Fairmuir boss praises lads for double glory

THE 2017/18 season was one to remember for Fairmuir U/16 as they completed an undefeated league and cup double.

After watching rivals Dryburgh complete a clean sweep in the 2016/17 campaign, manager Graham Buchan was delighted to see his squad growing on the park.

He said: “It took a while for the lads to get used to but, after a tough pre-season of fixtures and after four or five league games, the boys really started to kick on.

“There were no l onger any individuals on the pitch. The team played as one and fought for each other.”

After a gruelling backlog of fixtures, Fairmuir’s league campaign came down to a winnertakes-all match against Dryburgh.

Jake Grady proved to be Fairmuir’s hero with a hat-trick that saw them come from 3-1 down to win 4-3 and clinch the league title.

Captain Mark McCrory admits the Dryburgh match was his highlight of the season.

He said: “The feeling of beating Dryburgh in the last game of the season, coming back from 3-1 down with 20 minutes to go, was just unreal.

“You couldn’t ever imagine it in those circumstances but the Fairmuir boys showed fight and pride for the badge and gave it their all to come out on top.”

The Queen’s Jubilee Cup was quickly added to the trophy cabinet as Fairmuir dismantled Ferry at North End Park in what was their 14th match in just over six weeks.

Buchan was full of praise for his players, who navigated such a hectic schedule.

“The boys were simply outstanding i n the final few months. We were low on numbers due to injuries etc. as we went into most games with a maximum of one sub. This was a massive challenge.”

For both manager and captain, 2017/18 is their second invincible season and both believe that last season’s achievements top those of the 2013/14 campaign.

McCrory said: “Obviously, being part of that invincible 2013/14 season was unforgettable. However, it doesn’t come close to comparing with last seasons’ efforts and outcome.”

Buchan added: “Every player was outstanding and it’s been a privilege to share the success with them.

“We go again next time!”

Jordan Timmons is presented with the Man-of-the-Match award by DDYFA officials Jim Falconer and Sandy Edmonds after Fairmuir U/16’s Queen’s Jubilee Cup win.

Fairmuir U/16 (tangerine) beat Ferry 5-1 in the Queen’s Jubilee Cup Final at North End Park (above, right).

Age 12 DUSC (tangerine) recently played St James at Craigie 3G.

Age 11 DUSC (tangerine) and Brechin faced off at Craigie 3G recently.