Robert Bows Out

Saturday’s match v Kelty Hearts was significant in a number of ways – but not least in that it marked the final match of his Cowden career as Kit Manager for Robert McKinlay. Robert has decided it is finally time to hang up his own boots instead of the players’ jerseys. He really has been an integral part of the Central Park set up for 4 years and 4 months having first come on board in July 2017. Robert has since experienced all the highs and lows of the Cowden rollercoaster - the play off drama v Cove Rangers; the Cup tie v Rangers; derby triumphs; the rise to a play-off position; travelling all around the country from Berwick to the Broch; dressing rooms from Tynecastle to Inverness; the Covid era; the flood at Central Park; ‘Red Card Rab’ at Ochilview; and all those behind the scenes and touchline moments.

A Cowden fan since he was a boy, Robert volunteered to help the Club as Kit Manager and soon became a big part of the team at Central Park – in the ‘inner sanctum’ working closely alongside the coaching and medical staff and with the players. The Kit Man really is one of the unseen heroes of the game – and a Kit Man like Robert makes a real difference to a club. Indeed, a club such as Cowdenbeath truly depends on the contribution made by people such as Robert. The players one and all came to say their farewells to Robert on Saturday and to wish their friend well for the future. He truly will be much missed by us all.

But of course he is now free once more to enjoy the life of a fan. So if you do see Robert in a local hostelry on a matchday – he doesn’t mind a wee refreshment! Here’s to you Rab – all the very best from everyone at Central Park!