Raith Rovers 0 v 1 Queen Of The South

Click here or read below for my match report of Raith Rovers v Queen of the South. It was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Mistake Costs Rovers Dear

Raith Rovers fell to a close 1-0 defeat at the hands of Queen of the South this afternoon.

The Starks Park side dominated possession for the duration of the match, but were handed the sucker punch on the 75th minute when Raith goalkeeper David McGurn sliced a kickout straight to Queens and after some quick passes, Ryan Conroy slotted the ball home.

Raith’s passing was very pretty, but ultimately toothless. However, huge credit must be given to the Queens defence who stood tall and showed great determination.

The result is a blow for Rovers as second placed Dunfermline Athletic lost 2-1 to Greenock Morton, meaning the Kirkcaldy side missed a great chance to pull further clear of their Fife rivals.

Queens visited Starks Park after making two changes to their side. William McLaren and Ryan McGuffie replaced Allan Johnstone and the injured Rocco Quinn, while Rovers swapped Iain Williamson for Stephen Simmons, who had recovered in time from his calf problem.

It was the away side who threatened first as McLaren shot straight into McGurn’s arms, although Rovers created their own chance after good link up play between Gregory Tade and Jamie Mole found John Baird, but his long range effort flew over the bar.

The next twenty minutes saw some very attractive football from the home side, but ultimately their final ball was not good enough to penetrate the deep-sitting Queens defence.

With the home fans beckoning attacking football, Raith started to create a few opportunities. On the 26th minute Allan Walker drifted a free-kick into the Queens box only for Iain Davidson to head straight into David Hutton’s hands.

Three minutes later Tade made a lung bursting run forward but his shot was high and into the stands.

The end of the first half bore witness to more attacking play from Raith and Queens sat back, trying to  keep a clean sheet heading into half time. Craig Wilson, who made many great runs down the right, flew up the pitch, cut inside and his left footed shot drifted wide of the Queens post. Then moments later, Queens failed to clear their lines but a well struck shot from the edge of the box by Simmons was bulleted over.

The second half started off no different from the first, with Raith dominating possession, but Queens had the first opportunity on 59 minutes when Simmons blocked what looked to have been a goal-bound Queens shot.

However, Rovers regained possession and continued their mission of passing through the Queens defence. Unfortunately for the home side, David Lilley and his teammates were stubborn and Raith could only attempt long range efforts from Walker and Wilson, although the latter’s shot was just inches over.

Disaster struck for the Fifers fifteen minutes from time when McGurn, who had been a spectator for most of the match, sliced his kick-out only as far as Derek Holmes who headed the ball forward to McLaren and he set up Conroy perfectly to slot the ball past McGurn with ease.

Raith were stunned but vowed to battle on taking a more direct route, but ultimately Queens comfortably held out for victory.

The Lang Touners must pick themselves up quickly and prepare to travel west for a top of the table clash against fierce rivals Dunfermline next week.

Gratton Has Left The Building

Click here or read below for my article on why the Edinburgh Capitals head coach resigned from the club this week. It was published on http://www.britishicehockey.co.uk/.

Gratton Has Left The Building

Edinburgh Capitals head coach Brad Gratton resigned from his post on Wednesday despite being in only his fourth month in charge. So let the conspiracy stories begin...

One thing for sure is that the timing does seem a little odd. The Capitals last fixture was on Halloween where they fell 4-1 to the Sheffield Steelers in Edinburgh, yet Gratton handed in his resignation on Wednesday morning, just hours before the return fixture against the Steelers.

To add more fuel to the fire, the day after the 4-1 defeat to Sheffield, The Scotsman ran a story with the Canadian-born Gratton where he came out all guns blazing, claiming if the players didn't buck up their ideas “they will sit on the bench or in the stands. I will go down to nine guys. We're losing with fifteen and we can lose with nine." Clearly he was feeling let down by his players.

This backs up a theory amongst some fans that there was unrest in the changing room. However, Scott Neil, the Capitals owner gave a press release on Wednesday after the resignation, which indicated that Gratton actually felt “restricted by the resources” that Edinburgh could offer. So the question is, did Gratton feel that the lack of money and facilities available were holding him back, or was the problem the players?

In an interview published today, The Scotsman managed to get a few words from Gratton as he left. He revealed that he felt the players he had signed could have done a decent job in the Elite League. “I've brought some quality players in here...this group of players has talent.” He then spoke of how he wished “it was a better situation” as “things have not been happening”.

He surely must have known the lack of resources that Edinburgh have for a professional ice hockey team before he accepted the job and his “over the last few weeks, things have not been happening” comment could possibly point to player problems and unrest. If he is adamant that the quality of player is there, then the indication would be that the players were unhappy at something.

This is all pure speculation, but the press release from Neil bemoaning resources could quite easily be a diversion away from dressing room problems. Either way, it has been a disappointing start for the Caps, sitting in 8^th place out of 10. One things for sure, if there is a problem in the dressing room, it needs to be sorted soon or the playoffs will be an impossible target.

Neil may bring in a new coach, or he may try and appoint one of the current players as player/coach and use the extra funds for another player. Slovakian born Martin Cingel could be the perfect choice. He is now in his ninth season at the Capitals and despite his lack of coaching experience, he knows the club through and through. Whether he wants it or not is another question.

Children Collide - Theory Of Everything [Album Review]

Click here or read below for my review of Theory Of Everything by Children Collide. It was published on www.puregrainaudio.com

I reviewed Children Collide's debut album The Long Now earlier this year and felt that with a few extra touches, they could become Australia's best band of today. I gave that album a 9/10 rating and when their follow up album Theory Of Everything was announced to arrive on Australian shelves on August 27th this year, I realised I had become a little sceptical that they could somehow step up another level. Incredibly, they have.

The album starts off in unspectacular fashion with "Future Monks", but when it gives way to lead single "Jellylegs" you can't help but be blown away. The melody and power that this song possesses is nothing but perfection. The ultimate pop-rock song.

There are a few odd moments on the album which add a bit of individuality, as seen on track three "Asleep On My Feet". An unsuspecting intro suddenly cuts into an angst ridden rock song, but although caught out by the sudden change in pace you can't help enjoying it.

"My Eagle" is a return back to pop sensibility and was selected well by the band for their second single. Inevitably, John Mackay's vocals in the song will cause comparisons to Aussie sensations Wolfmother, but I can assure you "My Eagle" is far more satisfying than anything off Wolfmother's latest effort Cosmic Egg (which really should have been entitled Cosmic Trash).

"Arrows" can draw comparisons to a typical Stereophonics effort, but again Children Collide spice things up with the epic "Loveless", proving that the band have more up their sleeve than just loud rock music.

There are twelve tracks on the album and thankfully Children Collide keep up their form right until the last seconds. The final three songs are arguably just as good as the first three, which is quite incredible. Many songs at the end of albums could be described as 'leftovers', but with "Inventions", "Into The Sky With Ivy" and the Sonic Youth-esq "Seven Forks" you could easily be excused for wanting to listen to the whole album again, straight away.

It will take something spectacular to displace Theory Of Everything as the best rock album of the year.

Rating: 9.5/10

Ceremony - "Someday" [Song Review]

Click here or read below for my review of "Someday" by Ceremony. I was published on www.puregrainaudio.com today.

Some of you may have forgotten about Ceremony after they released their debut long play Rocket Fire in April this year. So I'm here to remind you of their brilliance.

"Someday" hit the music waves on January 26th, but despite it's relative modernity you could find yourself taken back to the eighties. New Order's much over-looked debut album Movement is the work that comes to mind when listening to "Someday". Like most early New Order songs it is noisy with distorted and ridiculously reverberating guitar licks. Thankfully, like New Order's efforts it is not overpowering and the solid synthesizer-esq bass helps smooth over the cracks. The accompanying thin drumming and almost emotionless voice of Paul Baker gets as close as it can to Movement without totally ripping it off. Although it must be said that seeking Ceremony's originality isn't helped by the fact that New Order released a song called "Ceremony"...

Enough of the comparisons.  Ceremony have their own sound and are (just) unique enough. Any fans of shoegaze really should give Rocket Fire a good hard listen and if not, at the very least try "Someday". It has plenty of melody packed together and I doubt many would be left disappointed after three blissful minutes. There is also the added bonus of actually being able to hear what Baker is singing, a rarity for a shoegaze band. Most singers appear to sing at their microphones through a brick wall.

Sure, there has been more than enough soft but noisy bands recently, but Ceremony are definitely one of the best.

Run Time: 3:25

Rating: 8/10

Greenock Morton 0 v 1 Raith Rovers

Click here, or read below for my match report of Greenock Morton v Raith Rovers which took place this afternoon. The report was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

 Table Topping Rovers Send Morton Rock Bottom

Greenock Morton lumbered to a narrow defeat against table topping Raith Rovers at Cappielow Park this afternoon. Apart from numerous long range efforts, the home side struggled to threaten the Rovers goal and despite throwing men forward at the end, the Fifers held on.

Raith were the better team in what was a fairly scrappy affair and would have been disappointed to go in at half time without a goal to show for their efforts.

The second half failed to see an improvement in quality but Allan Walker snatched the points away from Morton on the 61st minute as he belted the ball past Colin Stewart. His strike condemns Morton to bottom while it keeps Rovers on top.

Rovers tried to pass the ball around right from the start, but Morton had an early chance headed over by Allan Jenkins.

Raith had their first opportunities through a powerful Grant Murray header and a Jamie Mole cross which caused problems for Stewart in the Morton goal.

The Kirkcaldy side then tried to convert their possession into goals on 15th minute as Mole cut a ball across goal but Morton crowded out the onrushing Walker.

Gregory Tade drilled a ball across goal without any takers before Stewart pushed a rasping Iain Williamson shot up in the air and Stuart McCaffrey headed the ball over for a corner.

John Baird had two chances as first Walker and then Craig Wilson aimed two crosses at the striker. Baird's first effort failed to find the target but after Tade did great work down the right hand side to release Wilson, the receiving Baird met the ball perfectly but lashed it into the side-netting.

Despite Morton being on the back foot for the majority of the half, they still managed to carve open a great opportunity on the 37th minute. Brian Graham had the beating of Laurie Ellis in the box and from a tight angle stroked the ball inches wide of the post, but credit must go to Raith keeper' David McGurn who looked Schmeichel-like as he made himself as big as possible.

Rovers fans were shouting for a penalty as the half drew to a close when Baird’s run into the box was halted by a blatant body-check by Smyth.

Morton came out in the second half looking to cause a few problems in the Rovers defence with Michael Tidser curling a shot over the bar and Allan Jenkins heading over from a corner.

However, on the 57th minute Rovers went close again when Baird drove a fierce shot only to see a Morton defender block the effort away on the six yard line.

Baird then stung the palms of Stewart moments after McGurn had dealt with a Tidser shot comfortably.

The next attack saw Raith finally take the lead. Wilson's deflected pile-driver fell to the unmarked Walker who drove the ball at goal and despite a strong palm thrown in the way, Stewart couldn't keep the ball from nestling in the back of the net.

Graham Weir, who replaced Tade had an effort saved on the 86th minute, before Allan Moore pushed his team forward in search of a dramatic late equaliser.

Marc Smyth and Tidser hit long range shots over the bar, but the best chance for Morton to equalise came on the 89th minute. With Rovers defenders scrambling around Graham, he turned and watched his shot crawl inches past the post with McGurn scrambling.

However, it wasn't to be Morton's day and the result means they now prop up the rest of the division. On the other hand, Rovers keep up their lofty position and hold Dunfermline in second place below them in the league table.

Picture © Jim Foy

written by Will Lyon

Edinburgh's Silver Swimmer

Click on the picture or read below for my interview with Commonwealth Games silver medallist Michael Jamieson. It was published in The Student today.

 Edinburgh's Silver Swimmer

Will Lyon speaks exclusively to Commonwealth Games swimming silver medallist Michael Jamieson...

22 year-old Michael Jamieson was just 0.08 seconds from a Commonwealth gold medal in last month’s Delhi games. The Edinburgh University Swim Team member was denied first place in the Men's 200 metre breaststroke competition by Australian, Brenton Rickard, and had to settle for silver.

Teammate Kris Gilchrist stated that himself and Jamieson felt they could grab a one-two finish, so disappointment was the first emotion experienced by the pair as they finished 5th and 2nd respectively. However, since then, Jamieson has realised his achievement.

“I was a bit disappointed at first, but over the last few days, especially in the second week in Delhi, it really started to sink in.

“We got to see a few different events and I think as it sunk in I got more and more chuffed with it.

“Some people were saying that it came as a bit of a surprise that I was on the podium in the first place but it wasn’t a surprise to me, I was always looking at getting on the podium this season.

“Obviously with the race being so close I hope it’s been looked at with a fresh attitude really because I think that the fact I was disappointed shows that I definitely feel there’s more in the tank.”

Jamieson has taken a lot of confidence from his showing in Delhi and believes that the organisation of Team Scotland was key to his success.

“I managed to qualify for the world student games last year which outside of the Commonwealth and Olympics is the only other multi sport event.

“I learnt a lot last year being at the athletes village which helped me prepare for the experience in Delhi.

“Again, I’ve learnt a lot over the last few weeks, just about how resolute we had to be, staying healthy and to avoid illness.

“I think I was quite lucky in that respect as there was a lot of swimmers especially in the Australian and Canadian teams  that struggled with illness as the games went on.

“That was down to the preparation that we had, so it really helped us to be wary of it.

“We had a trip to Delhi in September last year just to see the site. Then we had a few try runs from the village to the pool to get an idea the time it would take and how the transport would run. So I think the Scottish team had of an advantage in that respect, we knew what to expect.”

Leading up to the games there were concerns over the state of the athlete’s accommodation, but Jamieson felt it had no impact on his performance.

“The block we were initially supposed to be in was one of the poor ones but when we got there it was fine.

“We were prepared for anything really due to the reports in the media leading up to the games, but we were pleasantly surprised when we arrived!

“It was a bit rough round the edges and it wasn’t completely finished, but there were no major faults.”

Looking towards the future, Jamieson spoke of his ultimate goal, an Olympic gold medal. He then revealed how he is trying to achieve it.

“I’m sure my goal is the same as hundreds of other athletes but I want to win Olympic gold, definitely.

“Looking at the final in the 200 metre last week, there were five Brits involved and only 2 are selected for the Olympic Games.

“The Olympic trials is going to be for everyone involved, probably the biggest and most important point of your career.

“I’ve had a detailed plan and goal system over the past few years and I’m on schedule.

“I was to get a medal in Delhi and that was the goals for this season and it’s encouraging to be on target, but there’s a lot of work to be done.”

When asked if he felt any pressure to get an Olympic gold, Jamieson was quick to suggest otherwise.

“I’m responsible for the amount of pressure I put on my shoulders and I think that’s something I’ve had to work on in the last couple of years.

“Coming through the ranks as a junior I used to put a lot of pressure of myself and it would really affect me if I didn’t reach my goals, but I’ve learned how to adapt to that.

“I take confidence from every event that I compete in. I felt really relaxed competing in Delhi, I’ve struggled with nerves in the past, but I feel like I’ve matured in the last 18 months and I’m really comfortable competing in that environment.”

Born in Scotland, Jamieson is keen not to forget his roots, despite acheiving international success. Although he has also been coached in Paris and Bath he could only praise Uni's coaches and teammates who helped form the person he is today.

"The programme at Edinburgh Uni has been a great help over the last couple of years.

"Moving to Paris was a great experience and I still miss the city, however,  I’ve still got a really good relationship with Chris Jones, the head coach in Edinburgh.

"He's done a amazing job with that program and he’s the one responsible for the progress the team has made.

"Last year I went back up to Edinburgh for a few months and spent some time with the squad and the facilities they have at St Leonards are perfect for a performance group.

"I’m always happy to be associated with a team like that."

However, Jamieson must look towards the future and it would be fair to say that his Commonwealth success has only increased his enthusiasm.

Jamieson clearly has the potential to realise his Olympic dream and he hopes that in two years time he can achieve glory at the London Olympic Games.

"It's just under 18 months to go now till the Olympic trials. Over the last couple of weeks I’ve had a nice wee break but now I can’t wait to get stuck into the new season!"

Raith Rovers 1 v 0 Ross County [Match Report]

Click here for my match report of Raith Rovers v Ross County which took place this afternoon. It was published on the Official Raith Rovers website.

Cowdenbeath 1 v 2 Raith Rovers [Match Report]

Click here for my match report of the fixture between Cowdenbeath and Raith Rovers that took place this afternoon.

Raith Rovers 0 v 2 Stirling Albion [Match Report]

Click here or read below for my match report on Raith Rovers v Stirling Albion. It was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Rovers Blow Golden Chance 

Raith Rovers blew a fantastic opportunity to send themselves back to the top of the First Division table this afternoon when they lost 2-0 to Stirling Albion at Starks Park.

Table toppers Dunfermline Athletic lost 2-0 to Queen of the South at Palmerston Park, but Raith failed to leapfrog them after blundering numerous second half chances.

Kick off was delayed for a short time when one of referee Collum’s assistants had to pull out due to an injury. The call went out for a replacement from the crowd and was answered by Chris Phillips whose dad Tom is the Supporters’ representative on the board at Stark’s Park.


Chris Phillips takes up his position on the touchline Stirling Albion had the best chances of the first half and after Stephen Simmons brought down Chris Aitkin in the box on the stroke of half time, the former Ayr United skipper stepped up and sent the away side in with a one goal advantage.

Rovers had ample chances to equalise as Willie Dyer rattled the crossbar, John Baird shot inches wide and Mark Ferry was denied by a goal line clearance, but when Gordon Smith found himself one-on-one with David McGurn he made no mistake and sealed the three points for Albion.

The start of the match was a little tentative although Ferry, Craig Wilson and Grant Murray all had half chances for Raith in the first fifteen minutes, while McGurn made a great reaction save from former Rover, Ryan Borris.

Borris was causing problems again on the 19th minute as he beat two defenders on the edge of the Raith box, but Murray flung himself in the way of his goal bound effort to concede a corner. After initially clearing the corner, Wilson gave the ball back to Albion but again the Kirkcaldy side were saved by the diving Murray who blocked Aitkin’s shot wide of the post.

Aitkin was instrumental in midfield and he threaded through a great pass to Nathan Taggart and Rovers had McGurn to thank as he made a fantastic leg save from the winger.


McGurn keeps Taggart out with a great block Rovers turned up the heat as Gregory Tade hit over with an overhead kick and Allan Walker headed wide of the post, but it was Stirling’s Aitkin who was causing the most havoc.


Tade tries an overhead effort that went just over On the 40th minute Aitkin played a lovely one-two with Taggart but Aitkin’s effort hit the side netting.

Four minutes later, referee William Collum pointed to the spot as Aitkin was brought down by Simmons and although it was definitely a foul, there was some debate about whether the challenge was made in or outside of the box.

Aitkin stepped up and rattled the ball straight down the middle to send the away side in at the break one goal to the good.


GOAL: Aitken sends his spot kick past McGurn
Raith started the second half with nerves and could have been punished straight away, but somehow Borris missed the target after cutting into the box well.

The home support encouraged their side forward and the team responded with some fantastic opportunities.

Ferry was unlucky to see his powerful header cleared off the line by Taggart before Dyer rasped a 25 yard shot off the Albion bar with Reidford well beaten, Walker got a diving header to the rebound but the Bino’s keeper did well to touch it over the bar.


Dyer’s shot has Reidford beaten but it crashed back off the bar Raith were camped in the Stirling half and Murray had one attempt deflected wide of the goal and then headed another over the bar. Moment later, Scott Robertson was lucky not to score an own goal as he nearly diverted a Baird cross into his own net.

On the 65th minute another chance went amiss when Iain Davidson fed a delightful ball through to Baird but the former Airdrie man missed the target by inches.

Raith were all over the visitors at this point but John McGlynn felt that a bigger aerial threat was required with Tade and Ferry making way for Jamie Mole and defender Mark Campbell. Both subs made their way upfront to try and knock down long balls.

However, the substitutions appeared to work in Stirling’s favour as Rovers struggled to keep their rhythm going.

Graham Weir replaced the tiring Baird and as Raith pushed up the pitch it was inevitable that Stirling would catch their opponents on the break.

First of all Stirling substitute Sylvano Comvalius found himself one-on-one with McGurn and the Rovers keeper’ saved well.

Weir fired a wayward drive on the 89th minute before Stirling sealed the points one minute later.

Aitkin turned supplier as he released a great ball to Smith who ran the entire Raith half and although McGurn made himself big, Smith found a way past him and celebrated his goal with the ecstatic Albion fans.


GOAL: Smith sends the ball past McGurn to seal the points Rovers tried in vain to get another goal although Campbell should have done better from seven yards as he hit a vicious shot over the bar, but in truth, the game was already over.


Sparky had a great chance but sent the ball over from 7 yards All in all, a bad day at the office for the Rovers and a fantastic scalp for Stirling, who drag themselves further away from the bottom of the league table.

Pictures © Jim Foy

written by Will Lyon

Third Lanark

Click on the picture below to read my article on Third Lanark and their home, Cathkin Park. The article was furstly published in the official Raith Rovers matchday programme 'The Rover' on 2nd October 2010. You can also click this link or read below as it was then published on the 11th November 2010 at the Away End's website.

Cathkin Park: The forgotten home of Scottish Football

Efforts being made to restore a piece of Scottish history By Will Lyon

Cathkin Park has an eerie feel to it these days. After all, it was around 43 years ago that it's occupiers Third Lanark went bust and departed the ground.

Being only 21-years-old when I visited the ground this summer I found it hard to imagine the 45,455 spectators crammed in to watch Third Lanark take on Rangers in a 1954 Scottish Cup Third Round tie.

This is because all that remains now is a section of the original wall, a crumbling terrace littered with rubbish and tall trees which have shot up around the pitch.

An amateur Glasgow side still play football at Cathkin Park but now the majority of it's visitors are dog walkers and local teenagers who find themselves at a loose end at night.




History


Third Lanark are normally the only league side associated with Cathkin Park but it was actually Queens Park who owned the ground when it first opened in 1884, although back then, the name it possessed was Hampden Park.

19 years later The Spiders sold the ground to Third Lanark who renamed it New Cathkin Park and for the next 61 years The Hi-Hi's played senior football on the famous pitch.

Thirds were a fairly successful team in their complete 95 year history, winning the Scottish Football League, Scottish First Division, Scottish Cup and were also runners up of the Scottish League Cup. Their attendances reflect their success as they were fairly consistent right up to the end.

Before Queens Park sold the ground, Cathkin Park played host to two international matches. In fact, on 15 March 1884 the first all-ticket match ever was held at the stadium when Scotland welcomed England north of the border for a hostile fixture.



The Future 


Sadly, it is unlikely that Cathkin Park will become anything like it was in it's heyday, with the main stand, the roof covering the opposite terracing and the quaint pavilion all now completely gone. However, work is being done to restore some of it's former pride.

Scottish actor Simon Weir has begun work on restoring the ground, after finding out that his great-grandfather John Weir played for Third Lanark during the 1910's.

He updates his blog 'Friends Of Cathkin Park' regularly with discoveries of old photos, videos, stories and also a commentary of how his restoration work is proceeding.

The original wall that remains around half of the ground contains graffiti and 43 years of mould, yet Weir has been trying his best to scrub it all away.

Whether you have watched a competitive fixture at Cathkin Park, or weren't even born when Third Lanark disbanded, I would recommend you take a day out to visit the park. To stand on the touchline today and imagine the amount of quality players who strutted their stuff on the pitch in front of thousands of adoring fans almost half a century ago and beyond, is quite something.

You can check out Simon Weir's progress at: http://thirdlanark.blogspot.com/

Women's Rugby Firmly On The Rise

Click on the picture below for my interview with Rosalind Murphy of Edinburgh Uni and Scotland rugby teams. The article was published in The Student.

Edinburgh Athletes Go For Gold

Click on the picture below for my article on Edinburgh Uni athletes who are travelling to India to compete in the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Raith Rovers 2 v 1 Falkirk [Match Report]

Click here or read below for my match report on Raith Rovers v Falkirk. It was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Rovers Battle Hard To Beat The Bairns Raith Rovers 2-1 Falkirk 25 Sep 2010: Irn Bru Scottish 1st Division Raith Rovers kept the pressure on table-toppers Dunfermline Athletic this afternoon as they came from a goal behind to win 2-1 against Falkirk. Falkirk took an early lead after Raith defender Laurie Ellis hesitated a moment too long, allowing Ryan Flynn to nip in and put the away side ahead. Rovers turned up the heat and found a more than deserved equaliser, when Gregory Tade capitalised on a mistake by Robert Olejnik and placed a shot into the empty Falkirk net. The second half was a stale affair but after Falkirk fans were soaked by sprinklers in front of the McDermid Stand, Rovers found the winning goal when Willie Dyer fired in a long range effort to secure three points for the Starks Park side. Raith almost scored a lucky goal after just four minutes when Stephen Simmons hit a cross-cum-shot, only to see his effort narrowly miss the target. However, it was the away side who took the lead first. Mark Stewart threaded a fairly harmless pass into the Rovers box but Ellis seemed to be caught in two minds and missed the ball. Flynn didn't need any further encouragement as he slotted the ball past David McGurn with ease. Rovers responded in positive fashion when Iain Davidson headed narrowly wide and Craig Wilson saw his long range effort whistle past the post. However, the Starks Park side appeared to have lady luck on their side as Falkirk failed to find the net after two stramashes in the Rovers box. Allan Walker then saw his free-kick well saved by Olejnik before Raith had a golden opportunity to equalise on the 36th minute. Wilson crossed a delightful ball into the Falkirk area but Mark Ferry and Tade found themselves in the way of each other and the ball trickled out for a goal kick. One minute later, Raith's frustration turned to joy as Falkirk defender Brian McLean and Olejnik were caught in two minds after a long ball up the pitch and Tade capitalised on the indecisiveness, nipping in and coolly passing the ball into the back of the empty net. Rovers now had a spring in their step and put Falkirk under tremendous pressure for the remaining minutes of the first period, but Walker, Wilson and Simmons couldn't find the net with their efforts. Just two minutes before the break Rovers had a penalty claim dismissed by referee Steve Conroy as McLean clearly handled the ball in the box, but the whistle blower suggested it had been ball to hand. The second half began at a slow pace and aside from a tame Carl Finnigan effort, the first moment of entertainment in the half arrived fifteen minutes in when the Falkirk fans at the front of the McDermid stand received a soaking from a sprinkler. Chants alleging the lack of soap and water to be found in Falkirk quickly ensued from the amused home support. Unfortunately the second half witnessed play becoming bogged down in the centre of the pitch, but this all changed twelve minutes from time. Dyer was given far too much time and space down the left wing and he fired a speculative effort into the Falkirk goal. As Dyer's shot was heading towards goal, substitute Iain Williamson appeared to distract Olejnik as he cut across his line of vision and the ball rolled into the bottom corner of the net. Steven Pressley urged his side on in search of an equaliser and John McGlynn responded by bringing on defender Mark Campbell for his first appearance in a league match since a 2-1 defeat to Greenock Morton in January. Falkirk's pressure was dealt with well by the Kirkcaldy side, as they limited their opponents to one last chance when substitute Mark Millar fired a freekick into the Rovers box but McLean could only head past the post. Raith sit one point behind leaders Dunfermline at the top of the League table and are now five clear of third placed Falkirk. Pictures © Jim Foy written by Will Lyon

Soundpool - Mirrors In Your Eyes [Album Review]

Click here or read below for my review of Soundpool's new album entitled 'Mirrors In Your Eyes'. It was published on PureGrainAudio.com

 

  Soundpool - Mirrors In Your Eyes

Soundpool's record label, Killer Pimp, start off their biography of the band with a sentence containing the words "explosive third album." They have it wrong, completely wrong. Mirrors In Your Eyes is not 'explosive,' but wish-washy and dreamy. Although it did not come as a surprise to see them signed to the same label as A Place To Bury Strangers, to be fair to the latter, they actually provide moments of magic that keep you interested.

Although the above paragraphs may come across in a negative fashion, Soundpool are actually a decent band. The music is soft and melodic thanks to some lovely smooth bass-lines, slithering synthesizers, harmonic vocals and relaxed drums. You would be hard pushed to find a 'weak' song or indeed a terrible one.

While taking each song as one single entity is fine, a problem arises when you stick them all together. It would be too simplistic to say all the songs are the same, but unfortunately that is the term that Mirrors In Your Eyes will be labelled with. You hear the first track and greet it with open arms, but three tracks down the line you have forgotten that there is any music
playing at all.

It is the perfect record to fall asleep to as it glitters and glistens over your ears, but it really fails to keep the listener's attention. All the album needed was one or two tracks to take a different direction or just a change of pace. Unfortunately Soundpool have failed to do so and therefore produced a boring album.

Rating: 5 / 10

Track Listing:

01. Mirrors In Your Eyes
02. But It's so
03. Kite Of Love
04. Makes No Sense
05. Sparkle In The Dark
06. I'm So Tired
07. That Sunny Day
08. Shelter
09. Listen

Run Time: 45:56
Release Date: 04.27.2010

Whirlwind White Is Back

Click on the picture below for my interview with snooker legend Jimmy "Whirlwind" White. It was published in The Student.

What Is The World Coming To?

Click the picture below for my column article on lies, conspiracies and cheating in the world of sport. It was published in The Student today.

Aberdeen v Raith Rovers [Preview]

Click here or read below for my preview of the Co-operative Insurance Third Round fixture between Aberdeen and Raith Rovers due to take place tomorrow night.

Aberdeen FC v Raith Rovers FC 22/09/2010

After two goalless draws in league business over the last two weeks, Raith Rovers aim to knock top flight Aberdeen out of the Co-operative Insurance Cup on Wednesday evening at Pittodrie. It was just seven months ago that the Rovers travelled up to Aberdeen and knocked Mark McGhee's men out of the Scottish Cup.
          There's no doubt that McGhee will be more determined than ever to make sure that the result isn't repeated this time around.
          However, it won't be an easy task. Aberdeen played very defensive tactics against Motherwell on Saturday as they drew 1-1, because key players such as Peter Pawlett, Fraser Fyvie, Sone Aluko and Andrius Velicka were all missing through injury. It is likely that McGhee will be without all four of those players on Wednesday too.
          The Rovers still have long term absentees Dougie Hill and Mark Campbell on the sidelines, although Campbell played 45 minutes of the reserve game last week which is encouraging for the Kirkcaldy side.
          Mark's brother, Martyn recently spoke to Will Lyon, who was writing and reporting on behalf of the 200 Club. Martyn confirmed that his brother was still struggling after his car crash in February and is unlikely to feature against the Dons.          
          "He's got a wee bit to go. He's still taking it easy, trying to build it (His knee) up. It's been a long process but at the end of the day it's something you would take, he was very lucky!"
          Mark has been at the Rovers since 2006 and Martyn revealed that rumours of his brother joining him at Ayr United over a season ago were unfounded. "There was talk about that at one point because he does a lot of miles. But he decided he wanted to stay at Raith as he was enjoying it so much, the travelling wasn't much of an issue."

Players to watch........
Aberdeen - The Dons are suffering numerous injuries to their flair players at the moment, although former Rover Paul Hartley will be looking to dictate play in the middle of the park.
Raith Rovers - Obviously Gregory Tade will be the one to watch as the Frenchman scored the goal that knocked Aberdeen out of the cup last season. Meanwhile, at the back Grant Murray and Laurie Ellis will be determined to keep a sixth clean sheet in a row to help the Rovers progress to the next round.

Snooker Stars Set For Glasgow Showpiece

Click on the picture below for my interview with snooker star Alan McManus ahead of his appearance at the World Open tournament set to take place in Glasgow over the next week.

It was published in The Student today.

Former Uni Stars Live Life In The Big League

Click on the picture below for interviews with former Uni stars Jamie Redman and Scott Fusco which were carried out by Alistair Shand and myself.

The article was published in The Student today.

Campbell's Car Crash Nightmare

Click here or read below for my interview with Martyn Campbell in relation to his brother's injury which he sustained in a car crash seven months ago.

It was published on The Away End. 

Campbell's Car Crash Nightmare

Two weeks from now, Raith Rovers will face Aberdeen at Pittodrie for the first time since they humilated The Dons with a 1-0 win in last year's Scottish Cup Fifth Round.

Mark Campbell

Mark Campbell, the stand in captain at the time for crocked midfielder Iain Davidson, was tragically hurt in a car crash just days before the replay fixture and could only cheer the famous Rovers victory from his hospital bed.

Seven months down the line it looks as if the big center half is likely to miss this CIS Cup Third Round fixture because he is still suffering from the injuries sustained in the accident.

Martyn Campbell

Martyn Campbell, a center half for Ayr United, explains his brother's fight for fitness to make the Aberdeen game.

"At the moment it doesn't look as if he'll be playing at the minute.

"He was just taking it week by week but then one of his knees was giving him a bit of pain so he went to see a specialist.”

The specialist's prognosis was to slow down the training that Mark was undertaking, which was a major set back as the 32-year-old felt he was just weeks away from first team football.

However, Martyn feels that his brother should just be thankful for his life after he was cut out of his car by emergency services after the accident.

“He's now just taking it easy and he's just light running and stuff.

“He'll be gutted (if he misses the Aberdeen game) as they're flying at the moment, but he was very lucky and at the end of the day it’s something you would take.”

Favourites

Despite their well known tendency to lose against lower league opposition, Aberdeen beat Second Division Alloa Athletic in the last round. A home tie against First Division Raith was their reward and there's no doubt that the SPL side are the favourites to progress in the competition.

Rovers beat local rivals East Fife in the first round, but they will take confidence from the fact that they have already taken one SPL scalp this season, after a 1-0 win over Hamilton Academical in the previous round.

Scotland v Liechtenstein [Match Preview]

Click here or read below for my preview of Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifying fixture between Scotland and Liechtenstein.

Time For Scotland To Bring The Flair

The scene is set for Scotland's crucial clash against Liechtenstein at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

It's a game that has been labled as a 'must win' for Scotland ever since the SFA confirmed the Euro 2012 qualification fixtures in February of this year. 

If anyone expects this to be a complete walkover for the boys in blue, then they should think again as on their day Liechtenstein can compete.

After all, just one month ago the 141st ranked side held Iceland to a 1-1 draw in Reykjavik.

However, Scotland are ranked by Fifa exactly 100 places above their visitors and the bookies have had no problems deciding a favourite.

Scotland must take confidence from the fact that Liechtenstein hardly possess world beaters in their side.

However, their most capped player is Mario Frick and the 35-year-old currently plays for Swiss Super League side FC St. Gallen. He's scored 14 international goals and despite coming to the end of his career, can still be a threat.

The majority of Liechtenstein's players ply their trade in their home land which is nothing to boast about due to their sides competing in the lower echelons of the Swiss leagues.

Scotland on the other hand contain English Premier League players such as Darren Fletcher and the lively James McFadden.

McFadden is one of the players described by Scotland boss Craig Levein as a 'flair' player and he is expected to start against the Liechtensteiners.

Unfortunately for the loyal Tartan Army, Scotland were severely lacking flair and excitement on Friday evening as they began their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with a 0-0 draw against a stuffy Lithuania side.

Barry Robson suffered a terrible night after many poor free-kicks attempts and Scott Brown struggled to be involved in the match.

It is expected that Levein will look toward McFadden and other attacking options such as Graham Dorrans and Kris Boyd for the all important fixture on Tuesday.

Anything less than three points will probably mean that Scotland's qualifying campaign is over before it started. If so, more points will be required off 31st placed Czech Republic and European and world champions, Spain. This will be something that Scotland wish to avoid.

We're Class On The Grass

Click on the picture below to read my interview with Martin Bavidge of Peterhead, ahead of his side's Alba Cup Quarter Final clash against Stenhousemuir on Sunday. It was published in today's Scottish Sun.

Give Us A Break

Click on the picture below for my interview with Ayr United stopper Martyn Campbell ahead of his side's visit to Partick Thistle in the Alba Cup Quarter Final.

It was published in today's Scottish Sun.

We Are Linn It To Win It

Click the picture below to read my interview with Steve Hislop ahead of East Fife's Alba Cup fixture against Queen of the South.

The article was published in The Scottish Sun today.

Board Right To Axe Dick

Click the picture below to read my interview with Scott Boyd ahead of Ross County's Alba Cup fixture against Forfar Athletic.

The article was published in The Scottish Sun today.

Raith Rovers 1 v 0 Greenock Morton

Click here or read below for my match report of the Irn Bru First Division fixture between Raith Rovers and Greenock Morton which took place this afternoon. It was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Rovers Maintain 100% Record 

Tade slots home from close range

Raith Rovers continued their winning streak as they turned over Greenock Morton 1-0 at Starks Park this afternoon.

The game looked to be heading for a goalless draw until Gregory Tade slotted home six minutes from time.

The Morton players looked devastated at full time and probably deserved to take something from the match after a solid defensive performance.

Raith were the better team in the first half with two opportunities falling to John Baird early on. The home side almost took the lead on the 13th minute when Grant Murray hit an effort at goal from an Allan Walker corner but Colin Stewart was in the right place at the right time and pushed the ball away.


Minutes later, Morton had a good chance themselves but David McGurn palmed away Michael Tidser’s freekick.

The Kirkcaldy side proceeded to dominate large spells of the half. Walker saw his freekick saved while Mark Ferry and Baird narrowly missed the target with their efforts.


Despite dominating the opening period, Rovers should have gone into the break a goal down. Peter Weatherston passed a ball through to the unmarked Allan Jenkins on the penalty spot, but the midfielder couldn’t connect cleanly and McGurn saved.


The second half was a different story as Morton appeared to step up a gear. Ten minutes after the break Carlo Monti found himself in the way of a team-mate’s shot and fortunately for Rovers the rebound flashed wide of the post.

Morton continued to carve out the chances as Kean fired over the bar; Graeme Holmes found the side netting and McGurn saved a stinger from Weatherston.

The match started to become scrappy and looked set for a goalless draw until substitute Jamie Mole’s shot fell to Tade and the Frenchman sent the ball home from inside the box.


Three minutes later Mole was causing more problems as his shot from the edge of the box ended up just inches wide of the post.

Allan Moore pushed his players up the pitch but Raith held out for the win, meaning they have now picked up 12 points out of 12 on league business.

The defeat was Morton’s second of the season and the Greenock club sit just 1 point above Partick Thistle who occupy the relegation playoff place.

Meanwhile, Raith march on and remain 3 points clear of Fife rivals Dunfermline at the top of the league table where they will remain over the international break. However, John McGlynn’s side have two tricky away ties against Ross County and Dundee next and will have to keep working hard to maintain their position.

Blanc Faces - Falling From The Moon

Click here or read below for my review of Blanc Faces' album entitled Falling From The Moon. It was published on www.puregrainaudio.com.

Sometimes you have to wonder why music critics continue to provide positive reviews of albums that contain sounds that we've all heard before. While Falling From The Moon is packed to the rafters with rhyming sentimental lyrics and Robbie LaBlanc may possess an easy-to-listen-to voice, it is nothing short of dull. The LaBlanc brothers clearly possess talent and it is a shame that they waste a considerable portion of it by repeating the same songs that the world listened to in the 80s.

Frustratingly, there is actually little wrong with the album technically. It fits together well, but once you have heard one song there is no point in listening on because the next track after it will contain the same love-centric lyrics, the same slow paced rhythm guitars and will be topped with a cheesy solo. It is not sinful to produce music that has it's roots in a different decade, but there is no need to be so utterly bland by copying Bon Jovi et al.

If most rock music lovers enjoy listening to this album I'll be shocked. Sure, there will be people who enjoyed the 80s music scene and will feel sentimental hearing Falling From The Moon, but unfortunately, Blanc Faces are producing very little for the modern music fan.

Falling From The Moon lacks personality and depth. People can relate to emotional music, but when it continues in the same manner for another 45 minutes they will often lose interest. Unless you want to learn about how 'It's All About The Love' and that it's 'Deep In The Heart' backed with some middle-of-the-road music, then stay well away. 

Rating: 3/10


Track Listing:

01. I Come Alive
02. Falling From The Moon
03. I Swear To You
04. Everything
05. It's All About The Love
06. Goodbye Summer Goodbye
07. Deep In The Heart
08. Don't Take It Away
09. Like A Believer
10. Light Of The World
11. I Will
12. Fly

Run Time: 47:18
Release Date: 24/11/2009

Raith Rovers 1 v 0 Hamilton Academical [Match Report]

Click here or read below for my match report of the Co-operative Insurance Cup Second Round fixture between Raith Rovers and Hamilton Academical. The match report was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Ferry Sinks Accies

Mark Ferry scored the only goal of the game as First Division Raith knocked Premier League Hamilton out of the CIS Cup.

At one goal to the good Rovers had a chance to double their lead as Derek Lyle pulled Mark Ferry’s shirt in the box, but Gregory Tade saw his penalty saved by the leaping Tomas Cerny. 

Despite Hamilton manager Billy Reid urging his team up the pitch for a final crusade, Raith held strong and progressed to the third round.

It was the Lanarkshire side that came flying out of the traps in the first period and they should have taken an early lead when a deflected freekick fell to the unmarked Joel Thomas who narrowly missed the target.

The game began to even out with Marco Paixao keeping David McGurn busy in the Rovers goal, while Tade’s cross-come-shot flashed over the roof of Accies net, much to the relief of the stranded Cerny, and Baird also sent a shot wide of the target

Moments later, the Hamilton keeper’ did well to tip Allan Walker’s powerful freekick wide of the post, before Thomas missed another fantastic opportunity for Accies. Willie Dyer lost his footing as a cross arrived into the Rovers box, but Thomas headed over the bar from just six yards, meaning the sides headed into the break goalless.

This time it was the home team that started the half brighter. A corner on the 52nd minute was flicked on by Laurie Ellis before a succession of shots were fired towards goal. Ferry came the closest to scoring when 

Cerny did well to push his close range effort wide of the post.

Reid sensed his side were struggling and quickly subbed Thomas and Gary McDonald for the fresh legs of Grant Gillespie and Jon Routledge. One minute after their arrival Dougie Imrie found a way through the Rovers defence and hit a shot inches over the crossbar.

However, ten minutes later the Kirkcaldy side were causing more problems. Stephen Simmons played a delightful cross ball to Tade and the Frenchman cut inside supplying a powerful cross into the six yard box, only to see the sliding Walker hit the ball over the bar.

Ferry Connects To Put Rovers Ahead

Rovers were now well on top and the 68th minute Cerny parried a shot from the clean through Tade, but Ferry was on hand to blast the rebound into the back of the empty net.

The Starks Park side appeared to tire, yet Accies fans watched in despair as Flavio Paixao failed to connect with a deep Imrie cross and James McAllister fired wide in the box when he should have been hitting the target.

The contest appeared to be over on the 84th minute when referee Eddie Smith pointed to the spot after Ferry’s shirt was pulled in the box by substitute Lyle. However, Cerny saved Tade’s strike.

With only one goal in it, Reid pushed his team forward in the dying minutes but the closest they came to scoring was a 25-yard freekick from Imrie, which stung the palms of McGurn.

Hamilton’s losing run continues, however Rovers find themselves on a five game winning streak and will be looking to continue their rich vein of form on Saturday as they face Greenock Morton at Starks Park.

Picture © Jim Foy.

Written by Will Lyon

Raith Rovers 2 v 0 Dunfermline Athletic [Match Report]

Click here or read below for my match report of the Irn-Bru First Division fixture between Raith Rovers & Dunfermline Athletic. It was published on the official Raith Rovers website.

Derby Day Delight For Rovers

Two second half goals in five minutes sent Raith Rovers three points clear at the top of the Scottish First Division this afternoon.

Substitute Iain Davidson broke the deadlock on the 73rd minute and just five minutes later Laurie Ellis doubled Rovers’ advantage to send the home side on their way to three points.

Dunfermline had a host of great opportunities in the first half but failed to take advantage and were punished by a determined Raith side, despite striker John Baird missing a penalty on the 49th minute.

It was the Starks Park side who dominated the first fifteen minutes of the match, but apart from an Iain Williamson header Rovers had nothing to show for their hard work.

Dunfermline started to see more of the ball and on the 23rd minute Nick Phinn had a great chance to put the away side ahead as he ran the length of the Rovers half, waltzing past the defence, but his effort wasn’t clinical and David McGurn made a comfortable save.

Minutes later, midfielder Stephen Simmons passed straight to Dunfermline’s Willie Gibson and McGurn was relieved to see the winger’s shot flash past his post.

Ellis had a shot saved by Chris Smith before Gibson was causing more problems with a dangerous corner on the 33rd minute. Rovers fans had Willie Dyer to thank as the full back kicked Andy Kirk’s goal-bound header off the line.

The Pars continued to press forward before the break, but Joe Cardle and Chris Higgins couldn’t make their shots count.

Raith started the second half with real desire and they were rewarded with a penalty on the 48th minute. Mark Ferry clipped a lovely ball through to John Baird who was brought down by the outrushing Smith. Baird, the First Division’s top goal scorer had his head in his hands moments later as Smith made amends for his mistake with a great save from the striker’s penalty kick.

Despite the disappointment of missing a golden opportunity, it didn’t seem to affect Rovers as they began to match their rivals in all areas of the pitch, but they again came close to losing a goal on the 70th minute when Phinn’s swerving effort clipped the crossbar.

Rovers punished Dunfermline for wasting their chances when just minutes later Davidson broke the deadlock. Allan Walker’s cross was bundled in by the club captain minute with one of his first touches of the ball.

Raith now had the momentum and just five minutes later they sealed the game with Walker the provider again. The midfielder’s corner was met by the onrushing Ellis and the ball rebounded off Smith and into the back of the net.

Dunfermline now looked demoralised and they should have been three goals down seven minutes before time. Substitute Jamie Mole did some great work down the right wing, slotting a great ball through two Dunfermline defenders, but with all the time and space in the world Gregory Tade scuffled the ball wide of the post.

In the end Tade’s miss didn’t matter and Rovers saw the match out to gain the three points. The win marked Rovers first league win over Dunfermline at Starks Park since the New Year derby in 2000.

Sweden Ease Past Scotland In Stockholm [Match Report]

Scotland's preparation for the Euro 2012 qualifications took a blow this evening as they succumed to a 3-0 defeat at the Rasunda Stadium in Stockholm.

Allan McGregor looks on after a tough night in Stockholm

Their opponents Sweden were two goals ahead at half time thanks to strikes from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Emir Bajrami. Sweden then disposed of the away side with a third goal, courtesy of some slack Scotland defending and a composed header from Ola Toivonen.

The game began with a few minutes of pretty passing before Sweden stepped up a gear with some great build up play down the right wing and a sweet cut back from midfielder Pontus Wernbloom found the unmarked Ibrahimovic who slotted home from six yards.

Scoland could have been another goal down minutes later as Toivonen shot from outside the box and despite Allan McGregor spilling the ball, he made a fantastic reaction save from Johan Elmander's rebound.

Scotland's first real opportunity came on the 28^th minute when a James McFadden cross wasn't dealt with by Sweden keeper' Andreas Isaksson but Charlie Adam couldn't quite stretch far enough to prod the ball goalwards.

However, it wasn't long before Sweden doubled their advantage, as Bajrami sealed his first international goal. Anders Svensson threaded a delightful ball through the Scotland defence to Bajrami and although his left footed effort was saved by McGregor, his right footed rebound zipped into the top corner of the net.

The second half started the same way as the first ended, with Sweden still looking very comfortable. Olof Mellberg clipped the bar with a long range effort on the 50^th minute before Sweden finished off their opponents five minutes later. Substitute Kim Kallstrom played a cross into the centre of the box and the unmarked Toivonen cooly headed past the helpless McGregor.

Despite the match over as a contest Scotland did manage to create one good opportunity on the 66^th minute as Darren Fletcher dinked a neat ball over the top of the Swedish defence which substitute Kris Boyd met with a left foot volley, only to see Sweden goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson make a great save with his left leg.

Garry Kenneth had found himself earning his first Scotland cap this evening because of numerous Scotland injuries and the Dundee United stopper had Sweden worried on the 70^th minute as he headed a strong effort from a Barry Robson corner, but Isaksson was there to make the save.

The match began to peter out, although Sweden could have scored a couple more goals if it wasn't for McGregor inbetween the Scotland posts. Toivonen and substitute Marcus Berg both found themselves clean through on goal in the final ten mintues, but each time McGregor spread himself big and saved Scotland from further blushes.

It was a comfortable victory for the Swedes as they looked a class above the injury-hit Scotland squad, who looked vulnerable every time the home side pressed forward. Craig Levein has his work cut out for him as he prepares for Scotland's first Euro 2012 qualifier against Lithuania on Friday 3^rd September.