KENNETH BRANNAN, of Lowson Avenue, Carnoustie, read an article in the Tele in which Bluebells secretary Larry Duncan asked for local people to turn up in large numbers to cheer on Lochee in a match against Whitburn, which they had to win to guarantee their survival in the Super League.
“I attended that match and it seemed there was a bigger than usual crowd for a league match — which Lochee won,” said Kenneth.
“I have been a regular at Lochee’s home matches this season and, despite not winning the league, I’ve been impressed at what I have seen and what fans get for their money at Thomson Park.
“The standard of football in this Super League is much higher than I expected. It is fiercely competitive.
“That United won it last season, coupled with the fact they had a great run in this season’s senior Scottish Cup, made them the team all their opponents wanted to beat.
“Other teams raised their game when playing Lochee, so crowds at Thomson Park saw better — and more competitive — matches.
“Manager Ray McKinnon always tries to get his team to play open, attractive football. They always play to win.
“On another theme, it costs just £5 admission for Super League matches. On match days at Thomson Park, you can get a decent hot pie, chips and a cup of tea for £2.20 at their excellent shop and snack bar, served by the friendly ‘Blue Belles’. There are also several hostelries nearby for an after-match pint at very reasonable prices.
“So, for £10 (give or take a few coppers), you can watch a decent match — free from any sort of crowd trouble — and get fed and watered.
“Secondly, the facilities at Thomson Park are better than yesteryear.
“For example, there is a decent-sized shed to stand in if the rain comes on, and the toilet facilities are very good.
“Although I am a Rangers fan, I doubt if I’ll ever attend senior football again because I feel fans are exploited.
“If the Ibrox outfit can afford to pay the likes of Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor around £25,000 per week — even when they’re not playing — then Rangers don’t need my money.”
WELLINGTON’S DUNDEE CONNECTION
Davy Gollan, formerly of Kirkton, Dundee, sent in this photo (below) from 1974 of Australian club Wellington City FC’s Dundee connection.
Back row — Dave McDonald (sadly, deceased) and Davy Gollan. Front — Peter Brown and Colin “Tush” McDonald.
Davy is coming over to Dundee this month, while Colin will return home for a holiday in August.
THE JOHN McINALLY COLLECTION: PART IV.
The second-last photo (below) in John McInally’s collection is of the ST JOSEPH'S JUNIOR FC team, which was taken at Craigie Park in season 1945-46.
Back row (from left) — Pat Brady, Punter Dunn, Alec Webster, Charlie Beattie, Bill Baxter, George de Gernier.
Front row — Frank Cocozza, Podle Forbes, Mo Henderson, Matt Conway, John McInally.
Referring to a previous photo from his series (March 20), John came back on to say that, unfortunately, Davie Mitchell died recently.
“That leaves just me and Bernard Dillon still alive from that ST MARY’S LOCHEE PRIMARY SCHOOL team (from around 1934),” said John, of Milton Street, Monifieth.
“I’ve also had some great feedback regarding the photos, with interest from as far afield as Australia and Canada.”
