Conference round-up
Ardrossan Winton Rovers
Manager: Stevie Wilson.
AWR find themselves as the only Ayrshire-based team in Conference C as they return from a year on the sidelines. Most of the squad from last campaign retained while midfielder Sean Mears is back for a second spell.
Craigmark Burntonians
Manager: Ryan Caddis.
Rookie boss Caddis wants to make a big impact in Dalmellington after taking over from Graeme Neil with‘Mark fighting it out in Conference A.
Dalry Thistle
Manager: Chris Wilson
Gavin Friels’departure in the early part of pre-season stunned the Merksworth Park side who will attack Conference B with new boss Wilson and a youthful looking group.
Irvine Vics
Manager: Dougie MacDuff
Like Dalry, Irvine were dealt a blow when manager Brian McLuckie resigned with his replacement, Alan Kelly, quitting after just three days on health grounds. Boss MacDuff is back in the game after a long absence but has foundations in place with the Walsh brothers, Declan and Ciaran, the pick of the bunch ahead of life in Conference A.
Kello Rovers
Manager: Scott Clelland
The Dumfriesshire side has been adopted by Ayrshire given their long history of playing in these parts. A famous Junior Cup win over Irvine Meadow attracted the headlines in January 2020. Attracting players to Kirkconnel is a tough gig but hard-working squad in place for Conference B test.
Lugar Boswell Thistle
Manager: Greg Gallagher
The Rosebank Park outfit want to enjoy better days with gaffer Gallagher in it for the long haul. Ex-Celtic kid Craig Connell headlines a young squad which also features former Queen’s Park defender Adam Lowe and Dean Marshall, once of Ayr United. Conference A for Lugar.
Maybole
Manager: Carlo Walker
Proud club is celebrating its 75th year and boss Walker will want to make it one to remember in Conference A. Ex-Celtic kid Daniel McAllister is a new recruit and look out for talented Jai Holland.
Muirkirk
Manager: Kevin Muirhead Something is brewing at Burnside Park and boss Muirhead will be hoping this is the season it all comes together. Capable squad which is ambitious in Conference A.
Saltcoats Vics
Manager: Iain McMillan Conference A for Saltcoats who go into the season buoyed by winning the Sheena Thomson Memorial Trophy.