Border Telegraph | Sport | Sutherland boost as the 'Dean kick off new season

Friday, 5th December, 2008

Published: Wednesday, 13th August, 2008 09:00

Sutherland boost as the 'Dean kick off new season

By Ally McGilvray

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GALA Fairydean striker Des Sutherland has turned down a bumper pay day to stay and help the club win promotion this season.

It has emerged the prolific goalscorer was offered a four-figure signing-on fee by junior side Tranent to leave the East of Scotland League Division One club during the summer.

However, despite not being paid to play at Netherdale, he has opted to reject the move.

It is a massive boost for the ‘Dean as they prepare to kick-off their season at home to Gretna 2008 tonight (Wednesday) kick-off 7.45 p.m.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph this week, Gala Fairydean co-manager Brian Templeton said: “Everybody is up for it.

“We are aiming for a win, given it is our first (competitive) game - and at home - this season.

“All the boys are working hard for each other in training. None of them get paid for it. They are all playing for the jersey.”

Gretna 2008 sit second in Division One after a 3-0 win at Kelso United in front of a 100-strong travelling support last weekend.

But the ‘Dean, who will be without forward Jamie Gibson (holiday) while Paul Mackay (thigh) is a doubt, are confident they have a squad capable of scoring a result.

They defeated Hawick Legion 1-0 in a friendly match on Saturday after their Image Printers Cup first round tie against Edinburgh University, which was rearranged for this Saturday, was postponed.

Templeton added: “Our aim is to win promotion this season and three points would be a good start.”

Meanwhile, Selkirk also kick-off their season this weekend after their opening game with champions Whitehill Welfare, scheduled for last Saturday, was washed out.

Paul Brownlee’s new charges tackle Nithsdale Wanderers away in the SFA South Regional Cup on Saturday.

But their game at home to Dalbeattie Star was also postponed. It was due to be played tonight.

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