T in the Ainslie Park – Brewing giants back Ronnie Swan Challenge weekend

Posted on Friday, July 11th, 2014

Iconic Scottish brewers Tennent’s have been unveiled as the sponsor of this weekend’s The Ronnie Swan Challenge Trophy tournament featuring Spartans, Dunfermline Athletic, Falkirk and Livingston.

Honorary President Ronnie Swan, aka ‘Mr Spartans’, sadly passed away in March this year aged 85.  Ronnie epitomised everything that is good about The Spartans.  You can read more about the man who held every position in the football club, from player to president, for over 50 years in the match programme, available at the gate priced just £2.

The four team tournament kicks off on Saturday at 1pm when Dunfermline play Livingston followed by Falkirk against host club Spartans at 3pm.

SFPL Division 1 side Dunfermline make the trip across the Forth Bridge to take on Championship side Livingston in the opening clash.  The Pars gaffer Jim Jefferies may require a turnstyle to be fitted to his dugout based on his match plans noted on the Club’s official website.  Meanwhile, John McGlynn’s side may feature some, or indeed all, of his 6 new signings made over the close season during the course of the weekend.

Immediately afterwards, Dougie Samuel’s Spartans take on Championship outfit Falkirk.  Bairns boss Peter Houston has brought in a host of newbies for what promises to be the most exciting Championship season ever.  For Spartans, it’s another step forwards in terms of preparations ahead of the forthcoming Lowland League campaign, as the inaugural champions look to build on last year’s success with a view to seeking promotion to SPFL 2.

In his programme notes, Samuel writes, “With the chance of winning promotion to the Scottish Football League at stake, everyone is excited and looking forward to what we hope will be a historic and memorable season.  This weekend is a chance to test ourselves against senior opposition without any real pressure as we continue to work hard to take the Club to new heights and into the ‘promised land.’”

On Sunday, the two losing teams from the opening round play-off for 3^rd/4^th place at 1pm before the Ronnie Swan Challenge Trophy Final gets underway at 3pm.

Ronnie’s family will be in attendance on Sunday and we look forward to giving them a warm welcome.  Ronnie was a true Spartan, he was a loyal Spartan, he was a great Spartan – he was Mr Spartans!

Spartans pride themselves in offering affordable football for all.  Admission prices for the weekend will be £5 Adults / £3 Concessions on both Saturday and Sunday.  That’s right – 4 games from just £6.