Forget survival, head for the top

New gaffer is pleased with his squad’s fitness

New Gartcairn boss Jamie McKenzie says he wants to push the club to be a force at the top of the league, rather than set sights simply on survival.

The Airdrie junior side were last season promoted to the West Region’s League One after a stellar season under now former boss Davie Greig.

Gartcairn unfortunately missed out on the league title by a single point and new boss, former Albion Rovers midfielder McKenzie, welcomed the players back for pre-season on Saturday.

He admits he was impressed by the fitness levels of his new squad and is looking forward to a new challenge after leaving fellow junior side Forth Wanderers,

He told the Advertiser: “I’ve only had a few meetings with the players but they showed last year they’re a good and capable group.

“You don’t get promoted by accident so I know that I’ve got a good squad to work with.

“They’ll be driven by missing out on the title on the last day – that’ll still be hurting them.

“I’m sure that will drive them on to achieve more success this year.

“Last year was successful but I want them to add to that and push to the top of the table rather than just try and survive.

“I believe we have a real chance and things are looking good.”

A huge part of McKenzie’s remit as coach is to aid the development of the youngsters progressing through Gartcairn’s youth academy.

Last season saw Jamie Leslie and Aidan Meechan make their presence felt in the first team after performing well for the under- 19s and McKenzie wants to see that continue.

McKenzie said: “I’m a winner and that’s the most important thing in football.

“But coming to a club with an academy means it’s important to help young players progress and give them a chance to try and make a career for themselves.

“Ultimately, the committee want success but that can come in a number of ways and the development aspect is massive here.

“The academy is an added advantage for the first team and if we can get players coming through that pathway then it would be great.

“I like to be hands on as a coach and will help them in any way I can.”

Airdrie gaffer Stephen Findlay is pleased with his side’s pre-season preparations after last week’s three friendly matches. The Diamonds drew 1-1 with Stirling Albion and Forres Mechanics before hammering Highland League side Clachnacuddin 6-0 (match...

No stranger to Monklands Jamie during his playing days at Rovers