LAST UPDATE
08:50 - 26.07.10

All Stars Tournaments;

Friday 2nd July @ Kings Park, Stirling - Friendly vs Livingston

Sunday 4th July @ Harrogate - 5-a-side Harrogate Gateway F.C. Tournament.

Sun 18th July @ Kings Park - S.C.F.C. National Tournament

Wed 29th Sept @ Toryglen - 7 a side national

Sun 10th Oct @ Leeds Mencap National 5’s

Match/ Tournament Reports.

Sunday 20th June v Highland United @ Millburn, Inverness

A strong B squad and a rabble of D squad met up Sunday morning looking forward to our first friendly in Inverness. After a scenic drive up the A9 the lads got warmed up and ready for action. There were 2 pitches and both squads played 3 x 15 min games followed by an 15 min 11 a side game. The lads stopped off in Pitlochry on way home and undone all the calorie burning for a well deserved chippy!

The B squad (Garrie, John, Stephen, Chris, Iain, Shaun, Simon);

had a strong first game but slack defending and poor decision making up front meant they lost 2-1. Over the next 2 games the home side dominated and won 1-0 and 2-0 for a clean sweep of victories. Highland United have a strong B squad so the scores were respectable.

The D squad (Stephen, Colin, Nathan, Allan, Stuart);

were 2 players short so a few loans were completed before the games. A 3-0 defeat so the All Stars struggle to get out their half but Colin and Nathan defended valiantly to keep the score down. With 2 stronger players joining ranks Stirling reversed the trend with a 3-0 victory. After mixing again the last game finished 3-1 to Highland.

For the final quarter the lads played an 11 a side game which is a first. They understandably were slow to start but gradually grew into the game missing some guilt edged chances before Highland scored in the dying minutes to secure a 1-0 win. Several players impressed the coaches during the 11 a side game which is something we will need to try out again as the overall number of players continues to increase.

Special thanks to Highland United for their hospitable hosting.

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Sunday 13th June v Drumchapel at Kings Park

The guys from Drumchapel made their way through to compete for the Sandy Gibson Memorial Trophy, a challenge match which was started last year. It was a dreich morning at Kings Park but it did not deter the players who were keen for a good game. There were 5 teams altogether with 2 made up from the visitors and 3 from the home side.

Results

Group 1

Stirling City (C) 4 - 0 Drumchapel (B) -

Drumchapel (B) 1 - 2 Stirling City (C)

Group 2

Stirling City (B) 2 - 2 Drumchapel (A)

Stirling City (A) 1 - 1 Stirling City (B)

Drumchapel (A) 1 - 3 Stirling City (A)

There was some great individual and team play on show as everybody seemed to enjoy their day. Nearly all the games were tight affairs with some good goals. We are very grateful to Donald and the Drumchapel players for coming through and generously donating medals for every player who participated. We look forward to locking horns again next year.

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Alloa Football Festival 4/6/10

Despite one big squad turning up to play 7 a side the format changed to 5 a side which meant we could field 2 teams. The competition was split into a 5 team A league and a 3 team B league with the All Stars competing in both.

A squad
Goalscorers:
Cheese 11
Stuart 6
Dave 4
Alan 2
Kyle 1

Game 1: 5-5.
Stirling City Allstars took the field with a solid 2-2 formation in this 5-a-side competition. The last minute addition of Garrie Knight in Goals was protected by a defense of Stuart and Kyle with Callum and Iain McLeod playing up front. Stirling drifted in and out of the game which was very closely fought with single goals margins being closed down almost immediately by both teams. Overall, a draw was a fair result and the ice was broken for the players to get on the scoresheet for the next game.

Game 2: 7-5
A couple of changes to the starting line-up saw Stuart Munro drop to the bench along with Iain McLeod and the addition of substitutes Alan and Dave into the starting V. Stirling continued the form of the previous game looking a lot stronger and brighter taking a good numbers of leads throughout another goal-fest. The tactical addition of Stuart Munro provided a little extra firepower up front and it wasn't long before Stirling City has a good advantage on their opponents. The game finished closely with Stirling just pipping Carronshore with a few late goals.

Game 3: 1-6
Less said the better! The team failed to maintain their focus from the previous game, possibly with the temptation of lunch on the horizon. At 3-0 down it looked like it couldn't have gotten worse before and own goal and further porr defending saw the team slip right out of the game to 6-0. A consolation in the second half did little to raise the players' spirits as the left the field knowing the huge pressure on them for the last match of the tournament.

Game 4: 11-1
A completely different Stirling team showed up for the final game. Down to just 5 players and no substitutes to employ the team looke dlively, and full of concentration immediately gaining a solid advantage from one of the first kicks of the ball. Former trialist from the last game Steven and the return of goalkeeper-come-striker Iain McLeod saw the team fight on for a very well achieved record win of the day.

With the tournament all finished up the players knew they would return home with silver medals, and a desire to grab gold in next year's effort!

B Squad

Goalscorers:
Stephen - 4
Robbie - 2
Alan - 1

Game 1: 0-1
A narrow defeat against a strong Alloa side, Stirling didnt really get going and chances were few and far between. A strong defensive performance from george and stephen kept the score competitive.

Game 2: 5-5
An entertaining game against Livingston which we were very unlucky to draw. Stephen did well getting forward and scored several thumping goals. Robbie got onto the score-sheet also. A late equaliser denied the All Stars a victory they deserved.

Game 3: 0-4
A rematch against eventual winners Alloa saw a comprehensive defeat. Camped in our own half Alloa took their chances this time round for victory.

Game 4: 2-3
The silver medal play off against livingston ended in narrow defeat despite taking a 2-1 lead. Stirling fell behind almost immediately but goals from Alan and Robbie put the City in the driving seat. However Livingston constant pressure told with 2 late goals.

The players enjoyed their day in the sun and went home with the bronze medal. Despite not recording a victory they were competitive in all games bar one.

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Scottish Disability Sport – National 5 a side Championships – Glasgow Green – 28/04/10

B Band - Squad - Garrie, David, Shaun, Chris, Iain, John, Drew

Game v Angus - Won 9-0
After the game the result was null in void as it was clear the Angus team were in the wrong division. It was a good friendly for the players to get a few goals and work on their shape for when the real stuff was to begin.

Game 1 v Parkhill - Won 3-1
A strong performance and result against a young but capable team. After going 3-0 up some slack tracking back meant we conceded a late consolation.  Overall a hard fought win.

Game 2 v  Lothian B - Drew 0-0
After Lothian winning their first game 6 - 0 we knew it would be a very tough game.  The game started evenly and both sides had good chances.  As the game wore on Lothians passing ability was causing us lots of problems and Garrie was in inspired form as usual to keep the score at 0-0 to earn a crucial draw against a very good side.

Game 3 v Highland B - Won 7-1
In our last group game we knew we had to outscore Lothian B to have any chance of qualifying for the final. The goals flowed right from the kick off and we were 7-0 up before conceding a late penalty for stepping inside the area.  It was down to last group game to see who would qualify. Lothian needed to win there last game by more than 2 goals to go above us on goal difference.

Controversy!
Lothian B won there game 2-0 against Parkhill.  We presumed we had scrapped into the final on goal scored after being equal on goal difference with Lothian.  However after going to the organisers table the referee had recorded our first game as a 2-1 win which put Lothian into the final.  We asked the organisers to double check with referee and other managers.  After this we were rightly awarded our place in the final against Lothian A who had won their group.

Final v Lothian A - Lost 3-2
In a fast and furious game Lothian took the lead, however we pressed and quickly equalised through Shaun. Chances were missed at both ends before Lothian went 3-1 with quickfire goals.  Shaun scored a rebound to bring the score to 3-2 but despite pushing for an equaliser time ran out and Lothian were crowned winners.

The lads were presented with a runners up medal which they all thoroughly deserved.  Garrie was outstanding as usual in the 5s goals.  David was superb at the back.  Chris and Shaun were the wingers whose quick counter attacking produced a number of goals as well as good defensive work.  Iain was the link player in the middle of the park grabbing a few goals.  John and Drew came of the bench and gave a great boost against tired legs.  A big well done to the team for their efforts and skill on show.

C Band - Squad - Kyle, Simon, Stuart, Steven, Dave, Darren, Hoggan.

Game 1 Vs Dundee A: Stirling City Allstars started the game with a diamond formation planning to utilise the excellent ball control of Hoggan and Simon. Despite doing a solid job at the back the Dundee team's tight passing broke through past Steven on 3 occasions, sending the ball into the net behind Kyle. An unfortunate and slightly flattering result reflected a fair outcome on Stirling slow start to the tournament. 0-3

Game 2 Vs Firhill Thistle: With a complete tactical switch to a sturdy 2-2 formation the Allstars looked much brighter at the start of this game with the 2 changes to the starting V promoting some good passing across the pitch. However, a lapse of concentration led to an early penalty being conceded and with minor injuries affecting Stuart and Darren the players' were unable to regain the concentration they had begun with. Another good performance from Steven, who again finished the game in a sweeper position playing just behind Dave, still saw 4 goals lost and Stirling City departed from the tournament's C group. 0-4.

D Band - Squad - Steven (GK) - Colin - George - Brian - Jonathon - Alan - Ricky - Robbie

Game 1 - 3-1 Loss
Despite going down 3-1 in the opening game, this game will be remembered by a fine strike by Ricky. After a neat 1-2 passing move with Alan, whom dominated the midfield all day, Ricky hit an unstoppable low shot to equalise at 1-1. A close contest was finalised by two late goals.

Game 2 - 3-0 Loss
In the second game of the day, Stirling City All Stars came up against a formidable goalkeeper, whose goalkeeping skills will be remembered as much as his fluorescent pink shirt. Colin, George and Steven performed heroics in defence, but due to an inspiring display from the opposition goalkeeper we were unable to break the deadlock and 3 goals in quick succession soon ended the tie. A cameo performance from Jonathon saw the midfield forge a late push for a consolation, but it was not to be.

Game 3 - 2-0 Loss
Although going down by 2 goals, this result does not reflect the improvement in performance. Particularly impressive was the silky attacking play, where the lads had a number of efforts at goal but failed to find the finishing touch. With Steven, being the much quieter keeper during this game, a mixture of clinical finishing and swift counter attacking football saw 2 goals being conceded late on.

Game 4 - 5-1 Loss
This 'bonus' game saw the team rewarded with some extra game time. With the assistance of Dave, Simon and Stuart from the C team, the lads gave a spirited performance and with some neat passing moves found themselves in great goal-scoring positions, when on another day it could have been 5-5!! An expert strike from Stuart cancelled out an early opener. But the long day soon had its effects, and with the squad being stretched to the limits four goals were conceded.

Although the team never posted a win, it was highly encouraging to see the boys battle on, and despite losing on the scoreboard, the boys definitely did not lose in terms of sportsmanship and spirit. A big well done to everyone involved in the day!

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Kings Park Mini Tournament Friday 16th April 10.

The sun made a welcome appearance for the mini tournament. dinburgh All Stars and Livingston were the guests for the Stirling City F.C. All Stars first competitive action of 2010. The league format allowed all teams to play each other twice in 10 minute games.

Stirling City F.C. All Stars 0 - 1 Edinburgh
An even game with little action in front of goal was decided by an unfortunate own goal.

Stirling City F.C. All Stars 0 - 0 Livingston
Each team had a clear chance to carve out a winner, City hit the post and Livi blazed over from close range. Both teams were evenly matched across the pitch leaving a goalless draw the fair result.

Edinburgh All Stars 2 - 0 Livingston
Two clinical early goals sealed this game - the Livi defence never really recovering from a double hit by Edinburgh.

Edinburgh All Stars 0 - 0 Stirling City F.C. All Star
The goal less draw did not reflect domination of the home side who failed to break through a resolute Edinburgh defence.

Livingston 2 - 2 Edinburgh All Stars
An entertaining game which was end to end. Livi had the ball in the net on a third occasion but the final whistle had been blown and the goal was not allowed to stand.

Livingston 0 - 3 Stirling City F.C. All Stars
City finished with a flourish as Robbie Craig scored 2 and Alan Neil got his name on the score sheet. City found their form as players supported each other all over the field.

TEAM PLAYED WON DRAW LOST FOR AGAINST DIFF POINTS EDINBURGH ALL STARS 4 2 2 0 5 2 3 8 S.C.F.C. ALL STARS 4 1 2 1 3 1 2 5 LIVINGSTON 4 0 2 2 2 7 5 2

The format of the tournament with 10 minute games meant a single goal could decide a winner in each game. The flip side was that players had to be quick out of the block to make any impact - a formula which seemed to work as only 2 games did not produce any goals. City had introduced some new players to their set up - they showed a lot of promise and allowed longer playing time they will gel into the squad with ease. Our thanks and best wishes are extended to both of our guests. The team is now looking forward to the national 5-a-side tournament in July in Leeds.

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SDS 7-a-side National Tournament – Prestonpans – 15th Sept 09

Stirling City All Stars F.C took 19 players through to East Lothian on a fine autumns day as a number of players made their tournament debuts between the two teams entered.

One team entered into the B division were expected to compete at that level, this they did but that little bit of experience and lady luck was lacking and the team finished with only 1 draw and 7 defeats, however a number of these were by a single goal. It was a very strong division with Lothian Hibernian topping the table. Squad included; Iain, Kyle, David, Stuart, Stephen, Simon, Shaun, Ricky, Chris and Neil. Special mention must go to performance by David.

The other team were essentially a D band team entering a C band division so therefore were their essentially for the experience rather than to compete. They finished with one draw and four defeats which was a decent effort. Squad included; Garrie, Colin, Alan, Brian, Ricky, James, Robbie, George and Callum. Special mention must go to performances by Garrie and James.

Despite a large majority of the games ending in defeat the lads thoroughly enjoyed the day and a number of new players gained invaluable experience of competitive tournament football.

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The Tournament Begins!!!

Format: We were put into Division 3 going by our skills scores that were sent down. We would play two days of friendlies getting assessed by officials before the competitive action started on day three.

Day One – Was the first grading day and was a mini league to see the standard of the teams. It was a successful day with 3 wins and 1 loss.

Forth Valley 4 v 0 South East

1st game of the trip saw a comprehensive victory by 4 goals to nil, game was played at quite a slow pace and players were working a lot on their shape and positional play.

Forth Valley 0 v 3 Southern

Despite holding out for majority of the game went down to 3 late goals. They were well deserved by a strong southern squad. Goalkeeper knight was in terrific form.

Forth Valley 4 v 1 Northern Skelton

After a slow start finished well to win comfortably, not the best performance though.

Forth Valley 4 v 2 Yorkshire and Humberside

A cracking game played at a high pace, definitely performance of the day, the team held its shape, closed down quickly and finished the chances well.

Day Two – After our success yesterday we were pitted against two teams who had struggled a bit in the division above. The second game being a derby against the other football team from forth valley, bragging rights were very much at stake!

Forth Valley 1 v 2 East Midlands

In a very close much we felt aggrieved to have lost having created many chances but found the opposition keeper in fine form. Went two nil down early on but second half was all one way traffic but we couldn’t find the elusive equaliser.

Forth Valley 6 v 3 Forth Valley

The big one, the players were hugely motivated against the younger lot also representing forth valley. The lads started brilliantly like men possessed and stormed into a 4 goal lead. However after this they presumed the game was won and were shocked back into life at 4 – 3.  We finished strongly adding a couple of goals and securing victory in a cracking game.

Day three – saw the start of the competitive action due to our relative success over the grading games we were promoted up into the second highest league in the competition we had seen some of our opponents in action and they had a lot of quality. Our aim was to not finish bottom and mid table would be a huge success. Games were extended from 20 to 30 mins from now on.

Forth Valley 7 – 10 Northern Darlington

This game swung back and forth with a lack of concentration in the middle part of the game costing us the points. After going 2-0 down we played brilliantly to go 4-2 up but a really slack 5 mins saw us throw the game falling 8-4 behind. A few goals were exchanged as the game ebbed and flowed to finish with a 10 – 7 defeat.

Forth Valley 3 - 2 West Midlands 2

A crucial hard fought win and first points on the board, this game looked over after going 2-0 up in the first half but again the start of the second half saw the team ship sloppy goals. At 2-2 the game was end to end and great goalkeeping and sloppy finishing left the coaches with no nails but the lads dug deep scored the winner before defending bravely to see the game out.

Day Four – After a pleasing finish to yesterday, we knew we were facing the toughest day yet playing two very strong teams. Injuries and fatigue was starting to become apparent although most teams playing were in a similar position.

Forth Valley 1-7 Southern

We were soundly beaten by the eventual winners. There were strong in every area of the pitch and we lost a lot of sloppy goals.

Forth Valley 1 – 11 Scotland West Juniors

Simply couldn’t compete with the young lads whose movement and tactical awareness was very impressive. We still battled away for the full game despite the scoreline. Again sloppy goals conceded due to impressive pressure from opposition.

Day Five – Final day of games, medal positions were beyond us but a lot of pride was still at stake. After seeing other results we knew we had a tough game up first then a winnable game to finish. Colin Brown visited the Doctor in the morning and was ruled out of action for the day. Squad down to 6.

Forth Valley 0 – 4 West Midlands 1

Eventual runners up were comfortable winners with Garrie our keeper again performing wonderfully. Again players fought for the full game despite the scoreline.

Forth Valley 4 – 3 East Midlands 2

The big one! Playing the hosts who had beaten us (just) on day two. The players were really fired up for this game and it turned out to be a cracker. We came in at half time 2-1 down and after getting ourselves back in front 3-2 lost a goal immediately to square things up. The last ten minutes nerve racking to say the least but a late goal sealed it which led to some good celebrations after the game.

Day Six – The final games in the group were played out as we relaxed and watched the action. The presentation ceremony saw each team up on the podium. We finished 5th out of 7th with 2 wins and 4 defeats. Each player received a ribbon and after ceremony enjoyed soaking each other and the coaches. Each player deserves a lot of credit and gets mentioned below;

Garrie Knight (gk) – Simply outstanding for the team, really brave and committed. Noticed an improvement in confidence on and off the pitch as the week wore on. Never seen a player receive so many compliments and praise from opposing coaches.

Kyle Burden (d) – Was a rock at the back and took a lot of responsibility that we previously had not seen in him. Was a good communicator and gave out good advice to team mates throughout the week.

Stuart Munro (d/m) – What a difference a week makes. Improved a great amount over the week. Huge effort and a bubbly/ annoying/ banterous character to have about.

John Connelly (d/m/f) – The old guard scored lot of crucial goals and was by far the most effort we have seen from the enigma. Despite the fatigue John battled on bravely.

Iain McLeod (m/f) – Was the engine room for the team, played the ‘headless chicken’ role well. Finished top scorer and also scored some crucial goals.

Dave Lenton (m/f) – Mainly used as a sub but the coaching team were very impressed with Dave effort and committed. A real team player.

Colin Brown (d) – Injured almost the entire week but battled on regardless. Defended well against some very mobile opposition and showed great desire . Celebrated his birthday whilst in Leciester also.

Overall each player represented; Forth Valley, Stirling City, their coaches, families and most importantly themselves immensely and deserve great credit. A really enjoyable experience for all involved.

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Saturday 27th June - Stirling City Disability Football Tournament - Kings Park

On a overcast Saturday afternoon at Kings Park Stirling, seven teams from around Scotland took to the pitch to compete in Stirling City’s 1st. Disability Tournament. The first part of the tournament saw each team play four grading games to determine which final group they would be placed in.

The premier division saw West of Scotland A and B, Lothian and Stirling City A. West of Scotland A were dominant throughout to seal the top title playing some great football as well. 

Results

Stirling City A 1 0 West of Scotland B Lothian 1 4 West of Scotland A West of Scotland A 1 0 Stirling City A Lothian 3 1 West of Scotland B West of Scotland A 4 0 West of Scotland B Stirling City A 0 0 Lothian

Final Table

Team Played Won Draw Lost Goal Difference Points West of Scotland A 3 3 0 0 8 9 Stirling City A 3 1 1 1 0 4 Lothian 3 1 1 1 - 1 4 West of Scotland B 3 0 0 3 - 7 0

 The second division saw Fife, Edinburgh All Stars and Stirling City B competing. After some close encounters and nail biting moments the Fife side took the honours after struggling earlier in the day to take home the medals.

Results

Edinburgh All Stars 2 2 Stirling City B Fife 3 2 Edinburgh All Stars Stirling City B 1 2 Fife

Final Table

Teams Played Won Drew Lost Goal Difference Points Fife 2 2 0 0 + 2 6 Edinburgh All Stars 2 0 1 1 1 1 Stirling City B 2 0 1 1 1 1

Mention must be made to the spirit in which the tournament was played. Dissent, diving and dirty play were a pleasant exclusion from the football pitch with all the players completely focused on full commitment and effort. A special mention must also go to all the volunteers and supporters of the tournament who contributed to the day’s success.

Chairman of Stirling City All Stars Sandy White commented ‘i was delighted with the way the day went; the main objective of the tournament was to provide competitive action for our players and other players across Scotland. All the competitors seemed to really enjoy their day. Hopefully next year it can only get bigger and better. One of the most pleasing elements since the tournament has been the appearance of 7 new players at training this week.’

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Sandy Gibson Memorial Tournament - Forthbank 21/6/09

We were invited by Drumchapel West Football Club to play in the Sandy Gibson Memorial Tournament on Sunday 21st June at Forthbank. The 5 a side tournament consisted of one team from Stirling City All Stars, a team called Priesthill making there competitive debut and two Drumchapel teams who unfortunately arrived an hour late after a player went missing on their tour of the Wallace Monument earlier that morning! With Garrie, Cheesey, Stuart, Nathan, Callum, Collin, Kyle and John all on form in the mornings training session, it led to a selection nightmare and therefore the rolling substitutes rule was well used in the games. With a large crowd watching the All Stars raced to an early 4-0 lead in the first game and after a spirited comeback from the Glaswegians, the game was never in the bag until the last minute with the Stirling City lads winning a hugely entertaining game 10-7 to put them through to the final. The final was a much tighter occasion regarding attempts on goal with the All Stars winning 5-1 against a team with two very skilful players, but the hard work and team spirit paid off. The Stirling City All Stars were then all awarded with winners medals and certificates along with a trophy for the team to keep for a year when it will then be played for again. A very successful afternoon and thanks to everyone who took part in the Sandy Gibson Memorial Tournament.

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I Would Walk (well drive) 500 miles...

Stirling City All Stars entry into the MENCAP National 5 a side tournament in Leeds on 6th June 2009 marked the Club’s first game on English soil and we were MENCAP only Scottish entrants into the competition. Below is an itinerary of the historic day!

5.00am – Sandy picks up minibus and starts long day ahead.

5.30am – Kyle, Iain and Simon are picked up in Alloa looking tired.

6.00am – Alban, Stuart, John and Garrie are picked up in Stirling.

6.30am – A tired and grumpy Shaun is picked up in Cumbernauld, will the full compliment on board (half excited/half tired) the journey properly began.

8.30am – After making good time we stopped for fuel and a break at Scotch Corner.

9.30am – Disaster struck. Only half an hour from Leeds we find the M1 is shut, long tailbacks ahead, we slowly make our way through the traffic with the Scotland flag flying out the window. The guys change on the bus as they know it will be tight to get there.

11am – After losing an hour in the traffic we arrive at destination just in time. We have two grading games scheduled. 1st game results in a comfortable 3 - 0 victory. The 2nd game ends in a 5-2 defeat against the winners of the tournament last year.

12.30pm – After a quick lunch break the competition really begins. After the grading results we are put into the top league so were expecting 5 tough matches ahead of us.

Game 1 – A closely fought game results in a 3-2 victory for the All Stars.

Game 2 – A close game again resulting in a 1-0 defeat.

Game 3 – A comfortable 4-1 win.

Game 4 – A 4-0 defeat against the team who beat us 5-2 earlier in the day.

Game 5 – A tired looking All Stars just losing out 2-1 to a strong Barnsley side. Shaun takes a kick to the ankle which requires 1st aid.

2 wins and 3 defeats was a respectable outcome from the top division in the tournament. The team worked hard and were all looking tired by the final game. Both coaches saw big improvements from the participation in Scottish tournament 2 months previous. Especially in terms of working defensively as a team.

3.30pm – With the team having completed their fixtures and Shaun having his ankle strapped up we popped round to Elland Road to have a look round and get some photos with local Scottish legend Billy Bremner.

4.00pm – Headed north with a tired bunch of players

5.30pm – Decided to stop off in a quiet Cumbrian village for some fish and chips. We decided on a wee village signposted called Appleby. However, as we entered the village there was a lot of action. Turns out we had picked the village hosting a huge and famous Horse Fair with thousands of people, roads closed and one way traffic. Some players jumped out to retrieve the fish and chips while the bus went round the one way system getting moved on by the police. The players jumped in with suppers in hand and we made a quick getaway from the place munching into the greasy dinner.

6.30pm – Last stop off before home, toilet stop and get the legs moving.

8.30pm – After dropping off Shaun, John and Stuart we arrive back in Stirling with a tired bunch of players and coaches but a very enjoyable day out. Will we enter again next season? Was the 500+ mile trip worth it?? Definitely, roll on next year’s tournament!!!

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Alloa Football Festival 5/6/09

Having won the trophy last year, the All Stars were keen to impress on a very changeable day through in Alloa. With opposition from The Alloa Centre and Livingston, 8 players made it through and it wasn't long before they got their names on the scoresheet. Against Livingston, Simon GERRARD was sharp to catch himself an early hat-trick in what turned out to be a comfortable result with goals from Colin BROWN, Iain MCLEOD, Stuart MUNRO, Kyle BURDEN and Steven HOGGAN, before a Callum MACDONALD double completed the 13-0 game. The following match was much tougher against home team The Alloa Centre in which only a Steven HOGGAN goal broke the deadlock in a close 1-0 game in favour of the reds. If it wasn't for some superb goalkeeping from Garrie KNIGHT the team may have struggled to secure the competition. The team wound up the day by a succession of well-won friendlies before making their way to the stage to collect their medals for the second year in a row.

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Scottish Disability Sport National 5-a-side Tournament - Glasgow Green 27.04.09

Band B team: Iain McLeod, Kyle Burden, Simon Gerrard, Shaun Wotton, John Connelly.

Last year this team were unbeaten in the band C competition and lost on penalties in the final. With two new players the team were placed in the band B section this time around. The players knew it would be tough but had been training well in the lead up too the tournament.

Game 1 – Stirling City 4 v 1 South Lanarkshire

The reds were slow out the blocks and only good goalkeeping from Mcleod saved the team from losing the game in the first couple of minutes. Gradually the boys picked up the work rate and some good long range shooting from CONNELLY and WOTTON with two goals a piece saw the All Stars record a fortunate 4-1 victory.

Game 2 – Stirling City 1 v 3 Fife

The young Fife team started the game brightly and again the All Stars took their time to get into the game. The Fife team had the better of the play but missed chances and McLeods goalkeeping was keeping the score level. Fife took the lead but a good strike by CONNELLY levelled things. As the reds came more into the game and were looking more like scoring Fife scored two late goals to take the three points.

Game 3 – Stirling City 0 v 2 Highland B

This game started and it was clear that Highland were a physical side. It was a midfield battle with few chances but it was eventually the team from the north who converted their chances and saw out the game.

Game 4 - Stirling City 2 v 5 Lothian A

Lothian A were a class above all the teams in this level and eventually won the final 5-0. The All Stars took an early lead from sharp thinking by WOTTON but as the game went on they were outplayed and were 4-1 down in a flash. To the reds credit they battled away until the end and scored a consolation from CONNELLY before Lothian added another.

Overall the team coped well with getting promoted up a level. The movement and positional play seemed to be the difference between the sides but City weren’t a million miles away as you can see from the scores. Back to the training ground before the next game! MOM – Shaun Wotton

Band D team: Garrie Knight, Nathan Boyle, Colin Brown, Dave Lenton, Callum Macdonald

Last year a similar team managed one draw and three loses. A similar run of results was expected.

Game 1 – Stirling City 1 v 2 Angus

Angus eventually went on to be runners up in this division final and looked a good outfit. They peppered the City goal but Knight was in top form in between the sticks. In a rare foray forward the All Stars took a shock lead when BOYLE cleanly struck one home. Angus continued to apply pressure and scored two late goals which they deserved to take the three points.

Game 2 - Stirling City 1 v 3 Annandale and Eskdale A

The All Stars were struggling to get out their half and Annandale scored early on again with Knight keeping the score down. City did have some chance on the break and LENTON took one to bring the scores level. It was backs to the wall for the last couple of minutes but the pressure was too much and the southerners scored two to record victory.

Game 3 – Stirling City 0 v 1 Lothian B

This was the Garrie Knight show as the keeper was absolute class. Both teams created a lot of chances but especially Lothian but every thing they threw at the keeper he handled up until the last minute when one sneaked through his legs. City were adopting a more attacking strategy and creating more chances but again it was a fair but gutting result.

Game 4 – Stirling City 4 v 1 Killie Wanderers

Both teams set out an attacking formation and the score line could have been even higher if it wasn’t for some poor finishing and top goalkeeping again from Knight. The All Stars scorers were LENTON x 2, BOYLE and BROWN with a fine long range finish. Good way to end the day.

Overall the team worked hard and although they were often second best the goalkeeper Garrie Knight kept the games competitive and on another day City could have sneaked another couple of points. There were some brilliant individual performances, in particular from Knight and MOM – Nathan ‘terminator’ Boyle.

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Tournament Report

On a clear Friday morning an enjoyable day was had by all. Stirling City F.C. All Stars used their experience and strong squad to comfortably win the tournament playing some good football and scoring some cracking goals. Edinburgh A finished with a thrilling game against Livingston which resulted in them jumping into second spot in the league thanks to a last minute winner. Livingston had a poor, static start but put in improved performances in the second and third games. Edinburgh B were strong in defence but lacked a killer instinct up front. For the All Stars there were a couple of impressive debuts from Simon Gerrard and Shaun Wotton.  The squad are really looking forward to the next fixture at the national 5 a sides in two weeks!

Results

Tournament League Table

Stirling City F.C. ‘All Stars’ vs. Central Regional Squad

Monday 23.03.09

It was a wet and windy night through in Falkirk for the 'All Stars' first game of the summer season. 10 a side was played to ensure as few players were idle as possible. The game started but the 'All Stars' didnt and were under pressure for almost the full first half. The development squad deservedly took the lead halfway into the first period and only some good saves for Iain McLeod kept the reds in the game. The second half saw a greatly improved performance from the team who began to create some goalscoring opportunities. The game opened up with both sides coming close to scoring but there were no further goals. Overall a deserved victory for the development squad despite a much improved second half performance for the 'All Stars.'

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Scottish Disability Sport 5-a-side tournament at Glasgow Green

Wed 30th April 2008

The Stirling City F.C. ‘All Stars’ scrapped together two teams for the tournament after a couple of late call offs. The A team were entered in Band C and consisted of Cheesy, Kyle, Ricky, John and Steven. They really gelled and played some good football topping there mini league with a hard fought 2-0 win and a slick 6-0 win. This meant they qualified for the final against a young Angus side. After being 2-0 and 3-2 up the All Stars were pegged back in the last minute and the game went to penalties. Luck was against them as they went down 3-2 on pens. A silver medal for the guys, some great excitment and good experience!

The B team were entered into Band D and consisted of Gordon, Colin, Eddie, Alisdair and Dave. This team suffered from late call offs and was thrown together. No recognised keeper meant each player took a turn in goal for the 4 games. Although the results werent there the performances improved with each game with the final game finishing with a 4-4 draw. The hard work and spirited performances were highly commendable! Roll on the next tournament!!!

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Friendly game
West of Scotland S.O.F.C v Stirling City F.C. ‘All Stars’
Firhill Complex, Glasgow

Tuesday 3rd June 2008

A squad of 10 players went through for a friendly game, unfortunely the expected hour long game was reduced to a 15 minute game which finished 0-0 due to poor navigation from the driver and co-driver. Both teams had chances but good goalkeeping and some bad finishing meant the game ended goalless. A rearranged fixture will be sorted for later in the summer.

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Alloa Football Festival
Alloa Rugby Club

Friday 6th June 2008

Stirling City All Stars ran out comfortable winners of the Umbro Cup. There was only one other senior team entered but they were dispatched with ease with some classy football from the All Stars. The rest of the day the teams were mixed and good day was had in the sun. A gold medal and a small trophy for the big (soon to be filled) cabinet!

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Stirling Mini Tournament
Kings Park

Friday 18th July 2008

The three team mini tournament included a mixed squad from Stirling City F.C. and a team from both Livingston and Edinburgh. Stirling were drawn against Edinburgh in the first game and after a slow start and going behind Stirling slid through the gears and finished comfortable 5-1 winners. The two invited teams matched up next and produced a thrilling 3-3 draw. Livingston provided the opposition for the final game which turned into quite a heated affair. Stirling City again came through with a comfortable win. A good run out at Stirling’s first home game of the season.

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Friendly v Glasgow SO
Firhill Complex

Tuesday 12th August 2008

Stirling City brought through 2 teams for this friendly game. The first squad was a strong team and we requested to play against Glasgow’s A band team. Stirling didn’t gel early on and lost 4-0 in the first game. After a break the teams restarted at 0-0 and the ‘All Stars’ put in a much better performance. After racing into a 4-2 lead Glasgow turned it around and finished 6-4 winners. The All Stars other squad played 3 short games losing the first two and winning the final game. A good test against strong and well established teams.

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SDS 7-a-side Tournament
Little Kerse, Grangemouth

Tuesday 23rd September 2008

Due to a change in banding Stirling City F.C. ‘All Stars’ decided to enter two teams at C and B band. The players knew they would be up against strong opposition but were looking forward to it none the less. Unfortunately both teams started with only 6 players however a signing on fee tempted a Lothian player over into the red side for the B band team who also had Cheesy, Ricky, David, John, Peter and Garry. The first game finished 4-1 to a highland A. A fine free kick from John Connelly one of few efforts in the game. The second game finished 6-0 against eventual winners Lothian. Clinical finishing made the score line seem a bit flattering. The performance was improved and improved further with a win against Highland B 2-1 with Connelly and Craig Gibson (our loan signing) getting on the scoresheet. This meant the team finished 3rd in the mini league. Further friendlies were played with better performances but still a couple of defeats.

The C band team had a similar day improving throughout the day. The team consisted of Luke, Colin, Callum, Stuart, Dave and Duncan. The results gradually came down from 7-0 to 5-2 to 4-2 over the three games. Duncan and Dave both chipped in with 2 goals each. As expected it was a tough day for the players but enjoyable and again they did themselves proud - celebrated with a glass of champagne thanks to Colin!

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