Lowland League: It’s Kick-Off Time!!!

Posted on Friday, July 26th, 2019

There’s a degree of déjà vu for Dougie Samuel’s Spartans on Saturday as they open up their Lowland League campaign against University of Stirling however the Ainslie Park gaffer will be looking to kick-off in winning ways this season against the Students.

With new external signings and Academy Graduates stepping up to the first team squad, Samuel heads into the seventh season of the pyramid system knowing that a positive start from his charges is paramount to becoming the first club to win a hat-trick of titles.

A win on the road for Samuel would naturally be the ideal start however the Spartans supremo offered caution ahead of the clash against Chris Geddes’ side, “With so many league games played so early in the season it’s important to hit the ground running and get off to a good start. Playing a team who have trained full time for 4 weeks is a tough ask, but a challenge we are looking forward too.”

The match comes on the back of a pre-season that saw close encounters against loftier opponents in the shape of Raith Rovers and Liverpool u23s however, the last week has saw the treatment table populated by a few more faces than the Gaffer would have liked. “Sadly we picked up a few injuries during the games vs Jeanfield & Dalkeith. With hindsight taking the Dalkeith game was a mistake.

“We also have 3-4 players who are undercooked and short of match fitness. It’s frustrating to start the season with injuries to some key players but it’s a chance for others to stake a claim and step up.”

One player who has made that move – and with aplomb – is Adam Corbett. The former Under 20s skipper has been one of the first names on Samuel’s teamsheet each week since his debut at Gala in August 2017, such has been the impact of the young defender since moving up to the Lowland League squad.

Taking on the coveted armband is an honour for any player and the Gaffer admits his decision to award the 21 year old the Captain’s role for the season was a simple one.

“He represents all I look for in a player – he works hard to improve, wants to challenge himself and takes responsibility for his perf level. He’s also someone who will look out for his team mates, who cares about the well-being of others. In short he’s a great model for younger players with hopes of becoming 1st team players with us.”

The match at Forthbank Stadium kicks-off at 3pm, Saturday. Admission £6 Adults / £3 Concessions