With the transfer deadline day looming there was a load of rumours regarding the Ton with most seeming to be fabrication but 2 strong rumours were that of John Sutton & Scott Mclaughlin. Sutton had been touted to us a couple of times and a deal looked likely until on Wednesday the Skunks swooped to sign him – reckon he could be a good signing for them and they look a good bet for promotion.
Mclaughlin on the other hand did join us and will be a useful addition. He played well during his 6 months with us last season but opted to stay at Livi under Lambert in the summer and despite playing in a few of Livi’s opening league games he has been deemed surplus to requirements there. Could put pressure on Chris Millar when Alex Walker returns to fitness for those central midfield spots.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Morton v Brechin
The SFL in all their glory here as we are sent to Brechin on a Tuesday night for the Challenge cup. It was one of those draws that nobody wanted but it proved to be very good indeed for us.
I wasn’t planning on making the journey but managed to swing a 4o’clock finish from work to go to the game with around 250 other Ton fans (not on the same bus)
Team news was that John Adam was in for Dean Keenan and Temps was making his return in place of Jason. Ton ran out worthy 2-0 winners in what was a fine performance by the boys.
Early on we signalled our intentions as 1st Vialli with and 1 on 1 and Andy Mclaren with a 20 yard curler forced stunning saves from Craig Nelson. It wasn’t long before we made the breakthrough though with a goal of beauty.
Our defence cleared the ball out to Vialli who knocked the ball down to Temps who knocked that ball beyond the defence for Vialli who took his time on the left edge of the box before rolling the ball across the face of goal and a Andy Mclaren step over left Temps in acres of space to fire home from 15 yards.
It was no more than the Ton deserved at this point as we were dictating the game and outplaying our Division 1 opponents. It was only a matter of time before Ton got the second and Temps was at the heart of it again. He picked the ball up on the left hand side and as the crowd cried “pass it” he beat 3 men in a delightful run before crossing from the byeline to leave Vialli with the simple task of heading home.
Brechin had shown very little in the match with only a couple of snap shots to show for their efforts. In the 2nd half it’s a wonder the score line stayed 2-0 a we had half a dozen chances to increase our lead – Temps hit the post, had a shot saved and 1 cleared off the line before being replaced by Jason in 70minutes – Jason then had a couple of near misses.
All in all a great team performance with Temps winning the MOM award with his best performance in a Ton jersey – this game showed what he is capable of if things come off for him.
John Adam had a solid game in the midfield anchor role keeping everything simple and allowing Millar to get forward more.
Chris is still looking a shadow of his former self as he struggles to do even the simple things that are required in that central role.
The draw for the quarters paired us with Stirling at Forthbank – a tie that should hold no fears for us having beaten them recently there in the league. The other ties kept the big guns of Dundee, St johnstone and the Skunks apart – so could make for an interested final 4 if we can all push through.
I wasn’t planning on making the journey but managed to swing a 4o’clock finish from work to go to the game with around 250 other Ton fans (not on the same bus)
Team news was that John Adam was in for Dean Keenan and Temps was making his return in place of Jason. Ton ran out worthy 2-0 winners in what was a fine performance by the boys.
Early on we signalled our intentions as 1st Vialli with and 1 on 1 and Andy Mclaren with a 20 yard curler forced stunning saves from Craig Nelson. It wasn’t long before we made the breakthrough though with a goal of beauty.
Our defence cleared the ball out to Vialli who knocked the ball down to Temps who knocked that ball beyond the defence for Vialli who took his time on the left edge of the box before rolling the ball across the face of goal and a Andy Mclaren step over left Temps in acres of space to fire home from 15 yards.
It was no more than the Ton deserved at this point as we were dictating the game and outplaying our Division 1 opponents. It was only a matter of time before Ton got the second and Temps was at the heart of it again. He picked the ball up on the left hand side and as the crowd cried “pass it” he beat 3 men in a delightful run before crossing from the byeline to leave Vialli with the simple task of heading home.
Brechin had shown very little in the match with only a couple of snap shots to show for their efforts. In the 2nd half it’s a wonder the score line stayed 2-0 a we had half a dozen chances to increase our lead – Temps hit the post, had a shot saved and 1 cleared off the line before being replaced by Jason in 70minutes – Jason then had a couple of near misses.
All in all a great team performance with Temps winning the MOM award with his best performance in a Ton jersey – this game showed what he is capable of if things come off for him.
John Adam had a solid game in the midfield anchor role keeping everything simple and allowing Millar to get forward more.
Chris is still looking a shadow of his former self as he struggles to do even the simple things that are required in that central role.
The draw for the quarters paired us with Stirling at Forthbank – a tie that should hold no fears for us having beaten them recently there in the league. The other ties kept the big guns of Dundee, St johnstone and the Skunks apart – so could make for an interested final 4 if we can all push through.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Morton v Dumbarton
The Ton drew 1-1 with Dumbarton at the SHS – they totally dominated the game however poor final ball and a slackness in defence meant we could have easily lost the game.
There was 1 change from the team which beat Fofar last week Dean Keenan in for injured Alex Walker in midfield.
We had the bulk of possession and had 2 cleared off the line as our striking let us down. At the other end Davie Mcgurn made 2 great saves 1 on 1 with their strikers and as it hit the 85minute it looked like it was gonna be a disappointing 0-0 draw.
Then the fireworks started. As we pushed for a winner they broke up the park from our corner and after allowing their striker to run unchallenged from his own half Dean Keenan put in a woeful challenge which resulted in a penalty and a red card (may have been 2nd yellow or straight red).
They scored the penalty and thus Davie conceded his 1st league goal this season – then followed a total onslaught on the Son’s goal which should have resulted in a penalty when their centre half lay on the 6yard line and cuddled the ball after a goalmouth scramble
The Ton players went ballistic none more so than Andy Mclaren who obviously took it too far and was given a straight red by the ref for foul & abusive language.
From the resultant corner the ball was knocked down to Spoonsy who drove home from 15 yards – cue bedlam in the away end. 1-0 down and 2 sent off and still fought back to gain a draw that’s the sort of strength that has been missing in recent seasons.
Also have to mention about the referee who was one of the worst I have seen in a long time – nothing particularly wrong with the 2 sendings off but his general handling of the game frustrated both sets of players as he gave fouls for the slightest thing.
With Gretna only drawing with Ayr a point was a good result but losing Andy Mclaren and to a lesser extent Dean Keenan for the Gretna game a week on Saturday was a huge blow and Andy gives us that little bit of unpredicatability.
There was 1 change from the team which beat Fofar last week Dean Keenan in for injured Alex Walker in midfield.
We had the bulk of possession and had 2 cleared off the line as our striking let us down. At the other end Davie Mcgurn made 2 great saves 1 on 1 with their strikers and as it hit the 85minute it looked like it was gonna be a disappointing 0-0 draw.
Then the fireworks started. As we pushed for a winner they broke up the park from our corner and after allowing their striker to run unchallenged from his own half Dean Keenan put in a woeful challenge which resulted in a penalty and a red card (may have been 2nd yellow or straight red).
They scored the penalty and thus Davie conceded his 1st league goal this season – then followed a total onslaught on the Son’s goal which should have resulted in a penalty when their centre half lay on the 6yard line and cuddled the ball after a goalmouth scramble
The Ton players went ballistic none more so than Andy Mclaren who obviously took it too far and was given a straight red by the ref for foul & abusive language.
From the resultant corner the ball was knocked down to Spoonsy who drove home from 15 yards – cue bedlam in the away end. 1-0 down and 2 sent off and still fought back to gain a draw that’s the sort of strength that has been missing in recent seasons.
Also have to mention about the referee who was one of the worst I have seen in a long time – nothing particularly wrong with the 2 sendings off but his general handling of the game frustrated both sets of players as he gave fouls for the slightest thing.
With Gretna only drawing with Ayr a point was a good result but losing Andy Mclaren and to a lesser extent Dean Keenan for the Gretna game a week on Saturday was a huge blow and Andy gives us that little bit of unpredicatability.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Dumbarton Preview
Ok the mighty head across the water today to take on Dumbarton at the Rock - Its never really been a happy hunting ground for us
We've won 1 and lost 3 at the Rock and we never seem to have a run of the mill game we've either been excellent or shocking.
I know it sounds cliche'd but the form book usually goes out the window when we head to the Rock. Had a great result and peformance in the corresponding fixture in 2004 but then when Mcinally came in tightened up the defence we managed to throw away 3 goals with some woeful defending in our 2nd visit to Dumbarton last season.
At present we probably look a better team than that of last year but we must prove that by taking 3 points at places like the Rock, Station Park & Balmoor.
Team news is that Alex Walker is out due to the injury that forced him off last week - 1st reports were of medial ligament damage which we're scorched later in the week - he's hoping to back for the Gretna game on the 10th September but may take a few more weeks.
In Alex absence Jim has his 1st big selection decision of the season (dropping Temps was a bit of no-brainer) there appears to be 2 options
Alter the formation to the more defensively sound 4-4-2 formation although with Mclaren and Millar in central midfield we may be short in there - however would give McAlister & Finalyson more security to go forward. Changing to this formation means also finding someone to play left back (Mcgregor?)
Stick with the 3-4-1-2 formation that has got us this far and go for straight replacement of Alex with either Keenan, Adam or Mcgregor
I reckon the 2nd option is the more likely with Keenan the favourite to step in - Dean does the defensive side of the game reasonably well and will not be found wanting in the tackle however lacks the poise and passing of Adam. Certainly whoever comes in will have to be on top form as Chris Millar's form has shaded this season - Although maybe with Keenan alongside Chris will be the more advance of the central 2 and we will see more of the old Chris.
Up front Jason Walker has done enough to merit his place in the starting 11 but hopefully bouyed by his subs appearance last week Temps will be knocking on the door should Jason or Vialli be toiling. Last week when Chris came on the crowd got behind him and his was noticably lifted by this - hopefully Chris can make the most of the skills he has an silence the boo-boys once and for all
The Strathclyde Homes Stadium is a relatively big park and hopefully that will benefit the likes Walker, Finlayson & Mcallister to use their pace to full effect.
We go into the game with a 100% league record having taken 9 points out of 9 and no goals conceeded during this time but I reckon now that i've mentioned it one if not both these record will go. I think a 3-2 is on the cards keep us up there with Gretna and the 1st big clash of the season at Cappielow on 10th September.
Mon e' Ton
Likely Line-up (3-4-1-2)
---------------- Mcgurn -------------------
Weatherson---- Greacen --- Harding -----
--------- Millar -----Keenan ------------
McAlister------------------------Finlayson
---------------Mclaren--------------------
--------- Lilley --- J. Walker -------------
Other Fixtures
Forfar v Peterhead,
Gretna v Ayr,
Partick v Raith,
Stirling v Alloa,
We've won 1 and lost 3 at the Rock and we never seem to have a run of the mill game we've either been excellent or shocking.
I know it sounds cliche'd but the form book usually goes out the window when we head to the Rock. Had a great result and peformance in the corresponding fixture in 2004 but then when Mcinally came in tightened up the defence we managed to throw away 3 goals with some woeful defending in our 2nd visit to Dumbarton last season.
At present we probably look a better team than that of last year but we must prove that by taking 3 points at places like the Rock, Station Park & Balmoor.
Team news is that Alex Walker is out due to the injury that forced him off last week - 1st reports were of medial ligament damage which we're scorched later in the week - he's hoping to back for the Gretna game on the 10th September but may take a few more weeks.
In Alex absence Jim has his 1st big selection decision of the season (dropping Temps was a bit of no-brainer) there appears to be 2 options
Alter the formation to the more defensively sound 4-4-2 formation although with Mclaren and Millar in central midfield we may be short in there - however would give McAlister & Finalyson more security to go forward. Changing to this formation means also finding someone to play left back (Mcgregor?)
Stick with the 3-4-1-2 formation that has got us this far and go for straight replacement of Alex with either Keenan, Adam or Mcgregor
I reckon the 2nd option is the more likely with Keenan the favourite to step in - Dean does the defensive side of the game reasonably well and will not be found wanting in the tackle however lacks the poise and passing of Adam. Certainly whoever comes in will have to be on top form as Chris Millar's form has shaded this season - Although maybe with Keenan alongside Chris will be the more advance of the central 2 and we will see more of the old Chris.
Up front Jason Walker has done enough to merit his place in the starting 11 but hopefully bouyed by his subs appearance last week Temps will be knocking on the door should Jason or Vialli be toiling. Last week when Chris came on the crowd got behind him and his was noticably lifted by this - hopefully Chris can make the most of the skills he has an silence the boo-boys once and for all
The Strathclyde Homes Stadium is a relatively big park and hopefully that will benefit the likes Walker, Finlayson & Mcallister to use their pace to full effect.
We go into the game with a 100% league record having taken 9 points out of 9 and no goals conceeded during this time but I reckon now that i've mentioned it one if not both these record will go. I think a 3-2 is on the cards keep us up there with Gretna and the 1st big clash of the season at Cappielow on 10th September.
Mon e' Ton
Likely Line-up (3-4-1-2)
---------------- Mcgurn -------------------
Weatherson---- Greacen --- Harding -----
--------- Millar -----Keenan ------------
McAlister------------------------Finlayson
---------------Mclaren--------------------
--------- Lilley --- J. Walker -------------
Other Fixtures
Forfar v Peterhead,
Gretna v Ayr,
Partick v Raith,
Stirling v Alloa,
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Morton V Forfar
Ton entertained Forfar at Cappielow on Saturday in one of those games which we should win comfortably but always seem to end up stuggling.
The same 11 that started at Forthbank last week took to the field meaning the Chris Templeman had to make do with a place on the bench.
First 20 minutes of the game it was all Morton with all too often the final ball lacking - Alex Walker seems to settle in with each game and was looking more and more comfortable on the ball however his afternoon ended when midway through the half he went on a run forward which was met with a blocked challenge which saw him have to limp off to be replaced with Dean Keenen. Despite all the 1st half presure we had very few clear cut chances and best effort was a Spoonsy 30 yard thunderbolt.
Second half saw us get more and more desperate in our attempts to make our possession turn into goals but was ultimately proving unsuccesful & Mcinally tried to change things by bringing off Jason and putting on Temps (who got a good receiption and was roundly encouraged by the home support). Almost immediately we got the breakthrough - A Spoonsy free kick lofted in from halfway line caused problems in their defence and was put into his own by Forrest under pressure from Greacen. After that we huffed and puffed but just couldn't get the 2nd and almost paid the price when a defensive mix up allowed their striker a free shot from 16yards out which almost snapped McGurn's crossbar in 2 before rebounding out. We played out the remaining minutes without ever looking like getting the 2nd.
McGurn 6- Didn't have much to do but dealt with it fine
Spoonsy 7- Great strike and looks dangerous when he ventures forward - not really tested in defence
Alex Walker 7- Looked more settled and seem keen to get forward more - missed when he went off
Harding 6- Didn't have much to do defensively and distribution was poor
Greacen 7- Kept it simple and forced error for only goal
McLaren 8- Best player on park - always looking for the ball
Millar 5- Another poor game by his standards - needed to step up when Alex went off and didn't Finlayson 7- Another solid performance from Kev - I think we've yet to see him at his best in Competetive games but doesn't let us down - Seems to be disrupted going forward by Andy's tendancy to hug the right touchline
Jason 7- Did okay, but service wasn't great - Forfar defended very deep and left very little space in behind for Jason to exploit
Vialli 7- Got through a lot of work and won a lot in the air but failed to test the goalkeeper and at times looks out of sorts - linked up well with Andy on occassion
McAllister 8- Another hard working performance with skill going forward would like to see Jim getting more of the ball from team mates rather than doing the work himself
SUBS
Keenan 6- Game bypassed him a bit - playing the defensive role with the very little defensive work to be done and failed to really lend support to the attack
Templeman 7- Got a large cheer from the crowd coming on and seemed to respond to that - linked up well
Adam 6- Only on for 5 mins and didn't particularly do anything of note.
All in all good to get the points - much like previous week we could have easily blown Forfar away but ended up sweatin a little at the end - To be fair this is probably the sort of game we would have dropped points in the past few season. 3 games - 3 wins and no goals conceeded - cant complain.
Other Results
Alloa 1 - 2 Raith
Ayr 1 - 1 Peterhead
Gretna 1 - 0 Stirling
Partick 3 - 2 Dumbarton
League Table
Gretna 9
Morton 9
Ayr United 7
Partick Thistle 5
Alloa Athletic 4
Raith Rovers 3
Peterhead 2
Dumbarton 1
Stirling Albion 1
Forfar 0
Fixtures next week
Dumbarton v Morton,
Forfar v Peterhead,
Gretna v Ayr,
Partick v Raith,
Stirling v Alloa,
The same 11 that started at Forthbank last week took to the field meaning the Chris Templeman had to make do with a place on the bench.
First 20 minutes of the game it was all Morton with all too often the final ball lacking - Alex Walker seems to settle in with each game and was looking more and more comfortable on the ball however his afternoon ended when midway through the half he went on a run forward which was met with a blocked challenge which saw him have to limp off to be replaced with Dean Keenen. Despite all the 1st half presure we had very few clear cut chances and best effort was a Spoonsy 30 yard thunderbolt.
Second half saw us get more and more desperate in our attempts to make our possession turn into goals but was ultimately proving unsuccesful & Mcinally tried to change things by bringing off Jason and putting on Temps (who got a good receiption and was roundly encouraged by the home support). Almost immediately we got the breakthrough - A Spoonsy free kick lofted in from halfway line caused problems in their defence and was put into his own by Forrest under pressure from Greacen. After that we huffed and puffed but just couldn't get the 2nd and almost paid the price when a defensive mix up allowed their striker a free shot from 16yards out which almost snapped McGurn's crossbar in 2 before rebounding out. We played out the remaining minutes without ever looking like getting the 2nd.
McGurn 6- Didn't have much to do but dealt with it fine
Spoonsy 7- Great strike and looks dangerous when he ventures forward - not really tested in defence
Alex Walker 7- Looked more settled and seem keen to get forward more - missed when he went off
Harding 6- Didn't have much to do defensively and distribution was poor
Greacen 7- Kept it simple and forced error for only goal
McLaren 8- Best player on park - always looking for the ball
Millar 5- Another poor game by his standards - needed to step up when Alex went off and didn't Finlayson 7- Another solid performance from Kev - I think we've yet to see him at his best in Competetive games but doesn't let us down - Seems to be disrupted going forward by Andy's tendancy to hug the right touchline
Jason 7- Did okay, but service wasn't great - Forfar defended very deep and left very little space in behind for Jason to exploit
Vialli 7- Got through a lot of work and won a lot in the air but failed to test the goalkeeper and at times looks out of sorts - linked up well with Andy on occassion
McAllister 8- Another hard working performance with skill going forward would like to see Jim getting more of the ball from team mates rather than doing the work himself
SUBS
Keenan 6- Game bypassed him a bit - playing the defensive role with the very little defensive work to be done and failed to really lend support to the attack
Templeman 7- Got a large cheer from the crowd coming on and seemed to respond to that - linked up well
Adam 6- Only on for 5 mins and didn't particularly do anything of note.
All in all good to get the points - much like previous week we could have easily blown Forfar away but ended up sweatin a little at the end - To be fair this is probably the sort of game we would have dropped points in the past few season. 3 games - 3 wins and no goals conceeded - cant complain.
Other Results
Alloa 1 - 2 Raith
Ayr 1 - 1 Peterhead
Gretna 1 - 0 Stirling
Partick 3 - 2 Dumbarton
League Table
Gretna 9
Morton 9
Ayr United 7
Partick Thistle 5
Alloa Athletic 4
Raith Rovers 3
Peterhead 2
Dumbarton 1
Stirling Albion 1
Forfar 0
Fixtures next week
Dumbarton v Morton,
Forfar v Peterhead,
Gretna v Ayr,
Partick v Raith,
Stirling v Alloa,
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Kirk
On Tuesday night we headed up to Debbie's to see Debbie, Stephen & Kirk. Kirk is our Godson and will be 2 years old in October.
Before Tuesday it had been around 3 months since we last saw him and its amazing how much he has come on in that time.
He was full of life on Tuesday night even though it would normally have been bedtime.
Would loke to keep more in touch with them and get to see Kirk more often - Debbie is 6/7months pregnant at the moment so much of the talk surrounded baby names for the forthcoming addition to the family. One of the suggestions should Debbie have a girl was Molly but with Stephen's surname being Munro - I dont know if Molly Munro quite sounds right (sound like a drunken pub song was sung about Molly Munro)
I did quite like Debbie's suggestion of Naiah.
I also got me thinking about my name
ANDREW
Gender: Masculine
Usage: English,
Biblical Pronounced: AN-droo
From the Greek name Ανδρεας (Andreas), which derives from ανηρ (aner) "man" (genitive ανδρος (andros) "of a man"). In the New Testament the apostle Andrew was the brother of the apostle Simon Peter. According to legend he was crucified on an X-shaped cross, and he is the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, and Greece. This was also the name of kings of Hungary.
Try yours at http://www.behindthename.com/
Before Tuesday it had been around 3 months since we last saw him and its amazing how much he has come on in that time.
He was full of life on Tuesday night even though it would normally have been bedtime.
Would loke to keep more in touch with them and get to see Kirk more often - Debbie is 6/7months pregnant at the moment so much of the talk surrounded baby names for the forthcoming addition to the family. One of the suggestions should Debbie have a girl was Molly but with Stephen's surname being Munro - I dont know if Molly Munro quite sounds right (sound like a drunken pub song was sung about Molly Munro)
I did quite like Debbie's suggestion of Naiah.
I also got me thinking about my name
ANDREW
Gender: Masculine
Usage: English,
Biblical Pronounced: AN-droo
From the Greek name Ανδρεας (Andreas), which derives from ανηρ (aner) "man" (genitive ανδρος (andros) "of a man"). In the New Testament the apostle Andrew was the brother of the apostle Simon Peter. According to legend he was crucified on an X-shaped cross, and he is the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, and Greece. This was also the name of kings of Hungary.
Try yours at http://www.behindthename.com/
Monday, August 15, 2005
Weekend
After returning from the football we had an impromptu game of poker on Saturday evening supplemented with a lot of beer.
We decided to keep the "buy-ins" at a fiver a time to ensure we didn't price anyone out of the game - As it was its just as well as any poker playing skills appears to have desserted me in recent weeks and I was all out fairly early.
Sunday was a lazy day spent in front of the box watching the feast of football on offer However that would come to end that evening as Gillian decided she wanted to go to the cinema to make up for the boy's night on Saturday night.
Highlight of the night for me was the Ice cream on offer at the Cinema (Mousse Tracks) The film wasn't bad although I think I actually prefer the original.
We decided to keep the "buy-ins" at a fiver a time to ensure we didn't price anyone out of the game - As it was its just as well as any poker playing skills appears to have desserted me in recent weeks and I was all out fairly early.
Sunday was a lazy day spent in front of the box watching the feast of football on offer However that would come to end that evening as Gillian decided she wanted to go to the cinema to make up for the boy's night on Saturday night.
Highlight of the night for me was the Ice cream on offer at the Cinema (Mousse Tracks) The film wasn't bad although I think I actually prefer the original.
Morton v Stirling
Saturday saw us head to Stirling for a league game at Forthbank. As expected Jason Walker came in for Chris Templeman.
After huffing and puffing we came away with a 2-0 win with goals from Mclaren & Lilley. The support seems to be divided somewhat over the manner of the perfomance - I personally felt we caused ourselves more problems than Stirling caused and we could have easily hit 4 or 5 as they seemed there for the taking.
Best for the Ton was Jim Mcallister again who seems to have stole Chris Millar's "Mr Consistency" tag and while there wasn't really any poor perfrormances I once again felt that Chris Millar seemed to lacking again - all too often he seems to be doing the simple things poorly.
Jason also did his cause no harm and was probably the better of the 2 forwards on show.
All in all happy to leave Forthbank (not just to get away from that smell) with the 3 points.
I get the impression that one of these weeks we are going to click and some team will get a hiding until then I just hope we continue picking up result while not playing to our full potential.
After huffing and puffing we came away with a 2-0 win with goals from Mclaren & Lilley. The support seems to be divided somewhat over the manner of the perfomance - I personally felt we caused ourselves more problems than Stirling caused and we could have easily hit 4 or 5 as they seemed there for the taking.
Best for the Ton was Jim Mcallister again who seems to have stole Chris Millar's "Mr Consistency" tag and while there wasn't really any poor perfrormances I once again felt that Chris Millar seemed to lacking again - all too often he seems to be doing the simple things poorly.
Jason also did his cause no harm and was probably the better of the 2 forwards on show.
All in all happy to leave Forthbank (not just to get away from that smell) with the 3 points.
I get the impression that one of these weeks we are going to click and some team will get a hiding until then I just hope we continue picking up result while not playing to our full potential.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Big Day Ooot
Friday saw the Hawthorne Boyle golf outing to the Gourock Golf course.
9 Golfers, 4 Caddies took to the course in what promise to be an exercise in digging up the golf course. I decided to keep my golf talents in the locker and carried Peter's clubs round the course. The group was split into 3 teams each of which would play a round and total scores.
Winning team was that of Alan, David & Stuart who beat the other two teams by over 20 points.
All in all a cracking day out (the weather held out for us) which was rounded off with a meal and drinks in the clubhouse.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Ayr hooooddooooooo strikes again
Just back from a disapointing night a Cappielow
Morton were playing Ayr in the 1st round of the CIS League Cup. After 2 wins out of 2 in our opening competive games hopes were high but the start of the match would soon bring us crashing back down to earth.
In 1st 30 mins we gifted possession and 2 goals to Ayr (could have been 3 but Vareille hit the bar) and we looked devoid of idea's. 1st goal Ayr player picked up the ball from a poor clearance (I think) and ran from centre circle to 20 yards out with no challenge and fired a cracker from 20 yards in to the WDE net.
2nd Greacen could decide to control or clear - didnt do either and gifted the ball to Varielle who split what was left of the defence for the no.10 to run in and finish well. almost grab a third when Greacen was beaten again by their impressive no.11 who flicked on to the onrushing Varielle who cracked the ball off the top of the bar
Only player who got pass marks in the 1st 30 mins was Jim Mcalister who won CIS man of the Match tonight (about time he got one of these). Last 15mins of the half we looked like we were starting to get somewhere - Spoonsy hit the bar and we had some better passing play but ulitmately couldn't create any clear cut chances.
At half time we took off Temps and brought on Jason Walker and certainly looked more dangerous (Jason looked best of 3 strikers tonight I thought) eventually got the breakthrough with 20+minutes to go a cracking free kick by Andy onto the head of Vialli from 10 yards. We huffed and puffed yet couldn't put the ball away Lilley had one cleared off the line and we had few close calls.
Assesment based outwith the 1st 30mins when we had much possesion but were very poor.
Mcgurn - didn't have much to do - no chance with goals
Defence - looked shaky as Ayr no.11 won everything and Varriellle was very cunning. Didn't have a lot to do after it went 2-0
Millar - poor game by his high standards - his decision making was poor and made a couple of howlers.
A. Walker - At times looked good - probably his best competitive game but could also have done more - often he could have drove forward more.
Finlayson - Up against a tough full back who could match him for pace - not as effective as he could have been.
McAllister - All over the park again - winning tackles, trying to create - obviously tired as the game went on. Deserved our MOM
McLaren - Was constantly trying to create things and gee on the team. Found Lilley well for goal and got the impression that if we were to equalise he would have a hand in it - 2 (almost) full games in 4 days will take it out of him the way he plays
Lilley - a quiet game for Derek - looked out of sorts for a lot of it - when Walker came on here had some nice 1 touches. Good header for goal
Temps - Some nice touches and some awful touches - usual game from Temps
J. Walker - looked lively when he came on - brought Lilley into the game more and got in about them - pushed his cuase for a start.
Impressed by Ayr they worked and they harried our team - their no.11 was my MOM. Dont reckon on this showing that John will get in their team - all 11 players worked their socks off. May have been different had we not gifted them 2 goals but probably just about deserved their win. For the Ton its back to the drawing board - maybe the wake up call we need as we have won past 2 without playing to our potential.
Reckon Jason Walker should be given a chance at Forthbank and if we had more options in the squad I would rest Millar and reshuffle the defence.
Morton were playing Ayr in the 1st round of the CIS League Cup. After 2 wins out of 2 in our opening competive games hopes were high but the start of the match would soon bring us crashing back down to earth.
In 1st 30 mins we gifted possession and 2 goals to Ayr (could have been 3 but Vareille hit the bar) and we looked devoid of idea's. 1st goal Ayr player picked up the ball from a poor clearance (I think) and ran from centre circle to 20 yards out with no challenge and fired a cracker from 20 yards in to the WDE net.
2nd Greacen could decide to control or clear - didnt do either and gifted the ball to Varielle who split what was left of the defence for the no.10 to run in and finish well. almost grab a third when Greacen was beaten again by their impressive no.11 who flicked on to the onrushing Varielle who cracked the ball off the top of the bar
Only player who got pass marks in the 1st 30 mins was Jim Mcalister who won CIS man of the Match tonight (about time he got one of these). Last 15mins of the half we looked like we were starting to get somewhere - Spoonsy hit the bar and we had some better passing play but ulitmately couldn't create any clear cut chances.
At half time we took off Temps and brought on Jason Walker and certainly looked more dangerous (Jason looked best of 3 strikers tonight I thought) eventually got the breakthrough with 20+minutes to go a cracking free kick by Andy onto the head of Vialli from 10 yards. We huffed and puffed yet couldn't put the ball away Lilley had one cleared off the line and we had few close calls.
Assesment based outwith the 1st 30mins when we had much possesion but were very poor.
Mcgurn - didn't have much to do - no chance with goals
Defence - looked shaky as Ayr no.11 won everything and Varriellle was very cunning. Didn't have a lot to do after it went 2-0
Millar - poor game by his high standards - his decision making was poor and made a couple of howlers.
A. Walker - At times looked good - probably his best competitive game but could also have done more - often he could have drove forward more.
Finlayson - Up against a tough full back who could match him for pace - not as effective as he could have been.
McAllister - All over the park again - winning tackles, trying to create - obviously tired as the game went on. Deserved our MOM
McLaren - Was constantly trying to create things and gee on the team. Found Lilley well for goal and got the impression that if we were to equalise he would have a hand in it - 2 (almost) full games in 4 days will take it out of him the way he plays
Lilley - a quiet game for Derek - looked out of sorts for a lot of it - when Walker came on here had some nice 1 touches. Good header for goal
Temps - Some nice touches and some awful touches - usual game from Temps
J. Walker - looked lively when he came on - brought Lilley into the game more and got in about them - pushed his cuase for a start.
Impressed by Ayr they worked and they harried our team - their no.11 was my MOM. Dont reckon on this showing that John will get in their team - all 11 players worked their socks off. May have been different had we not gifted them 2 goals but probably just about deserved their win. For the Ton its back to the drawing board - maybe the wake up call we need as we have won past 2 without playing to our potential.
Reckon Jason Walker should be given a chance at Forthbank and if we had more options in the squad I would rest Millar and reshuffle the defence.
Monday, August 08, 2005
A much needed quiet weekend in the Webster household.
Friday night was spent in front of the PC as I left Gillian to Big Brother - It's got to the stage that I cant watch anymore. Everyone's hand has been played and they are just counting down the days till its over - just get them out of there now so I can get my TV back. Even Gillian is getting bored with it and after the eviction she found a new addiction - Yahoo Games.
While I had the pleasure of a couple of games of Pro Evolution Soccer on the PS2 she amused herself by playing "Word Train" until she was almost blind - lol
Saturday was the start of the League season and while there was certain amount of anticipation in the morning I think some of the shine had been taken off with the competitve season having started a week earlier with the Challenge cup game v Gretna.
Those gooddam Cheerleaders were back in what was a scorching day at Cappielow however the game failed to live up to this heat and a somewhat lacklustre Morton scraped a 2-0 victory over Raith.
I guess its good that we're winning games without playing well but I got the impression that Raith were there for the taking and we could have sent out a message to the rest of the league as to our intentions.
Saturday night we watched Stealth and I guess it really lived up to expectations as we weren't expecting much - "Rogue unmanned plane goes mental" hardly inspires but it done exactly what it said on the tin - not a lot.
Sunday was another cracking day and we had my parents & Gillian's parents down for dinner - We dont often get all together and it was nice to catch up with them. Shame the sunlight is blocked from our back patio area by 6pm or we could have dined al-fresco ( I really must see about getting that row of houses knocked down - lol)
Unfortunately depsite a lovely weekend its Monday again - Roll on Friday.
Friday night was spent in front of the PC as I left Gillian to Big Brother - It's got to the stage that I cant watch anymore. Everyone's hand has been played and they are just counting down the days till its over - just get them out of there now so I can get my TV back. Even Gillian is getting bored with it and after the eviction she found a new addiction - Yahoo Games.
While I had the pleasure of a couple of games of Pro Evolution Soccer on the PS2 she amused herself by playing "Word Train" until she was almost blind - lol
Saturday was the start of the League season and while there was certain amount of anticipation in the morning I think some of the shine had been taken off with the competitve season having started a week earlier with the Challenge cup game v Gretna.
Those gooddam Cheerleaders were back in what was a scorching day at Cappielow however the game failed to live up to this heat and a somewhat lacklustre Morton scraped a 2-0 victory over Raith.
I guess its good that we're winning games without playing well but I got the impression that Raith were there for the taking and we could have sent out a message to the rest of the league as to our intentions.
Saturday night we watched Stealth and I guess it really lived up to expectations as we weren't expecting much - "Rogue unmanned plane goes mental" hardly inspires but it done exactly what it said on the tin - not a lot.
Sunday was another cracking day and we had my parents & Gillian's parents down for dinner - We dont often get all together and it was nice to catch up with them. Shame the sunlight is blocked from our back patio area by 6pm or we could have dined al-fresco ( I really must see about getting that row of houses knocked down - lol)
Unfortunately depsite a lovely weekend its Monday again - Roll on Friday.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
2nd Divison preview
Here's a rundown on the other teams in the 2nd
ALLOA ATHLETIC
Appear to have found their level after yo-yoing for a while – We have done reasonably well against them in recent meetings. Lost some of their more influential players but Quitongo can usually find holes in our defence. Reckon they will be eyeing up mid-table as an acceptable season. Always good to get one over on Tom Hendrie and not in an anti-St Midden way He’s just a right moany bassa.
AYR UNITED
one of our bogey teams reckon we’ve won something like twice against them in 10 year. Enjoying going to Somerset Park (still a dump though) but never seem to get a result there. Difficult to call how well they will do as the have a lot of ex. juniors in their ranks. Interesting to see how John Maisano fits into the team – always had the potential at Cappielow but never quite fulfilled it – Ayr could do a lot worse than build the team round this guy.
DUMBARTON
Another ex. Ton hero lines up for Dumbarton this season – Scotty Bannerman had cemented his place in Ton history with important goals but failed to win a 1st team place last year and moved to “the Rock” in the summer. We never seem to have an average game against the Sons – were either fantastic or dire. Hate the clamor for tickets when we play them at the Rock. They will beat a few on their day but not quite push into the leading group.
FORFAR ATHLETIC
another one of our bogey teams especially at Station Park – no matter how on form we are we never seem to play well or take anything from them. Lost Shields recently which will be a big blow (would have taken him Cappielow last Xmas) obviously puts more burden on Tosh who has been around for ever. Will win points against us but struggle with relegation.
GRETNA
1st hand experience of them last week and was impressed by them. Look a bit top heavy with the arrival of Grady and Alexander’s main task could be deciding to the front pairing. Reckon they will be there or thereabouts in May
PARTICK THISTLE
Dick Campbell’s been here and done it before with Brechin although I don’t know if he will get the time to build anything at Thistle if they don’t have a good start to the season. Still has reasonable squad of players but will have to find the winning ways fast.
PETERHEAD
Bit of unknown quantity to me – obviously fond memories of our 3rd division decider in 2003 but they have taken a while to get out of the 3rd after coming so close on so many occasions. Would have ran away with the 3rd had it not been for Big spenders Gretna. Reckon they will win a lot at home (here have our 6 points now!) but probably settle for mid table safety.
RAITH ROVERS
still recovering for a disastrous spell under Claude Anelka – think this season will be about stabilising the ship and building a challenge for next season. Largely youthful side with a few (very) old heads. Settle for safety and signs of encouragement
STIRLING ALBION
Good record against Stirling in recent years and hopefully that will continue – appear to have lost the momentum gained from the 3rd division push and will need to get it back or could return there. Seem to be lacking a cutting edge up front.
I reckon the top 3 slots will be filled by ourselves, Gretna & Thistle (no real surprises there) but with only top slot guaranteeing a step up then it could be quite a battle. With the new play off system introduced it could mean that the other 2 miss out to either 9th team in 1st division or the 4th place team in the 2nd div.
Think the Ton will hold their own in the head to head matches with Gretna & Thistle but its the games against the other teams that will vitally important to our chances – picking up points at Somerset, Balmoor & Station Park could move us from nearly men to championship winners.
ALLOA ATHLETIC
Appear to have found their level after yo-yoing for a while – We have done reasonably well against them in recent meetings. Lost some of their more influential players but Quitongo can usually find holes in our defence. Reckon they will be eyeing up mid-table as an acceptable season. Always good to get one over on Tom Hendrie and not in an anti-St Midden way He’s just a right moany bassa.
AYR UNITED
one of our bogey teams reckon we’ve won something like twice against them in 10 year. Enjoying going to Somerset Park (still a dump though) but never seem to get a result there. Difficult to call how well they will do as the have a lot of ex. juniors in their ranks. Interesting to see how John Maisano fits into the team – always had the potential at Cappielow but never quite fulfilled it – Ayr could do a lot worse than build the team round this guy.
DUMBARTON
Another ex. Ton hero lines up for Dumbarton this season – Scotty Bannerman had cemented his place in Ton history with important goals but failed to win a 1st team place last year and moved to “the Rock” in the summer. We never seem to have an average game against the Sons – were either fantastic or dire. Hate the clamor for tickets when we play them at the Rock. They will beat a few on their day but not quite push into the leading group.
FORFAR ATHLETIC
another one of our bogey teams especially at Station Park – no matter how on form we are we never seem to play well or take anything from them. Lost Shields recently which will be a big blow (would have taken him Cappielow last Xmas) obviously puts more burden on Tosh who has been around for ever. Will win points against us but struggle with relegation.
GRETNA
1st hand experience of them last week and was impressed by them. Look a bit top heavy with the arrival of Grady and Alexander’s main task could be deciding to the front pairing. Reckon they will be there or thereabouts in May
PARTICK THISTLE
Dick Campbell’s been here and done it before with Brechin although I don’t know if he will get the time to build anything at Thistle if they don’t have a good start to the season. Still has reasonable squad of players but will have to find the winning ways fast.
PETERHEAD
Bit of unknown quantity to me – obviously fond memories of our 3rd division decider in 2003 but they have taken a while to get out of the 3rd after coming so close on so many occasions. Would have ran away with the 3rd had it not been for Big spenders Gretna. Reckon they will win a lot at home (here have our 6 points now!) but probably settle for mid table safety.
RAITH ROVERS
still recovering for a disastrous spell under Claude Anelka – think this season will be about stabilising the ship and building a challenge for next season. Largely youthful side with a few (very) old heads. Settle for safety and signs of encouragement
STIRLING ALBION
Good record against Stirling in recent years and hopefully that will continue – appear to have lost the momentum gained from the 3rd division push and will need to get it back or could return there. Seem to be lacking a cutting edge up front.
I reckon the top 3 slots will be filled by ourselves, Gretna & Thistle (no real surprises there) but with only top slot guaranteeing a step up then it could be quite a battle. With the new play off system introduced it could mean that the other 2 miss out to either 9th team in 1st division or the 4th place team in the 2nd div.
Think the Ton will hold their own in the head to head matches with Gretna & Thistle but its the games against the other teams that will vitally important to our chances – picking up points at Somerset, Balmoor & Station Park could move us from nearly men to championship winners.
Friday, August 05, 2005
When we were young
That last "Knowing You, Knowing Me" thing got me thinking about all the gang when we were younger and Baz managed to dig out some old photo's.
Most of then are from around 9-10 years ago - I was 17 at the time.
Most of then are from around 9-10 years ago - I was 17 at the time.
Me & Baz in Salou - Summer '95
The Salou Boys - Sometime around 1995
(Barry, Me, Paul & Martin)
The girls - New Year 1996 (I think)
(Paula, Anni, Grace, Lynne, Laurzy & Melena)
Hopefully get some more online - check out http://homepage.ntlworld.com/andy.w/oldies/
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Knowing Me, Knowing You ahhhaaaaa!!!!
10 years ago:
I wasn't long back from Salou with Martin, Paul & Barry - What a Holiday!! Need to do "Salou Revisited - 10 years on"New footie season had just started with the Ton playing in the 1st Division have won the 2nd Division in May (back in the days when we won promotions) and 1st league match of the season was a 1-1 draw at Tannadice "Argentina in Disguise" I had finished 6th year and had no idea what I was gonna do with myself - signed up for a NC Engineering course at the Jimmy Watt just to keep the folks happy.
Hopefully get some pics on here soon.
5 years ago:
Was working at Hawthorne Boyle (how things change) but in a couple of weeks time I would change jobs moving to APT and then Solectron within
3 months. That summer had been in Stalis with Martin, Claire, Paul & Paula - the last time the 6 of us were all away together (Not counting Dunoon as that ended in carnage)
1 year ago:
Returned from Honeymoon about a fortnight ago and depression was kicking in. loads of stuff to get organised post wedding. Reckon we got our
Wedding DVD and Pictures about now. Cant remember the exact date but reckon it must have been round about now that Claire informed us that
she was pregnant (Gill almost forced her hand by telling her she was pregnant after a premonition)
yesterday:
In work as usual - got away early to head through to see the Gaffney's - Baz's last night on Scottish soil for a year.
tomorrow:
Fridays are dress down day in work and are usually hectic but we finish at 4 so cant complain - after that it'll probably be a quiet night in with the Mrs I reckon (may even visit the in-laws to blag our dinner)
5 snacks I enjoy:
Cream Cakes, Jellies/Gums, Trifles, Chuppa Chups Lollies, Nachos and cheese
5 bands/artists that I know the lyrics to most of their songs:
Pink Floyd, Train, Oasis, Beatles, OCS
5 things I'd do with $100,000,000:
Build a superstadia for Morton (free entry for fans), Buyhouses for all the family, travel the world, Buy a plane, Marry Jessica Alba.
5 locations I'd like to run away to:
USA, Canada, Greece, Ireland, Bahamas
5 bad habits I have:
Swearing, Football, fascination with bakers, bored easily, the PC
5 things I like doing:
watching football, playing football, winning money, photography, using the PC
5 things I will never wear:
Wife Beaters, Hair piece, Prince Albert piercing, St. Midden Shirt, thong (sorry)
5 TV shows I like(d):
Smallville, The OC, Pimp my Ride, X-Files & Quantum Leap
5 movies I like:
Toy Story, Monster's Inc, Jaws, Field of Dreams, Star Wars
5 people I'd like(d) to meet:
Nelson Mandela, Michael Jordan, Jessica Alba, JFK, Kenny Dalglish
5 biggest joys at the moment:
A Ton victory, seeing the family, Alyssa, Cake
5 favorite toys:
iPod, PC, Nikon 3100 Camera, PS2, P800 Phone
I wasn't long back from Salou with Martin, Paul & Barry - What a Holiday!! Need to do "Salou Revisited - 10 years on"New footie season had just started with the Ton playing in the 1st Division have won the 2nd Division in May (back in the days when we won promotions) and 1st league match of the season was a 1-1 draw at Tannadice "Argentina in Disguise" I had finished 6th year and had no idea what I was gonna do with myself - signed up for a NC Engineering course at the Jimmy Watt just to keep the folks happy.
Hopefully get some pics on here soon.
5 years ago:
Was working at Hawthorne Boyle (how things change) but in a couple of weeks time I would change jobs moving to APT and then Solectron within
3 months. That summer had been in Stalis with Martin, Claire, Paul & Paula - the last time the 6 of us were all away together (Not counting Dunoon as that ended in carnage)
1 year ago:
Returned from Honeymoon about a fortnight ago and depression was kicking in. loads of stuff to get organised post wedding. Reckon we got our
Wedding DVD and Pictures about now. Cant remember the exact date but reckon it must have been round about now that Claire informed us that
she was pregnant (Gill almost forced her hand by telling her she was pregnant after a premonition)
yesterday:
In work as usual - got away early to head through to see the Gaffney's - Baz's last night on Scottish soil for a year.
tomorrow:
Fridays are dress down day in work and are usually hectic but we finish at 4 so cant complain - after that it'll probably be a quiet night in with the Mrs I reckon (may even visit the in-laws to blag our dinner)
5 snacks I enjoy:
Cream Cakes, Jellies/Gums, Trifles, Chuppa Chups Lollies, Nachos and cheese
5 bands/artists that I know the lyrics to most of their songs:
Pink Floyd, Train, Oasis, Beatles, OCS
5 things I'd do with $100,000,000:
Build a superstadia for Morton (free entry for fans), Buyhouses for all the family, travel the world, Buy a plane, Marry Jessica Alba.
5 locations I'd like to run away to:
USA, Canada, Greece, Ireland, Bahamas
5 bad habits I have:
Swearing, Football, fascination with bakers, bored easily, the PC
5 things I like doing:
watching football, playing football, winning money, photography, using the PC
5 things I will never wear:
Wife Beaters, Hair piece, Prince Albert piercing, St. Midden Shirt, thong (sorry)
5 TV shows I like(d):
Smallville, The OC, Pimp my Ride, X-Files & Quantum Leap
5 movies I like:
Toy Story, Monster's Inc, Jaws, Field of Dreams, Star Wars
5 people I'd like(d) to meet:
Nelson Mandela, Michael Jordan, Jessica Alba, JFK, Kenny Dalglish
5 biggest joys at the moment:
A Ton victory, seeing the family, Alyssa, Cake
5 favorite toys:
iPod, PC, Nikon 3100 Camera, PS2, P800 Phone
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