'We need to push now for a senior club'

Ally McGilvray 1606 - 1606 • Last updated 12 Jun 2008 15:37 0 Comments

FOOTBALL fans in the Borders may no longer have to travel hundreds of miles every season to watch a senior team play at home.

Gala Fairydean have refused to rule themselves out of the race to replace Gretna in the Scottish Football League after their fellow Borders club resigned their place last week.

Annan Athletic, Cove Rangers, Preston Athletic and Spartans have already made public their intention to apply ahead of the deadline for formal applications tomorrow (Thursday).

Now the Netherdale side, who play in the East of Scotland League, have notified the SFL of their interest.

Gala match secretary John Clayton said: 'I thought we were not going to apply, but our chairman has put in a notice of interest. Whether we follow it up with a full application, I don't know, but it would be a shame if we were to miss out.'

Gala failed with applications in 1966, 1994, 2000 and 2002, when Gretna were successful after Airdrieonians went into liquidation.

The club, whose most famous product is former Celtic and Everton midfielder John Collins, have had a lean period in the East league in recent seasons and finished fifth in Division One this term.

Spartans, who are the bookmakers' favourites to replace Gretna, finished third in the Premier Division.

But, speaking ahead of Gala Fairydean"s centenary dinner earlier this year, the SFA"s senior youth development officer for the area, Dougie Anderson, said: 'With all the kids playing the game across the region now and the structure that is there to bring players through the development squads we really need to push for a senior club in the Borders.'

The actual decision itself won't be taken until July 3, after clubs have first been subjected to a preliminary audit by the league management committee and then permitted to give a short presentation at Hampden prior to a vote of the 29 remaining member clubs.

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This article appeared in Border Telegraph 12 Jun 08

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