Player Ratings (vs. Inverness)

Man of the Match

14)  Gareth Armstong (on for Campbell, 10 mins) 9 out of 10

Anyone could have got this award in fairness, Michael McGowan was certainly a strong contender, but 17 year old Armstrong looked comfortable amongst SPL opposition.  Composed in defence, even when beaten for pace, excellent distribution, good positionally and even shows up well going forward, with a couple of forays up the park.  This lad has a bright future.

1) Kevin Cuthbert 7 
Don't remember the keeper having much to do but kept his concentration until the end and provided yet another solid performance.

2) John Robertson 8
Solid and composed as always. Encouraged Armstrong through the game as he organised the back line and snuffed out most of what Caley had to offer going forward.

3) Eddie Malone 8
Some great defending from Malone when called upon and a cool finish to send United through.  Was happy to come forward as Ayr controlled to game.

4) Chris Smith 8
Seemed to grow in confidence throughout the game as Ayr dominated. Threw himself at everything and did well against the experienced Foran.

5) Martyn Campbell 
Lasted just 10 minutes before a knee injury forced him off.  Reid might have been better off resting him as he was suspended on Saturday but hopefully no harm done.
 
6) Andy Geggan 8
Unlucky with a headed chance late on which would have rounded off another good performance in the middle of the park from the former Dumbarton man.
 
7) Micheal McGowan 9
Ayr's main attacking threat all game long.  Inverness simply couldn't cope with the winger, who didn't always get past his man but never gave up. Gareth Wardlaw mush love playing with this guy and when it clicks up front Moff and Roberts could be feasting off the partnership.

8) Jamie McKernon 8
Another composed performance, the St Mirren kid is never panicked.

9) Gareth Wardlaw 8
Gave Caley's Roman Golobart an absolute torrid time which left you wondering if he really was on loan from the English Premier League.  Worked hard as always and could have had a penalty.

10) Mark Roberts 7
Offered a bit of experience to the side .

11) Michael Moffat 7
A quieter game for the Moff, although not without a couple of chances.

Subs:
15) Ross Robertson (on for Moffat, 85 mins) 3
On to run the clock down.

16) Jonathan Tiffoney (on for Roberts, 65 mins) 3
Found it difficult to get into the game.

A very long road home for atrocious Caley as Ayr shine under new floodlights

Wednesday 24th August - Scottish Communities League Cup, 2nd Rnd
Ayr United 1, Inverness Caledonian Thistle 0

The Ayrshire Post's Voice of Reason summed it up nicely: "I think we might have a team on our hands here".

Its a long time since I've see Ayr totally dominate a side the way they did Inverness on Wednesday night - the fact it this was a part-time team in from their work up against SPL opposition making it all the more impressive. This was an entertaining performance that showed that United can convert those impressive performances of late into victories.

Even the early departure of Martyn Campbell, who lasted only 10 minutes before a knee problem forced him off didn't phase Ayr, with Gareth Armstrong coming in at right-back and putting a composed display which defied his youth. The midfield battled and pressed and Michael McGowan put in another performance to wow the Somerset Park faithful. Even Chris Smith had a stormer, defending like a man possessed with the importance of a clean sheet.

Ayr's goal came from a set-piece, an area of our game that has notably improved.  McGowan played the ball in low to the front post where is was flicked on by Mark Roberts into the path of Malone who neatly side-footed home.  Speaking to Kicktalk on Ayr this week, Reid admitted it was an area the side had worked on and with Robertson (both John & Ross), Campbell, Wardlaw and even Geggan able to attack the ball, and some dangerous deliveries coming from the boot of McGowan, Ayr could benefit this season at both ends of the park.

Progress in this competition with the next round seeded guarantees an SPL side in the next side and, notwithstanding some poor attendances in this competition, the potential of a decent pay day that could seriously bolster our chances this season.  There's an incredible positivity about the old place at the moment... long may it continue!

The Opposition
Manager Terry Butcher described the game "the lowest point of his managerial career" and playing Ross Tokely as a holding midfielder must rank as his worst tactical decision. The former England international skipper appears to have a massive job on his hands to prevent Caley sliding back into the First Division.  His side lacked much of anything in midfield and upfront Foran cut a lonely, frustrated figure with no or little support. What they lacked in ideas and a formula to create chances they didn't even make up for in effort or endeavour.  Simply put, Caley didn't fancy this and you've got to wonder if they have enough quality in the squad to turn things round.

Player Ratings (vs. Falkirk)

Man of the Match

6)  Andy Geggan 7 out of 10

The type of midfielder you could easily miss I suppose, but Geggan puts in a power of work in midfield and is a real box-to-box player with an eye for getting forward to support the front line. Ayr United's Steven Gerrard?

1) Kevin Cuthbert 7 
Hugely busy afternoon for the keeper, frantic at times. Coped well under pressure but could have perhaps done better at the second Falkirk goal when faced with a one-on-one.

2) John Robertson 7
Really shaky start saw him give the ball away a number of times but recovered to set up Wardlaw's goal and marshall the back line following Campbell sending off.
 
3) Eddie Malone 7
A steady game from Eddie on his return and a fine free-kick.
 
4) Chris Smith 6
Again looked a little nervous at the back.
 
5) Martyn Campbell 5
Came up against a tough competitor in Farid El Allegui and came off second best, legitimately or otherwise. Lucky he won't face too many like the 'clever' Moroccan this season.

7) Micheal Moffat 7
Puts a shift in the wide midfield position but positionally and defensively not ideal.  Would be better deployed upfront alongside Wardlaw.
 
8) Jamie McKernon 7
The more I see of the this lad the more I like him.  Very tidy in possession, picking the ball up from the back four and uses it well.  Forming a good partnership with Geggan.
 
9) Gareth Wardlaw 7
Has come back to Ayr a much better player.  Will still miss chances but has the experience to work defences and cause trouble. Probably got the better of a tough opponent in Darren Dods and took his goal well.
 
10) Mark Roberts 6
I think Marko might be 'undropable' as far as Brian Reid is concerned but at times its almost like playing a man down, I'm sorry to say. May play a more valuable role as a substitute when games are calling out for a bit of composure or a goal out of nothing.  Didn't have the legs to keep up with a youthful Falkirk side.

11) Michael McGowan 7
Another great performance from the winger, Ayr's main threat going forward. Can go inside or out and has decent delivery into the box as well as a goal threat.  Great acquisition by Brian Reid.

Subs:
14) Gareth Armstrong (on for Wardlaw, 86 mins) 3
Slotted in at right-back as Ayr switched back to four in defence as Falkirk pressed forward in search of winger.

15) Ross Robertson (on for Roberts, 76 mins) 3
Took one for the team when he picked up a yellow to prevent a dangerous looking Falkirk break.

Rodney Marshall's flag ensures a fair point

Saturday 20th August - Irn-Bru First Division
Ayr United 2, Falkirk 2

[Note: I starting writing this post before the Ill Firm embarrassed nobody but themselves last night]

Can Scottish football really get any worse? asked STV. "Another night of Euro despair marks a new low for our game. There are no excuses, and few words left to describe it" wrote Ronnie Esplin.  What a load of hyperbolic nonsense. After Saturday's thrilling game in the Somerset sun, not too many of the 1938 supporters in attendance would agree, or probably care.  It was a fantastic game, and although a slew of missed chances and controversially disallowed goal suggests Falkirk were unlucky not to win, provided yet more evidence that United can hold their own in this division.

Ayr started badly and Falkirk were ahead after just 8 minutes.  Michael Moffat, demonstrating why wide midfield isn't his best position, was caught in possession on the right and the ball was threaded through Ayr's back four for Kallum Higginbotham.  Smith came across to challenge the former Rochdale man but was easily beaten as Higginbotham turned inside coolly curled the ball past Cuthbert into the bottom right hand corner.

United's defence was all over the place, with even the classy John Robertson looking uncomfortable in the face of Falkirk's youthful exuberance.  After 11 minutes Falkirk should have been two ahead. Another botched quick free kick routine - I wish Brian Reid would give up on this tactic - and 16 year old Craig Sibbald found Moroccan Farid El Allagui but the striker shot wide (more on him later).  Mark Roberts summed it up with a audible moan at Robertson: ''Robbo, that's a shambles".

Things were looking ominous for Ayr but they showed great character to draw level on the half-hour mark.  McGowan and Moffat switched flanks and this was to prove the catalysis.  Comfortable with both feet, the former Clyde winger seems to operate best on the right and after giving Dundee left-back Matt Lockwood a torrid time last week it was former Scotland U21 internationalist Thomas Scobbie who was on the receiving end here.  The equaliser came as McGowan played a one-two with Robertson who put in a perfect cross for Gareth Wardlaw to head home.  Many folk would like to see Robertson line up in the middle of defence alongside Campbell but the veteran's quality going forward from right-back should not be underestimated and Wardlaw grabbed a 'traditional' strikers goal, the type of which have been rare at Somerset Park in recent seasons.

Inspired by the goal and McGowan's wing play, Ayr were now competing well and for a time it was one way traffic towards McGovern's goal.  Geggan hit the post with a burst from midfield which is quickly typifying the hard working midfielder and Moffat had a header well saved. So Falkirk's second goal on the stroke of half-time was more than unfortunate. The goal was set in the context of a tussle royale between Martyn Campbell and El Allagui.  One challenge too many saw Campbell go into Stephen Finnie's notebook after 36 minutes and from that point on El Allagui seemed to be intent on getting the big centre-back sent off.  Any contact saw the Moroccan go down so as he raced through on goal - having escaped with just a talking to from Finnie when a yellow card looked certain - Campbell knew he couldn't touch him as he set off in pursuit. Cuthbert could have maybe done better in the one-on-one, but 2-1 it was.

Spurred perhaps by a sense if injustice, the second-half continued in much the same vain and Ayr grabbed an equaliser on the hour mark.  Wardlaw did well to earn a foul 20 yards out as Darren Dods made the challenge and Eddie Malone sent a superb free-kick curling up and over the wall into the bottom right hand corner. The game at this point was an incredible spectacle.  Fast paced with chances at both ends, both keepers - and the woodwork - being kept busy. The game was also gaining a bit of an edge with five Falkirk players going into the book in short succession, including El Allagui (eventually) but shortly after the Moroccan got his way as Martyn Campbell was ordered off following a tussle on half-way in which Campbell seemed to kick out at.  It was disappointing from Campbell and unfortunately entirely foreseeable.

Faced with seeing out the final seventeen minutes down to ten men it was inevitable that United would be under the cosh and Falkirk lay siege to Kevin Cuthbert's goal.  Ayr remained resolute, however, and the final act of the game summed up their deserved fortune.  With the ball in the back of the net and Kallum Higginbotham celebrating with the Falkirk fans, the Ayr supports' attention was drawn to Assistant Referee Rodney Marshall's raised flag.  Joy amongst the home end and by the time it had sunk into the visitors, irony had been added to agony with Higginbotham booked for celebrating a 'goal' that was ruled out (rightly, according to Brain Reid in the Ayrshire Post this week).  The full time whistle went almost straight away marking the end of a thoroughly entertaining game, well worth the admission price.  Its not often you can say that about Scottish football today and maybe, just maybe, Scottish football isn't as bad as people make out...

The Opposition
Like Hamilton on the opening day of the season, Falkirk travelled to Somerset Park with a raft of promising youngsters. Indeed, 11 of their match day 16 were still teenagers - and it showed in their inability to capitalise on their man advantage in the closing period of the game. There was no doubting their endeavour or technical ability but ultimately it was a lack of composure in front of goal (and perhaps luck...) that prevented Steven Pressley's kids earning all three points. At the back, the influence of Darren Dods is obvious - no more so as he was called upon to calm down the No. 2 Elliot Duffy, after Marko had wound the right-back up into a rage over a seemingly innocuous incident.  Falkirk were missing a similar character in midfield and although Geggan and McKernan didn't have many years on their opponents in the middle of the park, they probably edged it. And upfront, Higgenbotham and El Allagui will cause may defences trouble, particular the troublesome Moroccan. El Allagui was a constant menace to Martyn Campbell and came out on top - and there aren't many strikers at this level who can say that.  He seems to posses the attributes of a 'traditional' British centre forward but also a continental nous rare in this league. I'm certain he'll be infuriating Ayr fans again this season and that Falkirk are a side on the up.  Its probably too soon in their development for the Bairns to be challenging for the title this season, but they will certainly have a say.

A long road home

What we have tonight are all the components of a famous Somerset Park cup upset. A struggling SPL side (think Hibs...)? Check.? A confident Ayr side? Check. A bit of weather? Well, it's hosing it down where I am. Add to that a midweek game under the floodlights (let's hope the new ones have the same magic as the old ones) and you could forgive Inverness Caledonian Thistle for not fancying it tonight.
Now, we have been here before with Caley. A Scottish Cup replay in January 2006 shown live on Sky. Gareth Wardlaw had scored an equaliser up in Inverness but the replay did not go to plan.  I watched from a pub in Wigan as Mark McGeown was sent off after 36 minutes and Caley put two goals past Eric Phillips. Who was about 40 years old.
But circumstances are different now. Ayr go into the game buoyed by their performances this season. There is a belief in the squad that we can compete and all that is missing is the wins to prove it. Wardlaw looks to be finding his stride, McGowan has been terrorising left-backs for fun and Geggan and McKernan, despite their lack of obvious presence and years, are a hard working central midfield duo.
For Caley, gone are the experienced stalwarts like Russell Duncan, Grant Munro and Stuart Golabek - the club's heartbeat - that typified Inverness as the tough and inimitable force that stormed the Scottish leagues and gave United fans some days they would love to forget (remember when we were 3-0 up at half-time...) if only they could. After scrambling around the English lower leagues for recruitments in the summer and signing Gregory Tade, Caley haven't got going this season and lie bottom of the SPL with just one point from five games. Even Aberdeen scored against them at the weekend, while with Adam Rooney gone the Highlanders have failed to score in three out of their five games.
With such a poor start to the season, confidence is bound to be low and the cliché of Somerset Park being a difficult place to go will be ingrained to the point where it could become a self fulfilling prophecy. In Foran and Hayes, Caley have two dangerman capable of causing us big problems, but I don't see much else to be concerned about in their team. Ross Tokey comes back from suspension, but 500+ games looks to have caught up with the veteran. Butcher is expected to play backup keeper Jonathan Tuffey and the Northern Irishman has never inspired confidence in me. Remember Mark Roberts opening day goal from the half-way line against Partick three years ago? The last thing Inverness need is a jittery goalie.
The game provides Ayr with a perfect opportunity to play without the pressure of needing to pick up three points in what will inevitably be a relegation fight. There is nothing to lose and Brian Reid could well be tempted to go with youngsters Robertson, Tiffoney, Armstrong and Paterson and those lads haven't let us down yet. Inverness will face a 200 mile trip home tonight whatever the score and the famous chippy at Auchterarder could well be closed. There's every chance it could be another miserable journey back to the Highland capital.
Come back later in the week for a match review and player ratings from tonight and Saturday's 2-2 draw with Falkirk. And C'mon Ayr!

Player Ratings (vs. Dundee)

Man of the Match

9) Gareth Wardlaw 7 out of 10
Could have been one of a number of players but I've gone for Wardlaw. Mostly ploughed a lone furrow up front but worked the Dundee defence all the time he was on and was the focal point for Ayr's attacking endeavour.  Last time in this division too many defences got an easy ride from Ayr United but Wardlaw won't allow that to happen.

1) Kevin Cuthbert 7 
Came close to turning over McCluskey's shot that led to Dundee's equaliser and earned some luck later on in the game as McIntosh's shot cannoned off the crossbar.  Commanded his box well and brought assurance to United's defensive display.

2) Gareth Armstong 5
Tormented at times by Dundee's left winger (albeit Moffat didn't give him too much support in front) but stuck to his task well and grew into the game, getting forward at times in the second-half. Comfortable in possession - still haven't seen the lad misplace a pass - but maybe lacking in pace to deal with real speed merchants.
 
3) Chris Smith 5
Was nervy at times and seems more comfortable at centre-back.  Positioning out at times and could he have been closer to McCluskey for the shot that saw Dundee equalise.
 
4) John Robertson 6
Didn't have have a great deal to do but was his consummate self. Helped Armstrong through the game and played the ball out of defence neatly.
 
5) Martyn Campbell 6
Mostly untroubled in open play, increasingly a threat in the opposition's box is what I said last week and the same applies.
 
6) Andy Geggan 7
Didn't allow the Dundee midfield to setting into the game at all.

7) Alan Trouten 
Groin injury meant his game lasted just 6 minutes.
 
8) Jamie McKernan 6
I'll admit I wasn't convinced in the worth of Reid bringing in another untested SPL youngster but but in a composed and tidy performance.
 
10) Mark Roberts 5
A quiet game for the skipper, playing more of a deeper role behind Wardlaw.  At times clearly lacked the legs to get up to support or get beyond the Dundee defence. Is Moffat the better option alongside Wardlaw?

11)  Michael McGowan 7 

Last week I said "provided some good deliveries into the box. Gareth Wardlaw could well be be man to capitalise" and I was almost right.  Produced an inch perfect cross on to the head of Moffat for the opener and in the second-half went by Dundee left-back Matt Lockwood a number of times.  

Subs:
12) Michael Moffat (on for Trouten, 7 mins) 6
Deployed in a wide midfield role, he worked hard as always and linked well with Wardlaw at times. Goal will do the world for his confidence, although he never seems to let missed chances bother him.
 
15) Ross Robertson (on for Wardlaw, 75 mins) 3
Brought on to play the 'Wardlaw role' up-front and had an opportunity early on but maybe lacked the pace and finesse to capitalise. A good option to have.

United make a point at Dens

Saturday 13th August - Irn-Bru First Division
Dundee 1, Ayr United 1
 
The Scotland on Sunday observed that should Ayr United replicate more results like this 1-1 draw at Dens Park “they should have no problems” consolidating their place in the First Division. More than the result, however, it was the performance that confirmed that, on the evidence of United’s start to the season, we should have nothing to fear.

Gareth Wardlaw, Jamie McKernan and Gareth Armstrong kept their places following Tuesday night’s Ramsdens Cup win over Raith Rovers and Alan Trouten, Micheal McGowan, Andy Geggan and Mark Roberts all returned meaning Micheal Moffat (briefly) had to make do with a place on the bench. There was no return for veteran Alex Burke as Reid gambled with an inexperienced looking central midfield duo of McKernan and Geggan but the 19 year old St. Mirren loanee was a more than capable replacement for Burke - who must now wonder what role he’ll play in future weeks - while Geggan (24) put in another assured performance full of action and energy.

The game started with a booking for John Robertson after just 67 seconds, although I have to admit I was still queuing to get into the ground at this point, £19 not sufficient apparently to allow for two turnstile operators. Or even one competent one. (Maybe if Dundee spent less money on antagonistic stewards but enough on that subject). I wasn’t long in my seat when Alan Trouten limped off with a groin injury to be replaced by Michael Moffat but it didn’t take long for Ayr's cult hero to make his mark. A determined burst forward from Geggan resulted in a corner taken by Micheal McGowan on the right. His initial effort was straight at Jake Hyde, but the Dark Blues failed to clear and the ball found its way back to McGowan who sent in an inch perfect cross on to the head of Moffat who opened his account for the season, leaving the 39 year-old Rab Douglas no chance. It was an ‘un-Moffat’ like goal and the sort you would be raging if your side conceded, as the Moff was totally unmarked, just six-yards out.

The Dundee reaction was as you might expect from a team unbeaten in nineteen months at home. Wingers Nicky Riley and Jamie McCluskey played high up the pitch and caused full backs Chris Smith and Gareth Armstrong real trouble, the latter yellow carded after just 16 minutes but the rest of the Dundee attack provided little and a combination of good defending, poor delivery into the box and weak finishing meant Cuthbert wasn’t being over-exerted in the Ayr goal. Although Dundee were on top at this stage, Ayr were battling well and Wardlaw, leading the line on his own with Roberts supplementing the midfield in the deeper role, had an effort chalked off after 25 minutes for a foul on Dundee centre-back Craig McKeown. The big Dundee No. 5 was having a torrid time at the hands of Wardlaw and would have been relieved to hear the referees' whistle but the decision appeared soft.

Dundee’s equaliser did come on the half-hour mark and it was McCluskey who was instrumental with a super out-side of the right foot strike. Given too much space by the United defence, the former St. Mirren man elected to shoot from 20 yards out on the right. Cuthbert may have got a touch on the ball it arced towards the top left corner only to clatter off the crossbar but he, and Armstrong, were powerless to prevent Jake Hyde bundling the ball home from close range. Dundee – and McCluskey – buoyed by the equaliser went in search of another goal before half-time but, as Ayr became a little careless in possession, Campbell, Robertson and Cuthbert remained resolute at the back and the sides went into the break level. 

The second-half developed into a more open, end-to-end affair as both teams enjoyed periods of pressure, interspersed unfortunately with some baffling decisions from referee Stevie O’Reilly. Wardlaw was winning and holding the ball up well, linking up with Moffat - deployed on the left - and Roberts while McGowan, switched to the right to give Armstong some protection on that side, showed some neat skills to beat the experienced Matt Lockwood at left-back a number of times. A long range effort from McKernan on 66 minutes tested Douglas before Ayr had perhaps their best chance ten minutes later. Ross Robertson, on for Wardlaw, broke down the right hand side and into the box but had his effort scrambled away, the follow up from Moffat was smothered by Douglas.

Ayr finished on the back foot as the 4000+ home crowd looked for a winner but it never became real backs-to-the-wall stuff. The Dees’ best chance came as Kevin Cuthbert tipped a Leighton McIntosh shot on to the crossbar and recovered to beat away the rebound, although Riley was offside. Martyn Campbell did have a header from a corner at the opposite end, and a goal would have rounded off another fine performance for Big Bobo but the ball flew inches over. Campbell, along with Robertson and when called upon Cuthbert marshalled those around them and ultimately Dundee lacked the firepower to break United down for a winner that despite what Barry Smith may have said, would have been undeserved on the balance of play and chances created. Ayr had travelled to perhaps the toughest venue in the division and earned their first point of the season.

Prior to the game Micheal McGowan told the Daily Record: "We'll play without pressure because as far as everybody is concerned we are already relegated – so it is up to us to prove them wrong”. There may be no pressure, but there is still a nervousness about the team. Perhaps they need to stop mentioning the 'R' word altogether and approach games with a bit more more positive mental attitude. But hopefully results like this will instil more confidence and belief in the side, and they'll treat teams with a little less respect. Falkirk, an unknown quantity packed full of youngsters, and a Raith side we know we can beat are next up at Somerset providing the perfect opportunity to build on a solid start to the league campaign and ensure we end August well clear of the foot of the table. As McGowan also said: "On our day we're a match for anyone in this league."

The Opposition
Like Hamilton the previous week, Dundee are expected to be challenging for a return to the SPL and like the Accies seemed to lack fire power up-front.  Steven Milne returned from injury but Campbell and Robertson dealt with him comfortably. There was little support from the centre of midfield and the main threat came out wide, from McCluskey and Riley - although they will certainly come up across tougher full backs that Chris Smith and 17 year old Gareth Armstrong.  At the back, too, McKeown never quite looked comfortable. Dundee's success last season came on the back of a sense of injustice and although its still early days a lack of goalscoring threat will be causing concern for Barry Smith.

Records are there for breaking...

Well. I wasn't expecting that.  Ayr United's 3-0 Ramsdens Cup win against Raith Rovers at Cappielow on Tuesday night leaves Brian Reid's men in confident mood ahead of the trip to Dens Park, and the gaffer with a real selection headache. Dundee haven't lost a home game in the league since January 2010 - a run of 23 games (during which they have entered - and exited - administration) but this could be a great chance for United to end that record and pick up a first league win in the City of Discovery for over 30 years.

Veterans Mark Roberts and Alex Burke along with Alan Trouten and Micheal McGowan and Andy Geggan made way on Tuesday for Academy kids Gareth Armstrong (17), Roddy Paterson (18) - both making their first competitive starts - Ross Robertson and Jonathan Tiffoney (both 20) while 19 year old St. Mirren kid Jamie McKernan also came into the midfield and the kids provided three goals and a Man of the Match award between them.  While it seems unlikely that Brian Reid will stick with an inexperienced midfield of  Robertson, McKernan, Tiffoney and Moffat,  I'd be happy to see Robertson retain his place in the centre of the park alongside Geggan.  What 'Rosco' may lack in finesse he certainly offers in effort and dig that will be needed this season on the road.  At left midfield McGowan is the obvious choice after an impressive display against Hamilton while its a toss up between Tiffoney and Trouten on the right.  The defence picks itself, with Armstrong - who penned a professional deal at Somerset Park this week - surely set to keep the No. 2 shirt despite his age.  Tiffoney is also an option but by all accounts the two linked up well with Tiff ahead of young Armstrong on the right on Tuesday and perhaps that caught the gaffer's eye. Upfront, its any two from Moffat, Marko, Wardlaw and Paterson. Paterson could be a dangerous addition from the bench later on in the game while Marko dropping into deeper role when Ayr don't have the ball could work well. You will notice no place from Alex Burke.

To take anything from Dens we are going to have to address the one big weakness. But for a) some excellent set piece deliveries from Dougie Imrie; b) an experienced 6ft 2in defender in the substantial form of Mark McLaughlin; and c) McLaughlin's equally experienced defensive partner Simon Mensing getting away with a clear foul on Kevin Cuthbert, United could have taken a share - if not all three - points on Saturday but its a type of goal Brian Reid's sides have been conceding for too long.  Ominously for tomorrow Dundee pose their own danger men that could exploit our set-piece Achilles heal.  Matt Lockwood's Wikipedia page describes the 34 year old player-assistant manager as a 'set piece specialist' while in Craig McKeown and former Arsenal and Wales international Rhys Weston they have a couple of centre-backs who could cause our defence problems at free-kicks and corners.

Barry Smith has added some experienced players over the summer after their administration woes left them literally begging, borrowing and stealing players last term but strikers Graham Bayne and Steven Milne are struggling with injury and without Gary Harkins questions surround the Dark Blue's goalscoring credentials. The Dees had to rely on a controversial penalty at Firhill on Saturday, and although they stuck four past a poor Dumbarton side also struggled against Arbroath.  Playing away from home - and with little expectation - could suit an Ayr side who look strongest when counter attacking.

Regardless of some encouraging signs so far its hard to imagine we won't be struggling at the bottom end of the table this season, so its important get some points on the board.  Dundee might prove an unexpected opportunity to start the ball rolling.

Tried to make me go to Greenock, I said Cappielow? No, no

I’ll level with you. I don’t like Raith Rovers. I don’t like Cappielow either, although I’ve only been twice: once down from Aberdeen in 2000 for a game where it rained incessantly on the uncovered Wee Dublin End and I didn’t have a jacket (I think the game ended in a draw) and again for the game that finally put us out our misery the last time we (dis)graced the First Division. Somehow we went into that game with a chance of staying up, or at least grabbing a play-off spot. And when Danny McKay scored, well… it’s the hope that kills you. I’d driven down from Skye for the game. 6am ferry.  Should have known better though. The 4-1 home defeat by Airdrie on a dismal Wednesday night a couple of weeks previous was all the evidence needed that Ayr’s First Division ba’ was burst, nevermind the 7-0 humiliation dished out be Inverness three days later. It was a truly horrific end of season run.

Diversions aside, fate would have it I can’t make it to Cappielow tonight anyway. Oh, well, I’ve still got another two opportunities to avoid Inverclyde and four chances to get annoyed by Raith Rovers’ effective kick-and-rush pragmatism this season…

On to the game and just one injury – to Eddie Malone (thankfully not a season-ending leg-break as first feared) – brings into focus our paper thin squad.  Chris Smith seems the only option to replace Malone at left-back, although McGowan could play there at a push, and the imperious John Robertson the obvious candidate to fill in at centre-back, with Jonathan Tiffoney, curiously low profile during the start of the season, or 17 year old Gareth Armstrong coming in at right-back.

Tiffoney, Gareth Wardlaw, Gareth Armstrong and Roddy Patterson are all in contention to start but no mention of Ross Robertson, a player many would like to see in the middle of the park to give us the physical presence that the impressive Andy Geggan and entirely ineffective Alex Burke don’t provide.  Another player who won’t provide that missing ‘dig’ is on-loan St. Mirren kid Jamie McKernan.  On as a replacement for Burke against Hamilton, I don’t doubt the lad’s ability – I’m sure he’s a tidy wee player – but I fail to see what he adds to the squad.  More concerning, is Reid’s preference for these unproven SPL kids over our own Academy prospects, notably Ross Robertson and increasingly Tiffoney. Tiff was a last resort at right-back at the start of last season but proved his worth with some great performances.  Yes, a bit naïve at times and with some defensive frailties but it seems that Reid no long fancies Tiffoney at right-back (hence he inflicted us with Jim Lauchlan towards the end of last season), or even at all? Curious. One silver lining could be that we were in the same boat last season and it wasn’t until September that Brian Reid captured Eddie Malone and Ryan McCann, two of our more consistent players last season.

As for Raith Rovers, who won their first Challenge Cup game in six years when they knocked out local rivals Cowdenbeath in the first round, they will be without skipper Iain Davidson for the game, who suffered medial knee ligament damage that will keep him out for up to eight weeks.  Incredibly Davidson had been linked with a move to Hibs earlier in the week, proof possibly that while Colin Calderwood might still be Easter Road in body, he isn’t there in mind or spirit.

Manager John McGlynn - PFA Scotland Manager of the Year last season – has described tonight’s tie as “winnable”, and the bookies certainly agree.  Rovers had quite a remarkable season last year and in John Baird have a striker who suits Rovers’ style of play (and hopefully dives less than his predecessor in that role for Rovers, Graeme Weir).  McGlynn has also added Livingston midfield Joe Hamill and he certainly stood out last season as a useful operator in the middle of the park, while they are unlikely to miss the enigmatic Gregory Tadé too much – ex-Morton man Brian Graham now providing the foil for Baird.

For United, our best hope could well be Gareth Wardlaw. Which for some may be a worry. Missed a golden opportunity against Accies but will hopefully be fired up to impress against his former side. His inclusion may see United going more direct but he has that nuisance factor that could cause Raith’s experience centre-back partnership of Ellis and Murray trouble and create opportunities for Moffat or Paterson, who appears to be well capable of finishing even the slightest of half-chance.

Steve Conroy is the referee tonight so if you are going to the game you can at least personalise your ire towards the man in black.  Conroy was the whistler on the receiving end of Alex Williams’ affections following THAT equalising goal against THEM and the ‘taps aff’ celebration. Great scenes!  I’m off to find the goal on YouTube to take my mind off tonight and the sorry reason why this game is going ahead at Cappielow…

Player Ratings (vs. Hamilton)

vs. Hamilton Accies

Man of the Match

11)  Michael McGowan 8 out of 10

Not just for his goal, McGowan was a danger on the left hand side all game and provided some good deliveries into the box. Gareth Wardlaw could well be be man to capitalise...

1) Kevin Cuthbert 6 
Will cop the blame from some for the goals but in truth there was little he could do with either under extreme Hamilton pressure.  Otherwise dealt with what little he had to do comfortably.

2) John Robertson 6
Culpable perhaps for the two goals but provides some much needed experience on the right, including going forward.


3) Eddie Malone 7
Effort typified by the offside goal which saw him stretchered off.


4) Chris Smith 6
Relatively error-free performance


5) Martyn Campbell 6
Mostly untroubled in open play, increasingly a threat in the opposition's box.


6) Andy Geggan 7
Great effort in the middle of the park. Needs more help than he's getting.

7) Alan Trouten 5
Poor game following two assists and a goal versus East Stirling. Failed to get involved and looked lost out on the right. Should have done better with chance at the end.


8) Alex Burke 4
If there was a physical presence or an obvious tactical influence, then maybe. But I fail to see what Burke is offering us. Not even 60 minutes at the moment. Less wasteful in possession than against East Stirling but continues to disappoint.


9) Michael Moffat 6
You suspect the Moff needs a goal as he adjusts to First Division football, having albums named after him and mixing with naked painted ladies. Worked hard as always but won't be able to beat defences on his own.


10) Mark Roberts 6
Some neat touches as we've come to expect but do we need more from the skipper?


Subs:
12) Gareth Wardlaw (on for Roberts, 64 mins) 3
Perhaps a little too much remonstrating and not enough hitting the target. Gave us a useful option up-front.


14) Jamie McKernon (on for Burke, 52 mins) 4 
Tidy enough but he just a lad.  Ross Robertson would surely be a better option?


15) Gareth Armstrong (on for Malone, 67 mins) 3
Got his chance on merit according to Reid. Might look unconvincing but never wasted a pass.

New season... same old frailties

Saturday 6th August - Irn-Bru First Division
Ayr United 1, Hamilton Accies 2


During the summer I almost, almost, took the time to look through AUTV to note down the number of goals we conceded from corners and set pieces last season. Balls into the box that our defence didn't deal with. I didn't but it wasn't a surprise that our Achilles heal should cost us again as First Division football returned to Somerset Park.

It was a game dominated by corners, with sixteen in total, as both sides enjoyed sustained periods of pressure in the other's 18 yard box.  Hamilton's Dougie Imrie and United's Michael McGowan provided some quality deliveries but ultimately Hamilton - and 35 year-old 6ft 2in Accies centre-back Mark McLoughlin - were able to capitalise.

Ayr had started well, with Michael McGowan scoring after 8 minutes following a great move involving Roberts and Moffat. But that was undone 20 minutes later when Robertson, otherwise his classy self in the right-back slot, was out jumped by McLaughlin, Cuthbert nowhere having pulled off a full stretch to turn a Hopkirk shot out for the corner.  As the half progressed, United were sitting far too deep and allowing Accies to dictate without causing Cuthbert too much concern.  Roberts was the front man, with Moffat in a withdrawn role behind meaning Ayr lacked that out ball that could have relieved some pressure.

Into the second-half and it took just 10 minutes for Hamilton to grab what would prove to be the winner. Again McLaughlin got the better of Robertson following what appeared to be a wrestling match in the six yard box. It seemed incomprehensible that a foul hadn't been committed, either on Cuthbert - with the experienced Simon Mensing causing a nuisance on the goal line - or Robertson but referee George Salmond was uninterested.  Ayr really lack a physical presence across the whole team to deal with such dangerous set-pieces. Smith, Malone and Geggan may be brave but ultimately we weren't big enough or strong enough to hold out against such a bombardment.

Ayr did have chances to grab an equaliser that on the balance of play would have been deserved. Billy Reid withdrew the influential Crawford and brought on the defensive minded Canning and seemed to settle for what he had, despite United appearing to tire.  Brian Reid's men continued to press and Wardlaw, on as a sub should have done better with a ball knocked down to him seven or eight yards out by Campbell; Cerny made a great save from Robertson and perhaps the best chance fell to Trouten.  Running on to a great through ball from Geggan, the winger, with space still ahead of him to run into, tamely shot at Cerny.

In the end, it was disappointment at the manner of defeat but some positive signs in the way we competed with a Hamilton side that will be up their challenging at the end of season.  The defence, with two competitive clean sheets already under their belts, dealt with Hamilton in open play and the interplay between Moffat, Roberts and the midfield at times showed up well and earned us a great goal.

However a postscript to the game is the injury to Eddie Malone - thankfully not as serious as first feared - which really brings into focus how threadbare Brian Reid's squad is.  Further loan deals could be in the offing but it isn't lightweight  novices from the SPL U19s we need, notwithstanding Brian Reid's commendable commitment to playing football 'the right way'.

The Opposition: 
For all Billy Reid's guarantee that Hamilton will play some sublime football this season - with an emphasis on youth - it was two set pieces and an experienced, no-nonsense defence that won them the game. In terms of their playing-style, I was expecting more. Despite being tidy on the ball, young Ali Crawford in particular catching the eye, they certainly didn't outclass United and were not shy to launch it out of defence when required.  Its obvious that Accies are missing a striker or two to put away the chances Imrie and co. will create but, with Mensing and McLaughlin in defence - not to mention Cerny between the posts - they will be serious title contenders. Cerny was a £180,000 signing when he joined Accies in 2009 and that tells its own story in the difference between the two sides.


Match Links:
Matchday Live
Davie Sargent's Photos
Honestpage
Pie & Bovril 

[Archive] Will the Lions learn?

Here's a blog post I wrote back in May about the team Ayr fans loves to hate, Livingston. Not the normal sort of thing that will appear on @albinoanaconda, but a roundabout way of summarising last season's Second Division campaign. And subtly getting the boot stuck into Livi.  The lads at the Terrace Football Podcast were good enough to publish - their weekly programme is well worth a listen.

It was an underwhelming title win.  Less than 400 fans travelled the forty-or-so minutes to see it confirmed at Stenhousemuir, around a thousand more saw the trophy lifted at Almondvale.  Underwhelming not because Livingston weren’t the best side in the Second Division this season, but because of its sheer inevitability.  Favourites from the start, closest challengers Ayr United had the opportunity at the start of February to make it interesting and close to gap to one point with a game in hand – but a 3-0 win for the Lions at Somerset Park, on the back of a 2-0 victory versus Brechin City the previous week, started the procession as full-time Livi continued a run of 14 games between mid-January and the end of March where they dropped just two points.

While Livingston powered to the title, the cup exploits and weather-enforced schedule imposed on Ayr and Brechin took its toll.  The Honest Men lost six of their seven fixtures re-arranged for midweek, the win ironically coming against a Brechin side who almost contrived to throw away even a play-off spot as memories of their thrilling quarter-final tie at Glebe Park versus St. Johnstone faded fast.

Livingston’s response to their title?  Their consecutive promotions were the ‘fault’ of the short-sighted SFL Chairmen that condemned them to the bottom tier of Scottish football in 2009, and that clubs like Ayr had now ‘paid’ for their decision.  But who was paying  for Livingston’s rapid rise through the lower reaches of Scottish football?   At the time when Stirling Albion have announced Jocky Scott’s budget in the Second Division will be £120,000, Livingston Chief Executive Ged Nixon admitted Livi’s season in the Third Division cost them £1.2 million. 

Only now as preparations begin for life in the First Division do Livingston, according to Nixon, have the opportunity to start making steps toward living within their financial means, a clear admission that maintaining a full time squad in the Third and Second Division was never sustainable.  Livingston have in effect responded to their punishment for going into administration – for a second time – by continuing the practices that got them into trouble in the first (and second) place.  

Livingston’s justification for this approach again points the finger at the SFL.  Their side of the story is that in August 2009 the League asked the new Board at Almondvale to honour all the playing contracts at the club – or they would have to resign their position in the league.  Livingston agreed on the understanding they would be kicking-off in the First Division that weekend. Then they were demoted to the Third Division. 

So while administration and relegation, on the face of it, provided Livingston with the perfect opportunity to begin the process of balancing the books, they in fact couldn’t.  They had commitments.  The SFL, the clubs they would steamroller on during their two year ‘delay’ in the Third and Second Divisions, had forced them into it.  What this doesn’t explain is the post-administration and demotion recruitment of Tony Bullock, David Cowan, Robbie Winters, Kenny Deuchar and Iain Russell.  All players who would walk into any lower-league side able to offer full time football and a decent wage. 

While the terms of the investment made by their new Board of Directors to get Livingston (back) to where they are is unclear,  the gamble – be it necessitated by the SFL or otherwise – has paid off.  Livingston, according to Nixon, will be one of the most financially stable clubs in the First Division and alongside Queen of the South, Dundee and Falkirk he may well be right.  But there will remain a doubt – especially amongst those supporters of teams whose clubs, rather than Livingston, have paid for their previous misdemeanours – whether Livingston can compete in the First Division while balancing the books, something which may be a rarity in Scottish football but Livingston have specialised in taking to the extreme. The evidence of their promotion back to the First Division, and the signings that have helped them get there, would suggest not.     

@albinoanaconda makes debut

Blogging is for knobs, isn't it? Really. I mean, who give a f**k what I think about anything? Its all a bit self-indulgent and presumptuous. But, having set up www.twitter.com/albinoanaconda in March 2009 to bring updates from Ayr United games to my pals in the Aberdeen Branch AUSC its at 340 followers now, bringing the latest United-related news, rumors and banter to twitter. So maybe, just maybe, some of those folks would be interesting in reading some more (extended in character count if nothing else...) ramblings about the latest going ons at Somerset Park? Hopefully. I can't promise anything other than it will be more insightful than the usual North Terrance chat: "he'll no do"; "change it, Reid" and "mon tae f**k, Ayr. This is pish..."