Dale forces Pollok stars to dig deep

Jul 31 2008 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

THE dawn of the new junior football season is in sight with a host of pre-season friendlies marking the return to action for most of the county’s clubs.

Scottish Cup holders Bathgate travelled to Stirling University to play their annual game against Milton Amateurs and enjoyed a 2–0 triumph with a brace from Chris McFadyen.

They were followed on their travels by Linlithgow who were at Crossgates after their game against West Calder had been called off with West Calder’s new ground not ready yet.

In Fife, the Rose ran up an 8–1 win with Stuart McArthur and Ian McSween getting doubles apiece.

Whitburn were in Lanarkshire for a four-team tournament at Blantyre.

They drew 1–1 on Saturday with Bellshill but lost out on penalties. But the Burnie picked themselves up from the disappointment of such a painful defeat to take third place after beating Blantyre 7–1 on Sunday.

New signing Andrew Doig once again impressed for Derek Strickland’s side.

Newly promoted Fauldhouse were at home to Rutherglen Glencairn and drew 1–1 as they prepare for a tough season ahead.

They played Cowdenbeath on Tuesday night and have Dunfermline at home on Saturday.

In the South Division, Livingston were thrashed 5–1 at home by East Kilbride and Stoneyburn cruised past Carluke 7–2.

Harthill hosted a three-team tournament against Scotia Amateurs and Harthill Under-25s, who triumphed on goal difference.

Broxburn played Oakley, recently relegated from the Super League, and beat them 4–2.

New signing Steven Payne from Bo’ness scored a double as Broxburn gear themselves up for a real go at promotion this season.

New players, new coaching staff and new ideas for this club.

Pumpherston lost 2–0 against Steelend Vics while West Calder ran out 10–0 winners against Peebles Rovers.

The big match of the weekend took place in Armadale as the South Division side welcomed West Super League champs Pollok to Volunteer Park.

The fact Pollok are bossed by ex-Linlithgow Rose manager Jim Sinnet, who lives on the doorstep of the Armadale ground, added more bite.

Pollok had a formidable side on display with no less than seven junior internationalists on the field.

They soon showed their class and would have been 3-0 or 4-0 up but for the outstanding performances of the Armadale defence and new keeper Bob Woods.

As it was, the Dale trailed 1-0 at the break but they did have some chances of their own at the other end.

The entertainment flowed and it was Armadale who were taking the plaudits with a solid display.

However, Pollok deserved to win and with a last kick of the ball added a second goal to give the scoreline a more convincing result.

Armadale manager Jim Henderson praised his side’s effort. He said: “The lads played some good football and if we can maintain that level then we could have a really good season.

“The new lads slotted in nicely and with a bit of luck we could have taken something from the game.

“Things are shaping up nicely and we asked questions of Pollok and gave our supporters a good show.

“Bob Woods was outstanding for us with some great saves and deserved a man-of-the-match award.

“I’m delighted with a performance like that.”

Pollok boss Jim Sinnet was pleased with the workout.

He said: “It was a good competitive game and just what we needed.

“We had four players missing but still got a result. We need to be a little bit sharper but that’ll come with games.

“Armadale did well and they’ll be challenging for the South Division title.

“Personally I’m getting the tingle back when you manage a good team. I’ve got a new club and new challenges ahead.”

There are a host of big friendly clashes on the West Lothian card this weekend.

On Saturday, August 2, Armadale host Bathgate, Linlithgow clash with Camelon, Whitburn welcome Ballingry, Wishaw travel to Blackburn, Harthill clash with Shotts in a derby and Livingston entertain Larkhall.

On Monday night, Fauldhouse roll out the red carpet for First Division heavyweights Dunfermline.

On Tuesday, SPL new boys Hamilton Accies meet Linlithgow Rose at Prestonfield and Whitburn host Armadale.