In this section the management team will give their weekly view, including post and pre match analysis etc.

Cowden v Stirling Albion

Pre-match analysis

Stirling have done well recently and have put together a good run of results since we last met in August. This will be a completely different game and we have to put it to the back of our mind. The boys will take confidence from the perforamance and result but the foucs will be on what is required tomorrow to take three points. Stirling are a quality side with lot of experience at this level so we will have to be on our toes. We let our standards slip last week and will need to up our game if took get a result on Saturday.

Stranraer 1 Cowdenbeath 0 (23/9/06)

We defended ok but I thought we were unusually very poor offensively. We were no way up to our usual standard and did not create nearly enough opportunities. The boys were very disappointed with the performance and no that more is expected of them.

We must remember though that it is a young team so inconsistency can be a problem.But the boys have done brilliantly on so many occasions and I sure Saturday was just a dip that has to be expected now and then.

On the plus side Morgaro Gomis returned to action against Stranraer and played for an hour. He has shown no reaction and will be available for Satruday's game.

 

The long and winding road

Forfar Athletic 1 Cowdenbeath 1 (16/09/06)

I was delighted with the 99% of the performance but obvioulsy disappointed with the result. We played really well in the first half and should have scored more than the solitary strike from 'Buchs'. I felt we were still just the better team after the interval and that a second goal would have killed the game. But we payed the penalty when we failed to defend a cross ball properly with two minutes remaining.

It is a game we should have won and with results going our way elsewhere it was an opportunity lost. It is a sign of our progress, however, that we departed Station Park disappointed with a draw.

Stranraer - pre match analysis

This will be a tough one. Gerry Britton's team have had two disappointing results recently but have already proved they can compete in this division with impressive wins over Ayr United and Brechin.

Players such as Michael Moore and Alex Burns are top notch at this level. David Hamilton is the league's top scorer and Paul McMullen will pose us a threat with his crossing ability.

We will need to be at our best and we have been working hard this week to eradicate aspects of our play that ultimately cost us three points last week. The boys are determined to do well this season and do you all proud.

Our injury situation is still not great but is slowly improving thanks to the recent break from midweek fixtures. I was pleased to have a few boys back in the side last week but we were forced to have players on the bench who were not fully fit. I will not know my final line-up for this weekend until a number of late fitness tests.

Thanks again for your fantastic support at Forfar.

Mixu targets three points

Cowdenbeath 1 Morton 2 (9/9/06)

This was a good game of football but obvisouly not the result or performance we were looking for.

We missed a few key players and did not perform in the first half. We gave Morton a two goal start which you cannot afford to do. We improved in the second half and made a game of it and were unlucky in not to take a point in the end.

Overall, we did not play well enough and Morton deserved to win.

Pre match analysis - Forfar Athletic

This is a game we are looking to win to keep the pressure up at the top end of the table. We have to approach the game in the proper manner and play better than last week if wer are going to achieve our aim.

Forfar are a good side and have some particularly dangerous players in the forward areas. We will have to be on our toes defensively but if we keep a clean sheet I am more than confident that we have the firepower to win the game.

On the injury front, we are struggling a bit again. Five players are doubtful but hopefully one or two will make it. We are struggling to get sixteen fit players at the moment but it is a real bonus to have David Hay and Dougie Hill available again.

Believe the hype

Cowdenbeath 4 Peterhead 2 (3/9/06)

Very pleased with the victory and the three points. Peterhead have some extremely good players and I am expect to see them move off the bottom of the league very soon so I am delighted.

I felt we did not play up to standard in the first half. We went 2-0 up and should have gone on from there to win the game comfortably but we let Peterhead back into through mistakes at the back.

The second half was a different story. We controlled play from kick-off and and really looked the part. We created many opportunities and gave nothing away.

Pre match analysis - Morton

This will be an interesting contest with the visit of the league leaders. There has been a lot of hype this week and everyone is looking forward to Saturday. People are anticipating an open, entertaining game with goals and I agree. I think it will be a cracking game between two attack minded teams playing football the way it should be.

The question is how we will cope against full-time professionals? We will see but we should have no fears as the boys have have proven that they can compete with the best. If we play to our potential I am confident of getting a positive result. If not, we will not deserve anything.

The boys are up for it and looking forward to running out in front of a large home support.

On the downside, we have a number of injury worries at the moment. I will have a clearer idea of who will be fit tomorrow before finalising the line up.

Thanks again for the magnificent support on Sunday. I hope the town comes out in numbers on Saturday for this big game and the team can send you all home proud.

Sunday service

Raith Rovers 1 Cowdenbeath 3 (26/8/06)

I thought our performance in the first half was fantastic and the scoreline did not reflect our dominance. We were back to the level of sharpness of previous games and created many clear cut chances. I was not so happy with the second half display but delighted with the way we finished the game in the last five minutes. It was good to get back to winning ways and important to win the first derby of the season. I must also mention the support which was awesome and truly inspiring for the players.

Morton 3 Cowdenbeath 2 (29/8/06)

I made five changes for the cup tie but it was still a strong team that lined up. The players who came in are capable of holding their own in this division and in no way weakened the team. We started the game poorly though and left ourselves with a mountain to climb by defending poorly in the first fifteen minutes. We can’t defend like that if we hope to win games and must have more care with our passing.

To come away to a top side like Morton and find yourself 3-0 down so early could easily see heads drop. But the players refused to be beaten and rolled their sleaves up. We spoke about things at half-time and the players showed a great improvement in the second half. I was proud of the players as it took great determination and self-belief to fight back and we almost took the tie to extra time.

Once again, I must make comment about the backing the boys received. At 3-0 down we could still hear that you were firmly behind the team and the boys really appreciated the ovation at full-time despite the result.

Pre match analysis - Peterhead

The league is our priority and this is a massive game on Sunday. I fully expect Peterhead to be up their challenging at the end of the season. They have started slowly but also did so last season and only lost out in the play-offs. The players will have to be at their best but they are really up for the game. I will be looking for a repeat of the performance in the first half against Raith.

We are nursing some more knocks from Tuesday and the boys will need plenty of rest this week as playing twice a week is a toll order for part-time players.

Derby tonic

Cowdenbeath 1 Brechin City 3 (19/8/06)

A very disappointing result for us. We looked a little tired after the pressure of additional midweek games. It took its toll and was apparent is our play. We were not as sharp and our passing was not up to the expected standard.

In saying that, I thought we deserved to be leading at half-time and really should have gone on to win the game. We had chances to be more than a goal up but did not take them. Individual errors then cost us goals and the match was out of our reach.

Cowdenbeath 0 Falkirk 5 (22/8/06)

Again very disappointing. If you play an SPL side of the quality of Falkirk you must take your chances. We created good openings and had to take these chances. We didn't do that and were heavily punished.

We failed to take chances in both halves. If we had converted these it would have put pressure on Falkirk. This failure allowed them to keep possession and pick us off late in the game.

After the lethargic display against Brechin I decided that it was imperative for us to change things around. I wanted to rest players in certain areas and we also had a number of niggly injuries. The league is our priority and it is important that we are fresh for the trip to Stark's Park on Saturday. But I did not feel that we were weakened by the changes as the four boys that came in are quality players.

Pre match analysis - Raith Rovers

This will be a fantastic match. A derby match in front of a big crowd is the perfect tonic and we are all looking forward to the game with great anticipation.

I am looking for a positive reaction from the boys. They now know that they can perform in this league and need not fear anyone. I am looking for the boys to regain their previous sharpness and relax and play our attacking style of play. We will create chances and it is vital we convert them.

Raith are a strong team and will by buoyed by their win away to Peterhead last weekend. They have some real danger men up front in Ian Harty and, of course, big Armand.

We have a few players suffering from niggly injuries so we will assess them later in the week. Dougie Hill is getting fitter every day and will hopefully be ready to rejoin full training a perhaps play a bounce game in a few weeks. David Hay is also still a few weeks away from fitness.

Keep it going

Ayr United 0 Cowdenbeath 4 (12/8/06)

This was a really good performance from every department of the team. Ayr United are a quality side, as they proved again on Tuesday night by knocking Livi out of the Challenge Cup, so I was delighted to come away with such a comprehensive result on their own patch - particularly on such a large playing surface. It was a different game from what we are used to but very much a deserved victory.

Cowdenbeath 4 Stirling Albion 0 (15/8/06)

Stirling are a team I like alot. They have pace throughout their team, experience in the right places and can hurt any team. But we really showed how well we can play as a team and every player was fantastic.

To score 4 goals again was outstanding. We were very creative and deadly in front of goal. It is particularly pleasing to see the midfield and forwards sharing the goals.

A special mention must go to Chris Hughes. The boy is only 17 but he put in another mature performance. He is well developed for his age and real potential. He is aware though that he has a lot to learn.

We have been drawn against Morton in the second round. This is a brilliant draw in my opinion as you always want to test yourself against the top teams. Morton are full-time and have some excellent players.

Pre match analysis - Brechin City

I fancy Brechin as one of the main contenders for the league. They are a strong team physically and have talented players. They might not have had the best of starts but the boys know exactly what to expect and am I looking for them to keep the good form of recent week going.

I am looking forward to seeing two familiar faces in John Ward and Michael O'Neill. Wardy was a very important part of the team last season and I am sure he will get a warm reception from the fans. Michael was only with us for a short time but was of great assistance to me. It will be good to see them both again.

On the injury front, I am pleased to say that Dougie Hill has now resumed light training with the squad. We will see how things are in a couple of weeks time. Davie Hay will see the doctor in the next week or two and will hopefully get the all clear to return to action.

Pre match analysis - Falkirk

We have a very ambitious and young team. This will be a competitive game against an SPL team that is riding high in the top league so will give the players the chance to test themselves against some of the best players in the country. For me, this game is a reward for the players - richly deserved.

Cowden fly the flag

Alloa Athletic - pre match analysis

We are all desperate for the new season to get underway. This is what we have been working towards for the last six weeks. The boys are fit and feel good. They are comfortable with the system we are going to play and are ready for action.

Alloa will be tough opponents - as will all the teams in the division. They have a good mix of youth and experience and have improved greatly as a team since Allan Maitland came in.

David Hay picked up a hand injury towards the end of last season which was aggravated during the close season. He has had surgery and will be available for selection again in the coming weeks. Davie is an important player for us but I have every confidence in David Orr. Dougie Hill will be out for a couple of month with a broken ankle following a clash in the pre-season friendly with East Fife earlier in July. Apart from Davie and Dougie I have a full squad to choose from including Mark Baxter who has returned from holiday.

East Stirling - pre match analysis

Shire have strengthened their team and will be very organised under Gordon Wylde. Many people may view this as any easy game but we will treat the opposition with the respect they deserve. We must approach the game properly. We were knocked out of the three cup competitions last season at the first time of asking so we will be looking to improve on that starting with East Stirling and then Stirling Albion in the Challenge Cup next week.

 

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SEASON 2005/06

Cowden ready for the challenge

Queen's Park 2 Cowdenbeath 2 (22/4/06)

As expected, Billy Stark's team gave us a good game and I was pleased to come away with a draw in the end which means a the championship is still in our own hands with a game to go.

I was delighted with the response of the players to come back twice from a goal down. Queen's dominated much of the first half but I felt that we regained control in the second half. Although we were hanging on towards the end of the game.

Elgin City - pre match analysis

We know what we have to do. The boys had a final training session on Thursday night and are well prepared for this difficult fixture. We have defeated Elgin three times this season but this will be a different game altogether with so much at stake for both clubs. The boys are ready though and know what is expected of them. They have been marvelous for me all season and have given the fans a team to be proud of. They won't let anybody down that is for sure. Hopefully the fans will be celebrating on Saturday night.

Advantage Cowden

Cowdenbeath 5 East Stirling 0 (15/4/06)

I was really pleased with the performance and result last Saturday. We passed the ball extremely well and our offensive play was first class. We started the game well and approached the game in the correct manner and the boys were rewarded with an early goal. I felt we had been a bit nervous in our play in the previous two games but the goal really settled the nerves and allowed the team to relax and play our normal game. Overall very pleasing but, in particular, the second half performance was outstanding.

You can’t ask for much more than five goals and a clean sheet. The whole team did their job but special mention has to go to the front three. I was pleased for Armand to score his first senior hat-trick after his prediction on this site last week. I hope he has made another positive prediction for the Queen’s game! He is not fully fit yet but has worked very hard and deserves great credit for his performances and scoring ratio. David took his goals superbly and is on a great run at the moment while Liam may not have scored but he put in a fantastic display with a number of assists.

The fans were also fantastic. It was a great to see a large crowd and the vocal support really inspires the players.

Queen's Park - pre match analysis

This will be a really tough one. We may have won 6-0 at Central Park recently but this means nothing now. I have spoken to the players and they fully understand how difficult this game will be and are in no way getting carried away. Billy Stark’s team are very useful and are one of the best footballing teams in the division. They had a great result away to Stenny last week and have hopes of a play-off place. With this in mind we will have to be at our best and stick to our passing game. The surface at Hampden will suit our game and it is always a great occasion to play at the National Stadium. In saying that it will mean nothing to the players if they lose. Make no mistake about it we will be going all out for the win.

Three is the magic number

Cowdenbeath 2 Albion Rovers 1 (8/4/06)

This victory took us to the top of the league for the first time this season and I cannot credit the players enough for finding the energy to dig out another big result. The players were absolutely knackered after the game. Taking these mitigating factors into account, the performance was not up to our usual standards but I felt we were more relaxed than last Tuesday against the Shire. As expected, a fine Albion Rovers side gave us a difficult game and put the boys under real pressure by scoring the opening goal. I felt we regained control of the game in the second half and the boys were rewarded for their courage and determination with two late goals to win the match. We missed a few good chances earlier perhaps due to anxiety but David McKenna produced two great finishes to secure top spot.

East Stirling - pre match analysis

We have now put ourselves in the position that if we win our three remaining games we will be promoted. However, we must focus on each challenge individually, starting with Saturday against East Stirling, if we are to achieve our season long ambition of winning the league. It is a simple as that.

Shire will be no easy opponents. As I predicted in the build up to our last meeting, they would not be pushovers as the team is fighting for their lives to avoid the wooden spoon. Since our last meeting they have also recorded a fine win over our neighbours East Fife so they come into this game with extra confidence. I feel it is critical that we score the first goal. In previous weeks this has not been the case which has led to anxiety spreading throughout the team and forced passes. It also adds extra demands both physically and psychologically . The boys must focus on this game and not let their minds drift to the bigger picture. If they do that and give me the level of application and performance they have displayed for 99.9% of the season we will be ok.

Once again I would call on all Cowden fans to come out in numbers and continue to give us your fantastic support.

Final push begins in earnest

East Stirling 1 Cowdenbeath 1 (4/4/06)

We never really played during Tuesday's game with the Shire. The game came too quickly after the Stenny game and didn't give the boys enough time to settle down. This made me apprehensive about this game. I tried to talk to the players but another midweek fixture mean't it was not possible to have much time to prepare. In the event we never really settled, appeared nervous and did not take time or care in our play. It was almost like two completely different teams on the Saturday against Stenny and Tuesday. The fact we have had to play seven games in twenty one days played a large part in the performance. Not many full-time teams could have coped with this heavy schedule so I am delighted with the way the boys have acquitted themselves over the period and cannot praise them enough. I am very pleased with the point and this could prove decisive on the final day when the prizes are handed out. I am also pleased for Paul McBride who scored his first senior goal.

Albion Rovers - pre match analysis

Jim Chapman's team will once again provide us with a very difficult fixture. Despite their lowly league position they have some excellent players. They are a young technically gifted and quick team. We will need to be at our best and I am looking for the fans to play their part and give the team that extra boost. The support in the last couple of game at Ochilview and Firs Park was amazing and all the players and backroom staff greatly appreciate it. Saturday's game is the first of the final quartet of fixtures and I firmly believe if we win them all we will finish top. We must focus on the old cliche of one game at a time though and concentrate on this Saturday's task in hand.

Both Innes Ritchie and Markus Paatelainen will once again be unavailable for Saturday. Innes is making progress and should be available for selection soon while with Markus we must just wait and see. Gary Fusco will miss one match due to suspension. Kevin McBride and Graham Guy missed the game on Tuesday due to niggling injuries. I did not risk them for the fear of losing them for the rest of the season but we will assess their fitness on Saturday morning. We have a few others struggling with similar niggles including David Hay. David has been troubled with a thigh injury in recent games. As a result, and the departure of Dave Baikie as manager of Bo'ness United, I have recalled Andy Carlin. It is important to have two fit keepers and Andy is an excellent goalkeeper and will be an able deputy if required. For the first time in weeks we will be afforded the luxury of a midweek break and this will give time for injuries to heal with light training sessions rather than competitive action.

Thanks again for your wonderful support.

Aiming for the top

Stenhousemuir 1 Cowdenbeath 2 (1/4/06)

This was an important result for us and a good all round team performance. We started brightly and showed a good appetite for the game. I thought we were very unfortunate to find ourselves a goal down on the balance of play. However, I was very disappointed with the goal we conceded and felt it was sloppy on our part. I could not see if the ball crossed the line from the touchline but none of the players protested. Once again we showed real character to equalise quickly and capitalise on our superior possession to take the lead. We then proceeded to dominate and create a number of good chances. We could not find the killer goal though and almost paid the penalty in the final minute. Luckily David Hay pulled off a great save to secure the three points. I was extremely pleased once again with the offensive display from the midfield and strikers and have been delighted with the number of chances we have created and converted in recent weeks.

East Stirling - pre match analysis

People may think this will be any easy game for us but as far as I am concerned this will be far form the case. East Stirling will have aspirations of moving off bottom place and will battle for every ball. We will have to be professional and approach the game in the right manner if we are to achieve our aim of three points. I have stressed to the players the importance of being professional and continuing to display the correct application. We know that a victory will take us to the top of the table and give us a good shot at the title but now is not the right time to look at the bigger picture. Our aim has to be simply to pick up three points tomorrow and move to top place. We will then have four games where our aim, on a game to game basis, will be to remain there. It is being top at the end of the season that matters. Stenhousemuir and Berwick also have a great chance of finishing top so it will be an exciting three way race. In the meantime we are fully focused on the game at Firs Park and the players must focus on making the right runs and passes.

Innes will once again be absent due to his calf injury and we have three or four others struggling with knocks picked up at Ochilview.

Third Division thriller

Cowdenbeath 5 Elgin City 2 (28/3/06)

I was pleased to pick up the three points in a game that was a potential banana skin for us. Elgin were difficult opponents and have great spirit and good footballers. I was not so pleased with the way we started the game - particularly our sloppy defending. The defensive display did not merit the 5-2 victory but I can't be overly critical as the defence has been exceptional for most of the season. We must cut this side to our recent game out though as we move into the business end of the season. The midfield and strikers did their job and linked up excellently to create numerous chances. I was delighted to score five goals and the quality of the goals were out of the top drawer. Once again the strikers were amongst the goals which has been a pleasing feature in recent weeks.

Stenhousemuir - pre match analysis

This is a big match for everyone at Central Park. A trip to face the league leaders is always a special occasion but with only six games to go adds to the importance. I must stress though - this game is no title decider. There is a third team in the equation, Berwick Rangers, who have just as much a chance of claiming the championship. We have put ourselves in a great position and the results over the next month will decide the destiny of the big prize. To add to the excitement two of the teams will also have a play-off place at the end of the season to look forward to! We had a training session tonight and the boys look sharp and are raring to go. I will be looking for the boys to start the game better than Tuesday, tighten up at the back and continue were we left off from an offensive point of view. The game should be an interesting encounter between two attacking and in-form teams. On the injury front Innes is doubtful again but we will give him every chance to prove his fitness.

Potential banana skin

Montrose 0 Cowdenbeath 3 (18/3/06)

It was very important for us to bounce back after the poor performance against Berwick. We certainly did that and played very well. It was night and day from the previous week and I was especially pleased with the midfield - who were excellent. We restricted Montrose to one chance - when they hit the post in the first half - and dominated possesion throughout. We took our goals very well and in fact could have scored a few more.

Cowdenbeath 4 East Fife 1 (21/3/06)

I asked the boys to give me the same kind of performance as the display at Links Park and they answered my call and produced the goods. It was an excellent team performance. We scored early on and looked to be in total control. Only a lapse in concentration let East Fife back into the game but two goals before half time finished the game. I was pleased to see Armand One' score his first goal on his home debut. Armand's fitness is improving all the time and his first touch and link up play has been one of the reasons for the improved midfield performances.

Cowdenbeath 4 Arbroath 2 (25/3/06)

We knew this would be an extremely difficult game as Arbroath are one of the better team in the division. We started the game very well though and deservedly scored another early goal and played some good football. We stopped playing for a period and allowed Arbroath back into the game with them actually taking the lead right after the interval. Thankfully we equalised within a minute and I felt we were in total control from this moment and ended up comfortable winners. Again this was a good team performance but I was particulary pleased to see all three strikers getting their name on the scoresheet. Buchs has been in tremendous form for us and David Mckenna is improving with every game.

Elgin City - pre match analysis

Make no mistake about it this is a potential banana skin for us and we must keep to the high standards we have set ourselves if we want the three points. Elgin are a much improved side under the stewardship of Brian Irvine and are vying for a play-off place. I am expecting a much tighter game than the last time we met. Although we won 4-0 on that occassion this game will be totally different. It is up to us though. If we play as we can and keep possession and create and take chances as we have in recent weeks we will be ok. This is another big game for us. We have seven coming up and I have every confidence in my players. It is up to them to focus on every game with the reward being the title.

Innes Ritchie is our only new injury worry. Innes picked up an injury against East Fife and had to be substitued before halt-time on Saturday. He is struggling to be fit for the next two games but we will give him every chance.

Must do better

Berwick Rangers 1 Cowdenbeath 0 (11/3/06)

We went into this match with high expectations on the back of our good form the previous month. This made the performance all the more disappointing. We never played and our passing was very poor. Definetely one of the worst showings from the boys in my time at Central Park and for once their application was not right. As I have stressed many times we cannot afford to start matches sluggishly or we will pay the penalty. We allowed Berwick to get on top early on and they held their lead reasonably comfortably for the remainder of the match.

Montrose - pre match analysis

I will be expecting the boys to get straight back to form this weekend and we will be travelling to Links Park looking for the win. We must start the game well, pass the ball to our usual standard, get back to creating chances and ultimately take those chances. Montrose will provide difficult opposition though. They are an improving team with good professionals. They have good pace in the wide areas and can supply good crosses for the front men. We will need to be on our guard and show the level of application required.

Mark Baxter is struggling for Saturday due to the knock he picked up at Shielfield. He will travel with the squad and have a fitness test before the game. I am happy to report that Markus is making good progress. He had his stitches removed this week and is now walking without the aid of crutches.

East Fife - pre match analysis

On Tuesday (21st March) we face near neighbours East Fife in a rearranged fixture. This game will take care of itself as the players are always up for the derby. East Fife have proved themselves to be a good team and have the upper hand over us this season. This is something we must put right but will not be easy as they are competing for a play-off place. Our last meeting at Central Park ended with a pleasing performance and a good 3-1 win. I will be looking for the boys to produce a repeat of that performance and another three points to keep the pressure on the top two.

 

Mixu looking to carry good form into March

Berwick Rangers - pre match analysis

It has been frustrating that the team has been sidelined for the last fortnight due to the adverse weather. We have been in great form in recent week and we are all champing at the bit to return to action. Berwick will pose us a very difficult game as they are a very experienced team with good pace and are in the promotion race on merit. They started the season on fire but have been a bit inconsistent lately - much like all the teams they have had their ups and downs.

February was a a good month for the team and we go into this game with our confidence high and are looking continue this level of performance. There is no room for complacency though. The fact we have yet to taste victory over Berwick this season only confirms this point. This is a statistic we will be looking to put right on Saturday.

I have no new injuries to report this week and should travel south with a full squad apart from Markus.

Shire up next

Cowdenbeath 6 Queen's Park 0 (18/2/06)

An excellent team performance. We have been playing well in recent weeks without scoring the goals our build up play deserved. I felt a hiding was in the post for somebody and we certainly made a good Queen's team suffer with a great display of finishing. Let's not forget Billy Stark's team was unbeaten in eight games coming into this match. The defence must also take credit for a solid performance. Innes and Wardy set the tone with commanding performances. I decided to bring Innes back in due to his leadership and defensive skills and he justified my decision.

Elgin City 0 Cowdenbeath 4 (25/2/06)

This was a fantastic win for us. Elgin City have been one of the form teams in recent months and were unbeaten in their last four matches and this match was a potential banana skin for us. So it was very pleasing to win convincingly and keep up the pressure on the teams above us. We did not play nearly as well as we can though and did not pass the ball well. At this stage of the season the three points are all important and is the main objective. Again we had some good individual performances and I was pleased to see Mikko looking sharp and finding his form over recent weeks. Chris Hughes, who can play centre half or midfield, was rewarded for his performances with the under 17s with a place on the bench. This is a message for all the young players at the club that they will get their opportunity if they are good enough and display the hunger and correct attitude.

East Stirling - pre match analysis

As with all teams in this division the Shire will pose a threat and will be difficult opponents, particularly at Firs Park. The surface is not the best and will be particularly challenging at this time of year. But it is the same for both teams and I do not expect much pretty football. As I have already stated though at this stage of the season the three points are my main concern. We have the opportunity to regain second place and keep up the pressure on Stenny, who play the same night against Albion Rovers. We must keep to the standards we have set ourself this season and show the right level of commitment otherwise we could come unstuck.

Our only absentee will be Markus. This is a big blow but provides an opportunity for somebody else to come in and stake their claim.

All to play for

Albion Rovers 1 Cowdenbeath 3 (11/2/06)

As expected Rovers gave us a very difficult game. They have some very technically gifted players in midfield and real pace on the flanks and caused us some difficulty in first 45 minutes. It was the proverbial game of two halves. We allowed the opposition to take the initiative and paid the penalty by trailing at the interval. The 2nd half saw an excellent performance from the boys and we could have scored many more than the three goals. All credit to the boys for the turn around but as I have stressed before we must start games better and take the match by the scruff of the neck from the off. Taking the conditions into consideration, the state of the playing surface meant it was impossible for either team to play much football and is not condusive to developing players, I have to be very pleased with the performance and result. I am convinced other teams will drop points against a good Albion side on this difficult surface.

I made a number of changes to the team. Graham Guy returned to the side in the place of Darren McGregor. Graham has had to bide his time to get the opportunity to regain his place but put in an excellent performance which pleased me very much. Marc Millar was restored to the midfield. Marc's experience is vital to our young team as is his range of passing. I also made a change up front to freshen things up with David McKenna taking Stuart Boyd's place. Boydie will score goals for us but felt McKenna was a better option on this occasion. Finally, I resisted the temptation to bring Innes straight back into the team. The central defensive pairing of Wardy and Dougie Hill have been fantastic in recent weeks and felt it would be unfair to make a change.

Queen's Park - Pre match analysis

Queen's are a well organised and good footballing team with an excellent manager in Billy Stark. I know Billy and his style of football very well and should offer no surprises. This will once again be a difficult fixture for us but if we play to our ability we will win the match. A victory would create a bit of a gap between ourselves and the Spiders but I am not interested in looking down. I am only interested in catching the two teams above us. We are approaching the final third of the season and have everything to play for. If we can raise our performances again we have a great chance of winning the league. Stenny are well placed but we have a game in hand and can cut the gap by putting a run together. Berwick and within touching distance and present the first hurdle. The boys know exactly what is required of them and I have every confidence in their abilities to finish first if we can avoid injuries and suspensions.

Mark Baxter returns to the squad following his suspension but we are still without Mauchy and Darren McGregor.

Thanks to the great support once again at Cliftonhill. The reception the players got at half-time despite losing 1-0 really helped fire up the boys for the 2nd half. Your support is alway appreciated. Finally, I would like to offer my congratulations to Liam Buchanan for the reaching the 100 appearance mark.

 

Something has to give

Cowdenbeath 1 Stenhousemuir 1 (4/2/06)

As we had all expected, Stenny provided us with a very difficult game. I was delighted with our approach to the game and overall play. We defended well and created a number of good chances to win the game, most notably Markus's run and shot which rebounded from the post. I am a bit disappointed that we did not win and gain ground on Stenny but overall a draw was probably a fair result.

Once again though our discipline let us down towards the end of the game. I am upset by this and it must stop. We have talked about it again at training this week and I expect to see improvements. We can't afford to have players missing through suspension. Darren has now been sent off three times this season and although he is still young he must learn.

Albion Rovers - pre match analysis

Rovers are a much improved side from our last visit to Coatbridge. This was very evident by their display at Central Park in December when they were unlucky to go down 2-1. I expect a similar game. They have some quick and positive players and we will have to be on our guard. Our attitude will have to be spot on but if we play to the level we reached in the last two games we will have a good chance of a victory. That is our target - no other result but a win will please me. Three points will allow us to keep the pressure on Stenny and Berwick and with those two sides in opposition on Saturday something has to give.

We have three players unavailable due to suspension. Darren McGregor is automatically suspended following his sending off last week and Mark Baxter (2 game suspension) and Iain Mauchlen (3 game suspension) still have one and two games of their suspensions to serve respectively. On a brighter note, Innes Ritchie has now completed his suspension and will travel with the squad to Cliftonhill.

Bring it on

Arbroath 4 Cowdenbeath 1 (28/1/06)

Despite the result I thought the performance for the first hour was fantastic. We passed the ball really well, attacked and created many chances. It was very disappointing that we could not convert the chances our play deserved. We were punished by a very sloppy goal which was down to soft defending which must be rectified. Our discipline in the last 20 minutes was also disappointing and is something we must sort out. We shot ourselves in the foot which gave us no chance with nine men. In support of Mark Baxter though, the action of the supporter involved in the incident was out of order - ridiculous behaviour that should not be tolerated. Mark shouldn't have reacted though and left the referee and the police to take action. It is all done and dusted now and we have to move forward.

Stenhousemuir - pre match analysis

Stenny are top of the table on merit and will give us a very difficult match. They are one of the most experienced teams in the division and have the ability to score against anybody. We must defend well and hopefully create as many chances as we did at Gayfield but show the sharpness required to put the ball in the net. If we do that we can win the game - simple as that. The boys are looking forward to the challenge though and go into the match in a very positive frame of mind. We had a great training session tonight. The boys were buzzing, showed the level of sharpness I am talking about and are ready to get last Saturday's result right out of their system.

Our two new additions, Stuart Boyd and Darran Thomson, go straight into the squad. On the downside we are missing the trio of Innes Ritchie, Mark Baxter and Iain Mauchlen due to suspension.

 

Tough test

Cowdenbeath 2 Montrose 0 (21/1/06)

This was a very pleasing result and performance considering we played almost 50 minutes with ten men. The fact we kept a clean sheet highlights the great shift the boys put in. It is very difficult playing with ten men from a defensive perspective. Offensively it does not make much difference but at the back it can leave you out numbered. So all credit to the boys for the way they defended as a team as they restricted Montrose to few chances. I was pleased to see David McKenna to break his duck which was the result of a fine passing move. David is a born goalscorer and will score many more for us if the team continues to supply chances.

Arbroath - pre match analysis

The trip to Gayfield will be a real test for us. Arbroath showed what a physical side they can be at their last visit to Central Park but are also an experienced and skilful team. They have improved massively since our last trip north and are even improved since the game in December. They have added a number of quality players over the transfer window and will pose a real threat. I am quietly confident though that if we play to our capabilities we can come away with a victory. The boys will have to be focussed though and I am expecting the same level of work rate as the ten men displayed last week.

Darren McGregor and Innes Ritchie are unavailable due to suspension.

 

Looking for another positive performance

Cowdenbeath 1 Berwick Rangers 1 (14/1/06)

Last week was a very positive performance from the boys. Berwick are a strong team and one of the promotion favourites but we were dominate throughout the match which was very promising. We held possession extremely well and created good chances but unfortunately could only score the first goal. I was pleased with the way Mikko and Mckenna linked up and also with their work rate and both will only get sharper in the weeks to come. Overall, it was a point gained as Stenny lost at Gayfield.

Montrose - Pre match analysis

This Saturday sees the visit of Montrose in what will be a tough game. Montrose are difficult opponents who defend well, have good pace up front and are a technically gifted hard working outfit. They have not had the best of starts under their new manager, Eddie Wolecki, but they have added some new players in recent weeks and will be out to make amends for the defeat to the Shire. The boys need to be on their toes and be aware of the threat Montrose will pose on the counter attack. I will be looking for them to start where the left off against Berwick and keep possession and be very positive going forward.

We have a couple of injury worries for the game but will see how they are bearing up tomorrow morning. The boys who missed out last week will also come back into contention. I made a number o changes last Saturday to freshen things up as it is a long season.These guys are important players and have an equal chance of playing. When the opportunity arises for them again it us up to them to prove their worth.

Return to action

East Fife 2 Cowdenbeath 1 (2/1/06)

I was obviously disappointed to lose the game but in general thought we played very well, particularly in the second half. We were very unfortunate not to score more goals as we made numerous chances. If we had been sharper in front of goal we would have gone on to deservedly win the game. I was disappointed with the goals we conceded which were directly down to poor defending. I can't praise the way we have defended in recent months enough but hopefully this will act as a wake up call to the boys that they can not afford to switch off at any time.

Berwick Rangers - Pre match analysis

As we all know from previous encounters, Berwick are a very good side. I am aware that all the talk recently has been on their poor run and lack of goals but all runs, good and bad, have to come to an end. Hopefully not on Saturday though! John Coughlin has put together an excellent team which is proven by their league position. They are very good defensively with an experienced back line and have added two hungry young strikers to their squad. It is going to be a tough game and we will have to return to our normal solid form at the back and be a bit sharper up front. Our new loan signing from St Mirren, David McKenna, is included in the squad and will give us more options going forward.

Sitting Pretty

Stenhousemuir 2 Cowdenbeath 0 (17/12/05)

I was disappointed in the way we started the game at Ochilview. We didn't do enough early on and Stenny were much sharper than us and were rewarded with an early goal. We came back into the game and some good possesion but did not take our chances. Another moment of slackness from a quick free-kick resulted in the second goal just before half-time. I felt we dominated the play after the interval and created two or three guilt edged chances. All that let us down was our final ball and a bit of composure in front of goal.

Overall, I can't complain though. The boys have been fantastic since I came in and to dominate the league leaders on their own patch shows how far we have come on as a team and proves we are genuine contenders. We have won ten out of our last 12 games, a remarkable achievement, and are sitting in a great position in the league at this stage of the season.

East Stirling - Pre match analysis

The Boxing Day fixture with East Stirling will be difficult. despite their current league position. They are fighting for their lives at the moment and don't want to finish bottom again. We need to start the game much brighter, more positive and take our chances. If we play to the standard we have set and show the right application we can win this game and keep the pressure on the teams at the top.

The squad for the upcoming matches this month will be along similar lines but I am confident of adding a number of signing targets in the next week or so. I am also waiting to hear back from Owen Coyle on whether St. Johnstone will extend Andy Jackson's loan deal to the end of the season.

Top of the Table Clash

Cowdenbeath 2 Albion Rovers 1 (3/12/05)

Albion Rovers are an awkward team to play against and were much improved from October. We started the game at to slow a tempo and that gave them the encouragement to cause us problems - including hit the bar twice. We picked up the tempo though late in the 1st half and scored a good goal from Markus. A moment of slackness at the back allowed them back into the game but I was very pleased with our response and to see Liam head in the winner. At the end of the day we deserved the three points and hopefully the team will learn from this - we must start games at a higher tempo.

Cowdenbeath 3 Arbroath 2 (6/12/05)

Arbroath were very physical who troubled us with their direct style of football but good teams have to be able to handle all types of play. In the face of such tactics we must hold possession cope - it is important that we can cope with both the physical and technical side. The boys listened to my appeal to play at a high tempo from the word go andwe started the game well. But as often happens once a team goes down to ten men they lift their game. This is exactly how the game panned out with Arbroath coming back into the game to lead 2-1. The boys responded though and showed real character and will to win to come back and win the game. It was very pleasing to take full points from two difficult home games.

Closed door game - Stirling Albion (14/12/05)

We played a bounce game against Stirling Albion on Wednesday night to give all the boys a run out. It was a good work out and a very usefull exercise.

Stenhousemuir - Pre match analysis

We are all looking forward to this game and are ready for the challenge ahead. This is a big match and we will be going out to win and take over top spot. Win, lose or draw, this game will not decide anything though as there are still many points for both teams to play for so there is no pressure on the boys. We will go out to play our own passing game and see where that takes us. Stennie are a vastly experienced side who are very positive and are capable of scoring against anybody. Both teams play in a very positive style so it should be a real spectacle for the fans.

Back to League Business

Cowdenbeath 0 Morton 3 (26/11/05)

The Scottish Cup tie against Morton was a difficult fixture for us against full-time players, many with SPL experience. I thought we competed well but didn't pass the ball as well as we can and were not as effective in final third as recent weeks. If we had taken our chances early in the 2nd half if may have been a different story but overall I was happy with the way the boys applied themselves and proved we will not be pushovers against anybody. 3-0 definetely flattered Morton but perhaps 1-0 would have been a truer reflection of the game.

Albion Rovers - Pre match analysis

It may be a cliche, but now we are no longer in the cup we can fully concentrate on the league - which is the priority for the club. It is important we win our home games but Rovers will be difficult opponents. I watched them play Partick Thistle recently at Firhill and was impressed with their performance. They played well and scored a good goal so we will have to be on our toes. I am confident, if we defend well and are more ruthless in front of goal than we were last week, that we can get the right result. This is of added importance with Stenhousemuir and Berwick playing each other.

It was great to see Mauchie back in action at the weekend and get a full 90 minutes his after injury. His return to fitness along with John Cusick is a great boost for the team and adds much needed depth to the squad. As reported, Robert Downs will be unavailable in the near future due to his ankle injury. He needs an operation and the sooner this is carried out the sooner Robert will be available for selection. Markus is struggling to be fit for Saturday. He went over his ankle badly last Thursday in training and is a real doubt.

Arbroath - Pre match analysis

Arbroath are our visitors on Tuesday evening. This will be an interesting fixture as Arbroath are in great form at the moment. They have scored a remarkable 11 goals in their last two outings and will be brimming with confidence. Arbroath are well organised and play in a positive manner and have clearly been boosted by the appointment of John McGlashan. We are also in good form though and it is up to us to show the right application and take the game to Arbroath.

 

Full-Time Test

Montrose 0 Cowdenbeath 1 (12/11/05)

That was a great result for us. We might have only won 1-0 but we played really well and controlled the game for the entire 90 minutes. The defence was fantastic again and I can't remember Montrose have a real goal scoring opportunity. Our attacking play was ok but not quite up to the standards we have set ourselves and is an area we can improve on. I can't fault the boys though as they have been fantastic for me. All in all I was very pleased with the performance and three points from a difficult away trip. It was also pleasing to gain some ground on Berwick but we will just concentrate on our own game. If the teams above us slip up then that is a bonus.

Bounce game Vs Falkirk (16/11/05)

We played a bounce game against Falkirk on Wednesday. Falkirk beat us 2-1 in a competitive game with their two goals coming from the penalty spot and Liam Buchanan scoring for us. The match was very useful exercise as Falkirk played a strong team with good quality and the game served its purpose. It gave me the opportunity to run my eye over three trialists and some of the youth players and also gave the opportunity for some of the 1st team squad to get a run out. The two trialists from Sweden played well. The goalkeeper made some good saves and the centre half looked solid. We also played a young Scottish trialist up front. The boy has featured as a trialist for us before and is training with the team. John Cusick also played the full 90 minutes and also trained again tonight which was very pleasing. Cusi just needs games to get his match fitness up. I am trying to organise another game for next week which will also give me the chance to have another look at some trialists.

Morton - Pre match analysis

This will be a tough challenge. Morton are riding high in the 2nd Division at the moment and are scoring alot of goals. They are in quite a similar position to ourselves as they are an attack minded team but are also very solid at the back. Morton are a very strong team and have pace especially coming forward from midfield. They are in very good form at the moment and are coming to Central Park on the back of a very good win last week so their confidence will be high. We can go into the match with confidence as well though if we play to our strengths. The boys are looking forward to testing themselves against full-time opposition.

Iain Mauchlen is once again ruled out while Robert Downs is doubtful with his ankle injury. Andy Jackson also won't be available for selection. I spoke to Owen Coyle but understandably he does not want to have Andy cup tied.

One Game at a Time

Cowdenbeath 3 East Fife 1 (5/11/05)

Another fantastic result and performance. East Fife defended in numbers which speaks volumes for our attacking play in recent months. They allowed us to play the ball about in our own half and made it difficult for us to break them down in the final third. This tactic worked for them in the 1st half as they scored a goal on the break and managed to keep us out. I was very pleased with the way the boys handled the situation of being a goal down and followed my instructions at half-time. The early second half goal was vital and was the turning point in the game. The goal was down to the delivery of Marc Millar and the aerial ability of John Ward and Innes Ritchie. As soon as we equalised I knew they was only going to be one winner. We went on to create many more chances and won comfortably at the end of the day.

Montrose - Pre match analysis

This is a very competitive division and Saturday's trip to Links Park will be another test for us. Montrose will be very difficult opponents. They have loads of pace in attacking areas and they are more than capable of scoring and beating anyone in the division on their day. Their results of late have not been so good but we will have to be at our best to pick up three points. We need to continue to be positive and play our attacking game but also defend as a team. This game is another challenge for the boys. We are taking things one game at a time and can hopefully continue to close the gap on the top two.

On the injury front, only Iain Mauchlen remains sidelined. John Cusick has now regained full fitness and is in the squad for Saturday which is a great boost. Robert Downs is still feeling the effects of his ankle injury but we are hopeful that he will be fit for Saturday.

Raring to Go

Berwick Rangers 1 Cowdenbeath 0 (29/10/05)

We were all very disappointed to lose the game but we created enough chances to win the game. We didn't pass the ball as well as we can but I can't fault the effort and application of the boys. They were up for the game but on the day it didn't happen for us. If we had scored in the 1st half when we had a good bit of pressure I am sure we would have gone on to win the game. We were solid in defence again and I could not see Berwick scoring. I was very disappointed with the decision that led to the goal but sometimes these things go against you and you just have to bite your lip and get on with the next game..

East Fife - Pre match analysis

We are all looking forward to the derby game and these types of fixtures are always special occasions. A win on Saturday would create a healthy gap between ourselves and East Fife but we are not looking behind us. We are focussed on catching the two teams above us and the 3 points would help this cause. Both Berwick and Stenhousemuir will drop points throughout the season and we have to be ready to take advantage. We are also looking to make amends for the disappointing result and performance in the previous derby at Methill. All the boys are raring to go. Their attitude has been spot on and I can't praise them enough. We will be looking to play our own game and continue to attack and create chances with the end product.

A couple of the boys were suffering from flu symptoms earlier in the week but should be ok. Downsy is still feeling his ankle injury that ruled him out last week but I am hopeful he will be available for selection. Liam has made good progress this week and we will make a decision on Saturday.

Again the support at Berwick on Saturday was fantastic and the vocal support is much appreciated. Hopefully we will have a healthy support this week and we can put on an entertaining performance with a positive result.

Biggest Test So Far

Cowdenbeath 5 East Stirling 1 (22/10/05)

A fantastic performance - to score 5 goals against any team is pleasing but East Stirling are a good side as they proved on Tuesday night against Berwick Rangers. The most pleasing aspect is that it is not just the strikers who are scoring. The goals are being shared throughout the team which with the midfield and defenders chipping in. Once again the boys defended well as a unit with the back four solid. We never really gave anything away in terms of clear cut chances apart from the goal. Their goal was due to a lapse in concentration on our part but this can happen sometimes with a healthy lead in place.

Queen's Park 0 Cowdenbeath 2 (25/10/05)

This was a game I was extremely worried about. Billy Stark has Queen's well organised and play a good passing game as they demonstrated to good effect at Central Park earlier in the season. I cannot praise the boys enough though as their performance eased any worries I had. They battled for the entire match - Hampden is a massive pitch so it speaks volume for their attitude and work rate. We played some good football again and also limited the Spiders to a few long range efforts. We were dangerous again in the final third and could have scored more than the two goals and I was pleased to see another clean sheet.

Berwick Rangers - Pre match analysis

This will be the biggest test of the season so far. Berwick are a very good team and are unbeaten. We are going to have to be at our very best if we are to continue our good run of results. We have nothing to fear though and confidence in the team is high. We have won our previous 6 games and scored 19 goals in the process while only conceding two. We will concentrate on our own game and look to attack at the right times whilst keeping it tight at the back.

Iain Mauchlen and John Cusick will again be missing from the squad. Graham Guy is fit to play but Liam will have a fitness test before the game.

Another player who won't be available is Stuart Baird. Bairdy has emigrated to Dubai due to work committments, the club however have retained his registration. I won't be looking to replace Stuart in the short term. I feel we are well covered in defence with the recent signing of Lukas Krobot. I will reasses the situation in January when the transfer window opens again. The window will provide an opportunity to strengthen a number of areas within the team and I have identified a number of players I will be actively seeking to bring to Central Park.

 

Pressure at the Top

Albion Rovers 0 Cowdenbeath 3 (15/10/05)

The 3-0 scoreline sounds like it was an easy game but Albion were difficult opponents. It was the attitude and approach of the players, with the boys showing the correct attitude from the first whistle, that won the game. The early goal, delighted that Downsy scored his first goal, settled our nerves and provided the foundation for a very good performance. Markus added the second. He likes to get forward and will score goals for us. It was a good time to score again right after the break and Ryan finished the game with his fourth goal in as many games. I was delighted to score three goals but can’t praise the team enough for the way they defended. The Albion forwards troubled us early on with their pace but the defence coped and David Hay pulled off some crucial saves. In summary, a great team performance with good individual performances from all involved.

Reserve Cup vs Gretna (18/10/05)

I was disappointed to lose the game but there were many plusses to take from the fixture. We had a young team out there and it was a chance for some of the under 19s to show what they can do against more experienced and mature opposition. They competed well and the match also provided the opportunity for some of the 1 st team squad to get some more match fitness. The reserves will be a predominantly young team this season with the priority on developing young players. We had an 18 year old striker playing his second match as a trialist. He performed well again and has plenty of potential. He will continue to train with us and take it from there.

East Stirling - Pre match analysis

The Shire are a vastly improved team under Dennis Newall this season. Dennis brought in some good experienced signings during the summer including Ally Graham. We will have to be on our toes to win the game and approach the game in the same manner as recent weeks. If were are to have hopes of promotion we will have to beat teams below us in the league and continue to show a ruthless touch in front of goal. This puts a pressure on us to win but the boys will have to show the mettle to deal with this.

We travel to Hampden on Tuesday night looking to increase the distance between ourselves and Queen’s. Billy Stark’s team have looked good this season and will be one of the challengers at the top end of the league.

The squad for Saturday is unchanged from last week. Liam is making progress and will have a fitness test tomorrow morning.

Finally, thanks for the magnificent backing at Cliftonhill last week.

Attitude Must be Correct

Cowdenbeath 4 Stenhousemuir 1 (1/10/05)

The Stenny game was a great result for us and I was delighted with the boy's application. Stenny had a number of good chances in the first 20 minutes but David Hay was in great form for us. This was vitally important and gave the team the confidence to dominate the remainder of the game. The strikers showed the ruthless approach I have been asking for and was reward for the work we have been doing with the strikers in training. It was also a great header from Wardy to score the all imporant second goal. The players showed how much they wanted to win the game and let everybody know that they are no pushovers and can compete with the best teams in the division.

Friendly vs Forfar Athletic (6/10/05)

The boy's played really well against a strong Forfar team and deserved their 1-0 win. It was a great run out for the 1st team players who are on the sidelines at the moment. These players again proved the quality that is in this squad and did their 1st team chances no harm at all. The under 19s who were involved also performed excellently.

Albion Rovers - Pre match analysis

This will not be an easy game. Rovers may be bottom of the league but they have a good young team that works hard and shows plenty of enthusiasm. As you would expect with a young team, though, they have been inconsistent. We must show the initiative and take the game to them and not give their team any confidence. If we show the same attitude as the Stenny game I am confident we will get our reward.

John Cusick and Iain Mauchlen will once again miss out. Liam is making progress on the injury he sustained against Stenhousemuir but will not make this week.

I would like to thank the fans again for their support over the last few weeks. This is appreciated by the players and hopefully we can reward you with the 5000th goal on Saturday.

Focus on our Own Performance

Arbroath 0 Cowdenbeath 3 (24/9/05)

I am happy to say we followed on from last week's performance against Montrose with a good display against Arbroath and are now hopefully moving towards a more consistent level of performance. I was delighted with the way we defended. We defended as a team and never allowed Arbroath the chance to create any real chances. The boys were also very dangerous going forward which has been the biggest improvement in recent weeks. I was very pleased with the performance of the three young strikers with Ryan scoring for the consecutive week and Liam getting a goal to reward his hard work. Goals breed confidence and you can see that in the team at the moment. My only slight disappointment was that we didn't pass the ball as well as recent weeks though much of this was due to the conditions and the long grass.

Stenhousemuir - Pre match analysis

Stenhousemuir are a very experienced team with one of the strongest squads in the division. Des brought in a number of players with experience of playing at a higher level and is reflected in their unbeaten start to the season. We will have to be at our best to get a result and must continue the improvement the boys have shown in recent weeks. I have stressed to the boys this week in training to focus on our own game and abilities rather than the opposition. At the end of the day it will all come down to our performance on Saturday.

The squad will be unchanged from last week with only Iain Mauchlen and John Cusick remaining on the sidelines.

 

More of the Same

Cowdenbeath 2 Montrose 0 (17/9/05)

I was very pleased with the performance against Montrose with the boys carrying on the improvement they displayed against Berwick the previous week. Again, we passed the ball very well but most importantly we were more ruthless in front of goal and scored two good goals. In the first half, with the wind advantage, we dominated most of the play but did not have enough shots on goal. At half-time I asked to boys to be positive and take the game to Montrose despite playing into the wind. I was delighted with their response and we continued were we left off in the 1 st half but managed a lot more efforts on goal, particulary Liam and Andy Jackson. Ryan showed a real poachers instinct to score from a rebound and Guy scored a great free-kick.

Arbroath - Pre match analysis

I am expecting a tough game against Arbroath. Gayfield is a difficult place to go to with the weather conditions not always favourable. I am hoping the wind is not too strong so that we can concentrate on our passing game. If we pass the way have been doing in the last couple of games, I am confident we will get a positive result.

While Arbroath have not had the greatest start to the season they have put in some good performances at home, most notably coming within a minute of beating Stenhousemuir. Like us, they are searching for some consistency.

On the injury front, Iain Mauchlen and John Cusick are still out. Cusick’s fitness is improving and he is starting to pick up the pace in training. I would hope that he will be able to train fully in the next couple of weeks. Robert Downs picked up an ankle knock against East Fife and then aggravated the injury in training. He has now recovered though and will be in the squad for the trip to Arbroath.

Finally, I would like to thank all the fans who turned up on Wednesday.

 

Time to Take our Chances

Cowdenbeath 0 Berwick Rangers 1 (10/9/05)

I was pleased with the performance which was a massive improvement from the display against East Fife. The players responded positively and we can take heart from the fact we more than matched the league leaders. We had 80% of the possession but once again we were not effective enough in the final third and paid the penalty. We defended well for the majority of the game but again lost a soft goal. We need to cut out the silly mistakes and take our chances.

I was also pleased with the performance of new boys Mark Baxter and Andy Jackson and expect more from them as they settle in.

Montrose - Pre match analysis

Montrose will be a difficult fixture but I expect the lads to be up for it and put in the level of performance and committment on display last Saturday. Henry Hall is an experienced manager who has put a useful squad together with a number of quality players. We will need to impose ourselves on the game early on and as I said earlier we need to be more creative and ruthless in the final third and not give away soft goals. We will continue to work away in training to improve the way we play as a team and as individuals. But it is difficult as, with part-time players, you don't have a lot of time to spend with the players on the training ground and that has been the biggest difference for me having been used to full-time football. I I have a good squad of players though who are keen to learn and we just need a few goals and a couple of wins to build confidence.

John Cusick will not be available due to injury while Iain Mauchlen is doubtful following the injury that forced him off at half time last week.

Mixu Looking for Positive Reaction

East Fife 1 Cowdenbeath 0 (27/8/05)

I was very disappointed with the performance against East Fife. Our passing was not of an acceptable standard particularly in the final third. We also need to improve our movement up front and is something we have been working on in training. I was happy with the way we defended though apart from the goal which came about as a result of a mistake on our part. Overall though we limited East Fife to few chances but need to improve in terms of possession play and a cutting edge in the final third.

Bounce game (3/9/05)

We took advantage of the break from competitive football to play a bounce game which gave a number of players some much needed match fitness. The match was a very useful exercise and allowed me to try a few things out and I have now had to chance to see all the players in action. It also gave me the opportunity to take a look at a couple of trialists.

Berwick Rangers - Pre match analysis

Saturday will be a tough game but if we play to our capabilities I am very confident we can get a result. I watched Berwick lose to Stirling Albion in the Cup but they impressed me and their start to the season makes them the form team along with Stenhousemuir. But I am looking for a positive reaction from the lads and to prove they are a much better team than the performance against East Fife would suggest. I will have a full squad available apart from John Cusick, and I am looking forward to having Mark Baxter and Andy Jackson available for selection for the first time.