LATEST NEWS
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.
Player of the Season 30th April 2005
The Doonhamers Travel Club held their annual 'Player of the Season' awards at the Labour Social Club in Dumfries tonight. It turned out a memorable evening for Jim Thomson who won the main 'Player of the Season' awards plus two other trophies. It's the second time Jim has picked up the 'Player of the Year', his last coming seven years ago in season 1997/98.

Full winners were:
Player of the Year:
1 -
Jim Thomson
2 -
Eric Paton
3 -
Brian McColligan
Young Player of the Year:
1 -
Paul Burns
2 -
Derek Lyle
3 -
Stephen Payne
Junior Members Player of the Year:
1 -
Jim Thomson
2 -
Eric Paton
3 -
David McNiven
Away Day Player of the Year:
1 -
Jim Thomson
2 -
Brian McColligan
3 -
Gary Wood
Goal of the Seaon:
1 -
Eric Paton - Ross County away
2 -
Stephen Payne - Partick Thistle away
3 -
Willie Gibson - Montrose away
Rear of the Year:
1 -
Derek Lyle
2 -
Emilio Jaconelli and Stephen Payne
3 -
Brian Reid
MC for the night was Travel Club Chairman Ross Corbett and he was assisted in the prize giving by Pamela Davers and four Travel Club regulars who attended every away match this season.

Bill Goldie
Awards time 30th April 2005
The winners of the Queen of the South Fan Club 'Player of the Season' awards were announced today. The winner of the 'Player of the Season award is Jim Thomson, the 'Young Player of the Season' went to Paul Burns and the 'Goal of the Season' was adjudged to be Derek Lyle's strike versus Falkirk at Palmerston.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 30th April 2005
Two goals in two minutes in the first half saw Queens coast to a comfortable 2-0 victory over St Johnstone in the last home game of the season. They now move up to fourth place in the table and a win at Falkirk next week would ensure their highest finish in the first division since they were promoted three years ago.

Both goals came from excellent free-kicks from sponsors man of the match Stephen Payne and were netted superbly by Gary Wood, one with his head and the other with his right foot.

Manager Iain Scott was happy that the fans had a win to celebrate in the final home match. Said Scotty, "They've been great all season so that win was for them. We started slowly and gave the ball away cheaply but once the two goals went in we were very comfortable

"Our two goals came from set pieces from almost identical positions. They were great deliveries from Stephen Payne and Gary Wood finished off well.

"We played Gary up front and he hardly scored a goal, then we play him at full back and he nets two. You can never tell in football".

Asked about Derek Lyle's injury he added, "Del's okay, it's nothing serious".

Bill Goldie
Queens Champs 30th April 2005
Congratulations to the Queen of the South Bar's "B" team who won the Domino League "B" division championship in a play-off on Thursday night.

Bill Goldie
Junior Blues 28th April 2005
Steve Bowey is pictured below receiving the Junior Blues Player of the Year award for the third year in a row. He received the award from Alan Shuttleworth of Mabie Farm Park, sponsor of the Junior Blues newsletter and competition.

As well as voting for the Junior Blues Player of the Year, children sent in entries to the competition with all correct entries being put into a draw to win Queen of the South related prizes. Pictured with Steve and Alan are the three lucky Junior Blues receiving their Queen of the South goody bags, left to right, Ross Woodward, Siouxsie Coupland and Gavin Evans.
Photograph by Margaret Heuchan.
Final discounts 27th April 2005
The club shop will be selling off all of the remaining items of replica kit on Saturday. There is a limited supply of sizes and most that we do have are in the childs size range. Tops are priced at £10, shorts at £8 and socks at £4. Get there early as it is strictly first come first served.
Wonder strike 27th April 2005
Even though four days have elapsed, 'Scotty' was still raving about Eric Paton's 'wonder strike' at Ross County. He enthused, "If that's not 'Scotsports Goal of the Season' I'll be amazed" he said. "I've been in football for a long time and it's one of the best goals I've seen. It was so calculated. Eric collected the ball, looked up, gauged where the keeper was and his judgement was brilliant. If I remember correctly, Andy Goram was caught out in similar fashion at Palmerston two or three years ago".

Bill Goldie
Last home game 27th April 2005
Saturday will see yet another season roll to a close for home fans with St Johnstone as our visitors. With John Connolly now departed it will take a 'bit of the edge' from the fixture, since all Queens' fans were looking forward to a victory over our former boss. However, Owen Coyle is now at the helm and after losing to his old club, Airdrie United in his managerial debut on Saturday, he'll be all out to take the points this afternoon.

Commenting on the game Iain Scott said, "If we want to take fourth place then it's a game we must win. Even with John Connolly gone, all the lads are still up for it, and I'm happy at the positive approach during training this week. I was chatting to Owen Coyle at the PFA awards on Sunday night and he joked about us playing some 'kids' on Saturday so he can get a 'win under his belt'. But if Owen wants the points he'll have to play for them, for no way we'll be taking it easy".

Eric may be missing!

Wonder goal man Eric Paton will be missing on Saturday due to cartilidge problems. He may also be doubtful for the last game of the season at Falkirk.

As it could be the last time fans will stand on the 'Glasgow Street' terracing, a photograph has been arranged for historical reasons. This will be taken at half-time and supporters are urged to bring their flags and banners to make it a memorable occasion. Fans are asked to congregate in the area between the goals and the main stand for the picture.

Bill Goldie
Pre-season matches 27th April 2005
Two pre-season matches have been officially confirmed. Queens Park (away) on Wednesday, 13th July (unlikely to be at the National Stadium however) and Carlisle United at Palmerston on Wednesday, 20th July. The latter looks quite an appetising fixture since it's several years since we've met our Border neighbours.

It's also hoped to play Southport (away) on Saturday, 9th July and Darlington (home) on Saturday, 16th July, but both those games have yet to be finalised. Wednesday, 6th July and Saturday, 23rd July have been pencilled in for other possible fixtures and talks are in progress with Newcastle United, Motherwell and other clubs as opposition.

Bill Goldie
Another signing 27th April 2005
It has just been announced that Tommy English has agreed a one year extension to his existing contract and intends to sign tonight along with Stephen Payne. Tommy has made 30 starts this season.

Bill Goldie
Local football teams join forces to kick crime 26th April 2005
Palmerston Park was the venue this afternoon for the launch of a local Dumfries and Galloway branch of Scotland Crimestoppers. It's aim is to prevent and reduce crime and this invaluable community service enables anyone with details of criminal activity to pass them on anonymously, without fear of exposure or retribution.

Stewart McCulloch, Chairman of 'Crimestoppers Scotland' said, "Dumfries and Galloway will, this week, follow the successful examples of Grampian/Highland and Central, Fife and Tayside in forming a Crimestoppers local campaigning base".

Local Convener is Sheena Borthwick of West Sound and others on the sub-committee are: Tony Wood, Graham Muir, Jim Ireland, David Gurney, Robert Thom, Chris Lyon, Robert McCormack, Brian Anderson, Norman Ross, Fiona Blackwood, Nick Cameron and Roy Kennedy.

Chief Constable of Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary, David Strang, gave a short address before cutting a string to release hundreds of balloons.

Queen of the South were represented by Chairman, David Rae; Manager, Iain Scott; Business Development Manager, Kenny Crichton and players, Eric Paton and Derek Lyle. From Gretna F.C. were Manager, Rowan Alexander; Community Development Manager, Graham Muir along with players Ryan McGuffie and Derek Collins.


Bill Goldie
Photograph by Cameron Murray, South West Sound.
Payne to sign tomorrow 26th April 2005
Stephen Payne is all set to sign a one year extension to his existing contract tomorrow night. Said manager, Iain Scott, "We've been monitoring Stephen closely those past couple of months and he was told that his future at Palmerston was in his own hands, or should I say, feet.

"He's been with us now for almost a year and a half. There were never any problem with his play going forward, but the role he's in he also had to know when to get back and defend when needed. So I think 'the penny's dropped' now and he realises what's required of him.
"He's got more confidence in himself now and we've got more confidence in him, and I'm sure he's capable of netting a good few goals for us next season".

Bill Goldie
It's all down to Budget 26th April 2005
Once Stephen Payne puts pen to paper, we'll have 15 players under contract for next season. However, the manager admitted, "It's all down to our budget how big the first team squad will be. Ideally I'd like 20 but I might have to settle for 19. But I must stress the Board's been brilliant and I appreciate that, with a fall in attendancies and the loss of the pools money, it's been difficult for them. We still have one or two things to sort out before my final budget's set but I know they'll be doing the best they can for me. During the 'January Window' I was talking to a striker. He was quite keen to come to Queens and we were keen to get him, but again it's all down to what we can afford.

"This is the time of the season that no manager enjoys, having to inform players that 'their contract won't be renewed'. We've a very close 'family' unit here at Palmerston and that certainly doesn't make the task any easier. Nevertheless it's got to be done! I've already had other managers on the phone asking if we've any players available for next season, but for any who do leave we will do our utmost to ensure they get the best club possible".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 25th April 2005
The result from the man of the match voting from the game versus Ross County on Saturday was as follows:

First - Eric Paton - 7.90
Second - Jim Thomson - 6.90
Third - Gary Wood - 6.50

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Alexander 'Sandy' Selkirk 24th April 2005
An honoured guest at the recent Queens versus Raith match was none other than former goalkeeper Sandy Selkirk. Sandy turned out for Queens in the 1956/57 season taking over from the injured Roy Henderson for much of the season but being injured himself in a reserve match versus Celtic late in the season meaning that his career at Dumfries was cut short. During his visit Sandy also had the opportunity to meet no less than three other goalkeepers that followed Sandy in turning out for the doonhamers, Allan Ball, Colin Scott and Richie Barnard.
An excellent article by Colin Rutherford on Sandy can be found in the Hamilton Accies match day programme from the 1st January 2005.
Dingwall Draw 23rd April 2005
Despite a 'super strike' from Eric Paton, his fourth goal of the season this duel in the sun at Victoria Park finished in a 1-1 draw. A late counter by Airdrie saw them leapfrog two places in the table but with Hamilton Accies winning 2-0 in Kirkcaldy they now join the 'mix' for that coveted fourth place. As promised manager Iain Scott made several changes with Chris Carr making his debut and Willie Gibson and Gary Wood also on from the start and it must be said that Queens had the better chances to secure maximum points.

Describing his wonder goal Eric Paton was as a modest as ever. He said, "I got the ball just inside their half, took two steps , looked up and saw the keeper well off his line. I just let fly and it went straight as a die into the net. I wish I could hit my golf shots as straight as that." Is it the best goal you've ever scored we asked Eric, "I don't know about that, " he said, "But certainly one of the best."

Bill Goldie
The return of 'Jonjo' 22nd April 2005
Queens officially signed John O'Neill this afternoon. 'Jonjo' of course is no stranger to the club having spent two and a half seasons at Palmerston and netting 45 goals in 77 starts. Not bad for a player described as an attacking midfielder. It is believed to be a one year contract with a further one year option.

Manager, Iain Scott, was thrilled to have John 'back in the fold' and said, "He's a quality player and very experienced. We've been lacking goals this season and John is a proven goal scorer, particularly at this level. It's my personal belief that he should never have left Palmerston in the first place. It's a pre-contactual agreement so he's tied to St Mirren until the end of the season and he can't play for us till it's finished. Several other clubs were interested in acquiring John--Airdrie United and Brechin City, the latter obviously have 'money to burn' having sold Chris Templeman to Morton for £100,000. There were also two others from the Second Division as well".
John's career started as a 15-year-old at Queens Park where he spent five years before signing for Celtic. His first team debut for the Parkhead club was a testimonial match against Manchester United at Old Trafford with a crowd of 44,000. Quite an experience!

John was two years with Celtic but moved on to Bournemouth for a spell to try his luck in English football. He first signed for Queens in January, 2001, and became a big favourite with the fans and was a member or both the League Championship winning squad and the Challenge Cup winning side. In season 2001-02 he was voted PFA 'Player of the Year' for Division Two by his fellow professionals.

John departed Palmerston in April, 2003 and signed for St Mirren but now he's back and looking forward to a renewed challenge. And we're sure he'll get a warm welcome back from the Queen of the South 'faithful'.

Talking to the 'Website' after putting pen to paper, he said, "I'm delighted to be coming back to Queens. It all really 'came out of the blue'--I met 'Scotty' earlier in the week and we shook hands on an agreement and this afternoon we got it all tied up. I wasn't actually aware of my scoring record at Palmerston until 'Wasa' enlightened me this afternoon. But I'm raring to go now, and add some more goals to that tally.

"It will be like 'coming back home' for I've kept in touch with quite a few of the Queens' players since I left--Jim Thomson, 'Bowser' plus one or two more and, of course, my old mate Kenny Crichton".

Bill Goldie
Dingwall Bound 21st April 2005
It's northbound to Ross County on Saturday and it's a match Queens will need to win to keep them in with a chance of a fourth place finish. Said manager Iain Scott, "I enjoy playing Ross County. Like us they try and pass the ball around, not up in the air all the time. I'm looking forward to a good football match. But they'll be a few changes in our lineup. We've players who haven't featured too much in recent weeks so I'd like to give them an opportunity of a game. There's Paul Burns, Willie Gibson, Steven Bell, Chris Carr and one or two others I'd like to get a good look at.

"Even at this late stage of the campaign it's still a very tight situation with only a single point separating ourselves and three other clubs. It's a crazy league! If we win at Dingwall and St Johnstone draw with Airdrie then we'll be back in fourth place again. That's our target and it could prove beneficial to the club when it comes to 'seeding' in the C.I.S. Cup next season".

Looking back at the Raith Rovers match 'Scotty' admitted, "I was very disappointed at the final result. I stressed that the first goal was important and we got that. We could well have been three up in the first half hour, but they equalised within ten minutes of us scoring and 'ran their socks off' for the rest of the game. Our lads were all disappointed as well, and you could see it in their faces as they left the pitch at the final whistle".

Bill Goldie
Gibson and Burns retained 21st April 2005
Two of our up-and-coming young stars have had their contracts extended by a year. Willie Gibson and Paul Burns have both been in and out of the first team this season but now have another 12 months to claim a regular place in the line-up.

Bill Goldie
Charity Leg Wax 20th April 2005
Ten brave lads from the 'Fit for Purpose' programme are taking part in a Sponsored Leg Wax to be held at the North West Resources Centre tomorrow at 11 a.m. They have all volunteered to have one of their legs 'waxed', so look in and watch the boys scream. Proceeds will go to the Lincluden Toddler Nursery Group.

Bill Goldie
Change of Date 20th April 2005
Please note: The Under-19 League Cup match against Clyde, scheduled for this Sunday, has been postponed. It will now take place at the Keswick Centre, Dumfries, on Wednesday 27th April. Kick-off is at 7.15 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Terms agreed with new player 20th April 2005
Manager Iain Scott confirmed today that he has agreed terms with a new player. Said 'Scotty', "He can play in midfield or up front. We agreed terms and shook hands on it this afternoon and the necessary paperwork will be completed on Friday. However, I'm not naming names at the moment".

There have been much debate over Stephen Payne those past few weeks. On that one the manager confessed, "I'm well aware what Stephen's capable of. We had a chat in the office this week as he was concerned with his future here. I asked him 'How many games have you played lately'. Five he replied. I then said 'So you've got three left to convince me'. That's how it stands at the moment".

Bill Goldie
Alex Goodwin 20th April 2005
We have also been informed of the untimely death yesterday of great Queens fan and active member of the new Queen of the South Supporters Trust and the Doonhamers Travel Club Alex Goodwin. All at Queen of the South would offer our deepest sympathy to Alex's family.
Jimmy Greenock 20th April 2005
We hear today of the death of former Queens great Jimmy Greenock. Five years ago Jimmy made a return to Palmerston with his brother and nephew to take in the Queens versus Hamilton Accies 1-1 draw. Those of you with a knowledge of Queens history or indeed are old enough to remember Jimmy in action will no doubt be aware that he was one of the most skilful left half's ever to pull on the Royal Blue jersey of the Doonhamers.
[Jimmy Greenock] [Jimmy Greenock]
Jimmy, centre, with his brother and nephew, Lindsay, right. Jimmy in action.
Jimmy joined Queens in 1951 from Wishaw Juniors, he played in 236 matches for Queens and scored 14 goals. Jimmy was originally a Motherwell supporter and was keen to play for them, however despite two trials and scoring for them they didn't wait when they called round for Jimmy and he was out. Queens however were persistent and waited for Jimmy to return when they called. Speaking to the website five years ago Jimmy told us that his days spent at Palmerston were some of the best he ever had and that he still had great affection for the club and the town.

Jimmy died following a long illness and was buried on Monday 18th April just 13 days after his 75th birthday - the condolences of all associated with Queen of the South go out to Jimmy's family and thanks to Jimmy's nephew Lindsay Greenock for informing us.
J.T. voted 'Player of the Year' at Sanquhar 18th April 2005
The Sanquhar branch of the Queen of the South Supporters Club held their annual presentation evening in the local Community Centre last night and the 'Player of the Year' award went to Jim Thomson who has enjoyed another excellent season. Over 90 were in attendance and apart from the delighted J.T., Chairman, David Rae and Manager, Iain Scott were there representing the club. The committee confirmed it had been a very successful night and described the Chairman, 'Scotty' and Jim Thomson as 'great ambassadors for Queen of the South'.
Bill Goldie

Photo by courtesy of Andy McDowall (Upper Nithsdale News)
David in top five 18th April 2005
Despite missing 14 games this season, David McNiven is still fifth top league scorer in our division. The list reads: Darryle Duffy (Falkirk) 16, Ian Harty (Clyde) 15, Owen Coyle (Airdrie) 14, Daniel McBreen (Falkirk) 13 and David McNiven (Q.O.S.) 11. In our 33 matches to date David has made 19 starts.

Bill Goldie
Scotty on the Move 18th April 2005
It was a very busy weekend for manager, Iain Scott. After watching Queens draw with Raith Rovers at Palmerston on Saturday he motored 28 miles up the road for the Sanquhar branch of the Queen of the South Supporters Club annual award night. He saw a delighted Jim Thomson collect the 'Player of the Year' award and then it was on the move again. This time a longer journey, 350 miles south during the night (via Wanlockhead and Leadhills) to the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff to see his home town team Newcastle United play Manchester United in the semi-final of the F.A. Cup. However, we won't mention the score.

Bill Goldie
Alex Williams released 18th April 2005
Although Alex Williams has now been released, the manager believes the young striker 'paid his way'. Said 'Scotty', 'I'm sorry it didn't work out for Alex yet I've no regrets at bringing him here on loan. In his first outing he came on as a sub against Raith Rovers at Kirkcaldy and laid on a last-minute winner for Derek Lyle. We'd just lost four games on the trot so that win was so important and got us back on track again'.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 18th April 2005
The result from the man of the match voting from the game versus Raith Rovers on Saturday was as follows:

First - Stephen Payne - 6.95
Second - David McNiven - 6.55
Third - Eric Paton - 6.48

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Under 19s crash to St Mirren 17th April 2005
Queens Under 19s went down 4-0 to St Mirren at Glasgow this afternoon, but it was no disgrace, for our youngsters were up against one of the best sides in Scotland. St Mirren have already beaten Rangers, Dundee United and Kilmarnock this season and are finalists in the BP Youth Cup.

The home side took the lead in the 25th minute following a corner, but Queens kept fighting and Craig Rudd missed two great chances to get back on level terms. Scott Robertson was unlucky with a shot which deserved to go in but St Mirren hit back and made in 2-0 on the stroke of half time.

Saints started the second half the way they ended the first period and extended their lead on the hour mark. With the match now outwith their reach, Queens took the opportunity to field two young 16-year-olds as substitutes but their opponents ended an impressive performance with a fourth goal five minutes from time.

The Queens' coaching staff would like to take this opportunity to wish St Mirren all the best when they meet Celtic in the BP Cup Final in ten days time.

Bill Goldie
Goal action 17th April 2005
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the Queens goal from the match versus Raith today. Click on the link below but remember that the clip is large and will take some time to download unless you are on broadband. The best way is to right click on the link and select 'Save Target As', once downloaded you can then select 'Open' from the dialogue box that appears and the whole clip will play uninterrupted.

McNiven nets - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 16th April 2005
After dominating for the first half hour Queens struggled in the end and had to settle for a 1-1 draw against lowly Raith Rovers. It was a typical end of season encounter but our inability to beat the bottom team saw us slip three places to seventh spot in the table. However a single point now separates four teams so fourth place is still a distinct possibility.

Said manager Iain Scott after the game, "It was definitely two points dropped, we told the players before kick-off to show them respect for they're a better side than their league position shows. I thought we played well in the first half but after the interval the game went flat. We got a lucky 'assist' from the referee for our goal but all credit to Tommy English his final delivery was superb and David McNiven was on the spot to score. The goal we lost was a bad one. It came from a set piece and should have cleared, I'll have to watch it again on the video to get a clearer picture of what actually happened. But we had enough chances to win the game and although we're 100% safe now I don't want our season to fizzle out for we've still three matches to play."

Goal scorer and sponsors Man of the Match David McNiven also praised Tommy English for his perfect cross. Said the striker, "It was a perfect ball, all I had to do was flick it into the net." David could have won the game for us in the dying minutes but explained, "I tried to lob the keeper but the ball bounced badly with backspin on it and I didn't get enough height to beat the keeper".

An interested spectator at the match today was former goalkeeper Alex Selkirk who made the trip from the south coast of England to take in the game.

Bill Goldie
Shirt Sponsorship Draw 15th April 2004
The Shirt Sponsorship Draw letters have been sent out this week and Queens are hoping that it will be another record breaking year for entrants. The value of the prize this season has been put at £80,000 which for an entry fee of just £350 must surely be a bargain, particularly when you consider that every entrant will receive a free season ticket.

We are looking for as many entrants as possible so if you think that your employer or even you yourself would like to enter then you can print off the online form via this linkDraw Form, fill it in and post it to Palmerston with the appropriate remittance.

You can download the entire sponsorship pack by clicking on this link Sponsorship pack but you will need Adobe Acrobat to read the file.
Cash for kids 15th April 2004
There will be a special fundraising event at Palmerston at half-time on the 30th April. Click on this link for detailsCash for Kids.
Falkirk Bus 14th April 2005
A bus to Falkirk on 7th May will leave the Globe Inn, Market Square at 9.00am (£8.00). Names to Rab Slater of Galloway Cabs. Fancy Dress would be appreciated as it is a Queens last game of the season tradition.

BLW
Brick wall 14th April 2005
The 'Brick in the Wall' scheme started by Queens a couple of seasons ago has now been closed, the existing orders will all be honoured and bricks should appear in the near future.
Gary signs an extension 13th April 2005
Gary Wood tonight signed an extension to his contract. The 28-year-old cost Queens over £30,000 when he joined from Berwick Rangers in August 2003 and has proved a valuable and versatile player who can play in practically any position. Before he put pen to paper he had been a target for Partick Thistle but opted to remain at Palmerston.

Manager, Iain Scott was pleased to get the deal all 'done and dusted'. He said, "That's an other important piece in the jig-saw. Gary's so versatile and a great guy to have in the squad. He's a winner. Not counting the young lads under 24, that's 11 players now signed up for next season".

Bill Goldie
Queens v Raith Rovers 13th April 2005
Queens face 'bottom dogs' Raith Rovers at Palmerston on Saturday with fourth spot in the table now their target. The Kirkcaldy side have never won away from home in the league this season and have only managed two draws on their travels so far. On paper it appears a 'banker' home win but football's a funny old game and manager Iain Scott warns, "We're expected to win while Raith have nothing to lose and under no pressure, so we've got to be careful. On Saturday they beat Partick Thistle and a few weeks ago held league champions Falkirk to a draw, so I know it will be tough.

"I think the first goal is going to be the important one in this match. Gordon Dalziel's got them well organised now and if they get in front they grow in confidence and enjoy their football. It's when they go behind that the heads start to go down. So we must guard against losing any silly goals early on.

"We lost our chance of third place with the defeat at Paisley on Saturday, but I've no complaints at the performance. Nothing at all went for us but it was a positive display, particularly in the second half and our fans 'clapped' us off the park. It's not often that happens when you lose 3-0. Fourth spot is our target now and that would still be an achievement considering we've finished fifth in the last two years. It's still so tight in the middle of the table with five clubs within four points of each other. Any of us could finish fourth top or third bottom.

Bill Goldie
Team News 13th April 2005
Speaking on the goalkeeper 'crisis' Scotty said, "We had a hard time of it on Saturday with both our keepers coming off the field injured. Richie Barnard has five stitches in his chin, but he trained as usual this week and is O.K. for Saturday. He's as 'tough as old boots is Richie.

Colin Scott, however, has a ruptured quad muscle in his thigh which is quite painful, so he'll be out for the rest of the season. Colin's due to go into hospital for a minor op. next week so young Graham Wright will take his place on the bench.

Jim Thomson has now served his two match suspension and he'll be back in the squad.

Bill Goldie
I'll 'Carry the Can' says Scotty. 12th April 2005
Commenting on our disqualification from the Southern Counties Challenge Cup after beating Threave Rovers last Wednesday's night Iain Scott said, "In past seasons we were always allowed to field suspended players in any South of Scotland competition--be it cup or league matches. Apparently there was an amendment to that rule made during the close season which I was not made aware of. I gave the list of players with Jim Thomson's name on it to the team coach and as manager I'll take full responsibility. I'm manager of Queen of the South so it's my job to take the 'flak' when things go wrong. I always have done and I always will do.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 11th April 2005
The result from the man of the match voting from the game versus St Mirren on Saturday was as follows:

First - Brian Reid - 7.04
Second - Gary Wood - 6.83
Third - Eric Paton - 6.72

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Under-19s beat the Spiders 10th April 2005
Queens' under-19s maintained their good form in the League Cup with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Queens Park at Dalbeattie this afternoon. They opened the scoring midway through the first half when Craig Rudd collected a through ball from Stuart Hill, controlled it' before turning his marked and firing a shot high into the top corner of the net.

South were denied a strong penalty claim just prior to the interval, but they did get goal number two five minutes into the second half with that man Rudd again on target. Hill won a challenge in his own half, threaded a fine pass to Rudd and the big striker beat the advancing keeper with a great lob from 25 yards out.

Only minutes later, Queens Park pulled on back following a corner, then both Scott Robertson and Allan Inglis missed chances to put the homesters further ahead. The third goal eventually came ten minutes from time. Mark Brown broke from midfield, beat the last defender and slotted the ball home from just inside the box.

The next match for Queens' Under 19s will be away to St Mirren.

Bill Goldie
Bowser 'honoured' 10th April 2005
News has reached us of an unusual honour bestowed upon Steve Bowey. Queens fan and commercial manager Ian Heuchan has recently named a new addition to his 'family' after the tough tackling Geordie midfielder. Not all of you will know but Ian is a full-time dairy farmer and part-time commercial manager for Queens along with his wife Margaret. The addition to his family is a beautiful Friesian cow called Bowser.

Bowser! (Thanks to Colin Rutherford for use of the photograph)
Match reaction 9th April 2005
Queen's four game run came to an abrupt end at Love Street this afternoon, two goals in a three minute spell midway through the first half proved to be their downfall and third spot now appears out of reach as they've slipped seven points behind St Mirren. Nevertheless the other results favoured us and we dropped only one place in the table but it looks like it's adios to Partick Thistle who went down 2-1 to Raith Rovers and only a miracle will save them from second division football next season.

Said a frustrated Scotty after the match, "Nothing went for us today. Both our keepers had to go off injured, we hit the post, we hit the bar twice and must have had about half a dozen good scoring opportunities, even the decisions went against us, it just wasn't our day, normally David McNiven would have grabbed a hat-trick with the chances he had. Even at 2-0 down and with David Craig in goal we totally dominated the second half but just couldn't get the ball in the net. My biggest worry is losing two keepers. Richie Barnard took an elbow in the face and his injury required five stitches. Colin Scott came on but only lasted about ten minutes before having to leave the field with a ruptured muscle so he's out for the rest of the season. However we haven't lost much ground at the way the other results went but I reckon fourth place will be our target now".

Bill Goldie
Team News 7th April 2005
Queens begin their assault on third place in the league with a trip to Love Street on Saturday to face the Paisley Buddies. The team news ahead of the match is that Jim Thomson misses through suspension, his final match in a two game ban whilst the only other player likely to be missing is Alex Williams who is still suffering from the effects of a flu bug picked up last week.
Gus gunning for Queens 7th April 2005
St Mirren boss, Gus McPherson, can only boast one win in our last four meetings but will be out to remedy that at Love Street on Saturday. Said Gus, "Although we're both now safe from relegation there's still lots to play for. We're currently in third place but I realise that clubs like Airdrie, Ross County and, of course, Queen of the South are chasing us. I know we've closed the gap on Clyde who are lying second but realistically I don't really see us catching them.

"This will be our fourth meeting with Queens this season and we've yet to beat them. But every game's been close. In our first match at Dumfries Queens beat us 2-1. You went two up early on, and deservedly so, but we pulled one back late on and could well have got an equaliser--but we didn't. At Love Street you again went two ahead but we pulled back to level and should have won--but again we didn't. Our most recent clash at Palmerston in January is better forgotten. It was a poor game on a poor pitch and a 0-0 draw just about summed it up.

"Iain Scott has a good set of players down there who obviously play for him and Queens are a very hard side to beat. It's 'Scotty's' first taste of management and I think he's had a fantastic season. He got the results when it mattered and you've never really been seriously dragged down into the relegation battle. You managed it with remarkable ease and next season you'll embark on a fourth term in Division One. It's the toughest league in Scottish football, so for a 'part time' club it's a tremendous achievement.

"But we'll be taking each game as it comes and will be trying to win every one of them. We had a right run of draws a few weeks back and had difficulty finding the net. However, we won on Saturday and I'm hoping the tide's turned".

Bill Goldie
9-0 romp for Queens 7th April 2005
Queens had a convincing 9-0 victory over Threave Rovers in the Southern Counties Challenge Cup at Castle Douglas last night. Queens led 3-0 at the interval, Steven Bell (2) and Willie Gibson finding the net. New signing Chris Carr made it four before Scott Robertson and Gary Wood took the tally to six. 16-year-old Stuart McColm scored from the penalty spot to make it 7-0, Bell then completed his 'hat-trick' and Wood completed the scoring.

Bill Goldie
Queens v Threave 6th April 2005
Queens meet Threave Rovers at Castle Douglas tonight in the Southern Counties Challenge Cup. Included in the squad will be Colin Scott, Paul Burns, Willie Gibson, Brian McLaughlin and Steven Bell. Also new signing, Chris Carr and the suspended Jim Thomson. The match kicks off at 7.30 p.m.

Bill Goldie
Queens at Love Street 5th April 2005
Queens head for Paisley this Saturday, still on a 'high' following their excellent victory over Partick Thistle. It was the first time we'd netted three goals at Palmerston since we beat Cally Thistle 3-2 to go top of the table a year past in October. And it could well have been more!

Said manager Iain Scott today, "The pressure's off now! Although we're not yet mathematically 'safe', it would be a catastrophe if we went down now, but we've another big game coming up this weekend. We've still got our sights set on third place, so to keep on track we need a win, or at the very worst, a draw. I think Queens and St Mirren are two very evenly-matched sides as results this season have proved. We both try and play attractive football and the playing surface at Love Street lends itself to that.

"They're also nice people up there but I know Gus will be keen to beat us as we've had the upper-hand so far this season with a win and two draws. On our last visit there we surrendered a two-goal lead and it ended 2-2, but our defensive record has improved since then, so I'm really looking forward to Saturday.

Going back to the win over Partick Thistle 'Scotty' said, "I was pleased with every single player, they all deserved pass marks. David Craig came in for Jim Thomson and was immense in central defence alongside 'Reidy'. The pair of them completely snuffed out their 'danger man', Armand One, so much so that he was substituted at half-time. Stephen Payne, another player who hasn't featured too much this season, was voted 'Man of the Match', while David McNiven continued his scoring streak with two more well-taken goals.

"I wasn't so happy at the goal we conceded though. We backed off the player which shouldn't have happened and we spoke about that in the dressing room afterwards. However, it was great to see the goals going in and at 3-0 up I thought it was going to be five or six. But I'll content myself with three for it's well over a year since we managed that at Palmerston. I was particularly pleased for our fans who've suffered a few goal-less performances at home recently, but you've stuck by us and you were great on Saturday.

"I'm now heading down to Bolton for a couple of days but I'll be back for Wednesday night. I want to have a talk with Gary Wood--we've offered him a one-year extension to his contract and I want it all signed and sealed".

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 4th April 2005
The result from the man of the match voting from the game versus Partick Thistle on Saturday was as follows:

First - Stephen Payne - 8.34
Second - David McNiven - 8.09
Third - Eric Paton - 7.48

All other scores are on the match report link and the league table for 'player of the season' has been updated. Thanks for voting.
Goal action 2nd April 2005
Thanks to David Gow we can bring you the third goal from the match versus Partick today. Click on the link below but remember that the clip is large and will take some time to download unless you are on broadband. The best way is to right click on the link and select 'Save Target As', once downloaded you can then select 'Open' from the dialogue box that appears and the whole clip will play uninterrupted.

McNiven nets - GOAL ACTION
Match reaction 2nd April 2005
Mathematically we can still be relegated but only the most pessimistic Queens fan would talk about that now following a convincing 3-1 win over Partick Thistle this afternoon. But it looks like 'curtains' now for poor Partick with both Ross County and Hamilton winning and they now have a Herculean task on their hands to avoid the drop.

Manager Iain Scott was delighted with the result and commented, "It was the kind of performance and scoreline I was looking for today but if we'd taken our chances late in the game it could well have been 5-1. We've now surpassed the 42 point target we set ourselves so we now have our sights firmly set on third place. We're up to fourth spot and if we can beat St Mirren, the team above us, next week we can close the gap on them. Our attitude was great today for the last time we played Partick up at Firhill they really made us suffer for our defensive errors. I was pleased for David McNiven who put his car crash behind him and came out and scored two goals. That's four in his last three games and he's now back up among the leading scorers in our division again. That's the first time we've netted three goals since we beat St Johnstone at Perth early in the season and I'm also pleased at that. It's been a fantastic day for me apart from Newcastle United getting beaten 3-0 at home and having three players sent off!".

Said sponsors 'man of the match' Stephen Payne, "It's been a great day for me all round. I got to play from the start, we won 3-1 and I pick up the sponsors 'man of the match' award. They don't come any better than that. Sop many of our players were brilliant out there this afternoon so it was an honour that the sponsors chose me. I only hope my performance will help persuade the manager to offer me a contract for next season".

Eric Paton was another happy chappy and confessed, "It's not often I score with my left foot but it came at a crucial time and gave us a 2-0 'cushion' at half-time, but it doesn't really matter who scores the goals as long as the team wins and I think we deserved the three points today".

Bill Goldie
Under-19s beat Albion Rovers 2nd April 2005
Queens' Under-19s defeated Albion Rovers 2-0 in the League Cup at Bellshill yesterday, and it was 'super-sub', Martin Cunliffe who came on to notch both goals. It was not a classic but Queens gave a very professional performance.

The first half was goal-less, but mid-way through the second period Queens went ahead. A throw-in by Allan Inglis was collected by Scott Robertson who laid the ball on for Cunliffe who surged forward only to be brought down just outside the penalty box. Cunliffe took the free-kick himself and curled it neatly round the defensive wall 'Italian style' to beat the keeper inside his right-hand post.

Ross Beattie set up goal number two when he found Robertson with a good pass and the big striker laid it back for Cunliffe who netted from close range.

On Wednesday night the Under-19s will represent Queen of the South in the opening round of the Southern Counties Challenge Cup when they meet Threave Rovers at Castle-Douglas and next Sunday they face Queen's Park at Islecroft Stadium, Dalbeattie, in their fourth match in the League Cup campaign.

Bill Goldie
Team News 31st March 2005
Jim Thomson, who is suspended for two games, will miss Saturday's vital match against Partick Thistle at Palmerston. Alex Williams has been in bed with flu this week and is listed as 'doubtful'. David Craig and Stephen Payne both pulled out of training last night and it will be a late decision as to whether these two will be in the pool or not.

Bill Goldie
Chris Carr signs 31st March 2005
Queens today signed 20-year-old Chris Carr until the end of the season with a view to a longer term contract if all goes well. The ex-Newcastle United and Sheffield Wednesday full-back has been training with the squad at Palmerston for several months and goes straight into the pool for Saturday's game.

Bill Goldie

New signing
Dick in positive mood 31st March 2005
Partick Thistle manager Dick Campbell insists he'll be bringing his side to Palmerston on Saturday in a positive frame of mind. Said Dick, "We've got to win games now--draws are no good to us. I felt we played quite well in our last two games, we were solid enough in defence but not scoring goals. And if you don't score goals you don't win games, but to be fair we haven't exactly had the 'rub of the green' lately. I don't mind whether the winning goal comes in the first minute or the last minute. As long as you get three points, it's the end result that's all important. Simple as that!

"Football can be a funny game at times but I've always maintained 'it's how a team plays itself that matters most'. Even at Brechin when we were up against Celtic or Rangers in the cup I used to stress to my players 'It's how you play that matters'. You 'reap what you sow' in this game.

"We all know we must beat Queens on Saturday. We're second bottom of the table so there's 'no hiding place' now. I've got a lot of respect for Queen of the South and I know quite a few of their players from my Glebe Park days. I'm particularly friendly with Brian Reid who I know from my time at Dunfermline. He's a great lad, I've a lot of time for Brian and we still speak on the phone from time to time.

Obviously Jim Thomson will be missing on Saturday and I must admit I'm pleased at that for he's such an influential player in defence.

"What Queens have achieved in the past five years is truly amazing and they deserve a 'pat on the back'. John Connolly started the upward trend--I know John very well and he's a great guy. Now Iain Scott has 'taken over the reins', 'Scotty's' a nice lad too and as a young manager has done well in such a competitive league.

"I'm looking forward to the trip to Palmerston, but they're still 18 points to play for and we'll be fighting hard for every one of them".

Bill Goldie
Beware training sessions 31st March 2005
Training sessions at the club are fast becoming a dangerous place for Queens' backroom boys. Last week physio Kenny Crichton dislocated his thumb and this week our assistant manager Warren Pearson fell at training and shattered two fingers. They're now being held together by pins and screws and his hand is in a special framework.

Bill Goldie
Thistle at Palmerston 29th March 2005
On Saturday Queens meet Partick Thistle at Palmerston and a victory would almost certainly ensure a First Division place for us next season. It would put us 11 points clear of the Firhill side with only five matches remaining but at the same time would push Thistle another step closer to the drop. While a draw wouldn't be a bad result for Queens, manager Iain Scott doesn't see it that way. Said 'Scotty', I fully realise that a draw would be acceptable in the circumstances, but that's not what I'm after. Our target now is third place, so we'll be going all out for a victory. I reckon if we could pick up 12 points from our last six games, we wouldn't be too far away from achieving that target. However, it's a 'must win' match for Thistle and Dick Campbell will be well aware of that. They're fighting for survival so it's not going to be an easy one.

"We had a good training session at Palmerston on Friday and all the lads worked hard. We trained again yesterday at Parkhead, not Celtic Park I hasten to add, the one at Greenbrae Loaning, and we'll be back training as usual tomorrow night. Once before we missed a Saturday and our results suffered, so we must ensure that doesn't happen again.

"Jim Thomson's suspended for two games and will be a big 'miss' on Saturday for he's had an excellent season to date. However, we have options on a replacement and we'll decide on the day who'll take his place. Brian Reid has a slight groin strain at the moment so we're 'nursing' him along and I'm confident he'll play. He too has been immense this season and if it hadn't been for a two month spell out injured during November and December, I'm sure we would be higher up the table than we are at present. Just look at our 'goals against' column in the league since his return and you'll see what I mean.
"Brian reads the game well and is so difficult to play against. He's tall, experienced and has played at the highest level. He's respected both on and off the park and all the young lads look up to him in more ways than one. He's like a 'daddy' or the 'grandfather' so to speak.

"David McNiven has now resumed training following his road accident but Alex Williams has had the flu and is 'doubtful' for the weekend. Derek Lyle and Colin Scott are carrying slight injuries at present. Del has a niggling pain in his groin, similar to what 'Bowser' had at the end of last season, while Colin has a swelling behind his knee. Both require minor surgery, so we'll get them in for operations whenever we're mathematically 'safe'.

'Grandad Brian'
"Gary Wood has not yet put pen to paper but I'm not too worried. I was up at Berwick on Saturday watching them play Alloa and had a chat with him there. Gary wants to sign for us and I'm confident it will happen within the next few weeks".

Regarding the forward and defender the manager is reported to have made verbal agreements with 'Scotty' added, "Again it's on hold until we're 100% certain of being in the First Division next season. Once we're sure the picture will be clearer then".

Bill Goldie
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