner at Livi still fresh in their minds. Yet Ian McCall insists, "Yes, it's a crucial one but every match we play at the moment is important. There's no doubt that it's a big, big game for, if we win we go back up into 8th place again.

"We're doing well at the moment and, apart from that blip at Broadwood against Clyde we've only lost once on our last six outings and, going further back, we've only been beaten twice in our past nine matches. We'll be taking it one step at a time for, after Ross County we're at home to Gretna and I'd love to get a result in that one for our fans who have been immense all season.

"If we can perform as we did at Livingston on Saturday I'm not bothered who we play! On form we're as good as any team in our league. We changed it around a bit on Saturday and, apart from a great all-round team effort, there were some excellent individual performances as well. Again we created plenty of chances and what more can I say about Jimmy Thomson's overhead kick which brought our goal.

"We trained today and we'll be training again tomorrow. Festive season or not, there's no rest for footballers at this time of the year. We'll be leaving for Dingwall on Friday and, as usual, staying overnight in the Inverness area, and this also serves as a good bonding session".

The manager also stressed that there have been no movement as yet on the three targeted players, Steve Tosh, Jamie McQuilken and the Newcastle striker.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 26th December 2006
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was goalscoring defender Jim Thomson, second place went to Neil Scally with Eric Paton in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the new Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Match reaction 23rd December 2006
The 200+ Queens fans who made the trip to Almondvale today - many of them dressed as Santa - couldn't have wished for a better Christmas present from the old man himself. A 1-0 victory, 3 precious points, and our first away win of the season. Although it may only be for a few days we now move up to eighth spot in the table.

Queens dominated the first half with Eric Paton, Scott Robertson and Sean O'Connor all outstanding and even Andy Thomson looked sharp when he cam eon for Graham Weir who left the field with a head injury in the 24th minute. Weiro has a black eye but apart from that it's nothing too serious.

The goal was a spectacular effort from Captain Courageous Jim Thomson with a magnificent overhead kick six minutes from time.

Said manager Ian McCall, "It was a great overall performance with each and every player playing their part. We dominated the game, particularly in the first half and we got what we thoroughly deserved, three valuable points to take us off the bottom of the table. In our last three games we have conceded late goals to throw points away but this time it was out turn to score late on and what a super goal it was from none other than Jimmy Thomson. Again our 'keeper Craig Hinchcliffe didn't really have a shot to save. I'd love to get him on loan for another month but I think it's highly unlikely. Once again our fans were tremendous and I wish everyone of them, infact all Queens supporters a very happy Christmas. Three points today was the best Christmas present I could have wished for."

Added Jim Thomson, "I don't score many goals but that must rate as the most spectacular. Most of them have come from headers but this was an overhead kick that Ronaldinhio would have been proud of. It's our first away win of the season and we'll now head off for Ross County next Saturday with a little more confidence. It was also a great result for all those Queens fans there today. We appreciate your support - have a nice Christmas.

Said Chairman David Rae, "That's our first away win since we beat Hamilton back in March and it was great and I couldn't have asked for any more. Those last six minutes were a long time ticking by but we held on and moved two places up the moved two places up the table. Even their Chairman, Pierce Flynn, admitted we were the better side and everyone out there this afternoon was 'playing for the shirt'. All I want next is three points at Dingwall to make my festive season complete and may I wish all fans the compliments of the season and thank you for your support throughout the year."

Bill Goldie
Shop opening times for Christmas 22nd December 2006
The Club Shop at Palmerston will be open on Sunday for all those very last minute presents. The opening hours are from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Please note however that we will not be able to take credit card payments on Sunday.

John Paterson
Two more to go 22nd December 2006
Two more players will be leaving Queens shortly. Scott McKenzie will depart in January and Barry John Corr has been told that the club are looking for another keeper and he is free to leave.

As reported earlier, on-loan Barry Callaghan will be returning to Dundee United next month when his deal expires.

Bill Goldie
Team News 21st December 2006
Although now clear of suspension, Willie Gibson is doubtful for the visit to Livingston on Saturday with a calf strain. Back in the squad however is Warren Moon who missed out last week.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Updates 20th December 2006
There were two winners on last weeks Doonhamers travel club fixed odds winning £250 each were N Macleod (agent Iain Joiner Macleod) and John Taylor (agent Roy McWhirter)this weeks prize is £400.

There are still a few seats on the second bus to Livingston on Saturday leaving old Tesco Lochfield Road at 10:30am piocking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830.Remember any member wearing a Santa suit receives free travel.

Would all members please note that the Doonhamers travel club buses to Dundee for the Scottish cup match are leaving at 9:00am.To book a seat phone the above number.

Ross Corbett
Livi--here we come 20th December 2006
Queens head for Livingston on Saturday for the first of two very difficult away fixtures over the festive season. On the visit to Almondvale Ian McCall says,"If someone had said a couple of years ago that we'd be meeting Livingston this season in a league match most folk would have laughed as they were sitting proudly in third place in the Premier League at that time. It's going to be a hard one for they defeated Partick Thistle at Firhill on Saturday past, and that's never easy. However, we beat them 2-0 at Palmerston back in October and we were the better team that day, so we're travelling up there to give it our best shot".

With Andrew Barrowman back with Kilmarnock it leaves the way clear for Sean O'Connor to stake a claim for a first team place again. Added the manager, "Sean came on as a sub against Airdrie on Saturday and did well. But I had a talk with him and said I wanted to see him more aggressive and to do even more than he's doing, for our strikers must start scoring goals! In our last three outings our goals have come from a defender, a penalty kick and an own goal--so the front men have to start finding the net again. I think the world of Graham Weir, he'd 'run himself into the ground' for the team, but I still think he's capable of more as well".

Looking back at Saturday Ian claimed that it was only a bit of bad luck that cost them that heartbreaking late equaliser. He stressed, "The ball cannoned off Neil Scally's knee right into the path of Prunty who could hardly miss. But yet again we scorned chances to clinch the match--we hit the bar, we hit the post and other scoring opportunities 'went a begging'. The breaks just aren't going our way at present!"

Bill Goldie
Sadness for young Queens' fan 20th December 2006
Chairman, David Rae, has expressed his "sadness and heartfelt condolences" following the death in a car crash on Sunday of young Queens' supporter, Ian Brown. Said the Chairman, "On behalf of myself and the Board of Directors of Queen of the South F.C. I pass on my deepest sympathy to the parents and family of Ian and to his cousin, Benjamin Pitkeathy's relatives as well. I believe that Ian was an avid, life-long Queens' fan and a season ticket holder and was actually at Saturday's match against Airdrie. It was a tragedy for one so young".

Bill Goldie
New players 19th December 2006
Ian McCall plans to continue with his mini Christmas 'clear out' to enable him to bring in new faces in the January 'Window'. Said the manager, "John Henry left a few weeks ago and Gareth Campbell has been told he can go. Andrew Barrowman, who was on loan, returned to Kilmarnock at the weekend but we will miss his power and pace up front. Barry Callaghan will be going back to Dundee United during January and one or two more will also be leaving the club as well.

"However, the directors and myself are 'working round the clock' to bring in new players in the 'Window'. We're talking to Stevie Tosh, we're talking to Jamie McQuilken and we're also talking to Newcastle United about a striker. So, we have a busy time ahead".

Bill Goldie
Presentation to Ross 19th December 2006
Anthony Moffat, a Queens' fan residing in the Hamilton area, has been asked to present the £930 cheque (raised by the QOS Action Group) to the young Hamilton player, Ross McCabe, this coming Saturday. The presentation will take place at New Douglas Park at 11.45 am and also there, representing the club itself, will be Hamilton Accies secretary, Scott Struthers.

Bill Goldie
Reserves KO'd in 'Shoot Out' 19th December 2006
Queens were knocked out of the Scottish Reserve Cup by Cowdenbeath at Palmerston last night in a penalty 'shoot out'. It was a dreich game throughout and after 90 minutes and 30 minutes extra time it was still goal-less. However, in the 'shoot-out, the visitors won 5-4.

Bill Goldie
Ticket sales 19th December 2006
Ticket sales for the match with Gretna on the 2nd January are selling well but Queens fans are reminded that they are still on sale at weekdays between 10 am and 4 pm apart from Christmas Day and Boxing Day of course. On 27th and 28th December they will be available as per normal and on Friday 29th December from 10 am to 1 pm.

On Hogmanay, Sunday 31st December thay will be available from 2 to 4 pm and from 11 am to 2 pm on the day of the match. But please come early.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 18th December 2006
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was Craig Hinchcliffe, second place went to Eric Paton with Neil Scally in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the new Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Supporters Trust Quiz Night 18th December 2006
This Wednesday night (December 20th) the Supporters Trust is having a ‘Let’s Get Dougie New Shoes for Xmas’ Quiz night in the upstairs lounge at Palmerston 7:30pm. As the title suggests we are raising funds to get Dougie the Doonhamer some new shoes. So give up the xmas shopping for one night and come along and have some fun. It’s £2 per player entry and we promise the questions will not be too difficult!

David Linden
Reserves match 18th December 2006
Queens meet Cowdenbeath at Palmerston tonight in the Scottish Reserves Cup. Kick off is at 7.30pm.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 16th December 2006
With so much at stake this was never going to be a classic and that's how it turned out. Seven yellow cards, an own goal to give Queens the lead but an 88th minute equaliser by Airdrie United to leave home fans 'gutted' once again. One consolation was Gretna beating Ross County and it's not often the Queens faithful welcome a win for the Raydale men.

Ian McCall was forced to watch the game from the stand owing to a two match touchline ban for comments made to the referee at Firhill a fortnight ago, but he was 'gutted' when that last gasp equaliser went in. Said the manager, "That's 6 points we've thrown away in our last three games and it's sickening. I'm totally gutted and deflated losing a goal so late feels like a defeat.

"We were awful in the first half and allowed them far too much of the ball. They got a rollicking at half-time and it helped, we changed it round a bit as well for the second half and went at them 'all guns blazing', we showed more movement, more endeavour and a much better attitude but once again missed chances come back to haunt us. I thought Jim Thomson, Sean O'Connor and John O'Neill all had good opportunities to score, Paul Burns had a good run to force our opener - even though it was an own goal but after that they came back at us as we expected them to do. Losing that goal so late was so frustrating. The ball ricocheted into the path of Prunty and he finished well as all good strikers do. For the second week running our 'keeper didn't have a real save to make and we're still bottom of the table. But looking at the positives we're unbeaten at home in our last five games and we've closed the gap on Ross County who we meet in two weeks time. We're 6 points better off than we were this time last year and there's still half a season to go."

Airdrie United boss Kenny Black was a happier man than his counterpart and admitted, "It was a point gained and I'll take that as our away form hasn't been too hot this season. We notched a draw at home with a late equaliser earlier in the season and we did it again today. Queens fans must be sick of us! We all knew what Queens are like and we knew it would be a real battle with so much to play for. But we had the upper hand in the first half although they did hit the bar, they upped the tempo after the interval and we conceded a bad own goal but we showed a lot of character we fought to the end and Brian Prunty showed good composure to strike home that late counter."

Bill Goldie
Junior Blues News 15th December 2006
Over the next few days the second edition of ‘Blue & White’ will be dropping through hundreds of Junior Blues letterboxes. The Christmas edition sees Dougie the Doonhamer taking centre stage on the front cover. Inside there are several competitions, including Spot the Ball & Spot the Difference as well as an Xmas quiz and a ‘Design a Strip’ for younger JB’s. Created and Published on behalf of Queens by the Supporters Trust, Blue & White also contains Dougie’s Mailbox, a profile on ‘Jonjo’ O’Neil and a Gretna match preview. We would like to thank those supporters who have contributed financially to cover the printing costs, and Eric Moffat for organising despatch to all the JB’s.

A Merry Xmas to all Junior Blues from QOS FC and the Queens Supporters Trust.

David Linden
Baty on loan 15th December 2006
Young James Baty has been farmed out on loan to South of Scotland side, Threave Rovers. Said manager. Ian McCall, "It's a tough league and will give James valuable experience".

Bill Goldie
Late team news 15th December 2006
Both Warren Moon and Mark Whorlow missed training last night and may be out of the squad for tomorrow's match against Airdrie United.

Bill Goldie
Talks with Tosh 15th December 2006
Steve Tosh was at Palmerston on Wednesday for talks with the manager and chairman. Said Ian McCall this morning, "We had a good chat with Stevie and he told us how much he enjoys staying in Dumfries and how happy his children are at the local school. So that's in our favour! However, I believe six other clubs are interested in him--some from the Premier League--so we may not be able to match them financially. Nevertheless, we've put an offer on the table, so we'll just have to wait and see what transpires.

"I've worked with Stevie before and he's a class player and it would be great to get him on board. He certainly knows how to score goals and that's what we're needing at the moment. I'm having another meeting with him later today and I'm also going to be talking to Jamie McQuilken, one of his team-mates at Gretna, who is now available as well. Jamie's one of the best left-backs in football and that's another position we need cover for".

Bill Goldie
Team News for Saturday 14th December 2006
Although no notification had yet come through from the SFA, it is fully expected that Willie Gibson will be suspended following his 'red card' against Hamilton last week. Stephen Swift returns to the squad after having to pull out last Friday with flu-like symptoms. It will be Andrew Barrowman's last appearance in a Queens' shirt as the on-loan striker will re-join Kilmarnock next week. Apart from Andy Aitken everyone else is fit and 'available for selection'.

Despite all the rain Palmerston is looking good and is playable for Saturday.

Bill Goldie
Fond farewells 13th December 2006
Saturday will probably be the last chance for Queens' fans to see our 'on-loan' players in action at Palmerston. Craig Hinchcliffe, Andrew Barrowman, Barry Callaghan and Des McCaffrey have all played their part in recent months to keep Queens in contention at the foot of the table but all four are now due to return to their own clubs before the January 'Window' opens.

For striker, Andrew Barrowman, this weekend's game against Airdrie United will be his last appearance as his extra month's extension ends on December 20th. Said Ian McCall, "Andy has been a tower of strength up front with his pace and power. He linked well with 'Weiro' and he'll be missed. My only regret is that he hasn't managed to find the net yet, although he has had the chances. But I'd love for him to score on Saturday, preferably the winner, and that would see him leave in a blaze of glory. He says he's really enjoyed his time here and my personal thanks to Jim (Jeffries) and Billy (Brown) at Kilmarnock for their co-operation".

Craig Hinchcliffe has at least two more games left and the manager added, "He was voted 'Man of the Match' on Saturday and deserved it. However, he had no real outstanding saves to make but he oozed confidence, his positioning was excellent and he had good dialogue with his fellow defenders. I'd move heaven and earth to get him to stay but I think it's highly unlikely".

Injury has kept Des McCaffrey out for the past couple of games but he has filled in well on the left side of defence which was a problem position for us with Andy Aitken unavailable. Barry Callaghan has impressed but has not had enough time to prove himself as most of his appearances have been from the subs bench. Good luck to them all in the future.

Bill Goldie
Livvie offer 12th December 2006
Livingston FC have been in touch to let us know about a 'Festive Fans Special' they are making available for the forthcoming match at Almondvale. The West Lothian club are offering a special price to Queen's fans who book a table for four in their hospitality suite, the deal includes; Sparkling wine on arrival, 3 course lunch with wine, executive seating on the half way line, half time tea/coffee and snacks, pre/post pay bar, matchday programme, team sheet and car parking.

To take advantage of the deal contact Charles Burnett on 01506 403343 or email the Livingston FC sales team on charles.burnett@livingstonfc.co.uk. Make sure that you let them know that you are Queens fans so that you are offered the special prices (Adults £42.50 per head, Children £17 per head).
Travel Club Updates 12th December 2006
The winner of last weeks Doonhamers travel club fixed odds was E West whose agent was George McGarrie the prize was £950. This weeks fixed odds prize starts of at £500 anyone who would like to become an agent please see Eck Patterson.

There are still seats on the second Doonhamers travel club bus to Livingston next Saturday 23rd December leaving old Tesco Lochfield Road at 10:30am picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat please phone the club hotline on 07834687830.

Well done to all involved in the Queens supporters action group for a very successful weekend both laying and lifting the covers off the pitch at Palmerston and organising the collection for young Hamilton player Ross McCabe which raised £930. The action group are still looking for any Queens fans who stay in or around Hamilton who would be available to present the cheque to Hamilton if you can help please e-mail ross.corbett@tesco.net or phone 01387 267376. If you wish to get involved in the action group please contact Ross on either of the above please remember it's open to everyone.

Ross Corbett
A real big one 12th December 2006
Saturday's game against Airdrie United might well turn out to be one of the most vital matches of the season for Queens. And manager, players and fans alike are fully aware of the importance of it.

Said Ian McCall this morning, "There's no doubt it's a big, big game--a massive game in fact--and that's both for ourselves and Airdrie United. We have to close the gap on them and Ross County and also try and drag other clubs as well into the relegation battle.

"This is without doubt the most competitive league in the SFL and you just have to study statistics for proof. 46 draws already this season and we haven't yet reached the half-way stage. Take Saturday for instance! Airdrie, who were bottom, defeated leaders Gretna 4-2, and that's twice they've beaten them this season. I think I'm right in saying that no other side has so far managed to do so. Everything is so unpredictable!

"When we met Airdrie up at New Broomfield back in August we drew 2-2, but had it not been for a disputed last minute equaliser we would have won. We've also conceded late goals in our last two matches and that's cost us four valuable points--and what a difference that would have made. However, our home record over the past six weeks has been good, we're unbeaten and have collect 10 points into the bargain, so we're not scared of any team when we get them at Palmerston".

Reflecting back to Saturday the manager stressed once more that Willie Gibson's 'red card' totally changed the entire game and added, "I still don't think that it was a sending off offence but he was warned at the interval to stay out of trouble. Willie's been disciplined, but to be fair to the lad his temperament has improved greatly in recent weeks and I did feel a bit sorry for him the way it happened.

"As for the game itself, I don't blame the defence in any way, they did really well under tremendous pressure, but we missed two or three really good chances in the first half which would have put the issue far beyond their reach".

Bill Goldie
Thanks from Hamilton 11th December 2006
Regarding the magnificent £930 raised by the QOS Action Group for the young Hamilton player Ross McCabe on Saturday, Accies secretary, Scott Struthers contacted us this afternoon to offer his sincere thanks. Said Scott, "I've just heard what the amount was and it's an incredible and most generous gesture by Queen of the South fans and very much appreciated by Ross himself. I was speaking to him and he was absolutely staggered by the what was raised and assured me that he'd be in touch with those concerned at Palmerston to thank them personally.

"I myself have always held Queens' fans in high esteem and although vociferous in support of their team, we've never had any trouble whatsoever from them at New Douglas Park. I still recall last season when over 700 of them turned up for the Scottish Cup replay on a freezing cold winter's night--and that's what I call 'support'. They are welcome at Hamilton anytime, even moreso now after such a thoughtful deed".

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 11th December 2006
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was Craig Hinchcliffe, second place went to defender Murray Henderson with scorer John O'Neill in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the new Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Well done 9th December 2006
Queen of the South fans are well known for their generosity and they excelled themselves this afternoon by contributing the superb sum of £930 in a collection for Ross McCabe the young Hamilton Accies player whose career was so tragically cut short a few weeks ago following an horrific injury. The collection was arranged by the Queen of the South Action Group.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 9th December 2006
Ten man Queens fought bravely to earn a point against Hamilton at Palmerston this afternoon but it was like the Alamo out there in the second half as the visitors pinned Queens back in their own half and although they did net late in the game we held out for a vital point. A John O'Neill penalty had given Queens the lead in the ninth minute but a red card for Willie Gibson early in the second half changed the course of the game and at the end the home fans were happy to settle for a share of the points. With Ross County losing today we closed the gap on the highlanders but Gretna did us no favours by losing at Airdrie United - a result which sees us slip back to the bottom of the table. However with Airdrie United the visitors to Palmerston next Saturday that can be remedied.

Hamilton boss Billy Reid conceded it was a fair result and added, "We didn't play at all in the first half we had all the pressure after the sending off but Queens 'shut up shop' and it was difficult to break them down. They deserved a point."

Ian McCall admitted that the red card was the turning point of the game and added, "I told Willie at half-time that he was sitting on a yellow card and to be careful and don't give the referee any opportunity to penalise him. But it was a melee on the ground and any one of four could have got that yellow. It was just our bad luck it had to be Willie. I thought the decision was a harsh one. However it was again two points dropped and that's disappointing but to be fair we could have put the game beyond them if we'd taken the chances we created in the first half. We had two or three really good ones. I don't know what formation Billy Reid played in the second half - I think it was like 1-5-4 but they certainly came at us and deserved a draw. But I was proud of my players, it was a magnificent performance given that the odds were stacked against us in those last forty minutes."

Asked about the cup draw away to Dundee, Ian said, "It could have been a lot better". Added chairman David Rae, "It's not the most attractive of cup ties it's away from home which we didn't particularly want and there will be very little cash injection for the club. Nevertheless we beat them 2-0 just three weeks ago and if we can go up to Dens Park and even draw I think we could beat them again in a replay at Palmerston".

Bill Goldie
School visits 8th December 2006
The schools visitation programme which saw Jim Thomson (assisted by Scott Robertson and Paul Burns) doing the rounds of local primaries to talk on healthy living and healthy eating ended on Thursday afternoon with eight schools visited in the space of the last 18 days. It was all part of the Dumfries and Galloway Council's 'Active Schools Programme' and one of the main co-ordinators, Andy McLean, enthused, "It was only a pilot scheme to test what kind of reaction we received, but it has turned out to be a huge success and out of 71 schools circulated for the main project which will run from January to June next year, 68 posted positive. Myself and my fellow co-ordinators are all delighted with the response".

Main sponsor of the event was the Cumberland Building Society.

Bill Goldie
Shop opening times for Christmas 8th December 2006
The Club Shop at Palmerston will be open every Sunday in the run up to Christmas. The opening hours are from 2.00pm to 4.00pm and includes Christmas Eve.

Please note however that we will not be able to take credit card payments on these days.

John Paterson
Ground Share 8th December 2006
Interesting comments on the QOS Mad unofficial site about merits/non merits of sharing Palmerston with Gretna. As I get to see the match programme in advance let me quote our chairman David Rae from it:- "It is a definite non-starter and there is no way that it will ever happen - that is absolutely certain!"

BLW (QOS Prog.)
Action Group update 7th December 2006
This Saturday before the Hamilton match the Queens supporters action group in conjunction with Queen of the South FC will be holding a collection in aid of Hamilton player Ross McCabe whose career was ended earlier this year at such a young age.

Ross Corbett
Team News 7th December 2006
For possibly the first time this season Ian McCall can afford he luxury of naming more-or-less an 'unchanged squad' for the visit of Hamilton on Saturday. And what a change that is from three months ago! Back in September the Treated Room at the club was like 'Emergency Ward Ten' with so many casualties, and with suspensions biting in as well, we were scratching to get a team on the park.

But now, with only Andy Aitken and Des McCaffrey on the injured list, the manager is 'spoiled for choice' and his problem is who to leave out. However, he admits, "I'd much rather have this way than back then, but I must point out that the two who are missing are key-men and both left-sided defenders--and that's not so good. Naturally, all the others want to play but I can only have 11 on the pitch and 5 on the bench so they'll be some disappointed. Paul Burns and Murray Henderson are now available for selection again but I'll be fielding what I consider to be our strongest eleven".

Bill Goldie
Scottish Cup draw 7th December 2006
The draw for the third round of the Scottish Cup will take place shortly after Saturday's matches are over. All the 'big guns' will be in it, so here's hoping Queens get a good draw.

Bill Goldie
School visitations 6th December 2006
The Dumfries and Galloway Council's 'Active Schools Programme' kicked-off recently and Jim Thomson was on hand at New Abbey school to coach the youngsters there. Our picture shows Jim with the youngsters who were all eager to learn from the club captain.


Jim coaches the eager youngsters

Photo - Angus McDougal
Crucial matches ahead 6th December 2006
This Saturday heralds the start of a crucial eight days for Queens with two vital home matches coming up. This will take us through to the halfway mark in the season and Ian McCall will no doubt be looking for a continuation of the good home form of recent weeks which has seen us pick up nine precious points, net six goals and keep three 'clean sheets' to turn Palmerston into a 'fortress' once again.

However, the manager warns, "Although we've done exceptionally well in those last three fixtures we've no divine right to win every home match and we're not expecting to, for in our division there are few easy games and we must fight hard for every single point. However, having said that, we fear no side at Palmerston!

"We face Hamilton on Saturday and they're sitting third in the table and Billy Reid will be happy with that. We had the chance to beat them up there earlier in the season but only managed a draw, but we have home advantage this time around. Partick were in second spot last week but we went to Firhill and 'played them off the park' in the first half. I was disappointed to lose such a late goal after having played so well, but if the truth be told we should have had the points all tied up in that first 45 minutes. We've only ourselves to blame. But that's all in the past so we must now look forward and concentrate on the matches to come.

"Some fans are saying that Saturday was the best we've played all season. We performed well, but I honestly felt it was no better than in those last three home matches when we beat Livi, Ross County and Dundee. We've been taking a 'lot of stick' those past six weeks but fans always seem to remember the three heavy defeats rather than these three valuable victories at Palmerston which I've just mentioned.

"I was sorry last night's reserve fixture against Gretna had to be called off as I had hoped to field Paul Burns, Murray Henderson and a few others who are badly needing a competitive match. Nevertheless, I'll be down tomorrow night and they'll all get a really good workout and again on Friday morning".

Bill Goldie
Reserve game off 5th December 2006
The reserve league west match scheduled for this evening at Palmerston Park has been postponed.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 4th December 2006
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was Neil Scally, second place went to goalscorer Jim Thomson with Andrew Barrowman in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the new Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
Travel Club Updates 4th December 2006
The winner of the Doonhamers travel club man of the match over the two buses at Partick Thistle on Saturday 1st J Thomson 2nd N Scally 3rd A Barrowman.

There were no winners last week in the travel club fixed odds this weeks prize is £950 anyone who would like to become an agent please see Eck Patterson or any other travel club committee member.

Names are now being taken for the Doonhamers travel club buses to Livingston on 23rd December leaving at 10:30am from old Tesco Lochfield Road picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat phone the hotline on 07834687830.

Ross Corbett
News in brief 4th December 2006
The Queens' travelling support at Firhill on Saturday was 285. Not bad considering the weather and our previous result. And, once again, the manager and many of the players remarked on the noise the Queens' fans made and the encouragement they gave throughout the entire match.

On the coach home from Partick Thistle there was great discussion as to when Jim Thomson last scored. Jim himself couldn't remember but it was on 26th April, 2003 when he netted in a 2-2 draw at Broadwood. J.T. actually scored thrice that season--in October 2002, again at Clyde, he scored but we lost 2-1, but in March 2003 he snatched the winner in a 1-0 victory up at Ayr. Thanks to one of our club 'anoraks', Gordon Harper, for the info.

Bill Goldie
Craig's confident 4th December 2006
New recruit, Craig Hinchcliffe, says he's delighted to be joining Queens and after making his debut at Firhill is confident that the team can pull away from the relegation zone if they continue to play the way they did on Saturday. Added the keeper, "All footballers like to be playing regularly every week and that wasn't happening at Love Street. It's also important to be playing at as high as level as possible and the First Division is a fantastic league and extremely competitive. And I know that from personal experience! I heard a 'whisper' a few weeks ago that Queen of the South were interested in me, but I'm glad that Gus McPherson and Ian McCall got it all sorted out--even though it's only for a month.

"I'm no stranger to Palmerston as I've played there on numerous occasions with both St Mirren and Arbroath. It's a nice park and has a good atmosphere and the fans behind the goal in the covered enclosure certainly let you know what they think of you. I also know quite a lot of the Queens' players very well. I played alongside John O'Neill at Love Street and with big Jim Thomson at Arbroath and both Eric Paton and Jim Lauchlan are good friends. So, no way will I be 'home-sick'.

"It was a real bonus to get a start at Firhill on Saturday and I'm only sorry I didn't quite manage a 'clean sheet', but I don't think many keepers would have saved Simon Donnelly's free-kick--it was a real cracker. But I'm looking forward to my home debut against Hamilton this Saturday, if I'm selected of course, for I know that Colin Scott is an excellent keeper and he'll be after his place back again when fully fit".

Bill Goldie
Firhill aftermath 3rd December 2006
In the aftermath of yesterday's Thistle match, fans and officials alike were amazed that Queens had so much pressure yet couldn't manage that first elusive away win. We dominated the first half and were encamped in the Thistle half for the opening 30 minutes. It was 12 minutes before our new keeper, Craig Hinchcliffe, actually had his first touch of the ball and we missed three gilt-edged chances to score.

Even Thistle Chairman, Allan Cowan, admitted, "Queens should have had the game won in the first half. You played us off the park and should have been about three up. You were also the better team when we met at Palmerston although we won, and I find it hard to believe that you're sitting second bottom of the table". And in his post-match press conference manager Dick Campbell added, "We were very lucky to scrape a draw as Queen of the South deserved to win. By getting a point Christmas has come early for us".

Queens' Chairman, David Rae, praised his team's performance and said, "We were all over them in the first half but just couldn't score. What we're lacking is an out-and-out finisher who can stick the ball in the net. But it's the best we've played away from home this season, a massive improvement on last week, and I can't fault the lads for lack of effort".

Bill Goldie
Free-kick controversy 3rd December 2006
Although it was a tremendous strike by Simon Donnelly Thistle's equaliser should never have happened, and why the referee awarded that free-kick was a mystery. Ian McCall did have a confrontation with the official at the final whistle but was naturally reluctant to say too much. "I think I've said enough already" he admitted. "I just can't see how it was ever a foul". And as the supposed culprit, Stephen Swift, stated on the 'Website' last night, "We jumped for the ball together and he fell to the ground but I didn't foul him".

Queens' fans were also 'up in arms' at the decision. Travel Club Chairman, Ross Corbett, insisted, "Admittedly, we were all at the other end of the ground but it certainly didn't look like a free-kick to me. It was a very 'soft one' and none of the fans on the Travel Club buses thought it was a foul. But, although we were denied the win it was still a great team performance and definitely our best away display of the season by a mile. We were unluckly not to take all three points".

Added our Programme Editor, Bruce Wright, "I felt it was a very dubious free-kick decision and from where I was seated I didn't spot any infringement. However, apart from that I thought the referee had a good game and it's the best I've seen Queens play, home or away, this season".

Bill Goldie
Gretna at Palmerston 3rd December 2006
Weather permitting, Queens will play Gretna at Palmerston in the Reserve League on Tuesday night. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm, admission is £1 but please check the match is on before leaving home. The last time we met in October Queens won, 4-1.

Bill Goldie
Match Reaction 2nd December 2006
Queens shared the points with Partick Thistle this afternoon in a hard fought battle but it was more two points dropped than one point gained for we totally dominated the first half and squandered three great goal scoring chances.

Said manager Ian McCall afterwards, "I'm very disappointed for we should have had it all sewn up in the first half, however I was proud of our performance. Our 'keeper never had a save to make in the whole game and he had no chance whatsoever with their goal. It was never a free kick but I'd better not say too much on that, yet I must say it was a top class finish by Simon Donnelly. We had no failures, everyone played well and I think Scott Robertson's going to turn out to be a good player."

Asked why he changed the system for the team today the manager was honest enough to admit, "Because the chairman told me to."

Goal hero Jim Thomson agreed that scoring goals is not exactly his strong point but stressed, "I think it's about three years since I last found the net but I could have had two today but we should have picked up all three points as we were well on top but missed far too many good chances. It was good to have Craig Hinchcliffe in goal. I played in front of him at Arbroath and he's a great 'keeper."

Stephen Swift didn't feel the crucial free kick was warranted. Said the defender, "We both jumped for the ball together and collided but it cost us dearly."

Bill Goldie
REMINDER 1st December 2006
All Queens' fans are reminded that tickets for the Queens v Gretna match at Palmerston on Tuesday, 2nd January will go on sale at the Palmerston Office this Tuesday, 5th December from 10 am to 4 pm and every other weekday at the same times until stocks are exhausted. They will also be on sale prior to the forthcoming home games against Hamilton and Airdrie from 11 am to 2 pm and for a short spell after each game.

Season ticket holders (including Junior Blues) need only hand over their vouchers as normal and occupy their reserved seat. Orders will be accepted by post until 15th December and by telephone, Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 4pm.

Bill Goldie
Hinchcliffe joins Queens 1st December 2006
Queens today acquired the services of St Mirren's keeper, Craig Hinchcliffe, on a month's loan. Now 34, Craig was at Elgin City before moving on to Arbroath where he made 188 first team appearances for the Gayfield side. Signed for St Mirren in June 2003 and that same season established a club record of 22 'shut outs'.

Said manager, Ian McCall, "I'm really pleased to get Craig on board even though it's only on loan. I've been looking for cover in that department for a while now and he has the experience that's required. He'll be in the squad tomorrow and will be with us until December 31st. We all know that Colin Scott has been carrying an injury those past few weeks although he's done extremely well, but it's unfair to keep playing him. Depending on how he feels he might play tomorrow but with Craig standing by it will give 'Scooter' time to recuperate if need be".

Bill Goldie

Hinchcliffe in action at Palmerston
Shop opening times for Christmas 1st December 2006
The Club Shop at Palmerston will be open every Sunday in the run up to Christmas. The opening hours are from 2.00pm to 4.00pm and includes Christmas Eve.

Please note however that we will not be able to take credit card payments on these days.

John Paterson
Andy Aitken 1st December 2006
Good news for Andy Aitken! He has now been told by the doctor that he can resume light training again--but just straight running, no twists and turns. Andy, who suffered severe cruciate damage in Ireland during a pre-season friendly was so delighted that he was out running in all that rain last night.

Bill Goldie
Team News 30th November 2006
Neil Scally, who returns after a one match suspension, is added to the Queens' squad to meet Partick Thistle at Firhill on Saturday, but on-loan Hibs man, Des McCaffrey will be missing with a knee injury. Said manager, Ian McCall, "Des has been having a bit of trouble with his knee for a few weeks now, but it's gradually got worse. I'm 'resting' him on Saturday and I reckon he could be out for a couple of weeks. It's disappointing with Andy Aitken still about two months away from playing and it leaves us short on left-sided defenders".

Willie Gibson meanwhile is a 'man on a mission' and will be out to further impress Kilmarnock manager, Jim Jeffries. Said Willie, "He's been great and very helpful and he's told me I can come up and join the Killie lads for training anytime--with our own manager's permission of course".

Bill Goldie
Firhill bound 29th November 2006
Queens head for Firhill this Saturday hoping to get back on the victory trail again following their disappointing display at Clyde. Speaking to the 'Website' this afternoon Ian McCall stated, "Like ourselves, Partick Thistle are coming off the back of a 4-0 defeat so they'll be hurting as much as we are. They'll be doing their utmost to make amends to their fans and it's going to be hard, but we must do our best to bounce back once again and get a result. Firhill is right on my doorstep--only half a mile away--so naturally I'd like to do well. They beat us 2-0 at Palmerston earlier in the season but we missed so many clear-cut chances that afternoon and should have won at least 4-2".

Looking back to Saturday's woeful display at Broadwood the manager added, "We lost some dreadful goals and most of them came from daft mistakes. Three of them were deflections but it was the two just before the interval that 'killed' us. They had the gale in their backs in the first half but if we'd held them to 0-0 at half time anything could have happened.

"It's maybe too much to expect for our away performances to be as good as out last three home games, but we're still capable of playing a lot better on our travels than we have been. We lost heavily against both St Johnstone and Gretna but I rate them the top two teams in the league. But Clyde are a different status and we should have done a lot better against them than we did.

"I thought we'd 'turned the corner' after the Dundee game but it was not to be. However, if someone had offered me nine points from our last five matches a few weeks ago, I would have grabbed them. We're still above Airdrie and not too far behind Ross County and with two home games coming up after Saturday there's no panic in the camp".

Bill Goldie
From the Chairman 29th November 2006
Following reports and a statement from a Gretna spokesman in the national press this morning, Queens chairman David Rae explained that, "There have been no discussions between Queen of the South FC and Gretna FC regarding ground sharing at Palmerston Park."

Bill Goldie
Share Register 27th November 2006
In preparation for the sending out of the Annual Accounts and AGM Notices would any shareholder to have moved home in the last 12 months and not already informed the club of their new address please do so now. This may be done either using the form available on this site, (click here), or by contacting the club office directly, either by mail or telephone.

Ewan Lithgow
Travel Club Updates 27th November 2006
The man of the match over the Doonhamers travel club two buses to Clyde on Saturday were 1st W Gibson 2nd C Scott 3rd S Swift.

The Doonhamers travel club and Queens supporters action group raised a good amount of money on Saturday for the D+G Standards toys for xmas appeal thanks to the travel club donating profits from the scratch cards on the buses and the action group donating a signed Queens ball which is up for auction at the moment the highest bid is £50. To place a bid or for more information on the event please e-mail ross.corbett@tesco.net the auction closes next Sunday 3rd December at 11:00am. The travel club are also donating any profits from the scratch cards on our buses to Partick Thistle next Saturday.

There are still a few seats left on the second Doonhamers travel club bus to Partick Thistle next Saturday 2nd December buses are leaving at 11:00am from the old Tesco Lochfield Road picking up at The Lochar Inn and Moffat.To book a seat please phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830.

The committee of the Doonhamers travel club would like to thank the Smiddy Inn for their excellent hospitality shown to all our members before the Clyde game on Saturday.We look forward to our next visit.

Ross Corbett
Man of the match 27th November 2006
Winner of the man of the match voting this weekend was goalkeeper Colin Scott, second place went to Willie Gibson with Graham Weir in third.

The full scores have been added to the match report and the new Player of the Season league table has been updated along with the scoring spreadsheet. Thanks for voting.
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