Time For A Break

Summer Is A Comin' - Merry Hell

Saturday 30th May 2015
Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division
Oban Saints AFC v Campbeltown Pupils AFC
Glencruitten 2, Mossfield Avenue, Oban, Argyll PA34 4EH
Kick Off 2pm
Referee Mr Gary Logan

Last Weekend

Saints had no fixture last weekend.

Time For A Break

This Saturday Saints welcome Argyll rivals Campbeltown Pupils to Glencruitten for what is widely considered to be the biggest of all the Argyll derbies. As derby matches go Pupils v Saints is not exactly local but the 88 or so miles between the two clubs does nothing to diminish their fierce rivalry. The battle for football supremacy in Argyll has raged long and hard since Saints gained admission to the Scottish Amateur Football League in 1976 paving the way for the other Argyll teams. Saints and Pupils have been by far the most successful of the Argyll clubs with both enjoying spells as "top dogs". Saints may have been first to join the SAFL but it was Pupils who were first to fulfill the criteria for admission to the Premier Divison. Similarly it was Pupils who were the first Argyll club to be crowned SAFL Premier Division Champions beating their Oban rivals to this prestigious accolade by 10 years. Since then the balance of power has swung towards Saints with the Oban club now in it's 13th consecutive season in the top flight during which time Pupils have yo-yo'd between the three divisions in the Premier League set-up. 

After an absence of five seasons Pupils returned to the Premier Division on the back of two consecutive league championships, the foundation for this resurgence being a phenomenal home record of just two defeats in three seasons. Unfortunately for Pupils they have been unable to continue that excellent home record in the Premier Division and have lost six of their nine home games including last September's 1 - 0 defeat against Saints. Pupils have fared slightly better on the road and have picked up eleven of their eighteen points on their travels. 

This will be the final match of the season for both clubs and presents a decent chance for both to end their season on a high as a local derby win is always one to savour. Saints have the added pressure of trying to secure a win for Manager Iain Jackson on what will be his final game in charge. After nearly a quarter of a century at the club as player Player/Manager and Manager Iain has elected call time on his football career and will be a sad loss to the Club. Saints have Dougal Graham, Jamie Graham and Lewis Cameron all unavailable for selection so Iain will have some interesting selection choices to make for what is sure to be a full blooded affair for local bragging rights. 

Campbeltown Pupils league fixtures so far:-

16th August 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 2 - 6 St Joseph's FP

30th August 2014 Busby 0 - 2 Campbeltown Pupils

6th September 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 2 - 7 Haldane United

13th September 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 0 - 1 Oban Saints

11th October 2014 Kings Park Rangers 0 - 3 Campbeltown Pupils

18th October 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 3 - 6 Finnart

25th October 2014 Eaglesham 1 - Campbeltown Pupils

15th November 2014 Haldane United 0 - 0 Campbeltown Pupils

22nd November 2104 Campbeltown Pupils 3 - 1 Thorn Athletic

13th December 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 3 - 0 Busby

7th February 2015 Finnart 2 - 3 Campbeltown Pupils

14th February 2015 Alba Thistle 2 - 2 Campbeltown Pupils

28th February 2015 Campbeltown Pupils 1 - 2 Alba Thistle

14th March 2015 Campbeltown Pupils 0 - 1 Kings Park Rangers

21st March 2015 Thorn Athletic 2 - 1 Campbeltown Pupils

11th April 2015 Campbeltown Pupils 0 - 0 Eaglesham

25th April 2015 St Joseph's FP 4 - 1 Campbeltown Pupils



Campbeltown Pupils' recent record in the SAFL:-

2013/14 Premier Division One Champions Promoted
2012/13 Premier Division Two Champions Promoted
2011/12 Premier Division Two 4th
2010/11 Premier Division One 9th Relegated
2009/10 Premier Division One 7th
2008/09 Premier Division 10th Relegated
2007/08 Premier Division One 3rd Promoted
2006/07 Premier Division One 5th

Campbeltown Pupils SAFL Premier Division One Champions 2013-14

Thanks for the memories Iain

#monthesaints

Cancel The Outfitters

No Cup Final suits required this season

Saints relinquished their grip on the Scottish Amateur Football League Jimmy Marshall Trophy at bogey ground Millburn Park, Alexandria last Wednesday evening. Despite a change of dressing room and warm-up end a sluggish opening twenty minutes denied Saints a third consecutive cup final appearance and confirmed a trophy-less end to the season for the Oban men. Injury and holidays ruled out Dougal Graham and Scott Maitland respectively however Jamie Graham returned to take Dougal's place in defence. With those exceptions Manager Iain Jackson named the same squad that had beaten Haldane United in Balloch just four days previously. Saints started tentatively against league and cup double chasing St Joseph's FP but still managed to record the first attempt on goal in the third minute when Donald Campbell sent a shot from just outside the box inches wide of goalkeeper Kevin Connor's right hand post. From the goal kick the ball was played out to St Joe's danger man Ryan Holms who picked out a well timed run into the box by Gary Redpath who, under no challenge was able to steer a header past Saints keeper Thomas McCulloch. Worse was to follow after just eleven minutes when Saints skipper was turned on the half-way line by Ryan Holms who set off at pace up the left wing. Marc is no slouch in the speed stakes but he was unable to recover his ground and Holms was able to send a terrific cross to the back post where Thomas Wilson out-jumped Jamie Graham sending a powerful header back across goal into the top right hand corner of the Saints net. Saints dusted themselves down from this double setback and slowly began to get into the game. After a good spell of pressure on the twenty minute mark Donald Campbell won a free kick on the edge of the St Joe's D. Donald took the kick himself and elected for power looking for a gap in the St Joe's wall however the wall stood firm blocking Donald's shot and clearing the danger. Allan Mackay had his first sight of goal after 25 minutes turning well in the box to fire a shot at the near post which the St Joe's defence forced behind for a corner. Two minutes later Saints brought out the first save of the night from St Joe's keeper Kevin Connor. Allan Mackay picked out a good run through the inside left channel by Donald Campbell however the close attentions of the St Joseph's defence prevented a shot on goal forcing Donald wide. Donald switched the ball to the right wing where Allan Mackay was brought down just outside of the box. Lewis Cameron swung in the free kick which was headed clear at the front post only as far as David McArthur lurking on the edge of the box who fired in a powerful low shot which the keeper did well to hold at his near post. Saints were playing some better stuff now and were at last competing well with the very accomplished looking St Joe's side. On the half hour mark a defence splitting pass from Donald Campbell was fractionally too long for Craig MacEwan to reach after a good run through the inside left channel and the ball was plucked from Craig's outstretched boot by the grateful goalkeeper. After 37 minutes Allan Mackay won another free kick on the right from which Lewis Cameron found the head of Craig MacEwan. Craig climbed well to reach the cross but was unable to guide his header on target under severe pressure from the St Joe's defence. One minute later David McArthur had a second long range shooting opportunity but this time failed to trouble the keeper sending his shot from 25 yards high and wide of target. A 42nd minute foul on Paul Kerr gave Lewis Cameron a chance to test the underworked St Joe's keeper however Lewis sent his free kick from 28 yards range high over the crossbar giving the keeper another leisurely stroll to retrieve the ball from behind his goal and help run the clock down to half time.
Saints knew that a goal early in the second half would bring them right back into the match but with St Joe's exerting a tight grip in midfield were unable to create a chance of note in the opening exchanges. Indeed it was St Joe's who had the chance to extend their lead in the 55th minute when Thomas McCulloch was forced to save with his legs from close range with St Joe's sending the rebound wide for a goal kick. Manager Iain Jackson made his first change after 59 minutes bringing on Ross Maitland to replace David McArthur on the right wing. Saints eventually managed a shot on goal after 18 second half minutes but Craig MacEwan's right foot shot from the corner of the box flew wide of the postage stamp corner. Two minutes later Saints carved out their best chance of the match. A terrific pass from Donald Campbell picked out Allan Mackay's near post run, Allan's powerful shot was blocked by the legs of Kevin Connor with the rebound landing back at Allan's feet.The close attendance of John Paul Seagrave forced Allan wide narrowing the angle considerably and his second attempt could only find the side netting. Thomas McCulloch kept Saints in the game in the 70th minute with a terrific block after Thomas Wilson had been allowed to stride forward unchallenged and fire in a fierce shot from the edge of the box. The rebound fell kindly for St Joe's skipper Colin Gailey who, fortunately for Saints, skyed his effort over the bar. St Joe's continued to look the more threatening particularly on the right wing. In the 75th minute Ryan Holms outpaced Paul Kerr wide on the right and sent in a dangerous cross which Alex Craik got back well to intercept. Moments later Paul was involved at the other end when he linked up well with Ross Maitland who had made a strong run on the Saints right. Paul swung in an inviting cross from the corner of the box which Craig MacEwan glanced agonisingly wide of target again under great pressure from the St Joseph's defence. That signalled the end of Paul's involvement with Dean Smith coming on as a 78th minute substitute to join Allan Mackay in attack and Lewis Cameron dropping back into midfield. Saints had another set piece opportunity when a Cruyff turn 25 yards from the St Joe's goal from Alex Craik drew a foul from his marker. Ross Maitland took the kick but once again St Joe's coped easily with the danger clearing the ball to safety. Despite there being no sign of a breakthrough Saints kept plugging away and couldn't be faulted for their work rate. With ten minutes remaining Thomas McCulloch was called into action again when he got down well at his near post to save from the very impressive Ryan Holms. Manager Iain Jackson made his final change with four minutes remaining bringing on Martin Bonar to replace Lewis Cameron. In time added on Saints had one last attempt on goal from a set-piece after Donald Campbell had been brought down 28 yards from goal. Allan Mackay's curling effort over the St Joe's wall had Kevin Connor scrambling across his goal line but the ball slipped inches wide of his left hand post denying Saints a last gasp consolation. At the other end Saints were spared the ignominy of a three goal reverse when Kevin Williams blasted high over the bar after more good work on the left from Ryan Holms. Referee Gordon Hay who, assisted by Michael Auld and Jim Rose, handled the match well blew for full time signalling the end of Saints hopes of silverware this season. Saints will reflect ruefully on their poor start and two relatively cheap early goals conceded, however St Joseph's were the better team on the evening and deserved their victory.

Donald Campbell looks for a way through the St Joe's defence

Thomas Wilson slides in to beat Craig MacEwan

Kevin Connor foils Allan Mackay

Allan Mackay's late free-kick has Kevin Connor scrambling across his goal line

#monthesaints

Bronze Age

Saturday 23rd May 2015
Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division
Oban Saints AFC v Finnart AFC
Glencruitten 2, Mossfield Avenue, Oban, Argyll PA34 4EH
Kick Off 2pm
Referee Mr John Scott

Possible alternative venue and time:-

Oban Community Sports Field (3G), Soroba Road, Oban, Argyll PA34 4JB
Kick off 1pm

Last Time Out

Relegation threatened Alba Thistle were the grateful beneficiaries of by far Saints worse performance of the season at a windswept Seething Community Sports Centre, Paisley last Saturday afternoon. The unexpected three points for Alba sets them up nicely for their final match of the season against Eaglesham where a win will secure their Premier Division status at the expense of Busby. Saints were without injured pair Dougal Graham and Donald Campbell and holiday makers Allan Mackay and Scott Maitland so PJ Sinclair and Shaun MacIver were added to the travelling party. Skipper Marc Maccallum won the toss and elected to swap ends to play into the strong wind in the first half. Saints started brightly with Dean Smith having a shot narrowly wide of target in the first minute from a low cross from the right from Ross Maitland. One minute later Smith drew a foul from his marker winning a free kick on the Saints right twenty eight yards from goal. Dean made a good run to get across his marker and get on the end of Ross Maitland's free kick but his attempted hook shot was comfortably  saved  by Lee Mitchell in the Alba goal. Saints were showing no signs of being disadvantaged by playing into the wind and carved out a decent chance in the fifth minute with a good interchange on the left from Craig MacEwan and Paul Kerr. Paul found Lewis  Cameron on the edge of the box whose instinctive first time pass picked out Ross Maitland's run to the near post but the wee man's close range effort slipped wide of the post. Alba won the first corner of the match in the seventh minute and punished Saints for some slack marking. The cross was cleared comfortably enough however Alba striker Mark McCormack was left unmarked on the edge of the box and his first time effort found the back of the Saints net. Manager Iain Jackson had deployed a slightly unfamiliar 3-4-3 formation pushing Ross Maitland forward to join Lewis Cameron and Dean Smith in attack. More unfamiliar however was the disjointed and error strewn passing which prevailed throughout. In the 17th minute a good pass through the inside right channel from Myles McAuley played in David McArthur who cut in from the right wing and fired a low shot across the face of goal narrowly missing the base of the keeper's right hand post. Alba had a chance in the 27th minute to test Thomas McCulloch with a wind assisted free kick but the big keeper was left untroubled as the shot from Daniel Walsh sailed high over the crossbar. With the wind hampering his kicking Thomas McCulloch played the ball short to Jamie Graham on the right of the back three who clipped the ball forward to David McArthur. David made a good run up the wing and sent over an inviting cross towards Ross Maitland however the Alba keeper came to collect and used his considerable height advantage to pluck the ball off the wee man's head. In the 34th minute Craig MacEwan burst forward on the left and played the ball into Dean Smith on the 18 yard line. Dean did well to turn his marker and get a shot away unfortunately his low right foot effort want wide of the keeper's left hand post. Saints shot themselves in the foot again in the 38th minute leaving themselves up against it for the second game in a row. A needless pass back from midfield put goalkeeper Thomas McCulloch under pressure to clear from the edge of his 18 yard box. With the ball coming straight onto him and struggling to make a decent connection on the bumpy surface Thomas couldn't get any distance on his clearance sending it only as far as the feet of the unmarked Mark McCormack who casually clipped the ball into the unguarded net to give the hosts a flattering two goal advantage to take into the second half.
The second half was only minutes old when Alba were reduced to ten men for a spot of afters on the floor after Michael Iau had brought down Dean Smith midway inside the Saints half. Unfortunately for Saints Dean also saw red for his part in the melee. Saints pulled one back almost immediately after the red cards after a driving run into the Alba box by Craig MacEwan won a corner on the Saints left. Lewis Cameron's in swinging corner on top of the goal keeper was forced in at the back post by Paul Kerr. This together with the extra space from the red cards and the wind advantage should have signalled the start of a Saints onslaught but the first half pattern of poor movement and slack passing continued and chances remained at a premium. Manager Iain Jackson made his first change after 53 minutes bringing on Martin Bonar to replace Alex Craik. Martin joined the attack leaving Skipper Marc Maccallum and Jamie Graham at the back. In the 58th minute Craig MacEwan was disappointed not to have tested the keeper heading wide from a David McArthur cross from the right wing. One minute later Craig was inches away from connecting with a Ross Maitland corner from the left Lee Mitchell doing well to gather under pressure at the back post. Saints made their second substitution after 63 minutes when Shaun MacIver came on to replace David McArthur. Martin Bonar moved to the right to take up the berth vacated by David with Shaun joining Lewis Cameron and Ross Maitland in attack. The wind, which strengthened as the half progressed, continued to aid Saints territorial advantage however the heavy hail showers that accompanied it did little to help build any momentum. In the 73rd minute Alba made a rare foray into the Saints half and won a corner on the left wing. After wasting a couple of minutes, which the referee took careful note of, deciding who should take the kick it was eventually swung in to the back post where Thomas McCulloch was relieved to see Craig MacEwan head off the line. Manager Iain Jackson made his final change with twelve minutes remaining giving PJ Sinclair a rare run-out at the expense of Lewis Cameron. With the match stuttering towards the final whistle PJ made a good run from midfield and found the Alba defence parting in front of him. PJ advanced to the 18 yard line but, with Ross Maitland to his right screaming for a pass, shot weakly at goalkeeper Lee Mitchell who could scarcely believe his luck. Referee Don Flanigan added on plenty of time to make up for Alba's second half time wasting but Saints were unable to muster another decent attempt of note. Much to the delight of the Alba players and staff Referee Flanigan, taking charge of his first Saints game since returning to the Scottish Amateur Football League following a spell in the Paisley and District League, brought proceedings to an end leavjng league survival very much in Alba's own hands.

Ross Maitland and Alba's Daniel O'Hare

Craig MacEwan puts Alba keeper Lee Mitchell under pressure

Paul Kerr pulls one back for Saints

A very frustrated Saints Management Team

The Battle for Third Place

With all hopes of silverware now gone Saints turn their attentions to the battle for third place which is now a straight fight between Saints and Finnart. Saturday's visitors currently sit in fourth place in the Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division three points behind Saints but with a vastly superior goal difference. A win for Finnart would keep them on course for their highest ever Scottish Amateur League finish whereas Saints are chasing a seventh top three finish in nine seasons. When the two sides met at Glencruitten last season they were both very much in the title hunt and it was Saints who prevailed on that occasion thanks in no small measure to goalkeeper Daniel Cassells who pulled off two stunning penalty saves from Finnart skipper Brian Blair. In an incident packed game Saints took the lead through Ross Maitland and, after surviving the two Finnart penalties, wrapped things up against a tiring Finnart defence with two late goals from substitute Mattie Rippon.
It was an entirely different story at Glasgow Green earlier this season when Finnart recorded their first ever victory over Saints. Finnart again won two penalties in the match which were this time clinically dispatched by Andy Robertson giving Daniel Cassells no chance of repeating last season's heroics. The two second half penalties added to first half goals from Jason McArthur and Ben Mills to give Finnart an unassailable 4 - 0 lead, however to their Credit Saints never gave up and were rewarded for their tenacity with an 83rd minute Donald Campbell consolation goal.
Saturday's fixture promises to be a cracker but the excitement does not end there as both sides have one more crunch fixture remaining. For Saints it's a first home Argyll Derby against great rivals Campbeltown Pupils since August 2008, while Finnart will the chance to have a say in the final destination of the Premier Division trophy when they face St Joseph's FP at Glasgow Green. Assuming St Joe's can secure victory over Eaglesham on Saturday a win at Finnart on the final day will send the Premier Division trophy to Duntocher by virtue of their superior goal difference over title rivals Thorn Athletic. However, if Finnart can deny St Joe's the full three points the league title will go to Thorn.
Manager Iain Jackson should have a full squad at his disposal as he endeavours to end a disappointing season on as high a note as possible.

Finnart's league fixtures so far this season:-

16th August 2014 Busby 3 - 6 Finnart

23rd August 2014 Finnart 3 - 3 Thorn Athletic

13th September 2014 Haldane United 1 - 5 Finnart

18th October 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 3 - 6 Finnart

25th October 2014 St Joseph's FP 3 - 0 Finnart

1st November 2014 Finnart 4 - 0 Kings Park Rangers

8th November 2014 Finnart 0 - 0 Busby
29th November 2014 Finnart 4 - 1 Oban Saints
13th December 2014 Finnart 4 - 4 Alba Thistle
7th February 2015 Finnart 2 - 3 Campbeltown Pupils
14th February 2015 Finnart 0 - 1 Haldane United
28th February 2015 Kings Park Rangers 0 - 2 Finnart
21st March 2015 Alba Thistle 2 - 4 Finnart
4th April 2015 Eaglesham 2 - 0 Finnart
25th April 2015 Thorn Athletic 3 - 2 Finnart
9th May 2015 Finnart 1 - 1 Eaglesham

Finnart's SAFL record:-

2010/11
Premier Division Two Champions (Promoted)

2011/12
Premier Division One Champions (Promoted)
Centenary Cup Runners Up to Postal United

2012/13
Premier Division 7th

2013/14
Premier Division 4th

Saints record against Finnart:-

2012/13
Oban Saints 4 - 1 Finnart
Finnart 0 - 1 Oban Saints

2013/14
Oban Saints 3 - 0 Finnart

Finnart 0 - 1 Oban Saints

2014/15
Finnart 4 - 1 Oban Saints

Action from last season's meeting at Glencruitten

Ross Maitland opens the scoring for Saints

   Daniel Cassells keeps Saints in front with his second penalty save

Mattie Rippon's emphatic right foot finish puts Saints 2 - 0 up

Lewis Cameron skips through the Finnart defence to set up Saints third goal

Mattie Rippon turns in Lewis Cameron's cut back to seal the three points for Saints

Lewis congratulates Mattie as coach Peter MacCallum dances a jig of delight

#monthesaints

Walk The Line

Seedhill Line Markings

Johnny Cash - I Walk The Line

Saturday 16th May 2015
Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division
Alba Thistle v Oban Saints
Seedhill Park, Lacy Street, Paisley PA1 1QR
Kick Off 2pm
Referee Mr Don Flanigan

Saints make their final away trip of the season this Saturday to face Alba Thistle at Seedhill Park, Paisley. Alba are currently in tenth place in the Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division with ten points from sixteen matches and have this and one further home match against Eaglesham left to avoid the ignominy of finishing bottom of the league. Owing to the departure from the Scottish Amateur Football League of Eaglesham, Haldane United and Thorn Athletic there is unlikely to be any relegation from the Premier Division therefore the final league standings will be a matter of pride alone. Saints are also now just playing for pride as their league title aspirations were extinguished several weeks ago with the home defeat to Thorn Athletic effectively being the last nail in the coffin. 
Saints and Alba were due to meet at Glencruitten earlier in the season but unfortunately Alba were unable to raise a team on the day and Saints were awarded the points for an unfulfilled fixture. In last season's meeting at Seedhill Saints had to fight back from a 3 - 1 half time deficit to secure a hard fought 5 - 4 win. Two goals each from Allan Mackay and Donald Campbell and one from Ross Maitland were just enough to secure the points against an Alba side who battled all the way on the short and bumpy surface. The usual mixture of injuries, holidays and work commitments will stretch Saints resources but with little pressure on either side an open and entertaining game of football is in prospect with every member of the travelling party likely to get a good run-out. 




Alba Thistle's league season thus far:-

16th August 2014 Alba Thistle 0 - 2 Haldane United
23rd August 2014 St Joseph's FP 3 - 0 Alba Thistle
30th August 2014 Alba Thistle 1 - 1 Kings Park Rangers
20th September 2014 Alba Thistle 2 - 3 Thorn Athletic
20th November 2014 Alba Thistle 1 - 1 Busby
13th December 2014 Finnart 4 - 4 Alba Thistle
14th February 2015 Alba Thistle 2 - 2 Campbeltown Pupils
28th February 2015 Campbeltown Pupils 1 - 2 Alba Thistle
14th March 2015 Busby 4 - 2 Alba Thistle
21st March 2015 Alba Thistle 2 - 4 Finnart
15th April 2015 Thorn Athletic 5 - 2 Alba Thistle
22nd April 2015 Eaglesham 4 - 2 Alba Thistle
25th April 2015 Haldane United 1 - 1 Alba Thistle
29th April 2015 Alba Thistle 0 - 1 St Joseph's FP
9th May 2015 Kings Park Rangers 3 - 1 Alba Thistle



Alba Thistle's recent league history:-

2007/08 Paisley and District Division Two Champions (Promoted)
2008/09 Paisley and District Division One Champions
2009/10 Paisley and District Division One Champions (Undefeated)
2010/11 SAFL Division Three Champions (Promoted)
2011/12 SAFL Division Two Champions (Promoted) (Undefeated)
2012/13 SAFL Division One Champions (Promoted)
2013/14 SAFL Premier Division 8th


Saints record against Alba Thistle:-

24th April 2013 SAFL Centenary Cup Final Alba Thistle 0 - 0 Oban Saints (5 - 4 on penalties)12th October 2013 SAFL Premier Division Oban Saints 2 - 0 Alba Thistle
29th March 2014 SAFL Premier Division Alba Thistle 4 - 5 Oban Saints

Action from last season's match at Seedhill

Saints fall 3 - 1 behind after 40 minutes

Saints prepare for the second half kick-off

Allan Mackay with Saints second goal from the penalty spot

Donald Campbell's 35 yard lob for Saints fifth

#monthesaints

Semi - Final Preview

The Scottish Amateur Football League Jimmy Marshall Trophy

Wednesday 13th May 2015
Scottish Amateur Football League Jimmy Marshall Trophy Semi-Final
Oban Saints AFC v St Joseph's FP AFC
Millburn Park, Leven Street, Alexandria G83 0SR
Kick off 6.45pm
Referee Mr Gordon Hay
Assistant Referees Mr Michael Auld and Mr Jim Rose

Millburn Park, Alexandria home of Vale of Leven Football and Athletic Club

Following last Saturday's Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division victory over Haldane United in Balloch Saints make a swift return to the Vale of Leven to face St Joseph's FP in the semi-final of the Jimmy Marshall Trophy at Millburn Park, Alexandria. While this is previously uncharted territory for St Joe's, cup holders Saints are making their third consecutive appearance at this stage of the competition and fifth in nine seasons. Despite a decent record in reaching the latter stages of the competition it took Saints until last season to finally break their duck in the Jimmy Marshall Trophy with a 2 - 0 victory over Inverclyde at McKenna Park, Govan. One hoodoo however remains with Saints record of never having won a match at Millburn Park which is something the players and management are desperate to put right on Wednesday night.
Opponents St Joseph's are chasing a first Premier Division title since 2009 and are locked in a fascinating battle at the top of the league table with Thorn Athletic. Saints will hope that St Joe's have Saturday's league match against Kings Park Rangers on their minds however a much prized league and cup double is up for grabs for the Duntocher men therefore any lack of focus is highly unlikely. Saints slipped out the running in the league championship a couple of weeks ago therefore the Jimmy Marshall Trophy is now their only hope of silverware this season. Victory here for Saints would go some way to easing the pain of losing their grip on the Premier Division trophy won in such convincing style last season and a third consecutive cup final appearance at Somervell Park, Cambuslang on Sunday 31st May would provide the opportunity to end an otherwise frustrating season on a high.
Matches between Saints and St Joes are always entertaining affairs witb both sides eager to play good quality passing football. Wednesday's match should be no different with the bonus of a cup final place adding some spice to the mix. The tie must be decided on the night with penalty kicks to decide the winner if the scores are level after 90 minutes.

St Joseph's FP AFC Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division fixtures so far this season:-

16th August 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 2 - 6 St Joseph's FP

23rd August 2014 St Joseph's FP 3 - 0 Alba Thistle

27th August 2014 Busby 0 - 3 St Joseph's

20th September 2014 St Joseph's 1 - 1 Haldane United

11th October 2014 Thorn Athletic 1 - 1 St Joseph's FP

25th October 2014 St Joseph's 3 - 0 Finnart
22nd November 2014 Oban Saints 2 - 5 St Joseph's FP
29th November 2014 St Joseph's FP 0 - 1 Eaglesham
4th April 2015 St Joseph's FP 1 - 2 Oban Saints
15th April 2015 Haldane United 1 - 2 St Joseph's FP
25th April 2015 St Joseph's FP 4 - 1 Campbeltown Pupils
29th April 2015 Alba Thistle 0 - 1 St Joseph's FP
2nd May 2015 St Joseph's FP 2 - 3 Thorn Athletic
6th May 2015 Kings Park Rangers 1 - 4 St Joseph's FP
9th May 2015 St Joseph's 8 - 1 Busby

Route to the semi-final:-

First Round
Easthall Star 1 - 4 Oban Saints
Paisley 0 - 4 St Joseph's FP

Second Round
Oban Saints 8 - 1 Jamestown
Alba Thistle 0 - 0 St Joseph's FP (St Joseph's win 5 - 4 on penalty kicks)

Quarter Finals
Oban Saints 1 - 0 Haldane United
Eaglesham 1 - 3 St Joseph's FP

St Joseph's West of Scotland Cup exploits this season:-

2nd Round 18th October 2014 Clydeside Athletic 1 - 6 St Joseph's FP

3rd Round 15th November 2014 St Joseph's FP 3 - 1 Catrine
4th Round 14th February 2015 EK Amateurs 5 - 1 St Joseph's FP

St Joseph's FP AFC recent Scottish Amateur Football League finishes:-

2006/07 Premier Division One 4th

2007/08 Premier Division One 2nd Promoted

2008/09 Premier Division Champions

2009/10 Premier Division 6th

2010/11 Premier Division 6th

2011/12 Premier Division 6th

2012/13 Premier Division 5th

2013/14 Premier Division 3rd

Saints St Joseph's FP head to head in the SAFL Premier Division:-

2008/09
St Joseph's FP 1 - 1 Oban Saints
Oban Saints 2 - 3 St Joseph's FP


2009/10
Oban Saints 2 - 0 St Joseph's FP
St Joseph's FP 1 - 1 Oban Saints


2010/11
Oban Saints 8 - 1 St Joseph's FP
St Joseph's FP 1 - 3 Oban Saints


2011/12
Oban Saints 3 - 1 St Joseph's FP
St Joseph's FP 0 - 3 Oban Saints


2012/13
St Joseph's FP 0 - 1 Oban Saints
Oban Saints 0 - 1 St Joseph's FP


2013/14
Oban Saints 1 - 1 St Joseph's FP
St Joseph's FP 1 - 2 Oban Saints


2014/15
Oban Saints 2 - 5 St Joseph's FP
St Joseph's FP 1 - 2 Oban Saints

Willie Gemmell's in-direct free kick is blocked by the St Joe's wall in Saints 3 - 1 win at Glencruitten on Saturday 17th March 2012

Paul Kerr tussles with Kieron Timoney in the 1 - 1 draw at Glencruitten on Saturday 14th September 2013

Allan Mackay slots home from the penalty spot to seal a 2 -1 victory for Saints at Clydebank High School on Saturday 12th April 2014

Martin Bonar and John Paul Seagrave in Saints 2 - 1 win at William Street, Duntocher on Saturday 4th April 2015 

#monthesaints

So Long Farewell

So Long, Farewell

Saints warmed up for their Scottish Amateur Football League Jimmy Marshall Trophy semi-final with a hard fought win over Haldane United at a sunny Inler Park last Saturday afternoon. With all chance of retaining the Premier Division title now gone Saints hopes of finishing the season with some silverware rest exclusively with the cup therefore a good performance against Central Scottish Amateur Football League bound Haldane ahead of Wednesday's semi-final was more important than the result. Manager Iain Jackson can have no complaints on either front as the team produced a solid performance to record their third victory of the season over the Balloch men.
Saints kicked off playing up the slight slope with the strong breeze behind them and immediately took the game to their hosts with Lewis Cameron signalling his intent to run at the Haldane defence at every opportunity. Despite the strong start from Saints it was Haldane who threatened first with a swift counter attack after three minutes. A deep cross from the left wing from Lee Hall found the head of towering centre forward Ross Davies whose header brought out the first save of the day from Saints keeper Thomas McCulloch. Saints continued to probe for openings with Donald Campbell, Paul Kerr and Myles McAuley pulling the strings in midfield but the Haldane back four were in determined mood and chances were hard to come by for the front pairing of Allan Mackay and Lewis Cameron. Saints survived a scare in the 12th minute when Thomas McCulloch slid out at the feet of Ross Davies and Saints skipper Marc MacCallum for what looked like a routine take on the edge of his penalty area. However the big keeper somehow failed to connect and was indebted to Alex Craik who got back to clear the effort from Davies off the line. In the 21st minute Myles McAuley's persistence on the right wing won a free kick which gave Lewis Cameron the chance to whip in a dangerous looking cross which Haldane keeper Brian Gallagher could only punch high into the air before Haldane skipper Daniel McIlmun sliced his attempted clearance behind for a corner. Lewis took the kick from the left wing but his in swinger to the back post was well held by the Haldane keeper. Saints were warming up a bit now and trying to use the width of Craig MacEwan on the left and David McArthur on the right to stretch the Haldane back four. In the 25th minute Myles McAuley and David McArthur combined well on the right giving David a shooting opportunity on the edge of the Haldane box. David's shot was blocked on the six yard line but fell kindly for Donald Campbell whose shot from 20 yards shaved the base of the keeper's right hand post. Saints fell behind two minutes later with Haldane, as so often in the past, taking the aerial route to success. The combined efforts of Paul Kerr and Alex Craik prevented Ross Davies from getting a clean header on another cross from the left but in the melee the big striker reacted quickest to poke the ball high into the top right hand corner of the net. Saints were disappointed to concede so cheaply and immediately carved out their best opportunity of the match so far. Donald Campbell picked out Craig MacEwan who controlled well, beat his man and played a neat pass through to Lewis Cameron on the left hand side of the box. Lewis cut onto his right foot opening up the angle for him to curl a shot agonisingly wide of the keeper's right hand post. In the 31st minute more good work on the left from Craig MacEwan won a corner kick giving Lewis Cameron another chance to pick out a Saints head. Lewis swung over a dangerous looking cross to the back post but again found no takers in dark blue. Saints were upping the  pressure now and on 33 minutes Lewis Cameron chested down a Paul Kerr pass, turned and fired in a terrific 25 yard shot which the keeper could only parry to Craig MacEwan who looked set to score but for a last gasp interception sending the ball out for a throw-in. Craig found Lewis with the throw who turned his man and sent in a low shot to the near post which the keeper did well to hold. In the 37th minute Donald Campbell had another shooting opportunity on the edge of the D but once again shaved the outside of the post with keeper well beaten. With the clock ticking down towards the half time interval Saints had their final chance of the half when Donald Campbell picked out Craig MacEwan in the inside left channel whose curling right foot shot brought out a terrific save from Brian Gallagher at his far post. Saints survived one final scare before the whistle when Ross Davies could scarcely believe his luck to be unmarked on the 18 yard line and ready to pull the trigger, seemingly from nowhere Myles McAuley got back with a fantastic interception to take the ball off the big striker's toe and save an almost certain goal.
Saints were back on the attack from the re-start and took just two minutes to get the equaliser. Paul Kerr and Lewis Cameron combined well on the left hand side of the Haldane box to pick out Craig MacEwan who curled a right foot shot beyond the despairing dive of the Haldane keeper. Haldane once again demonstrated their aerial prowess when Daniel McIlmun leapt high above the Saints defence from a corner kick on the Saints left to send a towering header on target. Thankfully for Saints Paul Kerr guarding the right hand post was able to clear the ball to safety. Manager Iain Jackson made his first change in the 52nd minute withdrawing David McArthur and replacing him on the right wing Ross Maitland. Moments later Haldane winger Lee Hall cut in from the left and fired a spectacular swerving right foot shot from all of thirty yards crashing off the face of Saints cross bar with Thomas McCulloch firmly rooted to the spot. Saints fans will remember the terrific long range shot from which Lee scored against Saints in Oban in March, if anything this strike was better and deserved a goal. Saints survived another scare in the 54th minute when Daniel McIlmun again out jumped the Saints defence to head inches over the crossbar. From Thomas McCulloch's goal kick Craig MacEwan won a free kick on the left but once again Lewis Cameron was unable to pick out a Saints head and his cross was headed clear. In the 55th minute Referee Andrew Seymour finally tired of the treatment being dished out to the Saints attack and Lewis Cameron in particular and booked Haldane central defender Robert McKenzie  for persistent fouling. One minute later Lee Hall again tried his luck from distance this time clearing the crossbar by a matter of inches. On the hour mark the Referee was reaching for his pocket again when a typically rampaging run from Myles McAuley was halted by a cynical challenge by Haldane midfielder John Muir. In the 66th minute Allan Mackay was gjven a rare sight of goal after good link-up play from Ross Maitland and Myles McAuley, Allan's shot across the face of goal was inches short of being tucked in by Craig MacEwan sliding in at the back post. Manager Iain Jackson made his second change after 70 minutes introducing Dean Smith to replace Allan Mackay who had lead the line well against Haldane's giant central defenders. Thomas McCulloch was called into action again in the 72nd minute diving well to cut out a low cross from the Haldane right. Alex Craik was withdrawn from the action with fifteen minutes remaining making way for Scott Maitland. In the reshuffle Paul Kerr dropped back to join Skipper Marc MacCallum and Dougal Graham in defence with Scott slotting into midfield. Thomas McCulloch, who appeared to grow in confidence as the match progressed, pulled off another fine save from a long range Haldane effort low down at his near post. Saints finally took the lead with ten minutes remaining. Scott Maitland made a great interception to win possession 30 yards from the Haldane goal and fed the ball to Donald Campbell on the edge of the box. Donald wrong footed the Haldane defence with a pin-point first time pass to Dean Smith who curled an excellent right foot finish past Brian Gallagher. This was the cue for Saints final change with Martin Bonar coming on to replace Craig MacEwan on the left wing. Haldane's best hope of getting back on terms continued to be the aerial route and in the 85th minute central defender Robert McKenzie came close with a powerful header from a long throw which flew narrowly over the Saints crossbar. Haldane's Lee Hall joined the list of names in the Referee's notebook for an extremely late high challenge on Paul Kerr in the centre circle which could easily have been considered a red card offence. In time added on for stoppages Haldane launched one final long throw from the right touchline which Thomas McCulloch did well to punch clear through a ruck of players. Scott Maitland collected the ball on the edge of his own box and set off on a powerful run upfield supported by Dean Smith and Lewis Cameron. With the Haldane defence struggling to get back Scott slipped the ball to Dean on the 18 yard line who in turn picked out Lewis for a simple tap-in to seal victory for Saints. There was barely any time left and Referee Seymour, who handled proceedings well, brought the match to an end seconds after the re-start.
Saints now bid farewell to Haldane United against whom they have enjoyed some terrific matches in recent seasons and wish them all the best for their new adventure in the Central Scottish Amateur Football League.

Things are looking up for Jonathon Murray, Ross Davies, Marc MacCallum and Craig MacEwan

Brian Gallacher collects under pressure from Allan Mackay

Ross Davies opens the scoring for Haldane United

Craig MacEwan with Jonathon Murray in pursuit

Allan Mackay leaps with Robert McKenzie

Lewis Cameron and Euan Kennedy

Haldane United keeper Brian Gallacher

Myles McAuley and Richard Stewart

Lewis Cameron holds off the close attentions of Haldane skipper Daniel McIlmun

Myles McAuley, Paul Cavana, Lewis Cameron, Daniel McIlmun, Euan Kennedy, Robert McKenzie and Allan Mackay

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Leaving Here

Eddie Holland - Leaving Here

Saturday 9th May 2015
Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division
Haldane United AFC v Oban Saints AFC
Inler Park, Talbot Road, Balloch G83 8AB
Kick off 2pm
Referee Mr Andrew Seymour

Last Weekend

Saints feint hopes of retaining their Scottish Amateur Football League Premier Division title finally came to an end last weekend. While the Saints players and management were enjoying a bank holiday weekend off all eyes were on title rivals St Joseph's FP and Thorn Athletic who went head-to-head in Duntocher in the Premier Division's only fixture. A share of the points or a St Joe's win would keep Saints in the title race for another week alas, after a tense ninety minutes at William Street it was men from Johnstone who prevailed and Saints hopes were scuppered. Thorn went two goals ahead within the opening half hour but were pegged back from the penalty spot on the stroke of half time. In the second half St Joe's did all that they could to break down the resolute Thorn defence but couldn't find a way past Thorn skipper and goalkeeper Liam McWilliams who pulled off some excellent saves to keep the Joe's attack at bay. The decisive moment of the match came with ten minutes remaining when Thorn's dead ball expert Paul Young scored direct from a corner kick sending the Thorn contingent on the sidelines wild with delight. St Joe's pulled one back in stoppage time after a rare lapse in concentration in the Thorn defence but it was too little too late from a Saints point of view as the three points gives Thorn a points advantage which Saints cannot now overhaul. Despite losing to their closest rivals St Joe's remain in with a shout of the Premier Division title if they can win all of their remaining fixtures.

Leaving Here

This Saturday see's Saints make their final trip to Inler Park, Balloch before hosts Haldane United depart the Scottish Amateur Football League in search of a fresh challenge in the Central Scottish Amateur Football League. Haldane will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Aikenhead Thistle, Gourock Athletic, Greenock High School FP, Postal United and St Patrick's FP who have all undertaken the same journey in recent seasons. Haldane are a very well run and ambitious club and their departure is a blow to the Scottish Amateur Football League especially as it comes at the same time as Thorn Athletic and Eaglesham's defection to the Caledonian League.
Haldane United's brief spell in the Scottish Amateur Football League has been a successful one securing four promotions, one cup and two league titles in six seasons. However, despite coming agonisingly close last season, the much prized Premier Division title looks now to have escaped their grasp. Haldane currently sit in third place in the Premier Division with twenty five points from seventeen games, marginally ahead of Saints on goal difference but with three games more played.
Both teams are now out of contention for the Premier Division title and are left to slug it out for third spot with Eaglesham and Finnart.

Saints hold the upper hand in the five matches between the clubs so far however every game has been extremely close with little to choose between two very well matched sides. Saints only previous visit to Inler Park came back in August 2013 and gave the eventual title winners a preview of the remarkable resilience Haldane were to show throughout last season's league campaign. Saints were 3 - 0 ahead and seemingly coasting to victory against ten men with thirty minutes left to play but Haldane came storming back to draw the match 3 - 3. Indeed such was the head of steam built up by Haldane in the closing stages that had the match lasted any longer they would most probably turned the result around completely.

As this is Haldane's final fixture in the Scottish Amateur Football League they will be desperate to go out on a high especially as it gives them one last opportunity to get one over on Saints against whom they have built up a close but friendly rivalry in recent seasons.

Haldane United

Saints record against Haldane United:-

8th May 2013 SAFL Jimmy Marshall Trophy Semi-Final Haldane United 0 - 2 Oban Saints
24th August 2013 SAFL Premier Division Haldane United 3 - 3 Oban Saints
31st May 2014 SAFL Premier Division Oban Saints 2 - 1 Haldane United
7th March 2015 SAFL Premier Division Oban Saints 5 - 3 Haldane United
18th April 2015 SAFL Jimmy Marshall Trophy Quarter-Final Oban Saints 1 - 0 Haldane United




Haldane United's league fixtures so far this season:-

16th August 2014 Alba Thistle 0 - 2 Haldane United
23rd August 2014 Eaglesham 2 - 1 Haldane United
6th September 2014 Campbeltown Pupils 2 - 7 Haldane United
13th September 2014 Haldane United 1 - 5 Finnart
20th September 2014 St Joseph's FP 1 - 1 Haldane United
11th October 2014 Haldane United 2 - 2 Busby
8th November 2014 Haldane United 1 - 3 Thorn Athletic
15th November 2014 Haldane United 0 - 0 Campbeltown Pupils
29th November 2014 Kings Park Rangers 1 - 3 Haldane United
7th February 2015 Haldane United 5 - 2 Kings Park Rangers
28th February 2015 Haldane United 3 - 1 Eaglesham
7th March 2015 Oban Saints 5 - 3 Haldane United
14th March 2015 Thorn Athletic 2 - 0 Haldane United
21st March 2015 Busby 2 - 6 Haldane United
15th April 2015 Haldane United 1 - 2 St Joseph's FP
25th April 2015 Haldane United 1 - 1 Alba Thistle


Haldane United's Scottish Amateur Football League Record:-

2008/09 Division 2A Champions and Coronation Cup Winners Promoted
2009/10 Division 1 Champions Promoted
2010/11 Premier Division Two 2nd Promoted
2011/12 Premier Division One 3rd
2012/13 Premier Division One 2nd Promoted
2013/14 Premier Division 2nd

Haldane's excellent new changing facilities

The Inler Park "Cage"

Action from last season's match at Inler Park

Chris Connolly comes to collect a long throw from Willie Gemmell

Allan Mackay's second half free kick is saved by Chris Connolly

Mattie Rippon nets from the spot to give Saints a 3 - 0 half-time lead

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