Programme notes from Stirling Albion v Annan Athletic on Saturday November 16

Last weekend’s loss to Cove Rangers was a bitter pill to swallow, losing as we did to an 86th-minute handball penalty, in a match where the players demonstrated a tireless work rate, superb organisation and huge desire. There is no bigger testimony to our performance than the closing paragraph from the match report on Cove’s website, penned by their intrepid reporter who is not known for seeing the “other side of the coin”! …

“But Cove were content to come away with three points from what was by far their toughest test at Balmoral so far this season”.

Despite the loss, we head into this week’s league fixture with ever-increasing confidence as we welcome everyone representing Annan Athletic to Forthbank Stadium. Our visitors secured a good home win against Cowdenbeath last weekend but let there be no doubt we’re gunning to get back on track in closing the gap on the five clubs above us in the league table that are within touching distance!

Lots happening off the field as well, with sell-out hospitality confirmed for both today’s game as well as next week’s Scottish Cup match versus Clyde. Preparations are also underway for our Festive Friends Christmas Lunch, run in association with the SPFL Trust, as we look forward to welcoming 40 guests to Forthbank on Thursday 5 December.

In other news, and as promised, I am delighted to be able to confirm a new appointment to the Club Board with Grant Morrice assuming the mantle of Community Engagement Director. Grant is also Chairperson of the Stirling Albion Junior Academy and will certainly be a busy man but Grant and the rest of the Club Board are confident that his energy, enthusiasm and his skill set will ensure even more success in our longstanding commitment to engage with our community. Welcome aboard, Grant! [Please see the Club Website for the full story].

Finally, returning to last weekend, I have to give special mention to our travelling supporters; not only in numerical terms but for their unstinting vocal (and musical) support. It is undoubtedly a huge boost for Kevin and the players. They also know they need to play their part in giving supporters a reason to attend and be vocal! I doubt anyone at Balmoral Stadium would argue they aren’t giving their all to that cause.

C’mon the Binos!

Stuart

Stuart Brown
Chairman