Scottish Football in Crisis! New Found Hope???

[Gazamataz]

May 2009


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Scotland The Brave!

It's official! The Scottish Football League (encompassing all divisions from SPL to the Juniors) has reached near breaking-point. With the collapse of Gretna a few years back, Setanta Sports getting it all wrong and Livingstone's tragic demise to the Third Division, can things get any worse?

Last week, it had emerged that no less than 14 teams from Scotland (including 3 SPL sides) were on the brink of administration. The current league structure cannot survive without these 14 teams - details on which clubs affected cannot be disclosed due to on-going legal proceedings.

June 2009.

R.I.P SPL!!!!

This issue came boiling point yesterday when it was confirmed St. Mirren and Kilmarnock had withdrawn from the SPL, with Hamilton and surprisingly, Dundee Utd sure to follow suit.

The SFA are holding crisis talks with FIFA and major Scottish investors today, with a view of rescuing the countries beloved game. This problem has been foreseen for many years, however the true extent of the damage to the game was never realised, until now.

Football is the biggest sport in the country, it keeps many children/teenagers off the streets and provides an outlet for most. Many youth academies have closed down due to the recession, so fears for the youth of tomorrow are substantial and the national side of the future.

June 2009

Football is Back!

The SFA has confirmed there will be a football league in season 09/10, but details are still being drawn out. This will come as some great news to football fans across the nation.

HBoS (Halifax-Bank of Scotland) confirmed as new investors.
Clydesdale Bank to continue to sponsor the top division.

July 2009

Scotrail has joined the revolution, rumoured to be heading the new look Challenge Cup.
Also confirmed, SFA to launch a Super Cup - competed for by the top teams in Scotland.

Finally, the full details:

All clubs are back in the Scottish league system, with those doomed clubs reassured that there will be more money in the game. Scottish Banks have realised the opportunity to be part of something huge... could it be, the SFA want to make the Scottish Football League one of the best in the world.

A revamped system including a 2-tier Premier Division, Championship (North & South), Division 1 (North & South), Division 2 (North & South) and Junior Leagues(All Districts) should make for a very interesting set-up but it doesn't end there. It's the cup competitions where things really begin to stir.

It is proposed that a new Super Cup will run this year comprising of all teams of the 2-tier Premier League. This will be in the form of the much-loved Champions League - group stages then a knock-out tournament - with considerable prize money!!

The Scottish Cup has received a major financial boost from BBC and SKY for TV rights and HBoS are providing funds for the new Challenge Cup - competed for by all clubs except Premier and Junior clubs.

There will be a Junior Cup sponsored by Baxters and will provide a solid platform for Junior teams rising through the ranks' in the same way the Challenge Cup will no doubt help prepare clubs aspiring Premier League glory.

More details on the finances will follow over the coming days.

July 2009

Money!!!!!!

SFA has signed the agreement for the new league proposal. Now let's ponder through the possibilities. Almost £200 million invested into the Scottish game each year but where is this money coming from? Mainly, bankers bonuses! An agreement between HBoS and Clydesdale has secured a fresh stream of revenue. Think back to the decades gone-by, Old Firm are the only two teams of notable success, however recently outside of the domestic campaign there has been nothing but failure on the European front. Run-away winners of the league to laughing stock of European minnows, couple that with little to no International success to comment on - the Scottish game needed change.

The difference now is that all Scottish clubs have an opportunity to make a change. With the new system, there will be money for smaller clubs to expand their facilities and larger clubs will be better equipped for a domestic challenge and possible a good run in Europe. Have days of total Old Firm domination gone forever?

Well, many predict that nothing will change but there are a few believers that in a few years time the champions of Scotland will lie out-with the city of Glasgow. We will just have to wait until the start of the new-look season.

 

[dannyck]

Great thread mate great idea absolutely brill i will definetley be following

 

[Gazamataz]

Hi, everybody who did well in reading all that! This is my first FM story, just got hold of Kris' new scotland league system ( you may recognise it!) I've made some changes of my own (mainly the prize money for cups) and intend on taking my hometown club - Glenrothes into the top division. Yes, changing the prize money so almost cheating, but consider that all the clubs in these competitions will get more money so its a level playing field.

The main idea here is to start my very own story (been reading others and they have inspired me) and to see if more money in the game will ever present Scotland with the World Cup!!

This will not be a realistic story, a decent cup run will see my bank account increase to the millions. But again, I have to win these games to get the money - not the same as giving my team loads of money in the editor.

Oh I forgot to mention that all SPL sides have B teams that can be promoted to the SPL, I've also given Glenrothes a B team for the future.

EDIT AT 16TH FEB.

Just found out on the game that B team cannot gain promotion to the SPL1, the teams below them will be entered into promotion/playoff instead. A little dissappointed with that as I'd told the editor not to do this but hey....

EDIT AT 22ND FEB.

HERE IS THE DATABASE I'M USING FOR THIS STORY!!!

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If there is any interest, I will start my story soon!

Thanks for reading

---------- Post added at 11:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:40 PM ----------


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June 2009

It is finally here!! Pre-season is now underway and Glenrothes have a new manager – former local Sunday league player G Brown. Having grown up in Glenrothes, Brown is a passionate local who can inspire the club and town, and dream of putting Glenrothes and Fife (County) on the football map.

Clearly looking delighted, he seemed eager to get going, especially given the current situation with the Football League –

As the old system has voted out in a sensational move by the SFA to end the days of cash-strapped clubs playing in cash-strapped leagues, this is a chance at a fresh start and major turning point of all Scottish clubs. Many fans are relishing the new era, where Scotland’s footballing reputation can be set right and investments made from grass roots levels all the way up to the top flight. Fantastic financial backing from the most unlikely sources seems too good to be true, many report that there will be chaos in years to come, with the country still struggling in the current recession. These views are not shared by everyone, First Minister for Scotland said,

“not only will this be the best thing for football but the country, every part of Scotland will benefit from this move, not just due to the money for the clubs. A knock-on effect could lead to better public facilities, great opportunities for youngsters and economic growth.”

He also commented on the “generous” banks “finally giving in to the greedy nature of British banking over the past few decades.” It’s clear to see that with this investment of a staggering £200 million a season, a major change is going to take place over the coming months. Let’s hope that this bold move will attract big stars back to Scotland in coming years and improve our national squad for the future.

Now back to the matter in hand, Glenrothes have a new manager and also a new league – having received an offer to join the Irn Bru North Division 1. The fact that in 1975 the club managed to win the Junior Cup and the town’s geographical position and reputation had helped. Brown stated that “ the prospect of playing for such large cup prizes is almost too good to be true, I’m sure every manager feels the same. But one thing’s for sure, we won’t be getting carried away or that, no ball has been kicked, not yet…”

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You can keep upto date with all things Glenrothes FC right here. Incredibly, new manager Brown has offered to take on the sports pages and keep the town in the know on transfer stories, squad news and much more. So keep reading.

A reporter
Reporting for the Glenrothes Gazette


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Glenrothes, founded in 1964 are a semi-professional club based in Fife. They have a decent local support and a chairman who loves the club, Steven MacLeod. With no Legends or Icons to date, the pages are fresh and ready for history to be written.

Team value – £126K
Media prediction – 11th
Average age – 23
Squad personality – fairly professional

Home Ground - Warout Stadium

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Arrived at Warout Stadium today to greet the players, great bunch of lads, facilities are poor but I didn’t expect anything different. Think… potential! Assistant Manager Ryan Russell passed on a report on the squad, there wasn’t much talent at all and would have to find more cover and strength in depth. The youth setup is poor so there are no prospects so the transfer market is the only option:

Transfer Budget: £7K
Wage Budget: £1K

These budgets were offered after a moment of pure madness, after the news report and press conference I suggested that we could challenge for the TITLE, 10 places above expectation – what was I thinking!!?!?

Season Objectives:

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Irn Bru Division 1 North – Challenge for the title
Scottish Cup – Reach the Third Round
Scotrail Challenge Cup – Reach the Second Round​

Third Round of the Scottish cup feels like a daunting task also. Challenge cup should be interesting.

Lets check out the upcoming friendly matches:

Golspie away 27th June 2009
Arbroath home 30th June 2009
GH Academy home 2nd July 2009
Newtongrange home 4th July 2009
Mansfield home 11th July 2009
Heriot-Watt Uni away 13th July 2009
Hyde home 17th July 2009

A good mixture of cannon fodder and competition, most notable – Heriot-Watt Uni, I studied there many years ago and played in their side’s reserves, not that I wasn’t good enough – I just didn’t have the time to train every week which was a shame – I missed a few good nights out!

I should be able to sort the team out and bring in a few fresh faces in time to gel for the new season ahead.

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Golspie 1 - 2 Glenrothes
Glenrothes 3 - 3 Arbroath

NEW SIGNING: Steven Page (ST) from East Stirlingshire for £425

Glenrothes 2 – 0 GH Academy
Glenrothes 1 – 1 Newtonbridge

NEW SIGNING: David Armstrong (DC) on loan from Hearts
Ben Etchels (DC) on loan from Dundee

Glenrothes 5 – 0 Mansfield

NEW SIGNING: Jordan Timmons (ST) on loan from Dundee
Harry McGregor (DL) on loan from Dunfermline
David Shaw (DR) on loan from Dundee Utd
Colin Burry (ML) on a free transfer

Heriot-Watt Uni. 0 – 0 Glenrothes

NEW SIGNING: Martin McNiff (ML/C) on loan from Dumbarton
Fraser Logan (WB, ML) on a free transfer
Mark Whatley (MC) on loan from Raith Rovers

Glenrothes 4 – 0 Hyde

SQUAD NEWS

The new boys have been playing well but just what did Brown see in these guys?? We caught up with him after the pre-season fixtures for his assessment:

"Assistant Manager Russell was a great help in finding talent, his reports lead to the capture of a few of the loan signings"

"I also contacted the local clubs, Raith, Dundee and Dunfermiline, myself as it important to target those whom have heard of the club - local lads that can make a difference. I think we are ready for the challenge that the League will throw at us."

We can confirm that Brown will give an in-depth squad assessment - including the new signings - at Christmas time (before the new transfer window opens). Keep em' peeled.

First Game of a Brand New Dream!!

Glenrothes 4 – 0 Hill of Beath 1st August 2009

Glenrothes got their campaign underway in front of the home support, with this great 4 – 0 victory. Two goals from new stars Fraser Logan and Jordan Timmons had the crowd of 115 jumping! The whole team played well, with Timmons picking up man of the match. The defence looked rock solid, Beath just had no answers.

No Point in Winning the First Game…

Rothes 1 – 1 Glenrothes 8th August 2009

A depressing day for the Glens’ fans, where a Harry McGregor own goal cancelled out Neil Jablonski’s opener. The Glenrothes veteran looked delighted to have finally broken the dead lock only for the dramatic equaliser 8mins later. This put a major downer on the away day, when points are lost this way – it’s worse than losing!

Too Much Mussel, Not Enough Hustle!!

Glenrothes 0 – 0 Musselburgh Athletic 15th August 2009

Try as they could but neither team could score thanks to defensive master-class from both teams. Glenrothes definitely had the better of the game but where restricted to only 2 shots on goal, as man of the match Paul Love was a mountain at the back for Musselburgh.

10-man Glens Defy the Odds!!

Bathgate Thistle 0 – 1 Glenrothes 22nd August 2009

Graeme Mclaren failed to score a penalty for Thistle just before half-time which could’ve lead to a very different outcome. Already underdogs for this away clash, Glens were them reduced to 10-men after Jablonski was given a red card for a soft second yellow. Step up centre-back David Armstrong, his 67min power header from a perfect Logan corner saw the Glens ****** victory from nowhere.

Take a Page out of his Book!

Glenrothes 2 – 1 Fort William 29th August 2009

New youngster Page grabbed himself two goals in the first half on his way to picking up the man of the match award. Mclean grabbed Williams’ goal with a stunning left footed volley – magical stuff. 3 points for Glenrothes though!!!


View attachment 29575 Manager's Update


A strong end to the month has left the club in 2nd place, four points behind Linlithgow Rose who still carry their 100% record. This is a great start to the season, consider how we all felt after the Rothes own goal incident, but the team turned it around thanks to some great composure and sheer determination – I had a good chat with the players and they all share the same views – we’ve won nothing yet! The victory at Bathgate Thistle showed me that this squad can handle tough situations even at this young age – they are still learning the game, just as I have just embarked on my managerial career. The battle begins now, where we must take this good form and try and go on a run as early form can prove the difference between relegation and promotion contention. I’m pleased to report that the new squad has settled well, everyone is training hard and focussed for future endeavours.

Until next time
G. Brown
Glenrothes Manager

Glenrothes Gazette

---------- Post added at 11:35 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:34 PM ----------

Spot the Difference!!

Culter 0 – 2 Glenrothes 5th September 2009

Two identical incidents provided the game with two identical spot-kicks, which proved to be the only entertainment at Crombie Park. Each on either side of half-time were the only events worth noting – nothing much else happened I’m afraid. Credit goes to McGregor and Armstrong for staying calm under pressure.


Glens Hit 3 As Dyce Want To Roll Again!

Glenrothes 3 – 1 Dyce 12th September 2009

Whatley opened the scoring with his first goal in a Glenrothes shirt, before Alexander squared things up for Dyce 10mins from half-time. Total 2nd domination saw Dyce shocked, they really could’ve been beaten by any score-line. Barnes came off the bench to regain the lead and Armstrong bagged another penalty to add to his ever increasing goal tally.

Glenrothes are now unbeaten in 7 games! Winning the last 4 league games in a row! Keep it up!

The New Hero, Armstrong – Just Like Lance, Only Without the Bike!

Strathspey 1 – 2 Glenrothes 19th September 2009

The penalty king was at it again, Armstrong scored from the spot again to make it
3 from as many games! Only he can score them, Glenrothes had a second penalty and Armstrong let fellow defender David Shaw to take the kick – he really wanted his first goal for the club. Only Shaw hit the post and Armstrong was left wondering.
Steven Page opened the scoring after 7mins and Armstrong’s pen came before half-time. Strathspey somehow grabbed an undeserving consolation goal even though the Glens backline proclaimed Thomson was offside, however the goal stood.



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EXTRA EXTRA!!

On the eve of Glenrothes’ biggest game of the season yet, Glens manager Brown will have one eye on tactics and another on the prize. It was confirmed yesterday that winners of the First Round ties will receive £100,000, with the loser receiving half at figure. The Second Round is where things heat up, a jaw-dropping £1,000,000, yes ONE MILLION POUNDS, goes to the winner. Again the loser gets half.

This is the stuff directors have been dreaming of ever since football became a business.

Lower league teams have a great chance of some huge funds coming their way. Many have likened this to winning the lottery. That maybe so but the game still needs to be played and a winner decided, initial loser prize money is £50,000, which to a club like Glenrothes could pay the current squad 3-years salary.

Too many times before have we witnessed amazing cup runs by the minnows, most notably Gretna of yesterday, reaching the Scottish Cup final only to plummeting to obscurity due to financial issues. A very sad story indeed.

So get ready, it’s cup football time and there’s money to be won!

Glenrothes Gazette

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INSIDE SCOOP

St. Mirren B V Glenrothes Scotrail Challenge Cup 1st Round 23rd September 2009
Glenrothes have been made massive favourites – 1/33 with St. Mirren B at 50/1.

We take you inside the dressing room before the game:

Brown (serious): we are favourites for this game cause we’re on a good run, but they will probably bring on Craig Dargo, he’s well experienced you can’t give him room. St. Mirren have a good squad, don’t let the ‘B’ fool you.

St. Mirren 1 – 1 Glenrothes HT

Brown (happy): good show lads, Frazer(Logan), excellent goal, just another 2 or 3 will do the trick!
Squad (motivated): laughs
Brown: Keep pressing them, don’t give the space way and get that ball into their box and Barnesy and Stevie will take of it. Ain’t that right?
Page: I’ll do it! FOR THE CASH!!!
Dressing room: Laughs!

St. Mirren 1 – 2 Glenrothes FT

“We Love You Armstrong We Do!! We Love You…”

Brown(delighted): Hear that son, they’re singing for you, who says you can only score penalties WHAT A RUN!!!! Fantastic, I’m so glad we won in the 90, we are playing on Saturday again. Great professional job guys, we in the draw!!!
Squad(singing): money, money, money!

We leave the squad to celebrate and turn our attention to match – what a game! After Logan’s 7th minute strike opened the scoring many thought they would record a heavy victory but the St. Mirren B fought back almost instantly, on 12mins. The rest of the half followed the same counter-attacking flow but the keepers were both on fire. On into the second half and the Glens were struggling, Dargo was proving a tough striker for Armstrong to handle. But as the back line pushed up and started to dominate the game, yes oh yes Armstrong the penalty hero, not only netting his second header of the season and fifth goal overall but winning the game for the Glens in the dying minutes and proving to be an all round goal machine! He surely deserved his man of the match award!


Glens Win Again, Injury Woe For Hero Etchels.

Glenrothes 1 – 0 Lochee Utd 26th September 2009

Page may have scored but Dundee loanee Ben Etchels will be the one remembered. He sustained injury whilst challenging for the ball in a situation where Lochee should have scored. They didn’t but Etchels had to come off after 35 mins and hadn’t put a foot wrong all game, played excellently but was unlucky, he may miss the Glens upcoming Challenge Cup tie.

View attachment 29575 Manager's Update

I hope everyone is enjoying the team performance! Because someone has too!
We are trying to stay grounded at the club, you can’t win trophies and promotion in 2 months, the road is long. I’m glad to report that Etchels injury is not a big problem just some bruising on the ribs, we are hoping that he’ll be back for the cup game coming up, draw this afternoon!!

G. Brown

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[Dan]

This is great mate! Something different for a change! Keep up the good work!

 

[DRPEPPER]

something different, best of luck

 

[Gazamataz]

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EXTRA EXTRA!! 1st October 2009

The new football season is still only 2 months young, but already Glenrothes are being touted as serious challengers. Many fans are enjoying the teams’ performance – the Glens are unbeaten so far, still in with a shout at some serious riches in the Challenge cup and only one point behind League leaders Linlithgow Rose, who surrendered their unbeaten run earlier in the month.

Steven Page, Fraser Logan and David Armstrong have been in inspiring form – even the center-back is getting the goals! Logan and Page are masters of the early goal which has gone a long way to protecting this great run of form. Couple that with solid performances by keeper Donald and centre-backs, Armstrong and Etchels, have also seen the Glens keep five clean sheets so far this season and they haven’t conceded more than one goal in any other competitive match.

Many have been praising the new signings, the manager claimed that:

“it’s not difficult to stand out in the standard that the club was in at the beginning of July, any new signing from the Leagues above have the potential to do great things here this season, but it’s great to see that the team is doing well, we don’t have the view that anyone player is better – they all have their roles and duties and come the end of the season, every player at this club will have played some part in this fantastic season.”

A look ahead to October – 7 games coming up including the Second round cup tie at home to Championship side Auchinleck Talbot and the third round tie also should Glenrothes make it through. On the last day of the month, Glenrothes face a tricky tie at Bonnyrigg Rise Athletic, they were early favourites for the title – currently positioned in the promotion playoff places.


Glenrothes Gazette





October Results

East End 1 – 5 Glenrothes 3rd October 2009

Dalglish(pen17) – Page(4) McNiff( 6) Logan(41) Fortune(45+2, 73)

Auchinleck (3) 0 – 0 (5) p Glenrothes 7th October 2009 Challenge Cup

Glenrothes 2 – 1 Camelon 10th October 2009

McNiff (27) Page(32) – Sinclar(74)

Kelty Hearts 0 – 0 Glenrothes 17th October 2009

Glenrothes 2 – 0 Bo’ness Utd 24th October 2009

Logan(27) Fortune(81)

Glenrothes 2 – 0 Wick Academy 28th October 2009 Challenge cup

Logan(pen 28) Timmons(66)

Bonnyrigg Rose 1 – 2 Glenrothes 31st October 2009

Howat(14) – Mcgregor (pen 67) Logan(90)


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Firstly, congratulations to the Glenrothes team – they will be delighted to be into the Fourth Round of the Challenge Cup. Having already secured over £3 million in prize money, a victory in the next round would effectively double that figure!

Another point of celebration, Manager Brown has picked the Manager of the Month Award for October! He will collect his trophy at next home game – against Banks O’Dee on the 7th November. Well done!

Money aside, another very strong month for the Glens – fans could nit-pick at the teams failed efforts to score at Kelty Hearts but otherwise the fans have had plenty to cheer about. Kicking off the month with a 5-goal haul against East End, the edgy penalty thriller against Auchinleck culminated in Glenrothes glory and an impressive 7 goals between Fortune and Logan have propelled Glenrothes to the top of the League – one point ahead of Linlithgow.

Glenrothes are now unbeaten in 17 games across all competitions – which is a new club record that goes up by each game – and many fans are dreaming of promotion already.

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[Gazamataz]

November Results

Glenrothes 2 – 0 Banks O’Dee 7th November 2009

Timmons(72) Logan(pen 86)

Before the match Brown picked up his award and he credited the team with the award saying it should be team of the month award. His players responded with another home victory. McNiff picked up man of the match for his excellent midfield display and assisted Timmons’ goal. Logan keeps up his scoring form with the penalty.

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INSIDE SCOOP 14th November 2009

The Glens’ next challenge comes in the form of title challengers Linlithgow Rose. Glenrothes currently lie one point ahead at the top of the table, but bookmakers have Linlithgow clear favourites with their home advantage and current form. If Glenrothes are to take anything out of this match, the manager will have to organise his defence to deal with the home sides great attacking force of Maclennan and Donnelly.

Inside the dressing room before the game:

Brown: A draw here will do lads, a win would be great! Just go out there stay tight at the back, Armstrong sit deep and clear everything that comes near you!

Linlithgow Rose 0 – 0 Glenrothes HT

Brown: I have you guys as the better team just keep it up! A few more chances and you can do it!
Page: There defense is rough!
Brown: Don’t let them bully you!

Linlithgow Rose 2 – 0 Glenrothes FT

Young (59) McAuiliffe (pen 70)

Brown: Unlucky lads, an even game all round – except they took a few chances, we didn’t! Don’t let it get you down, we’ll get revenge next time out back home!!!

Glenrothes 2 – 1 Rothes 21st November 2009

Shaw(24) Page(82) – Donald OG(12)

Glenrothes 2 – 0 St. Ternan 28th November 2009

Barnes(14) Fortune(90)

 

[Gazamataz]

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3 wins out of 4. Losing top position to Linlithgow – this league is going to be tough! Linlithgow have just shown the Glen’s fans how it’s done. They take top spot back after a 2 – 0 home victory over the Glens. Manager, Brown, was reportedly unhappy with losing the unbeaten run but commented on losing football matches as great learning experience. “They will bounce back stronger than ever! Having not been defeated until now, the next game will be a test of character.”

The Glen’s are still comfortably in with a shout at promotion, but many fear that the bubble has burst and down the table they go. Hoping that’s not the case, good luck to the club – let’s hope they return to winning ways soon.

And it’s finally Scottish Cup time!!

The Glens have a very tricky 2nd round tie away to Greenock Morton on the 12th December. Glenrothes missed the first round after a good cup in the challenge cup offered the opportunity to skip the round. Morton are currently in the playoff places in the Premier League Tier 2 and are heavy favourites for the clash.

Glenrothes Gazette




December Results

Hill of Beath 0 - 1 Glenrothes 5th December 2009

Barnes(55)

Morton 4 – 0 Glenrothes 12th December 2009 Scottish Cup

Jenkins(13) McGuffie(26) Gomez(32) Grady(44)

Allan McCallum sent off (70) for Glenrothes

Musselburgh Athletic 0 – 0 Glenrothes 16th December 2009

Glenrothes 2 – 0 Bathgate Thistle 26th December 2009

Timmons(15) Etchels(20)

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December saw Glenrothes top the league once again after a few away draws by Linlithgow let the Glens back in. The Glen’s also appeared in the Scottish Cup where Morton completely outclassed them in the first half, the second half performance was better but the game was already over. Still £1,000,000 in loser prize money is not too shabby!

Looking ahead to January, which may prove to be the biggest month in the clubs history to date, there are 3 Challenge cup ties. Yes, three! By the end of the month, the two finalist will be decided and Glenrothes are still in the hunt for the silverware!

Fourth Round draw provided Glenrothes with an away trip to Nairn County – Championship south side. Should the Glens win, their next match will be the Quarter-final! Then one week later, the Semi-finals are to be played. Having already won some impressive prize money, January could see Glenrothes having a major bank balance and the welcome headache of what to do with such funds. Watch this space.

Glenrothes Gazette

January Results

Fort William 1 – 0 Glenrothes 2nd January 2010

Murdoch (60)

Armstrong sent off (79) for Glenrothes

Nairn County 1 – 2 Glenrothes 6th January 2010 Challenge Cup 4th Round

Coakley (pen 27) – Timmons (15, 19)

Albion Rovers 0 – 1 Glenrothes 13th January 2010 Challenge Cup Quarter-final

Fortune (84)

Dyce 0 – 1 Glenrothes 16th January 2010

Graham (45)

Glenrothes 0 – 1 Rangers B 20th January 2010 Challenge Cup Semi-final

Campbell (72)

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UNLUCKY… BUT RICH!

In a dramatic game at Hampden Park Glenrothes lose out on a place in the Final to Rangers B. It was a close fought battle with Rangers B edging it in the end thanks to Campbell.

With Glenrothes now out of both cup competitions after a surprise run in the challenge cup, their finances have greatly improved. Speculation has led to rumours of major developments at Warout Stadium, although nothing official has to light yet but the £4 MILLION in loser prize money has the fans going crazy. Remember people, like everything else, developments take time!

Good luck to Rangers B and to Linlithgow Rose – who also made it to the final!

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[Gazamataz]

ok, sorry for the lack in screenshots and league tables etc. When I started writing this story I had already played upto this point. So the league table would've been wrong and players stats etc etc.

Now that I've caught up - I will post monthly results as and when they happen BUT....

...ONLY IF THERE ARE PEOPLE READING!!!
I don't see the point in all this effort if no-one is going to read it!
Also any suggestions to improve it are always welcome, as this is my first attempt at a story.

Thanks

 

[Albayr]

Interesting idea mate. Looking forward to seeing how things go.

 

[Gazamataz]

View attachment 30074EXTRA EXTRA!!

We are nearing the end of January and Glenrothes have finished their mega-money cup games for the season, but just what difference has it made to their bank balance? Almost £20 million differences:

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Many teams enjoying cup run this season could a development frenzy next season. Of course there are the sceptics out there but Alex Ferguson – Scotland’s greatest manager – see it as a major development in world football.

“Scotland will see great changes over the coming years, top teams will have the money to chase European glory and the small teams will have the resources to improve their facilities and ultimately improve their squads.

Also, SFA chief Gordon Smith had this to add:

“It’s looking great so far, some exciting cup games have attracted big audiences from around the globe. We are already in talks into secure this level of funding for years to come – BBC and SKY are entering a bidding war for these cup games.”

SKY are promoting these multi-million pound games in the same manner as Prizefighter – football’s answer to British Boxing’s mega-rich competition where boxers compete for big cash prizes and reputation.

BBC are also in talks over launching a new sports dedicated channel – which could be a flagship for all of Scottish Football’s cup competitions.
There is also news from the government that the economy is on the mend, more money in football has lead to an increase of employment across the nation. Here we check the state of Scottish Football as we approach the final months of the season:

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Here, you will see something strange - Aberdeen ABOVE Rangers, Falkirk close behind?? Well Aberdeen's rise to the 2nd richest club in Scotland was mainly to due to their sensational win against Celtic to lift the first ever Scottish Super Cup! Also scooping one of the biggest pay days in football - £50,000,000!!

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Look out for the end of season special - which will have the run down of all competitions and the roads to glory!!

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[AussieOchoa]

This is amazing mate, keep going, best story I've read so far!

 

[Gazamataz]

Last Fixture of January:

Glenrothes 0 - 1 Strathspey Thistle 23rd January 2010

Kelly (16)

TEAM NEWS

Here is the current Glenrothes first team line-up - finally we see after a new boys have arrived:

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Biggest signing??

Has to be international keeper:

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So let's take a look at all Glenrothes' transfers this season:

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With promotion looking like a strong possibility, many fans fear the team will not be able to cope with all the loan signings gone. One thing's for sure, there should be money available next season - I wouldn't worry too much if I was a Glen's fan!!

Glenrothes Gazette

February Results

Glenrothes 4 - 0 Culter 6th February 2010

Timmons(32, 48, 87)Logan(45+2)

Lochee Utd 1 - 2 Glenrothes 13th February 2010

Wai Ho(20) - McNiff(64) Graham (72)

Glenrothes 2 - 1 East End 27th February 2010

Graham(23) Gray(30) - Darrow(41)

After a solid February, Glenrothes have returned to the top:

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March Results

Camelon 0 - 2 Glenrothes 6th March 2010

Timmons(19) Gray(72)

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EXTRA EXTRA!!

Following Linlithgow's slip-up, Glenrothes are now 5 points clear with only 6 games remaining! Although welcome news, now Brown's squad must focus and get the job done!

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Glenrothes Gazette


Glenrothes 1 - 1 Kelty Hearts 20th March 2010

Hill OG (87) - Sim(72)

Bo'ness Utd 0 - 3 Glenrothes 27th March 2010

Timmons (6 ) Graham (20,41)

April Results

Glenrothes 1 - 0 Bonnyrigg Rose 10th April 2010

Timmons (90+2)

Banks O'Dee 0 - 2 Glenrothes 17th April 2010

Timmons(44) Gray (68)

May Results

St. Ternan 0 - 3 Glenrothes 1st May 2010

Graham(1, 25) Timmons (29)

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It has come down to it!!! The last game of the season will decide who will be crowned the North Division 1 Champions - Linlithgow or Glenrothes? Having already defeated Glenrothes this season, Linlithgow will look for a repeat performance if they are to ****** the title from the Glen's. One thing is certain, it will be an almighty clash!!

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[UKMACKIE]

Interesting Idea keep it going. I'm quite interesting to see how East Kilbride Thistle are doing. How does the players work is the actual Glenrothes players or regens or no squad atol?

 

[Gazamataz]

I'm sure its just regens to start with - there are like 4 or 5 players that are always there when you start - but the rest are regens.

Sorry to say that E.K Thistle were relegated from Div1 south to div 2 in the first season - not all doom and gloom - a decent cup run in season 2 and they can bounce back - might be tricky to do it straight away - they will have to play against loads of B teams.

 

[Gazamataz]

FINAL MATCH!

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The town of Glenrothes will be celebrating for some time to come after this exciting game. Both side had the lead at one point but Glenrothes triumphed to end 2009/2010 season as Division One Champions!!!!

Next season will bring Championship sides to Warout Stadium, it will be a test but if anyone can keep them in that division - it's Brown!!

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[christophermcl]

Great thread mate Well done and keep it up (H)

 

[Gazamataz]

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End of Season 09/10 Summary

SPL1 (Scottish) Champions : Celtic : 2nd : Rangers 3rd : Hearts
SPL2 Champions :Raith Rovers(promoted to SPL1)
North Championship Winner : Forfar (promoted to SPL2)
South Championship Winner : Livingston (promoted SPL2)
North Division 1 Champions : Glenrothes (promoted to Championship)
South Division 1 Champions : Beith (promoted to Championship)
North Division 2 Champions : Dundee Utd B (promoted to Division 1)
South Division 2 Champions : Celtic B (promoted to Division 1)

Also promoted to:

SPL1 – Ross County, Queen of the South
SPL2 – Montrose, Berwick
Championship – Clydebank, Linlithgow Rose, Lochee Utd, Musselburgh
Division 1 – Aberdeen B, St Johnstone B, St Mirren B, Hamilton B
Division 2 – ( from Juniors) – Deveronside, Montrose Roselea, Kinoull, Leith, Shotts BA, Vale of Leven, Newtongrange, Gretna 2008

Also relegated to:

SPL2 – Partick Thistle, Dunfermiline, Inverness CT
Championship – Brechin, Peterhead, Cowdenbeath, Stenhousemiur
Division 1 – Lossiemouth, Forres Mechanics, Wick Academy, Civil Service, Edinburgh City, Threave Rovers
Division 2 – East End, Dyce, Fort William, Bellshill, E.K Thistle, Whitletts Vics
Juniors – Hillhead, Hall Russell Utd, Sunnybank, Hermes, Tynecastle, Dalry Thistle, Selkirk, Lothian Thistle

Cup Winners

Scottish Cup Winners – Hibernian
Scottish Super Cup Winners – Aberdeen
Challenge Cup Winners – Rangers B
Junior Cup Winners - Steelend Vics

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[Gazamataz]

View attachment 30107

Pre-Season is Here!

Having secured promotion and the league title last season, Glenrothes were promoted to the Irn Bru South Championship. Question were raise as to why Glenrothes were entered into the Southern league when they were promoted from the North division. This is due to border changes as the leagues increase in quality.

The SFA realised that when the leagues were formed, there weren’t enough teams of appropriate quality, so the division borders were expanded. Couple that with two teams from the North Division 1 secured promotion in the playoffs against the south.

Either way fans are still delighted with the progress, even if it means travelling further for away games. Let’s hope the Glen’s supporters will continue to follow their team on this incredible journey.

Glenrothes Gazette

View attachment 30107Manager’s Update

What a year it has been!! I’m enjoying the success with the club and relishing the prospect of the new challenge ahead. There is some bad news to report – with all the loan signings leaving at the end of the season, the club cannot sign any new players until the 1st July. The youth player will be relied upon for the first few pre-season games. I tell you this as I hope you won’t expect too much from the team in these games.

Good news on the other hand, it that the board for going to allow expension at the club!

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Although they are still developing plans, the last seasons performance has allowed this process to begin.

Board objectives:

Irn Bru Championship (South) – Safe mid-table finish
Scottish Cup – Reach Fourth Round
Challenge Cup – Reach Fourth Round

Transfer Budget - £3.7 million
Wage Budget - £67K

I will be bringing in no less then 7 new coaches and hopefully a hat-full of good signings – only time will tell!

Transfer Round–up soon along with preseason review.

G. Brown

Glenrothes Gazette



Pre-season Results
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Not a great start to the preseason campaign, only signing Rory Loy from Rangers has played well recently since joining for £200,000. The defeat to dunfermline was simply embarrassing to say the least. However some fans can understand the current situation with the squad, they are all preying for some big signings soon!

Glenrothes Gazette

 

[Gazamataz]

View attachment 30112

It's Experience That Matters!
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Russell Anderson has signed on a free transfer from Sunderland!!! He is getting on in his career, but the experienced defender knows the Scottish game well - having previously played and captained reigning Super Cup Champions Aberdeen.

The Revolution Begins!!!!

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Jeremy Helan has also signed a contract at Warout Stadium!

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Liverpool youngster Duran, has also joined

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Arsenal's young Brazilian has joined on a loan deal until the end of the season

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Thomson has come through the youth system at Hearts and now has the opportunity at regular first team football - he looks set to become a great player for the Glens for years to come - seeing as he's signed a contract!

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Man Utd's Itailian youngster is also heading to Glenrothes on a season-long loan deal.

Here is a list of all players who will be strutting their stuff around Warout Stadium:

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And also the current report for the squad of players, the assistant Russell has made his recommendations:

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I'm sure every Glenrothes fan is beeming right now! We will continue to monitor their progress in the remaining preseason fixtures in build up to the beginning of the "Revolution."

Glenrothes Gazette