Enjoyment the aim of the game for Thistle

GETTING kids out and about playing football is the aim of the game for Dundee Thistle as they look to bolster their numbers across the age groups.

A drop-off in players is something most boys clubs suffer at one stage or another and for Thistle it’s no different.

For the Age 11 group, who battled well with Douglas at Dawson Park in two tight contests, it’s a case of enjoyment and improvement over results.

Coach Alan Simpson said: “It’s all about getting the boys out enjoying playing the game at this age — it’s not about competition and keeping scores because we know it can be difficult to keep the guys involved.

“We’ve had a few players who just stopped playing and it can be hard to find more to come in.

“Our Age 11 group isn’t too bad — we have 16 players, which when we move up to 11-a-side next year will be a good number.

“Against Douglas, though, we only had 11 and so had to play the same boys in both games rather than have two separate teams.”

Despite a busy day for the squad and coaches, Thistle played some good stuff against Douglas and gave plenty of entertainment for those watching.

Alan added: “Both the matches were decided by one goal so they were pretty even games.

“Sometimes in boys football scores can be one-sided but both teams played good football and in a good sporting manner.

“There were a few goals and it was an enjoyable day all round.

“Both teams were competitive but there were no bad tackles.”

Now the boys games take a break from games with Dundee fortnight but Thistle are hoping to keep up their good summer after the restart.

Alan added: “We’ve enjoyed the summer.

“It can be difficult at times, though.

“You have senior clubs Dundee and Dundee United around signing players and the lads want to go, as they would, and you have to try to replace them.

“You have to deal with that, though, but it’s fun and good to get the boys enjoying themselves.

“We train twice a week, we want to push the lads on and there’s a good atmosphere at the club.”

Dundee Thistle are looking for more players of all age groups, boys and girls. For more information go to dundeethistlefc.co.uk

Dundee Thistle’s goalkeeper closes down a Douglas striker in their well-contested Age 11 clash at Claypotts.

A Ferry feint as opponents Fairmuir (blue) cover the goal in this Age 10 match-up.

A measured pass for Dundee Thistle (blue) in their Age 11 match with Douglas.

Occidental (yellow) were in charge against Boars Rock, winning 6-1.

Ferry Age 10s (yellow) took on Fairmuir at Dawson Park.

Lochee (green) kept up their 100% record with a thumping 12-1 victory over Stobswell.