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Fixtures 2009/10 Under 13's - Under 14's - Under 16's - Under 19's

21st July 2010

It seems no time since fixtures were completed for last season and the pre-season is on us again. Below is what is happening at the Youth Development this pre-season.

The under 19's season is scheduled to start on the 15th August and the 17's on the 29th August, fixtures should be announced in the next couple of weeks. The under 14's and 15's seasons start date in the SFA Pro-Youth has yet to be confirmed.

Tonight 21st July 19's @ Dunipace ko 7.15

Thursday 22nd July 17's @ Ayr Utd, Belmont Academy ko 7.45

Thursday 22nd July 14's & 15's start pre-season at Kings Park

Saturday 24th July 19's v Bannockburn Ams @ Forthbank 2.15

Wednesday 28th July 19's v Stirling Ams @ Kings Park 7.15

Thursday 29th July 15's v Alva Swifts @ Alva

Friday 30th July 14's v Stenhousemuir@Forthbank 7.15

Sunday 1st August 17's v Forfar @ Forthbank 12.15 prov

Sunday 1st August 15's v Stenhousemuir  @ Forthbank 2pm

Tuesday 3rd August 19's v Milton Ams away 7.15 (tbc)

Friday 6th August 19's v Edinburgh City @ forthbank 7.15

Saturday 7th August 14's v Hamilton 13's@ Bent Fields 1pm

Saturday 7th August 15's v Hamilton 14's @ Forthbank 1pm

Tuesday 10th August 19's v Stirling Uni B @ Stirling 7pm

Thursday 12th Aug 19's Uphall Ama Away tbc

Thursday 12th August 15's v Ineos Star 7pm Little Kerse, Grangemouth

Sunday 15th August 14's v Dunfermline @ Forthbank tbc

Sunday 19th August 19's v Spartans @ Ainslie Park 3pm if they have no league game.

15's are awaiting confirmation of a date for a match v Riverside at the Haws Park

Sunday 27th June

The under 14's finally ended their season at the Toryglen Football Centre in Glasgow against an excellent Queens Park side with defeat. The boys did though turn in a good performance as they continue to improve their development.

The game could not have got off to a worst start when the homeside took a 2nd minute lead. The game though became tight and not too many chances were created by either side in the first period. Late in the period though the young Binos began to create a couple of chances. Ian McIntyre saw his low shot superbly saved by the home keeper and from the resultant corner the Queens keeper once again pulled off a great save from a Connor Pearson header.

The second period saw few goalmouth efforts and both sides went in to the final period still with the same scoreline.

In the third period the Queens goalkeeper once again blocked an Ian McIntyre shot and the visitors were stunned when two goals in as many minutes saw Queens Park score twice with close in shots. The Albion though were not to be denied and Ian McIntyre finally saw a shot hit the net. They could not though get the goals back to end the season on a high.

Wednesday 23rd June

The under 14's are to play one more game this season. This Sunday they travel to Queens Park. The game will take place at Torryglen beside Hampden park. Kick off is 1pm.

Sunday 20th June

The under 14's rounded off their season with a home match against Elgin City.

With the heat on the astroturf pitch the boys from both teams provided an entertaining match. The Bino boys began strongly pushing the visitors back. It was though Elgin who had the first opportunity when their forward broke in to the box and keeper Liam Harper produced a good save to stop them taking the lead.

The Albion continued to dominate the game but could not make the break through until a couple of minutes before the end of the first period when right back Stephen Al-Sayed produced some excellent play which finished with a ball into the channel to Ian McIntyre who finished low in to the net.

The second period continued in the same vain with the reds pushing but it was the visitors who got back on level terms when their forward fired in an excellent shot into the top corner of the net from just inside the box. The Albion though hit back and good work on the right by Jordan Herron whose cut back was stroked home by Ian McIntyre for his 30th goal of the season. They were though brought back to level terms when the visitors got a free kick just outside of the box and the Elgin player hit a shot high into the net.

Once again the Albion dominated the third period and took the lead for the third and last time when a Chris Ogilvie corner saw Connor Pearson's header blocked but it fell to Craig Hepburn to score the winner. Although dominating the remainder of the play they could not add to their lead.

The Youth Development would like to thank the 14's parents who provided food and drink for the Elgin players after the match after their long return journey.

Saturday 19th June

The under 13's, 14's and 16's were in action today but not on the pitch. The players from each team were enjoying their end of season day out at Delta Force Paintball.

The players enjoyed their day and there was no injuries sustained except for a few bruises. Congratulations to Stephen Day of the 16's who was awarded the Top Gun for the day after he took out the terminator.

Thursday 17th June

The Youth department are pleased to announce Greg Miller as our new Head of Youth Coaching.

This week the under 13's travelled to play Dumbarton on Tuesday evening. They once again turned in a strong performance to win in what was a tough match. Goals from Cameron Smith, Sean Brown and a third goal gave them the advantage to the brace scored from Dumbarton.

Tonight the under 14's played host to Dumbarton also. Against a team they have struggled against this season they turned in a good performance in front of new coaching Head of Youth Greg Miller, unfortunately they went down by the odd goal in three. The visitors started the strongest but slowly the Albion came in to the match in the first period which ended goaless. The second period saw the young binos take control and were playing some good football but saw the visitors take the lead against the run of play. Their lead was short lived though as Chris Ogilvie quickly grabbed an equaliser. The Albion continued to control the play in the third but once again saw Dumbarton break away to score a second. The boys though continued to look for an equaliser but were unable to grab what would have been a deserved draw.

On Sunday the 14's entertain Elgin City with a 12.15pm kick off.

This saturday the 13's, 14's and 16's have their end of season day out. They will be enjoying a day paintballing at Livingston. The boys should note that they should report to Forthbank for 7.45 am for the bus.

Sunday 13th June

The only games this weekend have involved the under 13 side. On Friday evening the entertained Ayr United at Forthbank. Although they controlled most of the play they were unable to convert this possession in to goals. They paid the penalty when a defensive mix up gave Ayr the lead in the first period. In the second a loose pass allowed Ayr to add a second and in the final period good work on the right allowed Ayr to add a third from close range.

The boys though were not downhearted and today they had to travel to Recreation Park, Alloa to play a home match against Ross County due to Forthbank being unavailable. They got off to a great start when Cameron Smith put them ahead. A few minutes later though keeper Callum Christie was badly injured in a collision with the County forward which has resulted in him breaking his Collar Bone. Central defender Mark Smith took over in goal but he was rarely tested except when he saved a high shot late on in the match. This though did not affected the team and left back Aidan Stevenson scored his first ever goal for the club when he made a good run and finished it expertly. The second period saw the boys up the game and Ross Hughes, Cameron Smith with his second and Greg Hurst added further goals. The third period continued the same way and Ross Hughes added his second with a high shot from outside of the box. Connor McKenzie added another a few minutes later and Sean Brown grabbed the final goal with a well taken penalty.

The 13's are again in action on Tuesday evening as they travel to Paisley to play Dumbartondue the unavailability of pitches in the Dumbarton area.

Everybody wishes Callum well in his recovery from his break.

Also this week the under 14's are in action at home to Dumbarton on Thursday evening at Forthbank with a 7.30pm kick off. This game was scheduled to be played away, but oncve again unavailability has saw this game switched to Stirling.

Sunday 6th June

Only two games for the youths this weekend. The under 14's after two good performances turned in a poor and lacklustre performance against Partick Thistle at Forthbank. Although always having a chance in the game they made two costly errors which both turned into goals for the visitors. After a goal less first period the visitors took the lead in the second. Their second goal came towards the end of the third period direct from a corner kick. The boys now have a friendly against Falkirk on Wednesday evening on the astro at the University with a 7pm kick off.

In a trial match for the under 19's coaches Graeme Donald and David Binnie ran the rule over a good number of players against Aston Villa Boys Club with next season in mind.

Thursday 3rd June 2010

Two games this midweek for the Youth teams.

First of all the 13's travelled to play Livingston in a friendly on Wednesday evening and they came away with a comprehensive victory.

Tonight the 14's entertained QOS who made the long journey up from Dumfries for this evenings match. They started well and took the lead in 19 seconds when a defensive mix up in the Albion back line allowed them to score. As the period went on the young Binos began to dominate and they got a deserved equaliser when excellent play across the back saw Wallace Wilson play the ball forward to Craig Hepburn who drove forward and played in Darren Swords on the right to score. For the rest of the period and the second one the Albion dominated but could not get that second goal. They did though at the start of the third when good play on the left set up Chris Ogilvie who moved the ball square for Danny McLaren to score. The lead though was short lived and poor defending at the corner allowed the Queens number 7 to score with the head from six yards. Then another defensive error allowed the Queens to take the lead against the run of play. But the Young Binos were not to be denied at least a draw when Chris Ogilvie hit a stunning shot high into the net at the death.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT LOOKING FOR A

HEAD OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Stirling Albion FC requires expressions of interest for the post of Head of Youth Development.

Candidates must hold a current SFA Youth Licence Award (level 5) and would require to be successful in a Scotland Disclosure validation process.

The successful candidate would assume responsibility for the coaching programme for all youth players up to Under 19 level, developing the player pathway of those involved. Player recruitment would be considered as part of the remit.

In addition, the progression of a Coach Development / Education programme, leading to achievement in suitable qualifications levels for all coaching staff, would be required.

Sufficient support in the administration of the Youth Development programme would be provided.

The post would initially be a part time position but this may develop further in the future. Conditions and payment will be negotiable.

For further information and an expression of interest please contact:

stirlingalbion@btconnect.com or telephone 07989454991.

30th May 2010

It was a day of distance travelling for the three games involving the Albion Youth this weekend.

The under 13's made the journey down to Stranraer a profitable one by coming away with a comfortable victory over their hosts. Sean Brown grabbed a double with Liam Ure and trialist  Greg Hurst grabbing the other. Stranraer did manage to pull one back though. The 13's do have a game this weekend but play a friendly at Livingston on Wednesday.

The under 14's made their second long journey in consecutive weeks as they travelled to Ross County. After a disappointing performance the week before at Dumfries the boys put to rest some of the first teams heartache up their in the Cup by winning comprehensively. The got off to a sluggish start and went down early after failing to clear a corner. They did though as the period wore on take control and trialist Dylan Robb grabbed the equaliser with a fine left foot drive. They continued to dominate in the second period and Jordan Tapping headed excellently home from an Ogilvie corner to give the young Binos the lead. Ian McIntyre then headed another goal before Darren Swords scored with a fine shot from the edge of the box. The third period saw Connor Pearson score to extend their lead. Ross County though grabbed a second midway through the third period but the Albion were not to be denied another when trialist Paul McLaughlin's left foot shot found the corner from the edge of the box.

The 14's will entertain QOS on Thursday evening at Forthbank with a 7.30pm kick off. On Sunday they are also at home to Partick Thistle with a 12.15pm ko on the Forthbank astro.

The 16's though were at home to Ross County who made the long journey South. The 16's though were not able to repeat the results of their younger colleagues as they were defeated. County grabbed three goals with the Albion's only goal coming from a Steven Forbes header.

26th May 2010

On Sunday Chairman Peter McKenzie gave two youth teams the opportunity to play on Forthbank Stadium before the ground closes for summer repair work and both teams responded with each producing a splendid performance and convincing victory.

The under 16 team played their second last fixture of the current season against Queen of the South and netted five times against the Dumfries side who could not find a reply on the day.

Steven Forbes fired home a 25 yard shot to open the scoring after creating space for himself with some clever dribbling skills.

Shaun Johnston then linked well with striking partner Scott Jarvie who netted coolly from 8 yards to give Stirling a deserved 2 - 0 lead after twenty minutes.

Centre backs Jack Stickler and Ross McGeachie were solid at the back giving the team a platform to go forward in style. McGeachie notched a third into the second half when he reacted to a keeper's block to nod home from close in.

Alan McKerracher then made it 4 - 0 scoring neatly with his first touch having come on as a substitute.

Keeper Rhys McKenzie make an excellent save to keep a clean sheet and the last goal of the game came from a Queen's defender who deflected a cross ball into his own goal.

This was an excellent team performance and the players will be anxious to repeat this standard of play when they meet Ross County on Sunday in their last home game of the season. The game will be played at the Forthbank astro with a 12.15 ko.

The under 13's took the field after the 16's game as temperatures continued to rise. The performance that the youngsters produced against Elgin City matched the sunshine weather as the team again played some great stuff and won handsomely.

In the first period Sean Brown opened the scoring and then Connor McKenzie netted twice as Stirling dominated the play with their precise passing game. Keeper Calum Christie had little to do as his team mates ahead of him enjoyed their first occasion to play on Forthbank. In the next two periods Sean Brown added to his tally as did Sam Davidson, Liam Ure, and Cameron Smith who grabbed a hat trick

Next week the 13's travel to Stranraer for their game with every intention of maintaining their fine run of performances this season. Kick off is 1pm.

The 14's travelled to Dumfries for their game against Queen of the South. Unfortunately despite taking an early lead through a Jordan Tapping goal the team produced a disappointing display and eventually lost out 3 -1.

The team will have an early opportunity to try to put things right against their Dumfries opponents as they will meet again on Thursday 3rd June at Forthbank astro with a 7.30pm ko.

This Sunday sees the 14's travel away again, this time to Dingwall for their game against Ross County with a 2.15pm ko.

16th May 2010

The under 13's fine season continued yesterday afternoon as they entertained QOS on the Forthbank astro. In another fine performance Ross Hughes and Sean Brown grabbed the goals. QOS did grab a goal but failed to take anything from the game.

This afternoon the under 14's entertained Dundee Utd in a friendly match. The young Binos matched their Premier League counterparts throughout the game. The first period ended goalless but there was no shortage of excellent play from both sides.. The second period continued in the same vain and the visitors went ahead thanks to an excellent volley from United just inside the box. The visitors were to add a second late in the period when the initial shot hit the bar and Harper saved the point blank rebound but the ball again fell to a United player who made no mistake. The third period saw the Albion come back into the game and Ian McIntyre pressed a United defender in the box and took possession and squared the ball to Danny Hall who had the simple task to shoot home. The Ian McIntyre finished superbly to grab the equaliser. The Binos almost got a winner but Stephen Al-Sayed's shot just went wide and both teams then settled for the draw.

14th May 2010

The under 16 side tonight entertained the North Lanarkshire Development Squad in a friendly at Forthbank. The boys ran out comfortable 7-1 winners after going behind early on. Their goals came from John Bilsland, Steven Forbes, Jack Brisbane and a brace each from Shaun Johnston and Matthew Cooper. Next up for the team is a trip to Partick on Sunday.

13th May 2010

This evening the under 13's continued their excellent run which included a 4-2 win over St Johnstone last Sunday and a comprehensive victory over a Falkirk select at Falkirk Stadium on Monday evening by defeating Cowdenbeath at Forthbank. Sean Brown and Conor McKenzie grabbed the Stirling goals with Cowdenbeath grabbing a consolation. On Saturday afternoon they are in action again at Forthbank against QOS with a 1.30pm ko.

The 14's last Sunday saw a last minute equaliser for Alloa deny them victory at Recreation Park. The boys turned in one of their best performances of the season against a strong Alloa side only to be denied at the end. Ian McIntyre and Chris Ogilvie grabbed the goals. With no pro-youth fixture this weekend they will take on a Dundee Utd select at Forthbank, where the coaches will also be running the rule over a few trialists regarding next season. KO is 12.15.

26th April 2010, a full update of this weekends action

The under 19 Stirling Albion youth team were handed a bit of a lesson in finishing and simple pass and move play when they were taken apart by an excellent Livingston team on Sunday in the SFL Irn Bru League Cup. The heavy defeat ended Stirling’s involvement in the cup and highlighted the quality of the West Lothian team who were able to field ten full time youth players.

On Tuesday night as the first team try to capture the Title the u 19’s will play against Dundee at Forthbank astro in their last league fixture. This game will mark the end of involvement for some players who have served Stirling Albion very well over some years. Hopefully manager Allan Moore will offer the opportunity to a few players to be involved in pre season training. To the others the club would offer them their thanks and best wishes for the future. Team coaches Dave Binnie and Graham Donald will do all they can to secure the players an opportunity to continue to play at a suitably high level.

The under 13 team continued in good form on Saturday with a game against Falkirk in a friendly match played in Grangemouth. A 7 – 1 win for the young binos emphasised the progress the team has made.

Next game on the cards is tough away fixture to Queens Park which may take place on Friday night this week.

The u 14 team showed better desire in a spirited performance away to Arbroath on Sunday. The game was played at Gayfield so gave the boys a chance to play on a senior pitch and the Stirling players took full advantage of this to record a 5 – 2 win.

Goalscorers were Wallace Wilson and Ian McIntyre before Arbroath scored. Craig Hepburn and Grant Smith who scored his first ever goal for the club put the youngsters three up, Ian McIntyre added his second before Arbroath scored a consolation late goal.

Coaches Ogilvie and Hepburn will be looking for a bit of consistency in form when the team meet Ayr United on Sunday at 12.15 on the Forthbank astro.

The under 16 team also bounced back from a couple of poor results with a 3 -2 home win against Arbroath on Sunday.

Stirling played some of their best football this season and deserved to go ahead when Lewis Walsh scored with a cool finish following a good run. Shaun Johnston struck a post with Stirling well on top but they allowed Arbroath to equalise before half time from a headed goal at a corner.

In the second half Walsh again scored and Steven Forbes also netted while Arbroath replied with one goal.

Next fixture for the 16’s is a game against Ayr United on Friday 30th April away at Maybole with a 7.30ko.

The Youth Finance committee would like to thank those who attended and those who supported the Race Night last Friday night. A good profit is anticipated from a good night enjoyed by those who attended. Diageo European Technical Centre was the main event sponsor but thanks go to the following who sponsored a race. Absolute Roofing Ltd, Mailbox, Stirling Electrical Services, Beechwood Albion, buystirlingalbion.org.uk, Jim Thomson, The Albion Bar, GSL Sports, Vandanel and Peter McKenzie. Thanks also to those who purchased a horse in advance of the night.

25th April 2010

The under 14's today laid to rest their poor performance last week as they turned in an excellent performance at Arbroath. As they took to the field at a calm and sunny Gayfield they were out of the traps quickly and after three minutes a Chris Ogilvie corner was cleared as far as Wallace Wilson who returned the ball wide to Ogilvie and then proceeded to get on to the end of his cross to control the ball and hook it home. It got better a few minutes later when another Ogilvie corner was headed on and Ian McIntyre scored with a header. The boys contniued to dominate the remainder of the first period. The second they started poorly and slack marking allowed Arbroath to score. The home side then dominated the next 20 minutes but failed to get back on to level terms and the young Binos began to take back control. The third period the Albion continued to dominate and grabbed another two quick goals, Craig Hepburn burst through the home defence to shoot home, Grant Smith then scored his first goal for the club when he got on the end of a McIntyre cross he steadied himself and drilled home a left foot shot. Ian McIntyre then got his second when Connor Pearson headed an Ogilvie corner goalwards and Ian back headed the ball up and over the keeper. At the end Arbroath pulled a goal back on the final whistle when Harper mis-judged a cross and the Red Litchies forward scored. Coaches Tom Ogilvie and Kevin Hepburn were delighted with the performance as the team had taken in what they had worked on during the week in training and turned in an excellent team performance.

18th April 2010

Pride of place from the week end youth fixtures goes to the players in the Stirling Albion under 13 squad who performed so well in their game at Broadwood on Sunday against a strong Clyde team. This was the third meeting between these two teams this season with Clyde winning the first match last September. The second game at Forthbank was a thrilling 5 - 5 draw and at the week end Stirling completed a great results turn around with a great 3 - 0 victory against one of the strongest youth initiative teams in the age group.

Stirling were very much up for the game and scored after only a few minutes. The Clyde keeper mis-kicked his goal kick and when the ball landed at the feet of Sam Davidson his precise pass put Sean Brown in the clear. The Stirling striker took his chance with a cool finish.

In the second period Stirling held strong with good performances from all the defenders with captain Mark Smith leading by example.

It was not all about defending well, however, as Stirling made a number of chances. Their efforts were rewarded at the start of the third period when Sam Davidson netted smartly from close in after a good move on the left wing.

The scoring was concluded with a great finish from Ross Hughes who's pace took him to beat the keeper to the ball from Liam Ure's through ball.

This was a real examination of the young Stirling players' qualities and every one rose to meet the challenge in great style for a well earned win.

Next week the team are at home to Cowdenbeath at home but the arrangements have not been finalised because both coaches, Peter Digan and Davy Adams are attending a coaching course.

The under 14 team produced another lacklustre performance on Sunday and slid to a 4 - 0 defeat at home to Clyde. The team is suffering a lack of self belief at present with any moments of slackness being punished by their opponents. Coaches Tom Ogilvie and Kevin Hepburn will continue to work hard to get the team back on the rails.

Their next fixture is away at Arbroath with a 1pm kick off.

The under 16 side also played against Clyde at the week end but they too lost 4 - 0 in a game played on Friday night. Stirling played well for the most part in the game but were guilty of mistakes in vital areas. There were very good performances from a number of players, Mark Sharp and Stephen Day in particular but the errors made in dangerous positions are costing the team dearly.

The next fixture for the 16's is away at Arbroath on Sunday.

The 19's bounced back with a win in their SFL Irn Bru League Cup section when they defeated East Stirling at Stirling University on Sunday. Beaten by Alloa last week end , Stirling made the worst possible start and found themselves two nil down after only five minutes.

A poorly defended cross ball led to a goal against in the opening minute then youngster Ross McGeachie, making his under 19 debut, conceded a penalty kick, converted to put Stirling two behind.

Ross McGeachie showed great powers of recovery when he went on to play the remainder of the game in excellent fashion. The team also responded. Ryan Nimmo nodded home to give Stirling hope and then Andy Hunter headed home a deserved equaliser. Hunter will be involved with the Scottish Schools' international side who play England on Friday night. The game being played in Carlisle is televised live on Sky Sports 1and Hunter's goal will hopefully set up the young Stirling player for the game. Hunter joins a list of recent Stirling Albion youth players who have appeared in the fixture against the 'Auld Enemy'.

Stirling continued to dominate their opponents after a shaky start and striker Johnny Chalk scored to put them ahead. Liam Corr, playing as an overage player, netted from close in from a Flood cut back to ease Stirling into a two goal lead. This goal proved crucial as, with ten minutes to play, some slack defending allowed the Shire in to score their third goal.

Stirling held on to win the match and set up a decisive game against Livingston FC in the third and final section game. This fixture is scheduled for Sunday on the field turf at Livingston when only a massive effort from all the players will do against the very strong West Lothian side.

11th April 2010

It was a beautiful Sunday for football but unfortunately not one of the Stirling Albion Youth teams could match the weather with a match winning performance.

The u 13 team travelled to play Dumbarton FC and struggled to cope with the facility provided for the game. A bumpy, tight grass pitch was not helpful to the development of good football and the Stirling youngsters failed to cope and went down to a 5 - 1 defeat. Next week they face Clyde FC away with Broadwood astro the likely venue.

The u 14 team also travelled to play on a grass surface against Cowdenbeath. Connor Pearson opened the scoring for Stirling and trialist, Callum Robertson scored to make it 2 - 1 in the final period. Cowdenbeath finished strongly and as Stirling lost their concentration the Fife team scored two late goals to win 4 - 2.

Stirling play Clyde next Sunday with a 12.15pm ko at Forthbank Astro.

The u 16 team played in a tight encounter against Cowdenbeath at Forthbank but they too lost out to the only goal of the game scored just before half time. Stirling dominated most of the possession but could not find the net.

The 16's line up next week against Clyde FC in an away fixture.

The u 19 team began their SFL Irn Bru Youth League Cup campaign against local rivals, Alloa, but were hit with a massive number of injuries prior to the game. With seven players out through illness and injury, five of the u 16 team had to be included on the bench for this fixture.

Stirling played well and at half time the 0 -0 scoreline suggested that the reduced squad would come out ok in the fixture. However, Stirling never got going at all in the second half and they slipped to a disappointing 2 -0 defeat.

The next fixture in the Youth Cup is away to East Stirling at Stirling Uni next Sunday with a 1.00pm ko

YOUTH TEAM FAMILY RACE NIGHT

The fund raising efforts of the Youth Development team continue on Friday23rd April at Smith's Restaurant, Millhall when their Annual Race Night takes place.

Tickets £15.00 per family (2 plus 2) are still availabe for what is a great fun night. Horses and jockey spots can be purchased for only £10.00 and £5.00 respectively. There is a raffle and a Football Draw also on the night. Ticket price includes an excellent buffet.

Tickets can be purchased from either

Ian Henderson on 07774948678

Or by e-mail

Graham Hamilton forthbanknews@tiscali.co.uk

4th April 2010

The Easter week - end meant that there were no scheduled fixtures for the Stirling Albion youth teams but two squads were in action in friendly games.

The Under 13 team were asked to provide opposition to a touring team from the USA who were based at Stirling University. The team from the Maryland Olympic Preparation Programme set themselves a gruelling schedule on their trip to Scotland and met Stirling Albion at the end of a five game schedule.

Stirling proved too strong and too good for their tiring US opponents and ran out 7 - winners in a good match played in good spirits. Sean Brown certainly scored three goals and claimed a fourth which was perhaps an og, Connor McKenzie notched two and Sam Davidson also scored.

Next fixture for the continually improving young Binos is away to Dumbarton on Sunday.

The u 16 team were scheduled to play a friendly against Oldham FC but the English club mysteriously failed to confirm the agreed fixture last week. As an alternative the team played Milton Star, a team from Hamilton area.

Stirling beat there opponents 2 - 0 and conducted themselves very well in a game where the opposition player's discipline let them down. Sean Johnston and Craig Gardner were the scorers for Stirling. The 16's get back to SFA Youth Initiative fixtures on Sunday when they play Cowdenbeath at Forthbank with a 12.15ko

The u 14 team also play Cowdenbeath this week end with their fixture being an away game in Rosyth with a 2.00pm ko.

The under 19 team have been drawn in a Youth League Cup section with East Stirling, Alloa and a strong Livingston team. The first game will be a home game on Sunday at Forthbank with a 2.15 pm ko against Alloa. All the fixtures for the League Cup are in the fixture section.

28th March 2010

The under 14’s turned in their performance of the season against a very good Queens Park side at Forthbank today.

The boys who have failed to beat and even score against the Spiders in their previous games in which they have had a couple of heavy defeats went out and played their hearts out to gain a well deserved win.

The youngsters went with a 4 -1- 4 -1 formation. It was the Spiders though who started better but failed to make any headway against a solid Albion defence well marshalled by Pearson and Al Sayed. The home team worked their way into the match and with five minutes remaining in the first period Ian McIntyre broke down the right and his near post cross was met by Craig Hepburn whose control took him past the defender and shot into the far corner. The second period was fairly even and chances were few and far between.

The third and final period could not have got off to a better start when the Binos were awarded a free kick 25 yards out. Chris Ogilvie saw his fine effort fly over the keeper and into the top left hand corner. It was to get even better when good work by Hepburn released Ian McIntyre who steadied himself and sent his shot high into the net.

Queens tried to get back into the match and they saw a long range shot hit the post but they rarely tested Harper in the home goal. With a number of players carrying knocks the home youngsters saw out the remaining time to record a great victory.

Coaches Tom Ogilvie and Kevin Hepburn were delighted with the teams performance and felt it was an outstanding effort throughout the team with everybody contributing to the success.

24th March 2010

It was another busy weekend for the Stirling Albion Youth teams with three of the four sides in action up and down the country.

The under 13 side made the journey down to Dumfries to face Queen of the South. The youngest of the teams once again showed again that they are having a great season when Connor McKenzie popped up to put the visitors ahead. The home side though rallied and pulled a goal back. Bu the young Binos were not to be disappointed when Cameron Smith restored their lead before adding his second and his sides third goal to end the afternoons scoring.

On Tuesday evening the 13’s entertained Dumbarton in a re-arranged fixture on the Forthbank astroturf. Coach Davy Adams was confident on his sides ability to win the game and his young protégé’s did not disappoint. Sunday’s goal scorers were once again on the score sheet with Connor McKenzie opening the scoring and Cameron Smith once again grabbed a brace. The fourth came from a trialist. The Sons had to do with a consolation goal on the night.

On Sunday the boys once again have a long away day when they travel to take on Ross County with a 12.30 kick-off in Dingwall.

The under 14’s side also made one of the longest journey’s of the season to play Elgin City in Lossiemouth. In a game that coaches felt they should have won they had to come away with a draw on what was a very bumpy pitch.

The home side drew first blood early on when they scored with a far post header. The young Stirling side though hit back and Connor Pearson side footed home a Chris Ogilvie corner. Then Callum Robertson broke away to put the Binos ahead. However the home side got back level terms quickly when their left sided player hit an excellent 20 yard shot high into the net. In almost identical move to the second goal Ian McIntyre broke free once again put the Albion front at the end of the first period. The second period was one to forget as a poor performance let Elgin grab two goals to take the lead.  The players reacted well to a frank team talk and controlled the third period and substitute Thomas Lowe slid in to score an equaliser and then popped up again unmarked to side foot a volley home from a right wing cross from Wallace Wilson. It was not to be though as at the death an Elgin shot from the edge of the box took a slight deflection which was enough to beat Harper in goal for an equaliser. Lowe could almost have had got his third straight away but a last minute tackle by the defender meant the game ended in a draw.

The 14’s have a tough match as they entertain Queens Park this Sunday at Forthbank with a 12.15 kick off.

The 16’s did not have a game last weekend but on Friday evening travel to Lesser Hampden to take on Queens Park .

The 19’s last Sunday ended a barren run of results for them when they entertained Montrose on the Forthbank Astro. Nimmo gave the home side the lead but it looked like their defending was going to let them down again when the visitor scored twice to take the lead. Their confidence though was not affected and Josh Flood got them back on level terms before a Gregg Munn goal gave the 19’s a much needed victory.

The 19’s do not have a game this weekend but play Dumbarton on Tuesday evening.   

14th March 2010

All four youth teams were in action again on the weekend of 12th - 14th March.

The 14's kicked off on Friday night with a game against a strong Dumbarton side who have only suffered one loss this season. Stirling were missing a couple of key players and were further hampered when centre back Jordan Tapping suffered a severe ankle sprain in the second period of the game. Stirling had competed well for most of the first period but the pace of the Dumbarton forwards was always likely to cause them problems. Although they never gave up the fight, when Dumbarton scored first it was always looking like a defeat and the Sons went on to a convincing  6 - 0 win.

The 14's travel to play Elgin on Sunday 21st March

The 16's travelled to play St Johnstone on Sunday and went down 4 - 0. Again the game was closer than the scoreline suggests but the team are currently struggling to score goals and stood off their dangerous opponents a bit too far. The 16's have no scheduled fixture for the coming week end.

The 13's notched another win  in a good season when they defeated Stranraer on Sunday at Forthbank. Stranraer kept most of its players behind the ball and were difficult to break down. Mark Scott scored with an 18 yard shot in the first period. Liam Ure added a second when he came on as a second period sub and the same player notched his second and Stirling's third goal in the third period. Sean Brown made the final score  4 - 0  late in the game.

The 13's travel away to play Queen of the South on Sunday 21st March.

It has been a difficult few weeks for the 19's team but perhaps they saw the start of a recovery with a hard fought 0 - 0 result against Annan  Athletic on Sunday. The clean sheet for the defence was welcome progress but a lack of confidence in front of goal is still a problem.

Sunday 21st March sees them play at home to Montrose at Forthbank astroturf with a 12.15 kick off planned.

7th March 2010

The u 13 side made the long journey north to Lossiemouth to play their SFA Youth Development Initiative fixture against Elgin City and learned an important lesson in football.

The condition and dimensions of the pitch were disappointing and did not suit the style of football which Stirling attempted to play. The young Binos passing game did not suit the conditions and they lost out to a 2 -1 scoreline with the more direct style of play from Elgin winning on the day.

Sam Davidson scored late in the game to keep up his good scoring run.

The team look forward to this week's fixture at home to Stranraer on the Forthbank astro at 12.15.

The under 14 side travelled to Petershil Juniors excellent AstroTurf facility to take on Partick Thistle. In a competitive and sometimes physical encounter the team put on a good display to draw 1-1.Connor Pearson netted a well hit free kick for Stirling's goal.

The 14's will play Dumbarton FC on Friday 12th March on the astro at Forthbank with a 7.15pm ko.

The 16's team had a great opportunity to record a win on Sunday when they, too, took on a Partick Thistle side. The Stirling team scored with a Matthew Cooper penalty after a Partick defender armed the ball clear but the team failed to push home their advantage and lost a second half equaliser in what was a disappointing performance.

A big improvement from all players in the squad is required. Next week sees them visit St Johnstone, undoubtedly one of the stronger squads in the YI set up.

The u 19 team again delivered a poor performance in the SFL Youth League fixture against Cowdenbeath. The Fifers gave up home advantage for this fixture but would be delighted with the result - a convincing 6 - 0 victory over a Stirling team who have little confidence in themselves this season.

Once again, despite a decent start, Stirling conceded a soft goal and then the team unacceptably crumbled. As has happened before they gifted their opponents the softest of goals with naive defending.

The team will look to improve with a home game against Annan Athletic on Sunday at Forthbank with a 2.15pm ko and the players realise that only really hard work and application will pull them out of a poor spell of  form.

21st February 2010

Last week end (Frid 19th - Sunday 21st) showed exactly the highs and lows of youth football for those interested in the fortunes of Stirling Albion FC.

On Friday , Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor received an email complimenting the Stirling Albion u 13 and u 14 players for their contribution to a successful coach education event the week end before at Stirling University. As candidates prepared to sit their SFA Level 4 Youth coaching award the young Stirling players were invaluable as the runners for practices and drills. Their behaviour, skill and application were complimented by all concerned.

On Friday night those present at the Under 19 SFL Youth Division game at Forthbank against Ayr United saw what was probably the worst display for many a year by a young binos team. Out fought and out run by their opponents the Stirling players let themselves down with a performance that was simply not acceptable. Defeated 8 - 1the players were encouraged to think hard about the attitude that most of them displayed in a performance that simply must not be repeated.

Next week they travel to Dundee for a league game and a better performance is expected.

Sunday's fixtures, however, did bring a smile back to the faces of those who endured the disappointment of Friday night.

The under 14 team took on a young under 13 team from Dundee United and played some good football in their 3 - 0 win in a friendly match. The only goal of the first period was scored by Darren Sword. A goalless second period saw the visitors take control but Stirling held out with keeper Liam Harper giving a confident performance. In the third period striker Ian McIntyre netted twice to give Stirling a boost in their confidence prior to the second half of the SFA youth development fixtures starting in early March. On Thursday night this week they take on a Forth Valley development squad before the new season starts with an away game at Partick Thistle on the 7th March.

The 13's team bounced back from their recent defeat to Rangers in a re arranged game against Cowdenbeath. Stirling scored first in the opening period when Cameron Smith was first to a parried save from the visiting keeper. Stirling keeper Callum Christie was beaten by a high lob which he felt he could have saved to bring the Fifer's level before the interval.

Christie did show his strength of character with a number of good saves later in the game and Stirling as a team showed some resolve when they took charge of the game in the second period. Smith notched a second goal to put Stirling ahead and despite an attempted goal line clearance, Connor MacKenzie's effort was judged by the referee to have crossed the line to put the home team 3 - 1 ahead. Before time up Stirling added two more goals with Cameron Smith notching a well earned hat trick before Sam Davidson made space for himself in a crowded box before sliding home his 12 yard shot.

This performance was full of promise as the team , encouraged to keep the ball moving, certainly put on a good show in which two trialist players showed some potential.

They next travel to Ayr for a final friendly match before their second half of the season fixtures start with an away game to Elgin City on March 7th.

For the third year in a row,  a Stirling Albion FC youth player has earned International Schoolboy selection. Andrew Hunter, who lives in Callander, has been a Stirling player for 4 seasons and he was delighted to hear of his selection to the SSFA squad. Hunter played in the Invitation International against Australia on Monday 1st February at the indoor pitch at Toryglen near Hampden and helped the team to a 3 - 2 win with a part in the move that brought Scotland's third goal. He, like the others in the squad, now look forward to their Centenary Shield campaign which features on Sky TV. Scotland kick off against Northern Ireland at Forfar on March 5th and will then play Wales at Airdrie and the Republic of Ireland away before facing England at Carlisle in the live televised game.

Andrew Hunter joins those Stirling players who have won caps in recent years including Gregg Munn, Michael Macadam, Don Morrison, Magnus Neilson and of course Liam Corr who captained the Scotland schoolboy team. Congratulations and best wishes go to him from all at the club.

14th February 2010

All four Stirling Albion youth teams were in action over the weekend as the second half of the season gets well underway.

The 19's followed up their good win of last week, when they got some kind of revenge over Ross County with a 3 - 1 win at Forthbank against their opponents from the North.

This weekend it was Stirling who had the long journey, this time to Elgin where they met City. It was important that the team took a boost from their win and the boys responded with a good, strong performance. The team delivered and by all accounts should have won by a wider margin with an impressive performance.

Andy Pender opened the scoring and Andy Hunter, the latest Stirling Albion youth player to gain international schoolboy recognition, added a second. In the second half Elgin got one back before Danny Ashe netted to secure the win.

Stirling could have scored more but they will nevertheless take some confidence into their next game which is against Ayr United at Forthbank astro on Friday 19th February with a 7.45 ko.

The under 13's who drew with Motherwell last week were brought back down to earth when they tackled a young Rangers team at Forthbank on Saturday. Stirling played some good football but it was some ruthless finishing which saw the young Gers win 6 - 0.

The 13's were also active on Sunday when they acted as runners for an SFA Coach education course being held at Stirling University.

Next week end will see a re-arranged fixture against Cowdenbeath take place at Forthbank astro with a 2.15ko.

The 14's had no fixture this week end but also assisted at the SFA course by providing willing runners on Sunday morning.

They will play a friendly game on Sunday against a young Dundee United team at Forthbank with a 12.15 ko.

The u 16 team met St Johnstone FC on Sunday and just lost out to a very slick Perth outfit when they lost 3 - 2 at Forthbank. Scott Jarvie netted for Stirling after only 7 minutes but Stirling could not hold on to their lead for any length. Saints equalised moments later and just into the second half they scored to go 2 -1 up. Stirling responded with some fight and Declan Winters equalised after a Stephen Day header from a corner.

Once agian however there was hesitation in Saints first attack and when keeper McKenzie collided with the Perth forward a penalty kick decision was obvious. Saints netted to go 3 -2 up and despite a few close things for Stirling as they tried to find an equaliser the game finished with no more scoring. the 16's have no scheduled fixture this weekend.

10th February 2010

For the first time in a long while all four Albion youth teams were in action last weekend.

The under 13’s continued their good form, after defeating Dundee Utd the previous week they entertained another SPL side in Motherwell. A good performance saw them take a two goal lead through Cameron Smith and Adam Blair before the visitors pulled the two goals back for a draw.

The 14’s traveled to SFA performance side Dunfermline on Saturday morning but they went down by three goals to nil.

The under 16's lost 3- 0 to Ross County. After a poor first half they played better in the second half and should have equalised County’s first half goal. A further two late goals by County gave them victory in a match that was not a true reflection on the game.

The 19's turned in their best performance of the season and took revenge on Ross County who beat them 3-1 earlier in the season. They initially went 1 -0 down but equalised quickly after words when a Josh Flood shot beat keeper, hit the post then keeper's back to go in. Ryan Nimmo scored from 15 yards following an uncleared corner to lead 2-1 at half time. 15 minutes into the 2nd half a great pass from McAdam saw a great finish from Gary Currie to seal the win.

This weekend the 19's are away to Elgin, the 16's are at home to St Johnstone and the 13's and 14's are helping as SFA Course runners.

The programme run a family quiz night as a social evening for the players, their parents friends and family on last Friday evening at the Birds and the Bees in Stirling as a thank you to them all for their endeavors so far this season. An enjoyable night was had by all and a team with the name a Bunch of Bairns won the prize on the night. We would like to thank all those who attended and the Birds and Bees for an enjoyable evening and a great buffet.

7th February 2010

The fixtures for the remaining part of the season for the SFA Youth Initiative teams at under 13, 14 & 16 level have been announced. Check under their age group above for details.

31st January 2010

Stirling Albion's two youngest sides got in a couple of friendlies this weekend while the under 19's league match at Cowdenbeath was postponed.

On Friday evening the under 14's entertained local rivals Falkirk's under 13 side. The boys started positively enough and took the game to their opponents but failed to take the chances that came their way and they were punished when a defensive error saw the visitors brake to take the lead midway through the period. Things got worse in the second period when further lapses saw the visitors score two more in the first 20 minutes of the period. Credit must be given to the team as they then took control and Ian McIntyre scored with a header and right on the whistle at the end of the period Craig Hepburn got a second.

The young Binos dominated the third period and Chris Ogilvie had a goal chopped off and the team passed up numerous chances. With five minutes remaining Ian McIntyre broke away to equalisewith a low shot into the corner. A couple of minutes later Craig Hepburn got the winner with his shot from the edge of the box finding the net.

The 13's entertained a mixed age group from Dundee United on Sunday. The boys showed their period of time without a match had not affected them as they raced into a three goal lead by the end of the second period. The third saw them add another three before the visitors pulled a goal back late on. Only disappointment was that neither Cameron Smith and Liam Ure were unable to claim hat-tricks.

7th December 2009

STIRLING ALBION F.C. YOUTH DEVELPOMENT PROGRAMME. EVENTS UPDATE – CHRISTMAS 2009.

A number of events are due to happen soon, around the Xmas shut down, but firstly we would like to thank everyone – players and parents – for their efforts so far this season.

On Fund Raising we have had two very successful events. The Speakers’ Night was a great success as was the Sponsored Walk. The prizewinners from each of the participating squads will be announced prior to Xmas with a suitable ‘well done’ prize to the player in each squad who collected most sponsorship money.

On THURSDAY 24th DECEMBER – yes Xmas Eve! – we have another great Fundraising opportunity. SAINSBURY’S STORE in Stirling has given us the prime time opportunity for our annual BAG PACKING DAY. In the past we have succeeded in raising over £1k from that activity but on XMAS EVE we have the chance to maybe treble that amount. IT WILL REQUIRE ALL THE PLAYERS TO CONTRIBUTE THEIR TIME ON THAT DAY as we have to try to man the tills from 10.00am until 6.00pm. A rota system will be used and the day will be split into three with each squad responsible for approximately a three hour stint. Adult supervision is also needed so if parents can find some time to volunteer we would be most grateful. Parents please make your availability known to us. A rota will be organised and made available in the next few days. NO EXCUSES unless out of the country!!

The 13’s and 14’s squad will visit Hampden to the Museum and Stadium Trip on SUNDAY 20th December as their Xmas treat and arrangements are in place. A visit to McDonald’s will follow and the club will contribute £2.00 per player to food costs.

The 16’s squad will go Bowling on THURSDAY 17th December in Stirling as we say thanks to everyone for their efforts so far.

After Xmas, in January, the 13’s and 14’s will visit the Scottish Parliament Buildings at Holyrood and the organisation for this is currently underway.

Each team will also have their mid season player assessment Parent’s Night either before or just after the New Year. Individual nights will be advised by the team coaches.

We will maintain a training and playing programme during the official shut down period – again details of this will be made available by each team’s coaching personnel.

Finally – a last date for your diary – FRIDAY 5th FEBRUARY will see our first attempt at a FAMILY QUIZ NIGHT to be held in the BIRDS and the BEES Restaurant, Causewayhead, Stirling. More details to follow.

Happy Christmas

6th December 2009

The Under 19 team kicked off the week end of games with a League match against Clyde at Forthbank astro on Friday night. Unfortunately it was another disappointing night as the team lost out again this time to two late goals from their opponents.

Stirling were never out of this game as two well matched teams struggled for some consistent form. However, Stirling were unable to create many scoring chances and eventually were out battled by Clyde who scored two late goals for a 2 - 0 win. Only a couple of players earned pass marks in a disappointing show.

The team will attempt to bounce back with two games before the Xmas break. On Friday 11th they head to Meadowbank Stadium, Edinburgh to take on Edinburgh City in a friendly and on Sunday they are due to travel to Annan Athletic for their final Irn Bru Youth League fixture of 2009.

The under 16's were left with no game at the week end. Opponents Ross County were unhappy about a 3.00pm kick off as players would not be home until late at night. Stirling could not accommodate an earlier kick off on the astro at Forthbank so organised instead a game against the Scottish Cerebral Palsey squad who were training at Forthbank. Unfortunately this fixture did not go ahead either.

The 16's travel to meet a Lanarkshire Development Squad select at Bent Park, Hamilton on Friday night.

The players will have their club Xmas treat on Thursday 17th December when they will go Bowling at AMF in Stirling.

The under 13 team suffered a 5 - 2 defeat at home to St Johnstone on the first occasion the teams met earlier this season at Forthbank. It was a measure of how well the team is developing when everyone involved was disappointed with their performance on Sunday at McDiarmid Park. Although the team earned a 5 - 5 draw there was disappointment at what was their poorest performance for some weeks. Cameron Smith scored twice as did Connor McKenzie. Liam Ure also scored in the drawn match.

On Friday the 13's will play a Lanarkshire Development Squad at Forthbank Astro at 7.15pm.

The 13's and 14's will enjoy their Xmas treat courtesy of the club when they make a visit to the National Stadium at Hampden for a Stadium Tour and Museum trip on Sunday 20th December.

The 14's team had the chance to sample playing on the Forthbank Stadium pitch when chairman, Peter McKenzie allowed their game against Ross County to go ahead on the home pitch on Sunday.

Unfortunately the team performed poorly against the team from the north and lost two goals in the third period, having led by a goal from Ian McIntyre.

The 14's meet Dunfermline in a friendly on Sunday at 12.15 on the Forthbank astro and will also play a Lanarkshire Development squad next Friday at Forthbank astro in their last game of 2009.

The last involvement for the players before Xmas will be their Fund Raising effort on Thursday 24th December at a Bag Packing Day at Sainsbury's Store in Stirling. The club are grateful to Sainsbury's for this fantastic fund raising opportunity.

29th November 2009

The last weekend of November proved a hectic one for two of the four youth teams at Stirling Albion.

As expected the 14's team missed out on a game away to Queen of the South due to the flooding of all pitches in the Dumfries area. The team will be keen for action on Sunday when they are due to meet Ross County in a fixture at Forthbank astro with a 3.15pm KO likely.

The 19's side, after a good win over Airdrie were hoping to build on this against Alloa last Sunday at Recreation Park. However, once again the team gave themselves a mountain to climb losing a goal just before half time and then 15 minutes into the second half. The first goal was poorly defended, the Alloa forward nodding in unopposed at the back post. The second was a well struck free kick after a rash tackle conceded the kick at the edge of the box.

Stirling played well in trying to get back into the game but the finishing was not sharp enough with a goal only coming with the last kick of the ball from trialist Rohan Hamilton.

Stirling meet Clyde in their next Irn Bru Youth Division game with the game scheduled for Friday 3rd December at Forthbank astro with a 7.15pm KO.

The busiest teams were the 13's and the 16's who both played a friendly game on Friday and an SFA Initiative game on Sunday.

The 13's took on Performance tier club, Dunfermline on Friday night in an excellent match played at Forthbank. Stirling certainly compared very well to their higher tier opposition and led at one point through a goal from Mark Connell. Stirling played with style and determination and it was only shots hit outwith the range of young keeper Calum Christie that earned Dunfermline a narrow win. Calum Christie, younger brother of first team keeper, Scott, has all the makings of a great keeper but is still on the small side at the moment. Dunfermline recognised this and deliberately played in high shots which even the older Scott Christie would have struggled to reach.

The performance that the team gave meant that they went in to their game on Sunday against Queen's Park in confident mood. Once again Sean Brown was on the score sheet as Stirling took the lead with the wind at their backs in the first period. The home team then held out well in the second period which was goalless.

Queens who had beaten Stirling comfortably in the first meeting this season showed great desire and hit back in the third period to lead 3 - 1. When Cameron Smith headed in neatly with just under 10 minutes to go Stirling looked as if they might just earn the draw they deserved but it was not to be as the visitors held on to their narrow lead.

So Stirling suffered two narrow defeats over the weekend but all the players can be pleased with their recent progress and with the way that they are trying to play football. At times it is a delight to see such great play and effort. Next week is another tough fixture in prospect when the team travel to Perth for a game against St Johnstone.

The 16's were asked to provide opposition for premier side Dundee United and met them on Friday night at the Raploch Centre. In a well contested match United went two goals up just after the start of the second half. The Binos battled back however and deservedly scored when Stephen Day's low corner was forced past the keeper with the help of Scott Jarvie. The game finished 2 - 1 but a well worthwhile exercise for both sides was recognised at time up.

On Sunday the 16's met Queen of the South at the Forthbank astro. The home team always looked a bit better than their opponents but lost a goal after 15 minutes when confusion and a lack of communication allowed the Queen's striker to shoot home. 

Stirling responded well and equalised with a cracking goal from mid fielder Steven Forbes. The youngster cut inside beating two opponents and then unleashing an unsavable shot past the visiting keeper. Moments later a good move saw forward Craig Duncan notch his third goal in three games when he was on hand to round off good build up play.

There was no lack of effort from both teams in the second period but there were no further goals in a close game.

The 16's may meet Ross County this weekend at home. There is no availability on Forthbank astro so club chairman, Peter McKenzie is considering allowing the youngsters to play the game on the Main Stadium pitch. With there now being no game at home on Saturday the youngsters are hopeful of getting a chance to play on the 'real' Forthbank on Sunday.

After hard fundraising efforts of the Finance Committee and the players themselves, a number of new kit items will arrive soon for the players. Rain Jackets and tracksuits are on the way as the club attempts to provide the players with the support necessary to progress their development. In addition a Christmas treat has been organised for each of the four teams. The 13's and 14's will have a day at the Football Museum at Hampden with a trip around the Stadium as part of the day's outing on Sunday 20th December

22nd November 2009

IT'S GOOD NEWS WEEK.

There was very positive news for the Youth Development programme at the club this week on a number of counts and a number of excellent team performances in the week end fixtures as well.

The 13's side continues to show great development as they took on a strong Cowdenbeath team on Friday night. The Fife side have recorded a number of notable results this season and came to Forthbank on Friday for a re-arranged game in confident mood. Stirling, however, were determined to build on their performance last week against Clyde and were well up for the game which was switched to Stirling due to the extremely wet weather.

In a tightly contested first period the young Binos scored first with Sam Davidson again adding his name to the score sheet. Cowdenbeath came back to equalise before the end of the period.

Sean Brown was next on the mark for Stirling as he too continued a good goal scoring run. Once more the Blue Brazil showed their character by equalising by the end of the period.

In the third period Stirling hit their opponents with a burst of goal scoring that they could not match. Cameron Smith netted a double and Mark Connell also scored as the home team hit three in as many minutes to secure their well earned win.

This week the team, have two matches lined up with difficult opposition in both. Last night at Forthbank they played performance club Dunfermline FC. Tomorrow the team is at home again against top side Queen's Park with a 12.15 ko likely at Forthbank. 

The 14's were up against a strong Alloa side on Sunday and for much of the game more than matched their strong opponents. Gregg Skinner headed home an excellent Chris Ogilvie free kick to give Stirling the first goal of the game. Connor Pearson then made it two with an excellent finish from a great Wallace Wilson through ball. Alloa came back to grab a late goal at the end of the period when Stirling made a poor job of a free kick to them deep in their own half.

Connor Pearson got the finest of glances to an Ogilvie free kick to restore a two goal lead for the home team. Alloa hit back when Stirling failed to clear their lines and 3-2 was how the second period finished.

It was Alloa who finished much the stronger team. They equalised and then went on to score three more unanswered goals in the final period to finish comfortable winners.

Stirling's opponents tomorrow are Queen of the South away but it already looks unlikely that the game will go ahead as all the pitches in Dumfries are currently underwater and more rain is forecast.

The u 16 team visited Alloa on Sunday and earned, at long last, a victory following a good performance instead of just a pat on the back for their efforts.

A good first half performance when they largely dominated their opponents failed to produce a goal but the players responded in the second period to the coaches' encouragement. Craig Duncan opened the scoring and Ross McGeachie quickly added a second as the Binos turned to play up the slope at Recreation Park. Alloa responded to get a goal back before John Bilsland's back post lob was headed over the line by Craig Duncan. Alloa again came back with a second goal and pressed for an equaliser. John Bilsland then capped an excellent return to the side after a long injury absence when he calmly placed a well directed shot behind the Alloa keeper to round off the scoring at 4 - 2 to Stirling.

Last night they played at the Raploch Centre when they faced Premier League opponents in a friendly match against Dundee United. Tomorrow they face Queen of the South in a 2.15pm ko at Forthbank.

A number of the Under 19 players turned out for the reserves against Saint Mirren at a rain soaked Forthbank on Tuesday night. Manager Allan Moore complimented the youngsters for their contribution to the game and on Sunday the team broke an unwanted string of defeats with a welcome win against Airdrie United in the Irn Bru u19 Youth Division. A convincing victory was built on the basis of an excellent goalkeeping performance from Matthew Porch but each and every player deserves credit for their disciplined performance against tough opponents.

Stirling got off to a great start in the first minutes when a well hit corner from Garry Currie evaded the Airdrie keeper who was being put under pressure by Josh Flood. Stirling dominated much of the next twenty minutes but lost Andy Pender to a bad tackle which resulted in an injury to Pender and a booking for his opponent - this before Airdrie started to threaten an equaliser. Stirling striker Ryan Nimmo has waited a long time for a goal but even he would have to agree there was a degree of luck involved when his cross from far out on the right bemused the goalkeeper and ended in the net.

At the start of the second half Airdrie pushed hard to get back in the game but Matthew Porch produced two great saves tipping over net bound shots.

Stirling certainly showed that they were not willing to concede their lead and Ryan Nimmo was on hand to net  when Josh Flood's shot dropped at his feet off the cross bar.

Airdrie did eventually manage to put the ball passed Porch before Ross McEwan, getting some much needed playing time with the 19's and playing well, netted from Michael Mcadam's precise cross only seconds after the visitor's counter.

This was a hard earned win for the team who have been struggling for a positive result and they will hopefully be in confident mood when they take on Alloa on Sunday at Recreation Park in a game that kicks off at 2.30pm.

The other positive news this week concerns Youth Development funding. On the top of an excellent Speakers' Night fund raiser last week, the Youth Development Department learned that they have been successful in their bid for SFA grant funding. The final figure has to be ratified by the SFA board but the Professional Football Committee has recommended that the Stirling Albion Youth Development programme meets almost all of the criteria assessed in a recent audit and should therefore benefit from considerable SFA support.

This news is encouraging to all those staff involved in trying to produce first team players for the club at present and in the future and gives them the boost to continue their efforts.

15th November 2009

Pride of place from the week end fixtures goes to the Under 13 squad for their performance on Friday night at Forthbank against a strong Clyde team who had earlier in the season inflicted a four goal defeat on the young binos side.

With a few players unable to play due to illness the team called upon Jordan Herron who plays for the 14's side but who is eligible to play u 13. There was also a trialist involved in a game which Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor, described as being one of the best games he has seen in the ten years he has been involved with youth teams at Stirling.

Stirling scored after 15 minutes to take a lead against Clyde. Cameron Smith took his chance well when put through in the box by Sam Davidson. Unfortunately it was his last action as the chest problem which had caused doubt about his involvement flared up again and he had to withdraw.

Clyde hit back with two goals on the counter attack and held the lead as the first period ended.

It was Clyde who struck first in the second period when they gave themselves a two goal lead after poor defending on the edge of the box.

Gradually, however, Stirling came back into the game and before the period ended they scored with a great finish from Sam Davidson following a great defence splitting pass from Jordan Herron.

At the start of the third period Sean Brown netted a deserved equaliser when he finished from close in.

Clyde were determined not to lose their advantage and scored soon after.

Once again Stirling showed great character and Mark Scott attacked the ball at the back post to set up Ross Hughes for a great equaliser.

Again however Clyde showed why they have been one of the most competitive teams in the YDI set up when they again restored their lead.

Stirling however were not to be outdone and netted an equalising goal when Mark Scott's inswinging corner found the net.

The young Stirling team had been asked to show their bravery before this game and they were all quite rightly proud of doing that in a never say die performance full of great play.

Next week they travel to play Cowdenbeath FC.

The u 14's and u 16's teams were both in action on Sunday against Ayr United but unfortunately both lost out . The 14's played at Somerset Park but did not produce the good form of recent weeks. Ian McIntyre scored Stirling's only goal in a disappointing performance. On Sunday they play Alloa FC at Forthbank astro with a 12.15 ko.

The 16's played well in patches but lost to Ayr by 5 -1. Craig Duncan netted the rebound from Shaun Johnston's shot that hit the bar. They play Alloa at Recreation Park on Sunday with an 11.00 am ko.

The 19's scheduled fixture against Dundee fell victim to the heavy rain of the week end and was called off. They are due to meet Airdrie FC on Sunday at Forthbank astro with a 2.15 ko.

Finally, the fourth annual Speakers' Night on behalf of Youth Development at the club took place on Saturday 14th November at Stirling County Rugby Club. Over 220 guests attended and had a superb meal and a terrific night of entertainment from Alex Smith, Jim Leishman and Bert Allan.

The thanks of the Youth Finance Committee go to those who donated auction and raffle prizes and of course to those who attended. It looks like a figure of around £5k will go to support the Youth Development programme.

8th November 2009

Another busy week end for the four youth teams took place from Friday 6th November.

The Under 14 team started proceedings when they met Arbroath at the Forthbank astro with a 7.15ko. After a goalless first period in which Stirling had much of the possession, the home team took a deserved lead when striker Ian McIntyre scored with a well placed and well struck shot following a move that involved Connor Pearson and Danny McLaren. A minute later McIntyre grabbed a second with a shot from the narrowest of angles. Before the end of the second period, following a corner, centre back Greg Skinner forced the ball home to give Stirling a three goal lead.

Arbroath hit back with a goal before Fraser Wilson who was introduced at the start of the third period set up a goal for fellow sub Alex Cleland when he squared the ball over after a forceful run.

Ian McIntyre then grabbed his hat trick goal when he was on hand to knock home the rebound from Fraser Wilson's shot.

The 14's form has improved in recent weeks with good performances against both Clyde and Arbroath. Next week they travel to Ayr United for an 11.00pm KO of Carrick Academy.

The 13's scheduled game against Dumbarton was called off due to an unplayable pitch at Dumbarton but the team were in action in a friendly fixture against a Livingston FC select of combined 13's / 14's. Stirling went down 3 - 2 but put on another good performance to add to those of recent weeks when they played extremely well in beating both Queen of the South and Ross County.

The 13's face tough opposition on Friday this week when they play Clyde FC at Forthbank astro at 7.15pm

The 16's travelled up to Arbroath on Sunday but did not produce the fighting display required against their Angus opponents. Shaun Johnston scored a clever lob but the team defended poorly and went down 5 - 1.

The team meets Ayr United on Sunday at Forthbank at 3.15pm and will need to produce a strong performance against the physical Ayrshire side.

The 19's were again disappointing in their re - arranged game at Stenhousemuir on Sunday morning. A fighting Stennie side, who have been struggling for results, were the more determined team and despite having most of the early play, Stirling fell behind to a poorly defended goal after 25 minutes. Only minutes later the home team doubled their advantage, again after Stirling lost possession too easily.

A half time 'talking to' saw an improvement in Stirling's performance. Andy Hunter struck the post with a great headed effort but the Binos could not find a goal to put their opponents under pressure. Gregg Munn and Kenny Govan gave the type of determined performance required to break a run of poor results and their team mates should follow their example as they try to find a win. 

The 19's travel to Dundee on Sunday when they will play the Dark Blues at the home of Dundee Violets at 12 noon.

The annual Speakers' Night Dinner for Youth Development Funds takes place on Saturday 14th November at Bridgehaugh, home of Stirling County Rugby Club. Youth Finance Committee chairman, Ian Henderson and his fellow committee members have worked hard in preparation and everything looks set for a successful event. Over 230 tickets have been sold and the guests can look forward to good food and entertainment from speakers, Alex Smith, Jim Leishman and Bert Allan.

Thanks are due to those who have purchased tickets, including the first team squad and management and to those who have offered auction and raffle prizes.

Finally, the Youth Department recently came under the scrutiny of the SFA in the Youth Audit process. The SFA recognised the efforts of those involved at Stirling Albion Youth to meet the strict criteria that is in place. One or two small details need to be addressed to secure the vital Grant Aid funding awarded by the SFA but Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor is confident that this will be done.

6th November 2009

Stirling Albion under 14's turned in a five star performance this evening against Arbroath on the Forthbank astro. In a first period dominated by the home side their excellent passing and moving play failed to bring any goals. This changed in the first five minutes of the second period when good play saw the boys switch the play from the left to the centre and on to the right and saw Chris Ogilvie play Ian McIntyre in to score the opener. The same player added his and the teams second a few minutes later when he scored from a tight angle. The visitors slowly came in to the game after this but it was the Albion who added another goal when Greg Skinner got the final touch in a goal mouth scramble following a corner. Arbroath pulled a goal back when they broke down the right and Pearson was unable to clear the low cross allowing the Arbroath forward to score. The third period saw the home side continue to dominate and their good play was rewarded when a strong run down the left by Fraser Wilson took him away from the defender and his cross was touched over at the back post by Alex Cleland. Late in the period another pacey run by Fraser Wilson saw him break free and he ran in on goal his shot was initially blocked by the keeper but Ian McIntyre followed up to complete his hat-trick. Coaches Tom Ogilvie and Kevin Hepburn were delighted with the performance which had been building up over the last few weeks and praised the players on their performance .

4th November 2009

The Stirling Albion Under 19 team continue to face frustration on the SFL Irn Bru Youth Division fixtures. Despite another excellent performance from many of the team in difficult conditions against Dunfermline FC a week past Sunday the result saw them lose out to the Fifers by 4 – 0. Ryan Nimmo shot over from six yards out after a good move which should have seen Stirling take the lead after 10minutes. The chance was gone and Dunfermline hit with two counters before the half time whistle. Trialist keeper Callum Sinclair had a fantastic save to give the Binos a chance to close the gap with the strong wind behind them in the second half. Andy Hunter netted from close in but was adjudged to be offside and as it so often happens it was Dunfermline who netted at the other end.

A good number of players can be satisfied with their individual contribution in this game but frustration is resulting in a lack of confidence. Last weekends match against Montrose, which was due to be played on the main stadium pitch was postponed due to the heavy rain.

Mrs Ina Shaw, a great supporter of the Youth Development Programme, celebrated her 80th birthday recently and Graeme Donald, the under 19 coach, presented her with a bouquet of flowers an behalf of the youths. Graeme said, ‘Mrs Shaw has displayed her support and generosity to the Youth programme many times before and did so again this week when she donated her birthday gift money to the U 19 team. We will purchase rain jackets for the team with the money Mrs Shaw donated. Thanks once again for her support.’

The Under 16 team were also on duty in Fife a week past Sunday and secured a good result against Cowdenbeath at Rosyth. Shaun Johnston netted for Stirling in the first minute of the first period and Stirling remained in charge of events. Steven Forbes netted a second to secure a well earned win. Last Friday night they entertained Clyde at Forthbank and fell to a 3-1 defeat. The first Clyde goal came when the Stirling defence did not react to a short corner allowing the visitors to score. They then found themselves two down when a ball over top saw the Clyde forward close in on goal to score. They responded immediately from the restart when Forbes beat a few players and passed to Craig Duncan who turned to score. The final goal came when a corner fell in the six yard box and the Clyde player was quicker to react to score. This weekend the 16' s in entertain Arbroath at Forthbank.

The U 14 team were hosts to Cowdenbeath a fortnight ago and they put on an excellent display of good football. It looked that their efforts were not to be rewarded despite a number of great chances being created. Pleasingly, Ian McIntyre scored a deserved equaliser for Stirling late in the game. SFA observer, Campbell Money complimented the Stirling team on the type of football they were attempting to play.

Last weekend they made the short trip to Clyde. Although they fell to a disappointing 5-3 defeat only poor defending at corners were the difference between the two sides as both teams put on an entertaining match in the wet conditions. After falling two behing the reponded immediately when Tapping broke down the right and his cross was met by Chris Ogilvie who shot home. Ian McIntyre then got them on level terms when he took a pass on the turn to shoot into the corner from 18 yards. Set pieces then took over when Clyde added another three goals from corners. The young Binos though got their third when Conner Pearson headed home from an Albion corner. The 14's entertain Arbroath at Forthbank on Friday evening with a 7pm kick off in a swapped fixture.

The u 13 followed up their good away win against Stranraer with another excellent performance, this time at home to Queen of the South. Sam Davidson scored with a clever 18 yard lob over the keeper to give Stirling an early lead but things took a turn for the worse when Queens responded with three goals in six minutes before the end of the period. Some poor defending was the cause but the players responded really well in the second and third periods. Connor McKenzie fired in from 18 yards before Sean Brown made himself some space before netting in the bottom left hand corner to bring Stirling level. With their confidence now much higher, Stirling went on to add further goals with every player producing a good standard of play, and the team working well together. Greig Weir played a great through ball for Sean Brown to finish in style before Cameron Smith finished from close in from a great cross by Mark Connell. Keeper Callum Christie pulled off a great save to dent any Queen of the South hopes of a comeback and Ross Hughes scored two great goals to round off the scoring. His first saw him drive forward to beat the last defender before sliding the ball passed the advancing keeper and his second was a front post flick after an excellent team move.

Once again they continued their fine form with a convincing win over Ross County at Stirling University last week. Goals came from a Sam Davidson hat-trick, Connor McKenzie, Sean Brown, Cameron Smith, Daniel Wilcox and Mark Scott along with a couple of og's. This weekend they travel to meet Dumbarton.

Over £1,000.00 has been collected from the recent Youth Team sponsored walk in late September. Thanks to all parents and friends who have contributed to this fundraiser and also the staff at the Falkirk Wheel, the boys enjoyed their ride on the wheel.

11th October 2009

On Friday evening the Under 16’s played host to Hamilton BC in a friendly at Forthbank. The boys were slow to come out of the blocks as Hamilton dominated the match and it was no surprise that they took the lead in the first period which they dominated. The second period saw Stirling begin to come in to the game and spurned a couple of chances to equalise. They were punished when Hamilton broke and added a second. The third period saw Stirling control the match and they eventually grabbed a couple of goals to end the match in a draw.

After a very poor start to Friday’s friendly game the U16 Stirling boys came out all guns blazing and dominated the first half against Queens Park. Stirling took the words of coaches Breton and Henderson and built on their performance to produce very good individual performances from all 16 players throughout the game.  Stephen Forbes was the unlucky victim of an accidental challenge after 25 minutes which seen him carried off with a sprained ankle that will put him out for two weeks.  Johnson again produced a hard working performance and was unlucky not to score twice with 1v1s against a QP GK who did well to keep a clean sheet. During the last 25 minutes of the game QP started to dominate with GK Reece McKenzie producing two excellent saves to keep Stirling in the game, however QP got a lucky break from a corner in 82minutes which seen the ball rebounded and land in the back of the net. Stirling battled right to the end however could not produce the goal to see them get anything out the game which both team’s managers thought they deserved. Apart from the result coaches Henderson and Breton were extremely pleased and proud of the performances by all players and feel it is only a matter of time before this team finds their first win to build upon. The 16’s have a free weekend this week.

The under 14’s buoyant from their victory last week against Elgin City travelled to Lesser Hampden to take on Queens Park. Queens always an excellent side showed their passing and movement throughout the game but never really threatened the goal and the Albion boys also showed they can also play as the game was fairly even. Queens though did take the lead when a cross from the right came off an Albion defender in an aerial challenge and landed in the net. The Albion had a couple of chances to grab an equaliser before the end of the period but were unable to finish. The second period was similar to the first with both teams having a couple of chances, but Queens took one of theirs after the forward got free on the right and his cut back was shot home from 16 yards by the following up midfielder.

The third period was one to forget as some tentative defending allowed the home team to grab to quick goals. The Albion did have a couple of opportunities through Cleland and a great solo run from Pearson but both shot wide while well placed. Queens added another before the end on what turned out to be a disappointing afternoon. Like the 16’s the 14’s have a free weekend this coming week.

4th October 2009

On Friday evening the under 19 side played their SPL counterparts Dundee United here at Forthbank in the Scottish Youth Cup. Although a disappointing result in the end the players showed great commitment throughout the tie but were beaten by an excellent Dundee United side.

The Albion dominated the first 30 minutes of the match playing some good football and not allowing their SPL opponents out of their half. It was though United who took the lead against the run of play when they went ahead with their first attack of the match a caught the Albion defence napping. The lead did not last long as Andrew Hunter latched on to a ball to score from close range. The SPL side though began to show their ability to control the game and scored a further three times before the break.

The second half again saw the SPL side control the match and they scored on a further three occasions. The Albion side though were not to be denied another goal and Jordan O’Donnell grabbed his sides second. At the end of the day it was a thoroughly deserved victory for United and nobody could deny them their scoreline. Manager Allan Moore attended the match and went in to speak to the players after the match and commended them on how they played against a strong and excellent side from the SPL. The players will have learnt a lot from the match and will be hoping to take that into their match this weekend against East Stirling which will be on Sunday at Stirling University. Then on Monday evening they travel to Murray park to take on Rangers in a friendly. On Friday 16th October they will be at home to Raith Rovers with a 7.15 kick off.

The under 14’s had a busy past week. On Tuesday evening they travelled to Almondvale for a friendly against Livingston. The game could not have got off to a worse start for the boys who found themselves two down in the first seven minutes. They recovered though and began to dominate proceedings. In the second period they got their reward when Greg Skinner attacked a corner at the front post giving the Livingston rearguard not opportunity to stop the ball going in. They continued to press and Ian McIntyre beat the offside trap and ran through to equalise. The third period saw the Albion continue to dominate and with ten minutes to go Fraser Wilson controlled the ball 20 yards out and smashed a great shot high into the net. It was not to be as in added time the home side grabbed an equaliser in a goalmouth scramble from a free kick.

On Sunday they entertained Elgin City. In an entertaining game Ian McIntyre put the Albion ahead in the second minute after running on to through ball to score. Although clear cut chances were scarce, Liam Harper made an excellent stop in a one in one situation to keep the Albion ahead. Towards the end of the third period excellent work by Fraser Wilson saw him set up Ian McIntyre to grab his and the Albions second goal. Next Sunday the 14’s travel to Glasgow to take on Queens Park.  

The under 13’s also entertained Elgin City in the early match at Forthbank. In an impressive performance they dominated proceedings. Sean Brown got them off to an early start in the first period and Connor McKenzie soon added a second. Mark Scott got the third as the boys controlled the match. Elgin though got a goal back in the second period but the 13’s quickly restored their three goal advantage as Connor McKenzie got his second and Daniel Wilcox then added a fifth. Elgin then pulled another goal back in the third period. Connor McKenzie grabbed his hat-trick and John Yuill finished off the scoring for the Albion. The 13’s make the long journey on Sunday down to Stranraer for a 1pm kick off.

The 16’s had a blank weekend and this Friday the play host to Hamilton BC at Forthbank with a 7.15 kick off. On Sunday they will entertain Queens Park at Forthbank with 12.15 kick off.

14th September 2009

The under 19 team unfortunately had no opportunity to build on their fine win in the SFL Irn-Bru Under 19 Division against Queen of the South last week as they were one of the teams with a bye in the first round of the Scottish FA Youth Cup. Stirling will meet the winners of the Stenhousemuir v Dundee United tie at home on Sunday 4th October in a game that will hopefully be played at Forthbank on the Main Stadium pitch.

The team resume League business on Sunday with a scheduled fixture away to Morton FC.

The under 13 team were due to play two fixtures over the week end but Cowdenbeath FC called off from the game on Sunday as late as Saturday tea time saying that they could not field a team. This was a disappointment to everyone at Stirling Albion but was clearly outwith their control. The team had played on Friday in a re - scheduled match against Dumbarton FC and featured in a well contested 3 -3 draw against our near neighbours.

Stirling took an early lead when striker Sean Brown, following a switch of play, found himself 1 v 1 with the keeper to score after only 34 seconds of play. Dumbarton equalised with a free kick played high into the goals. Keeper Callum Christie, younger brother of Scott, has shown great potential but at this stage in his development cannot do too much about shots played at height over him.

Stirling fell behind in the second period when, following a throw, the Dumbarton forward found himself free  only five yards from goal.

Stirling came back to equalise with a goal from Ross Hughes and the period finished at 2 - 2

In the third period the teams were well matched. Stirling scored with only ten minutes remaining when Mark Scott was handy to tap in from close range. In the last minute of play, with Stirling looking for an offside decision Dumbarton equalised to end the scoring.

The 13's game this week end will be on Friday away to Queen's Park at Williamwood HS. An early evening kick off - 6.15pm is expected.

Under 13 coach, Davy Adams sits his SFA Level 4 Youth award on Sunday so the club wishes him good luck for that assessment.

The Under 14  and Under 16 teams shared transport North to Dingwall on Sunday for games against Ross County.

The 14's suffered a 5 - 1 defeat but their performance did not reflect the scoreline. Scott McLay hit the bar with a good header as Stirling started the better team in the first period. At 0 - 0 at the start of the second period the game could have gone anyway but it was Ross County, who with three quick goals in a five minute period, took command.

In the third period Danny McLaren was brought down in the box and then scored with the penalty to make the scoreline 3 - 1. Ross County secured their win with two late goals. Stirling Albion are suffering from not taking their chances - five  1 on 1 chances were squandered and then basic mistakes made at the other end cost them dearly.

Their fixture on Sunday is a home game at the Forthbank astro against Partick Thistle with a 2.15 pm kick off. Coach Tom Ogilvie also sits his SFA assessment on Sunday so best wishes go to Tom for a successful morning.

The 16's team also at Ross County got off to an excellent start. Craig Duncan scored with a header from close in after a blocked attempt and the Shaun Johnston scored a scorcher with a 15 yard angled shot that screamed into the top corner with the keeper helpless. Ross County played their way back into the game and scored when they capitalised on an error in defence.

Their equaliser had a hint of offside and Stirling had a couple of late efforts cleared off the line as the game ended at 2 - 2. The 16's play against Partick Thistle on Sunday with the game taking place at Petershill Park in Springburn with a 4.00pm kick off.

On Saturday morning the players in the u 13 and u 14 squads are involved in a Fund Raising Sponsored Walk. The annual event sees the boys walk from Bonnybridge Sports Centre to the Falkirk Wheel and back. All donations will be kindly received.

The players will have lunch at Alex Smith's Milhall Restaurant and then attend the game against East Fife, courtesy of club chairman, Peter McKenzie. A half time collection will be made so again the Youth Department are hopeful of fan's support.

Stirling Albion's Head of Youth Development, Stewart Taylor, has been elected to a group responsible for the organisation of International school and youth football.

At the AGM in Dublin last week, Stewart was elected as Vice Chairman of SAFIB - the group that organises the Sky Victory Shield Competition for u 16's and the Carnegie Centenary Shield Competition at u 18.

6th September 2009

The week end proved a busy one for the Stirling Albion youth teams with four games taking place. Unfortunately the under 16 missed out on their game when their scheduled fixture away to Queen of the South fell victim of the very heavy rain in the Dumfries area and was duly called off.

The u 13 team did play in the heavy rain of Sunday morning when they travelled to Broadwood Stadium to play Clyde FC in their SFA YDI fixture. The team suffered a defeat but can be well pleased with aspects of their performance as they ‘find their feet’ as a new team in the set up.

Having started the game well, they were disappointed to fall behind to a scrappy goal after twenty minutes. Responding well the young Binos forced an equaliser after a corner kick was turned in smartly by striker Sean Brown. Stirling then suffered a loss when centre half Mark Smith could not continue due to a painful knee. As defensive adjustments were being made Clyde got in front just before the end of the first period.

The home team forced themselves further ahead with goals at the start of the second period before Sam Davidson pulled one back for Stirling. The youngster’s first effort was cleared off the line but he kept a cool head to net when the ball came back out to him. In the final period Mark Scott scored with an excellent long range strike but Clyde, surely one of the strongest opponents around at this age group score two late goals to earn them a good victory, Stirling fought well and there were a number of excellent individual performances.

The team can look forward to their next games on the upcoming week end. On Friday night at 7.15pm they will meet Dumbarton FC on the astro at Forthbank and then on Sunday at 12.15 noon they will play Cowdenbeath FC, also at home

The u 14 Stirling team bounced back from their disappointing performance at Alloa to defeat Queen of the South on Sunday at Forthbank. The victory was achieved, once again, after the team conceded at two goal lead during the opening period of the game. The Dumfries side were unfortunate not to earn a draw, missing a number of chances late in the game.

Down two nil, Stirling were given a lifeline when Scott McLay was on hand to knock in a rebound when the Queen’s keeper could only parry a long range effort. The home team were then level at the start of the second period when Connor Pearson scored by netting the rebound from his own penalty kick which the visitor’s keeper had saved.

Further goals from Thomas Lowe, an excellent left footed finish, and a spectacular strike from Wallace Wilson put Stirling ahead by two. The Doon Hammers kept coming back and they scored again before a second penalty kick, taken and scored by Thomas Lowe, gave Stirling a two goal lead once again.

Nervous defending from Stirling allowed Queens to score again to end the scoring with Stirling holding on to win by the odd goal in nine.

Next week the 14’s will travel to Dingwall to meet Ross County.

At the same time the u 16 team will also play against Ross County in Dingwall with both teams setting out from Forthbank at 8.00am on Sunday. The games will kick off at 1.30pm.

The under 19 Stirling Albion side had a busy week end with two games taking place.

On Friday night they played a match against Monk Seaton College from Newcastle on the astro at Forthbank. Stirling used the game to have a look at a number of triallists but were still disappointed to lose a very competitive game by 2 – 1. Ross Gallacher scored the home team’s goal.

On Sunday they took on Queen of the South in an Irn Bru SFL Youth Division fixture which was fast, furious and very exciting as both teams went all out for victory.

Stirling started the game on form and with Ross McEwan providing real pace up front almost took the lead. McEwan who is now a first team squad member was able to play as an overage player and was joined in the team by Kenny Feaks who has also been involved at first team level. McEwan went close twice then fellow striker Ryan Nimmo should have scored with a chance from close in.

Queens took full advantage of these misses and they took the lead just before the end of the first half. Gregg Munn, with his only mistake in an otherwise excellent performance, failed to clear and when the striker’s shot hit the bar his team mate was on hand to net the rebound.

In the second period, Stirling steadily began to dominate. The experience that Kenny Feaks has gained in the first team was obvious as he marshalled the defence around him. Ross Teirney, Willie Whiteford and Gregg Munn were solid and in midfield the hard work of Kenny Govan and composed play of Gary Currie swung the game in Stirling’s favour. Triallist, Josh Flynn was performing well and his well struck shot was parried out by the Queen’s keeper. Substitute Andy Hunter pounced on the rebound to net a well deserved equaliser with twenty minutes to play.

The home team went on to secure their first three points in the League campaign. McEwan’s pace once again took him clear of the Queen’s defence who were trying for offside. This time McEwan made sure of his goal with a raging strike in the top corner to put Stirling ahead.

Moments before time up Josh Flynn broke clear and after his first attempt was blocked he netted the rebound to secure the win with an excellent 3 – 1 victory.

Next week sees the start of the SFA Youth Cup competition. Stirling have a bye in the first round and await the winners of Dundee United and Stenhousemuir. Competition for a starting place in the current squad is pretty fierce and with manager Allan Moore intending to view some u 19 players in a friendly fixture this week the incentive for the team to build on this excellent performance and win is clearly obvious.

The players and parents of the u 14 and u 13 squads will be invited to attend a parents’ information night at Forthbank on Thursday 10th September in the Castle Suite at Forthbank at 6.00pm.

The first fund raising event of the season will be the annual Sponsored Walk to the Falkirk Wheel which will take place on Saturday 19th Septmber. Players from the u 13 and u 14 team will set out at 10.00am to walk from Bonnybridge to the Falkirk Wheel and back following which they will attend the first team game at Forthbank against East Fife courtesy of Chairman Peter McKenzie.

30th August 2009

A number of Stirling Albion FC Youth coaches attended, along with Manager Allan Moore and Head of Youth Stewart Taylor, a Conference on Youth Football in Scotland held at Hampden Park on Sunday 30th August. The main speaker was ex Scotland boss Andy Roxburgh now Head of Development at UEFA. With healthy debate of where we go as a football nation taking place those who attended found the day long conference well worth it.

The conference meant that fixtures had to be re - arranged. It was not possible to arrange the u 13 team's scheduled fixture against Dumbarton so instead a game against a combined u 13 / u14 team at Livingston FC was arranged. Livingston are not involved in the Youth development programme as a result of the club's financial difficulties but they are attempting to keep their programme alive with friendly fixtures. The young Stirling team were happy to oblige and travelled to play the game at Almondvale on Friday evening. Livingston won the game with the only goal scored in the final period in a well contested fixture.

The young team are due to play Clyde FC in their next YDI fixture and the game has been arranged for Sunday at Broadwood Stadium astroturf pitch with a 10.00am kick off.

The U 16 team were also involved in a fixture on Friday when they took on local rivals, Alloa Athletic at the Forthbank astro. Within the first 4 minutes, Stirling found themselves two goals up. In the first attack of the game a well worked move saw Steven Day close in on goal and he netted with a far post shot. Only a few minutes later Steven Forbes cleverly beat his opponent in the box and was brought down for a clear penalty award. Shaun Johnston confidently shot home.

Alloa came back, to their credit, hitting the bar before finally scoring to reduce the gap. Steven Forbes was unlucky to hit the post with ten minutes remainining but it was Alloa who finished celebrating a good comeback when they equalised in the final minute of play.

The 16's have a journey to Dumfries on Sunday when they travel to play Queen of the South. Kick off 2.00pm.

The u 14 team who came back so well in last week's game against Ayr United could not manage to do the same as they slumped to a poor performance against Alloa Athletic on Saturday afternoon at Recreation Park. In a game where not much went well for Stirling it was Alloa who played a more forceful game and won by 4 -1. A long range free kick from Connor Pearson was the only highlight in a disappointing show and the team coaches Tom Ogilvie and Kevin Hepburn will be working hard to put things right and restore the confidence of the team before Sunday's game against Queen of the South. The game against Queens kicks of at 12.15 on the Forthbank astro.

The under 19 team also meet Queen of the South on Sunday at Forthbank with a 2.15 kick off. With no Irn Bru fixture last week end the team played a number of triallists in a friendly against Leith Amateurs on Saturday. The team performance was well below the standard required as they lost to their Edinburgh opponents. They play on Friday night in a friendly against an English schools' championship winning team from Newcastle with a 7.15 ko at Forthbank astro and coaches Graham Donald and Dave Binnie will be looking for a big improvement before selecting the team for Sunday's SFL Youth Division game.

On Thursday night this week all four squads will gather at Forthbank to have team photos for the season taken. Players will report for a 6.00pm photo shoot.

Congratulations to Craig Young who has been involved with the first team recently and who made his full first team League debut when he came on as a sub in the win against Peterhead. Manager Allan Moore has been impressed with Craig's impact since joining the squad from the 19's at the start of the season and the fans have been impressed with his appearances in recent midweek games.

23rd August 2009

Stenhousemuir u 19's v Stirling Albion

With both teams in attendance bright and early at Ochilview for the Irn Bru under 19 Youth Division game with a 10.00am kick off, only one thing was missing - the referee! When the official failed to turn up the clubs decided to play a friendly game which the Larbert side won 3 - 1. The official game will have to be re - arranged which will give the Stirling team an opportunity to reverse the friendly game result. Stirling are the odd team out in a 21 team league next week end so have no scheduled fixtures. Coaches Graham Donald and David Binnie will be trying to arrange a mid week friendly with Doune Castle Amateurs and the team will play a touring English Schools' Championship winning team at Ochilview on Friday 4th September at Forthbank.

The Scottish Football Association Youth Development Initiative fixtures started on Sunday and Stirling Albion had three teams participating in the scheduled matches.

The Under 16 squad travelled to Maybole to play a competitive Ayr United team and did well to earn a draw. Stirling scored first when a Steven Forbes free kick from the right deceived the Ayr keeper and found the back of the net.Ayr equalised when Binos keeper, Lewis Usher, saved well but could only parry a shot. The Ayr forward pounced on the rebound chance to equalise and there was no futher scoring. Stirling meet Alloa next Friday - 28th Aug at Forthbank Astro with a 7.15pm ko.

The Under 14 side were hosts to Ayr United at Forthbank for their first YDI fixture of the season.

Stirling proved to be too generous to their visitors and within ten minutes they were three goals down.However showing a bit of determined spirit the team then set about repairing the damage.

Ian McIntyre showed determination hustling an Ayr defender into losing possession before going on to score Stirling's first goal.

In the second period Stirling took charge . Mid fielder Craig Hepburn burst forward and hit the post with his long range shot. Striker Scott McLay, making progress in recovering from his leg break last season, was on hand to knock home the rebound. Chris Ogilvie then scored Stirling's equaliser with a well struck shot into the roof of the net after good link up play with Danny McLaren.

Ian McIntyre rounded off Stirling's dominance of the period with a fourth goal when he showed good skill stepping inside the defender before firing home.

There were no goals in the final, third, period so the young binos managed to start their fixtures with a hard earned win.

The next fixture is against Alloa and has been provisionally arranged for Saturday 29th August at Recreation Park with a 2.00pm ko

The newly formed u 13 team faced a marathon journey for their first official game when they travelled to Dingwall to play Ross County. Fortunately, the boys put on a great display to earn a comfortable win and so made the homeward journey feel not quite so long.

Mark Smith headed home from a corner to give Stirling an early lead then forward Sean Brown took on his opponent in a 1 v1 before scoring. Midfielder Connor McKenzie added a third for Stirling at the start of the second period before Ross County scored their first goal. Left mid fielder Mark Connell netted with a long range effort from outside the box and this was followed by a goal from even further out from centre half Mark Smith for his second goal.

Mid fielder Mark Scott then showed he could do likewise with a well struck shot from the edge of the box.

Ross County came back to score a second before Mark Scott concluded the scoring in the second period with a volley from closer in to put Stirling well in command.

In the third period striker Sam Davidson netted twice , as did Ross County to draw the third period.

The u 13 team have started their involvement very well and this was an encouraging performance from all the new young players. Next week they are due to meet Dumbarton but an SFA Conference for Youth Coaches will mean this fixture has to be re arranged from the Sunday scheduled date.

17th August 2009

The Irn Bru SFL Under 19 Youth Division started on Sunday 16th August and the Stirling side found themselves up against tough opposition in the shape of Livingston FC. The West Lothian club may well be having a difficult time at the moment but they are still able to support 8 full time youth players and they continue to be a force to be reckoned with at Youth level.

Sunday's game at Forthbank astro ended 4 -2 to the visitors and left the Stirling team disappointed with the way they defended at times. The team lost a goal after only five minutes when a Livingston player headed home unmarked. Mid fielder Kenny Govan scored a good equaliser following excellent build up play only for the same poor defending to happen again to make the score 2 -1 .

Livingston extended their lead before Ross McEwan - recently promoted to the first team squad - scored to make it 3 - 2. Livingston finished the scoring to record a comfortable 4 - 2 win.
Next week the 19's travel the short journey to Ochilview for their game against Stenhousemuir which has a 10.00am kick off.

The SFA Youth Initiative fixtures begin on August 23rd and each of the three other Stirling Albion Youth teams concluded their pre season preparations last week.

The under 14 team were extremely disappointed with a late collapse against Falkirk at Stirling University last Thursday but they are looking forward to their first official game of the season on Sunday at Forthbank astro against Ayr United at 12 .15.

Likewise the u 16's went down to a well drilled Renfrew Victoria side on Sunday in their last warm up game. They travel to play Ayr United at Maybole on Sunday with a 12 .noon ko in prospect.

The new u 13 squad had two good wins against boys' club sides in recent days. Firstly they defeated Hamilton BC last Wednesday and on Sunday acheived the same scoreline away from home against Renfrew Victoria. The newly formed team has taken shape well so far but the real test starts on Sunday when they make the long journey North to play Ross County at Dingwall.

Good luck to all the players in the youth teams for the coming season.

SPORTS CENTRAL AND SFA CENTRAL REGION COACH DEVELOPMENT EVENING

Sports Central and the SFA Central Region are holding a Coach Development Evening on Friday 28th August at Ochilview Park, Stenhousemuir from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. The main theme for the night is Passing with Vision, Decision and Precision & Children Level 4 Award Content. The talk deliverer for the evening is former Albion player Mark McNally.

This talk is free for coaches/volunteers/staff and if anybody is interested they should contact Alan Morgan on 01324 590720 or morgana@sportcentral.org.uk

14th August 2009

The SFA and SFL have announced their Youth Divisional Fixtures for season 2009/10. The clubs under 13's, 14's and 16's will play in the SFA Youth Development Youth Initiative and the Under 19's will play in the Irn-Bru Under 19 Division. Please note that all fixtures are subject to change.

3rd August 2009

The u19's lost in midweek to a strong Stirling Amateur team whose experience proved to be a telling factor. The young Stirling Albion players would benefit from the 5 - 0 defeat - but only if they take on board the lessons from their more mature opponents.

On Friday night in their fourth pre season game the 19's played Edinburgh City u19's on the Forthbank astro. In another beneficial match a number of triallist showed up well in a 3 -3 draw.

Edinburgh took a first half lead but when sub forward Andy Hunter came on, things changed for the Albion. Hunter crossed for sub Ross Gallacher to net from close in. The same player then netted a goal for himself when a long range shot deflected over the Edinburgh keeper. Stirling took a 3 -1 lead when Danny Ashe, recovered from last season's leg break. also netted. In a disappointing finish for the home team they allowed Edinburgh to come back with two late goals to secure a draw.

The 19's are due to play Milton Amateurs on Tuesday of this week but Manager Allan Moore is considering playing a number of Youth players in the Stirlingshire Cup tie due on the same evening.

The new u13 team formed after trials over the last five weeks had its first match last week when they played against Strathendrick BC. The new team made a good start with a 7-0 victory over a plucky Strathendrick side. The new group will face stiffer opposition on Friday at Forthbank when they take on a young Falkirk under 12 squad.

The 14's side recovered from their heavy defeat at Rangers last week end when they beat an u15 Riverside team at the Hawes last Tuesday. Stirling won 3-0  producing some very good play. The 14's meet a Dundee United team at Forthbank on Sunday at 4.00pm as they prepare for the start of the season on the 23rd August.

The u 16's squad also play next Sunday in a friendly fixture against East Stirling. The match is being played in Bo'ness.

1st August 2009

The four Stirling Albion youth sides are now well in to their pre-season schedule and have now began playing some friendlies. The 19's have had a 2-2 draw with Uphall Amateurs and have a number of other friendlies to come. They have seen kenny Feaks, Craig Young and Ross McEwan step up into the first team squad.

The 16's have played one match at Murray Park against Rangers where they were soundly beaten, but training has gone well and they have a number of friendly fixtures lined up.

The 14's have been in action for a few weeks and they also were soundly beaten by Rangers at Murray Park last week with Alex Clelland getting their consolation. They had a comfortable victory over Riverside on Tuesday evening with Thomas Low grabbing a brace and Fraser Wilson the other.

The new under 13 side is now in action after a number of trial days and they played their fixture against Strathendrick in the week and they came away with a sound victory and are looking forward to another series of friendlies.

Today six players from the under 14's, Daniel McLaren, Ian McIntyre, Craig Hepburn, Chris Ogilvie, Liam Crawford and keeper Liam Harper represented the club in the CIS Insurance Cup family fun day at Forthbank. They took part in the half time 10 second challenge against their counter parts from Ayr United. Unfortunately then boys from Ayr came out on top by the odd goal.

Also coaches Stewart Taylor, David Eccles, David Binnie and Tom Ogilvie put winning entrants from CIS Cup competitions and some Young Reds through a coaching course on the pitch before the match.

Under 14 team and coaches

29th June 2009

Youth Development Programme Under 13 Trials

Are You Good Enough?

Stirling Albion FC is offering the opportunity to talented and committed young players to try for a place in their Youth Development Programme for next season and will give the chance to players to attend a player assessment session.

On SATURDAY 4th JULY at Forthbank Astroturf

Qualified coaches will be available to assess your suitability for a place in the programme which involves participation in the SFA Youth Development Initiative.

Players born in 1997 can try out for a new Under 13 age group team reporting at 9.30am for a 10.00am start.

Contact the club (tel. 07989 454 991) with your details if you would like the opportunity to develop your game towards senior level.

Note : If you are registered with a club currently you must ask for permission from your club to attend the trial.

3rd May 2009

The season drew to a disappointing end for the Stirling Albion U-17 team when they played their final Irn Bru Youth League Cup qualifying match on Friday night at Forthbank. Another defeat at the hands of Queen's Park, this time with a 4 - 1 scoreline, meant elimination for the side who had performed well in the League through out the year but struggled badly in the league cup matches. Goalkeeper Darren Dolan had another excellent performance producing a number of goal preventing saves but little else went the way of the home team against a strong Queen's Park outfit Team coaches Ally Breton and Murray Falconer will now discuss with Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor to decide which of the young players from the 17's team will be retained and progress to the u 19 team for next season. This is never an easy decision with some disappointment for players inevitable but every consideration will be made before a final decision will be made on individual players.

The U-19 team have one game outstanding in their league cup campaign but following a disappointing result away to Dunfermline last week end it seems unlikely that the team will progress. The defeat the previous week to Livingston had given the team some hope prior to their game at Dunfermline. Having suffered a heavy defeat at home to the West Lothian team, Stirling were extremely unlucky to lose 3 -2. A late sending off and a head injury to Kenny Feaks which meant he had to come off when Stirling had made all three substitutions meant that the Binos played the last part of the game with nine players and the unfortunately lost their 2 - 1 lead. The team came out of that game with a great deal of credit but let themselves down in their match with Dunfermline. Losing two early goals once more in the first few minutes of the game sapped all the confidence of the team and they eventually lost 5 - 1. As with the 17's, decisions regarding who will be retained and who will move on will be made by team coaches Graeme Donald and Dave Binnie but it is their hope that manager Allan Moore will give serious consideration to a number of players who will next year be too old to play u 19 but who they believe could force their way into the first team squad. A number of the team have another season at the u 19 age group and they will be given the opportunity to stake their claim in the final league cup match at home to St Johnstone on Sunday at Forthbank at 12.15pm.

The U-15 team met Livingston at Forthbank last Sunday and the game started in spectacular fashion. Stirling conceded a penalty kick in the first minute only for keeper Andy Duncan to save well diving to his left. Then new signing Declan Winters fired in a great strike which the keeper did well to turn over the bar. From the corner a goal bound header was cleared off the line by Livingston who the proceeded to score from their first corner of the game - all in the opening few minutes. Stirling eventually settled to play some very good football and Shaun Johnston netted once again with a clever finish from the edge of the box having used his pace to clear the last defender. Unfortunately having scored, the Stirling team conceded a second goal very quickly and there was no further scoring in what was a very even match refereed well by Peter Crosbie. The decision has been made already to retain all eighteen signed players for next season provided that the SFA are able to provide fixtures for the team when they move to the u 16 age group. This team has two fixtures remaining against Cowdenbeath and Queen of the South, both games due at Forthbank, but they have no fixture this weekend.

After the confusion of a double booking at the original scheduled venue the U-13 team ended up playing against Dumbarton at the Strathclyde Homes Stadium on Sunday. Unfortunately they too were beaten but the scoreline did not reflect the good play of the Stirling team for much of the match. Wallace Wilson netted for Stirling but Dumbarton were too strong in the windy conditions for the Stirling team to match. The 13's have two games left as well. On Friday they meet Queen's Park in a tough assignment at Forthbank with a 7.15pm ko and then finish their season away to Livingston. The make up of next season's squad is still to be decided with a number of new signings already lined up. This of course means that a few players may be released to make way for newcomers but this will only happen after thoughtful consideration. It is the nature of football that this has to happen and Stirling Albion would hope that any player who is released will have enjoyed his involvement and will continue to play and develop in the future.

23rd April 2009

On Tuesday evening the under 19's travelled to Livingston for their Irn-Bru League Cup match. After 15 minutes the signs for the boys looked bleak as they fell two goals behind. In three previous matches between the sides this season the West Lothian Club have won convincingly. But the Albion fought back and in the 20th minute Kenny Govan got one back when he fired home from 12 yards. Before the break it was back to level terms when Ross McEwan scored from a Liam Corr cut back. The second half saw the young Binos go in front when Ross McEwan ran on to a through ball to slip it under the Livingston keeper to score his second and his seventh in four games. Unfortunately the lead was short lived when the home side got back on level terms immediately. Worse was to come as Craig Young saw red and then Kenny Feaks had to leave the pitch with a head injury. They had to play the last nine minutes with nine men and they almost held out but Livingston grabbed a fourth in the final minute for a 4-3 victory.

19th April 2009

After their Easter Break the Stirling Albion Youth Teams got back in action on Sunday. First up were the under 13's who travelled through to Rosyth to take on Cowdenbeath. On a beautiful sunny day the 13's looked to continue their recent run of form but were to be disappointed. The home side grabbed a first period lead and then added a second in the second period before Daniel McLaren pulled one back with an excellent left footed shot. Cowdenbeath though added a third soon after. Right at the end of the second period Thomas Lowe scored a second for the young Bino's. Cowdenbeath though added another two in the third period for a deserved victory. This Sunday the 13's are scheduled to play Raith Rovers at home.

The under 15's entertained Dumbarton at Forthbank and ran out deserved winners. Shaun Johnston put the Albion one up befroe Dumbarton grabbed an equaliser. The Albion were not to be denied though and Alan Swords got them back in front and Shaun Johnston grabbed his second and the Albion's third. The team ran down the clock comfortably and Ross McGeachie added a fourth in the third period. The 15's are scheduled to head for Elgin this coming Sunday. Before that though they have been invited to Murray Park on Thursday evening to take on a Rangers age group select.

The under 17's continued their group matches in the Irn-Bru league Cup. Their results in their section have been disappointing after they have lost their first three games. This week though they found their form as they ran out comfortable 4-0 winners against Morton at Forthbank. In a game that the 17's dominated for large spells they took the lead when Andy Hunter scored the first of his two goals. befroe the half time break gary Morrison got his first goal. In the second half the team had to defend well to stop Morton getting back into the match. They weathered the storm and created a number of chances that they should have taken. Their persistance paid off when Andy Hunter grabbed his second and shortly after Gary Morrison also got his second of the afternoon. This weekend they travel to Glasgow to play Partick Thistle in their next sectional game.

The under 19's did not play this weekend but their Irn-Bru league Cup campaign gets back under way this Tuesday night away to Livingston. They will be hoping for a better performance than the one they displayed a few weeks ago in the home fixture against the West Lothian club. With two wins out of three they will be hoping for victory that will give them the chance to progress in what is a difficult section. This Sunday they are scheduled to play St Johnstone here on the Forthbank astro.

11th April 2009

Raise Funds for the Stirling Albion Youth Development via Irn-Bru

By sending a simple text you can raise funds for the Stirling Albion Youth Development. League sponsors Irn-Bru are running league tables for SFL teams in their present Divisions. The more texts a team receives they move up their league table increasing the amount of money they pay their Youth Developments. The maximum for the Second Division is £4500. At present the Albion are sitting in sixth position on £1500. All you need to do is the following

Text -  score 2 stir to 60777

And watch the club move up the table and earn money for the Youth teams. click on to the Irn-Bru Phenominalfooty website at

5th April 2009

For Under 15 player James Bremner it was a case of one minutes madness as he played in the SFA Youth Development game against local rivals Alloa, on Sunday.   Introduced as a sub in the third period with the game sitting at 1 - 1, James made a notable contribution with only a few minutes of play left. He progressed down the wing to deliver a cross into the box. The ball took a large bounce over the head of the Alloa keeper and with the help of Scott Jarvie it ended up in the net to give Stirling a very late lead. Moments later as he shielded the ball out of play, an opponent's push saw him tumble over and break his wrist in a nasty accident!

Sean Johnston had continued his goal scoring exploits of recent weeks to give Stirling Albion the early lead but Alloa forced themselves back into the game and for much of the second period looked more likely to add to their tally. However Stirling dug in and did not concede. Stephen Day headed in but a defender's clearance in the opinion of the referee kept the ball out of the goal. With no assistant to help it was an understandable decision but parents on the sideline claimed that the ball had definately crossed the line. Stirling in the end however got not just one break but two with Bremner's involvement. All at the club wish James a speedy recovery.  

The 17's travelled to play at Lesser Hampden in the Irn Bru League Cup but suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of the 'Spiders'. The team rallied in the second half only losing one goal in the second period but the damage had been done in the first period when they conceded five goals. Gary Currie got pass marks but otherwise it was a bad day at the office.  

The 19's team showed the 17's team what is required from them when they bounced back from a heavy defeat by Livingston to defeat Dunfermline on Friday evening at Forthbank. Having lost to Dunfermline in the league game and a recent friendly the boys showed real character when they took on their Fife opponents in the League Cup section game and came out on top as 3 - 2 winners.

A number of players were missing from the squad due to suspension, international duty or illness  so manager Allan Moore, who attended the game, allowed first team squad players Liam Corr and Johnnie Boyle to play in the match. Moore's attention must have been taken, however, by forward Ross McEwan who scored an excellent hat trick to add to goals in his previous two games. McEwan showed great pace and finishing ability as Stirling raced into a deserved 3 - 1 lead but the drama was far from over as the game reached the final quarter.

Centre back Don Morrison in attempting a goal  line clearance was adjudged to have pushed his opponent and as the last defender was sent off for denying a goal scoring opportunity.Morrison was unlucky but when Dunfermline scored from the spot kick it meant Stirling had to mount a strong rearguard action to secure their deserved victory.   Ross McEwan's hat trick was notable but there was no man of the match clearly evident as the entire team showed great courage to bounce back from their heavy defeat of last week. They have six points from a possible nine and can be pleased that they have got themselves back into contention for qualifying from the section.  

There are no Youth team games on the Easter week end but a four card programme awaits for next week end. On Sunday 19th April the 13's take on Cowdenbeath away from home while the 15's face Dumbarton at Forthbank. The 17's will be looking to get back on track with a home game to Morton while the 19's will have to dig deep when facing up to Livingston away from home.

29th March 2009

The under 13 team continued their progress through out the season with another great performance on Sunday at Clyde FC. The teams met only a few weeks ago and Clyde on that occasion proved to be the better team but on Sunday at Broadwood it was Stirling who continued their recent good form. In another great all round team performance keeper Liam Harper pulled off two fantastic saves as the young Binos scored three times through Greg Piscazio, Alex Cleland and Daniel McLaren.

 Stirling have introduced a number of trialists in recent weeks and while the coaches are delighted with the development of all the players currently in the squad, further trialists will be viewed in a game on Friday 10th April at Forthbank astro. Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor explained, ' We are delighted with the way that the team is now playing. As expected it took our young players some time to adjust to the demands of playing at Youth Initiative level. Now their performances are reflecting their progress and they are enjoying competing well and winning some more games. The results are not what matters but the confidence of winning games is important and the boys are now being rewarded for their hard work.

We are still looking to strengthen the squad for next season and out trial game next Friday will assist with that but, the boys currently involved I am sure will continue to develop.' 

The 15's team also performed with great credit on Sunday when the fought out a good 1 - 1 draw with Arbroath at Forthbank. This again marks an improvement on the previous result against their Angus opponents and the character displayed by the team was excellent on Sunday. They were in command for most of the game with good possession but could not find a goal to confirm their outfield superiority. Arbroath scored against the run of play at the start of the second period with a clinical finish. Stirling fought back however when a good through ball from Stephen day was flicked on by Scott Jarvie. Shaun Johnston beat his defender and struck home from 18 yards for a deserved equaliser. Both teams tried hard for a winner in the final, third period with the Arbroath keeper pulling off a fantastic tip over to keep the score at 1 - 1. 

On Sunday the 15 travel the short journey to Alloa to play at Recreation Park in a local derby game. 

Both of the younger teams performed with great credit at the week end and so too did the 17's who helped the Scottish Independent Schools' select with their preparation by playing them on Friday night in a friendly at Forthbank. The game finished 3 -3 and was a useful exercise for both teams although a strong and bitterly cold wind made play very difficult. 

On Sunday the team travelled to Greenock to play Morton and although they lost the game 2 - 0 the scoreline did not reflect the close nature of the game. A goal before the end of both periods sealed the result for Morton but team coach ally Breton was happy with the effort shown by all the players in what was a limited squad due ti injury and unavailability. 

The team now face Queen's Park away on Sunday in their next League Cup match. 

The 19's team were soundly beaten by an excellent Livingston team in their League Cup tie on Sunday at home. Beaten heavily by the full time club in the League fixture the team knew it would be tough and then lost a number of players to suspension and injury before Sunday's game. They did however capitulate fairly easy as poor defending allowed Livingston to race into an early 4 - 0 lead. Ross McEwan scored a clever goal from a good MacAdam through ball but all hope faded when Livingston scored a fifth almost immediately. In the end an embarrassing  8 - 1 defeat was endured and the team coaches will be looking for a suitable response on Friday night 3rd April when they meet Dunfermline at the Forthbank astro with a 7.15 ko.  

On a brighter note Thornhill youngster, Kenny Feaks made a brief first team debut on Saturday in the 2 - 0 win over East Fife when he replaced Andy Graham for the last five minutes. Kenny has battled back from a season of injury and has done well when training with the first team squad so well done to him on earning his debut. Kenny becomes one of well over twenty youngsters who have come through the ranks of the youth teams to represent the club in SFL fixtures over the last ten years.

The list includes players such as

Alex Williams, Stevie Nicholas, Iain Turner, David O'Brien, Jinky Wilson, Stewart Devine, Scott Christie, Paul Nugent, Chris Scotland, Sean Roycroft, Nathan Taggart and Liam Corr and fans will recognise the contribution that these young players and others have made to the club over the years.

COACHES NEEDED.

Stirling Albion Youth Development Programme is looking to expand next season and would welcome expressions of interest from enthusiastic, suitably qualified coaches to become part of their successful programme.

The club are looking for a coach who holds an SFA Youth Licence Certificate to head up the current coaching team and are also wishing to attract other coaches with the SFA Youth Level 4 award.

Further details on the job specification and on what the programme can offer successful candidates can be acquired by contacting Club Secretary, Marlyn Hallam on 01786 450399 who will then provide contact details for Stewart Taylor, Head of Youth

22nd March 2009

There was some debate at the end of the week end fixtures as to which was the best performance from the four Stirling Albion Youth teams involved in games.

The Under 13 team followed up their excellent performance at Raith Rovers with another great display against Queen of the South at Forthbank on Sunday. Playing in very blustery conditions the boys from both teams played a great game in a very sporting manner. Stirling dominated much of the play in the first period but conceded a goal minutes from the end of the period. 

This set back was however short lived as the team responded in great style. Daniel Mclaren fired in a powerful 20 yard shot following a great run to level the score. Thomas Lowe scored with a great 18 yard volley to put the young binos ahead and Chris Ogilvie swung in a corner that beat everyone to give the home team a well deserved three - one lead at  the end of the second period.  

Stirling continued to play some very entertaining football in the third period and young keeper Liam Harper pulled off a great save to keep Queens at bay as they tried to rally. 

The team continues to make progress with all the players making a worthwhile contribution in a very encouraging performance. Next week they will travel to Broadwood Stadium for a match against Clyde FC.

 In the earlier kick off on Sunday the 17's side started their League Cup campaign against Partick Thistle. Unfortunately the team produced one of it's poorest performances of the season and lost by 4 - 0.

This was most unlike the team with only keeper Darren Dolan showing any form. The team will try to bounce back with an away game at Morton on Sunday. Before that they will meet a Scottish Independent Schools' select team on Friday night at Forthbank astro with a 7.15 ko. 

The U 15 team faced a difficult away match on Sunday and earned a creditable draw away to Queen's Park. The game was goalless until the third period when Queen's scored to go ahead. Stirling have lost a number of games this season to late goals but this time it was them who showed some character to grab a late equaliser. Allan McKerracher scored a terrific goal bursting passed three defenders before crashing home into the roof of the net. Sunday sees the 15's meet Arbroath at Forthbank with a 12.15 ko 

When the draw for the Under 19 league Cup placed Stirling in a section with three full time clubs, St Johnstone, Livingstone and Dunfermline, the players and coaching staff were in no doubt how difficult it would be to progress - especially having had an enforced lay off from competitive football for nearly two months. 

However the team produced a great display and strength of character against St Johnstone last Sunday in an action packed affair. Ross McEwan was in blistering form and he put Stirling ahead in 15 minutes after a good through ball from Robbie Hurst. McEwan's pace carried him clear before he cleverly lobbed the advancing keeper. With half an hour to go Stirling were reduced to 10 men when Mark Miller was unlucky to be shown a red card for a deliberate trip. Mark was certainly guilty of a professional foul but with three other Stirling Albion defenders around the action it seemed unlikely that he had denied his opponent a goal scoring chance.

Worse was to come for Stirling but only after Craig Young had doubled their lead. Young was sharp to react to a goalkeeping error when the Saints keeper fumbled a McAdam shot in the 75th minute. 

When the referee blew to stop play in the Stirling box, everyone including St Johnstone players and coaches thought that Stirling had been awarded a free kick. Everyone was amazed when the ref pointed to the spot and then showed Gregg Munn a second yellow card for a shirt tug. Saints netted the spot kick and mounted a bombardment on the Stirling goal. Down to nine men for the last part of the game, Stirling produced a backs to the wall defence which saw them hold on to their lead for a great win and start to their cup campaign. Sunday sees them at home to Livingstone - the top league team in a game that kicks off at 2.15pm

15th March 2009

A full programme of games is scheduled for Stirling Albion Youths this week end - 22nd March as the Youth League Cup at U 17 and U 19 eventually starts. For the age groups complete League Cup dates check their fixtures page.

The 13's team will hope to build on last week's good performance against Raith Rovers with a home game against Queen of the South. This game kicks off at Forthbank astro at 2.15pm on Sunday. Last Sunday the boys performed very well and achieved a great result when they travelled to Kirkcaldy to play Raith Rovers. Raith started well and Liam Crawford made a great goal line clearance as the team finally found it's stride. Thomas Lowe scored a great goal when he controlled with a header then volleyed from 16 yards out to beat the keeper. Raith recovered in the second period and scored twice to take a lead. Before the end of the period Thomas Lowe latched on to a great Chris Ogilvie through ball to equalise. In the third period Lowe completed his hat trick with another excellent finish to end the scoring in an excellent game. Stirling defended really well and worked hard - form that they will hope to maintain against visitors Queen of the South.

The 15's played a friendly game against Ayr United and led 2 - 1 with goals from Steven Forbes and Sean Johnston. A late burst from Ayr saw them snatch two late goals in the third period to finish ahead. This pattern of losing late goals will be addressed before Stirling visit Queen's Park on Sunday.

The 17's team begin their League Cup campaign on Sunday against Partick Thistle at Forthbank astro with a 12.15ko and they will hope to get off to a good start in a league section which also includes Morton and Queen's Park.

The U 19's team have been placed in a 'Group of Death'  with opponents St Johnstone, Livingston and Dunfermline. Two of these teams finished in the top five in the league and with only one team qualifying from the league cup section a tough assignment has been handed out. The team begins with an away game on Sunday at St Johnstone.

8th March 2009

A very successful and enjoyable fund raising event took place for the Stirling Albion Youth Development Programme on Friday 6th March at Alex Smith's Millhall Restaurant. About 170 players, parents, family and club friends attended the Race Night and had a great evening's entertainment with an excellent buffet. With races being sponsored and all horses and most jockey places also being 'bought' the finance committee are hopeful that the final profit figure will approach almost £2k.

Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor said, 'We would like to thank all those who attended and the others who supported the event. It was a very good night that I think everyone enjoyed and the finance of course will go to meeting the costs of running our programme. We are already planning for next season when we may consider forming a new team to add to the four sides we already run. We are also giving serious consideration to an invite from Derby County FC who have invited our 13's team and our 15's team down to Derby for games at the end of the current season. Our young players also received a number of compliments for their behaviour at Friday's event - this is important so well done to them.'

Last week end again the 17's and the 19's teams were without a fixture as they await the start of the SFL Youth League Cup. It looks as though this will now start on the 22nd March - many weeks after the original proposed start date.

The 13's team took on a strong Clyde team at Forthbank on Sunday and lost 4 - 0 despite another good performance in most areas. Contending with absentees through injury and illness the team deserved something from the game but the performance was very encouraging as the team continues to play a stylish brand of football and individual players continue to develop. A more competitive edge is perhaps required but this can be developed in time to come while the coaching staff continue to develop more important elements of the youngster's game.

The 13's play away against Raith Rovers on Sunday with a 12 noon KO at Kirkcaldy High School astro.

At Under 15, the side travelled to Raith Rovers and went down 2 - 0. There was not too much between the teams with Raith perhaps a more physical outfit at the moment. Stirling are currently looking at the possibility of a few new additions to the squad but there is a definite feeling that the team has the potential of producing a number of very useful young players.

The squad travel to play at Ayr United on Sunday.

1st March 2009

The last time the 13's team visited the home of Queen's Park youths at Lesser Hampden they were on the receiving end of a heavy defeat. Last Friday they were once again beaten by a strong side but on this occasion performed with far greater credit. Indeed Stirling did not concede a goal until the 35th minute.

The final scoreline ended without Stirling scoring but the held Queen's Park to just four goals this time around. The team hopes to play a friendly this week end on Sunday at Forthbank and have invited Hearts to provide opposition.

The 15's side played youth team opposition on Thursday night when they beat Rossvale BC from Kirkintilloch by 6 - 1 at St Modan's HS.

Both the 13's and 15's assisted the SFA Coach Education programme on Sunday by acting as runners for the candidates being assessed for coaching qualifications. the players were both thanked and complimented on their skills and attitude on what was a long day at Stirling University.

The 15's face a difficult game on Sunday away to Raith Rovers at Kirkcaldy High School.

The 17's and 19's teams continue to await the start of the SFl Youth League Cup and have had to be content with arranging friendly fixtures meantime. On Saturday they played local amateur side Doune Castle with a mixture of 17's and 19's. The team recorded a 4 - 0 victory with goals from Gary Morrison and a hat trick from midfielder Craig Young. The next day the team travelled for a friendly against Dunfermline and suffered a 4- 1 defeat. Two games in two days proved a bit too much for the players but nevertheless it was a useful exercise to keep players involved in active matches. On Tuesday night the 19's were due to play Dunipace Juniors in a bounce match at Forthbank.

RACE NIGHT FUNDRAISER

The popular fund raising event Race Night takes place on Friday 6th March at Smith's Restaurant, Millhall. Tickets at £5.00 are still available including a buffet. Contact Graham Hamilton for details.  forthbanknews@tiscali.co.uk

22nd February 2009

Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor has complained to SFL chiefs about the delay to the start of the SFL Youth League Cup.The competition which follows the Irn Bru League at both Under 17 and 19's level is now due to start in mid March - almost two and a half months after the 19's team completed their league fixtures as scheduled on the 25th January.' We were told that the League Cup competition would not be delayed to allow clubs to play unfulfilled league matches but that appears to have happened. Our U 19 have clearly been penalised for playing their fixtures to the schedule put in place by the SFL. We will now go into the League Cup not having played a competitive game for over two months. The team continues to train and we have managed to organise a few friendly matches but it is not the same. I have not yet had a reply from the SFL about the delay.'

The Under 17 team looks as if it, too, will have a delay before its next competitive game. On Sunday they completed their league programme with an away defeat to Queen of the South. Gary Morrison scored from long range in a game that never really got going and the 17's team now finish in a mid table position in the 19 team league after a 2 - 1 defeat.

Unfortunately, on Friday night last week, Scott McLay suffered a serious injury when playing for the 13's against Livingston. Scott dislocated and broke his ankle in a serious accident and will be out for some time. Scott had scored for the young binos team in the game against Livingston in a match overshadowed by the accident. Livingston won the game narrowly by 2 -1. The best wishes of everyone at the club go to Scott for a speedy recovery.

On Sunday the 13's and 15's squad will help out the SFA by acting as runners at the SFA Coach Education Course at Stirling University. Candidates for the Level 4 Youth Award will make use of the Stirling Albion youngsters to demonstrate their coaching ability. Two Stirling coaches, Tom Ogilvie and Davy Adams are candidates on the course.

Two Stirling Albion Under 19 players have returned from a week's preparation in Cyprus ahead of the SSFA's Centenary Shield campaign for 2009. Gregg Munn and Michael MacAdam enjoyed a week of hard work in Cyprus although the warm weather they hoped for never really materialised. MacAdam spent almost the whole week working with the physio as he tries to shake off a badly sprained ankle injury. Munn played in both games against Aris Limmasol in a 1 -1 draw and a 2 - 0 defeat to an U 21 Dynamo Kiev side.

'It was a great week in which the team really came together. We now look forward to the centenary Shield matches' said Gregg who was also in the team last season.

The first of these games was due to take place in Belfast on Thursday 26th February.

15th February 2009

With the under 17's & 19's awaiting the start of their League Cup campaigns and the under 13's match away to Queens Park being postponed only the under 15's were in action today against Ayr United at Forthbank, although struggling for personnel due to injuries and late call offs coach Ian McConnell was only able to field 11 players.

In an evenly contested match, the visitors were slightly on top during the first of three periods although they never really threatened the goal. They did though go ahead three minutes before the end of the first period when goalkeeper Lewis Usher failed to hold a powerful shot and could only watch the ball cross the line. The second period saw the Albion get on top and midway through period Shaun Johnstone side footed home from a Winters free kick. Ten minutes into the third period Ayr went ahead once more when Usher failed to collect a ball and the referee pointed to the spot as an Albion defender fouled the Ayr forward. With seconds remaining though Shaun Johnstone grabbed his second after he nipped in between the Ayr keeper and defender to score and earn his side a deserved equaliser.

8th February 2009

With no scheduled SFL Irn Bru League fixture due, the Under 19 team took the opportunity of a friendly game against Arbroath FC on Friday night at Forthbank. The exercise proved worthwhile in keeping the team ticking over as they await the start of the Youth League Cup. Team coaches Dave Binne and Graeme Donald also took the chance to look at a trialist and four of the current Under 17 squad with a view to planning for next season.

Stirling made a bright start and after a few missed chances early on they took a deserved lead when full back Mark Miller burst forward to set up Mark Robinson in the box. Robinson's powerful left foot strike thundered home to put the Binos in front. Centre forward Johnnie Chalk was quick to react to a goalkeeping error to lob home a second goal soon after and the same player grabbed his second and Stirling's third before the break.

Arbroath then began to exert some of their physical strength into their play to stay in the game in the second half and although there were no further goals youngsters from the 17's team , Mikey Burns, Gary Currie, Andy Hunter and goalkeeper Darren Dolan all played well in the second period.

Next Friday night may see a game between the 17's squad and the 19's squad with forward planning for next season in mind.

The 13's team met Dumbarton on Sunday and gave a good indication of their excellent improvement since the start of the season. Beaten quite easily in the first game of the season and then again in a closer game between the teams before Xmas, Stirling played some great football in a well contested match on Sunday. Trialist Ian McIntyre scored after his first attempt was blocked but Dumbarton equalised soon after. Chris Ogilvie fired the young team in front with a great left footed shot from the edge of the box after a good lay off from Scott McLay. Dumbarton took command of the second period and came from behind to take the lead. Before the end of the second period Stirling equalised with a great move which started in the left back area, saw play transfer to the mid field and then out to the right wing before Liam Blair's excellent cross was knocked home by Ian McIntyre scoring his second goal.

In the third period Greg Pascazio, who was excellent through out, headed goalward and the Dumbarton keeper allowed the ball to deflect up from his hands on to the crossbar and behind him into the net.

Stirling played a controlled game for the rest of the match, passing the ball well and finishing the game on top. Chris Ogilvie worked tirelessly and Daniel McLaren

This week they were schedules to meet Queen's Park away, this match has now being postponed.

One unfortunate outcome from the game against Dumbarton was the injury sustained by trialist, Craig Hepburn. Having made a good start to the game Craig fell hurting both his wrists. A visit to hospital revealed a fracture in both wrists so the unfortunate youngster now has both arms in plaster. Everyone wishes him a speedy recovery from the injury.

The 15's side was away against Clyde FC and against strong opponents they put up an excellent performance. Shaun Johnston scored a spectacular 35 yarder just before the end of the first period to put Stirling in front.

The team held on until midway through the third period before conceding two late goals but the performance from everyone was very encouraging. Next week they meet Ayr United at Forthbank with a12 15 ko.

The 17's team met Airdrie United at Forthbank last Sunday and could not believe that by half time they were 4 - 0 down in the SFL Irn Bru League game.

Stirling were creating a number of good chances but could not seem to convert while the Airdrie team with fast and strong forwards displayed great skill on the break away. Centre forward Scott Solly had bagged a hat trick before half time and it looked as though Stirling might suffer an embarrassing defeat. In the second period however the team showed some character with goals from Ross Gallacher with a very composed finish and Gary Currie with a superbly hit shot making the scoreline 4 -2.

Stirling did make a few more chances but could not manage to close the gap in the scoreline any further but they at least restored some pride to their performance.

Their final League game is against Queen of the South on February 22nd before their League Cup campaign gets under way.

Under 17 Keeper Attracts Interest.

Stirling Albion's Under 17 keeper, Darren Dolan has been attracting the interest of Rangers Football Club with a run of great form in recent weeks.

Rangers contacted the Youth Department to ask if Darren could play a trial for the Glasgow team and attend training with them. The weather affected the training but Darren did play last Tuesday in a trial game and did well. Rangers will continue to monitor his progress as Darren continues his progress with Stirling under the guidance of goalkeeping coach Dave Eccles. 'Stirling Albion were happy to give Darren this chance and this recognition should boost his confidence. I am sure that he will keep working hard to develop his game in the coming months and we will see what happens in the future' said Eccles who has successfully worked with the development of Ian Turner , Scott Christie and of course Myles Hogarth.

Off To the Sun

Stirling Albion's two Scottish Schoolboy selects are off to Cyprus for a preparation week ahead of the Centenary Shield campaign for the British Championship.

Midfielder Michael McAdam who is working hard to recover from a badly sprained ankle and defender Greg Munn who is selected for this second season in the International squad are part of the 18 player squad that flies out next Friday for a week in Cyprus.

Stewart Taylor, Stirling Albion’s Head of Youth is the Team Coach and Dave Eccles is the Goalkeeping Coach with the squad.

Taylor said, 'We have had three preparation friendlies so far and things are taking shape. The week in Cyprus will help us prepare for the important International games. We start against Northern Ireland in Belfast on Thursday 26th February and finish with a game against England at Saint Mirren's new stadium in Paisley just after Easter - a game that will be televised by Sky TV. The boys from Stirling Albion will, I am sure, benefit greatly from this experience and so to will the club, hopefully in the future.'

1st February 2009

With both the 17's team and the 19's team out of action over the week end the spotlight fell on to the two younger teams who were involved in playing re - arranged Youth Development Initiative fixtures.

The 15's team were in command of their game against Cowdenbeath until the last fifteen minutes of play in the third period. With a few trialists on show the Binos were leading by 2 - 0 with goals from Alan McKerracher and Craig Duncan, however they slipped up to allow the Fifers to surge past them with three late goals. On Sunday they meet Clyde at Broadwood Stadium in what will be a difficult match. A few more trialists may be involved in this match. Coach Davy Adams will begin sitting his SFA Coaching Award at Level 4 over the coming week - end. 

The 13's team were involved in an excellent game against Queen of the South at Forthbank on Sunday in a demonstration of everything good about Youth Initiative football. Queen of the South were a very good side and they started very strongly from the kick off. They found Stirling's young keeper Liam Harper in excellent form, however and Stirling settled to play some good passing football. 

The home team went ahead when Greg Pescazio headed home a glancing header from a corner kick. In the second period, Thomas Lowe scored to increase the Stirling lead after good work from Alec Cleland before Queen's hit back with a quick counter. Thomas Lowe made the scoreline 3 - 1 in favour of the Binos with his second goal but again the Doonhamers hit back with a penalty and then an equaliser in the third period.

Stirling were not to be undone, however, and a minute after losing the equalising goal Scott McLay scored after a great move to put them ahead again. Stirling meet Dumbarton at Forthbank astro next Sunday with a 12.15 ko. Coach Tom Ogilvie will also attend the SFA Coach Ed course at Level 4 but new coach Kevin Hepburn will be in attendance and a few trialists may also take part in the game. 

Although they had no fixture over the week end a number of U 17 and U 19 players were involved in mid week games. Manager Allan Moore had a look at seven of the 19's team on Tuesday in a Reserve team win against Bathgate Thistle. All of the players did well and the manager was pleased with their contribution. On Wednesday night four U 17 players joined the 19's team who played against a Scottish Schoolboy International team in a preparation for their upcoming Centenary Shield campaign. Gregg Munn was in the Scotland team as was Michael MacAdam who unfortunately missed out on playing as he recovers from a badly sprained ankle. Youngsters Danny Ashe and Andrew Pender played the full game while Ross Gallacher and Gary Morrison played as substitutes. Pender scored as did Johnnie Chalk and Billy Wilson in a 3 - 3 draw which was of benefit to both teams. 

The U 17's play Airdrie on Sunday at Forthbank astro with a 2.15pm ko in a re - arranged SFL Irn Bru League match and the 19's are hoping to fix up a friendly for Friday night as they await the start of the Youth League Cup.  

Long Standing Servants Leave 

Three long standing servants of the Youth Department have left the club having been involved for five years since joining Stirling Albion FC as 14 years olds.  

Stevie McIntosh, Colin Jess and Magnus Neilson will be too old to play Under 19 next season and there was no prospect of them being involved in the near future at first team level. 'We have reduced the size of the U 19 squad to give those still with us and some of the 17's team a chance to make their mark,' said Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor. 'Stevie, Colin and Magnus have been great servants for many years and are excellent in their approach to the game but it doesn't look like there was going to be a long term place for them at the club. This early release means that they will hopefully get fixed up with another club soon and we have already had a fair bit of interest. We would all like to thank them for their efforts over the years on our behalf and wish them every success in the future both within and outwith football.'

Also leaving is Under 13 Coach, Blair Cremin. Blair started as a youth player with Stirling Albion in 1998 and made it into Ray Stewart's first team squad before sustaining a serious injury. He returned to the club four years ago and has developed as an excellent young coach. Blair has left to join Falkirk and we all hope that Blair does well in future.

28th January 2009

Stirling Albion U-19's with a few under 17's in the side took on the Scottish School Boys side in a friendly match on the astroturf at Forthbank. In an entertaining match bot side played excellent football in a 3-3 draw.

25th January 2009

The SFL Under 19 Irn Bru Youth Division for the Under 19 team ended in a disappointing defeat to Dumbarton on Sunday at Forthbank. This was possibly one of the poorest displays from the team all season and will shape the selection of the squad for the remaining fixtures in the Youth League Cup which will commence soon.

Stirling had been urged to make a sharp start after losing early goals to Alloa last week but they fell behind  again early in the match. Keeper Danny Cawley may have been fouled as he came out to punch clear a free kick but no award was given and the Dumbarton forward guided his effort into the net to give the visitors an early lead. Worse was to come for the Binos five minutes later when a free kick from the edge of the box took a slight deflection to find the net. Cawley would have been disappointed despite the deflection not to stop the shot.

Before half time however, Stirling did show some character and pulled themselves level.

Firstly, Ross McEwan from what looked close to an offside position broke through on the Dumbarton goal. His clever lob beat the keeper to get Stirling back in the game. Two minutes later, after 19 minutes play, it was 2 - 2. Johnny Chalk showed good awareness and determination to force home a header which brought the equaliser.

Unfortunately with the game there to be won, Stirling's second half performance was really poor. Don Morrison was caught in possession at the half way line and Dumbarton scored to go 3 -2 up early in the second half. After that Stirling struggled to gain control but other than a header tipped over the bar by the visiting keeper they never really looked like scoring. A fourth goal put the game out of doubt and when Kenny Govan was shown a red card for retaliation a bad day at the office was completed. Govan had his leg kicked away off the ball which the referee did not witness and his reaction brought the red card.

The team will now await the arrangements for the SFL League Cup but it is likely that the club will look to the future and, sadly, perhaps have to say farewell to some players who have been with the club some time but who will not be retained.

The Under 17 team in the early kick off at Forthbank produced an excellent performance and result against a good Dunfermline side. Beaten last week end narrowly by 1 - 0 to Clyde it was Stirling's turn to sneak a late victory.

In an even game with both team creating chances it was keeper Darren Dollan who kept Stirling in the game with a string of excellent saves. Most were at the feet of on coming forwards and his decision making and good handling certainly saved what looked like certain goals lost.

Stirling did play some very good football but their chances seemed to have come and gone before midfielder Ross Gallacher found the net from 18 yards with only minutes to go.

The team are still in the top six of a very competitive league. They have two re - arranged fixtures to play against Airdrie and Queen of the South before they too embark on the SFL League Cup competition.

On the fund raising side for the Youth Development team, the arrangements are now progressing for the Race Night event scheduled for Friday 6th March at Smith's Restaurant, Millhall courtesy of Mr Alex Smith. Race Sponsorship at £50.00 per race is still sought from any interested business or individual and of course the chance to buy a horse or become a jockey still exists. Anyone interested in finding out how they can support the fund raiser should contact coachstaylor@aol.com.

Fixtures for the Under 13 and Under 15 teams in the SFA Youth Development Initiative start back on Sunday 8th February. The 13's are at home to Dumbarton while the 15's make the short trip to Broadwood for their game against Clyde.

18th January 2009

The Under 17 Stirling Albion side met Clyde FC on the Forthbank AstroTurf on Friday night in an SFL Irn Bru under 17 Youth Division fixture which saw the Broadwood side secure a 1 - 0 victory in a well contested match.

Both keepers were in top form with Stirling's Darren Dolan pulling of two excellent saves one high to his left, the other low to his right. These saves kept Stirling in with a chance in a game which saw both teams cancel each other out for much of the time.

A rash challenge at the edge of the box gave the visitors a free kick opportunity from which they scored what turned out to be the winning goal mid way through the second half. Stirling finished strongly and the Clyde keeper brought off an excellent reaction save from Andy Hunter's late headed effort. Erik Doig then glanced a header wide when a full header would have brought a certain equaliser almost on full time. The 17's meet Dunfermline on Sunday at Forthbank with a 12.15 kick off.

The Under 19 team made the short journey to Recreation Park for their derby game against Alloa but put in a very disappointing show losing 3 -1.

The Stirling team found themselves two goals down after four minutes. Poor defending at a corner allowed Alloa to score after two minutes. Then a short headed back pass provided an opportunity for the Alloa forward to nip in to round goalkeeper Cawley to make it 2 -0 after only four minutes. The team did rally and when Liam Corr struck home a well placed drive from 18 yards there was a real possibility that they would recover from the dreadful start. Alloa though scored before time up to wrap up all three points.

With a fully fit squad to pick from it would be no surprise if coach Graeme Donald makes changes for the final league game against Dumbarton at Forthbank on Sunday at 2.15pm. The team also plays a Scottish Schools' FA select at Forthbank on Wednesday night and will then begin preparation for the SFL Youth League Cup. Playing for Scotland will be Michael MacAdam and Gregg Munn who jet out with the Scotland team in mid February to Cyprus for preparation ahead of the four Home Internationals in the Centenary Shield.

The SFA Youth Initiative fixtures for the second half of the season are yet to be issued so both the 13's and 15's team are ticking over by arranging friendly fixtures. The 15's squad are looking to strengthen the team in the future with next season in mind. They lost to Renfrew Victoria but only had 11 fit players for the game with 4 youngsters out injured. Next week they meet Hamilton Accies in a friendly away from home with the likelihood of trialists being involved.

The 13's met Drumchapel Amateurs on Sunday and ran out easy winners. There were goals from Thomas Lowe, Scott McLay, Chris Ogilvie, Fraser Wilson and a hat-trick from one of the four trialists who played. The performance and goal scoring will have boosted the team confidence as they look forward to the second half of the SFA fixtures.

16th January 2009   SAYD RACE NIGHT

The Stirling Albion Youth Development have arranged there annual fundraising Race Night.

The night will take place on Friday 6th March at Smiths Restaurant, Kerse Road, Millhall, Stirling at 7pm for 7.30pm.

The cost of entry includes an excellent buffet

Adults £5

Family ticket £12 (please state at time of ticket purchase how many are in the family ticket)

Races are available to Sponsor at £50

Horses and Jockey's are available to buy at the cost of £10 and £5 respectively.

All are welcome in what proves to be an entertaining evening.

For tickets at present contact Graham Hamilton at forthbanknews@tiscali.co.uk

11th January 2009

The blustery, wet conditions of last week end saw one fixture from the Youth Programme cancelled when the proposed friendly game for the under 15 squad against Falkirk FC fell foul to the weather. The 15's will play Falkirk on Sunday at Forthbank at 12.15 in a re arranged game. Three matches did however take place with pleasing results and performances the outcome.

Into injury time against a decent Ayr United team who sit third top of the SFL Irn Bru Youth under 19 Division, it looked as if the Stirling Albion team would come away with nothing to show for a good performance. That was until centre back Willie Whitford popped up in the stoppage time to ram home a deserved equaliser. Mark Miller and Mike McAdam worked an opening on the wide left and when Ayr United failed to clear the cross it was Whiteford who pounced to gain the 1 - 1 draw and reward the team for going right to the end.

Stirling had settled best after a scrappy start in difficult conditions and they were playing some fine football. However it was Ayr who notched the game's first goal with a well struck wind aided shot from the edge of the box by Aaron Scoular. McAdam almost responded for the Binos with the first attack which saw him one on one with the keeper. His low shot beat the keeper but hit the post. In the second period Stirling made a number of chances although keeper Cawley made a great save to keep the scoreline at 1-1. Johnnie Boyle who was looking very good in his creative play finished poorly on two occasions to miss good scoring chances.

Dave Binnie and Graeme Donald made positive substitutions introducing Johnnie Chalk and Robbie Hurst but it did not look like Stirling would gain any reward for their excellent play until Whiteford struck with almost the last kick of the game.

The next game for the 19's is away to Alloa on Sunday with an 11.00am kick off at Recreation Park. With a fully fit squad, competition for a place in the team is tough and all the players are looking forward to the derby match against Alloa.

The game that took place earlier in the day at Forthbank astro was played in even worse conditions but the Under 17 team showed good resolve in beating Montrose in their Irn Bru U-17 SFL Youth Division game. With the wind in their favour Stirling opened the scoring with a well struck shot from Craig Stewart. This rounded off a good breakaway move which saw the visiting keeper make a save and a defender clear off the line before eventually Stewart fired home.

Darren Dolan made a spectacular save high to his left from a long range effort to keep Stirling in front but eventually the Angus side grabbed an equaliser with an in swinging corner which was scrambled over the line.

Moments later however Stirling regained the lead when Gary Morrison chased a Stewart through ball and pressured the defender into losing possession. His shot was parried out but fellow striker Erik Doig was on hand to knock in the loose ball to restore the home team's lead. The win sees Stirling maintain their top six position in a very competitive 17 team league. Next week they visit Clyde.

Last Friday the 13's kept ticking over with a friendly game against Riverside BC. The young Binos won 4 - 0 with goals from Scott McLay, Thomas Lowe (2) and Alex Cleland and they will play another friendly against a side from Drumchapel at 2.15 pm on Sunday at Forthbank. The only disappointment from Friday was the unfortunate injury to Keiron Campbell whose broken bone in a foot will see him out of action for a number of weeks. Everyone wishes him a speedy recovery.

2nd January 2009

Happy New Year from all involved in the Stirling Albion Youth Development Programme.

The Xmas shutdown is almost over with the players and coaches of all four teams anxious to get back into action after the festive season.

The Under 19 team last played on 20 December when they met Arbroath in a re-scheduled Irn Bru SFL Youth Division fixture. In a fine performance, the side won 3 - 0 with Stevie McIntosh claiming the first goal after 12 minutes. Craig Young combined well with Michael McAdam for an excellent break away goal before half time and the same player added a well hit volley in the second period to secure a good victory. Keeper Danny Cawley just returned from illness performed well and the return from injury of centre back Kenny Feaks gave the defence a stronger look

Youth player Johnnie Boyle was mystified after 15 minutes when he was substituted given that he was performing well and had set up the first goal from his corner kick. Manager Allan Moore had requested the youngster's services to cover on the first team bench for the game against Queen's Park. Although he did not feature in the Forthbank game the youngster did make his first team debut in the victory against Arbroath at Gayfield on December 27th. Congratulations on this achievement.

The next fixture due for the 19's is on Sunday 11th January with a home game against Ayr United at the Forthbank astro with a 2.15 pm kick off.

The 17's side were due to meet Queen of the South in Dumfries on Sunday 4th January with a pitch inspection being made on the Saturday to determine if the game would go ahead. Their next game at home sees Montrose visit Forthbank on Sunday 11th January with a 12.15ko.

The 15's team was disappointed on Friday 19th December when Milton Star from Lesmahagow failed to turn up for the arranged friendly game at Forthbank. There are two friendlies planned for the 11th and the 18th January against premier league Falkirk FC before new fixtures will be issued by the SFA for Youth Development Initiative fixtures up until May.

The 13's team played a younger age group Dundee United squad on Sunday 28th December in what was an excellent match. Goals from Fraser Wilson and Thomas Lowe gave the young Bino's a deserved 2 - 0 lead before a polished Dundee United team came back with two goals of their own.
The 13's have a planned friendly against local Riverside Boys Club on Friday 9th January at 7.00pm


STIRLING ALBION YOUTH PLAYERS EARN INTERNATIONAL CALL UP.

Two of the current Stirling Albion FC Under 19 Youth squad have been selected to represent the Scottish Schools' FA International squad for the coming season which starts with a warm weather training week in Cyprus in February.

Gregg Munn, a pupil at Larbert High School was in the squad last season and was again successful in gaining selection in defence following the final trial day held in Stenhousemuir just before Xmas. The other player selected is mid fielder Michael McAdam from Balfron High School who joined the Stirling team in August from Livingston FC. McAdam who opted to stay on at school despite an offer of full time football at the West Lothian club has made a significant impact since joining Stirling at the start of the season and he has no regrets about his decision.

Following preparation friendlies against Queen's Park ,Stirling Albion and Ayr United the 18 man squad will fly to Cyprus in February for a week long warm weather training camp. Games away to Northern Ireland and Wales are either side of a game against the Republic of Ireland at Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh.
The team then goes to Turkey for preparation before meeting England at the new Saint Mirren Stadium in Paisley.
Last season Liam Corr captained the schoolboy team and was joined in the squad by Don Morrison, Magnus Neilson and of course Gregg Munn. It is a superb reflection of the Youth Development programme at Stirling that two further players have earned selection this season. A third player, Jamie Wilson was unlucky not to be fully fit for the final trial day which effected his performance. Jamie must now wait his chance of a possible late call up if injury hits any of the selected squad.

Another local player joins the Albion players in gaining selection for an exciting season. James Stevenson, a pupil at St Mungo's High School is signed at Alloa FC and best wishes go to all the boys for a successful international schoolboy season.

20th December

The under 19 side caught up with their game against Arbroath which was postponed a few weeks earlier. They ran out comfortable winners by 3 goals to 0. Details will follow shortly. The youth teams are no on the Christmas break and will begin again after the New Year.

14th December

Stirling Albion Youth Development would like to give a big thank you to the customers of Sainsbury's and the local management team of the Stirling store for their generous contributions and help with a fund raising bag packing day on Saturday 6th December. Over £1.5k was collected by the players of the 13's and 15's teams at the Back o' Hill store. This was a great effort and will go towards meeting transport, facility hire and equipment costs for the teams.   After a blank week end because of frost last week all four Stirling teams were back in action on Sunday 14th December. The Under 13 team had a worthwhile friendly game against a younger Falkirk team at Forthbank. Thomas Lowe scored twice and Scott Mclay added a third as the teams contested a well played 3 -3 draw which was beneficial to both sides. The mid winter break now starts for the young side but coaches Blair Cremin and Tom Ogilvie intend organising a few more friendly games just after Xmas.   The 15's met Premier opposition in a friendly fixture on Sunday when they took on Motherwell at Forthbank. Last week against a 14/ 15's Kilmarnock team they lost narrowly but they were put to the sword by the powerful and useful North Lanarkshire team. The team concludes its 2008 fixtures with a friendly game against Milton on Friday night at Forthbank at 7.00pm.   The 17's team visited an Alloa team in top form on Sunday and lost four goals in the first period to trail 4 - 0. Alloa were very direct and scored three goals with similar over  the top through balls which were finished in clinical style by their fast front men. The fourth goal followed a bad defensive error. The team received a stern half time talk and at least responded with a much better defensive performance in the second half. Stirling created a number of half chances and could have scored on a number of occasions but failed to find the net although they did not concede any further goals. On a positive note, leg brak victim Danny Ashe made a welcome return  to the team having made a speedy recovery from his unfortunate injury in August.   The 19's team faced the long journey North to play Elgin on Sunday. In the middle of a mid season slump the team managed a 1 - 1 draw to end a run of recent defeats. The 19's will play Arbroath on Saturday 20th December on the astro at Forthbank with a 2.00pm kick off.   A note for your diary for a popular night lined up by the Youth Fund Raising Committee. On Friday 6th March, the popular Race Night will take place at Smith's Restaurant, Millhall. Ticket prices and details on how to sponsor a race or buy a horse on the race card will follow soon after the Xmas break.   A big thank you once more goes to all the parents, individuals and companies who have offered their support to fund raising efforts with the sponsored walk, the recent Sportsmens' dinner and the bag packing day at Sainsbury's.Your contributions are much appreciated.   Have a great Xmas and a happy 2009!

30th November

The message from those involved in the Youth Development Programme at Stirling Albion FC is always to take every opportunity to develop ability in the game we love and that, if you are lucky, the chance always exists to have another opportunity to improve your game.

The young players in the Under 13 team certainly seem to have taken the message to heart if evidence from the last week end is to be considered. Beaten heavily at Lesser Hampden by a strong and gifted Queen's Park side on Sunday 23rd November the boys could have been excused for approaching their game against Livingston on Sunday with some trepidation. However, showing the quality of character they were urged to show, the team produced their best performance since starting to play together in August. Only one goal seperated the two teams - a penalty scored by Stirling's young centre back Greg Pascazio during the second period of a very tight game, but coaches Blair Cremin and Tom Ogilvie were delighted by the courage shown by the team to bounce back from their experience the previous week. Well done to all the boys involved - not for the result but for the manner of their play. The team faces a visit to Dundee at the week end to meet another strong challenge from the Dens Park youngsters.

The fifteens team have faced some frustration in recent weeks with games being postponed through no fault of their own. The scheduled fixture against Cowdenbeath could not take place last week end but coaches Ian McConnell and Davy Adams arranged a friendly against Premier League opposition, Dundee United who brought a mixed age team of 14's and 15's. The Dundee side proved a bit too strong in a game played on Saturday afternoon, but after a slow start Stirling held their own in a game well worth the effort made to give the team a game. Sunday sees them travel to Dumfries for a game against Queen of the South.

The 17's team missed out on their game against Queen of the South when snow on the Forthbank astro could not be cleared on the morning of Sunday 23rd. Despite this frustration the team remained focused for their away game against a strong Ayr United team last week end. The team produced a great result winning 2 -1 with two goals from Andy Hunter securing the points in a hard fought win. The defence showed the same resolve as shown against Stenhousemuir  a fortnight ago in winning 2 - 1 and keeper Darren Dollan again performed well behind a determined defence and hard working mid field. The team hold a top six position in the Irn Bru Youth Division and coaches Ally Breton and Murray Falconer have urged the players to maintain the high standards which have put them in a very creditable League position. Next up is Airdrie United on Sunday at 12.15pm on the astro at Forthbank.

The 19's have had a difficult time in recent weeks with games against strong sides testing them to the full. Last Friday they met Dunfermline and lost 4 - 1 - a scoreline that did not really reflect how close the teams were. Sunday saw them take on Airdrie United at Forthbank and they again could not secure any points , losing 2 - 1 to Airdrie . Johnny Boyle netted a penalty but losing goals from set pieces seems to be a major weakness at the moment. The players will be working hard under Graeme Donald and Dave Binnie to sort this out before the week end when the team take on Arbroath with a 2.15 ko on the Forthbank astro.

The Fund Raising Committee would like to thank the individuals and companies who supported a very successful Sportsmens' Dinner on Saturday 22nd November. Speakers, Tommy Walker and Willie Young were a big hit as compere Tony Higgins ensured a great night was enjoyed by over 160 guests. MSP Bruce Crawford showed his support and a good sum of money was raised to support the Youth Development Programme. Donations, raffle prizes and auction goods were most welcome as locals showed their support for a programme that offers over 80 young players the chance to develop towards senior grade football.

Congratulations also go from the Youth Department to those involved in the Young Reds programme which earned its SFA Quality Mark award last Saturday. The opportunity and willingness seems to exist to put in place and develop the pathway for players to come through from the youths to first team football.

23rd November

Little action in the Youth leagues this weekend due to the inclement weather. The only side to play were the Under -13's who travelled to Lesser Hampden to take on Queens Park. Unfortunately they were defeated by an excellent Queens Park side. The Under 17's match at Forthbank was postponed due to snow on the Forthbank astro and the Under 15's home match was also postponed v Ross County as the team from the North were not able to travel due to the weather conditions in the Highlands.

Last night saw the Youth Developments Sportmans Dinner which was a great success and we will report more on that at a later date. Also on the fundraising side the Under 13's and 15's will have a bag packing day at Sainsbury's on the 6th December from 9.30 till 5.30.

16th November

The beautiful, crisp weather of Sunday 16th November would do little for those who argue for a move to 'summer football' and the youth teams at Stirling Albion FC enjoyed the games in which they were involved although results perhaps did not go entirely as hoped.

The 13's team took on Dumbarton FC at Forthbank in the first of the reverse fixtures and were hopeful of a good performance. This they got in many ways but it was Dumbarton who showed a better edge to their finishing.

Stirling dominated play in the first period but failed to convert their outfield superiority into a goal. In the second period Dumbarton scored twice when marking at corner kicks was disappointing from the young Binos.

Dumbarton scored again in the third period but Fraser Wilson did notch a goal in a team performance which showed a bit of character after falling behind.

The young team continues to improve and there were excellent performances from a number of players, particularly Greg Piscasio in the centre of defence. Next week (23rd Nov) is an away game against Queen's Park and then the team take on Livingston at home the following week.

The fifteens team seem to have turned their season around following a friendly game in late October against a young Rangers FC team. With their confidence boosted and still high following a number of good performances, Stirling played away from home against Livingston and scored five times in a very hard working performance.

Goals in the first period came from Scott Ferguson and Stephen Day. Ryan Hunter and Stephen Day with his second goal, added to the Stirling lead in the second period. Striker Shaun Johnston on a good scoring streak netted in the third period in a game in which keepers Andy Duncan and Lewis Usher who shared the time only conceded a single goal.

Next fixtures for the 15's include a home game at Forthbank on the 23rd Nov against Ross County with a 2.15 kick off and then an away trip to Cowdenbeath.

The Under 17 team travelled to nearby Ochilview to play Stenhousemuir in the SFL Irn Bru Youth Division match. Following successive defeats to St Johnstone and Ross County, the team was anxious to get back to winning ways and they produced a very good performance in beating a young Warriors team 2 - 1.

Gary Currie score an excellent goal when put through on a long ball. Gary cleverly lobbed the advancing keeper to score. Moments later Gary Morrison was unlucky not to do the same with an effort which just went over the bar.

Stenhousemuir equalised in the second period with a well struck free kick. Keeper Darren Dolan would be disappointed not to get something behind the shot but his performance through out was otherwise very

Stirling Albion responded well to losing an equaliser and following good work by Andy Pender and determination in the box from Andy Hunter it was Mikey Burns who netted  from Hunter's cut back to secure a well deserved victory. There were again a number of excellent individual performances. The team travel to Ayr United next Sunday before meeting Airdrie at home the following week.

The 19's team were in action at Lesser Hampden against a very strong Queen's Park outfit. The result saw Queen's retain their table topping challenge with a convincing 4 - 1 victory. Coach Graeme Donald however suggested that there had been some positives from the tough fixture despite the disappointing result.

 ' Willie Whiteford returned from injury to play for the first time this season and did very well. His excellent goal as well as a clever performance at centre half was encouraging. Robbie Hurst returned to form in midfield and Johnnie Boyle worked at the required level up front without managing a goal. We were missing a number of players for a game against good opponents'

Youth centre half Don Morrison has decided to rejoin the club following a short stay in Texas. With his parents now living and working in Houston, Don went over to try his luck on the US college soccer scene. He enjoyed his time but the lure of Stirling Albion will see him return to Scotland to continue his studies. A Scottish Schoolboy internationalist last season alongside Liam Corr, Don hopes to make the same breakthrough to first team football in the coming months. The 19's next take on Dunfermline FC in a game that takes place on Friday 21st November at Forthbank Astroturf with a 7.15 ko then they travel to Airdrie United on the 30th November.

Four of the Stirling Albion under 19 youth team are still hopeful of selection at International Schoolboy level. Following games with the Forth Valley Schools' FA  team, the four -  Gregg Munn ( capped last season), centre half Jamie Wilson, mid field player Mikey McAdam and forward Johnnie Chalk will take part in a West of Scotland trial looking to make it through to the final trial. The first date is Tuesday 2nd December with the final trial due at Ochilview on the 17th December.

Good luck to the boys as they try for selection in the International schoolboy team.

10th November

None of the Youth teams were in action this weekend. The only side due in action were the Under-15's who were scheduled to entertain Elgin City, the Highland side though called off due to shortage of players on the Friday before the match.

Just a reminder of the up coming Sportsman's dinner due to take place on Saturday 22nd November. The details are as follows

Speakers are Tony Higgins (Compare), Tommy Walker and former referee Willie Young

Taking place at Stirling County Rugby Club at 7.30pm. A three course meal followed by the after dinner speakers. There will also be an auction with some excellent items up for grabs along with a raffle also.

Costs are £30 per person or £25 per person for a table of ten

For tickets contact

Stewart Taylor at  coachstaylor@aol.com

Ian Henderson at  ianhenderson4950@yahoo.co.uk

3rd November 2008
Mixed fortunes were the order of the day on the first week end of November for the four youth teams at Stirling Albion. With Forthbank unavailable it was necessary to switch games to Stirling University for the three home games that started at 11.00am and finished at 5.00pm - quite a shift for those involved!!
 
The 13's team had cause to celebrate with their best performance of the season when taking on the youngsters from Cowdenbeath FC. Mid fielder Danny McLaren notched an impressive hat trick with two long distance efforts and a tap in and there were further goals from striker Liam Ure with two and Thomas Lowe with an 18 yard volley. Chris Ogilvie also netted as the defence and keeper Liam Harper achieved their first clean sheet of the season.
It has been a difficult introduction to Youth Initiative football for the boys involved but they and coaches Blair Cremin and Tom Ogilvie have worked hard at improving. Well done!
 
Following the excellent performance of the youngsters, two SFL  Irn Bru Youth League games followed but did not produce the desired performances from either the Under 17's or the Under 19's.
The 17's lost 4 -2 to a Ross County team who , although never giving up , could have been beaten. Stirling scored through Andy Hunter but lost an equaliser within minutes. Gary Morrison scored to retore the lead but the performance deteriorated from there on in and the final result was a big disappointment to the players and coach Ally Breton.'After a run of good results this was a disappointment but we will just have to work hard in the next few weeks to maintain our very respectful league position.'
 
The 19's team was always going to have a tough challenge in taking on Raith Rovers who have a number of full time players, a few of whom have first team experience. Raith were indeed a very strong, physical team but Stirling coped well with this . The team lost a poor goal after 30 minutes with a through ball which caught out the central defense and keeper Caldwell. The response was, however, excellent and from a very good Mark Millar free kick, Mikey McAdam headed a deserved equaliser.Raith went ahead before the interval when once again confusion in central defence led to an own goal.
The second half was a big disappointment with defensive errors allowing the visitors too many easy chances and the mid field and forwards not looking like adding another goal.
Raith finally ran out 5 - 1 winners.
The result still means that Stirling maintain a top six league position but a run of difficult fixtures in the next few weeks will test the team's resolve.
 
 The 15's team played away against Dumbarton FC and after confusion about the venue for the game the boys ended up playing at Dumbarton's Main Stadium pitch. In a close encounter, youngster Craig Duncan notched two goals in the final period as the defense kept a clean sheet,meaning the boys fully enjoyed their game on the 'big pitch'
 
None of the teams were in action on the week end of 8th / 9th November. The only fixture due was the 15's home game against Elgin City FC but the team from the North called off on Friday having problems with player availability.
 
The fixtures for the week end start with a game for the 17's away to Stenhousemuir on Friday night at Ochilview with an 8.00pm kick off. The 13's will look forward to the visit of Dumbarton to Forthbank with a 12.15 ko scheduled on the astro.
The 15's travel to Livingston while the 19's face a difficult challenge away to Queen's Park.
 
Youth Under 19 striker Stevie McIntosh has agreed a short term loan period at local side Sauchie Juniors. The Junior side have a problem with injuries to front players and the Binos have agreed to help out and at the same time give a young player an opportunity to sample play at the Junior level.
 
Squad photos taken recently are available to purchase now and players/ parents/ fans should place their photo order on the return slip provided by Co-ordinator Stewart Taylor.
On the fund raising front the Sportsperson's Dinner is drawing close with some tickets still available for purchase - see the seperate flyer for details of what is sure to be a great night.
A bag packing day at local store, Sainsbury's, is also due to take place on Saturday 6th December.

27th October 2008
Boosted by a succesful visit in mid week when the Under 15 team played a Rangers under 14 side and performed very well with Shaun Johnston netting the only goal, the young Stirling Albion team took their good form into the SFA YDI game against Alloa Athletic on Sunday at Forthbank.
In easily their best performance of the season playing some excellent football, Shaun Johnston scored an excellent hat trick displaying pace and a cool finishing ability. There were excellent goals also from Jack Brisbane who hit a great strike from the edge of the box and Scott Jarvie who headed in after great build up play by John Bilsland.
The defence kept a normally dangerous Alloa attack in check all match only conceding one goal as each player contributed to a very good team performance.
Next week the team travel to take on Dumbarton FC and will hopefully continue the progress of recent weeks.
 
The under 13 team travelled all the way to Dingwall to play Ross County. Underfoot the conditions were fine but the overhead conditions were pretty horrendous. Alex Clelland , a graduate from the Young Reds development programme, netted his first goal of the season and Chris Ogilvie scored from a free kick but Ross County edged the game by two goals.
The young team now take on Cowdenbeath at Stirling University next Sunday with an 11.15 ko.
 
The 17's side before Sunday's clash with table toppers St Johnstone were lying in joint second position in the SFL U 17 Irn Bru Youth Division. Five minutes into the second half they were all square at 2 - 2 and were holding their own against the full time Saints outfit that looked very good.
Unfortunately the team lacked the self belief to go on and win the game and surprisingly conceded four goals to lose 6 - 2. Andy Hunter had scored a great goal from an Erik Doig cross ball to equalise an early penalty kick. Minutes after equalising the Binos conceded again to be behind at half time. A great long range strike from Matt Johnstone pulled the home team level again just after half time but the power and fitness of the league leaders carried them home comfortably in the end.
The 17's have made an excellent start to the season as their league position confirms and they will hope to return to winning ways with a home game aginst Ross County next Sunday at Stirling University with a 1.15pm KO.
 
The 19's also confirmed their potential when they recorded a win away to Morton on Sunday.
Played in very difficult wet and windy condition all the goals in the game came in the first half. Ross McEwan scored a clever first goal but Stirling allowed the home team to equalise soon after.
Fortunately McEwan netted his second goal before the half time whistle and the team were strong enough to retain their lead in the second period. Stand in keeper Alistair Caldwell made a great save down low to protect the narrow lead and give Stirling their second league win in a row to stay in touch with the top of the table.
Keeper Danny Cawley is recovering from glandular fever and is back in training but Kenny Feaks has suffered a reoccurence of a bad ankle injury and will be out of the game against league leaders Raith Rovers which takes place next week on Sunday at Stirling University at 3.15pm.
 
A reminder to all fans about the fantastic Sportsmens Dinner lined up for the 22nd November. Guest Speakers Tony Higgins, Tommy Walker and Willie Young will undoubtedly provide top entertainment at the Stirling County Rugby Club and tickets can still be reserved by contacting coachstaylor@aol.com or ianhenderson4950@yahoo.co.uk
 

20th October 2008
On another rain soaked Sunday all four of the club's Youth teams were involved in fixtures as the season continues to progress.

At Forthbank the under 13 team played Clyde in a 12.15 kick off and despite missing a few players still on holiday the team performed well.
In a close first period with the elements in their favour Stirling dominated the play with some excellent passing moves but lost a goal after an avoidable defensive error.
In the second period they fell further behind with Clyde making better use of the strong wind and scoring two long range efforts.
Stirling Albion finished the third and final period on top with goals from Daniel McLaren and Scott Mclay in responce to Clyde's single third period goal.
The youngsters face the long journey north on Sunday when they travel to play at Ross County.

The second game at Forthbank on Sunday gave the 19's team a chance to bounce back from their Youth Cup exit at the hands of Dundee. The Binos met an East Stirling team who have been going well in recent weeks and they performed very well to earn a comfortable 3 - 0 win in the Irn Bru Youth League fixture.
Coach Graeme Donald said, ' During the week dave Binnie and I decided to give one or two players who have not featured recently a chance to start this game. The changes paid off and the team performed really well to gain a good victory. Competition is strong for a starting spot and with some of the youth players doing well when training with the first team during the week we are looking to progress up the league and give Manager Allan Moore a few more players to consider for first team selection.'

Stirling Albion went ahead against the Shire in a fortunate manner having started the game well. Ross McEwan fired in a cross from the bye line which was headed home by a despairng East Stirling defender attempting to clear the danger.
The combative Falkirk side then lost a player when he needlessly struck a Stirling player as they lay on the ground following an innocuous tackle.
Before half time Scott Younger turned in a close range effort from a Stevie McIntosh shot to put the Albion two nil up. Younger and fellow Bannockburn team mate , Kenny Goven were doing well in central mid field and left midfielder Craig Young was showing how much he was missed in last week's cup tie with an energetic , skilled performance.
Stevie McIntosh showed good composure to net a third goal after ten minutes of the second half as the East Stirling players stood and claimed for an offside decision that did not arrive.
Triallist keeper Mike Penn had little to do with a back four of Munn. Feaks. Wilson and Robinson always looking in command.
The next fixture for the 19's is away to Morton and the same application and attitude is what is expected from a side who appear to have a good deal of potential.

The 15's team travelled to Arbroath for their YDI match but were disappointed with their performance in difficult, windy conditions and on a pitch that was not really suitable for promoting good play. Arbraoth were two up from an early point and although Stirling did rally it was Arbroaths more direct approach which won the day.
The 15's have a great opportunity on Tuesday 21st October when they have been invited to play a Rangers' team at Murray Park.The players will be keen to make the most of this opportunity before turning their sights on local opponents Alloa who visit Forthbank on Sunday at 12.15 pm.

Pride of place over the week end goes to the 17's team who earned a great away result in the Irn Bru Under 17 Youth Division, defeating Raith Rovers 5 - 2 away.

Erik Doig opened the scoring for Stirling and Mid fielder Andy Pender made it two nil soon after. Raith hit back with a goal scored from a corner kick that was was not well defended but Pender made it 3 - 1 before half time.
In the second period Andy Hunter and Danny McDonald scored while Raith could only reply with one goal. Keeper Darren Dolan made a number of fine saves through out the match as Stirling produced yet another excellent result. The team have now won six of their league fixtures and have drawn one and lost only one fixture.
Next Sunday will see them face a real test when they meet the league leaders, St Johnstone in the 2.15 pm ko off game at Forthbank astro.

Tickets are now available for purchase for the Youth Development 's major fund raiser.
The Sportsmens Dinner at Stirling Rugby Club on 22nd November will feature top after dinner speakers, Tony Higgins, Tommy Walker and renowned referee Willie Young. The entertainment will be first class as will the food and tickets can be reserved either by contacting coachstaylor@aol.com or ianhenderson4950@yahoo.co.uk.

Tickets are £30.00 per individual but if you can organise a table for ten or more a discount price of £25.00pp is available.
We are hopeful thet fans will support this fund raising event to ensure the continued development of the Youth Programme which over the years has turned out players like Alex Williams, Iain Turner, David O'Brien, Jinky Wilson, Paul Nugent,Stewart Devine, Sean Roycroft, Nathan Taggart, Scott Christie and most recently Liam Corr.

13th October 2008
Last week end was an exciting one for the four Youth teams at Stirling Albion but ultimately proved to be a disappointing one when the Under 19 team lost to a full time Dundee squad in the Second Round of the SFA Youth Cup. Manager Allan Moore praised the team for the way that they played but unfortunately all their good possession did not bring a goal and the team lost 2 - 0. Young Under 15 keeper Andy Duncan was called upon when a difficulty arose in playing stand in keeper Alisdair Caldwell. The youngster did well and could not be faulted for any of the goals so well done to him. Brightest outfield player was Liam Corr. Unfortunately despite about fifteen corners and numerous cross ball opportunities no one could find the net and the team were left disappointed in the result.
On Sunday the team play East Stirling in a re - arrange league fixture that kicks off at Forthbank Astro at 2.15pm. The 19's then play Morton away and Raith Rovers at home.
 
The other three Stirling Albion teams took the chance of a blank SFA fixture week end and arranged to play against oppositon from Celtic FC.
None of the teams recorded a win but nevertheless the players and coaches benefitted from playing against top opposition.
At Forthbank the 15's lost 5 -2 in the end but looked ok against a good side. Stirling won the last period 2 - 1 which was just what the coaches asked for and the boys will take some confidence from this. They play Arbroath away on Sunday and are looking forward to the trip.
The 17's lost to Celtic by 4 - 0 at Garscube in Glasgow but again there were some good individual performances with Michael Burns catching the eye. The 17's travel to play Raith Rovers in a tough fixture this week end as they try to maintain their excellent start to the season which sees them in the top four of the Irn Bru U 17 Youth Division.
 
The young 13's team were handed a lesson from an excellent Celtic team at Barrowfield with the home team running out comfortable winners. The young binos are still finding their feet in their first season at pro initiative level and the experience of playing Celtic would let them se the standard to which they must aspire.
Sunday's fixture for the 13's is home , at Forthbank Astro , against Clyde with a 12.15 ko.
 
On the Fund Raising note the Youth Department are delighted to inform fans of the 2008 Sportspersons Dinner planned for 22nd November at Stirling Rugby Club, Bridgehaugh. Top speakers are lined up, Tony Higgins - ex player and PFA Secretary, comedian Tommy Walker and legendary referee and after dinner speaker, Willie Young. Good food and entertainment are guaranteed. Individual tickets are £30.00 but if interested a table for ten guests or over is available at the discount price of £25.00 pp. For further information contact either Stewart Taylor at coachstaylor@aol.com or Ian Henderson at ianhenderson4950@yahoo.co.uk

6th October 2008
With the Under 19's fixture against East Stirling being subject to a late cancellation when the Falkirk club inadvertently organised an alternative event and the 13's game against Queen of the South falling victim to the heavy rainfall of Saturday only two games took place this week end.

The 15's team and the 17's both met Queen's Park at Forthbank in the sunshine of Sunday afternoon.

The fixture between the 15's and Spiders was a close affair but the Stirling coaches were disappointed that the team could not better their performance. Sean Johnston scored for Stirling but Queen's Park managed an equaliser.

Congratulations are due to coach Ian McConnell who recently passed his SFA Level 4 Coaching Certificate. Ian and Davy Adams are trying to arrange a friendly for next Sunday as there are no scheduled fixtures.A fixture against either Rangers or Celtic is a possibility  The following week the team visit Arbroath.

The Under 17 team recorded yet another excellent result in the SFL Irn Bru League when they defeated Queen's Park in the second Forthbank fixture on Sunday.
In a tight encounter Gary Morrison headed home the only goal of the game from a well constructed move and for the second week in a row the defence achieved a shut out to pick up all three points. Stirling have now won both their games since the disappointing result to Dumbarton three weeks ago and are sitting close to the top of the table. 

There is no scheduled fixture for the 17's but a fixture against a Celtic side is a possibility for Sunday.

The 13's game against Queen of the South cancelled due to a flooded field may be re - scheduled for Sunday 12th October. Failing that fixture taking place again the possibility of a game against Celtic is being considered.

The Under 19 team will play Dundee in the Scottish Youth Cup on the main stadium pitch at Forthbank on Sunday 12th October. Chairman Peter McKenzie has agreed to the game being played on the grass surface and with Manager Allan Moore in attendance the team will be anxious to put on a good show.

The Annual Sportsman's Dinner for funds for the Youth Department is now being organised. The night, on 22nd November, is once again being held at Stirling Rugby Club at Bridgehaugh. Details on who will be entertaining guests and on prices and ticket availability will be available soon.

Hopefully local businesses and the team supporters will consider the purchase of a table for what is fast becoming a most popular annual event. 

29th September 2008
The performance of the week end came from the players in the u 17's squad when they bounced back from a disappointing defeat against Dumbarton to beat Partick Thistle away from home at Beith Junior's Bellsdale Park in the Irn Bru Youth Division.With coach Ally Breton attending an SFA coach education course, Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor took charge of the team and the players responded with a great performance against a strong Partick team. Striker Eric Doig pressurised the home full back into an early mistake then rounded the keeper before scoring in the first minute.

Stirling then defended well with keeper Darren Dolan dealing with everything in a competent fashion and those in front of him fighting for possession at all times.
A strong second half start from Partick was contained and gradually Stirling started to play a controlled passing game. When Andy Pender scored from 16 yards out Stirling assumed full control to record a fine win. Greig Murray and Mat Johnstone were excellent in defence but all players, including all the subs who all played, made a great contribution. Next fixture is a home game to Queen's Park on Sunday 5th October at 2.15pm ko at Forthbank Astro.

The 19's travelled to Dingwall for their league fixture on Sunday but suffered a second consecuitive 2 - 1 defeat, this time against Ross County. Once again after a slow start Stirling found themselves two goals down after only five minutes.The £650.00 spent on luxury coach travel seemed to be money down the drain but the team then produced some excellent play to totally dominate the game. Michael MacAdam pulled a goal back but despite hitting the post or crossbar on four occasions the Binos couldn't find a second goal.Next Friday night ( 3rd October) at 7.15pm the 19's will take on local rivals East Stirling in the Irn Bru Youth Division fixture at Forthbank and on the Sunday 12th October they will face Dundee in the second round of the Scottish FA Youth Cup.

On a positive note there were six of the current U 19 squad involved in first team reserve action against Auchinleck Talbot at Forthbank last Tuesday, Callum Scott and Mark Miller played the full 90 minutes in the full back positions while Jonathan Boyle played up front and scored an equalising goal. In the second period Michael MacAdam, Craig Young and Jonathan Chalk got an opportunity. All the boys did well and earned some praise and encouragement from manager Allan Moore.

The Under 13 team, with a few triallists on show were involved in a good match against Raith Rovers at Forthbank on Sunday. In a good display Tommy Hall scored with a header from a Chris Ogilvie cross to give the Binos a deserved lead but Raith hit back to equalise. The Fifers edged ahead in the third period but the display from Stirling was again an encouraging one. Next week they travel to Dumfries for a game against Queen of the South.

The 15's had no SFA Youth fixture so instead played Renfrew U 15's in a well contested friendly. The Renfrew team came out on top on this occasion so the Stirling side will be looking for an improvement in performance in their next fixture against Queen's Park on Sunday at Forthbank at 12.15pm.

The players from the younger two sides took part in an excellent fund raising day on Saturday when they walked from Bonnybridge Sports Centre to the Falkirk Wheel and back on a sponsored walk. The boys had lunch at Smith's Restaurant then were present at the first team match against Peterhead. A half time collection from fans brought in £262.00 so grateful thanks go to those who contributed. The boys had a great day and will hopefully bring in their sponsorship money to contribute to the costs of running the programme. Don't forget that any fan who wishes to support the Youth Development programme can do so by getting in touch with Head of Youth, Stewart Taylor.

22nd September 2008
Last weekend proved to the most disappointing of the season so far for three of the four teams involved in the Youth Development Programme at Stirling Albion. With all four teams having made considerable progress until this weekend the performance of three of the four teams was sub standard with only the U 15 team producing the type of performance hoped for by coaching staff.

On Friday night the 15's played Raith Rovers at Forthbank and played very well in an entertaining game between two well matched teams.In their best display of the season the young binos fell behind to a penalty and lost a second soft goal before rallying  with a Shaun Johnston shot tipped onto the bar and a missed header by Stephen Day. In the second period Stepen Day rounded of a great move latching on to Steven Forbes's excellent through ball to squirm one over the keeper.Keeper Andy Duncan kept Raith out at the other end
 In a well contested third period both teams went close with Stirling edging the play but unable to score again. The 15's have no game this weekend but will train on Sunday instead.

The 13's competed well in the first period of their match away to Dunfermline. Greg Piscasio hit both the bar and the post and drew two good saves from the Fifer's keeper but Stirling couldn't score. As in recent weeks the team let themselves down a bit in the second period with Dunfermline opening up a comfortable lead. Mid fielder Chris Ogilvie scored from a long range free kick but the team failed to show the same fighting qualities shown in recent weeks.
Next week Stirling face Fife opposition once more in a game against Raith Rovers at Forthbank astro on Sunday at 2.15pm.

The 17's team also turned in their worst performance of the season to date when they lost to Dumbarton in the SFL Irn Bru Youth Division.
The team lost an early goal at a corner kick but soon replied when mid fielder Gary Currie was on hand to score from a corner at the opposite end. A free kick was then deflected passed keeper Darren Dolan and then he and full back Craig Stewart were part of a mix up which saw Dumbarton go 3 - 1 up. Before half time the home team lost a fourth goal and the potential for an embarrassing scoeline loomed large.
The team performed better in the second half and when Grant Fraser headed home a neat header it was hoped that a comeback might materialise. However this never happened and the Stirling team suffered an unexpected 4 - 2 defeat. The 17's play away on Sunday against Partick Thistle at Beith Juniors ground with a big improvement required from the players.

The 19's having made a good start to the season were in place to continue their progress but performed poorly against Montrose on Sunday. Having started well and dominated possession Stirling lost a soft goal at a corner kick and then conceded a penalty when a defender was deemed to have held an opponent at a corner kick. Down two nil, the team should still have been capable of getting something from the game and this was confirmed when Craig Young crashed in a shot five minutes before the interval.
The expected comeback however fizzled out and when second half substitute Robbie Hurst was red carded for two yellow card offences, it was Montrose who took the points.
An away fixture against Ross County is next on the cards this week end and the team will hopefully recover from the setback against Montrose and get back on the rails ahead of their second round SFA Youth Cup tie at home to Dundee on 12th October.

This coming Saturday you will see in the crowd the players from the U 13 and U 15 Youth teams who will have made their way back from the annual fund raising sponsored walk. The players will have walked from Bonnybridge to the Falkirk Wheel and back along the canal bank  - if performances don't improve they may well end up in the canal!!
The boys will have lunch at Smith's Restaurant before they come along to the game.A half time collection will be taken so please give generously.

15th September 2008
Stirling Albion's two younger age group teams have found the going pretty tough in the SFA Youth Development fixtures played in recent weeks but although winning results have been hard to come by the performance of the teams at Under 13 and Under 15 levels has continued to progress

The 13's have met Queens' Park, Livingston and, on Sunday 14th September, Dundee in their last three games. Against more established teams, the newly formed Binos side has lost out mainly in the third period after holding their own for the first two periods of each game. Against Dundee Greg Piscasio and Liam Blair scored equalising goals in the first period which finished level at 2 - 2. Dundee went ahead winning the second period 1 - 0 and then, as Stirling tired from the terrific efforts made for the first hour, the visitors ran out comfortbale winners.
Coaches Blair Cremin and Tom Ogilvie are encouraging the boys to overcome the disappointment of these early defeats as the long term progress of the player's development is the object of the programme. Next week will again prove to be a tough assignment as the team travel away to play Dunfermline FC.

Local business woman, Pauline Thomson has given the team a major boost by pledging the support of her new company Albion Property Services Ltd as a game ball sponser for the 13's home games through out the season. Also owner of the popular Albion Bar, Pauline was happy to give her support to the youngest Binos team. 'This is where the players of tomorrow can develop and I am delighted to support the youngsters in their efforts'
For information on the property letting development of her company visit www.albionfactors.com

The 15's team have found a win difficult to come by suffering defeat at the hands of Ayr United, Dundee and Dunfermline. The team has been ahead in two of these games but has been unable to hold on to the lead. The performance on Sunday away to Dunfermline was disappointing other than two good goals from Ryan Hunter and Scott Ferguson but the other games have been encouraging in terms of player development despite the lack of a winning scoreline.
A home game against Raith Rovers is next up for the 15's at the Forthbank Astro most probably with a 12.15ko on Sunday 21st September.

The older age group teams have both made impressive starts to their respective SFL Irn Bru Youth Division fixtures.
The 17's have added to their opening day victory against Stranraer with wins away to East Stirling and Livingston and a draw at home to Morton. Their only reverse this season was a narrow defeat to Dundee.
Also on a positive note is the speedy ongoing recovery of leg break victim Danny Ashe.
Pick of the team performances so far in a great start to the season has to be the away win at Livingston when the team came back from being two goals down to record a great 3 - 2 win with goals from Currie, Pender and Doig.
Next fixture due is home to Dumbarton FC in a game likely to be scheduled for the Forthbank Astro on Friday 19th September at 7.00pm.

The Under 19 team have produced some excellent play but with some mixed results from their early season fixtures. The team has suffered with injury to players in central defence and the unfortunate illness of goalkeeper Danny Cawley. Hopes are that the big keeper will recover soon and return to the action.
Manager Allan Moore attended the most recent performance of the 19's and was well pleased with the players on view as they defeated Clyde FC 5 - 2 away from home. So pleased was he with new signing Johnny Boyle that he signed th youngster on a pro form after good reports and seeing him score two great goals against Clyde.

The other goals in that fine win came from Johnny Chalk also making a big impact, Ross McEwan and Criag Young.
Following an opening day win against Cowdenbeath, the 19's have beaten Partick Thistle and Clyde and drawn against Dundee. Their only loss was to an extremely strong Livingston side who lead the league title race comfortably at this early stage.

With a bye last week in the first round of the SFA Youth Cup, the team eagerly await their next game which is against Montrose FC at the Forthbank astro on Sunday 21st with a 2.15pm ko.Boosted by the match winning goal scored by youth team graduate Liam Corr in last week's derby win against Alloa the young players under the charge of Graeme Donald and Dave Binnie are keen to press for involvement at first team level.

29th August 2008
The Stirling Albion under 13 side were in action again on Friday evening at the Forthbank astroturf when they entertained Queens Park in the SFA Youth Development League. The side is still gelling together as a unit but played some impressive football on the evning but it was not enough to avoid a 3-0 defeat. The first period some loose play allowed Queens to take the lead when they lost the ball in midfield and although a last minute challenge by the Binos left back but the ball fell to the Queens forward who slotted the ball home. In the second period the Albion youngsters dominated the play but could not take advantage of the numerous chances they created. They were hit by the sucker punch when Queens went further ahead from a free kick and again after some superb play on the right by the Queeens No7 which saw his cross put away from 6 yards. The third and final period was fairley even and no further goals were scored.

29th August 2008

The newly formed Stirling Albion team at Under 13 level , who have just begun their SFA YDI fixtures, are looking for sponsorship to help meet the running costs of the programme.

Sponsorship is a critical component of a successful sports programme. A quick look at the partnership of O2 and Premiership Champions Arsenal and the importance of sponsorship can be easily understood. Because of O2's sponsorship, Arsenal made a number of remarkable sports achievements. Stirling Albion's Under 13 level team will surely achieve a level of competition if its sports programme pushes through.

One of the new ideas is for local businesses or individual fans to sponsor the match ball for Youth games. The £25.00 donation would assist with the purchase of equipment, facility hire and coach hire.

Local Electrical Contractor from Cowie, Andy Rogerson has literally started the ball rolling by sponsoring the ball for the home game against Queen'sPark Fc due to be played on Friday 29th August at the Forthbank Astro. Andy can be contacted on 07795567353 and he is delighted to be the first local businessman to offer his support. Thanks, Andy.

If you would like to make a similar offer of support then please contact Stewart Taylor at the club.

24th August 2008
Stirling Albion Young Reds are delighted to announce that youngster Alex Cleland has been signed by SAFC Youth Development Initiative Under 13s. Alex becomes the first graduate to Youth Development level from our Young Reds Scheme and in particular the FVFDA Development squads.

Steven Leiper, Young Reds Co-Ordinator said, "To have produced our first Youth Development player after only one season participating in the FVFDA structure is a real achievement by Alex and his former coaches Willlie Maxwell and Norman McLay.

When we started our FVFDA teams last season we stated that one of our ambitions was to offer our players the opportunity to progress along the pathway to the SAFC Youth Development Initiative structure and the success we have had with Alex proves we are delivering against that ambition."

Everyone involved with Young Reds and Stirling Albion FC wish Alex all the very best in the Youth Development Initiative and we will all follow his progress there with interest.

24th August 2008
UNDER 19'S SUFFER AT LIVINGSTON AND UNDER 17'S WIN AT THE SHIRE

With two wins from two matches in the Irn Bru SFL Youth Division, the 19's team went to Livingston at the week end hopeful of a result but came down to earth with a bump when they were soundly beaten by an excellent home team. Stirling caoch Graeme Donald said, ' That is the best team we have met in three seasons. They were stronger, faster and technically better than our own team. We tried hard but were well beaten by a better side.'

In a seven nil defeat, the Stirling team found their full time opponents too hot to handle even with a good goalkeeping performance from stand in keeper Aistair Caldwell who made a number of good saves. Regular keeper Danny Cawley has spent a few days in hospital with checks for glandular fever being carried out. Best wishes to Danny for a speedy recovery. Next week could prove as difficult for the Binos as Dundee provide the opposition -  another full time outfit to contend with. The game will take place at Forthbank at 2.00pm. 

The 17's collected three points from their third Irn Bru SFL Youth Division game at East Stirling. Stirling scored twice in the first half hour with goals from Derek Currie and Andy Pender and were always in command without hitting the heights themselves. With six points from a possible nine the team look forward to their game next Sunday at home to Morton with an 11.15 kick off on the Forthbank astro. 

The SFA Youth Development initiative fixtures kicked off on the 24th August and both Stirling teams turned in performances that give encouragement for the coming season.

The 15's team met Clyde at Forthbank and played out a hard fought 1 - 1 draw against strong opposition who held the upper hand in last season's fixtures. Triallist , Ryan Caw scored a good goal following good build  up involving Ryan Hunter and Shaun Johnston. Clyde deservedly equalised with fifteen minutes to go.Stirling have strenghthend their squad and the new players settled well with those retained from last season.Next week the team travel to Ayr United for an away fixture. 

The newly formed Under 13 team played their first YDI game and performed really well away to Dumbarton. The team lost by four goals but the play produced was of a good standard. There was some excellent build up play and on another day goals would have been scored. Keeper Liam harper did wellas did central defender Keiron Campbell. In midfield Chris Ogilvie was the pick while up front Scott Mclay was unlucky not to net on a few occasions.

Next week the team meet Queen's Park in a game likely to take place on Friday night at the Forthbank astro at 7.15pm.

10th August 2008

UNDER 17'S AND UNDER 19'S GET THEIR SEASONS UNDERWAY

After a hectic summer of trials and pre season friendlies the Stirling Albion FC Youth programme got underway on Sunday 10th August with two games in the Irn-Bru SFL Youth Divisions at Under 17 and Under 19 levels. Results were extremely positive but were, unfortunately, achieved at a price as young Under 17 player , Danny Ashe sustained a serious injury in the game at Stair Park against Stranraer. In an unfortunate accident Danny broke his leg and everyone in the Youth set up wishes him a speedy recovery.

The 17's have recruited a few new players and had pre season games against Falkirk FC, an American touring team, Stenhousemuir FC and Civil Service Strollers before travelling to Stranraer for their first competitive fixture. After travel difficulties ( the hired coach broke down!) the team put all their woes behind them and earned a great 4 - 1 win with a hat trick from Andy Hunter being the main highlight. Garry Currie netted a penalty. The boys coped well with the loss of the injured Danny Ashe and made a very good start to the season. Their next fixture is on Sunday 17th August with a home game against Dundee FC on the Forthbank astro at 12.15.

The Under 19 team have attracted a few new recruits and are still finalising their final player pool. Schoolboy Under 18 Internationalists Mark Miller and Jonathan Boyle have joined the club and a series of friendly games have helped the preparations for the new season. The team have played Uphall Amateurs, Cambusbarron Amateurs, Rangers FC u 17's and Tullibody U 19s.

Their first Youth Division match on Sunday 10th was away to Cowdenbeath - a bit of a bogey team. Craig Young netted in the first minute and again in the 37th minute before Johnny Boyle slotted a penalty away on half time. Up 3 - 0, the team disappointed in the second period, allowing Cowdenbeath to score with a last minute penalty as they took the foot off the gas much to the annoyance of coaches Donald and Binnie. The team cannot afford this in the future and will be well warned before taking on Partick Thistle on Sunday at Forthbank with a 2.15 kick off.

The under 15 team have had three friendlies against Gairdoch, Rossvale and Falkirk FC and should be ready for the start of their season on Sunday 24th August with a game against Clyde at Forthbank. They too have a number of new signings currently being prepared by Ian McConnell, new coach Davy Adams and Roddy Grant.

The new Under 13 team, following extensive trials, is almost 'there' with coaches Blair Cremin and Tom Ogilvie hoping to finalise their squad by the week end. Over 70 players turned up for trials and games and coaching sessions have given the players a chance to earn themselves a chance in the Youth Programme. First game for the debut team will be away to Dumbarton on the 24th.

13th June 2008
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME - Are You Good Enough?
Stirling Albion FC is offering the opportunity to talented and committed young players to try for a place in the Youth Development Programme for next season and are giving the chance to players to attend assessment sessions which will be held on WEDNESDAY 2nd JULY and SATURDAY 5th JULY at Forthbank Stadium Astroturf.

Qualified coaches will be available to assess the suitability of players for a place in the programme which involves participation in the SFA Youth Development Initiative.
Players born in 1996 can try out for a new Under 13 age group team reporting at 5.45pm for a 6.00pm start.
Players born in 1994 can try out for the Under 15 team. Players in this age category should report at 7.15pm for a 7.30 pm start.
Saturday’s session will commence at 10.00am.
Contact the club (tel. 07989 454 991) with your details if you would like the opportunity to develop your game towards senior level.
Note : If you are registered with a club currently you must ask for permission to attend the trial.

Monday 19th May 2008
The curtain finally came down on the Stirling Albion Youth season when the Under 16 team played a re-scheduled match on Sunday at Forthbank against Clyde FC
 
Despite playing well and having much of the possession the Binos missed two good chances for the first goal and paid the price when a long kick out from the Clyde keeper evaded all the home defence for forward Steven Howarth to net. Goalkeepers kick and one touch later the ball was in the Stirling net - not good defending!
 
Just before half time a similar effort made it 2-0 to Clyde when Danny MacDonald could not match the pace of the visiting forward who went on to beat keeper Dollan.
 
In the second period Stirling continued to play some decent football but had Dollan to thank for a few good blocking saves. Substitute Andy Hunter had a shot on goal which was parried by the Clyde keeper and Gary Morrison was on hand to knock in the rebound.
Unfortunately Stirling could not manage an equaliser and even more unfortunately striker Gary Morrison was shown a red card for retaliation after a clear and deliberate elbow to his face for which his opponent was also ordered off.
 
All youth players at the club were invited to attend an end of season social event at which the club were able to recognise their hard work through out the season.
Last Saturday the 19's had a night at the ten Pin Bowling in Stirling while on Sunday the 14's opted for a morning at the go karting in Larbert. On Tuesday night the 16's and 17's will conclude their season's activity with a Bowling night.

Thanks are also due to the team coaches for all their efforts through out the year

Central Scotland Police has donated £500.00 to the Youth Development programme at Stirling Albion.
The donation gratefully received will go to meet costs and Youth Development Co-ordinator , Stewart Taylor was delighted at the gesture.'Central Scotland Police recognise the work of our programme which as well as trying to develop talented footballers is also trying to develop our young players as sensible and responsible citizens. This is important to the club and it's great that the local police force acknowledge this.'
 
Season 2007 - 08 may be over but plans will swing into action soon for the coming season. Details for trials at the Under 13 age level ( players born in 1996) will appear soon while trials at 15's level ( 1994)and 17's level ( 1992) will also be offered to a few players for next season.

Monday 12th May 2008
Corr Shakes On It.
Manager Allan Moore has persuaded teenager Liam Corr that his future lies with Stirling Albion and the youngster from Doune has shaken hands on a deal that will see him join the first team squad for the start of the new season.
There was interest from a number of clubs following Corr's successful season for the Bino's in the SFL Youth Division and his exploits as the captain of the Scottish Schools' FA under 18 International team. However, the local player, who hopes to study at Stirling University next session, is keen to make his mark in first team football with the club he joined as a 13 year old.
Youth Co-ordinator Stewart Taylor said, ' The coaches who have worked with Liam over the last four years always reckoned he had what it takes to push for a first team spot. Liam now has the chance and we are all confident that he will take that chance.'

14's Win Final Match of First Season.
It is never easy coming into the SFA Youth Initiative at Under 14 level as many teams have already had a season's experience behind them. However the new Stirling Albion team formed in August 2007 can look back on the season just finished with pride at the progress they have made.

The hard work of the boys and coaches Ian McConnell and Graham Watson has not always been reflected in results - there have been more defeats than victories - but the team collectively and as individuals has learned fast and done well over the season.
Sunday saw the team play their last official SFA Youth Initiative fixture against Dumbarton and the boys grabbed a last minute winner to finish the season on a high note.
Mark Sharp claimed the first goal in the opening 10 minutes although a big deflection from a defender probably contributed to his goal following a great pass from John Rooney.
Steven Forbes, playing on his hometown pitch in Alexandria played a great ball through for Paul Rodgers after 20 minutes. The Stirling striker controlled with a great first touch and slotted home for a great goal and a two nil lead.
Dumbarto came back in the second period and scored to reduce the deficit. When the home team scored from the penalty spot with 10 minutes to go it looked as though the Stirling youngsters had let a win slip from their grasp. Fortunately in the last minute of play from a corner on the right Gianluca De Luca fired in a great shot which looked net bound. Jack Brisbane got his head to the shot to make sure it beat the Dumbarton keeper to give the Bino's a deserved win.

The club are looking to strenghten this squad with a few signings during the summer. Notice of trials for this age group 1994 birthdays wil be announced soon but the boys who have done well this year will get the chance to continue to develop at Stirling Albion next season.

New Team Plans
Stirling Albion intend entering a team in the SFA Youth Initiative at Under 13 level next season. Plans are progressing and coach Blair Cremin will move from his role with the Under 16 team to take charge of the new age group team.
Blair said,' We are looking for boys born in 1996 who are of a good standard to compete at the next level. The SFA player pathway recommends that players of a suitable standard in the Scottish Youth FA and the local Football Development Leagues should move on to SFA Youth Initiative teams. We will shortly hold trials and we are looking for the support of local boys' club officials to promote players of a good standard to our club.'

17's Cup Bid Narrowly Fails.
A great run of four successive victories has only just failed to win the Stirling Albion U17 team a place in the SFL Youth League Cup semi final.Despite their good run of wins the team were depending on local rivals East Stirling to take points of Cowdenbeath in the final qualifying section game. The Shire unfortunately lost 2 - 0 to the Fifers who now go through and this brings to an end the 17's season.
The team has had a mixed season with some great performances as well as some disappointing games.
A number of players will be retained to join the Under 19 side next season but as unfortunately happens in football some will be released.
The club would thank all their players for their efforts this season and especially wish good luck to those who will not be with Stirling Albion next season.

Monday 5th May 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
The Stirling Albion Under 19 Youth team unfortunately tumbled out of the S.F.L. Under 19 League Cup when they lost 3-1 to local rivals Stenhousemuir last Tuesday.
Needing only a point to secure a semi final spot the Binos appeared to freeze on the big occasion especially in a very disappointing first half. Coaches Graeme Donald and Dave Binnie prompted changes in the second half and a much better performance followed but the team couldn't do enough to get back in the game.

Stenhousemuir opened the first half in determined fashion as Stirling Albion failed to get started and they very quickly opened up a two nil lead. It was not until just before half time that Stirling started to put some passes together and when Liam Corr played in Ross McEwan , the in form striker pulled one back.
There were changes to the formation and in personnel when Stirling introduced Callum Scott in mid field and went to a  4 4 2  line up after half time..

The young Binos made a succession of chances with Corr hitting the bar and Morrison narrowly heading over from a corner. The home keeper made a number of saves and when he was beaten a defender popped up on the line to clear on no fewer than three occasions.
As the visitors pressed for a late equaliser it was Stenhousemuir who notched a third goal to steal the semi final spot and bring the Stirling season to an abrupt and disappointing end.

The only consolation for a disappointed coaching staff was that eight of the players finishing the game for Stirling are eligible to play again next season in the U 19 age group.

Once the disappointment is over the team can look back on a successful season overall.

The club would like to say thank you and farewell to a few players who have been involved for some years  but who are now too old to play at Under 19 level and who have not been offered a first team opportunity.

Our thanks and good luck wishes go to Sam Shaddick, Lewis McKinlay, Derek Currie who have been with us for four seasons and to Michael Dick,Darren Dalrymple, Andy Smith and Stuart McFarlane who have been with us for two seasons. 

The under 17 team meanwhile are held in limbo as they wait to see if they have sneaked into the SFL U 17 League Cup semi finals.

The team did all they were asked to do by beating East Stirling last Thursday with a comfortable  2 - 0 scoreline meaning that they have won four games in a row in the qualifying section. Barry Miller and Dylan McGowan scored a goal in each half to secure the points but the team must wait on the results of Arbroath v Alloa and East Stirling v Cowdenbeath to learn if their run of good performances will earn a last four spot.

On Sunday the U 16 team turned up at Broadwood to play their final fixture of the season but unfortunately opponents Clyde FC did not show.There was no explanation for the 'no show' and the SFA Youth Development organisation will look into the mystery.

The Under 14 team meanwhile did play Clyde on Sunday at Forthbank and, having suffered two heavy defeats from the strong Broadwood outfit, they worked really hard in their second last fixture of the season.

Eventually Clyde won 2 - 0 scoring both goals in the final period of play with long range efforts but the Stirling team can take great credit for their play and determination in this fixture.

Next week the youngsters will try to finish on a high note when they play Dumbarton FC away from home in their last fixture.

The club are looking to strengthen this squad and notice of trials will be given in local press and on this website very soon. This is for players born in 1994. Any player already registered for a club must receive permission from their current club before attending any trial opportunities.

The club also intend introducing a new team at the Under 13 age group for players with a 1996 birth year. Once again players must have club permission to attend when these trials when they are organised.

Further information can be found by contacting the club, initially on 01786 450399.

Supporters Backing for Youth Development Scheme.
Once again the fans of Stirling Albion have shown their support of the Youth Development Programme with another donation to fund raising. The Supporters' Club, through James Smith, handed over to Stewart Taylor a sum of £120.00 from sponsorship of goalscorers through out the season.'Every little helps in our efforts to raise funds and all those involved in the Youth Programme are thankful for the donation and interest shown in our work'

Diageo Brand Technical Centre Renews Youth Sponsorship.
Locally based global company Diageo have once again indicated their intention to support the Youth Development Programme at Stirling Albion.

Robert McElroy, Technical Director Europe, has contacted Youth Development Co-ordinator, Stewart Taylor to indicate that once again the Brand Technical Centre in Menstrie are happy to support the work that the club performs in providing the opportunity for local youngsters to develop in the game of football. Dr McElroy said, ' The opportunity that Stirling Albion offers to youth footballers falls in line with Diageo's 'Skill for Life ' programme and we are happy to contribute to the successful programme offered at Stirling Albion.'

Stewart Taylor responded by saying, ' This is great news for us again from Diageo. Their support has been terrific and it allows us to try to provide the best we can for our young players as they try for a career in professional football. Again we are most grateful for the support.'

Monday 28th April 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
- Wembley Memories Spoiled by Loss - View report on England v Scotland

In the SFA Youth Initiative fixtures from Sunday 27th April, local rivals Alloa came out on top over the young Stirling Albion youth teams at both 14's and 16's levels. At Recreation Park the home team had a comfortable win although the margin of 6 - 1 did not reflect the close nature of some parts of the game. Stirling certainly played some good football but conceded too many soft goals while not being able to convert the numerous chances their good outfield play created. The team have two more fixtures - at home to Clyde next Sunday and then away to Dumbarton.
Trials will be advertised soon as the club looks to strengthen the squad for next season. This is for boys in the 1994 age group and anyone attending the forthcoming trials who is currently signed for a club must receive permission before attending. Futher details will be available soon from the club by telephoning 01786 450399.
At 16's level it finished 2 - 0 to Alloa on the astroturf surface at Forthbank in a lacklustre match. The 16's finish their programme with a game against Clyde away next Sunday and will then play a few friendlies to assess the possibilities of introducing some new players for the 17's level next season. Boys born in 1992 are eligible for the 17's age group next year.Trial details to follow.

The 17's squad gave themselves an outside chance of qualification in the SFL League Cup competition when they defeated Montrose on Sunday. Knowing that only two victories in their final fixtures against both Montrose and East Stirling would offer any hope, the team went about its business in good fashion on Sunday at Forthbank.
After a goalless first half when the Binos squandered a few chances the team made a very positive start in the second period. A number of good crosses had the Montrose defence stretched and eventually Daniel Hancock made a great back post header to give Stirling a lead after three second half minutes. Moments later new signing Johnnie Chalk again proved his value by scoring to make it two nil. Chalk has scored in all of his five games so far for Stirling and seems to be enjoying himself after his move from Falkirk FC. His first goal came from a Dylan McGowan through ball and he added a third after a the ball bounced loose in the penalty box area.
Scott Younger added a fourth for a convincing 4 - 0 victory which sets the team up for the last qualifying game against East Stirling due on Thursday 1st May at Fortbank astro with a 7.15 kick off.
A win would give the Binos an outside chance of a semi final spot as second placed team but only if other results went their way. A record of four wins and three losses might just be good enough so the boys will give it everything on Thursday.

A winner takes all situation also exists for the U 19 team who meet Stenhousemuir in their final qualifying section match on Tuesday 2th April at Ochilview, kick off 7.15pm. A draw will put Stirling in the semi final while Stenhousemuir require all three points.

Good luck to both teams in their efforts to progress in the League Cup competitions.

Monday 14th April 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
The Under 19 team had an opportunity to seal their place in the semi final of the Youth League Cup when they took on local rivals Alloa at Forthbank astro on Sunday but in a disappointing performance they could only manage draw. A victory would have put the team in a strong position but they must now travel to Stenhousemuir for the final qualifying match knowing that a win is required for certain qualification.

With two great victories against Clyde and Airdrie to build on a good performance was needed against Alloa but, as has happened on too many occasions this season, the team started slowly. They conceded a headed goal from an unchallenged corner after 12 minutes and then after 20 minutes fell two behind when a square pass from Lewis McKinlay was intercepted.

To their credit the players did respond with Liam Corr in particular showing a determined attitude. He was prominent in giving the Alloa defence a difficult time.
From a corner kick mid fielder Craig Young scored a powerful header to start a comeback after 25minutes. Minutes later the Binos were level when Corr linked brilliantly with Michael Dick before squaring to Ross McEwan who netted from close in.
Stirling were now in command but an unfortunate head knock injury to an Alloa player meant a significant delay in play and the home team lost the momentum and never really got going again.

A goalless second half meant dropped points for Stirling and sets up a tasty match against Stenhousemuir. The game is at Ochilview with a likely date of Tuesday 29th April but this is still to be confirmed.

The Under 17 team were also playing against Alloa on Sunday at Recreation Park. The team lost 3 -2 in a tight game. Goalscorers were David Moodie and Johnnie Chalk but the defeat means that Stirling have little chance of qualifying from their group. On Sunday they meet Cowdenbeath at Forthbank astro with a 12 15 ko.

On Friday night the 16's team earned a creditable draw against St Johnstone at Forthbank. Michael Burns scored an equalising goal in a 1 - 1 draw in what was a well contested match.
On Sunday 20th April the team travels to play Queen of the South and the game will take place on Palmerston Park.

Having lost heavily to Queen's Park in an earlier meeting , the 14's team took on the Glasgow club on Sunday at Forthbank and although beaten 2 - 0 the progress made by the team this season was evident as they gave their opponents a much stiffer contest. The 14's meet Queen of the South on Sunday at Forthbank astro with a 2.15ko.


WEMBLEY BOUND

Four Stirling Albion youth players will have the opportunity of a lifetime next week end when they travel as part of the Scottish Schools' Football Association squad for a game against England with the Centenary Shield and Bobby Moore Trophy at stake.The game will be played at Wembley Stadium with a 3.00pm kick off on Saturday 26th April and the boys will be part of the first Scottish team to play at the famous venue since it was rebuilt.

Liam Corr ( McLaren HS) is the squad captain and his goals against Wales and the Republic of Ireland have helped Scotland to an unbeaten record this season.
Don Morrison ( Falkirk HS) has been an ever present in the national schoolboys' team and has been outstanding at centre back.
Gregg Munn ( Larbert HS) , who plays in the Under 17 Stirling youth team, is the youngest member of the squad and has played against Jersey and as a substitute against Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
Mid fielder Magnus Neilson ( Dunblane HS) has been troubled by an niggling ankle injury but he will be hopeful of recovering fitness to be able to take part.

The English Schools' FA have hired Wembley at a cost of £350,000.00 and a crowd of 30,000 is necessary for their association to break even on the event. There is a Celebrity Game to be played before the game with Gordon Ramsay, Ewan McGregor and Paulo Nantini down to play for Scotland against an English celebrity team.

The Bank of Scotland sponsored team travel by first class train on Thursday and fly home immediately after the game hopefully with a victory.

Stirling Albion's youth goalkeeping coach, Dave Eccles will be part of the coaching team at Wembley and Youth Development Co-ordinator, Stewart Taylor will be there as President of the Scottish School's FA.

Good Luck to the boys for a memorable, history making weekend.

Monday 7th April 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
Pride of place at the weekend goes to the Under 19 team who went nap in their League Cup fixture at home to Airdrie at Forthbank on Sunday. The team turned in a terrific second half performance to win 5 - 0 against a side who beat them only a few weeks ago.In doing so, they keep up the pace as section leaders in the League Cup Qualifying matches.

The early snow of Sunday morning thankfully cleared quickly but the players had a difficult strong wind to cope with in the first half. Striker Ross McEwan went through a couple of times and Liam Corr shot over as Stirling threatened despite playing against the wind. Keeper Daniel Cawley and a back three of KennyFeaks, Lewis McKinlay and Don Morrison defended strongly and half time arrived with the score at 0-0.

The wind did seem to drop but Stirling were soon on the front foot looking to score a goal in a game in which the first score would clearly be so important. The break through goal came in 63 minutes when Cawley launched a long kick downfield. Corr chased it to the corner and beat a defender before squaring for Michael Dick to place a neat shot beyond the Airdrie keeper from 15 yards.
Four minutes later Don Morrison rose to powerfully head home a Darren Dalrymple corner. Dalrymple had replaced Sam Shaddick in 60 minutes and his corner was met flush by Morrison for a spectacular goal.

Airdrie might have got one back after 75 minutes and that might have made a difference. Instead Stirling took full command when substitute Stevie McIntosh had a back post tap in after good build up play from Dick to give the Binos a three goal lead.

In 82 minutes Dalrymple had a great dribbling run across field before McIntosh played him in with a lovely reverse pass from which he shot home.
In the 83rd minute the three goals in three minutes blitz was concluded when Robbie Hurst played in mid field partner Kevin Fotheringham. The mid field pair had performed well through out and deserved to link up for the final goal of the game buried in the corner by Fotheringham.

This was an excellent all round performance and coaches Dave Binnie and Graham Donald will have the team focussed for next Sunday's home fixture to Alloa. Another win will give the team a great chance of qualification to the semi final but nothing will be taken for granted as the team try to inspire manager Allan Moore to consider some of them for future games at first team level.

The 17's game against Montrose was mysteriously cancelled by the Angus team on Saturday at tea time as they were struggling to field a team. Youth Co-ordinator Stewart Taylor has been asked to seek advice from the SFL regarding this late cancellation.On Sunday 13th Stirling travel to nearby neighbours Alloa for what could prove a vital section qualifier.

The 16's team travelled to Ayr United for what they knew would be very difficult match. A number of squad players were unavailable due to injury or holiday committments but the 13 who could attend did well before losing out 2 -1. Ayr scored first in the second half after an even first period but a Matt Johnston header from a corner brought Stirling level.
Unfortunately a short pass back gave Ayr the chance for a late winner.
The 16's play St Johnstone next but a date for the fixture has still to be confirmed.

The 14's team produced one of their best performances of the season against Ayr United despite losing 2-1.
Stirling scored with the wind advantage in the first period with a goal from a well constructed, flowing move. Starting in the right back position, through mid field to overlapping captain John Bilsland on the left wing. His precise cross was met by striker Ryan Marshall who knocked the ball home to round off a near perfect move.
Stirling dominated against the wind in the second period but couldn't add a second goal. Keeper Andy Duncan had a terrific save to keep the score at 1 -0 going into the third period. The gifted Ayr team eventually did score twice, one in each half of the split final period to secure a win.

Although disappointed by the final result the players were encouraged to think about the quality of the performance. The young team continue to progress and, as time passes, there are players who show real signs of excellent potential.
Next Sunday's game is at home against a strong Queen's Park side but the players missing on holiday from the Ayr game should be available for the Forthbank game.

Captain Corr Leads By Example.
Stirling Albion's Liam Corr led his Scotland Under 18 Schoolboy International team by example in their recent Centenary Shield match against the Republic of Ireland in Athlone on Friday night as they fought back to win a vital away point.

Somewhat against the run of play the Scots found themselves two goals down at half time against an Irish team unbeaten at this age group over the years in over 40 games.
Stirling's centre back Don Morrison had another excellent performance at the heart of the Scotland defence as they worked hard to contain a strong home team.
Young Greg Munn who captains the Bino's 17's team was introduced at half time and, after a slightly nervous start, he settled to produce a sturdy performance.

Liam Corr started the Scotland comeback when, with around twenty minutes to play, he picked up a cut back on the left just inside the box. His fiercely driven shot beat the Irish keeper and gave the Scotland side a much needed boast.
With only a few minutes to play Corr fought for possession on the left just inside the Irish half then fired over a fantastic diagonal ball which freed team mate Kevin Ireland on the right. Ireland's first touch was terrific and his shot fired into the far corner to round off a spirited comeback from the Scotland team.

Stirling's goalkeeping coach, Dave Eccles is the National goalkeeping coach for the SSFA and he and Youth Development Co-ordinator, Stewart Taylor who is the current President of the Schools' Association will travel with the team to play England in the final game at Wembley on Saturday 26th April.
' This is a really exciting time for all the players including our Stirling Albion boys. We hope that Magnus Neilson, the fourth Stirling player in the squad, recovers fitness for the Wembley game. It will be the chance of a lifetime and we have given ourselves a chance of winning the Centenary Shield at Wembley by beating England. The Stirling Albion players have made a great contribution to an unbeaten season so far and we hope that is still the same after the 26th April'

Monday 31st March 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
There was a blank week end scheduled for all the Stirling Albion Youth teams on Easter Sunday. The 17's team however played a re-scheduled match at home to Arbroath at night on Good Friday at Forthbank. The side were disappointed to lose to the Angus team who scored the only goal of the game mid way through the second half. The wind made playing conditions extremely difficult. Keeper Michael Penn could consider himself unlucky to lose a goal in a steady handling performance. The team is lacking some confidence when their decent outfield play does not produce the goals but will continue to strive for a win in the League Cup competition.

After the Easter week end break the Youth teams were anxious for action, none more so than the 19's team who finished their 21 game league programme in a very commendable position.With a few fixtures to be finalised the Youth Under 19 table looks like this:

The League Cup fixtures have been issued and for the young Binos a chance clearly exists to proceed to the semi finals. In the same Stirling section are - Clyde, Airdrie, Alloa and Stenhousemuir.

The first game took on an appropriate significance when the team had to travel to Broadwood on Sunday for the first match in the section.Clyde fielded four players who have featured recently at first team level but it was Stirling who produced an excellent performance to win 2 - 0 and secure the vital qualifying points. After a goalless first half it was Liam Corr who broke the deadlock with a smart back post header. Corr had made his debut at first team level on Saturday at Livingston and had also captained the Scottish Schoolboys' team in their 1 - 1 draw with Northern Ireland on Tuesday and his goal rounded off a remarkable week for the youngster.

Sam Shaddick scored a screamer in 75 minutes to seal the victory in an excellent team performance. Team coaches Dave Binnie and ex player Graham Donald were delighted but a little disappointed that the team manager did not see the performance which was watched by the Clyde management team of John Brown and Dougie Bell.
Sunday sees the 19's take on Airdrie at home with the likelihood that the match will take place on the main pitch at Forthbank.

The 17's team took on Raith Rovers at Forthbank astro last Sunday and notched up their first league Cup section win with a victory over Raith Rovers. Beaten by the Fife team in the league Stirling were impressive in recording a 6 - 4 win. Recently released by Falkirk FC, Dunblane youngster Johnnie Chalk has joined the squad and he made an immediate impact scoring twice and leading by example with an energetic and fully committed performance. Chalk, who has been working with ex Stirling Assistant Davy Gemmell, joined after negotiations between Gemmell and Youth Co-ordinator Stewart Taylor.

The newcomer set up the first goal for strike partner David Moodie after 40 minutes and centre back Steve Dolan added a headed goal just before half time. Raith pulled one back after ten minutes of the second period but Chalk turned in a Wilson header to restore Stirling's two goal lead minutes later. Two more goals followed in quick succession from Aaron Campbell and then Johnnie Chalk scoring. Raith scored again before substitute Dylan McGowan did as he promised he would when he scored number six.
Stirling were guilty of slackening off and lost two late goals but never were in danger of losing their lead and a well earned three points.
On Sunday they meet Montrose at home on the astro at Forthbank with a 2. 15pm kick off.

The 16's had no fixture this week end but the 14's were in action against Morton at Battery Park, Greenock.

The side was slow to start after last week's lay off and were missing a couple of players. They found themselves two down quickly but rallied well to pull back level. Shaun Johnston scored from the spot and then Alan McKerracher equalised.
In a game where the team were a bit inconsistent they hit the bar through Ryan Marshall but then lost a winner to Morton late in the game.
Sunday sees Ayr United report to Forthbank for a fixture which will kick off at 12.15pm.

A busy Sunday in store for players, coaches and parents as the Youth department continues to provide the opportunity for local youngster to continue their football development.

Monday 17th March 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
It was a busy weekend for the Youth Department and the players last weekend as four games took place between Friday and Sunday afternoon and our Schoolboy Internationalists had a victory over Wales in the Centenary Shield.

The under 19 team concluded their League fixtures in the SFL Youth Division with two wins and six points which should almost certainly see them finish in the top six of a twenty one team league.
On Friday night they met Arbroath and despite playing well in the opening period they found themselves two goals down . The ball over the top exposed defensive weaknesses and by half time they were two goals behind.
A few 'home truths' were imparted at half time and it must be said that the players responded really well to recover and achieve a 3 - 2 victory. Captain for the night, keeper Daniel Cawley rallied the troops, the normally calm and mild mannered coach ex player Graham Donald issued some 'advice' and Sam Shaddick in particular turned the result around. Stevie McIntosh scored first on the turn, Kevin Fotheringham turned in a rebounded shot and striker Ross McEwan fired home a winner late in the game to give the Binos three points from a game they should have won easily.

On Sunday the team made the long trip North to play Elgin City at the Lossiemouth Air Base. Having passed through tight security the team made a flying start and led 4 - 0 before half time against the team bottom of the division. Kevin Fotheringham netted a double and both Liam Corr and Don Morrison scored in Stirling's first half lead. Ross McEwan scored in the second period as the team saw their way through to a comfortable win.

The victory ends what has been a successful ,if at times frustrating, league programme. A number of games were lost unneccesarily particularly by giving teams a two or three goal start. Nevertheless to finish so high in a league which has teams with full time players in opposition is no mean achievement and the players and coaches can feel pleased with the overall performance.
Now an important League Cup campaign will begin.Players and coaching staff will be very keen to make an impact on the trophy which Stirling Albion won in season 1997- 98.

Other news from the senior youth team - Derek Currie has been loaned out to Camelon Juniors for the remainder of the season to allow the opportunity for the young full back to gain useful experience. Competition rules allow Derek to continue to play as a triallist in the League Cup competition and the Cowie youngster is keen to contribute to a good cup campaign.
Liam Corr captained the Scottish Schoolboy Under 18 team to a vital win against Wales in the Centenary Shield match played at Tannadice Park on Friday 14th March. Corr led by example with a great all round performance. He scored Scotland's opening goal after 19 minutes finishing off Scotland's first decent move of the game. Wales equalised before the interval with a screamer from 25 yards.

After the break Corr had an immediate impact with a delightful pass which put teammate Hugh Kerr in the clear. The desperate challenge of the Welsh defender brought a stone wall penalty award and Johnny Boyle from Cumbernauld , a Dundee United youth player, netted from the spot. Alloa youth player Martin O'Neill added a third to seal the victory in the first game of the competition.
Stirling Albion's central defender, Don Morrison had a great game in the heart of the Scottish defence and never put a foot wrong all night. He was replaced before the end by St Mungo's HS pupil and Alloa youth player Mark McCafferty who earned his first cap.
Stirling's other squad players, Magnus Neilson(injured) and Greg Munn( unused sub) did not feature this time round but they, like the rest of the local players, will be hoping for involvement in the re -scheduled fixture against Northern Ireland which will now go ahead at Hamilton Accies, New Douglas Park at 1 .30pm on Tuesday 25th March.

Also involved in games at the weekend were the 14's team who played very well in defeating opponents Elgin City by 7 - 2. Shaun Johnston scored a hat trick to give Stirling a first period lead with Paul Rogers also finding the net with an 18 yard shot. In the second period John Rooney scored and in the third period Ross McGeachie and Ryan Marshall netted as Stirling played some excellent football to create numerous chances. The 14's have no scheduled fixture next week.

The 16's team had another excellent game against Queen's Park in a game transferred to Forthbank as a result of the Hampden Cup Final. Stirling led 1 - 0 in the first period , Andy Hunter scoring for the third consequetive game from a header from a Pender corner.
Queen's came back with a strike directly from a corner and it was the Glasgow team who found a winner with another superbly struck shot in the third period. This was a disappointing result for the players and coach Blair Cremin but the performance was excellent as the team players continue to progress. Only down side was the injuries to Alan Forbes and Matt Johnston to add to the three players missing through illness.

It is the 17's team who now face a two games in three days schedule when they play Arbroath on Friday night 21st March and the East Stirling on Sunday 23rd March in League Cup fixtures.

Monday 10th March 2008 - by Stewart Taylor
Overall it was a disappointing week end as far as results were concerned for the Stirling Albion youth teams last week end.On the fund raising side, though, an extremely successful and enjoyable Race Night fund raiser took place at Smith's Restaurant on Friday 7th March. With some monies still to be collected a figure of over £1,00.00 is anticipated. The Finance Committee of the Youth Development Programme would like to thank everyone for their support for an event which had over 150 people in attendance and proved both profitable and enjoyable.Sponsors included Diageo Brand Technical Centre, Peter McKenzie, Clive Ramsay, Neil Hart Electrician ( Stenhousemuir), Magnet Kitchens( Springkerse), Young Reds, Supporters' Trust www.stirlingalbion.com, Barclay Partners Finance, Vandanel Sports, John and Alex Smith and A& M Ewing.

The Under 19 team went into their game last Sunday hopeful of victory but concerned at the condition of the ground at Fleet Grounds , Rosyth for their match against Dunfermline. After a goalless first half Dunfermline went ahead from a penalty after 50minutes and added to this with a free kick later in the game. After a good start this was another disappointing show from the team who will conclude their league programme with a game at home against Arbroath on Friday 14th March at Forthbank and then away to Elgin on Sunday 16th March.

The under 17 team played their first match in the SFL league Cup against St Johnstone at Forthbank but lost out 2 - 0. A well contested game saw the Saints finish comfortable winners. Dylan McGowan went close on a number of occasions and Mike Penn in goals pulled off a number of good saves. A big improvement will be needed to progress. The 17's play Arbroath at home next - Forthbank on Friday 21st March 8.30pm kick off.

The 16's went down 3 - 2 against Clyde on Sunday at Forthbank but having suffered a heavy defeat last time to Clyde this was a much improved performance. The young Binos went behind when keeper Dolan was penalised for handling what was deemed a pass back to everyone's amazement. Clyde scored from the free kick on the six yards line. Stirling responded well and Andy Hunter missed a one on one chance before controlling well and shooting home from a Danny Ashe free kick moments later.
Clyde scored once more before the break, the Stirling defence not reacting when the ball was spilled from a free kick.
After half time Stirling hit back with a glorious goal from Mike Burns. His chip from 18 yards left the keeper stranded for a spectacular goal.
When centre back Greig Murray lost possession in midfield he was so anxious to win the ball back he brought down an opponent in the box for a clear penalty. The kick was converted in somewhat bizarre circumstances when the referee called out 'Hold it' as the player approached to take the kick. The kicker continued to score as everyone else stopped! Strange !
The final score of 3 - 2 was disappointing but again there were some good performances. Ross Gallacher did well and Mike Burns must have learned something from his recent trip to Barcelona !
The 16's are away to Queen's Park on Sunday.

With three defeats recorded Youth Coordinator Stewart Taylor awaited the result from the 14's team and was pleased when coaches Graham Watson and Ian McConnell reported a 2 - 1 away win at Arbroath. John Rooney scored from the edge of the box when a corner was not well cleared before Arbroath equalised. Stirling went ahead when Shaun Johnston converted a penalty and in the third period keeper Lewis Usher made a couple of good saves to protect the narrow lead.
Next game for the youngsters is at home to Elgin on Sunday at Forthbank with a 1.15 kick off.

Thanks again to all who supported the Race Night last Friday. Would those who pledged money please make contact with Stewart Taylor at a home match