Fraserburgh

V Cove Rangers

Harlaw Park, Inverurie Saturday 7th May 2016

Kick-off 3.00 pm Official Programme £2.00

Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Final

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Cove Rangers FC Main Sponsor Advert 2

Contents 3

Aberdeenshire & District FA Presidents Message 4

Sponsors Message/A Word from the Chairmen 5

A Word from the Chairmen 6

Fraserburgh FC: Managers Notes 7

Cove Rangers FC: Managers Notes 8

Fraserburgh FC: Captains Corner 9

Cove Rangers FC: Captains Corner 10

Aberdeenshire Shield Snippets – Easton Thain 11

Fraserburgh FC Player Profiles 12 & 13

Today’s Squads 14 & 15

Cove Rangers FC Player Profiles 16 & 17

Cove Rangers FC: Road to the Final 18

Match Officials 19

Fraserburgh FC: Road to the Final 20

Cove Rangers FC History 21

Aberdeenshire Shield History 22 to 24

Ross McTavish (HFL Hub and OET) 25

Broch’s six of the best 26

Fraserburgh FC Main Sponsor Advert 27

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Above: Action from this season’s Fraserburgh v Cove Rangers clashes at Bellslea Park. Centre: The Aberdeenshire Shield.

Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Final

Fraserburgh FC v Cove Rangers FC

Saturday 7th May 2015 Harlaw Park, Inverurie

Programme Contributions

Editors

Duncan Little (Cove Rangers FC) & Mark Simpson (Fraserburgh FC)

Both Cove Rangers FC and Fraserburgh FC would like to express our thanks to

the Aberdeenshire & District FA for their permission to compile a Cup Final

programme.

Our Thanks to Formartine United FC for provision of printing facilities

Contributions from

Duncan Little Mark Simpson Easton Thain Ross McTavish

Front Cover: Action from this season’s

Aberdeenshire Cup match between

Fraserburgh and Cove Rangers at

Bellslea Park.

On behalf of Aberdeenshire and District Football Association I would like to welcome you to Harlaw Park, Inverurie, for this afternoon’s eagerly awaited Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Final between Fraserburgh FC and Cove Rangers FC. With the competition now into its 26th year it is fitting that two clubs who have already

tasted success this season have reached the Final after some very hard fought victories on the way. I am sure both teams will be all out to add more silverware to their trophy cabinets and be this season’s proud holders of the Aberdeenshire Shield. I would like to thank Morrison Motors (Turriff) for their continued sponsorship and support. I am sure both sets of fans and the neutral support from Inverurie will witness another cracking final in keeping with the trend set over the past few seasons. I would also like to thank Inverurie Loco Works Football Club for hosting the final, and the Association secretary Brian Christie who works hard behind the scenes to make sure everything goes to plan. Finally I would like to wish both teams the best of luck for today’s Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Final, may the best team win and proudly display this magnificent trophy in their board room.

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Mike Macaulay, President ADFA

May the Best Team Win

Action from the 3-3 draw between Cove Rangers and Fraserburgh at North Lodge Park, Pitmedden earlier this season.

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Once again I find myself in the proud position of doing a welcome piece for a Cup Final. I can assure you that I could never get bored of doing this. So without further ado, on behalf of everyone at Fraserburgh FC I welcome you to Harlaw Park today. I am already on record as saying how great a competition this is and don’t make any apologies for doing so again. I am so glad that we are able to get the final played before the end of the season and if I am honest we should never have got

“Fitting Finale to another great Highland League season” “It gives us great pleasure to welcome you all to today’s Morrison Motors Turriff Aberdeenshire Shield final here at Harlaw Park, Inverurie.” “We are proud of our long association with this trophy and watch many fine tussles over the winter months to produce the 2 teams we will see today.”

Eddie Morrison, Morrison Motors

(Turriff)

Finlay Noble, Chairman

Fraserburgh FC

Today’s match will be a fitting finale to another great Highland League Season which has kept us all enthralled with a great race for the Highland League Championship eventually won by one of our teams today, Cove Rangers, who we congratulate on their achievement. Once again Fraserburgh are contesting the final and Mark Cowie is certainly growing into being a fine young manager with an exciting squad of local players ensuring a large travelling support for his team. We are sure both teams will want to end the season on a high and we will be treated to a great game today. Our thanks go to Aberdeenhire and District Football Association for their stewardship of the tournament and to Inverurie Loco Works FC for hosting today’s match and also to you, the fans, for coming to support your team.

All that remains is for us to wish both clubs well in what will be a keenly contested match.

Eddie and Brian Morrison

ourselves into the position where that was in

danger. We need to make sure that we plan next

season’s competition better and get it back to what

it was before. A short sharp tournament.

We are indebted to Morrison Motors for their

continued support of this competition and you know

the sign of a good sponsorship when the people

refer to the competition with the sponsor’s name.

That is where we are at with the Morrison Motors

Aberdeenshire Shield. That is another reason why

the clubs need to make sure we plan next year’s

competition properly.

This is our sixth Aberdeenshire FA Final (3 Cup & 3

Shield) in four years which is a great achievement

for us but today is by far the hardest game of the

lot. Much has been made of the fact we have

played Cove Rangers three times this season and

not lost yet but to me that doesn’t work in our

favour. John will have his players well motivated

for today so it will be extremely hard for us to get

our hands on the famous old trophy first played for

116 years ago.

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performance in this competition look a bit healthier. However, I am sure that John will remind the players that Fraserburgh will also be looking to end the season on a high. Looking forward, our plans for our new stadium at Calder Park continue to progress well and we expect some very positive news on this front in the next week or so. With regards to next season, we have all the necessary approvals for ground sharing already in place so we can look forward to next season determined to continue to build on this season’s success. On behalf of Cove Rangers Football Club, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Morrison Motors for their continued sponsorship of this tournament and the Office Bearers of the Aberdeenshire and District FA for their usual efficient administration of the event. I would also like to thank our friends at Inverurie Loco Works FC for permitting the use of Harlaw Park to hosts today’s final. Finally, to the supporters of both sides, enjoy your afternoon Keith Moorhouse, Chairman, Cove Rangers FC

The Association doesn’t run itself and this welcome

note allows me to once again publically thank our

secretary Brian Christie for all the hard work he

puts in for our clubs. Likewise, to our President

Mike Macaulay who has presided over us for another

year with great professionalism in some trying

times. It’s very easy to look from the outside in but

not realise the effort that goes in to making the

Association the success that it is.

Finally, on a more personal note, I would like to

thank our players and management for their efforts

in getting us to our second cup final of the season

and to our supporters who have backed us home

and away for the past nine months. I hope we can

end the season on a high but whatever the outcome

today I hope we can all enjoy the occasion. Come awa the Broch. Finlay Noble, Chairman, Fraserburgh FC

Everyone at Cove Rangers Football Club are delighted to be involved in this seasons Morrison Motors ADFA Shield Final and we look forward to meeting Fraserburgh FC in what should be a very entertaining game. Following on from the highs of winning the league title to the lows of missing out in the pyramid play offs, this final game of the season gives us an opportunity to end the season on a high. This is a great competition and is hugely competitive and we are proud to have made it to the final, particularly, having played all our games away from home and coming through some tough ties at Huntly, Keith and Formartine United on route to the final. After all the hype around the play offs, I am in no doubt that John and his Management Team will have the team focused once again on today’s game. Our last success in this tournament was in season 2008/9, so a win today would make our

Keith Moorhouse, Chairman

Cove Rangers FC

Aberdeenshire Shield winners: 1990/91 Cove Rangers 1991/92 Fraserburgh 1992/93 Buckie Thistle 1993/94 Fraserburgh 1994/95 Deveronvale 1995/96 Fraserburgh 1996/97 Fraserburgh 1997/98 Keith 1998/99 Peterhead 1999/00 Fraserburgh 2000/01 Cove Rangers 2001/02 Keith 2002/03 Deveronvale 2003/04 Inverurie Locos 2004/05 Keith 2005/06 Keith 2006/07 Keith 2007/08 Buckie Thistle 2008/09 Cove Rangers 2009/10 Peterhead 2010/11 Turriff United 2011/12 Fraserburgh 2012/13 Turriff United 2013/14 Inverurie Locos 2014/15 Turriff United

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them being suspended it will just give someone else a chance to play. It will start off as 11 v 11 so I am not going to go down the route of making excuses. The suspensions might help us as those who come in will hopefully be hungry to show what they are about and put in a good performance. We will still have a good line up with players who if they perform like they can, will be able to give Cove some problems. I have faith in my players even when sometimes they don't believe in themselves. I am confident that whoever plays the game will give it their all and hopefully at the end of the day it's enough to win ourselves another shield, but we know that we will have to be at our very best to win, possibly even having Lady Luck on our side too. This is your third Final as a manager during your short tenure in charge. What have you learnt from the previous Finals that will stand you and the team in good stead today?

I haven't really learnt anything new which I didn't already know. I already knew that I don't like to lose. Watching Turriff lift the shield last season just reinforced that dissatisfaction of getting beat even more. It is not a great sight watching other teams lift a trophy which you have been competing for. Earlier this season we had the chance to win again and thankfully we did. We prepare for each game the exact same no matter how important it is. I like routines and once I have something I like I make sure that we do it all the time so we won't go in to this game any different to all the other games we have played this season. A lot of people in this circle label Fraserburgh as a cup team but I do not see anything wrong with that. There are a lot of teams in this league who would have loved to have been as successful as we have over the last few years. We have one medal already this season and are away to challenge for another so despite our league finish we could still have a good season. We owe the fans a performance here and I'm sure that win or lose the guys will wear their heart on their sleeve as all Broch teams do. Thanks again, Mark

This is the fourth meeting between the two sides this season and so far Fraserburgh are undefeated against Cove Rangers. Will the previous matches have a bearing on today's game?

No the previous results won't have any bearing on the game. Finals are one off matches where the team who wants it more, more often than not are successful. Past form, history and all that go out the window and it's just a case of which team turns up on the day. We have done well against Cove this season but that to me is a negative thing. If we can remain undefeated against the best team in the league over 3 games then why are we ending up in ninth position? It just shows that over the course of a season we have been a bit short. If anything our results against Cove might spur them on a bit as they will be out for revenge. We are up against it with a few things not going our way but sometimes in football strange things can happen and upsets can occur. You go into the match today without three key players due to suspension, Ryan Christie, Bryan Hay and Dean Cowie as well as missing John Chalmers who is in Australia. How much of a miss will they be? Suspensions are part and parcel of the game so we will just have to deal with them. Yes these guys you mention have been a big part of our season but with

Mark Cowie, Fraserburgh FC,

Manager

Previous meetings - This will be the 9th meeting between Fraserburgh & Cove Rangers since the Aberdeenshire Shield was reintroduced in 1990-1. Cove won that final 1-0 against today’s opponents and also defeated the Broch 2-1 two seasons later. In 1995/6 the Broch won 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the semi final before Cove regained the initiative by winning the 2000/1 semi final 2-1 after extra time. The following season the Broch won a 1st round tie 1-0 and the clubs then met three seasons in a row from 2004/5 to 2006/7 with Cove Rangers winning the first 3-0 before the Broch claimed two 3-1 victories to level the series at 4 wins each, so whoever wins today’s final will edge ahead on that count.

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Playing a cup final at the end of the season gives everyone the chance to finish on a high. This is particularly important for us this year after the disappointment of the last two games where we missed an opportunity. However we have had a fantastic season so far and the players and our fantastic fans have been brilliant throughout all of the ups and downs. Today we face the only team we haven't beaten this year so there is a huge incentive to win this game but more importantly the Aberdeenshire Shield. Our guys will give it everything they have to win again please get behind them again. Thanks John.

Action from Fraserburgh and Cove Rangers in the Aberdeenshire Cup match at Bellslea Park earlier this season.

John Sheran,

Cove Rangers FC, Manager

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“Hopefully the Broch’s spirit, desire and determination will see us through.”

already in the bag) and proves how well he has taken to the job especially at such a young age. Here's hoping we can do the double! Although Cove haven’t beaten us this season they were well worthy league champions so we congratulate them on doing so. I don't know what to expect from Cove today, maybe still deflated from they're play off defeat or out for revenge. Either way we will go into game as underdogs but well up for a fight as we always are and hopefully the Broch’s spirit, desire and determination will see us through. Hopefully our fans are in good voice and both teams put on a good show.

Enjoy, Russ

Oh well, here we go again Broch in another cup final! On route to today's final we overcame Buckie and Locos respectively both through penalty shootouts. This is Mark and his staffs first full season and to get us into two cup finals is some achievement (one

Russell McBride,

Fraserburgh FC, Captain

Action from the clash between Cove Rangers and Fraserburgh at North Lodge Park earlier this season

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We are playing Fraserburgh who all season have proved that they are more than a match for us with them winning 2 and us drawing the other but the boys are determined to rectify this in this now our last game of the season and possibly the last game for a few of the boys as well.

A win would be the cherry on the top for a terrific season with the club having to play all our games away from home and would be another reward for the fans who have travelled a lot of miles to follow us this year and I know that all the players are very grateful for the support we have received all season.

Mon the Cove

Eric Watson Eric Watson,

Cove Rangers FC, Captain

More action from the clash between Fraserburgh and Cove Rangers at Bellslea Park earlier this season

Cove's Mascot today is Cameron Dowell who is four and a half years old. His other favourite teams apart from Cove are Aberdeen and Partick Thistle. He attended his first Cove when we played Motherwell in the Scottish cup back in January and is now fully versed in singing ' Cove Cove Super Cove ' and ' We're blue we're white, we're Highland Dynamite '

Aberdeenshire Shield Snippets by Easton Thain

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The shield as we know started in 1990-91 but the embryo for its birth really began in 1987-88 when the Aberdeenshire & District Football Association celebrated its centenary with the Centenary Shield. In the four quarterfinals all the winning teams secured clean sheets, Cove Rangers 2-0 at Buckie Thistle, Huntly 4-0 at Deveronvale, Keith 1-0 at Fraserburgh whilst Peterhead whacked an Aberdeen XI 3-0 at Recreation Park. The semi-finals were close run affairs with Cove Rangers winning 2-1 at Keith, Mitch Bavidge and Chico McHardy netting for the Allan Park side. Meantime at Recreation Park, the Blue Toon saw off Huntly 3-2 with goals from Bain, Loch and Burke. The Final on July 29th 1987 was as tight but Peterhead triumphed with Blue Toon legend Nat Porter netting the only goal of the game. The Peterhead goalie that night was one John Gardiner later player and manager of Huntly The first Aberdeenshire Shield was secured by Cove Rangers and it was historic in other ways as well being the Allan Park side’s first triumph as a senior side. Fraserburgh were the opponents and a dour final that remained goalless after 90 minutes, the 933 crowd hardly having anything to shout about but nine minutes into extra-time Donald Smith got the only goal of the game to secure the former Fleming Charity Shield. If anything the goal-scoring hero as an unlikely one, in nine previous appearances in North finals for various clubs Donald had never managed to score a goal! Former Caledonian player Kenny Taylor was in the winning Buckie Thistle side in the 1992 triumph over Huntly at Keith, in his next final he was manager of Cove Rangers who faced Deveronvale at Keith in 1994 but it was not so happy an occasion for him with the Banff side triumphing Probably the most celebrated player who appeared in a final was a former Scotland player who had also on a European club competition winners’ medal. That was none other than big Doug Rougvie former Aberdeen star. He appeared for Huntly in the 1992 final against Buckie Thistle and scored the winning goal, sadly it as for the Jags as he found his own net, the first own goal in a Shield Final! Off field the most famous person to manage a Shield winning side has to be the man who started his career in the Highland League coming to prominence with a cup final winning double. He then went on to star in the Scottish Premier League, various leagues in England and also for Scotland scoring the opening goal in the successful qualification for the Euro 96 Finals. In later life he stood out as an assistant manager to one of the Highland Leagues great characters though at a Scottish League side, whom he is involved with now a U-20 level.

The man in question is Duncan Shearer who managed Buckie Thistle to their 2007 triumph over Inverurie Locos. Oh, his cup winning double whilst in the HFL? Both goals for Clachnacuddin when they defeated Brora Rangers 2-1 to in the Highland League Cup in 1981/ 82! The highest scoring game in the Shields history came on November 3rd 1992 at Christie Park when Huntly ran riot to beat Keith 7-4, Brian Thomson registering a hat-trick. The highest scoring final was the amazing clash between fierce rivals Fraserburgh and Peterhead. It looked plain sailing for the Blue Toon as they raced to a 3-0 lead but then the Broch battlers staged an astonishing recovery leveling it in the final minute. That broke their deadliest foes and in extra-time the Bellslea side ran amok to net three more times and in the clash 6-3! Who would be a programme editor?! You would think a 4-page effort to mark a final would be straightforward to do and all mistakes noticed before the issue went to print - er, no! Yours truly got the go ahead to mark the 1998 final with a 4-page effort run off at a local trust for the unemployed. So intent was I on making sure the innards were AOK I didn’t bother checking the cover which was done by a fellow trainee. And so when the programme was dished out, I mean sold, the punter as surprised to learn that Kieth FC were playing Peterhead FC for the Aberdeenshire Shield! Always proof read at least three times as the lesson. I am sure there will be no mistakes in my article this time, that right Mr. Ed! Two teams can claim to have provided the biggest shocks in this competition. Staking the first claim were junior side Banks O’ Dee for their heroics in 2008-09. First of all they dumped holders Buckie Thistle out of the competition with a stunning 3-1 win at Spain Park, a result that led to the sacking of Kevin Will as the Thistle manager. One person that night was virtually purple with rage - I think I have just about recovered now! The Dee though proved it as no fluke as they absolutely walloped Huntly in the semi-final winning 6-1 also at Spain Park. Sadly their luck run out in the final as they lost 0-2 to Cove Rangers. Arguably topping that though were Turriff United in 2010/ 11. They saw off Peterhead at Balmoor, 1-0, before an exciting semi-final saw them account for Inverurie Locos 3-1 at Harlaw after extra-time. No one gave them much of a chance in the final against a strong young Aberdeen side, who fielded Michael Paton, Peter Pawlett and Josh Magennis, but the Haughs side put on a sensational display to in 2-0 and claim their first silverware as a senior side. (Continued on page 24)

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Joe Barbour, Goalkeeper, Age 23: Joe is a local loon with a lot of promise. He has made several first team appearances and has also been loaned out at Junior level to gain valuable experience. He played an integral part in winning the Aberdeenshire Cup in the last two seasons and has now taken over No.1 spot at the club in his own right. Appearances: 44 Edward Flinn, Goalkeeper, Age 18 A young goalkeeper who joined the club last season having been on the books at St. Johnstone. Ed has featured mainly at U20 level this season and made his 1st team debut as a replacement for Joe Barbour in the recent Highland League match against Formartine United. Appearances: 2 Cameron Buchan, Defender, Age 20: Cammy is in a similar position to Joe having made several first team appearances but mostly loaned out to Juniors clubs. He is very composed on the ball and good in the air and is an excellent dead ball taker. Scored his first senior goal for the club against Lossiemouth in the League Cup last week. Appearances: 23; Goals: 1 Russell McBride, Defender/Striker, Age 37: Signed for the Broch 19 years ago but spent two seasons at Elgin City between that time. As club captain Russell is a great leader and one who the younger lads look up to. A tough tackling defender Russell is also very skilful and chips in with the odd goal at set pieces. Has now clocked up over 550 appearances and lifted the Aberdeenshire Cup at Christie Park this season where he was name man of the match. Appearances: 567; Goals: 94 Marc Dickson, Defender, Age 28: Peterhead lad, Marc is one of the most senior players at the club now. He is regarded as one of the best full back/defensive midfield players in the league with his ball winning and passing ability. His lung bursting runs down the right wing create lots of chances for his teammates and he pops up with the odd goal as well. Marc has now made over 350 appearances for the club. Appearances: 367; Goals: 15 Courtney Cooper, Defender, Age 21: Courtney burst into the 1st team five seasons ago making his debut at Rothes and hasn’t looked back. He can play at full back or in midfield, composed on the ball & a good passer. Courtney’s opportunities have been limited this season due to work commitments but he has scored some crucial goals for the club and clocked up over 150 appearances. Appearances: 161; Goals: 26 Ryan Cowie, Defender, Age 24: Ryan has been with the club for three seasons now having been signed from Turriff United. He is the younger brother of Mark and Dean Cowie and has a bright future ahead of him. He can play wide on either flank but more often than not turns out at left full back. His delivery from the left and from corners and free kicks cause many dangerous situations for opponents and led to the winner against Turriff in the Scottish Cup tie this season. Appearances: 139; Goals: 11 Stuart Taylor, Defender, Age 22: One of Mark Cowie’s close season signings Stuart has previously played for Peterhead and Turriff United. Mainly operates as a right back although he can play at centre half as well. Stuart has already impressed with his defensive qualities and sure to feature prominently in the first team this season having started the recent games at Inverurie & Lossiemouth. Appearances: 20; Goals: 0

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William West, Midfielder, Age 28: Willie is an assured midfield player with an eye for goal having notched 17 last season from an advanced role behind the strikers. He is another player who despite his young age has amassed over 400 appearances for the club. He has also scored over 100 goals for the club during that time. He has a great range of passing and is excellent in the air can also adapt to a defensive role as he has done in recent games. Appearances: 422; Goals: 114 Graham Johnston, Forward, Age 30: Graham played for Scotland Schoolboys and has the capability to play in any position. One of the Broch’s and the Highland League’s best players on his day. Graham is the leading scorer at the club and has a happy knack of notching vital goals just like his double in the Aberdeenshire Cup Final victory over Buckie Thistle last season. He is one of the Broch’s main threats from set pieces setting up Steven Davidson’s clincher against Locos in the Aberdeenshire Cup Final. Appearances: 427; Goals: 157 Grant Noble, Forward, Age 28: Former Deveronvale and Turriff United player Grant joined towards the tail end 2012/3 season. Despite injury problems he featured on a regular basis last season scoring 3 times. He will be remembered for the vital winner against Montrose in the Scottish Cup two years ago. Grant has played a prominent role in the Broch’s fine start to the season scoring a belter at Turriff in the Highland League match. Appearances: 87; Goals: 14 Michael Rae, Midfielder, Age 28: Michael has rejoined the club from Maud Juniors recently having been at Fraserburgh as a youth. He has been instrumental in Maud’s challenge for honours in recent season and will bring experience and energy to the Broch side having captained the juniors at Maud. Made a scoring debut against Rothes in his second spell with the club. Appearances: 26; Goals: 1 Peter Alexander Bruce, Forward, Age 25: P-A signed for the Broch on a permanent basis from Peterhead FC at the start of 2013/14 season having had several loan spells with the club. He is a tricky player, with two good feet and plenty of pace. He has a great shot on him and has found the net 38 times including the winner in the Aberdeenshire Cup Final last season. He has recently returned to the squad after being away due to work commitments. Appearances: 98; Goals: 38 Aidan Combe, Forward, Age 18: Joined the club last summer having previously played for Keith at under 17 level. It was during a match against the Broch where he came to the club’s attention with his attacking wing play and pace causing all sorts of problems for the Bellslea side. Scored his first goal for the club at Keith last April and notched his first goal at Bellslea Park against Rothes which was also the club’s 7000th. Aidan has scored in each of his last three appearances for the club. Appearances: 48; Goals: 6 Paul Campbell, Forward, Age 23: Paul is a forward and has joined the Broch from Maud. He has been on the scoresheet regularly in the junior ranks over the past two seasons at FC Stoneywood and notched his first goal for the Broch at Lossiemouth in the League Cup from the penalty spot and has notched another two since then. He is good in the air and has blistering pace. Appearances: 14; Goals: 5 Also part of today’s squad will be youngsters Bailey Simpson, Kane McCrory & Nathan Stuart who have showed up very well in the U17 & U20 development sides this season and have all already made their first team debuts for the club this season.

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Joe Barbour

Marc Dickson

Russell McBride

Ryan Cowie

Stuart Taylor

Michael Rae

William West

Paul Campbell

Graham Johnston

Grant Noble

Courtney Cooper

Aidan Combe

Peter Bruce

Cameron Buchan

Nathan Stuart

Bailey Simpson

Kane McCrory

Edward Flinn

Manager: Mark Cowie

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Stuart McKenzie

John McCafferty

Grant Campbell

Dean Lawrie

Darryn Kelly

Eric Watson

Alan Redford

Stirling Smith

Harry Milne

Stuart Walker

Blair Yule

Roy McBain

Stuart Duff

Daryl Nicol

Daniel Park

Sam Burnett

Jonny Smith Connor Scully Dean Donaldson Jamie Watt Manager: John Sheran

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Stuart McKenzie - Goalkeeper. Age 28, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in May 2015 having spent the

past two years at Montrose. As everyone knows from his previous spell with the Club he commands his box

well and is a great shot stopper.

Sponsored by: CRFC Supporters Club

John McCafferty - Goalkeeper. Age 30, born Dundee. Signed in July 2015 having previously been with

Montrose. He will put pressure on Stuart for the No. 1 spot and keep him on his toes. Also acts as our

Goalkeeping Coach.

Grant Campbell - Defender. Age 26, born Wick. Signed for Cove in December 2015 from Wick Academy.

A top class defender who can also play in midfield. Has a tremendous commitment to the game as was

proved when he travelled weekly from his home in Cove to turn out for the Scorries.

Dean Lawrie - Defender. Age 27, born Aberdeen. Formerly with Cove Boys Club, Dean has performed

consistently well over the past six Seasons after his promotion from the Under 19 side. He looks

comfortable playing in any left sided position and is an important member of the side.

Sponsored by: Grampian Packaging Supplies Ltd

Darryn Kelly – Defender. Age 27, born Greenock. Signed from Culter JFC in July 2014 where he won

every local Junior honour. Looking to establish himself in the heart of the Cove defence for many years to

come.

Sponsored by: Core Business Services Ltd

Eric Watson - Defender. Age 33, born Dundee. Signed in July 2007 from Tayport Juniors having

previously played with Montrose Roselea. A strong player with terrific pace and good distribution of the

ball. Has a tremendous goalscoring rate for a defender.

Sponsored by: Contract Solutions Grampian Ltd

Alan Redford - Defender. Age 35, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in July 2010 having previously played

with Huntly. A versatile player who can perform highly in any defensive role. Missed most of last Season

through injury but has fully recovered.

Sponsored by: Space Solutions Group

Stirling Smith - Defender. Age 24, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in October 2011 having previously

played for Aberdeen, Peterhead and Alloa Athletic. Can play on the left side or in central defence. A very

energetic player who is now a valuable member of the squad.

Harry Milne – Defender. Age 19, born Aberdeen. Signed for the Club in September 2014 and was loaned

out to Culter Juniors last Season. Has shown up well in Pre-Season Friendlies and will put pressure on the

first choice defenders for a starting berth.

Sponsored by: Moira Morrison

Stuart Walker – Defender. Age 30, born Aberdeen. Signed for the club from Keith in December 2013.

Went out on loan last Season to Glentanar Juniors and Colony Park Juniors but came back into the side at

the tail end of last Season with great effect. A strong tackler and a very reliable player to have in your

side.

Sponsored by: Bob Walker, Towergate Insurance, Aberdeen

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Blair Yule - Midfielder. Age 23, born Aberdeen. Signed for the Club in July 2010 having previously played

youth football for Montrose F.C. Was loaned out to Dyce Juniors but was recalled due to an injury crisis

midway through Season 2010/11. Has now established himself in the First team and had another superb

Season last year.

Sponsored by: Fernbank Financial Services (Portlethen)

Roy McBain - Midfielder. Age 40, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in January 2013 from Peterhead after

having completed a loan spell from the aforementioned Club. His years of SPL and SFL experience are vital

to the Squad as the Club continues its quest to return to the top.

Stuart Duff - Midfielder, Age 33, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in October 2014 having previously

played with FC Kairat in Kazakhstan. His previous SPFL experience with Dundee United, Aberdeen and

Inverness CT will prove invaluable to the lads around him, especially the younger ones.

Sponsored by: Hunter Construction (Aberdeen) Ltd

Daryl Nicol - Midfielder/Forward. Age 25, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in July 2014 having previously

been with Montrose. Started off in midfield but has been moved up front and is rattling the goals in on a

regular basis

Sponsored by: George Stewart

Daniel Park - Midfield/Forward. Age 25, born Aberdeen. Signed in June 2014 from Formartine United.

Now in his second spell with the Club and looking to replicate the form he showed when last here.

Sponsored by: Core Business Services Ltd

Sam Burnett - Midfielder. Age 19, born Aberdeen. Signed in September 2014 having previously been with

Arbroath. Has been a regular in our Aberdeenshire League side this Season and is now part of our First

Team Squad.

Sponsored by: Bon Accord Granite

Jonny Smith - Striker, Age 27, born Wigan. Signed for Cove in December 2013 from Keith FC. Previously

played for Peterhead in Scottish League after moving north. A prolific goalscorer who has fitted into our

style of play quickly and will continue to find the net on a regular basis.

Sponsored by: EaziLawn Synthetic Grass

Connor Scully - Midfielder/Forward. Age 23, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in June 2012 from Dee

Boys Club. Had loan spells with Dyce Junior and Banchory St. Ternan but was recalled two Seasons ago and

quickly established himself in the 1st team Squad.

Dean Donaldson - Striker. Age 33, born Aberdeen. Signed in December 2015 from Huntly. Previously with Keith and Inverurie Loco Works he has a proven goalscoring record over the years and will be a valuable addition to the Squad as we battle for the Title. Jamie Watt - Striker. Age 37, born Aberdeen. Signed for Cove in July 2014 having spent several years in Sydney, Australia. Was with Cove prior to going to Oz. Has been a regular goalscorer throughout his

career, mainly spent in the SHFL. His goals could prove vital if we are to lift silverware this Season.

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Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield, First Round, Wednesday 30th September 2015 Huntly v Cove Rangers, Christie Park, Huntly Two second half goals saw Cove Rangers advance to the quarter-finals of the Aberdeenshire Shield to face Keith after a two-nil win over Huntly. Midway through the half Alexander Thoirs ran onto a Gary McNamee through ball and had the ball in the back of the net but Assistant Referee Cameron Wallace flagged the full back offside. Debutant Andrew Pennycook impressed in goal in the first half parrying a Jamie Watt shot. Top scorer Daryl Nicol followed up the rebound but Thoirs cleared off the line. Good defending from Eric Watson saw the Cove defender cut out a David Booth cross as James Duguid looked to meet the delivery inside the visitor’s goalmouth. Stuart Walker had a ball cleared off the line while Pennycook again denied Watt with minutes of the half remaining. The big goalkeeper was called into action in stoppage time turning a Nicol effort round the post. Huntly went down to ten men before the hour mark when Gary Davidson picked up a second caution following a late tackle. Pennycook continued to keep out another visiting attack pulling off a solid stop from a powerful Stuart Walker drive. It took Huntly 71 minutes to register their first and only shot on target. A corner was cleared outside of the visiting penalty area and substitute Adam McNamee got the ball twenty yards out and forced a great stop from John McCafferty. From the resultant corner, Mark Lawson headed over. Cove broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Daryl Nicol latched onto a ball in behind the home defence before finishing at the back post. With two minutes remaining, Cove pushed forward and when Alexander Thoirs was lying injured in his own box playing Daryl Nicol onside, the forward crossed the ball for Connor Scully to fire home. Full-Time: Huntly 0 Cove Rangers 2 Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield, Quarter Final, Wednesday 28th October 2015 Keith v Cove Rangers, Kynoch Park, Keith Cove Rangers had a comfortable win at Kynoch Park against Keith. Daryl Nicol gave the visitors the lead on 15 minutes and Jonny Smith and Eric Watson scored in the first five minutes of the second half to round off the scoring. Full-Time: Keith 0 Cove Rangers 3

Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield, Quarter Final, Wednesday 17th February 2016 Formartine United Cove Rangers, North Lodge Park, Pitmedden Jonny Smith scored a hat-trick as Cove cruised through to the Aberdeenshire Shield final where they will play Fraserburgh at a venue to be confirmed. Both teams started edgy with neither side creating anything and possession was being lost every few seconds. The first half chance didn’t come until 20 minutes in when Smith’s low drive from the right hand side was saved well by Reid and the follow up was cleared. The home side thought they had taken the lead when Stuart Anderson’s shot from the edge of the box hit the crossbar and Stuart Smith’s headed effort from the rebound was headed off the line by Cove defender Harry Milne to keep the score goalless. The visitors opened the scoring eight minutes into the second half when Nicol broke away and hit a low drive at Reid, whose save went only as far as Smith to smash home from close range and open the scoring. Only 60 seconds later Smith doubled his and Cove’s tally when Nicol played him through and he struck the ball low under the on-rushing Reid from just inside the box. Formartine had a glimmer of hope midway through the second half when Gauld went round Stuart Mackenzie and from a tight angle put the ball across goal, which led to Watson turning it into his own net. Shortly after substitute Cammy Keith had a free header from Jamie Masson’s free kick to put the home side level, but his header from the penalty spot went just wide of the target. The visitors regained their two-goal cushion with 15 minutes to go when substitute Scully crossed the ball from the left hand side to the back post, where Smith with volleyed it home to secure the match ball. Cove killed off the game with eight minutes to go when Nicol capitalised on Henry’s mistake, took the ball round Reid and slotted home from just inside the box. Scully nearly rubbed salt in the wounds when his right footed drive rebounded off the post and away to keep the score down to only four. Full-Time: Formartine United 1 Cove Rangers 4 Reporter: Lewis Gordon

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Aberdeenshire Shield Final Match Officials: Referee: Graham Beaton, Assistant Referees: Bob Inkster & Daniel Donohoe, Fourth Official: Calum Spence

Referee Courses – June 2016 The next referee courses commences on Wednesday 8th June 2016 at 7.00 p.m. in The Grammar FP’s Club, Queen’s Road, Aberdeen, and will run for a period of 8 weeks. Sessions will be held on Wednesday nights from 7.00 – 9.00 p.m. The cost of the course is £45 which includes all training material, and membership of the Association to the end of season 2016/17. If you are interested or would like more information, then please contact the class instructor, Roddycobb@sky.com (07769 636400). The Coaching Instructor, Roddy Cobb has a wealth of experience as a referee, and is a former member of the SFA List of Senior Referees. He has lengthy experience as a member of the Coaching Team. Roddy will also be supported by other experienced senior referees. How about you give these two little tests ago and see how you get on? http://www.scottishfa.co.uk/football_quiz.cfm?page=3157 http://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish_football.cfm?page=3156 Contact the class instructor, Roddy Cobb (01224 729610 / 07769 636400)

Today's match officials are respected figures in Highland League circles, with many years refereeing experience between them, and are well known to both sides this afternoon. Today's man in the middle, Graham Beaton, is a Category 1 Development referee. Mr. Beaton is taking charge of his third Aberdeenshire Shield Final, having previously officiated Fraserburgh’s 5-0 win over Banks O’ Dee, in season 2011/12 & Turriff United’s 6-1 win over Cove Rangers, the following year. Today’s match is Mr. Beaton’s third final of the current campaign, having also taken charge of the Aberdeenshire Cup & Highland League Cup finals. Career highlights include: Officiating a Highland League title decider, on the last day of the season, Taking charge of three HFL Cup Finals, Being promoted to Category 1 Development & therefore officiating SPFL games, Officiating a match at Hampden Park, just two weeks ago, between Queen’s Park & Clyde. The Assistant Referees are Bob Inkster who has been a member of the Aberdeen Referees Association for 25 years. Bob refereed in Junior football for 12 years and for the last 11 years has been an Assistant Referee in the Highland League. Bob is joined on the line by Daniel Donohoe who has been a referee assistant in the highland league for a number of years. Progressed through Refereeing from juvenile, amateur, junior to highland league assistant. A career full of highlights which are too many to mention - from school final at Hampden Park to SHFL League Finals Our 4th official is Calum Spence, who was promoted to a Category 3 referee and has been on the Highland League scene for a number of seasons.

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Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Semi Final, Tuesday 2nd February 2016, Inverurie Loco Works v Fraserburgh, Harlaw Park, Inverurie The opening stages were very cagey with neither side creating many chances despite the visitors being on top slightly. The deadlock was broken mid-way through the first half when Dean Cowie corner met the head of West who headed goal bound and had enough on it to just put it over the line. Inverurie came out for the second half like a cat catching a mouse as seconds into the half they equalised after Hunter played the ball through to Maitland who took a touch to control and fired low under Barbour from the edge of the box. It didn’t take long for the home side to edge in front as Jeffrey got a flick on the Neil Mclean corner which landed right at Hunter’s feet who tapped it in from close range putting Locos ahead for the first time in the match. Neither side created much after the goal until the Broch equalised mid-way through the second half when R Cowie beat Keirin McCaffrey at his near post directly from the corner which sent the game into extra time. On the brink of half time of extra time lots of pushing and shoving occurred after a free kick was given to Locos which resulted in both Ryan Christie of Fraserburgh and Stephen Jeffrey of Inverurie being ordered off by referee Scott Leslie. From that resulting free kick Hunter found the top corner from 20 yards giving the home side the advantage in extra time. Despite the eight yellow cards in extra time the Broch equalised in the 120th minute after Johnston hit a driven free kick from 45 yards which took a massive deflection off of Locos forward Maitland leaving the keeper wrong footed and the ball trickled in for the Broch equaliser making sure it was going to the dreaded penalties. The first three pens were scored convincingly the fourth from substitute Paul Campbell just made it in the net after McCaffrey getting a strong hand behind it but not enough to stop it from hitting the wood work and find the net. Barbour then saved to his left to deny Ryan Keir and give the visitor the advantage, they couldn’t capitalise on it as Cooper fired over. Both Mclean and Hay finished calmly. Michael Selfridge stepped up to take Loco’s fifth pen but fired horribly over, this gave West the opportunity to win it and did so firing into the top right corner send Fraserburgh to the final. Fraserburgh may have 2 or 3 suspended as a result of the numerous yellow cards shown through out. After Extra Time: Inverurie Loco Works 3 Fraserburgh 3 (Fraserburgh won 4-3 on penalties)

Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield, Quarter Final, Wednesday 28th October 2015 Buckie Thistle v Fraserburgh, Victoria Park, Buckie Buckie had the first chance after 21 minutes when Kai Ross crossed from the right to Dennis Wyness who headed wide from six yards out. Five minutes later a mistake in the Buckie defence saw Willie West pick the ball up and play in Marc Lawrence who shot from distance which keeper Sim parried to safety. On 34 minutes John Chalmers made a mistake at the other end and Kevin Fraser found Dennis Wyness with a cross but the striker’s effort was saved by Paul Leask. On 42 minutes Buckie’s Stuart Taylor was booked for a kick at Aidan Combe. A Minute later the Broch should have taken the lead when Aidan Combe’s corner to the back of the box was met by Ryan Christie but he headed wide from a great position. Right on half time West picked the ball up outside the box and sent in a speculative shot which just dipped over the bar. The Broch almost took the lead five minutes into the second half when Combe worked an opening for West and his sweeping shot came off the inside of the post and rebounded to safety. On 54 minutes Kevin Fraser’s cross was headed over by Iain Macrae. Three minutes later another chance from a Kevin Fraser corner was put past the post by Wyness. On 69 minutes a corner by Combe was cleared to the edge of the box to Dean Cowie who saw his shot saved by Sim. With 12 minutes remaining Combe had a great chance for the Broch when he raced clear of the Buckie defence but chipped his shot straight into the keeper’s hands. With 86 minutes gone Dean Cowie had another chance for the Broch but fired straight at the keeper. Kai Ross then tried his luck from 25 yards out which Leask saved and Marc Dickson was booked right at the end when he pulled back Scott as he broke free. Full Time: Buckie Thistle 0 Fraserburgh 0 The Broch defender was then sent off in extra time for another foul on Fraser. Shaun Carroll took the free kick but Leask saved the effort. Stuart Taylor went close for Buckie on 107 minutes when he beat three Broch defenders but he shot just past the post. After Extra Time: Buckie Thistle 0 Fraserburgh 0 Both team scored with their three penalties from Christie, Chalmers, Noble for the Broch and Carroll, Wood, Scott for Buckie. Hay made it 4-3 and Patterson then missed for the Jags. Taylor had a chance to win it for the Broch but his penalty was saved and Ross tied things up. Leask and Munro swapped kicks before Lawrence saw his kick saved by Sim. Macrae could have won it for Buckie but Leask produced a wonder save and Combe then put the Broch 6-5 meaning Sim had to score for Buckie but he hit the bar to send the Broch through to a semi final against Inverurie Loco Works.

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1922 Cove Rangers founded - joined the Aberdeen Juvenile League. 1947 Became a founder member of the Aberdeen Amateur Football Association. Won the 1st of their 11 Championships in Season1947-48. 1948 Purchased a piece of land from local farmer, Mr. Allan, and became the first Amateur side in Aberdeen to own their own ground. 1953-54 Entered the Scottish Amateur Cup and reached the final losing 1-0 to Royal Technical College. 1964-65 Won the League Championship without losing a game. 1981 After narrowly avoiding relegation to Division 2 by one point the Club turned to former Player, Alan McRae, present Club President, to take the helm. 1984 Won the coveted Aberdeen F.C. Trophy for the 15th time. Became the first Aberdeen Amateur side to open their own Social Club. 1985 Joined the Junior ranks and won the Second Division title in Season 1985-86 during which time they applied for admission to the Highland Football league and were duly accepted. 1986 Joined the Highland Football League with Tommy Cummings as Manager. 1987 Beaten in final of the Aberdeenshire Centenary Cup at Peterhead. 1988-89 Dave Watson takes over as Manager. Finished runners-up in the Highland League. 1989-90 Reached the final of the Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) and were narrowly beaten by Elgin City 1-0. Beaten 2-1 by Queen of the South in the 1st Round of the Scottish Cup. 1990-91 Reached the final of the Tennent’s Highland League Cup losing 2-1 to Elgin City. Reached the finals of both the Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) and Aberdeenshire Shield winning both games against Fraserburgh 1-0. Played first ever Scottish Cup match at Allan Park losing 2-1 to Cowdenbeath in the 3rd Round to miss out on a trip to Ibrox to face Glasgow Rangers in the 4th Round. 1992-93 Beaten by Huntly in the final of the Tennent’s Highland League Cup and Scottish Qualifying Cup ( North ) - both times after penalty kicks. Defeated Montrose in the 2nd Round of the Scottish Cup before being beaten by East Stirling in a 3rd Round replay. Finished runners-up in the League Championship. 1993-94 Qualified again for the Scottish Cup but for the second year in succession were knocked out by East Stirling, this time in the second round. Dave Watson resigns as Manager to take up a similar post at Peterhead F.C. Kenny Taylor, a former Player at the Club, appointed as Manager. 1994-95 Beat Lossiemouth in the final of the Tennent’s Highland League Cup on penalties. Defeated Cowdenbeath in the 2nd Round of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup before losing to Dunfermline Athletic in the 3rd Round. Beaten in both the finals of the Aberdeenshire Shield and Aberdeenshire Cup by Deveronvale and Huntly, respectively. Finished Runners-Up in the League Championship 1995-96 Beaten by Huntly in the final of the Tennent’s Highland League Cup. Finished Runners-Up in the League Championship. Kenny Taylor resigns as Manager. 1996-97 Jimmy Wilson takes over as Manager and then resigns in mid August due to pressure of work. Dave Cormie takes over as Manager. 1997-98 Beaten by Elgin City in the Final of the Tennent’s Highland League Cup. Dave Cormie resigns as manager in October 1997. Doug Rougvie takes over as Manager in November 1997. 1998-99 Doug Rougvie and John Hewitt resign from their positions as Manager and Assistant Manager. Bob Summers appointed soon after. 1999/2000 Won the Tennent’s Highland League Cup at Keith by defeating Elgin City 4-3 after having been down 3-1 at half-time. 2000/01 Won Tennent’s Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) at Huntly by defeating Keith 4-2 after extra time. Won Aberdeenshire Shield at Peterhead by defeating Buckie Thistle 2-1. Beaten 3-0 by Peterhead in the 2nd Round of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup. Won the Highland League Championship for the 1st time. Won the Aberdeenshire & District League for the 1st time. 2001/02 Won the Aberdeenshire Cup for 1st time in Club’s history defeating Deveronvale on penalties in the Final at Pittodrie Stadium. Manager, Bob Summers resigns in March 2002. Kevin Walker takes charge. Won Inter-League Trophy which was a new competition featuring Highland, East of Scotland and South of Scotland League teams. Beat Huntly 1-0 at Inverurie. 2002/03 Beaten in the final of the Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) by Keith on penalty kicks after drawing the match 2-2 after extra time. Defeated by Gretna 3-0 in the 2nd Round of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup. 2003/04 Kevin Walker resigns as Manager in April 2004. John Sheran takes over as Manager later that month. 2004/05 Beaten 4-0 in the final of the Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) by Inverurie Loco Works. Beat Dalbeattie Star in the 1st Round of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup before tumbling at home to full-time Morton in the 2nd Round, conceding 7 goals in the process. Won Foster’s Highland League Cup by defeating Deveronvale 2-0 at Keith. 2005/06 Beaten 6-1 in the 2nd round of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup by eventual finalists, Gretna. Beaten 4-1 by Fraserburgh in the Final of the Foster’s Highland League Cup. 2007/08 Beaten 4-2 by Ross County in the 4th Round of the Scottish Cup. Won Highland League Championship for 2nd time. Beaten by Inverurie Loco Works in Final of Highland League Cup. 2008/09 Won the Highland League Championship for 3rd time. Won the Aberdeenshire Shield defeating Banks O’ Dee 2-0 in the Final. 2009/10 Runners Up in the Highland League Championship. Beaten by Buckie Thistle in the Final of the Aberdeenshire Cup. 2010/11 Won the Aberdeenhire Cup defeating Buckie Thistle 3-0 in the Final. Won the Aberdeenshire & District League. 2011/12 Runners Up in the Highland League Championship. Runners Up in the Highland League Cup. Won the Aberdeenshire & District League for second year in a row. 2012/13 Won the Highland League Championship for 4th time. Won the Aberdeenshire & District League for third year in a row.

26 YEARS OF EXCITEMENT! The Aberdeenshire Shield came to life in season 1990/91 although that is not completely true for it had a former life as the Fleming Charity Shield competed for in the early 1900’s. It was one of the favourites to win it that would create history although it took extra-time to decide the destiny of the Shield. Coming into the competition with the Scottish Qualifying Cup (North) under their belts were Cove Rangers, the Q-Cup being their first-ever trophy success as a senior side. The final was against Fraserburgh and proved to be an extremely tight tussle and went all the way into extra time before, in the 99th minute, Donald Smith hit the only goal of the game. Space restricts a real in depth look at the winners since then so here is a resume of the winners since then and from this you can see two teams stand out as being the ‘Shield Kings’ – Fraserburgh and Keith. 1991/92 – There had been disappointment for Fraserburgh in 1990 but the Bellslea boys triumphed for the first time in this season. The final against Deveronvale was a belter of a game ended 2-2 after extra-time and that meant the dreaded penalty shoot-out and it was the Buchan Boys edged this 4-3! 1992/93 – Buckie Thistle tasted success for the first time and faced Huntly in the final at Keith and it was a fantastic game that ebbed and flowed. The Tigers twice took the lead and twice the Jags responded, the second time from a marvellous free-kick from Gordon Robertson free-kick, before an own goal from Doug Rougvie decided the match. Ian Mathieson lifted the massive Shield but the funniest thing that night was when it was passed to the diminutive Ian Bruce who nearly fell over with its weight! 1993/94 – The cup was on its way to Bellslea again! The final against Keith at Christie Park was a quite brilliant game in which Mike Stephen put the Broch one up in just 20 seconds! In the end the Broch triumphed 4-2. 1994/95 – A new name on the Shield, and a real triumph for Deveronvale and the final was against Cove at Keith and a close game was settled in the 82nd minute when Bruce Morrison handled in the box and Paul Bridgeford netted from the spot.

1995/ 96 – It was back to Bellslea for the cup again and the Broch met deadly local rivals Peterhead. It was a close encounter but the Broch edged it 2-1 the winner coming from Kris Hunter. 1996/97 – Holders Fraserburgh faced Peterhead again. It was an incredible game and, after 70 minutes, the Shield was heading to Peterhead as they were cruising along 3-0 up. However, the Broch then pulled 2 back but as the game entered the 90th minute the Blue Toon looked likely winners but then, in the final moments Russell McBride slammed home the equaliser. That meant extra-time and the Broch went goal crazy and won 6-3! 1997/98 – A first success for Keith against Peterhead at Banff and the teams fairly warmed the fans up on a raw night. Peterhead took the lead but Keith turned it around to lead 2-1 only for the Blue Toon to dig out an equaliser. The Maroons though would not be denied and won the game courtesy of a brilliant goal from all-time top scorer Derek Nicol who waltzed past the defence before smashing home the winner. 1998/99 – A repeat of the previous season but the teams tossed a coin for venue and Keith won that. However, home advantage did not count as Peterhead blasted their way to a 3-1 success thanks to a Ray Yule double and one from Colin ‘Kinger’ Milne 1999/00 – A nap hand of successes wracked up for Fraserburgh in a cracking game against Keith who again won the toss for venue! In the final the Broch took just 24 seconds to net through Kris Hunter. Keith levelled in 12 minutes and then nothing could separate the teams until the 87th minute when Ian ‘Molby’ Murray flashed home the winner. 22

Above and below: Action from 2007-08 clash between Inverurie Locos and Buckie Thistle at Christie Park, Huntly which saw the Jags triumph 3-0 & 2011-12 at Balmoor Stadium where Fraserburgh romped to a 5-0 win over Banks O’ Dee

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2003/04 – Locos saw off Fraserburgh and Keith to reach their second final and guess who they played – Deveronvale who also won a toss of a coin to host the game! The Harlaw Park side, though, exacted terrible revenge with a fantastic display. By the 16th minute Locos were two up through a thumping drive from Craig Ross and a close range effort from some chiel called Stuart McKay. Vale pulled one back but Locos could have had four by the break. In the 65th minute Craig Ross netted with a speculative shot and when Andy Low smashed home No 4 five minutes on it was all over. 2004/05 – Locos made the final again and met old adversaries Keith in the final and they won the toss for venue. After 11 minutes it was 1-1 and it promised goals galore but neither could find a winner in 90 minutes! In extra-time though Keith took control when Dean Donaldson netted a beauty and Derek Nicol rounded off their win. 2005/06 – It was Keith v Locos again this time at Banff. Gary Nicol scored the fastest ever final goal putting Keith ahead in just 12 seconds! However, after 10 minutes he was sent off! Locos equalised in 24 minutes but then a brilliant Dean Donaldson run ended with his cross being headed home by Stuart Walker. 2006/07 – Just four days after losing to Fraserburgh in the Scottish Qualifying Cup Keith gained revenge with a 3-0 win in the Shield final and became the first side to complete a hat-trick of wins and they also equalled the Broch’s record of five wins! 2-0 up at the break through Jamie McAllister and Derek Nicol a third in 46 minutes by Jamie Lenox ended it as a contest. 2007/08 – With the Aberdeenshire Cup already won, Buckie Thistle were after the double by seeing off Inverurie Locos at Huntly and they did so with a devastating display. From the 25th minute Thistle were in control and Craig MacMillan had them ahead at the break. When Neil Davidson chested in the second in 51 minutes it was all but over and a powerful Andy Matheson header wrapped it up. 2008/09 – Cove Rangers faced shock troops Banks O’ Dee in the final, having shocked holders Buckie Thistle in round one, winning at Spain Park before annihilating Huntly 6-1 at the same venue! Cove was one step too far, though, and Rangers eased home 2-0 but the junior cracks were the heroes of the competition with their fantastic slayings of the Jags and Huntly 2009/10 - Peterhead were the masters by defeating Inverurie Locos 3-0 in the final at Balmoor Stadium and there were no major shocks in the competition.

Above: Action from 2008-09 final where Cove Rangers

beat Banks O’ Dee 2-0 at Harlaw Park, Inverurie

2000/01 – Cove ended a long wait for success number two and faced Buckie in the final which was held over until January 2001 and, to Rangers disbelief, the Jags agreed to play it at Balmoor, Peterhead! Scott Taylor and Mike Beattie had Rangers 2-0 ahead and although the Jags pulled one back the Shield was off to Allan Park 2001/02 – It was Keith versus Fraserburgh in the final again and it was another belter but this time the Maroons triumphed. A devastating first 45 saw Keith 3-0 up through Scott Paterson, Kenny McKenzie and a thumping Darren Still drive. In the second half Broch fought back ferociously and they pulled two back but the second was with just a minute remaining and the Maroons held their nerve to win. 2002/03 – The classic finals kept on coming as Deveronvale faced up to Inverurie Locos at Keith and the Banffers edged a marvellous match in dramatic fashion! Vale led 2-0 at the break only for Locos to draw level, the second coming in 87 minutes. Extra-time looked on but, just 60 seconds later Steven Park felled Ian ‘Molby’ Murray in the box and the wee striker netted from the spot to win the game!

Left: Action from 2010-11 Final which saw Turriff United beat Aberdeen 2-0 for their first success in the

tournament at Balmoor Stadium, Peterhead

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2010/11 - Turriff United faced up to Aberdeen at Balmoor Stadium, Peterhead. The men from the Haughs defeated Peterhead in the Quarter Final and then at Locos in the Semi. Aberdeen had accounted for Keith, Huntly & Cove Rangers on their way to the final but the were upset by a terrific performance from the HFL side which saw them win by 2-0 to lift their first trophy since coming into the HFL. 2011/12 – The final was held once again at Balmoor Stadium, Peterhead but this time Fraserburgh and Banks O’ Dee were the combatants. Fraserburgh had started their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory at home to Keith. That was followed by a more emphatic win over Buckie Thistle by 3 goals to 1. In the semi final at Harlaw Park the Broch men would need extra time to see of the challenge of Inverurie Loc Works again by a 3-1 scoreline. Meanwhile Banks O’ Dee received a bye in the first round and followed that up with a remarkable win over an Aberdeen XI at Spain Park by 3-1. The semi final was against holders Turriff United but after 120 minutes there were no goals and off to penalties we went where the ‘Dee won through by 3-0. The Final was a bit of an anti climax with the Broch outclassing their Junior opponents 5-0. Dean Cowie opened the scoring on 29 minutes from the penalty spot after Graham Johnston had been impeded. Scott Barbour made it 2-0 shortly after latching onto Steven Main’s pass and just before the break the striker turned provider when his cross was nodded back by Bryan Hay for Willie West to volley home from 10 yards. The one way traffic continued after the break with Bryan Hay making it 4-0 with a diving header from Steven Main’s free kick. Scott Barbour rounded things off sliding home from Johnston’s pass.

2012/13 – Turriff United and Cove Rangers contested the final at Harlaw Park in Inverurie. The men from the Haughs had a first round bye which they then followed up with a hard fought 2-1 win at Keith. A tougher task awaited them at North Lodge in the semi final so we thought but they made light work of Formartine smashing in 4 goals without reply. Cove Rangers meanwhile were racking up the goals with a 9-1 demolition of the Aberdeen Uni boys in the 1st Round.

A much closer game ensued in Round 2 against Locos where the Allan park men squeezed through 1-0 after extra time. That set up a home semi against Buckie Thistle and Cove produced another masterful defensive display to triumph 1-0. The final was expected to be just a close but Richie Singer was dismissed early in the game and Turriff routed their Aberdeen opponents with James Brownie, Ross Anderson, Max Berton (og), Nicky Gray, Ritchie Ligertwood and Gary McGowan all scoring in a one sided affair. Max Berton pulled one back for Cove. 2013/14 – Two year’s ago the final was contested by Inverurie Locos who had dispatched Buckie Thistle 3-1 in Round 1, Peterhead 3-2 in round 2 and Huntly 2-1 in the semi final after extra time. Turriff United started with a 2-0 win at local rivals Deveronvale before dispatching Fraserburgh 4-3 on penalties after an exciting 3-3 draw at Bellslea Park. It looked like they were eliminated at Cove 2-0 but the result was annulled after both teams fielded ineligible players and they took full advantage of the reprieve winning 1-0. For the 3rd year in a row the final was a blowout with Locos going nap thanks to Neil Gauld, Martin Bavidge (2), Chris Herd (og) and Andrew Hunter adding the fifth. 2014/15 – Last year’s competition saw eventual winners Turriff kick off with a 1-0 victory over Inverurie Locos at today’s final venue. Buckie Thistle saw off Aberdeen Uni 3-0 whilst Cove Rangers hammered Formartine United 5-2 and Fraserburgh overcame Huntly 2-1 at Christie Park. The quarter finals saw some cracking games with junior side Banks O’ Dee taking SPFL1 Peterhead to extra time before succumbing 2-1. Cove won away at Keith 3-0 whilst The Broch triumphed over Buckie Thistle 4-2. Turriff had another single goal victory over Deveronvale. The semi finals only saw one fixture as Peterhead withdrew from their local derby against Fraserburgh which left Turriff United to defeat Cove Rangers 2-1 after extra time to reach the final against the Broch at Banff and it was a classic with the Black and Whites twice having a two goal lead at 2-0 and 3-1 before Turriff came roaring back to score 3 times in the last 20 minutes and wrestle to shield from their grip.

Aberdeenshire Shield Snippets (Cont from page 11) Fraserburgh FC was the first team to successfully defend the Shield. Even better for them they defeated great rivals Peterhead both times. In 1995-96 the Broch edged it 2-1, current Formartine United boss Kris Hunter netting the winner and then in the aforementioned incredible 6-3 extra-time clash with the Blue Toon in 1996-97. Russell McBride, Kris Hunter and Clark Killoh netting the extra-time goals

The Shield as traditionally played before the end of the year in each season, it is only recently that the competition has been played post-Christmas. The only exception to that was for the final in 2000/ 01 between Cove Rangers and Buckie Thistle.

The game as held over unto January 2001.The Jags incredibly agreed to play the match at Balmoor Stadium, Peterhead and it being midweek meant they had little or no following for the long jaunt. Rangers took full advantage winning 2-1. The fastest final goal was netted by Kris Hunter for Fraserburgh in the 1999 Final at Kynoch Park, it took him 24 seconds to find the net and the Broch went on to win 2-1, the winner from Ian ‘Molby’ Murray coming in the 87th minute. The longest period between a team winning the Shield two times is 15 years, Buckie Thistle holding that ‘honour’. Triumph 1 was in 1992, triumph 2 in 2007.

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Ross McTavish (hfl hub)

That said, in football, favourites is the tag that no team wants – everyone would rather be the underdog… Regardless of that, the question is; how have Fraserburgh managed to do so well against Cove this season, especially when others have failed? The Aberdeen-based team won 29 of their 34 league games on their way to the title. In the five matches where Cove failed to emerge victorious, two were against Fraserburgh. Someone who has seen these two teams play more than most this season is www.hflhub.co.uk reporter Lewis Gordon. Having spoken to him about the subject, he believes the way the Broch have shaped up against Cove has been a big reason for their success in those fixtures. Fraserburgh’s Ryan Christie has played a pivotal role in font of the back four in nullifying creative midfielders such as Blair Yule and Stuart Duff. Another factor was that Cove striker Jonny Smith started two of the three games between the sides on the bench and missed the other fixture. The former Keith player is great at winning aerial battles and holding up the ball. But without Smith to provide a physical presence up front, Fraserburgh’s defenders comfortably won header after header. With Christie snuffing out short passes played forward from midfield and the Broch’s backline dealing well with any long balls, Cove’s prolific striker Daryl Nicol was often starved of service in these fixtures. However, Fraserburgh are without three key players for this clash. Christie, Bryan Hay and Dean Cowie are all suspended. If Broch boss Mark Cowie again plays a diamond formation in midfield, whoever fills Christie’s shoes and sits deepest has a key job to perform if his team is to win the Shield. Meanwhile, Smith has been in fine form for Cove towards the end of the season. If he plays and manages to cause the Broch backline problems, Nicol could benefit and be the difference maker. Ross McTavish (co-editor of www.hflhub.co.uk and former Evening Express sports reporter) Opportunity Enhancement Trust (OET) is a charity that uses football to help people improve their skills. That’s not skills with the ball at their feet, but rather skills in areas such as communication and numeracy. Part of the charity’s work involves running the www.hflhub.co.uk website and covering the Highland League for various media. OET works with reporters young and old to help them improve their reporting skills, while providing coverage for the league. OET is always on the lookout for new reporters, partners who may wish to get involved with our courses and people with ideas of how we can further our work. For more information, visit: http://opportunityenhancement.co.uk/

When looking at the Highland League table, one might make Cove heavy favourites for this game. The champions finished 36 points ahead of the Broch, who claimed ninth place. But closer inspection of the results between the two teams this season suggests Fraserburgh may be more deserving of the tag of favourites.

The two sides have squared off three times this term, twice in the Highland League and the other in the Aberdeenshire Cup. The Broch have won twice, with the other match ending in a draw.

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1996-97 – The Broch were looking to defend their trophy and started in fine style dispatching Keith by the slender margin of 1-0 thanks to Michael Stephen’s strike. A Russell McBride double was enough to see off Huntly in the semi final which set up a repeat of last year’s final against Peterhead this time at Cove. In an amazing match which saw the Broch trailing their great rivals by 3-0 with only 20 or so minutes to go. Russell McBride fired home a double before Kris Hunter scored the equalizing goal deep into injury time. There was only going to be one winner in extra time and further goals by Kris Hunter, Clark Killoh & Michael Stephen saw the Broch victors by 6 goals to 3 amid scenes of wide jubilation in the massive Broch support. 1999-2000 – After two successive early exits at the hands of Deveronvale. The Broch were looking to make it a nap hand of wins in the Shield. They started well defeating tonight’s opponents Buckie Thistle in the semi by 4-1 with their goals coming from a Michael Stephen hat-trick and a James Geddes strike. That set up a final clash with Keith which was held at Kynoch Park after the Maroons had won the toss of the coin. That didn’t matter one jot to the Broch and goals from Ian Murray and Kris Hunter saw them triumph by 2 goals to 1. 2011/12 - Fraserburgh had started their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory at home to Keith with Graham Johnston notching the only goal of the game. That was followed by a more emphatic win over Buckie Thistle by 3 goals to 1 thanks to goals from Scott Barbour, Allan Hale and Dean Cowie. In the semi final at Harlaw Park the Broch men would need extra time to see of the challenge of Inverurie Loc Works again by a 3-1 scoreline. Once again Scott Barbour was on the scoresheet in normal time but Locos levelled to force another 30 minutes. Barbour notched his second of the game before Graham Johnston made sure the Broch would progress to meet Banks O’ Dee at Balmoor Stadium in the showpiece. The Final was a bit of an anti climax with the Broch outclassing their Junior opponents 5-0. Dean Cowie opened the scoring on 29 minutes from the penalty spot after Graham Johnston had been impeded. Scott Barbour made it 2-0 shortly after latching onto Steven Main’s pass and just before the break the striker turned provider when his cross was nodded back by Bryan Hay for Willie West to volley home from 10 yards. One way traffic continued after the break with Bryan Hay making it 4-0 with a diving header from Steven Main’s free kick. Scott Barbour rounded things off sliding home from Johnston’s pass.

Burgh’s six of the best in the Aberdeenshire Shield. The Broch have a rich tradition in the Aberdeenshire Shield having won the competition six times since it was launched in 1990/91 and been runners-up on a further four occasions. Here is a look back at some of the highs the Broch have had in the Aberdeenshire Shield. 1991-92 – The Broch were paired again with Huntly this time in the 1st Round and scraped through 2-1 thanks to strikes from Symon Sim & Colin Robertson. That set up a semi final clash at home to Keith where Davie Robertson and Graeme Alexander saw the Broch into their second successive final. The opponents this time were Deveronvale at Christie Park, Huntly and after An Andy Lavelle goal had the Broch take the game into extra time where both sides scored again with Davie Robertson netting for the Broch. This meant penalty kicks and after Ronnie Smith, Jimmy Young, Davie Robertson had all scored that left Scott Murray with the chance to win it for the Black and Whites which he duly did much to the delight of the large travelling support. 1993-94 – Having gone out of the Shield at the first hurdle the previous season the Broch were in determined mood to win back the trophy. Huntly were dispatched in round 1 with Marino Keith scoring the only goal and local rivals Peterhead were done for 3-1 in the semi final thanks to strikes from Keith McCredie, Alan Thomson & Ronnie Smith. This set up a final showdown with Keith again at Christie Park, Huntly which saw a Michael Stephen double and further goals by Robert Gordon and a certain John Thomson give the Broch a 4-2 win and their second success in the competition.

1995-96 – Having gone out at the semi final stage the previous year the Broch were hoping that the omen of the even year would see them back as winners. They made a good start knocking out Huntly on penalties after a Kris Hunter double and Chris Beaton strike had leveled the scores after extra time at 3-3. John Thomson and Billy Gordon were amongst the successful penalty takers. The semi final against Cove Rangers would also go to penalties after Ian Murray’s goal was countered by the Toonsers. The Broch held their nerve again scoring all four of their penalties to Cove’s one to reach another Final. This would be played at the happy hunting ground of Christie Park against local rivals Peterhead and another fantastic performance was topped off with goals by Scott Clark and Kris Hunter to win the Shield for the third time.

Aberdeenshire Shield 2015/16 1st Round – Turriff United 4-0 Banks O’ Dee, Huntly 0-2 Cove Rangers, Deveronvale 4-0 Aberdeen University. 2nd Round – Keith 0-3 Cove Rangers, Buckie Thistle 0-0 Fraserburgh (aet – Fraserburgh won 6-5 on penalties), Deveronvale 0-2 Formartine United, Turriff United 0-3 Inverurie Loco Works Semi Finals – Inverurie Loco Works 3-3 Fraserburgh (aet – Fraserburgh won 4-3 on penalties), Formartine United 1-4 Cove Rangers

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Telephone: 01224 211174, Fax: 01224 211128, Email: info@gmcwilliam.co.uk

Wishing Fraserburgh Football Club all the best in the Morrison Motors (Turriff) Aberdeenshire Shield Final against Cove Rangers Football Club at Harlaw Park,

Inverurie on Saturday 7th May 2015.

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