GALA Fairydean Rovers started their pre-season fixtures with a 1-1 draw against League One’s Kelty Hearts last night Wednesday June 27 2023 at New Central Park.

Youngster Ciaran Greene skippered the side in the absence of the injured Gareth Rodger.

Kelty had the better of the opening period but former Hibernian, Falkirk & Airdire goalkeeper Jay Cantley was in fine form.

Nicky Reid opened the scoring for Gala two minutes before the break

16-year-old Sam Ostle from GFR Amateurs came on for the last 30-minutes.

Ross Cunningham with the equaliser in the 79th minute with a 25-yard wonder strike.

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Gala boss Martin Scott said: "It was a good result and a good performance particularly in the first-half against a good Kelty Hearts side.

"I was happy with the players' resilience in the latter stages and thier determination not to concede.

"All the new signings started and were really good. It was really pleasing to see how they integrated into our group. 

"Jay Cantley was really comfortable and will be a good addition. I always knew it would be hard to Ruairidh Adams who was on loan from Dundee United but Jay is an exceptional goalkeeper. 

"Nicky Reid did what he does well and scored just before hallf time, Kyle Semple worked his socks off at left back and Jamie Semple di well to last the 90-minutes and was unfortunate not to get a goal.

"I'm really going to enjoy working with this group.

"We brought on young Sam Osstle who is a local lad and has just turned 16. Sam played for the Amateurs last season and did well and he has a bright future ahead. 

"Another local lad Ciaran (Greene) stepped up to captain the side as Gareth (Rodger) has a slight groin injury and Danny (Galbraith) was unavailable.

"And it was great to see the senior players helping the youngsters."

Gala’s pre-season fixtures continue with an away fixture against Hill of Beath Hawthorn on Saturday July 1.

Their first home game is against Kilsyth Rangers on Saturday July 8 when the fans will have the chance to see the newcomers in action. Kick off 2pm.

Three days later on Tuesday July 11 Martin Scott’s men face Broxburn Athletic in West Lothian. Kick off 7.45pm

Their final pre-season friendly will be at Netherdale on Saturday July 15 against Newtongrange Star. Kick off 2pm.

Gala will open their Lowland League campaign with an away fixture against Bo’ness United on Saturday July 22, kick off 3pm.

Their first home game is against East Stirlingshire on Tuesday July 25 kick off 7.45pm and this is followed by another home fixture against Hearts B on Saturday July 29 kick off 3pm.