The Blue Brazil On-Line

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Albion Rovers	0	0	0
Annan Athletic	0	0	0
Berwick	0	0	0
Cowden	0	0	0
Dumbarton	0	0	0
East Stirling	0	0	0
Elgin City	0	0	0
Forfar Ath	0	0	0
Montrose	0	0	0
Stenhousemuir	0	0	0

Blue Brazil Open Training Session

A reminder that Cowden will hold an open training session and officially launch their new kit for season 2008/09 this Thursday at Central Park. The gates will be open from 7.30pm onwards with the training session scheduled to go on until 8.30pm. The Club Bar will be open throughout and the players and management team will join the fans in the bar from 8.45pm onwards.

The new home and away shirt, designed by kit makers errea and chosen by the Supporters Club, will be available for purchase on the night.

Come along and watch Danny Lennon put the squad through their paces, meet the players and management team, and be one of the first to get your hands on the new kit for season 2008/09.

Youth propescts Danny Mackay (home) and Thomas O'Brien (away) are pictured modelling the new kit. (23 July 2008)

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Tayport v Cowden XI

A Cowden XI ran out convining 4-1 winners against Tayport Juniors last night at Canniepairt. It was an impressive display from a young Cowden team - including a number of trialists - who were up against one of the top juniors sides in Scotland. Darren McGregor and Marek Tomana got another run-out and both were on the scoresheet along with Jon Robertson and Scott Linton. (23 July 2008)

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Co-op Insurance Cup 1st Round

Cowden face yet another away cup tie after the draw for the 1st round of the Co-operative Insurance Cup was made at Hampden Park this afternoon. Danny Lennon's team were the second name out of the hat and will travel to Links Park to face Montrose on either Tuesday 5th or Wednesday 6th August. (22 July 2008)

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15s friendly win

The Cowden under 15s side recorded a 4-2 win over Charlotte United on Sunday afternoon. The American youngsters are currently in Scotland, based at St. Andrews Universtiy, on an 8 day training camp and will be at Central Park on Thursday to take part in a training session under Danny Lennon and Bob Paterson.

The American team choose Cowden's Mitchell Baldwin as the Man of the Match. (22 July 2008)

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Cowden v Dundee Utd

A talented young Dundee United team - including 1st team squad players Michael McGovern, Jon Daly, David Goodwillie, Greig Cameron, Marco Andreoni and Johnny Russell - ran out 4-2 victors in an entertaining encounter at Central Park. Cowden competed well against their full-time opponents but two goals in the last 30 minutes ensured victory for United. Read the full match report including action pics.

As the first team went down to Dundee United a young Cowden side beat East of Scotland League side Easthouses Lily at the Newbatle Complex. The side ,under the charge of Davie Liddle and Mickey Weir, comprised of youth team players and trialists along with Marek Tomana. The Cowden goals came from Callum Young, Matt Lynch and Scott McCrindle. (19 July 2008)

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Mixu's coming to town

Cowden will face SPL side Hibernian in a pre-season friendly on Monday 28th July at Central Park. The fixture will see Mixu Paatelainen return to Central Park on official business for the first time since resigning from the Cowden hotseat in October 2006.

Mixu famously led Cowden to their first title win in 67 years when his team secured the Third Division title in 2005/06 after a dramatic victory over Elgin City on the last day of the season. Mixu departed for TPS Turku in his homeland the following season before taking over from John Collins at Easter Road earlier this year.

Come along to Central Park on the 28th and witness the return of one of Cowdenbeath Football Club's all time greats. Kick-off is 7.30pm and admission prices are as follows:

Adults - £10

OAP - £5

Kids under 16 accompanied by an adult - Free

Kids unaccompanied by an adult - £2

*Ron Ferguson's book - Helicopter Dreams - tells the story of how Mixu Paatelainen and his team won the title in 2005/06 against all the odds. The book is available from the Club Shop (£9.99).

(19 July 2008)

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Youth update

The Blue Brazil Online met up with Cowden's new Head of Youth Development Bob Paterson this week. Bob started his coaching career at Dunfermline where he was youth coach under three different managers: Jocky Scott, Bert Paton and Dick Campbell. After leaving East End Park he moved to Motherwell and joined their acclaimed youth set-up under Manager Billy Davies and youth supremo David McPharland. Next stop for Bob was Gretna where he was appointed youth co-ordinator and worked alongside Cowden boss Danny Lennon. Last season Bob coached the under 19s and also held the role of Youth Education and Welfare Officer.

Bob took up his new post with Cowden in mid June and has spent the first hectic month getting the youth academy ready for the new season and also helping Danny Lennon out with the 1st team. Bob gave his thoughts on his first month at the club, explained the decision to operate at Youth Initiative level this season and outlined his vision for the future:

“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to take on the role of Head of Youth Development at Central Park and I am looking forward to building on the foundations that are in place and working with the coaches, players and parents in order that we can take the youth set up to the next level.

“It has been an unsettling time for many after the changes at the club over the summer – this is not unusual and has happened at clubs across the country after a change of manager. Two or three of the young players have moved on and a number of coaches have departed. However, things have started to settle down and the players and their parents are buying into and supporting our vision for the youth academy.

“We will be competing at Youth Initiative this season with four teams operating at various levels. It had not been possible to meet the criteria for Elite Performance League after a number of coaches left the club during the summer. You need to have two coaches with youth licenses and two with level 4 qualifications for each team in order to meet the criteria and it was not possible to do this at such short notice as the youth teams had to be registered earlier in the summer. Therefore the decision was taken to register at Youth Initiative level – which is an excellent standard – this season but we see this as a temporary measure.

“It is our ambition to return to the Elite Performance League next season and we are already making in-roads towards achieving that aim. We will work at putting the necessary structures in place and I am currently speaking to a number of coaches at the moment. Sometimes you have to take a step backwards to progress and we are certainly not resting on our laurels.

“The under 19s returned to training on Monday and I have been very impressed with their commitment and ability. The nucleus of the side which won the 17s league cup – which was a tremendous achievement – have made the step up to the 19s. A number of the lads at this age group will be training with the club full-time again this season. They are Peter Bradley, Dean Brett, John Ferguson, Ross Galbraith, Matt Hemsley, Chris King, Danny Mackay, Sam Morris, Thomas O'Brien, Jamie Reid, Martin Robinson and Derek Wallace.

“I have also taken sessions with the under 17s and 15s and also took in the trials for the 13s at Beath High School. I have been impressed by the quality of the young players and they are enthusiastic and have the potential to do well in the game.

“We also have some excellent coaches at youth level. David Liddle, Jim Ward, Scott Linton (who plays for the 1st team), Steven Fraser and Keith Harvey will be working with the under 13s upwards while Danny Lennon and myself will coach the 19s. Andy Forbes, our 1st team goalkeeping coach, will work with the keepers at all age groups.

“I strongly believe that the club needs to get more involved with the schools and wider community. I have spoken with the Active Schools Co-ordinator and will be in touch with the Head's once the Schools return from summer holidays.

"It is our intention to hold regular coaching sessions in the local schools and promote the club in the local community. The full-time under 19 players will participate which will given them the opportunity to work towards coaching badges themselves. The sessions will give the kids an opportunity to improve their game and for some, with the required ability, the chance to join our youth academy. They may also decide to choose to follow Cowden rather than the Old Firm or whoever else. To this end we will offer free tickets (if they are accompanied by an adult) to kids who attend the sessions.

“I also plan to resurrect the link between the club and the Blue Brazil Boys Club. They have an excellent set-up and have had some notable national successes over the years. I have met with Andy Mair (one of the original founders) and will be setting up further meetings to move this forward. Already three of their players are likely to join our 13s team and Scott Eastheugh should join the 16s squad.

“Finally, I would like to reaffirm that Cowdenbeath Football Club is fully committed to youth development. This is the way forward for the long-term future along with developing more of a community based club. Rumours of the club cutting back on the youth system are far from the truth. In fact, it is the opposite and appointing a full-time head of youth development is the first measure aimed at progressing to the next level.”

The Blue Brazil Boys Club's under 13s team attended the friendly against Dundee and were also the ball boys for the game.

The youth academy begins its pre-season programme of friendly matches this weekend with the under 19s and 15s first in action. The under 19s kick-off their pre-season programme on Saturday 19th July with a game against Easthouses. The under 15s will play an American team called Charlotte United, who are based at St. Andrews University for an 8 day training camp, on Sunday 20th July. (19 July 2008)

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Cowden add two more faces

Cowden added two more new faces to the squad with the capture of central defenders Joe Mbu and Darren McGregor (pictured) from Whitburn Juniors and Arniston Rangers respectively.

The 2-year deal for McGregor was verbally agreed a couple of weeks ago but was only officially concluded after the player returned from holiday. McGregor, who turned down an offer from Berwick Rangers, will be familiar to fans after progressing through the Blue Brazil youth ranks as a teenager. The 22-year old made his 1st team debut under Keith Wright in 2004 and played his part in the championship winning season in 2005/06. Darren was released in August 2006 and joined Lothian junior side Arniston Rangers were he has made a big impression over the last two years.

Joe Mbu, who has been attracting interest from other senior clubs, will also be a familiar face after appearing as a trialist for Cowden during pre-season. The towering central defender clinched a 1-year deal after impressing against 1st division Dundee at the weekend. Mbu joined Whitburn from Armadale in 2005/06 and spent three successful seasons at Whitburn winning their player of the year award on two occasions. The 26-year old, who's uncle played for Cameroon in the Word Cup in 1998, has won Scotland Junior Caps.

If you are interested in becoming Darren or Joe's official Blue Brazil sponsor click here for further details.(16 July 2008)

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Blue Brazil Open Training Session

Cowden will hold an open training session and officially launch their new kit for season 2008/09 on Thursday 24th July. The gates will be open from 7.30pm onwards with the training session scheduled to go on until 8.30pm. The Club Bar will be open throughout and the players and management team will join the fans in the bar from 8.45pm onwards.

The new home and away shirt, designed by kit makers errea and chosen by the Supporters Club, will be available for purchase on the night.

Come along and watch Danny Lennon put the squad through their paces, meet the players and management team, and be one of the first to get your hands on the new kit for season 2008/09.

Youth propescts Danny Mackay (home) and Thomas O'Brien (away) are pictured modelling the new kit. (14 July 2008)

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Dundee too strong

A full strength Dundee side proved too strong for Cowden in our opening home game of the pre season build up. Cowden competed well for the 1st half hour and held their own for the 60 minutes but full-time fitness told in the final half hour. See the match report and action pictures for further details. (12 July 2008)

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Cowden v Dundee

Cowden host their first pre-season fixture tomorrow afternoon with 1st Division side Dundee the visitors. Dundee boss Alex Rae will bring a strong squad to Central Park and the game against higher league opposition will provide a good test for Danny Lennon's team.

New signings Brian Fairbairn, Sandy Hodge, Marek Tomana and John Gemmell are likely to feature. Fellow new boy Derek Fleming is unlikely to be risked after picking up a slight knock against Vale of Leithen earlier in the week. Mark Baxter, John O'Neil and John Dempster are not quite ready for match action after injury.

"I am looking forward to playing in front of the home support tomorrow and testing ourselves against quality opposition", said Lennon.

"We have been working extremely hard to get Central Park in shape for the new season. There is still some work to do but it will be fully up and running for the opening game of the season against Annan.

"I would like to thank the supporters who have come in and helped with painting and various other tasks. They have been a fantastic help and their assistance and commitment is much appreciated."

The match will kick-off at 3pm and admission prices are as follows.

Adults - £8

OAP - £2

Kids under 16 accompanied by an adult - Free

Kids unaccompanied by an adult - £2

(11 July 2008)

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Wee Jimmies

The Blue Brazil will return to Wee Jimmies for their pre-match meal this season after a 18-month hiatus. The team ate at Wee Jimmies during the championship winning season but the tradition stopped shortly after Mixu Paatelainen left the club. Danny Lennon explained the decision:

"I spoke to Gary at Wee Jimmies and I am very pleased to say that he has agreed to provide the pre-match meal this season. It is important that the club is visable in the community and this is one of many initiative that are planned. It is also a great opportunity for the squad to gel and meet pre-match."

(11 July 2008)

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Supporters Club statement

I would like to take the opportunity, on behalf of the Supporters Club, to say a few words concerning recent events at the club.

Firstly, nobody on the Supporters Club Committee wants to publicly take sides in any dispute. We regret the departure of Gordon McDougall after so many years as the custodian of football in Cowdenbeath and recognise that few can have done so much for our club in its long history. We enjoyed a warm relationship with Gordon and can only pass on to him the best wishes, respect, and thanks of the members of the Supporters Club.

We would like to refer to 2 of our Key Objectives as laid down in the Supporters Club constitution:

To support the existence and continuation of CFC and senior football in Cowdenbeath.
To strengthen the bonds between CFC, its supporters, and the local community which it serves.

In my short time as Supporters Club Chairman, I have now seen 1 Chairman, 5 Managers and dozens of footballers depart, a situation, which will no doubt find itself replicated again and again. The only constants in this equation are the Football Club and the Supporters Club.

We can confirm that the Supporters Club are indeed long time shareholders in the Club and, as such, the present Committee are, emphatically supporting the new regime and we have embarked on what can only be described as a ‘honeymoon' period as Innovate have actively sought full co-operation with the Supporters Club in taking the Club forward.

Numerous discussions have taken place and a number of initiatives have been started which we hope will firmly cement the Fans and the Football Club together as we look towards creating a genuine and long lasting Community Partnership.

Innovate offered me the position of Non Executive Director on the CFC Board. I discussed this with various members of the Supporters Club Committee, especially with Sandy Ferguson and David Allan. We felt that this was an ideal opportunity to allow advice to be given to and information to be given back to us from, the Board. I accepted this role and am awaiting clarification. As a Non Executive Director, I will be able to attend Board meetings and act in an advisory capacity. Innovate have assured me that I will enjoy the same access to the club's business as do all the other Directors. They have also reassured me with regards to official duties on match days – I will act formally on a number of occasions and take my place with the other Directors, but will also be able to revert to my informal role on the bus and on the terracing as well.

One immediate benefit from accepting this post was that I was consulted about season ticket pricing and drinks pricing in the lounge bar. We firmly believe that the lounge bar could prove to be a more attractive venue for both home and away fans and will be discussing ways of achieving this in due course. The price of drinks has been lowered substantially and it would be great to start things off with a good attendance in the bar at the game against Annan. It's a big day for Annan and we would like our fans to make them welcome.

Also, with immediate effect, John & Evelyn Anderson, acting for the Supporters Club, will take on responsibility for the purchasing & selling of club merchandise. This will allow us to respond to your ideas and allow us to market and supply you directly. A shop will be opened, inside the ground and will be manned, on match days, by Supporters Club volunteers. Merchandise can also be bought from the club out-with Match days and over the internet. Innovate have agreed that a percentage of profits (yet to be finalised) will be given to the Supporters Club.

Detailed planning for the new stadium is well advanced. Sandy Ferguson will be the Supporters Club representative on the committee working on plans for the new stadium which Innovate have indicated will meet all SFL requirements. In the meantime, a number of supporters young and old have volunteered their time in helping out with painting and other repairs inside Central Park. Their efforts deserve recognition. Also, our unofficial club historian, David Allan, has been asked to give the ground more of a ‘football' look by framing and hanging a selection of historical photographs and other football memorabilia.

Innovate have told us that they wish to adopt a fully professional approach in all matters concerning the Football Club and its staff. There are more initiatives planned, which you will hear about, in due course, but we hope you will all feel, as we do, that there is nothing to be gained from mourning the past. Innovate are the new owners and, to date, have not only made their position and plans clear to us, but have indicated they will continue, actively, to seek our advice and help.

We will take every opportunity and use every medium at our disposal to keep you aware of events, and will endeavour to set up some sort of bulletin board, in the near future. We hope you will agree that supporter involvement in Cowdenbeath FC can only be a positive move and hope that all fans and the local community can become increasingly involved in the period of change that lies ahead for Cowdenbeath FC.

If any Supporter wishes to forward any ideas, on the way forward, please do not hesitate to contact any member of the Supporters Committee. We do not hold any monopoly on ideas. We are there to act on your behalf.

Dave Tuson - Chairman, Supporters Club (11 July 2008)

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Supporters Club AGM

At the Cowdenbeath Supporters Club AGM on 1st July 2008 at Wee Jimmies the following were elected to serve on the Committee for season 2008/09 - Dave Tuson (Chairman), Sandy Ferguson (Vice Chairman), David Allan (Treasurer), Greg Somerville, Aaron Tuson, Derek Neilson, Tommy Thomson, Ben Conway and Elaine Fotheringham. Click here to read Stuart Allan's report from the Meet the Manager session that followed the AGM.

Membership fees remain pegged at £9 Family, £7 standard, £5 youth/OAP and £50 for the increasingly popular Life membership option. A new bus scheme was also suggested for adoption and full details will be published shortly for members to consider. Membership renewal forms will be sent out shortly with a Club newsletter.

It was also unanimously agreed that journalist, author and lifelong
Cowden fan Ron Ferguson should be offered the Honorary Presidency of Cowdenbeath Football Supporters Club. The Supporters Club are
delighted to now announce that Ron has subsequently confirmed his
pleasure in accepting the post of Honorary President of the Supporters
Club as successor to the late Lord Ewing of Kirkford.

A suggestion for honouring players making over 100 appearances for
Cowdenbeath FC was put forward by Ian Fraser and it too found unanimous approval. (11 July 2008)

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Whitehill Welfare v Cowden

The ups and downs of pre season games continued on Wednesday night when we ran out winners over East of Scotland League champions Whitehill Welfare at Ferguson Park .

A much changed Cowden side opened the game brightly against a Welfare side which had former Central Parkers Jack Lynch and Darren Pryde in their line up. New recruit Brian Fairbain had a few good chances to open the scoring but it was the home side who came closest to breaking the deadlock after 24 minutes when a cross from Lynch was met by McDougall who saw his header crash off the cross bar and a minute later a Moffat shot was cleared off the line by our trialist centre half.

The deadlock was broken after 63 minutes however when John Ferguson slotted home a low shot from 14 yards. With five minutes remaining Mark Boyle settled the result with a well taken second goal, coolly slotting the ball past the keeper from ten yards.

Final score: Whitehill Welfare 0, Cowdenbeath 2.

TEAM: Sam Morris, Dene Droudge, Gary Cennerazzo, Andy Traub, Trialist, Trialist (Danny Mackay 31), Brian Fairbairn (Mark Boyle 67), Trialist (Trialist 67), Steven McDonald (John Ferguson 59), John Gemmell, Matt Lynch (Marek Tomana 55).

After the comfortable win over Premier Division Edinburgh City two days previously Cowden suffered a shock defeat from East of Scotland League First Division side Vale of Leithen at Victoria Park. After a promising start Cowden were shocked in the 27 th minute when Aaron Sommerville sent a looping 20 yarder past Hay and six minutes later he added a second with an angled shot from eight yards. After the break we had two good chances to get back into the game. Firstly a shot from the trialist substitute came off the bar, then Adamson lashed a shot off the crossbar. However two well taken goals from Chris Graham after 67 and 73 minutes sealed the borders sides win.

TEAM: David Hay, Trialist, Kenny Adamson, Trialist (Danny Lennon 59), Andy Traub, Sandy Hodge, Mark Ramsay, Jay Shields, Paul McQuade, Jon Robertson, Derek Fleming (Trialist 42). Subs not used – Trialist & Sam Morris.

Tomana signs up

Cowden have signed Marek Tomana from Stirling Albion after the Slovakian play maker spent an impressive spell on loan at Central Park towards the end of last season.

"Marek really impressed me during his time with us last season so I am delighted to be able to secure his signature on a permanent basis", commented Danny Lennon.

" He is very clever player and has a great engine."

Tomana joined Stirling Albion in 2006 from Tatran Presov. The 28-year old midfielder was an influential player in the Forthbank sides promotion winning team in 2006/07 and picked up the Stirling Albion.com player of the year award for his efforts.

Tomana takes the number of new recruits up to 5 and joins Brian Fairbairn, John Gemmell, Derek Fleming and Sandy Hodge at Central Park. Lennon is still looking to add one or two more players to his squad and is assessing a number of trialists. One position that he is keen to strengthen is goalkeeper after releasing young keeper Kyle Allison.

“Duff (David Hay) was magnificent for us last season but we need more competition in that area", explained Lennon.

"I don't feel that Kyle Allison is ready to challenge Duff and had proposed to put him out on loan to gain some 1st team experience. However, Kyle asked to be released and I have agreed to his request. I only want players who are fully committed to playing for this club and wish Kyle all the best in his future career.”

“I am looking for competition across all areas of the team to ensure that there is no comfort zone. Everyone will have to be on their toes and earn the right to a jersey.” (9 July 2008)

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Friendly prices

Cowden face Tannadice Street neighbours Dundee and Dundee United at Central Park in pre-season friendlies in the next 10 days. First up is 1st Division Dundee on Saturday 12th July and Alex Rae will bring a strong squad to Fife. Admission prices are as follows.

Adults - £8

OAP - £2

Kids under 16 accompanied by an adult - Free

Kids unaccompanied by an adult - £2

A Dundee United XI come to town the following Saturday (19th July). Admission prices are as follows:

Adults - £5

OAP - £2

Kids under 16 accompanied by an adult - Free

Kids unaccompanied by an adult - £2 (9 July 2008)

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Supporters rep on board

Innovate Cowdenbeath Ltd have invited the Supporters Club to take up a non-executive position on the Cowdenbeath Football Club Board so that they can make representation as well as be involved in the ongoing running of the club. It was subsequently agreed after consultation, that Dave Tuson will take up this appointment on behalf of the Supporters Club. (7 July 2008)

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Season tickets/gate prices

Cowdenbeath Football Club is pleased to announce that season ticket prices have been significantly reduced for season 2008/09 and gate prices have been frozen. In addition, a wide range of new season ticket and gate entry offers are available. Phone 01383 610166 to order your season ticket and show your support for the Blue Brazil.

Standard Season Tickets

Adult - £150 (all home league and cup games)
50/50 Adult - £75 (50% of all home league games)
OAP/under 16 - £50 (all home league and cup games)

Family Season Tickets

Adult & 1 child under 16 - £175 (all home league and cup games)
Adult & 2 children under 16 - £200 (all home league and cup games)
Full family (i.e. 2 adults and up to 5 children under 16) - £250 (all home league and cup games)

Gate Prices

Adult - £10
OAP - £5
Child under 16 accompanied by an adult - £1
Child under 16 unaccompanied by an adult - £5

(7 July 2008)

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Meet the Manager

The AGM of the Cowdenbeath Football Supporters Club on 1st of July 2008 in Wee Jimmies was followed by a meeting with Danny Lennon, Jim Methven (of Innovate Cowdenbeath Ltd) and Bob Paterson (Cowden's new head of youth development) for a ‘Meet The Manager plus‘ night. Full report to follow.

Representatives from the Club and Innovate Cowdenbeath Limited met with Supporters Club Chairman Dave Tuson on Friday 4th July 2008 to discuss several issues that the supporters had raised at the Meet the Manager meeting earlier in the week. Progress has been made on the following issues so far:

Supporters representation on the Club Board (see story above)
Season ticket and gate prices (see story above)
Club Badge - David Allan has researched that the club badge has changed over the years. There used to be an image that represented the mining industry which was so prominent in Cowdenbeath. It was agreed a detailed picture or similar should be sought so that the original design could be reinstated for the future.
Club Bar/Lounge - (1) It was agreed that the Club would review its bar pricing and come back with new proposals that would take on board the Supporters Club comments. (2)The Club agreed to put in place trained bar staff. (3) Innovate agreed they will provide pies and sandwiches on match days in the lounge so that the Supporters Club can invite opposing Supporters Clubs for hospitality. (4) The Club agreed to make players available to visit the Supporters Club in the Lounge on match days. (7 July 2008)
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Club Statement

Chairman Gordon McDougall officially tendered his resignation to the Cowdenbeath Football Club Board on Wednesday 2nd July 2008, after several days of discussions. Gordon felt his position was unsustainable because of the new management appointments. The Board are disappointed at losing Gordon but fully understand and respect his decision, which couldn't have been an easy position for him to take after his many successful years at the club.

Cowdenbeath Football Club and everyone associated with it owe a great debt to Gordon as it's clear that without Gordon McDougall's efforts and support over the years Cowdenbeath Football Club may not have been around today.

Innovate Cowdenbeath Limited would like to also thank Gordon for firstly giving them the opportunity to acquire his shareholding, then his subsequent unrelenting commitment since the sale took place. Only Gordon could have continued working so hard for the club despite having relinquished his major shareholding, and for this we thank and respect him sincerely and regret his resignation, but wish him and his family a long and happy future. It is the Board's intention to mark Gordon's long and successful association with Cowdenbeath Football Club in some way in the future.

The Board have no immediate plans to appoint a new Chairman at this time and will engage in consultation before making an announcement.

Naturally there are other people, because of their loyalty to Gordon McDougall and Brian Welsh, who are either considering their positions or have already left the club. These positions are and will be filled to keep the continuity of the club operations and the restructured youth teams.

The Board would like to also highlight that although this is a turbulent time as the club reshapes with some people leaving and others arriving, it should be recognised there is absolute commitment from Innovate Cowdenbeath Limited to continue with the forward progression of the club in all aspects of its business.

The Board (6 July 2008)

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Pre-season update

Cowden opened their pre-season programme in convincing style this afternoon with a 5-1 win over East of Scotland Premier Division side Edinburgh City at Peffermill.

Manager Danny Lennon utilised most of his squad by fielding two line ups in either half. The first half squad saw quite a few trialists in the line up as well as new signings Sandy Hodge and Brian Fairbairn. The only goal of the opening 45 minutes came on the half hour when youth player Steven McDonald slotted home a low shot from a Ramsay cross.

Edinburgh City drew level after 65 minutes when Robbie Ross took advantage of a defensive lapse but four minutes later Cowden restored their lead when a corner from new boy Derek Fleming was headed home by Dene Droudge. As Cowden took a firm grip of the game Paul McQuade added a brace in a seven minute spell before Jon Robertson added a fifth goal with ten minutes remaining.

TEAM (1st half): David Hay, Trialist, Trialist, Sandy Hodge, Trialist, Trialist, Mark Ramsay, Brian Fairbairn, Trialist, Steven McDonald, Kenny Adamson.

(2nd half): David Hay, Matt Lynch, Dene Droudge, Andy Traub, Gary Cennerazzo, Jay Shields, Trialist, Jon Robertson, Derek Fleming, Paul McQuade, Mark Boyle.

Next up is a trip to Innerleithen on Monday night for a friendly against Vale of Leithen at Victoria Park. Vale of Leithen, one of the Scottish Borderers oldest clubs, play in the East of Scotland 1st Division. Kick-off 7.15pm.

Vale of Leithen (away) - Monday 7th July, kick off 7.15pm

Whitehill Welfare (away) – Wednesday 9th July, kick off 7.15pm

Dundee (home) – Saturday 12th July, kick off 3pm

Dundee United (home) – Saturday 19th July, kick off 2pm

(5 July 2008)

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Edinburgh City v Cowden

Cowden kick-off their pre-season programme tomorrow afternoon against East of Scotland side Edinburgh City. Danny Lennon will take a 22 man squad through to the Capital for a match against a team who lost out to Annan Athletic in the race for SFL membership earlier this week.

New signing John Gemmell will miss the game as he is currently on holiday while Mark Baxter and John Dempster are not quite ready for match action after recovering from injury. John O'Neil may not be risked after picking up a slight knock in training. Assistant Manager Brian Hamilton will also miss the game as he is in Icleand attending former team mate David Winnie's wedding.

The friendly will take place at Peffermill, Edinburgh University's playing fields, with a 2pm start. (4 July 2008)

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Beaky on the mend

The Club received a great boost this week with the news that Mark Baxter can restart light training following a lengthy lay-off. Baxter has only played 10 minutes of competitive football since October after picking up a foot injury and the team badly missed their influential skipper last season.

"I am delighted that Beaky has received the all clear from the specialist. He is a great asset, both on and off the park, and will be a key player for us this season", commented Danny Lennon.

Baxter began his career with St. Johnstone and made his debut in the SPL as a 17-year old. The talented right-back joined up at Central Park in 2005 after falling out of favour at McDiarmid Park and was appointed Club Captain following the departure of Innes Ritchie in 2006. (4 July 2008)

Latest News brought to you in assocition with Adam Smith College.

SFL newcomers

Cowden will face Annan Athletic on the opening day of the new season after the Galabank side secured entry to the Scottish Football League today following a vote by all 29 SFL clubs at Hampden Park. The team from Dumfries and Galloway, who will replace Gretna, will make their league debut at Central Park on Saturday 2nd August.

Annan Athletic, who are managed by former Brechin City stalwart Harry Cairney, finished 7th in the East of Scotland league last season. The club fought off competition from Spartans, Edinburgh City, Preston Athletic and Cove Rangers to gain entry to the Irn Bru 3rd Division.

Congratulations and a warm welcome to Annan Athletic from all at Central Park. (3 July 2008)

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