Depleted Pansies couldn’t beat drop

UNFORTUNATELY there was little cheer at Glenesk, with Violet relegated after a disappointing season.

The only saving grace for the Pansies was they didn’t finish bottom of the league — Armadale propping up the table.

However, that will be of little consolation to everyone at the club as they prepare for life back in the North League.

To be fair, manager Ralph Henderson faced an uphill battle for much of the season with a horrendous injury list, particularly long-term injuries to the likes of Barry Wilson and Aaron Kane.

There were some memorable moments, however, particularly in the GA Cup when they lost narrowly to eventual winners Broughty Athletic at the semi-final stage.

They also ran Glenafton, this season’s Scottish Cup winners close, and made the Ayrshire side work hard for their 2-0 win in the national trophy.

The Pansies had beaten Blairgowrie 4-1 in the previous round but the Berrypickers later gained revenge with a 5-1 win in the East of Scotland Cup.

St Andrews were also relegated but were then granted an 11th-hour reprieve due to Kelty’s move to the East of Scotland League.

The i mbalance i n the top flight will see Newtongrange retain their status, with Saints the main beneficiaries in the Premier League.

The Fife outfit will hope to make the most of that good fortune by avoiding a similar scenario next term.