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June 2002
(26/6/02)
Cliftonhill Face-Lift
Rovers' groundsman Hugh McBride has this week largely
forsaken work on his precious pitch to do some much-needed tidying up on the
perimeter. With the aid of an industrial strimmer, Hugh has been cutting
through the overgrown areas of the ground - particularly behind the goals - resulting
in an altogether neater appearance.
Cliftonhill takes shape for the new season
Click to enlarge
McStay In Charge
Rovers' Assistant Manager Jock McStay was today in optimistic mood about
the new season. "I can't wait for it to start", he said, "and
I'm sure that we have exciting times ahead of us." In spite of this, and
a hint than an ex-Premier League player was in the sights, McStay was unable
to be more specific about who might be filling the gaps created by the
departure of just so many of last season's side. When boss Peter Hetherston
returns from holiday at the end of the week, things should begin to happen and
we hope to be the first to give you some specific information.
Assistant manager Jock McStay looks out on his field of
dreams
Click to enlarge
Dublin Details Nearly Complete
With only confirmation of the actual matches awaited, Rovers' trip to
Dublin on 19th/22nd July is fast approaching. Games against Dublin City and
Home Farm for both first team and youths will take place during the
weekend.
(21/6/02)
McKenzie Riddle
News reaches us from an unimpeachable source that former Rovers' midfielder
Jamie McKenzie has not, as previously thought, signed for Stenhousemuir, but
has instead joined Ayrshire side Cumnock Juniors. McKenzie, a part-time worker
at Safeway in Airdrie, was presumed a certainty to join John McVeigh at
Ochilview, but it could be that the well-known ability of the top junior
outfits to pay excellent signing-on fees has triumphed on this occasion.
No "Official" Board Meeting
Last night's weekly meeting of the Cliftonhill hierarchy failed to reach a
quorum and was therefore simply an unstructured chat which would undoubtedly
centre round the situation regarding those elected to and not elected to the
Third Division.
(20/6/02)
Harty Off To Stenny
Rovers' striker Martin Harty, scorer of six goals in 26 + 4 appearances
last term, has left Cliftonhill and followed former boss John McVeigh to
Stenhousemuir where he joins up with a fair number of his colleagues from
the last campaign.
Reigart OK Again
Although there was little doubt that shirt sponsors Reigart Demolition
would sign-up for another season with their name on the jerseys, they have now
formally agreed to do so. Rovers - and their fans - are indebted to the Reilly
family for their support in this matter.
(19/6/02)
New Year "Derby"
Following yesterday's shock election result, Rovers have moved quickly in
an effort to transfer the scheduled Ne'erday match away to newcomers
Gretna to a more suitable date. It may be however, that a First of
January match would suit the southerners who may feel that they would
attract a large crowd on a holiday. We await their response with interest.
Peat In The Advertiser
The second part of the interview with former Airdrie chairman George Peat
- in today's "Advertiser" - contains some references which will be
of interest to Rovers' supporters, particularly in relation to
groundsharing.
McMullan Rethink
We recently posted information about striker Ryan McMullan, stating
that he had refused terms and would be placed on the transfer list. We can now
reveal that the club and the youngster have restarted negotiations and that
the likely outcome is that he will be wearing the yellow jersey next season.
(18/6/02)
Gretna Win Vote
Airdrie United lost the vote for
admission to the SFL today to Gretna of the English Unibond League. Airdrie
were always seen as hot favourites (in this part of the country anyway) but
Gretna were second favourite having just missed out in the last vote when
Peterhead and Elgin City gained admission a couple of years ago.
Hetherston Problem
Due to illness in his family, Rovers' manager Peter Hetherston has
been forced to take time off work and suspend his personal search for players
to bolster his squad. However, as Jock McStay, his new assistant, has taken
over that task in the short term, fans should not think that nothing is being
done. We still hope to have some positive information for you in a few days.
(17/6/02)
The Big Vote
Tomorrow (Tuesday) is the day we find
out who'll be joining the 3rd division next season. It seems accepted that
Airdrie United will be the ones but the others especially Gretna, Cove Rangers
and Huntly will also fancy their chances.
McMullan On Way Out?
Ryan McMullan, who made 35 appearances (including 21 as substitute)
last term, has rejected Rovers' offer for the new season and has been placed
on the transfer list. McMullan, reverting by choice to being a part-timer, was
reportedly seeking at least the same wages as he enjoyed last season as a
full-timer, a demand Rovers were naturally not prepared to meet. He
will allegedly now operate on a monthly-contract basis, presumably hoping that
someone will come along to whisk him to better things. Our
understanding of the new transfer system is that the minimum contract length
is 1 year (a whole year not just the season). Also, if he doesn't sign for
somebody by the end of August he'd have to wait till the next transfer window
in January.
(15/6/02)
Airdrie At New Broomfield
In spite of suggestions to the contrary, today's papers quote Airdrie
United as saying that, if elected, they will play their home matches at New
Broomfield. This would seem to be the definitive news which puts an end to
the notion that they will be sharing Cliftonhill with Rovers. The Record's
Tony Haggerty - someone who usually has a soft spot for Rovers - falls into
the old trap of hitting at an easy target by referring to "ramshackle
Cliftonhill". Shame on you, Tony. It's just so unnecessary.
Shop Items Upgraded
General Manager John Reynolds reports that he has been in negotiation with
suppliers and that a few new Rovers' souvenirs will be available in
the new season. One of the revamped items is likely to be a scarf, yellow on
one side and red on the other, with "Albion Rovers" in black on both
sides. New club pennants are also likely to be available.
(14/6/02)
Fahey's Appeal
Rovers' goalkeeper Chris Fahey, with his Commercial Department hat
on, has asked us to publicise the advertising and sponsorship
opportunities available for the coming season. Top price for an advert in
the Match Programme is £300 for a full page. That guarantees the advertiser
a minimum of eighteen appearances in a print run of around 250
each time, with the number likely to rise depending upon favourable draws in
the three cup competitions. Also available, of course, are part-page
adverts which range in size down to one-ninth of a page at £60 for the
season.
Trackside advertising is being revamped this time around and rather than
the traditional fixed boards, new subscribers will have their names in
the form of banners. Each banner will remain the property of the
advertiser, needing only to be placed trackside for home matches, allowing
the advertiser to have the flexibility of having the banner at
other locations, ie outside his premises, at all other times. At only £200,
this method of reaching the public represents great value. Even better is
the opportunity to have a board/banner placed at the front of the stadium,
there being visible to the many thousands who pass the site every day. This
option, at £650, must surely appeal to some high-profile local companies.
When compared with the cost of placing one insignificant advert in a
newspaper, any of the above opportunities makes sound economic sense.
For a "hands-on" promotional experience, Match Sponsorship
is hard to beat. The basic package, which includes Boardroom hospitality,
complimentary programmes (in which there will be a full-page advertisement)
and the opportunity to choose the Man-of-the-Match is a reasonable £250 for
six persons, ie just over £40 per head. Even for just two
persons, the total cost is just £90. Upgrading, in the form of a
sponsorship meal package is also available. This option includes drinks and
a superb meal at Guidi's Trattoria just a few hundred yards from
Cliftonhill. Contact Chris for details on this one.
As Rovers are youth-orientated and committed to giving local youngsters
the chance to make a career in professional football, the financial
assistance of companies in the immediate area. The packages as outlined
above are not only obviously beneficial to the club but can also help those
businesses who become associated with Albion Rovers FC.
No Move On New Broomfield
Although last week we had it on good authority that a significant move
toward the acquisition of New Broomfield was on the cards, we have
to report that the party reportedly behind the bid for the stadium has been
lying low and that the move has simply failed to develop.
"New Member" Submission
The submissions by those clubs seeking election to the Third Division were
examined by Rovers' Board last night and we understand that presentation
by Airdrie United was less impressive that some of the others. However,
many of the other contenders have previous experience in this field, and
it might be expected that their paper bids would be more polished.
In spite of this, can any of them really be considered serious rivals for the
vacancy? The big vote takes place on Tuesday 18th June.
Your Number's Down!
During the coming season and for the first time ever, Rovers, and their
rivals in the lower divisions, will have numbers on their shorts as well as
jerseys This move, the origins of which we think probably lie with
Celtic first having done so a number of years ago, will undoubtedly assist
with the recognition of players under certain circumstances. Incidentally,
it's now 99% certain that Reigart Demolition will be jersey sponsors for a
second year.
Signings
In spite of previous suggestions, Manager Peter Hetherston was today unable
to identify any "new" signings for the club, confirming only that
out-of-contract Todd Lumsden and Scott Shearer of the previous squad have now
formally re-signed and that former St. Mirren and Airdrie midfielder James
Dick has also been fixed-up. Next week will surely see the announcement
of at least the first of the required new players.
(13/6/02)
Forthbank First!
The SFL Fixture List, released today, gives Rovers the comfortably
short journey to Stirling for their opening match of the new season on
Saturday 3rd August. As the Cliftonhill lads won their final away match
by 3-0 at the Forthbank ground last season, a similar result this time around
would do. One week later sees the first home fixture of the season when
Peterhead come visiting Cliftonhill, and after a trip to Firs Park to meet
East Stirlingshire, we have another away fixture against that team currently
called New Member. We don't need to spell out what an interesting match
that could be! (see Fixtures
for the whole list).
It's interesting to note that the traditional
derby game at new year has us away to "New Member". Have Airdrie
United been pencilled in already? The blank Saturday's are due to Scotland
games.
Signings Imminent
Peter Hetherston is just awaiting a couple of new players to put pen to
paper for the new season. It could be that one or more names will be made
public tomorrow. Watch this space!
(12/6/02)
Picasso Wanted!
Well, not exactly, but if somewhere out there is a dab hand with a
four-inch paint brush, then Rovers would like to hear from you. The task?
Simple. It's to give the manager's office a coat of paint. There's even talk
of whoever volunteers being paid for the job, and that's something you don't
often hear around Cliftonhill! It could be worth a free Season Ticket to
the right person, so how about it? Contact John Reynolds at the club.
Season Tickets
These valuable briefs are being collected from the printers today and -
barring a last-minute problem - will be available from tomorrow. Give JR a
call to confirm your interest.
(11/6/02)
McStay Back At Rovers!
Jock McStay, a stalwart defender for Rovers a couple of seasons ago, is set
to return to Cliftonhill as assistant to manager Peter Hetherston. Although
the current Glenafton boss has formally to sign on the dotted line, that is
just a formality and he is certain to be in the home dug-out for the next
campaign. With a wealth of experience at a variety of levels, McStay seems the
ideal man to help steer Rovers towards higher things.
Signing News
We can now confirm that Todd Lumsden and Scott Shearer have joined up for
another season, and that Charles (apparently not "Charlie", if you
don't mind) McLean is likely to be wearing the newly-designed strip come
August. Former St. Mirren and Airdrie midfielder James Dick has also been
training at Cliftonhill and it would be absolutely no surprise if he were
to join the squad. Boss Hetherston indicates that the signing of players will
gain momentum from now on, and expects to make further announcements at the
end of the week.
Pitch Invasion
Rovers' pitch was today "invaded" by a couple of machines
specifically designed to assist towards preparing the surface for next season. It's
good to see that it's not being neglected and that the necessary care and
attention is being lavished on it.
Silky Plays Again!
Although manager Peter Hetherston has officially hung up his boots as far
as the senior game is concerned, he still has the urge to kick a ball in a
competitive match, as evinced by him turning out last Saturday for the
Four Aces against the Eagle Inn in a charity match. He tells us that his team
won 3-2 and that he laid on all the goals - modest as ever!
(09/6/02)
Rovers' Appeal
Rovers' director Eddie Hagerty today issued an appeal aimed at people who
might be willing to go to Cliftonhill (virtually at anytime) to do a bit of
renovation to the old stadium during the close season. Although there would be
work for almost any tradesman, assistance from unskilled fans would
also be appreciated. Tuesday and Thursday evenings would seem to be the
best times, but as there is someone around at the club for most of every day,
don't think nights are the only time. Intending volunteers should contact
John Reynolds at the club on 606334.
(08/6/02)
Please click HERE to read an interview we have
had with Peter "Silky" Hetherston.
Scout Hetherston
Rovers' boss Peter Hetherston was today at Adamslie Park, Kirkintilloch to
sees the juniors' Cup Winners Cup Final. Let's hope he saw something/someone
of interest who might do a job at Cliftonhill next season.
(07/6/02)
Season Ticket Prices Confirmed
Following last night's Board meeting, there is good news for potential
purchasers of Season Tickets in that the top price is just £90 (instead of
the £100 forecast), with concessions at £50. Printing of these tickets is
now complete and they will be available from next Thursday, 13th May.
Single admission prices for the season are pegged at £8/£4.
The Start - And Finish
The new season will begin on Saturday 3rd August and end on Saturday 10th
May next year. The first round of the Bells Challenge Cup will be on
Tuesday 6th August with initial succeeding rounds a week later. CIS Cup
matches start in the second week in September.
Pre-Season Tour
Arrangements for the pre-season visit to Eire are progressing nicely and it
looks as if the opposition will be provided by Dublin City and Home Farm.
Jimmy Lindsay is awaiting confirmation on one or two points and is also
heavily involved in the fairly complicated transport arrangements.
(06/6/02)
Strip OK - At Last!
Following all the doubts which surrounded the legality of the choice of
change/away strip design, we can now reveal that the SFL has withdrawn
objections to the strip being the same basic design as the first choice. So,
then, the two-blue version pictured on this site will be worn as
appropriate next season.
New Broomfield - Another Twist?
We understand that within the next few days there could be a surprise move
in association with the current mystery surrounding New Broomfield. The important
development - nothing to do with Rovers - could pave the way for the stadium
to become the property of an unnamed party and might just have an effect on
any future groundsharing plans.
Training Begins
New Rovers' boss Peter Hetherston today took charge of the first training
session since his appointment. The session, informal to a degree, allowed
the manager to have a look at most of his current signings (few as they are)
and assess one or two other potential acquisitions.
(05/6/02)
Hetherston Interview
Within the next couple of days we hope to be able to publish the text of an
interview with new Rovers' manager, Peter Hetherston. The answers to our
questions should give an insight into his thoughts, hopes and aspirations for
the new season.
Backsliding Quidders!
Having now had the opportunity to study the updated list, it would
appear that the following sponsors to this scheme have been very slow in
meeting their obligations. Admittedly, some of those listed have paid some of
their money, but the remainder would seem to be outstanding.
(04/6/02)
Should the new Airdrie be elected to the league in a fortnight and be
playing their matches at Cliftonhill, Rovers will be making several
modernising structural changes to the interior of the stand. As and when
things develop, we'll let you have the details.
Season Tickets
Although still to be formally ratified, season ticket prices for the new
season will be £100/£60 respectively for adults/the rest. The tickets
are just about to be printed and should be available by 20th June. As far as
we're aware kids tickets will still be free. Check with John Reynolds about
then for the latest situation.
List Of Frees
The SFL's official list of free transfers from all its member clubs
was issued today. Unsurprisingly, it's quite a substantial volume which
contains many well-known names. Manager Peter Hetherston is certainly one
interested reader!
Strip Problem - Again!
In spite of the fact that our change/away strip initially seemed to meet
with the approval of the SFL, it now appears that there could be a problem.
Apparently the authorities have decreed that not only should the second stripe
comprise different colours to the registered first choice strip, but that it
should be of a different design. As you'll see from the pictures on this site,
the design is exactly the same in both cases, so it might be back to the
drawing board yet again. Rovers are trying to persuade the League that their
choice is reasonable, but we shall have to await the outcome of their
deliberations.
(03/6/02)
Big Ally
One of yesterday's papers had an article about
players who've left football due to financial cutbacks at their clubs. One of
those mentioned was Ally Graham (a.k.a. Messiah to some Rovers supporters).
Apparently he is now running a petrol station and is on the look out for a
part-time playing position. Whether "Silky" Hetherston is interested
remains to be seen but some of us fans wouldn't be averse to seeing the big man
back in a Rovers jersey and bagging a few goals. He was with Clydebank last
season along with other former Rovers Neilly McGowan and Jered Stirling, who are
also available due to the Bankies current financial woes.
Ally (who turns 36 in August) played in
excess of 100 game for Rovers from 1987/88 to 1989/90 and was a major asset in
our 2nd division championship winning side. He returned to Cliftonhill in 1997
for a couple of games as trialist and has played for nine different clubs (on
two occasions at three of them).
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