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

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Match action 30th September 2006
See the equalising goal today on the Latest Report link thanks to David Gow.
Match reaction 30th September 2006
A point won or two points dropped? take it whatever way you like! A draw at New Douglas Park is never to be scoffed at but considering the homesters played the last half hour with only ten men the visiting support of 297 were perhaps looking for more than just the 1-1 score line. But it was a nerve racking match packed with action and a big improvement on last Saturday's diabolical display. It's not often that Queens fans are rooting for a Gretna victory but on this occasion they would be sorry to see Airdrie United pick up maximum points at Raydale which now leaves us two points adrift at the bottom.

Said Ian McCall afterwards, "I was proud of my players this afternoon and after last week's performance they certainly 'won their spurs back'. They came in for a great deal of criticism last week and although we didn't win today they played their hearts out for Queen of the South and Dumfries. And the fans were great as well! I can't fault the players and the only thing we didn't get was that first elusive league win, we out played Hamilton for long spells - we hit the bar, hit the post and another effort actually hit the goal line and bounced over the bar. Even their manager Billy Reid admitted they 'got out of jail'. We've only played eight games and although we're two points adrift there's a long, long way to go. Three of our next four games are at Palmerston and I fully realise that we must put points on the board in these games. However I'm still confident that there will be three or four teams in a pack at the bottom and I'm looking for Queen of the South to be top of that pack. We'll battle all the way for I'm here for the 'long haul', I've no intention of 'jumping ship'.

Bill Goldie
Team News 28th September 2006
Eric Paton visited hospital on Tuesday for an examination to try and solve the problem he's having with his stomach, but they haven't come up with a solution yet. Eric will again miss out on Saturday and so too will Murray Henderson. He joins the injury list with ligament damage to his ankle following that rash tackle in the Clyde game and Murray could well be out for anything from two to four weeks. Young Lewis Sloan is also injured and just when we thought that Stephen Swift would be back he broke down again in the Reserve match against Gretna on Monday night and this time it's his other thigh that's causing the bother. It appears that we can't even buy a 'bit of luck' at present.

However, Jim Thomson and Willie Gibson came through the Reserve fixture unscathed and will be in the squad, while Warren Moon and Michael Mullen both played well and they too are available for selection.

Bill Goldie
Hamilton bound 28th September 2006
Queens head for Hamilton on Saturday with nothing less than a victory in mind and three points which could well lift them off the bottom of the table. Speaking to the 'Website' from Prague this morning Ian McCall admitted, "They'll be some changes following last Saturday's dreadful performance but we're still hard hit by injuries so they may be limited. I've already 'opened my heart' to the fans in a personal letter on the club's Official Website and I'm pleased that the vast majority understood the points I made. But regardless of those facts we all realise that the match at Hamilton is a big, big game for us and we must display a much better appetite than last week and be 'revved up for the battle in hand'.

"Bear in mind the fact that Airdrie are down at Gretna so it gives us a great opportunity to open up a gap between them and us if we could snatch three points at Hamilton.The playing surface up there is not my favourite one, but we did win 2-0 on our last visit there and I'd gladly take a repeat of that".

Bill Goldie
Brownies visit 28th September 2006

Sean O'Connor met the Maxwelltown Brownies and gave them a tour of Palmerston last week, the girls all thoroughly enjoyed the tour from Sean and were back again on Saturday to take in the match versus Clyde.
Man of the Match 25th September 2006
And yes there was one this week! Your voting left Neil Scally at the top of the pile in the player rating votings with Barry John Corr second and Jim Lauchlan 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.
Gretna triumph 25th September 2006
In an exciting tussle at Raydale Park tonight Gretna emerged triumphant with a narrow 2-1 victory in the Reserve League West. Queens fielded a reasonably strong side and with Ian McCall in attendance put on a good performance with. Queens lined up with Colin Scott in goals, a back three of Stephen Swift, Jim Thomson and Dessie McCaffrey, wing backs Barry Callaghan on the right and Willie Gibson on the left with a midfield featuring John Henry, Mark Whorlow and Warren Moon. The strike force consisted of Sean O'Connor and Michael Mullen with Mullen the stand-out for Queens causing the Gretna defence no end of trouble.

Gretna were first on the scoresheet catching Queens cold in only seven minutes and from our achilies heel - a poorly defended corner, however Willie Gibson levelled the scores after twenty two minutes with a cross that drifted into the far corner giving the Gretna 'keeper no chance. The winning goal came in the first minute of the second half when a cross from the right was met by a flying header that gave Colin Scott little chance.

The game was played in good spirits with Swift and Gibson booked for expressing themselves to the referee and Jim Thomson booked following a challenge for a 50/50 ball with young Gretna starlet Fraser MacLean - neither player shirking the challenge but MacLean coming off the worse as he was taken by ambulance to hospital, hopefully nothing too serious.
A message to the fans 25th September 2006
(written personally by the manager himself)

I feel I have to apologise on behalf of the players, and particularly myself, regarding Saturday's performance. I actually thought we were the better team for the first quarter of the game but after Clyde scored we capitulated and the second half performance was the worst in my time at Palmerston. It lacked passion and guts and that is one thing my teams have never wanted for. Defeats, although never easy to take, are part and parcel of football but the way we were beaten on Saturday was unacceptable and I accept that, as I was in charge, the buck stops with me.

Criticism is all part of football at every level but I believe, and I have spoken out recently on it, that throughout Scottish football there are minority groups of supporters of every club whose level of abuse and criticism is unacceptable. But any abuse given to me and the players on Saturday was deserved, and will be 'taken on the chin'.

I always knew that this season would be hugely difficult given that Stranraer and Brechin were replaced by Partick Thistle and Gretna. It is the most competitive First Division for many years and in fact, from a purely personal point of view, the 'cute' career decision after our achievements last season was to leave and there were a couple of opportunities. But I am genuinely proud of where I come from and proud of the fact I manage 'my' team and wanted to stay. This club, as has been said since I was seven years of age, has big potential but it is how you realise it that is key.

I ask you to stick with it and take these points on board:

1, For the first seven weeks of the season we have been without (at certain times), Andy Aitken, Eric Paton, Murray Henderson, Jim Thomson, Graham Weir, Sean O'Connor, Willie Gibson, Stephen Swift, Neil Scally and Andy Thomson. And our current list is: Andy Aitken, Eric Paton, Murray Henderson, Graham Weir and Lewis Sloan. Jim Thomson and Stephen Swift, if they come through tonight's game, we hope will be available for Saturday.

2, I may not be the best manager in the world but neither am I the worst. Airdrieonians--finished second in Division 1. Won the Challenge Cup. Falkirk-- Won the First Division. Dundee United--Fifth in the SPL (only top six finish). Unbeaten at Tannadice for seven months (best for around 15 years). Reached three national semi-finals. At Airdrieonians there were severe financial restrictions. At Dundee United, after finishing fifth, certain things happened that completely de-motivated the club.

3, The Board of Directors and the Chairman are all determined to move our club forward. Indeed David Rae, because of our injuries, has made money available to bring in other loan signings. They are all Queens' men and Saturday hurt them every bit as it did you, the fans.

Lastly, although it hurts going from Messiah to moron in seven weeks! Please believe me that I will be trying everything to keep Queen of the South in the First Division this season.

P.S. Having read back what I have just written I thought I would try and 'lighten it up a bit'. Please don't worry, I have no intention of making a playing comeback!. I think somebody's got their 'wires crossed' when I said I was trying to lose weight and after being turned down by Willie Harkness in the early 80's, may well get to realise both mine and my father's dream, pulling on the blue of Queens. But don't lose any sleep--I'll remain in the dug-out!.

Ian McCall

Bill Goldie
Queens at Raydale 25th September 2006
Queens meet Gretna at Raydale tonight in the Reserve League. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm. Result and details on the 'Website' later tonight.

Bill Goldie
Murray now on the injury list 25th September 2006
Just when things were getting that little bit better on the casualty front another key player, Murray Henderson, has now been added to the injury list. The culprit responsible was Clyde's Dougie Imrie who caught Murray with a rash challenge on Saturday and he's now likely to be facing at least two weeks on the sidelines. Following an X-ray it was found to be ligament damage to his ankle and he is now on crutches for a few days.

Better news however, Neil Scally is OK despite suffering a nasty leg knock against Clyde and skipper, Jim Thomson, should be back for Saturday's visit to Hamilton.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club update 14th September 2006
There is now a reserve list in operation for the Doonhamers travel club buses to Hamilton next Saturday anyone wishing to put their name down please phone the club hotline on 07834687830.

The weekly Doonhamers travel club fixed odds has rolled over again for this weeks prize to be £950 anyone wishing to volunteer to become an agent please see Eck Patterson. Remember the more agents and customers we have the low the bus prices will continue.

Would anyone travelling on the Doonhamers travel club buses to Hamilton please note that as usual a no alcohol policy is in operation. Also seatbelts must now be worn throughout the journey.

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 23rd September 2006
Two goals from Dougie Imrie saw Queens slump again to a slick passing Clyde side and it has to be said that it was a deserved victory for the men from Broadwood. There was little to chose between the teams in the opening twenty minutes but after the Bully Wee scored from a badly defended corner they totally dominated the game. Striker Imrie proved to be their danger man with his forceful runs and it was only a couple of good saves from Barry John Corr that kept the eager Clyde forwards at bay. By contrast Peter Cherrie in the visitors goal had an easy afternoon. New signing Andrew Barrowman was on from the start but had little opportunity to shine. Another home defeat and no goals to cheer sent the Queens fans home dejected.

An irate Ian McCall blasted the performance as totally unacceptable and raged, "That was absolutely dreadful, in fact embarrassingly dreadful. The scoreline actually flattered us as it could well have been 5-0 for Clyde. They looked younger and faster than us and their 'keeper had only two saves to make in the entire match. That was the worst performance since I became manager so something drastic has to be done. I'd only give two of our players, Neil Scally and Jim Lauchlan, pass marks but as manager I must shoulder some of the blame. At times I've criticised the supporters but this afternoon they've every right to be angry, disappointed and disillusioned. Before they scored I thought we were the better side but once again elementary defensive errors cost us dearly. After surviving last season we had aspirations but now we're down there at the bottom and no better off than we were this time last season. What we do now is buckle down, pull ourselves together and get that elusive first win on the board. Another blow of course is Murray Henderson who has done his ankle in".

In contrast Clyde manager Joe Miller emerged from his dressing room beaming and much happier than when he left Palmerston last month following a 4-2 defeat. Said Joe, "That was a great three points. We've regained form now after a poor start and are unbeaten in our last five outings and I can't complain at that." He also praised Doug Imrie for his "valuable contribution".

Bill Goldie
Books uncovered 22nd September 2006
During a clean-up of the Club Shop we have unearthed an unopened box of the excellent publication, 'The Queens 1919-1995, 75 years of Scottish Football'. Despite the rarity of the books and the cover price of £6.50 we are letting these go for £2.50 from the Club Shop and if mail order then it's an additional £3.50 for UK orders or an additional £4.50 for overseas.
Three points vital 21st September 2006
With four home games coming up in the next six matches, Ian McCall is hoping a victory over Clyde at Palmerston on Saturday could be the start of a revival. Said the manager, "Three points are vital for we must start winning games now, especially when we have home advantage. We beat Clyde 4-2 earlier in the season but I must admit that result rather flattered us. It could well have been 6-5 that night with the chances that were created, but I'm not looking for four goals this time around--although it would be nice--a 1-0 win would do me fine.
"We signed a young player from Kilmarnock today, Andrew Barrowman. He's been brought in on loan for a month--perhaps it could be more--owing to the striker shortage. He's 6 feet 1 inch and that should give us a bit more height up front, but I'm still after that creative midfielder and another central defender. Unfortunately the market place is quite small at present with the 'windows' closed and getting new players just now isn't all that easy".

Speaking to the 'Website' on his arrival at Palmerston tonight our new signing said,"I feel it's a good move! Like any other footballer I want to play games and get involved and I hope I can go out and win a First Team place with Queen of the South".
Raring to go
Bill Goldie
Pic. Angus McDougal, Photo, Dfs. 07 850 790 251
Team News 21st September 2006
Queens are gradually getting players back and hope to have a stronger squad available for Saturday. All four new faces Barry Callaghan, Dessie McCaffrey, Warren Moon and today's signing, Andrew Barrowman are named in the squad with both Willie Gibson and Sean O'Connor fit again. Although still sidelined Graham Weir and Andy Aitken even joined in tonight's training although it was just light work and so too did Stephen Swift and Eric Paton. Eric is still bothered with a stomach complaint and is receiving medication in an attempt to clear it up.

Bill Goldie
New Badge 21st September 2006
As we all know Yer hame team is yer ain team and what better way to show your loyalty to our club than to buy the latest Proud to be a Doonhamer metal badge on Sale now at the club shop priced £3.

Graham Crofts
Programme Preview 21st September 2006
In Saturday's programme an exclusive interview with one of the very few black players to turn out for Queens. Also news of a Doonhamer legend who (if selected) could make his 600th senior appearance this weekend and a Super South hero who is still banging in the goals at an age when most players have hung up their boots! All this plus "Hot Rod" in holiday pose.

BLW (QOS Prog)
New striker joins the club 21st September 2006
Ian McCall today added another striker to his squad, Andrew Barrowman. He is currently on a one year contract at Kilmarnock but has joined Queens on a one month loan deal. Andrew was signed by Killie in the close season following a successful trial period which saw him grab a goal in a pre-season match against Elgin City.

Although born in Glasgow the 21-year-old six footer has played most his football South of the Border with Mansfield Town, Walsall, Blackpool, Crewe and Birmingham City, the latter being his former club prior to moving to Rugby Park. He has also represented Scotland at under 19 level.

Said the manager this afternoon, "I'm delighted to get him on board as I've been searching the country for a striker and they're so hard to get. He'll train with us tonight and, all being well, will go straight into the squad for Saturday's game".

Bill Goldie
From www.premierleague.com
Warren Moon-- a player in waiting 20th September 2006
One player who just can't wait to make a start for Queens is new recruit, Warren Moon. Although born in Gravesend, Kent, Warren emigrated to Australia with his parents when only eight.
He recalls, "After playing schools football 'down under' I signed for Brisbane Strikers in my teens, then moved up to A Division level to join Queensland Roar".

Added the 23-year old. "I enjoyed my football in Australia but when my parents decided to take an extended holiday in the U.K. earlier this year I packed my bags and came along with them. I always wanted to try football in Britain and since arriving nine weeks ago I've had trials with both Hibs and Dundee. I must have impressed Tony Mowbray a bit and although he didn't sign me for Hibs he did recommend me to Ian McCall who offered me a contract at Queen of the South.
'Highly recommended'
"I did get on as a sub against Ayr United in a cup match and also took part in a training game against Gretna when I managed to score, but it's no substitute for regular First Team football and that's what I'm aiming at. But I'm enjoying it at Palmerston and all the lads have been great, and I was pleased to see Dessie McCaffrey again who I'd met at Easter Road.

"I'm staying in Dumfries at present, down at the Nith Hotel along with Sean O'Connor. I really like Scotland but I'd like it even more if I could win a place in the First Team. However, I'm a newcomer, and I realise that I must be patient".

Bill Goldie
Pic. Angus McDougal, Photo, Dfs. 07 850 790 251
Youth Cup 20th September 2006
Queens will meet Wigtown at Palmerston in the Second Round of the SFA Youth Cup. In other local ties Gretna are away to Annan while Dalbeattie play hosts to Gala Fairydean. Dates are still to be arranged.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club update 18th September 2006
The Doonhamers travel club man of the match over the two buses to Dundee was 1st P Burns, 2nd B J Corr, 3rd S Robertson.

The Doonhamers travel club buses to Hamilton 30th September leave at 11:00am from the old Tesco Lochfield Road picking up at Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat phone 07834687830.

This weeks prize for the Doonhamers travel club fixed odds is £900 as there was no winners last week. Anyone interested in volunteering to sell the weekly fixed odds please see Eck Patterson.

The Queen of the south supporters action group are looking for helpers to sell raffle tickets. The raffle will be drawn on the 2nd January by David Rae at Palmerston Lounge bar anyone who can help please phone Ross on 01387 267376.

Ross Corbett
A face mask for 'Weiro' 18th September 2006
Striker, Graham Weir, is hoping that a specially designed face mask will give him the necessary protection required and allow him a return to action two weeks earlier than expected. Following surgery last Monday 'Weiro' had three small metal plates inserted in his cheek and, if successful, it is hoped he'll be back within a month.

Bill Goldie
In search of new players 18th September 2006
Despite the 'Window' being closed Ian McCall is still constantly on the search for new players and the manager stressed this afternoon that a central defender, a creative midfielder and another striker were top of his 'shopping list'. But one big obstacle which is causing problems is the fact that 'loan deals' can now only be transacted between Scottish clubs which rules out any moves for players from South of the Border.

One player who the manager admits is being 'sorely missed' is Andy Aitken as 'he had come into the side and successfully filled the role of left-sided defender'.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 18th September 2006
Winner for the second week running was goalkeeper Barry John Corr after the votes were counted from the defeat against Dundee at Dens Park. Second came Paul Burns with penalty King John O'Neill taking third spot.

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.
A new job for John Connolly 17th September 2006
An interested spectator at Dundee on Saturday was former Queens' manager, John Connolly, who last week was appointed Commercial Manager at Dens Park. Said John, "I don't start until the beginning of next month, but it's a great opportunity to get involved within a football club again and I'm quite excited about it. It means giving up my present job as a rep for a print firm and also my Saturday work for the SPL, but I'm looking forward to a new challenge. From my home in Perth it's only 25 miles which isn't too much travelling and that's another bonus". John is disappointed to see Queens struggling at the foot of the table but added, "They've been down there before and fought back and I sincerely hope they will do so again. There's still a long way to go and plenty of points out there to be won".

Bill Goldie
Reserve News 17th September 2006
Queens' Reserves next match will be away to Gretna on Monday, 25th September. In the Reserve League Cup they will meet Cowdenbeath at Palmerston on a date yet to be arranged.

Bill Goldie
Video Clip Action 16th September 2006
Check out the Latest Report for a downloadable video clip of John O'Neill's penalty today. Thanks to Rob Campbell.
Match reaction 16th September 2006
Despite a brave fight Queens went down 2-1 to Dundee at Dens Park this afternoon. That's two weeks in a row we've lost by the odd goal and as is so often the case an ex-player, this time in the shape of Derek Lyle, was no end of trouble and rounded it off by netting the winner from the penalty spot. In the final ten minutes Queens pushed forward for an equaliser roared on by 180 noisey fans but just couldn't break down a stuborn home defence well marshalled by veteran defender Bobby Mann.

Afterwards Ian McCall praised his teams efforts for a battling performance but blamed two bad defensive errors for the loss of the points. Said the manager, "For long periods we were the better team and passed the ball about well but mistakes from our two centre backs, Murray Henderson and Jim Thomson, cost us dearly and both players have been told in no uncertain manner. After we'd been awarded a penalty in the first half I knew the referee would try and even it up, that's exactly what happened. When you're down at the bottom the breaks never seem to go your way and it was the same this afternoon. Apart from our central defenders the rest of the team did well and that's about all I can say."

On the bright side we now see a balancing of the fixtures, the first six matches of the season saw us at home on a mere two occassions, however for the next six we only find ourselves on our travels on two of those.

Bill Goldie
Team News 14th September 2006
On the injury front Queens look like having five first team regulars missing on Saturday. Andy Aitken is slowly improving while Graham Weir had an operation on his fractured cheekbone on Monday and it could be about six weeks before he's back in action. Both Sean O'Connor and Willie Gibson commenced light training on Monday but it's unlikely either will feature this weekend. Eric Paton is also sidelined but not through injury. He has been suffering from a stomach disorder those past few weeks and will be rested meantime.

Stephen Swift has a slight thigh strain and is listed as '50-50', however Jim Thomson, John O'Neill, Barry Callaghan and Colin Scott have now fully recovered and all are available for selection. Warren Moon also returns to the squad.

Bill Goldie
The Road to Dundee 14th September 2006
Queens set off on the road and the miles to Dundee on Saturday still seeking their first league win of the season. But it won't be easy as they will be facing a rejuvenated side 'on a high' following their crushing 4-0 victory over Gretna at Raydale Park.

Dens has never been a 'happy hunting ground' for Queens in the past, but on our last visit there in February we pulled off a dramatic 3-2 win which acted as a springboard in staving off relegation and all that were there will still vividly recall Gary Woods 'thunderbolt' late in the game which clinched the three points.

One player who'll no doubt be all out to prove his worth will be Derek Lyle who was released from Palmerston just last month and scored the opener for Dundee last Saturday, but it's an encounter Queens could do to win as three points at Dens and another win at home to Clyde next Saturday could take us up into the top half of the table.

Bill Goldie
Reserves start with a win 12th September 2006
Queens reserves kicked-off their league programme tonight with a 2-1 victory over Queen's Park reserves but it took a late penalty goal from Neil Scally to ensure victory. Andy Thomson opened the scoring for Queens in twenty minutes and Queen's Park's equaliser came midway through the second half.

Bill Goldie
Now Eric's out 11th September 2006
Just when we thought things couldn't get any worse on the injury front Ian McCall confirmed this evening that Eric Paton has now been ruled out for the foreseeable future. Added the manager, "Eric has had trouble with his stomach for some time now so we'll have to rest him until it clears up".

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 11th September 2006
The voting for the internet fan club man of the match from the league match in Dingwall at the weekend saw Barry John Corr win with Dermott McCaffrey second and Murray Henderson 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.
Reserves kick-off 11th September 2006
Queens Reserves play their opening fixture of the season tomorrow night when they meet Queen's Park Reserves at Lesser Hampden. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club News 10th September 2006
The man of the match on the two Doonhamers travel club buses was 1st B J Corr 2nd M Henderson 3rd P Burns

There are still a few seats on the Doonhamers travel club second bus to Dundee next week leaving at 9:30am from the old Tescos on Lochfield Road picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat to book a seat phone the travel club hotline on 07834687830.

Tickets are now on sale for the Queens supporters action group raffle to raise funds for guid neighburris parade entry for next year and any other projects. The 1st prize for the raffle is become a Queens director for the day at Dundee 20th January 2nd prize hospitality for two at Palmerston against Hamilton 3rd April and the 3rd prize is a signed Queens ball. Anyone who can sell tickets please phone Ross 01387 267376

Ross Corbett
Match reaction 9th September 2006
In recent years Victoria Park, Dingwall hasn't been a 'happy hunting' ground for Queens and we have to go back to May 2004 for our last victory up there and it was to prove another big disappointment this afternoon for the 130 loyal fans who made the long trek north and the only real cheer they had was when the half time result came through from Gretna.

One consolation however - with Airdrie United going down 3-0 at Livingston, Queens are now off the bottom of the table on goal average.

Said manager Ian McCall, "There was nothing to choose between the two sides and I felt we could well have managed a draw. Outwith the top three there will be a lot of games like this in our division this season and I thought at time we played some really good stuff. I can see it being a right battle between the bottom six clubs and at least we're not last in the table now. Our injury problems didn't help and we had to play John O'Neill up front which isn't really his natural position but there were some positives to take out of the game. Dermott McCaffrey and Scott Robertson did well, particularly in the first half whilst Barry Callaghan gave a great performance when he came on as sub and was very unlucky not to score.

"I didn't play Warren Moon this afternoon as he wasn't fully match fit but he'll get another run out with the reserves against Queen's Park at Lesser Hampden on Tuesday night.

"Once again many thanks to our fans who were again magnificent, my biggest regret was not picking up at least a point for them".

Bill Goldie
A fond farewell 8th September 2006
Today was Alan Hall's last day at the 'Dumfries Courier' and as he leaves to continue his journalistic career in Stranraer we wish him all the best. Over the years Alan has given Queens great coverage in the 'Courier' and we all enjoyed hearing it drop through our letterbox every Friday night to read what he had to say. We only hope that his successor, whoever it may be, will continue in the same vein. Good luck Alan.

BLW QoS Programme
Team News 7th September 2006
Without appearing to be too pessimistic Ian McCall admitted, "I've got ten players on the injured list at the moment. Andy Aitken and Graham Weir are long-term and neither Sean O'Connor or Willie Gibson (who has an ankle injury) will be fit for Saturday. Also struggling are Jim Thomson, Barry Callaghan, John O'Neill, Andy Thomson, Colin Scott and Stephen Swift. 'Swifty' played in the Gretna game and although his groin appeared to be O.K., he had to come off with a thigh injury. But looking on the bright side, I'm hoping that four of those six will make it".

Bill Goldie
Queens off to Dingwall 7th September 2006
Queens set off for Dingwall tomorrow and as usual will spend the night in the Inverness area prior to taking on Ross County on Saturday. And they'll be looking for at least a draw, as it's a heck of a long way to go to come back pointless.

Despite our lowly league position Ian McCall was quite upbeat when he spoke to the 'Website' this afternoon and said, "After a stressful eight days which saw us go out of two cups and lose to Gretna in the league, the players had four days off and in spite of the result they deserved the break. They came back on Monday in good spirits and raring to go. However, we all know that there's no easy matches in this league and our initial target is to get up into eighth place and take it from there.

"We had a great workout against a very strong Gretna side in a 'closed doors friendly' on Tuesday night and beat them 3-0. When I first saw the strength of the squad they'd sent I was shocked, but we played superbly and thoroughly deserved the win. It was no fluke, and there was no way they were 'taking it easy' as they'd never do that against Queens.

"It gave us an ideal opportunity to give some of our young players a much-needed game with Scott Robertson, Lewis Sloan, Stuart McColm, Mark Whorlow and James Batey all getting a run-out along with our three new signings. Up to now I've hesitated over Scott Robertson, but on Tuesday night he really 'came of age' and I'm now convinced he's ready for the challenge of First Team football. We've not seen the best of Michael Mullen this season but he too worked hard and caused the Gretna defence a lot of bother.

"Of the new boys, Barry Callaghan has done well since he came in and his deliveries from free-kicks and corners have impressed me. Dermot McCaffrey has added a bit more pace to the back four and I think our Aussie player, Warren Moon, will be a good signing. He has an exceptional left foot, I'm sure Gretna will vouch for that, and his passing against them was excellent.

"I'm still on the lookout for more new players. I thought we might have got ex-Hibs and Dundee man, Tam McManus, on loan for a couple of months to cover till 'Weiro' gets back. He's currently at Falkirk but it looks like he may well be offered a contract there.

"We've now got two tough away matches coming up at Ross County and Dundee and what I'm looking for is some good luck for a change as we've certainly had more than our fair share of bad luck those past few weeks"

Bill Goldie
Action Group Prize Draw 7th September 2006
Queen of the South Action Group are holding a prize draw to enable them to raise funds for their entry in the 2007 Guid Nychburris day parade. First Prize: You become a 'director' of the club for a day at the Dundee v QOS match at Dens Park on Saturday, 20th January, 2007. Second Prize: Hospitality for Two at the QOS v Hamilton match at Palmerston on Saturday, 3rd April, 2007. Third Prize: An official autographed QOS match ball.

Our Chairman, David Rae, will make the draw on Tuesday, 2nd January (the day of the Gretna game) in the Palmerston Lounge Bar. Tickets will be on sale from this weekend--contact Ross Corbett.

Bill Goldie
Queens and Gretna 6th September 2006
Queens' Youths will be all out to complete a 'hat-trick' of victories when they meet Gretna Under-14s at the Academy Playing Fields on Sunday. The match kicks-off at 12 noon. On Sunday past we beat Gretna Under-15s, 4-2, and the week previous defeated the Raydale Under-13s, 4-3, so another win this weekend would do us nicely. It also heralds the return to Dumfries of former Queens' manager, Iain Scott, who is in charge of their Under-14 squad.

Last night Queens played hosts to Gretna in a 'closed-doors friendly' at Palmerston and beat them convincingly, 3-0. All three goals came early--Michael Mullen opened the scoring in the 10th minute, on-loan Barry Callaghan slotted home the second in the 15th minute but the 'Goal of the Game' came in the 20th minute when Aussie new boy, Warren Moon hammered home an unsavable free-kick from 35 yards into the top corner of the net. Shades of the early 1960's and John McTurk.

Gretna fielded a very strong squad most of whom were in the side that beat Hamilton in the Challenge Cup last Wednesday and included the likes of Tosh, Deuchar, Bingham, McGuffie, Innes, McQuilken, O'Neil and Baldacchino. In the second half Queens introduced youngsters like James Baty and Mark Whorlow once they knew the game was won. We're not kidding ourselves--no way did it make up for the 3-0 defeat in the league, but it does prove they can be beaten.

Bill Goldie
From the Chairman 5th September 2006
In an exclusive interview with the 'Website' yesterday, Chairman, David Rae confirmed that he welcomed the two week break for the international matches and added, "Some don't agree with it but in our present circumstances it's come at a good time for us. We've had a really hectic schedule lately with eight matches in the month of August and three very hard ones in nine days only last week. In those nine days we played no fewer than five and a half hours of competitive football which is a lot to ask of a part-time team and I think the fans and players alike would be glad of the respite".

Another good reason of course was our injury worries. Said the Chairman, "Luck has been with us this season in the cup draws with all four at home, but it has deserted us when it comes to injuries for we've had more than our fair share. We lost our top two strikers, Graham Weir and Sean O'Connor, in the Gretna match and at the same time another three were also sidelined. Fortunately one or two could be fit for our long trip to Dingwall at the weekend, so I'm 'keeping my fingers crossed' they make it".

We then put it to the Chairman. We're now out of the two cups and bottom of the league--not the best start to the season? "No, it's not exactly what I'd hoped for, but it can only get better" he stressed. "Nevertheless, being out of the cups might prove a 'blessing in disguise' for we can now focus fully on the league until the Scottish Cup comes up in January. But, having said that, if I had a choice I'd rather still be in them. Personally, I feel that the ties in the two cup competitions could be spaced out a bit more--perhaps a weeks break after the first rounds and the same after the two second round ties. It would give teams more time to re-charge their batteries!

"We lost to Livingston, St Johnstone and Gretna in the league, but I'm convinced they're all good sides who'll be up there challenging for promotion. But my biggest disappointment was losing that goal in extra time at Airdrie for it cost us two valuable points. However, I've said from the start of the season that Gretna would win our league and I'm sticking to that. They have the strength in depth that only the 'Old Firm' and, perhaps' Hearts can match. Let's face it, out of the 16 man squad that faced us they were able to make thirteen changes for ther cup game against Hamilton three days later and still win 3-1".

Have the plans for the new stadium been completely shelved we then asked Davie. "I always maintained that no work would commence until all the necessary funding was in place" he insisted. "And I still stand by that. Unfortunately that funding never did fully materialise so that's why nothing's happened. Personally, and I state personally, I feel a stand at the Terregles Street end would be sufficient at this moment in time. It would make the stadium more complete and we could plan on from there.

"Palmerston is looking great just now and even Chic Young remarked in a national newspaper how tidy it was. And it's all down to the Action Group and a few others who have put in endless hours of work in the close season and beyond to make it that way. I can only re-iterate what I've said countless times before over the past couple of months--thank you all--and always remember, Your hame team's your ain team!

"It has been brought to my attention that a 'yob element' have been causing disturbance in the East Stand. They are mostly youths who appear to be in their mid-teens and arguments have broken out between them and other more senior fans. This behavior and lack of respect will not be tolerated at Palmerston and the directors and myself will take the necessary steps to ensure it stops".

Bill Goldie
Reserves kick-off 5th September 2006
Queens Reserves play their opening fixture of the season next Tuesday night when they meet Queen's Park Reserves at Lesser Hampden. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm.

Bill Goldie
Change of date 5th September 2006
The Livingston v Queen of the South match scheduled for 26th December (Boxing Day) will now take place at Almondvale on Saturday, 23rd December, by mutual agreement of both clubs.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Updates 4th September 2006
The Doonhamers travel club weekly fixed odds was won by S Deeney from the Palmerston Lounge Bar and J Little who's agent was Billie Currie both received £700. This weeks prize starts of at £800.

The Doonhamers travel club buses to Ross County leave from Lochfield Road(old Tescos) at 7:30am picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat there are two seats left phone the travel club hotline a.s.a.p 07834687830.

Ross Corbett
Injury update 1st September 2006
Our physio, John Kerr, reports that Jim Thomson and Andy Aitken, who underwent surgery in Sheffield yesterday, are both progressing well. Said John, "I spoke to the surgeon and he assured me that everything went well and the two of them are heading back up the road today". Jim is itching to get back and it is hoped he'll be fit for the match at Ross County. Stephen Swift is also expected to be ready for that game and even Sean O'Connor might just make it. So all of a sudden, 'the sun is shining a bit brighter again'.

Despite an exhausting effort, manager Ian McCall was unable to get any more players signed before the August 'Window' closed at midnight yesterday. But all is not yet lost as, under new legislation, we are still allowed to sign players 'on loan' and players 'out of contract' outwith the 'Windows'.

Bill Goldie
Man of the match 1st September 2006
The voting for the internet fan club man of the match from the cup tie versus Ayr United on Wednesday evening was loand star Barry Callaghan with Jim Lauchlan second and John O'Neill 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.
Margaret Bell 1st September 2006
There was a very important presentation made on Thursday 31 August to Margaret Bell who worked in the office at Palmerston Park for Queen of the South Football Club for over 18 years. During this time she was Office Secretary for 16 years before becoming Club Secretary for the last 2 years. During this time she served 5 different Chairmen and 10 Football Managers.

Everyone involved in the Club wishes her a long and healthy retirement and all the best for the future.


David Rae presents Margaret with her retirement present from Queen of the South.
Next Gretna game 31st August 2006
As Gretna move into the last eight of the Challenge Cup with a team comprised of 13 (out of 16) players who didn't start against Queens our league match against them on the 11th November will be postponed if they reach the final which is played the next day (12th).

BLW (QoS Prog.)
Some better news 31st August 2006
Sean O'Connor's ankle injury is not as bad as was first thought. Although he's still on crutches it is hoped he'll be back in action in two to three weeks rather than six to eight weeks as was expected.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 30th August 2006
A deflected goal in the 89th minute denied Queens a place in the quarter finals of the Challenge Cup. With only one minute remaining on the clock Ayr United grabbed an equaliser to take the match into extra-time against ten man Queens who had lost Willie Gibson with an ankle injury five minutes from time.

There were no further goals in injury time so the tie went to a penalty shoot out. In the drama that followed Ayr United won 5-4, O'Neill, Mackenzie, Paton and Scally finding the net with Andy Thomson the only sinner, but five out of five for the visitors clinched the match.

Said coach Stevie Morrison, "We were bitterly disappointed to go out in the manner we did. Conceding a goal so late then losing in a penalty shoot out.... We were the better side in terms of possession but couldn't turn that advantage into goals, we did well to come back from one down but that late strike was a killer. It was difficult to play extra-time with only ten men, but we held out. But when it goes to penalties anyone can win. We've now played 780 minutes of competitive football in the month of August and I think we all need a rest now."

Ayr boss Robert Connor said, "I'm delighted to win through having lost 7-6 in a penalty shoot out with Dunfermline last week in the CIS Cup. That takes some of the hurt away."

Sponsors man of the match - Barry Callaghan, crowd - 1239.

Bill Goldie
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