August 2009

The squad had a very short break this season particularly having been in the play offs and getting to the Final. I was very impressed with the lads on their return to pre-season training – it was obvious that they had been very professional in looking after themselves. Their attitude has been terrific and the boys were hungry to get back to training. Our pre-season included a weekend in St Andrews training hard as well as getting the boys together for some team building. Our preparation has been excellent and will hopefully stand us in good stead for the forthcoming season.

Our pre-season was focussed on preparing for another season in the 3rd Division and looking to go that one better than last season. The news that we were promoted to the 2nd Division was a surprise but a pleasant one, as the efforts from last year were rewarded. The players and staff were already on a high after a very good pre-season and the promotion just added to the buzz around the club. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the lads to face up to the challenges of the 2nd Division. I think everyone at the club has adapted very well and the players and staff have shown that they are unfazed by the changes in our circumstances. I think the level of performances we have shown on the pitch has proved that and we will not rest at this. As always we are looking to improve and keep demanding more of the players and get them to demand more of themselves. We have been unfortunate with our results which I don’t believe reflect our performance level. One or two big decisions have gone against us which are out of our control , but hopefully our luck will turn and we will get some decisions going for us.

This season has also brought the arrival of some new faces: Gareth Wardlaw – signed from Raith Rovers, Gareth has a terrific work rate, a good physical presence and is very mobile. I am sure with Gareth’s desire he will score goals for us. Craig Winter - I brought Craig back to Central Park to provide an experienced head in the middle of the park. Our younger players will benefit from having Toorie alongside them. Neil McCabe – One to watch! He is again very mobile with an eye for a pass and has a great engine. He is young and impressed in pre-season training. Scott McBride – Scott has joined us from fellow Fifers Dunfermline on long term loan. He is versatile forward who can play through the middle or on the left. Again a young player with a bright future. Kris Bowyer - Kris joined the club from local amateur side Rosyth Recreation and has adapted well to the demands of the professional game. If he continues to progress I am sure he will be a good addition to that position. In addition, Cameron McKay recently joined up from Canadian side Hamilton Croatia and will provide further competition for the goalkeeping area.

We also have a bunch of lads at under 19 level that train with us on a full-time basis. Steve Bennett has recently joined the full time set up. Steve is an excellent prospect for the future. His pre-season was hampered by a broken metatarsal. A tall, commanding figure who, if continues his progress, has a real good chance.

My aim for the club for this season is to finish as high in the league as we can and consolidate our position as a 2nd division club. I believe we have the players & staff in place, and passionate supporters behind us to take the club in the right direction and achieve high levels of performance.

I'm sure all our supporters will get behind our new lads and give them the fantastic support they have shown the team and myself, week in and week out. I'm sure all the boys will have a big part to play at some point during what we all hope will be a successful season ahead.

Best wishes.

Danny Lennon