Lowland League: Subo praises youth as Spartans set out stall to stifle Students

Posted on Friday, January 25th, 2019

The Spartans welcome Edinburgh University to Ainslie Park on Saturday, looking to build on last weekend’s cup victory and propel themselves back into the top four of the GeoSonic Lowland League.

Industrious Ian McFarland was in positive form ahead of the fixture against familiar foes and the midfield playmaker took time out to discuss his thoughts on another important home game and how he has been encouraged by the player pathway system in promoting a series of youngsters into the Lowland League squad.

‘Subo’ said, “Last week’s win was a massive confidence boost for the lads because in previous weeks, I think we’ve put in some of our best performances of the season but just not taken our chances fully.  So, to get the win and put in the shift we done was great for us and stands us in good stead for this week.

“We’ve created a number of chances in a number of our games and have just needed that second goal most of the time to put light between us and the opposition to look to kill off the game.  Last Friday saw some true grit and determination and it was fantastic for Smudger and Stephen to get in on the goals and take us into a semi final.”

The no-nonsense tackler who has played 62 times and netted twice since his move from Edinburgh City added, “There’s still lots to play for this season including silverware and we go once again on Saturday against Edinburgh Uni who are a very decent outfit.   We’ve got to get out of the blocks first and control the game from the start.  Composure is key and we know how organised they will be, especially away from home, so we’ve got to set the tone and disrupt them, that’s what will essentially kick us on to winning the game.

“Murray (Hand) last week got an assist for the winning goal in a quarter final so that will be massive for him.  For the experienced players to see that we can really depend on the likes of Muzz and other guys being promoted from the 20s coming in and doing a job, its great for the club and hopefully the Club can continue producing quality players like them as it can only be good for Spartans in the long run.

“Jamie Dishington is another great example of the how the player pathway works here.  For someone of his age already clocking up 150 appearances for a club like Spartans, it’s some achievement and its 100% on merit too.

“He sets the example for the younger kids and shows what you can achieve. If you put the hard yards in and produce the goods on the pitch, Dougie will give you a chance and with so many good players across the Youth Section teams, it shows that the pathway is working.”

In other news, Alan Brown will have to wait before he’s back in the side as he continues his recovery from injury however the Gaffer has full strength at his disposal to take on Dorian Ogunro’s outfit who will be equally keen to get back to winning ways.

Kick-off is at 3.00pm.  Admission: £7 Adults, £4 Concessions and Under 16s Free.