Lowland League: Old friends meet again as Spartans take on the Students

Posted on Friday, July 23rd, 2021

The Spartans welcome old friends Edinburgh University to Ainslie Park for the fourteenth Lowland League meeting between the sides.

It’s a history however that goes back some 70 years, with The Spartans being established by two former Edinburgh University players, Elliot Wardlaw and Jimmy Beaumont, in the summer of 1951.

Since then, there have been many personnel who have been involved at both clubs, none more so than Manager Dougie Samuel who was in charge at Peffermill for 9 successful years before heading across the Capital back in June 2012.  

After a tough midweek opener against Rangers B, Spartans set their sights on an unbeaten league run against a University side managed by Dorian Ogunro, the second longest serving Lowland League gaffer behind Samuel.

Looking ahead to the game, Tuesday’s Malt and Hops Man of the Match Jamie Dishington knows just how important it is to capitalise on home advantage.

“Rangers were well organised on Tuesday night and pressed us, off the ball especially.  They were very good.  Looking ahead to Saturday, we just need to be on the front foot right from the first whistle and take the game to Uni, just like how Rangers done to us.

“Pre-season has been a bit stop-start for us due to a number of factors such as Covid etc along with some of the lads being at different fitness levels.  It was good last weekend against Chelmsford to see some goals being scored and we need to pick up from there and do the same against Uni, whilst keeping it tight at the back and get three points on the board.

“Especially early on in the season you want to be building momentum so it’s vital we get the win on Saturday and take it from there.

“Games against Uni are always tough affairs and they bring their ‘A’ game against Spartans.  They always up for it, so I think it’ll be a difficult game but hopefully we can come out on top.”

Tale of the tape:

Played 13 | Spartans wins 8 | Draws 5

Goals | Spartans 33 | Edinburgh Uni 12

As we continue to fall under the Scottish Govt guidance for restricted numbers at Ainslie Park, it is a vital way to allow us to ensure your safety and enhance Track and Trace. Please do purchase your match tickets via the Fanbase app if you can – or you can still pay at the gate if desired.

Alternatively, you can buy your tremendous value for money Season Ticket at the gate. They cost £100 (Adult) and £50 (Concession – 16-18, over 65 and students) with U16’s free.

They represent excellent value for money, they will give you access to all home league games, local cup competitions although not the Scottish Cup.

Electronic season tickets can be purchased via the Fanbase app by choosing Spartans as a club and then following the instructions and buying via the Store.  The feedback from fans so far is that it is simple and easy to use.