NEWTONGRANGE STAR FOOTBALL CLUB

A warm welcome to Newtongrange Star Football Club (unofficial) website.

Newtongrange Star are a semi-professional football club playing in the Junior league(not youth football) in the East of Scotland, currently East Region Premier League . We are based in the old mining village of Newtongrange Midlothian, 8 miles south of Edinburgh. Founded - 1890 , Ground - New Victoria Park (since 1994)

 GAMES UP TO 20th SEPTEMBER IN FIXTURE/RESULTS PAGE 1

Player Update

 Re-signed:

Michael Burgess, Scott Swanney, Paul Forbes, David Buchan, Jamie MacNamara, Steven Hardie, Steven Thomson, Damien Gielty, Stuart Roseburgh, Gareth Hutchison, Alan Wilson, Grant Meaney, Colin Affleck.

New signings:

 Martin Cook (Bonnyrigg U21's), Ian McManus (Wivenhoe Town), Ross Elliot (Edinburgh United), Scott McCulloch (Liberton U21's), Alan Brown (Liberton U21's) & Chris Hill (Haddington Athletic)

Players moving on:

Joe Dunbar ( Raith Rovers), Tom Britton (Returning to America), Keith McNicoll (Travelling round Europe), Ryan Carnie (Going East of Scotland), Disco Pants Manson (not sure ?, still time to sign wee man) & Ryan Curran (not sure ?).

A big Nitten welcome to all the new guys, remember to comb your hair for next season, you'll be on camera. Best wishes to all the guys moving on.

ON THE DUNDEE GAME

" Last Saturday brought an end to the season with a home league game against Dundee North End.Only pride was at stake as we were already assured of third place in the table.We asked the players for one last effort to finish the season on a high and they responded well.The game was finished as a contest after only twenty minutes by which time we were four goals up.These goals meant that we had broken the all time record for goals scored in a season by Newtongrange Star.We went on to score nine goals with only one in reply in what was a terrific display of attacking football. In the end we missed out on promotion by one point which was disappointing but something we can't dwell on.Next season will soon be upon us with no less than five different teams in our league.The challenge for promotion spots will be no less of a challenge and we must be ready for a better start than last season.We only lost three league games and two of them were our first two. With only twenty two league games played that proved too big a handicap.Preparations are already well in hand and we should be able to announce our squad by the end of this month. Three of the players definitely leaving are Joe Dunbar, Tom Britton and Keith McNicol. Joe has signed a full time contract with Raith Rovers and leaves us with some great memories of his speed, trickery and spectacular goals.We all wish him well in his new career.Tom and Keith have also been important players for Nitten over the last couple of years and will also be missed. Tom is returning home to USA and Keith intends to travel Europe. Again we wish them both well. See you all next season". -Graeme

" We travelled to Boness on Saturday knowing that a win was a must if we were to retain any hope of promotion to the Super league.The players responded well to record a well deserved win over champions Bo'ness. We started in fine fashion and virtually ended the game as a contest midway through the first half by which time we were three goals up. It was not all one way traffic however and we had to thank our goalkeeper who made some crucial saves at vital times. Having said that our half time lead could have been even bigger had we taken a few more of our chances. Boness came out for the second half looking to get back in the game and we were not nearly so dominant as we had been. Thankfully we kept a clean sheet and this reverse was the only home league defeat inflicted on Boness this season. We now await the result on Tuesday night from the Forfar v Dundee match which will decide our fate. Should Forfar win they will be promoted along with Boness. Any other result means we still have a chance in our final home match on Saturday week". - Graeme

 ON THE ARMADALE GAME:

" Armadale away is always a tough game and Saturday proved no different. Although dominating possession for long periods it took

until well into the second half to achieve the all important opening goal. I felt we played really well in the first half with the only thing missing was finishing.In the end it was a deserved victory, a result which sets us up for a nervous last two league fixtures which will decide which league we play in next season. As I have said already, Forfar are in prime position but we will not give up hope. Before the league games we have a Fife and Lothians cup tie at Linlithgow on Tuesday night. This will be another stern test but a game everybody should be looking forward to".

  ON THE LINLITHGOW GAME

" My feelings after the match on Tuesday were a mixture of frustration and pride.The frustration was result of the abysmal start we made to the game as not for the first time this season we were found wanting in the first fifteen minutes. Despite talking about this in the dressing room before the game Linlithgow started much better and more determined than us and deservedly went into a two goal lead very quickly. After this initial shock it is to our great credit that not only did we fight our way back into the game but went on to dominate in a way that few teams do when visiting a top junior side.Given our share of the breaks it is a game that we could have won quite handily. In the end we fell short but I for one felt sorry for the players that we got nothing out of the game after such a determined performance.Despite the defeat I was proud of every one of our players and the aim now is to maintain the progress we are making as a club. The season is not quite finished yet and on Saturday we face another huge task when we visit champions Boness in a vital league match. We will have to be at our best to win this one and we will certainly have to start better than we did on Tuesday. Finally a word of praise for the large numbers of Newtongrange supporters who travelled through to Linlithgow and encouraged the team so much". 

" With only three league games remaining the second promotion spot is still up for grabs. That said, Forfar are still clear favourites and if they win their remaining two fixtures there is nothing we can do about it. All we can do is try and win our last three games and hope that Forfar slip up. Last Saturday at Rosyth we eventually found the goal trail again, but not before a frustrating first half where we failed to find the net and found ourselves a goal behind at the break. We drew level early in the second half and went on to score another five goals without reply. We were all pleased to hear that Jamie Macnamara is fit and well after a pretty bad head collision that left him needing around twelve stitches. Jamie was back at training last night and should be available on Saturday week. This week we travel to Armadale who are always a handful to beat. They will be very disappointed to have been relegated and I am sure they will bounce back next season. I watched them run Bonnyrigg close in a cup tie on Tuesday and we will have to be up for it on Saturday. After Saturday we travel to either Linlithgow or Crossgates on Tuesday in the Fife and Lothians Cup" - Graeme. 

" Montrose arrived at Newtongrange last Saturday well up for the game after beating Forfar 2-0 in midweek. When they opened the scoring very early I feared the worst especially given that we have been finding goals difficult to come by. On this occasion however we responded well and were back in the lead by half time. We never really felt comfortable until the third goal went in and even after that we were reduced to ten men making things a bit more difficult for ourselves. A fourth goal near the end finished the scoring in a deserved victory against a battling Montrose team. As you are all aware I am always keen to have a well disciplined team and over the past couple of seasons we have a better record than most. Recently however we have let things slip a bit and that can ultimately cost us points. We will be stressing that point in the dressing room. On Saturday we visit Rosyth for another vital league game. Your support has been tremendous this season particularly in away games and the presence of so many Nitten fans definately helps the players". - Graeme.

"It is not very often that a manager is satisfied with his teams performance when they don't win. Saturday was one of these days. I could not have asked much more of our team on a day when we really required a win. Straight from the kick off we were in the acendancy and it stayed that way for most of the game. Unfortunately our goals have dried up a bit in recent weeks and scoring seems that bit more difficult. We could and should have been ahead in the first half before a well worked goal by Dundee gave them a half time lead.The second half was more of the same but it took us till added time before we were able to get an equalizer. We were all a bit frustrated that we didn't get the win we needed but equally determined that we will get as many points as possible in the remaining league game.Although we are on a long unbeaten run in the league, our poor start is coming back to haunt us. In a league campaign of only twenty two games you can't afford to start slowly. On Saturday Montrose make the long journey to Newtongrange and will be looking for the points to drag themselves out of the relegation spots". - Graeme

"We travelled to Forfar last Saturday full of hope that we could close the points gap with our opponents. The early part of the game went to plan with a fast start and the added bonus of an early lead. At this stage we looked capable of adding to our lead and going on to win the game. Unfortunately for us we could not maintain this bright start and for the remainder of the half were on the back foot against a lively home side. Their equaliser before half time was deserved on the balance of play. We did see an improvement in the second half but we did not seem to have the hunger or belief required to go on and win. As it happened we fell behind to a disputed penalty and required a late own goal to secure a hard fought draw. We now have to win our remaining matches and hope that the leaders drop a few points during the run in. We have another long journey this week when we visit Dundee North End, a team we have yet to face this season". - Graeme

" Saturday's draw with Kinnoull may not be the final nail in our promotion aspirations but it was a big blow nonetheless.We did not have enough of our players playing near their best on the day and suffered the consequences. When we opened the scoring in the second half I felt we would go on and win the game, but a couple of fine saves by the Kinnoull goalkeeper and some slack finishing kept the score at 1-0. We lost that advantage near the end when after clearing a corner we did not push out the box quickly enough and conceded a soft equaliser. Although everyone at the club was disappointed with the result we must not dwell on it. We now visit Forfar West End who along with Boness are clear favourites to go up. The pressure is on us to go there and win to keep our hopes alive. Forfar are having a very consistent season with an excellent defensive record and we will need a huge effort to get the win we require". - Graeme.

" Saturday turned out to be good day for us with a really good victory away to our local rivals. Arniston and ourselves had fought out a tough league draw at Newtongrange earlier in the season and with this in mind I was prepared for a tough battle on Saturday.The first serious effort on goal came when, after excellent play by the Arniston strikers our goalkeeper had to look sharp in turning the ball round the post. After this scare we gradually took control of the play and were rewarded with the opener midway through the half. A second from the penalty spot just before half time extended our lead. Arniston started the second half well and enjoyed most of the possession without really troubling our goal. Our third goal killed the game as a contest and the fourth followed shortly after. Overall I was delighted with the level of skill and application our players showed on a difficult surface. Saturday brings another vital league match against Musselburgh. They enjoyed a long run in the Scottish Cup and were by all accounts unlucky to be beaten by the odd goal in the fifth round.They have some extremely talented

players and also have had some terrific away wins this season so we are in for a stern test on Saturday". - Graeme 

" We have a minimum of twelve games left this season and will need all of our players at some stage during the run in. It was with this in mind that I decided to give some of our players who needed match practice a start on Saturday. Other changes were forced on us with illness and injury. On a cold windy day and a heavy pitch it was Edinburgh who started with more determination and deserved their half time lead. Some of our defending this season has not been good enough and Saturday was another example. Both goals were avoidable and we must improve in this area if we are to get further up the league. Another problem I didn't forsee was the Grant Meaney ordering off. We are rightly proud of our discipline record over the last few years and Grant knows himself that he let himself, his team mates and the club down. Playing with ten men we had by far the greater amount of possesion but it's goals that win games, and we didn't really create too many chances against a determined defence. As often happens the opposition broke upfield and scored a second to finish the game as a contest.We now have two very important league games against Arniston and Musselburgh which could go a long way in deciding our final league position.We will need to raise our game a great deal from Saturday to achieve the results we need ". - Graeme 

" I was delighted on Saturday to get another three points under our belts. In this league all teams are capable of beating each other and we knew that Armadale, despite their lowly league position, would not be easy opponents. Although the pitch had dried out a little from the previous week, conditions were still difficult with a heavy pitch and swirling wind. Although we got in behind their defence on numerous occasions in the first half I felt we didn't have our usual hunger for goals in and around the box. Fortunately we kept patient into the second half and got our reward on the hour mark with the opener. From that point on we dominated the game, scoring a hotly disputed second and creating a fair number of other chances. Overall we were deserved winners against a team who are a good deal better than their league position suggests.

On Saturday we have another cup tie against Edinburgh Utd. We have had a number of players suffering from illness recently with Meaney, Forbes and Roseburgh all missing. We are hoping that they will all return to action on Saturday in their quest to regain fitness. We will have to rest Gareth Hutchison this week as he has played the last couple of games with a very sore achilles." - Graeme

" Our participation in this seasons Scottish Cup came to an end on Saturday when we were beaten 2-0 by Cumnock. Football is not life or death but I do admit to feeling very low since the game. Everyone at the club believed we could progress to the last eight and I am sure the players and you fans are every bit as disappointed as myself and the rest of the staff. With a swirling wind and a gluepot of a pitch it was never going to be a great spectacle and in these conditions it is normally the team who apply themselves best that wins. Cumnock to their credit started the game fast and gained a two goal lead before we had started. Although we had chances to get back into the game it has to be said that Cumnock also created more chances to extend their lead. Over the piece we could have no complaints about the result and all we can do is wish Cumnock all the best in the quarter finals. They were a strong, well disciplined side who played with a great attitude and no little skill.

From our point of view it is imperative that we have no Cup hangover come Saturday when we entertain Armadale in the league. You can't help notice that Musselburgh and Linlithgow struggled with their next fixtures after elimination from the cup. We still have a lot to play for this season so let's hope we get the right reaction to Saturdays reverse." - Graeme

" Saturdays cup tie with Penicuik was our fifth meeting this season. I was a bit worried that having won the previous four games the fifth might have been a game to far. It speaks volumes for the determination and attitude of our players that they again came out on top at a very difficult place to win. The game was evenly contested in the first quarter with chances few and far between. Our first goal settled our players down and from then until half time we enjoyed our best spell and perhaps could have added more goals than we did. In the second half our players seemed happy enough to sit on the lead and with Penicuik unable to put us under any real pressure the game became a little stale. We were however delighted to progress to the quarter finals where we will travel to meet either Crossgates or Linlithgow. We can now concentrate on our Scottish Cup tie with Cumnock who last Saturday enjoyed a tremendous 3 v 1 victory over holder's Linlithgow. Hopefully this will be a cracking match against our Ayrshire opponents. What's certain is that we will have to play very well to win this one against a team who play in a league above our level. Enjoy the game. " - Graeme.

" After a month of inactivity it was great relief to hear that the Scottish Cup tie with Lochore was going ahead on

Saturday. You always worry that after a long lay off, the players may be a bit rusty. On a very difficult pitch it was fairly obvious that we would have to change our normal way of playing to get a result. It is to the players credit that they adapted so well in winning the game 4 v 0. The first half was fairly even with both teams missing chances and a 0 v 0 half time score a true reflection of play. A fine move early in the second half led to our opening goal from which we never looked back. After this goal Lochore lost their discipline and found themselves down to nine men. It is hard enough playing eleven against eleven but with two men short Lochore were always going to have a mountain to climb. We managed to score another three goals and we were delighted to come through this potentially tricky game. We are now rewarded with a home tie against either Linlithgow or Cumnock in round 5. No matter who wins that match we are in for a difficult tie, but one we should all look forward to. As a player you should always enjoy playing against the best opposition and our players are no different. Before that we have another difficult cup tie against local rivals Penicuik. Nothing less than our best will be good enough against a team packed with experience. Contary to newspaper reports it is highly unlikely that any of our players will be leaving the club before the end of this season. " - Graeme.

" We returned to league business on Saturday with a difficult looking fixture against Dundonald who had beaten us in the first league game of the season. Dundonald have lost three of their best players to Cowdenbeath and Motherwell since we last played but going by the start they made on Saturday they have signed very able replacements. They dominated the first fifteen minutes with some slick football and at that stage you could not have imagined the final scoreline. We managed to absorb their early pressure and after creating a few chances of our own. We opened the scoring midway through the half. This seemed to settle us down a bit and we increased our lead before half time. The second half was again evenly contested and it wasn't till we scored an excellent third goal that we were able to relax a bit regarding the three points. At this stage however, Dundonald had another dominant spell and if truth be told, deserved to score. We broke away to score a fourth just to rub salt into the wounds and finish the scoring. We were naturally delighted with both the performance and the result against good opposition. One worrying aspect of our performance was our fitness levels were not as good as I expected, mostly due to the disruption of training over the holiday period. Now that we can gat back to normal training these fitness levels should improve again over the next few weeks. On Saturday we can look forward to a derby league match at Arniston. They are a much improved team from the start of the season and we must be at our best to get a result ". - Graeme

" A lack lustre first half against Edinburgh cost us this cup tie on Saturday. On a difficult pitch our opponents were more often first to the ball and deserved their first half lead. I could not have no complaints about our efforts in the second half as we dominated for long spells but despite an early goal we found it difficult to create too many clear cut chances. Our playing style means we rely heavily on our full backs and wide players to get crosses into the box. On Saturday we failed to this with any quality and paid the price. As a manager I always find the holiday period quite difficult as training and games are often disrupted. This coming Saturday we must overcome this as well as our opponents Dundonald, if we are to progress in the league. Dundonald beat us in our first league game of the season and will be difficult opponents." - Graeme.

" Our good cup form continued on Saturday with a well deserved win over Harthill in the East of Scotland cup. Our

opponents came to Newtongrange on a good run of form including a Scottish Cup win at Arniston. We knew that we

were in for a tough game so naturally I was delighted with a 5 v 1 victory to earn our place in the next round. We started the game well and despite some spirited resistance we played some terrific football to go two goals in front. Harthill to their credit didn't let their heads go down and clawed their way back into the game with a goal just before half time. We started the second half even faster than the first and within ten minutes had missed three golden chances to increase our lead. Once that elusive third goal went in there was only going to be one winner and so it proved with us adding another two goals to finish convincing winners. Unfortunately Harthill lost a bit of discipline at the end of the game, and received two red cards which will hinder them in the coming weeks. I feel they will be promotion contenders from the South Division as they have a number of excellent players with good fitness and desire. JOHN DUNN is leaving the club to join the police. JOHN was one of many players we signed at the start of last season and he has played a big part in the progress of the team since. JOHN'S attitude has been first class, hardly ever missing training and generally a joy to work with. He will be sadly missed around the club and we all wish him well for the future. CHEERS JOHN. With John's departure I felt that our player pool was becoming a bit small and with that in mind we have signed ALAN WILSON from Craigroyston. ALAN is a versatile young player who will add strength, pace and ability to our squad and I hope you all join me in giving him a good 'NITTEN' welcome to the club ". - Graeme

" So far this season our league form has not quite matched our cup form. On Saturday I asked our lads for a bit extra to improve our league position, and the reponse from our players was very impressive with a professional display for the full 90mins. The first half in particular was as good as we have played since the Camelon game. A strong defence, creative midfield and excellent forward play meant we were firing on all cylinders from the kick off and fully deserving of our four goal advantage at half time. The second half was never going to be quite as good, and because the game was over as a contest, the standard dropped a little. It was particulary pleasing result as Penicuik had been playing well recently and have a vastly experienced team. A word of warning to finish though, players must never forget how hard they have to work to achieve results like Saturday's. We need to remain focused on the tough upcoming games and maintain the standards we set on Saturday " - Graeme.

" The Scottish Cup is a very special trophy for followers of junior football, so to win last Saturday and reach the 4th round was a job well done. On a heavy and difficult pitch, good football was always going to be at a premium and so it proved. I felt we dominated the match for long spells but it took us till near the final whistle to see off our visitors. Despite all our possession in the first half, it was East Kilbride who went ahead from a well delivered free kick which eneded up as an own goal. After the interval we raised our game and deservedly equalised midway through the half. It looked East Kilbride were going to hold on for a replay until that all important winner with only two minutes left. Despite that late winner I don't think anyone could dispute that we earned our victory in a hard fought encounter ". - Graeme.

" The game against Stoneyburn was over as a contest very early on Saturday. Sometimes in these games it is easy to take the foot off the pedal and lower the standard of play. It is credit to our players that they kept good habits for the duration of the game and were rewarded with some fine goals. We now turn our attention to the Scottish Cup tie with East Kilbride. They are managed by an old aquaintance of mine in John Brogan, who was one of Scotland's most prolific goalscorers in his senior career. Alan and I managed to get through and see East Kilbride in action and from what we saw it is clear that a difficult tie is in prospect. They have some excellent players matched with a good work ethic which will test our players to the full. These games are the reason we all love our football and come Saturday let's hope our players rise to the occasion and give us the result we want. Enjoy the game. " - Graeme

" Last Saturday was a make or break game for us. With a league season of 22 games it was important to be in contention at the half way point. It was therefore a major disappointment to us all that we were beaten for the third time in the league this season. We started the game well and missed a few chances early to go in front but it was Bo'ness who scored first from a free kick on the edge of our box. Bo'ness then had their best spell and scored again to put us 2 v 0 down. From that point on I felt we played really well and were ultimately a bit unfortunate not to take something from the game. We scored before half time to reduce the deficit and despite hitting the bar twice and having numerous attempts at goal it was Bo'ness who broke away to score a third and kill the game off. As a manger I always feel that breaks will even themselves out over a season. I felt on Saturday that we didn't get the rub of the green and we will play a lot worse this season and win. Fair play to Bo'ness who defended their box well and took their chances when they came along. We now find ourselves nearer the wrong end of the table and face a fight on our hands to improve our postion. I said a few weeks ago that our defending was below par this season and this is the area that we have to improve on. This is not only a back four problem as we have to learn to defend from the front. If we can stop losing so many goals then our results will improve. On Saturday we face Rosyth who last Saturday beat Kinnoull away from home. There are no easy games in this league and Saturday will be no exception ". - Graeme

" It was obvious from an early stage on Saturday that there was a huge gulf in the ability of the two teams. That said, we had to make sure there was no suprise result at our expense. Our players responded admirably and scored some excellent goals which would grace any game. We looked a bit more like ourselves straight from the kick off and we hope that this form continues into the tougher games which lie ahead. Bishopmill to their credit never gave up and also showed excellent discipline, despite the scoreline. We wish them well for the rest of the season."

- Graeme

SCOTTISH CUP 3RD ROUND DRAW - v EAST KILBRIDE (NEW VICTORIA PARK) -1st DECEMBER

Full draw on ' Nitten Talk '

 

" Last Saturday's local derby against Arniston was played in very difficult conditions with a gusty wind

blowing over a firm surface. It is easy to say we didn't play well but that be unfair on Arniston. They came to Newtongrange with a positive attitude and a much improved team from our previous encounter. Our visitors dominated early on and we could have no complaints about being two behind after half an hour. A well taken free kick just before half time gave us a lifeline and our performance improved a bit in the second half. Our equiliser arrived midway through the second half and at that stage we thought we may go on and win the game. Arniston kept their discipline well and the remainder of the game was evenly balanced with a few chances at either end. A draw was probably a fair result with the wind eventually the only winner. From our point of view it was pleasing that we could again recover from a two goal deficit but again highlighted the poor starts we have made in many games this season. Saturday brings the next round of the Scottish Cup when we welcome Bishopmill from Elgin to Newtongrange. Enjoy the game ". - Graeme

" A spirited start by our opponents had us on the back foot for the opening fifteen minutes on Saturday.

A gradual improvement in our play culminated in us taking the lead after an excellent move and finish. Despite controlling much of the remainder of the half we were fortunate to go in at half time with a lead as St Andrews hit the bar with the final move of the half. The opening exchanges of the second half were hard fought with chances at both ends. It was only in the last quarter that we gained control and added a further two goals to book our place in the next round. I felt the result flattered us a wee bit on Saturday and although we always looked like we could score our defending as a team was less impressive. More work in this area will have to be done on the training ground. Finishing games strongly is a big part of our game at the moment. Good fitness levels are a must in order to do this but equally important is the strength in depth of our squad giving us the oppotunity to replace players with others of equal ability. Finally I would like to wish RICHIE McCAUL well in his new career with Preston Athletic. It was a pleasure to have him here and I only wish every player had the same attitude as RICHIE. He expressed a wish to move on as he was not assured of a regular game and given the service he has given the club there was no chance of us standing in his way ". - Graeme.

" After the glamour of a League Cup Final at Linlithgow, an away trip to Montrose 3 days later was the

recipe for danger. Firstly the 2+ hours in a bus, but also the potential fatigue from Wednesday's game. You

often see teams having played midweek failing to achieve their best against lesser opposition on the weekend. I was therefore delighted with today's performance when I thought we totally dominated and should have won by considerably more. Albeit the opposition wasn't of Linlithgow's standard the attacking football we played was a delight to watch. I feel after the hiccup of losing our first 2 league games, we are getting back to our best and building momentum to push ourselves up the league. Football management is hard at any level and you experience many highs and lows. The highs of winning and texting Graeme the result so he could relax and enjoy his holiday, were today coupled with the lows of leaving players on the bench or not even in 16. The strength of our entire squad is critical to our success this year, as it proved last season and we will need everyone of them over the winter months. I now believe we have 19 players who not only just love playing football but love playing for Newtongrange Star and this can only breed sucess. Final word is a big thanks to our travelling support who again made themselves heard and shouted the boys to victory ". - Alan

" Driving home last night I couldn't stop thinking....what might have been. Everyone associated with the

club should be very proud of how our young side gave the best junior team in Scotland a real fright tonight, especially in the 1st half. The game plan was to keep it tight for the first 15 mins, then start to play our style and I felt we played some terrific football for large parts of the game. It was a devastating blow to lose the goal just before half time. I was disappointed to be going in level, but 2 v 1 down was a real travesty. However against the quality of Linlithgow you cannot gift them 2 goals from throw in's and expect to recover easily. Our 2nd half was a bit flatter, but if we'd been level at half time I feel it would have been a different story. It was a good benchmark for our team against the best and with a bit more experienced under our belt, we will not be far away. We must regroup tonight and be ready for Saturday's vital league game at Montrose. Hopefully the superb Nitten army will be with us again like the Kinnoull game, as the boys really appreciate the vocal support. My final thoughts are with RITCHIE McCAUL, a true Nitten legend. I really hoped to get Ritchie on tonight for his last appearance but the way things panned out we needed forwards on to try and recover. Ritchie was a mainstay for us last season and his consistency and leadership a key factor in us winning the title. On behalf of the management, sincere thanks Ritchie and all the best for the future" - Alan Prentice 

" After last years early exit to Tayport it was important to get past the first round in this season's

Scottish Cup. Although dominating for most of the game we really only felt safe when the second goal

went in. Missed chances in the first half led to a degree of frustration setting in and it took till the 44mins for us to score the opener. To Forres credit they came out fighting in the second half and gave us a few anxious moments before we finished the game in style to enter the draw for the next round. Big games are coming thick and fast for us and we have a cup final to look forward to on Wednesday at Linlithgow. They have proved themselves to be the best junior team in Scotland over the past year and will prove extremely tough opponents. From our point of view these are the games we all want to be involved in, testing ourselves against the best. I feel that our performance against Camelon in the semi final was our best of the season and a repeat of that form will be needed in the final. I am sure the Nitten support will be out in force. Enjoy the game." - Graeme.

" After five minutes on Saturday I don't think anybody could have predicted what was about to happen. It was my first visit to

Kinnoull and I was impressed both with the way they try to play football and also the discipline their players showed during the game.

 We also like to think we play the game in a professional manner and also show good discipline. It was therefore a great surprise and disappointment to find ourselves down to ten men so early in the game. I spoke to the ref at half time and he deemed that Scott had kicked his opponent and was sent off for 'violent conduct'. We can only take his word for that as I certainly did not see anything resembling violence. I was more annoyed with Scott for pushing his opponent away. After starting the game really well and going ahead early on things started to go horribly wrong. It was evident at this stage that our normally sound defence was struggling to cope with the movement and pace of the Kinnoull front line. Although we regained the lead after conceding a soft goal from a free kick, it was clear all was not well. The sending off didn't help but what happened from then to half time was not pretty from a Newtongrange perspective, and we found ourselves 4 v 2 down in double quick time. Being down to ten men meant that a few chances had to be taken and we went out with a positive attitude and formation for the second half. The players (and supporters) never say die attitude was rewarded with a second half performance we can be proud of. We got one goal back early in the second half which raised our hopes but they were dashed when Kinnoull scored from a free kick. At that point I thought we had a mountain to climb but full marks to the players for their responce. We dominated from then on in, scoring two more goals and fully deserving our share of the points. A very exciting game for the spectators but sheer hell for the mangers. On a seperate note you will be aware that I was officially sent off on Saturday for 'dissent by word'. As a manager who demands good discipline from his players, I apologise for any embarassment this has caused the club. I did get a bit carried away by a few decisions I felt had not gone our way and let my emotions get the better of me. I am very passionate about football and Newtongrange Star and on this occasion maybe over reacted to what I thought were injusticies against us. I will try my best not to let this happen again ". - Graeme.

" I would not have liked to have paid money to watch Saturdays game at Musselburgh. Apart from the opening fifteen minutes

when we looked like a team on form, there was not a lot to be happy about. I don't know if it was the tight pitch, the dry bumpy

surface, the gusty wind or lack of confidence but both teams found great difficulty in playing much quality football. After a bright opening by Newtongrange it was Musselburgh who went ahead with their first real attack of the game. From then until half time we created little in the way of chances against a determined Musselburgh defence. In the second half with the wind behind us we dominated without really looking like scoring until the game finally came to life in the final ten minutes. Musselburgh handed us a lifeline by conceding a soft penalty which was duly converted and at that stage we were relieved to be level after being behind for so long. At 1 v 1 Musselburgh were unlucky to hit the post before some sustained pressure led to an injury time goal to put us ahead. A frantic finish ended with a Musselburgh equiliser from a free kick in the fifth minute of added time. Perhaps a draw was a fair result and our performances will have to improve if we want to get up the league in the coming weeks" - Graeme

" After our opening two defeats it was a great relief to us all to pick up our first points on Saturday. Although not firing on all

cylinders I felt we did enough to merit the three points. It is always difficult going back to a ground where we had already won a few

games this season and so it proved on Saturday. We opened very brightly and went ahead midway through the half only to be pegged back just before half time. Up to then we had played really well and were maybe a shade unlucky not to be in front. We also started the second half well and got our just rewards early on. For a short while after the goal we threatened to increase our lead but nothing came of it. Penicuik then went down to ten men which should have made our task that bit easier. As so often is the case the opposite happened and Penicuik's best spell was the last fifteen minutes when they could have equilised. A few of our young lads tired in that last period and we allowed too many crosses into our box for comfort. Our midfield which had been so dominant for the first hour lost their way and allowed the excellent Brian Ryrie to dominate that area too easily. In the end we were glad to hear the final whistle. We now have another two difficult away games at Musselburgh and Kinnoull where points will be hard to come by" - Graeme

"Played two, lost two is not the start we wanted in our league campaign, but that's where we stand. The loss to Dundonald was

understandable given the schedule we had, but Saturday was unacceptable. Over ninety minutes I felt we only had one, maybe two

players who played anywhere near their best and it is always going to be difficult to win games in these circumstances . As a club we

must always remember we have no god given right to win any game and we have to work much harder as a team and as individuals to gain success. Saturday was the first time in a long while that the will to win and togetherness as a team just wasn't there. We accept loss of form but we cannot accept lack of application. It is now the job of the management and players to lift ourselves out of this rut and get back to winning ways as soon as possible. Lastly one of the reasons we won the league last year was the strength in depth we had, particularly at the end of the season. The down side of this is that only eleven players can start each game and there are some disappointed players each Saturday. While I do understand the frustration of not playing, we can't have it both ways. Going with a small squad is not a great option and we hope that competition for places will benefit us over the season". - Graeme

" You would think after a long run of winning games, a defeat might be easier to accept. Unfortunately that's not the

case and I spent the rest of the weekend on a downer. I am sure our players were equally disappointed with the

outcome on Saturday. We must now pick ourselves up and get back to winning ways as soon as possible. Saturday was our twelfth competitive game this season and to have lost only one game is not too bad. We will all be glad of the break this week to allow us a normal training week in preparation for the visit of Forfar on Saturday. The game itself on Saturday was played in very windy conditions but with the pitch in good nick. With the wind at our backs in the first half we created numerous chances but failed to take any of them and found ourselves a goal down at half time. We gradually took control of the match and when we equilised I thought we would go on to win the match. However a late winner by Dundonald ended our winning run and sent us home pointless". - Graeme

" If the Camelon game was to be a guide to our progress as a club then I think it proved that we are on the right lines.

As expected, Camelon proved to be an excellent team and from my point of view i thought the first half in particular

was a great advert for Junior football. The passing and movement of both teams was of a high standard and that

added to the normal passion of junior football players made for an exciting tussle. Camelon started the better and dominated the first fifteen minutes only for us to score in our first serious attack. I felt we then had the edge for the rest of the half and could have been further ahead at half time than we were. The second half was a much tighter affair with not too many chances on offer at either end. I was particularly pleased with our disciplined defending, whilst continuning to look dangerous going forward. Our late penalty was the icing on the cake and we can now look forward to a cup final against Linlithgow Rose. On Saturday we visit Cardenden to play Dundonald after a hectic schedule to say the least. A difficult game is in prospect against a side who also won their regional league last season ". - Graeme

" A good first half performance against Tranent ensured that we won all our section matches in the league cup. The

much changed team didn't seem to affect us too much and some of our attacking play was excellent. we now move

on to the semi final against Super league team Camelon on Wednesday night. They will prove formidable opponents as they too have won all their section games. these are the games the players and hopefully the Nitten faithful look forward to. Let's hope for a big crowd and an entertaining match". - Graeme

"A trip to Dunbar is now one of the pleasures in junior football. The facilities are superb with a pitch that is the envy of

most. This set up surely a role model of were part time professional clubs should be. The game itself was hard

fought in the first quarter with Dunbar maybe a bit unlucky not to score in that period. After a defensive mistake we

took the lead and thereafter never looked under pressure. This result confirms our semi final spot and we can look forward to

a game against Camelon, a team from the Super league. These are the games that we all look forward to, providing us with a change to gauge our progress as a club. Before that we have a game on Monday against Tranent which we can now use to

improve the match fitness of some players who have not figured regularly to date." - Graeme

GRAEME'S VIEW ON THE ARNISTON GAME:

" An away cup tie against our local rivals Arniston was always going to be a tough test for us, particularly after their

two good results against Penicuik and Musselburgh. That said, we should really have had been out of sight at half time,

squandering a hatful of chances to increase our lead. As always a slender one goal advantage never seems enough and true to form Arniston scored with their first chance. After that goal, we had a sticky ten minutes before regaining initiative scoring the winner with around ten minutes left. We now need one more point to be sure of our place in the semi finals with games against Dunbar and Tranent to come. The whole playing squad along with Bernie, Colin and Alan have worked real hard to attain current fitness levels and hopefully this will continue to help us as the season unfolds"

"Yesterdays win at Penicuik gave me a lot of satisfaction for a number of reasons. First and most important the result

gives us a great chance to go on and clinch a semi final spot by winning the section. Secondly it is always difficult to

win away against an experienced Penicuik team packed with good players. Thirdly it is encouraging to achieve this kind of result an also to have so many good players waiting in the wings. We now have a sqaud of players who are are all capable of playing at this level and this can only help in the quest for further success. The game itself was played in heavy rain but with the pitch in good condition. Penicuik started the stronger but as the first half progressed we gradually got the upper hand. An early goal in the second half settled us down and from then on we never really looked like loosing our lead".

"Overall we must be happy with the way we have started the season but as always there is room for improvement.

Last night against Haddington we ended up with a comfortable looking 4 v 1 result but that doesn't tell the true story.

We started the game positively and deserved our early advantage. Although we continued to dominate possession

we only rarely threatened to add to that lead. Haddington gradually began to get better of midfield and their equaliser

was no more than they deserved. Our players once again proved their hunger and fitness in the last quarter of the game and

after missing a number of clear chances we went on to score three late goals. We are in the middle of a busy period of games

and now that we have a full squad to pick from, I will be changing the team around a bit. We have a tough fixture at Penicuik on Saturday, a team who have had an inconsistent start to the season. They are a team full of good players and we will need to be at our best to get a result. " - Graeme.

" Last night's match against Musselburgh was no doubt exciting for the paying public but for the managers it was a

 bit of torture. People in football say you learn more in defeat than when winning and last night was no exception. I

learned more about our team and players during that first half than in any of the victories we have achieved recently.

Team selection was difficult with some of our players missing, but I must put my hand up and say that I got the shape

 of our team all wrong last night. That added to some unusually poor performances gave us a mountain to climb in the second half. Going down to ten men made it even more difficult and it was a credit to the players fitness, application and sheer desire that we were able to come back and win the game. Looking ahead to the other League cup fixtures, I will be trying to make sure all our players are fit and raring to go for the start of our League campaign whilst also trying our best to qualify for the semi finals. Steven Thomson has a broken toe but is now making progress and should be playing soon but unfortunately John Stanton's long term injury continues to give cause for concern and he will again have to visit the medics to try and get to the root of the problem. " - Graeme

STAR START

Star fielding 8 new faces tonight got of to a winning start to the season with a 3 v 1 win over a much improved Dalkeith Thistle in the Andy Kelly Trophy.

The club's official match programme has a new professional look to it this season with a glossy cover page.

Player Sponsorship

Players can now be sponsored by individuals, companies or anybody. Each player is available at only £50.00 for the season, more details are available by emailing the club at newtongrangestar@aol.com

Haddington Athletic goalkeeper Chris Hill has signed for the Star.

     

FORFAR IN SUPER LEAGUE

Forfar gained the second spot after a 2 v 0 victory over Dundee North End tonight. Congratulations to Forfar West End football club.

STAR SPOIL PARTY

The STAR produced yet another fine performance at Boness with a excellent 3 v 0 victory over the East Premier League champions. Having to win at Newtown Park to keep the pressure on Forfar, the STAR took the game to Boness right from the start and within 6 minutes took the lead from a sweet left foot strike from GIELTY from the edge of the box. A dream start which was to continue in the 18th minute. MEANEY was upended in the box and mister cool THOMSON slotted the spot kick away. It wasn't to end there and 2 minutes later STAR were in heaven when MEANEY made it 3 v 0. With the end of the season just one match away, the large travelling support were wishing for more of this football from the STAR. The second half was a fairly dull affair with a few chances falling to both sides. Full time Bo'ness United 0 v 3 STAR.

 

ANOTHER VITAL 3PTS

The STAR grabbed another big 3 pts with a 2 v 0 win at Armadale. The STAR were always in control of this match, winning in all areas of the pitch.A few chances were squandered in the first half and the half time score was 0 v 0. The second was much the same with the STAR pressing the 'Dale' goal,looking for that first goal. It arrived via DUNBAR who cleverly chipped the keeper on the 6 yard box before ramming the ball home. The goal settled the large travelling STAR support who were starting to get nervous. All was signed and sealed when HUTCHISON drove his shot home from 18 yards to make it 2 v 0 and keeping promotion hopes still alive. On Tuesday night the STAR travel to Linlithgow for a Fife & Lothians cup tie and some light relief from the league campaign. Our last visit to Prestonfield saw the STAR producing some lovely football in the league Cup final, sadly only to lose out 1 v 3. Next Saturday is a another big match with a tough visit to Bo'ness where once again a win & 3 pts a must.

FIXTURES

League - Saturday 17th May v Boness United (away)

2ND HALF BLITZ

1 down at half time, ARMSTRONG must have gave some half time talk. Because the STAR gave a wonderful display of football to totally blow away Rosyth's chances of staying in the East Premier league next season. Having started the game well and with good chances falling to HUTCHISON, THOMSON, the STAR faithful must have been wondering, if it was going to be one of those days. Against the run of play Rosyth took the lead in the 32nd min with a clever lob from outside the box to beat BURGESS. A big concern was for MacNAMARA who had a bad clash of heads and was replaced by GIELTY. The second half football from the STAR was great to watch and in the 52nd min HUTCHISON scored his first goal of 3 with a powerful header from a corner. He followed up 4 mins later for No2. Britton grabbed a headed 3rd goal from close in and in the 73 min HUTCHISON got his hat-rick to make it 4v1.The fifth arrived via the penalty spot from THOMSON and DUNBAR rounded off a great half to blitz Rosyth 6 v 1. Next week at Armadale a similar display is needed to keep the pressure on Forfar.

The Star kept the pressure on Forfar with a 4 goals to one beaten of relegation threaten Montrose. 2 goals from HUTCHISON, a fantastic free kick from DUNBAR & MANSON with another last minute forty yarder. STAR still need Forfar to slip up in the run up. Full time: Star 4 v 1 Montrose Roselea.

A very important message

I was approached in the car park after today game by Mr MANSON. He informed me that he scored a goal at Kelty and not to give HUTCHY all the credit. I was forced to my hands & knees until I apologised for the blunder. He also informed me that its his 32nd birthday on 1st May and he would like to congratulate himself and tell himself he is buying himself a birthday present. He will also buy anybody a drink in the Star club that would say he is the best Star player ever to grace Newtongrange. Nice one Craigy boy, happy birthday from the supporters.

Stevie 'Chunky' Hardies testimonial match

A new date has been set for Chunky's postponed match v Glasgow Rangers XI. Its Sunday 18th May with a 2.00pm kick off. The clubs A.G.M is at 12.00 noon same day.

THE FAT CONTROLLER DENIES STAR 3 POINTS

The STAR had that many chances at Dundee today to win this game easily. Played in glorious sunshine (but still bitter) and against a strong wind blowing in the first half, the STAR took the game to North End. Chances where flying in, Dunbar had a great chance to take the lead but shot over the bar, then Hutchison from 6 yards could only strike the keeper who kept Dundee North End in this game. With very little attacks on BURGESS goal North End took the lead against the run of play. The STAR just couldn't make the break through they deserved and the half time score was 1 V 0. STAR had the strong wind on their backs and surely a goal would arrive. Chances fell to many STAR players with Hutchison looking the best bet to score. Half way through the half everything went BELLY up. A free kick from THOMSON fell to SWANNEY on the edge of the box, who then returned it into the goalmouth. HUTCHISON came round the back of the defenders and rose to head the ball into the net. The fat controller decided to raise his flag for offside. Having watched the video replay, it clearly shows HUTCHISON onside when it left SWANNEYS boot. BRITTON can be seen at the back of the box but was not interferring with play and making no attempt to get involved. This decision could cost STAR in the race for 2nd spot and this linesman was a total disgrace being over ruled by the referee on many ocassions. The STAR pushed and pushed for the equiliser and it finally came from sub MANSON in the dying seconds from close range. Promotion now looks bleak. Dundee North End 1 v 1 Star

BELOW PERFORMANCE

The STAR produced probably their worst performance at Forfar and probably at the wrong time in the season. Needing a victory to keep in touch with Forfar West End the STAR got off to best possible start within 2 minutes. DUNBAR was impeded inside the box and THOMSON tucked the penalty away to make it 1 v 0. The STAR shoud have then took it to Forfar but the reverse happened. Forfar did equilised in the 25th minute after Buchan was dispossed just outside the box. West End looked more hungrier than STAR in all departments and just before half time had a claim for a penalty turned down by the referee, who along with his linesmen had a poor afternoon.The second half started in the same vein with Forfar dominating most of the play, especially in the midfield. In the 64th minute Forfar took the lead with another penalty after hand ball. Forfar deserved their lead and the STAR faithful couldn't see where a goal would come from but it did in the 89th minute. WILSON had a good run down the left passed the ball into the middle of the box and the big centre half stuck out his leg, deflecting the ball into his own net and giving the STAR a life line in the promotion race. Next week at Dundee a must 3pts for the STAR or its all over for the season. Forfar West End 2 v 2 STAR.

Fixtures

Saturday 26th April......v Montrose Roselea (home) - League

Saturday 3rd May......v Rosyth (away) - League

SITE UPDATES

" Just back from 2 weeks in a very sunny Portugal and the site desperately needs updated. I filmed the Musselburgh game just before I left and it will be on the Star T.V page sometime later this week. Camera will back in action on Saturday at Forfar where by all accounts a must win match after dropping 4 points at home to Musselburgh & Kinnoull. Graeme has emailed me reports of the Musselburgh & Kelty games and no doubt a report of the Kinnoull game on Saturday will be winging it's way to me this week. The Oz blogs will also be updated. A busy week in store". - Aly Gaff

 

5 * STAR

The STAR outplayed, outclassed and outshown our near neighbours Arniston at Newbyres Park. Following a 2 nil defeat by Edinburgh last Saturday, the STAR were determand to make amends, and they did. The STAR had to win to keep themselves in the promotion race and in the 29th minute took the lead from McNICOLL from close range. A second goal before half time was crucial and it arrived via the spot from THOMSON in the 42nd minute. DUNBAR was having a field day down the right and he continued into the second half given the right back all problems. The STAR were playing some neat football and goals 3 & 4 were special. The third goal was a peach from THOMSON picking his spot in the top left corner of the goal from outside the box. And not to be out done, DUNBAR unleashed a volley from just inside the box to make it 4 v 0. Arniston should have no complaints on the outcome and now find themselves back into the relegation mix. Final score Arniston Rangers 0 v 4 STAR.

STEVIE THOMSON'S PENALTY WAS THE STAR'S 100TH GOAL THIS SEASON

Edinburgh United completed the double over the STAR in the local cups this season with a 2 nil victory on a heavy New Victoria Park. GRAEME ARMSTRONG rang the changes again with the starting line up, resting mr ever present HUTCHISON,ROSEBURGH and HARDIE. DUNBAR, GIELTY, SWANNEY all on the bench allowing BUCHAN, CURRAN and MacNAMARA a start. With a heavy league fixture card coming up it was a wise move by ARMSTRONG to rotate the squad and a move which may pay off in the next few weeks. Edinburgh were the hungrier team from the start and opened the scoring in 14 mins. MEANEY was showing the red card in 26 mins for violent conduct as the STAR had the bulk of the play. Both teams handled the blustery conditions well and bog like park in places.The STAR in the second half again pressured the Edinburgh defence with no results and with one of Edinburgh's very few second half chances made it 2 v 0 in 64 mins.

FIXTURES

March 29th (A) v Kelty Hearts....East of Scotland....KO 2.30pm

NEW - THE RUSSELLS OZ BLOG - EPISODE 7

CUP DRAWS

East of Scotland....Kelty Hearts v STAR

Dechmont Cup......Penicuik Ath v STAR or Edinburgh Utd

Fife & Lothians.....Crossgates or Linlithgow v STAR

NEW VIDEO..........GOALS ! GOALS! GOALS!......SEE NITTEN TALK PAGE

STAR BEAT CUIKY FOR THE FIFTH TIME THIS SEASON

The STAR once again beat Penicuik Ath, 2 nil at Penicuik Park in the Fife & Lothians cup.Goals from THOMSON in 27mins, a shot from a very tight angle and MEANEY from the head in 36 mins, in what was a very comfortable afternoon for the STAR.

THE STAR HAVE BEEN OFFICIALLY AWARDED THE 3PTS FROM THE ROSYTH GAME

NEW......A tribute to Damien Gielty ........see Nitten Talk Page

Scottish Cup 5th round draw :

 STAR v Linlithgow Rose or Cumnock

to be played February 16th

Fife & Lothians - 3rd round draw

Dunbar or Blackburn V Bathgate or Lochgelly or Broxburn

Oakley or Musselburgh V Camelon or Whitburn

Hill Of Beath or Arniston V Sauchie or Pumpherston

Crossgates or Linlithgow V Penicuik or Newtongrange

Next Saturday's game will be at Central Park, Lochore. If the game is called off again the Star will NOT be playing Penicuik as they have arranged a friendly v Glenrothes at Penicuik Park. Which begs the question, maybe the tie could be taken to Glenrothes if Lochore is unplayable?

REFEREE FARCE AT LOCHORE......A ref called Mr Crichton decided to get up this morning and cost alot of people to lose money but not himself. At precisely 9.00am this morning he declares Central Park fit & playable. He then collects a inspection fee. The weather improves and no rain falls. At 1.00pm he now decides the game is off. The big Nitten support are now sitting spending money on bevy having already paid for their buses. The Club have already paid for their bus and Lochore have 200 pies heating in the ovens after working on the pitch. So what happens next. Mr Crichton and his 2 side kicks ask to get paid. Now I'm not the cleverest bloke around but surely there is a big problem after today...Have a say on the messageboard.

Buses to Lochore on Saturday.......

Groats bus leaving from the Dean...10.00am (Full)

Aly's bus leaving from the Dean.......11.15am (Full)

Club bus leaving from Star Club........11.30am (Full)

RYAN CURRAN out for a few weeks with a groin injury.DAMIEN GIELTY nearing full fitness and DAVIE BUCHAN will miss Arniston game due to business but will be back for Lochore game.

A big Nitten welcome to new signing ALAN WILSON who made his home debut on Saturday. Alan was signed from East of Scotland club, Craigroyston.

 

STAR AT PUMPHERSTON NEXT SATURDAY

The Star will travel to Recreation Park Pumpherston on league business next Saturday with a 2.30pm kick off.

For the second week in a row, the STAR produced yet another under par performance and got a victory. At the end of the day its the points that count the performance will be forgotting. On a bright afternoon at Station Park it was the STAR who attacked from the start, forcing Livingston back for most of the first half. Points of note was a MEANEY shot well over the bar which nearly hit No 74's front door. The 1st goal was a scrappy affair with BRITTON in the right spot at the back post, plenty of possesion with nothing at the end. Second half started the same resulting in a midfield battle, again plenty of possesion but with no real finish. Livingston were coming back into the game and equilised with a half over head kick just inside the box into PAXTON'S right hand corner. The STAR had to dig deep now and duly scored their 2nd through DUNBAR who drove it between the keepers legs. DUNN scored No 3 with a glacing header from close range. Livingston never gave up and got a free kick on the edge of the box, which was sweetly converted to make it a nail biting last 2 minutes. As the saying goes, a win's a win.

 

NEWBATTLE AT WAR

An excellent site on the men who fought in WW1

see latest news page

 

Website Sponsor required

It looks like we have outgrown this free website and is now time to upgrade the package to allow me to upload more phjotgraphs of our games. At present I can only upload 2 off the Tranent game as these photo's are large files and this site has a small storage capacity. If anybody would like to sponsor the whole site for a year, which is not very expensive, just enough to cover the package cost, please get in contact with me for more details through the contact page.

Cheers

Aly Gaff

BIG WIN

That 9 goal demolition of Tranent was just a matter of time. Over the season so far the STAR have been creating so many chances that a big win like that was going to happen at sometime. The game got off to the best possible start when in the first 2 mins STEVEN THOMPSON stroked home the opener. No 2 a corner from JOHN DUNN and GRANT MEANEY got the slighest of touches at the near post. Tranent pulled one back catching the STAR defence square. No 3 was a howler for keeper Robin Rae, a free kick from JOHN DUNN straight at Rae who couldn't hold the ball , spinning through his legs. Half time 3 v 1.

The second half started the same with the STAR pounding the Tranent goal. No 4 was a beauty from STUART ROSEBURGH with a 18 yard volley from the edge of the box. No 5 - GRANTS second goal. By this time the wee man (CRAIG MANSON) was getting pelters from the vocal Star support in the enclosure, saying kind things like, come on Craig you've not scored for a week and thats 2 goals each the rest have scored. But like a good professional he wasn't missing no party himself. No 6 was indeed CRAIG MANSON's goal and going by the celebrations after, I think he enjoyed that one. No 7 was JOHN DUNN's 2nd. CRAIG MANSON rounded off a superb comeback with a header and his 2nd and STARS 8th, after some neat passing football involving PAUL FORBES and STUART ROSEBURGH. My man of the match only just was JOHN DUNN who scored No 9 and his hat-rick. Absolutely fantastic lads all round.

A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

MR MANSON does it again with two classsic poachers goals. KING CRAIG must be the sign of the season. The wee man just knows where to be at the right time. All credit must go to DAMIEN GIELTY for creating the first goal with his mazy run on the edge of the box only to get up ended inside the 'D'. He duly stepped up an curled a low drive with power, keeper could not hold it and the wee man was of course there. This was by no means an easy game and Sauchie had their fair share of midfield possesion. Goal No 2 didn't look like coming, then JOHN DUNN set up, guess who, who then said merry xmas to the excited STAR fans in the enclosure. Don't be suprised on Christmas morning when you look under your tree the wee man might just be there. Well done boys all round, this was a big 3 pts and you all passed with flying Stars.

A Merry Christmas to all the players, committee, fans, w.a.g.s and our opposition.

STAR MUST WIN TODAY!

The Star must be ruthless in front of goal this afternoon and start to punish the opponents. Newtongrange Star in well over 90% of matches this season so far , dominate or has the bulk of ball possesion. Its now time to turn this possesion into goals. Good luck lads.

A friendly with Spartans has been arranged for Tuesday 2nd January, according to the Spartans forum website. More details when known.

 

STAR DOMINATE AT PATIES ROAD - BUT LOSE OUT

Wasn't at Paties Road on Saturday, but by all accounts the STAR dominated this match and woeful finishing let them down. This was a vital league match for the STAR and it is a very big 3 pts dropped. The next 2 home games coming up has to be 6 pts nothing less or more ground will be lost on the current leaders.

STAR GRIND OUT WIN AT HARTHILL

The STAR earned a well fought 3 points today at Harthill. Played in heavy conditions at Gibbshill Park, they were all square at half time. The STAR were first to score just after the restart when GRANT McMEANIE headed from 4 yards. Harthill levelled from the penalty spot. A Midfield battled ensued then PAUL FORBES popped up with a header to make it 2 v 1. GRANT McMEANIE got his 2nd goal and STAR'S 3rd and STAR were now in control from then on.

A big welcome to our new signing TOM BRITTON from Berwick Rangers. Tom played today at Harthill and had a comfortable debut.

New page - Next Opponents

Fife & Lothians Cup - Draw

away to WHITBURN JUNIORS - date to be arranged

Full draw on latest news page

NEXT 3 WEEKS FIXTURES

Saturday 9th Dec (A) v Harthill Royal

Saturday 16th Dec (A) v Edinburgh United

Saturday 23rd Dec (H) v Sauchie

Photographer required for the website.

Another 2pts dropped at home in the league after a 1 v 1 draw with Blackburn United. The Star started well and dominated the early play and were rewared with a soft penatly decision, which MANSON slotted away. From then onwards the STAR took their foot of the pedal and let Blackburn slowly get back into the game. Once again the STAR were creating many scoring chances but failed once more in finishing off the opposition. Blackburn finished the stronger team and their fans must have left the match wondering how they did not win it. A killer streak is required if the STAR have any ambitions in winning this league.

 

Today we welcome BLACKBURN UNITED to New Victoria park on league business. Blackburn had a fine 3 v 2 victory at home to Lochore Welfare last Saturday in the Fife & Lothians cup and will be looking to make it difficult for the high flyer Star this afternoon. Kick off is 1.45pm

Next Saturday 2nd Dec, were are at home to Armadale Thistle in the Dechmont Forklift cup 2nd round.

The Star continued playing nice neat football today with a deserved 2 v 1 win at Rosyth. CRAIG MANSON opened the scoring in the first half after ROSIE sent in a lovely back post cross. Rosyth were reduced to 10 men in the second half, they then started getting back into the game and equilised midway through the half. The Star were still creating many scoring chances and GRANT McMEANEY thought he had clinched the game but was ruled offside. With extra time loomimg a great run from DAMIEN GIELTY resulted in a penalty kick, then all hell broke loose and a Rosyth player stupidly kicked DAMIEN on the head-OFF he went. CRAIG MANSON dully stepped up and sent the STAR into the next round - WELL DONE AGAIN LADS.

25th Nov v Blackburn United (H)- league

2nd Dec v Armadale Thistle (H) - Dechmont forklift cup