Watt Star AFC

St Bernards 1 Star 0

2009-04-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

Chris
Jason, Chiefy, Mikey, Peas
Sean, Gindo, Neil, Stewart
Pistol, Paul

Craig
Stevie
Liam
Robbo

A goal with 4 minutes to go saw the Star lose another valuable 3 league points, despite playing well in spells with a couple of moves right out of the top drawer.

Fixtures - all league matches:
Wednesday - home to Fernieside
Saturday - away to Glenpark
Monday home to St Bernards
Wednesday home to Pilton.

Ferniside AFC 6 Star 1

2009-04-07T08:59:00.001-07:00

Chris
Robbo, Chiefy, Mike, Peas
Cleishy, Neil, Stevie, Craig
Paul, Sean

Stewart
Pistol
Dingo

Star started this match at Peffermill with an energy which had Fernie on the back foot for spells and it was only unfortunate circumstances which contrived to condemn them to their biggest league defeat for 5 years.
Building from the back, Star competed for everything but a goal following a free header after 6 minutes from the excellent Fernie number 8 was a huge set-back.
But they equalised after Craig flicked on a loose ball which Macca did not give up and he bravely challenged the 'keeper to nod the ball over the line.
This goal galvanised the Star as Cleishy, Stevie, Neil and Craig matched the 5 man Fernie midfield with Robbo starting attacks and Peas, Mikey and Chiefy working hard to contain the lively forwards. Sean looked up for it and Macca was his usual pesky self as no-one gave up a lost cause all night.
But a soft goal was conceded by the Star and this was closely followed by Robbo pulling up with a tweaked hammy. His place was taken by Pistol as the Star reverted to a 3-5-2. Another goal before half time was cheaply given away but it was not a dejected Star who trooped off after 45 as this group are particularly resilient.
Sean changed places with Craig as the Star faced another hard 45 minutes and, it has to be said they did not deserve to lose another 3 goals before the end if effort is linked to success, but it's not.
Some good movement by the Fernie side (Fernie-Side - get it?) was apparent throughout this match and as the game raged on gaps appeared in both defensive rearguards but the big homesters had the goal in the bag.
Stevie and Cleishy were tackling like demons in the midfield, Peter put an excellent ball through for Craig which came to nothing, and then took a knock on the temple which caused him to play no further part in the game.
Stewart replaced him up front but settled back to centre mid and although Star did have a few breakaways it was not their night as the game was lost by now and it was a weary Star who shuffled back to the dressing rooms as the twilight descended.
Star have played much worse and won, but Fernie are as good a side as we've met this season - including Bo'ness and Newcraighall. If the Star play like that on Friday they will win the Challenge cup for sure (Souness).
A chance for revenge will be there a week on Wednesday as Star take Fernieside on at Riccy.

Star 4 Heriot Vale 1

2009-04-07T08:40:00.000-07:00

Chris
Cleishy, Mike, Chiefy, Peas
Craig, Dingo, Neil, Stewart
Paul, Pistol

Stevie
Sean
Robbo
Liam
Star had an immediate chance to make amends following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Heriot Vale on Monday evening. And that's presactly what they did with a fine 4-1 win to ease themselves into the second round of the Cairns (league) cup.
Again it was thanks to another stunning second half performance as half time came with neither team able to break the deadlock although Star played some good football from the back with the left side looking dangerous as Peas broke anything up and supplied the midfield with a succession of good, early passes.
Stewart was the one to benefit most here as he scampered up and down the left wing and it was frustrating to see him make the run so often but only getting a pass every third time. He suffered from this as these long runs took their toll and he had to be withdrawn early in the second half but not before he could, possibly should have scored as he stretched to pounce on a loose ball, but he blasted the ball high.
0-0 at half time and no panic as the Star boys knew they would create more chances in the second 45.
And so it turned out as, following a Pistol flick on, Macca opened the scoring on the 56th minute with a snap shot from the edge of the box and followed this up with his 19th goal of the season from the penalty spot as Pistol chased down the 'keeper and was upended for his trouble.
Although Vale had equalised Star's first goal, this was a different Star who had capitulated so easily 5 days earlier with a good attitude, aggression and a degree of skill.
Chris was playing with quiet assurance with a couple of excellent saves, one with his boot and his careful handling helped to spread confidence thoughout the back division.
But Vale were pushing players forward and leaving gaps at the back, but it wasn't a breakaway which saw Neil hitting his first goal for the club as he skelped a beauty from outside the box which swerved viciously, hitting the inside of the net as it whistled over the goal line.
Although this was in the last quarter of the game, Star weren't finished yet as Macca rampaged down the right with only Liam for company and the number 8 found wee ginger with a square pass which he controlled, cut inside the defender and finished comfortably with his right foot for a fine goal.

Fixtures- including a Date at the Cup Final

2009-04-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

The league, in their wisdom have handed us the following fixtures:
Monday 30 March: Star 0 Heriot Vale 2 (League) Riccy
Saturday 4 April: Star v Heriot Vale (League Cup) Riccy
Monday 6 April: Fernie v Star (League) Peffermill
Wednesday 8 April: Star v Whitson (League) Riccy
Friday 10 April: Musselburgh v Star (Challenge Cup Final) Saughton. ko 6.45.

Supporters very welcome.

Caledonian's Highland Dance fails

2009-03-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Caledonian Highlanders 2
Watt Star 3

Semi final of Challenge Cup.

Final is at Saughton Enclosure, Friday 10th April. KO 6.45pm

Scottish Widows 1 Star 5

2009-03-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

Scottish Widows 1 Watt Star 5
Double Hedges
Challenge Cup
Quarter Final

Garry
Cleishy, Robbo, Chiefy, Peas
Jason, Stevie, Mikey, Stewart
Paul, Craig

Sean
Liam

Star showed no mercy to the hapless Widows team as they put them to the sword in a game spoiled by the relentless wind not experienced since Watty fell victim to a particularly vicious Madras.
Referee Millar got his money easily by patroling the centre circle with neither a hand gesture nor, indeed a leg gesture as all of his limbs seemed frozen to his torso leading to confusion whenever a decision had to be reached. But a valuable lesson was learned by the Star chaps. Claim for everything, collect the ball from a throw-in situation and you’ll probably get the decision.
And that’s the last time his name will be mentioned in connection with football apart from a plea to give it up.
Star started brightly against an opponent who had beaten them in an early season match by 3-2 – a result which, given the turn of events on the 14th March was quite incredible. Relegation fodder for sure, but an opponent who had to be defeated for Star to march on in the Challenge Cup.
Star started facilng the wind and the first incident of note came when a ball somehow found itself into the Star penalty box. It took a vicious bounce and Peas reacted like Peter O’Brien (Irish Gymnastic Champion, 1998-2003) to hack the ball to safety.
Stevie (Groucho) Morton started the rout as he sprinted in his Groucho Marx style onto an inch-perfect MacAnulty pass and fluked his finish off a defender for an unfortunate own-goal, although he will be claiming it.
Macca then got into the act with a brace – one with his right foot – a crisp finish which the ‘keeper could only admire as the number 8 (used to be a striker, you know) caught on the sweet spot. His other was equally as good as he hit the ball against the wind with his left, beyond the ‘keeper for a goal which had quality written all over it. Craig Murray’s contribution was instinctively a first-time pass through the Widows’ defence.
Half time came with Cheify - still chubby and his auld man filled with Bovril – a square meal for him. Or is that Oxo cubes
A carnival atmosphere prevailed as the 3-0 lead messed with the players’ minds and the coaches - unconcerned at this temporary lapse in discipline with the only issue in their minds being how soon could we get the two subs on.
But, it has to be said that a good few Star players were actually under-achieving and 4 or 5 were in contention to receive the hook and only positional issues and sub availablity ensured that two starters – no, not soup - never finished.
It was annoying – if understandable – that Star took their foot off the pedal in this second half.
Overall, Star made - and took most of the chances created and the quality of t he goals was of the highest standard with no team in our league capable of stopping any of them. Pity this clinical finishing deserted them last week as they chalked up a rare blank score sheet against Lochend
With the wind at their backs, Star were asked to keep the passes short but could not really cash in on the weather and it was only due to another two quality goals that the score was added to.
Craig made way for Sean and shortly after this Jason made way for Liam. Would have been nice to have them all on the pitch at the same time, but it’s no allowed.
And now – and not in any chronological order, Stevie scored another, probably offside, definitely handled and should have been ‘chalked off – or was that the first goal from this self-proclaimed goal machine - but he did, however establish himself officially as a scoring machine. Is that not a calculator?’
Next Sean scored this goal – and I urge you to read this and drool.
Robbo collected at sweeper and surged forward from deep space nine. Macca made yet another wide run, this time down the left and was found by an inch-perfect pass from the cheeky sweeper. He made hundreds of ground and reached the penalty area area. Support was in abundance as the Star squad moved forward, but Macca found Welsh international Sean Daffid with a pass, which was, in the circumstances, OK.
But – as Peas will testify, the ball in the pen box was liable to bobble and Sean Daffid’s touch was sublime as he tamed the leather sphere and cooly placed the damn thing past the ‘keeper for a brilliant finish to an excellent break-away goal.
The midfield then had a daft, although very entertaining five minutes as Cleishy and Chalky – aka Cleishy and Groucho flicked, backheeled and tricked their way to nowhere in particular, but chairman Peter MacDonald (first mensch in a match report for a while) enjoyed the entertainment. He said: ‘I enjoyed the entertainment.’ Robbo was booked around now for laughing. . .
And then.disaster. Stevie, on half way tried another back-heel which didn’t come orf. (Come on Stevie, there was no way that would ever have found a Star player). The Widows broke quickly, and Robbo had to commit a dodgy tackly in the box. Strangely that phrase seems familiar, but only in his private life. The cheekiest pus in the western world conceded a pen and Star’s clean sheet was in imininent danger – much to the chagrin of a certain Walter Cedric Berwick who was beside himself with rage. Actually he was beside me, but he’s so chubby, he could have been beside most of the residents of Liberton.
The excellent, although untroubled, Garry in goal guessed nearly right but the Widows ruined my day as the clean sheet was sullied.
Performances, not in any particular order;
Garry – no probs, but no threat. Thanks go to him for stepping in to the breach.
Cleishy – tackles 2 or 3 players at a time. Possibly suffering from familiarity in the race for MoM, like Aitchy in that we now expect these performances.
Chiefy- settled into centre-half as though he had been doing that for a while. Robbo – superb defensively, but a frustrated midfielder, I suspect. Peas – dealt with some awkward stuff, played the game with discipline and enthusiasn.
Jason brings stre;ngth and shape to the team – doing the unglamorous stuff willingly. Stevie – has been a revelation since forcing himself ino the team. Still particularly white, though. Mikey – has played with more impact, but still showed his undoubted class. Stewart – flitted in and out of the game and spent an inordinate time on his bum.
Craig – undoubted effort, but he’s a better player than he showed in this match. Paul – back to his goal-scoring best, and recently adding team play to his repertoire.

Sean came on and showed his undoubted skill. While Liam’s presence could only have depressed the opposition as his energy levels are off the scale.
Chris showed commitment (a word strangely missing from some – but not by any means, all) of the Star squad by volunteering to swell the sidelines despite injury and we thank him for this. As we also thank Garry for stepping in.
All in all – a decent performance with the plaudits going to the guys at the sharp end (strikers), the dull end (defenders) and the engine room (Titanic had one of those eh?)
Star have played better and lost, but the quality of the goals in this ‘gripping’ cup tie was superb and as long as we create something for the attacking players to finish, success is not going to be far away.
Sorry, guys, I have to qualify the above with the observsion that the opposition were not particularly good, which is why we committed both of our subs – an unusual tactic, given that we would prefer to keep one in reserve in case of injury.
Obviously.

Watt Star Presentation Disco and Race Night

2009-03-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

The Presentation/Race Night has again been organised and will be held at the Slateford Bowling Club.
Get in touch with Davy or Watty for a couple o' tickets and all donations for prizes will, as always, be gratefully received.

Star 0 Lochend 2

2009-03-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Star 0 Lochend 2
League match
Chris
Cleishy, Mikey, Robbo, Chiefy
Craig, Stevie, Graham, Jason
Peter, Paul.
Garry
rasho
Stewart
Sean
Peas
Star faced league leaders Lochend for the second time this season but left Riccarton with nothing as their proud 2-year unbeaten home league record was ruined.
It could have been so different though as Star started brightly and took the game to their opponents with chances created in the first 20 minutes - but none was taken and it was this first quarter of the game which could have seen them with daylight between them and Lochend.
Most of the Star's dangerous attacks came down the left as the fierce wind nullified any chance of a quality cross from the wide right area and a couple of openings were created, but lack of composure and some decent goalkeeping ensured the Lochend goal stayed intact.
Midfield was being bossed by Star until the Lochend team gradually got on top, mostly due to weight of numbers as they used five in the middle, although, it has to be said the Star had a few players who were not at their best.
The usually trustworthy confident first touch was not always apparent and the Lochend players did not need a second invitation to snap into the tackles.
Star looked comfortable at the back, despite a couple of swift forwards to face and they sprang the offside trap with regularity, stopping Lochend getting through to threaten the Star goal.
Chris had his best game for the Star so far with a few good saves, which seemed to give him more confidence as his handling and punching was excellent.
With the midfield being over-run, Star changed formation as Mikey came out of the back four to bolster the engine-room and this did make a difference.
Then, as Star gave the ball away cheaply again, and with too many midfielders ahead of the ball, Lochend pushed it through and the once reliable offside trap collapsed as the Star rearguard, possibly over-confident of their position due to their earlier successes, stood still, allowing the Lochend striker to stroke the ball past Chris for the opener. Play to the whistle comes to mind here and, although this error was punished it was one of very few over the 90 minutes by the Star defenders.
Half time came and the frustration felt by the Star players, if not ideal, was understandable but there was no panic from the coaches. Improve the first touch, try to put a foot on the ball and don't give it away so cheaply and so often, as this failing meant the ball was won, them promptly given back again to an opponent who was well organised, fit and well up for the fray.
Second half wins are the Star speciality, but it was not to be on this occasion, as luck deserted the Riccarton lads with the Lochend goal leading a charmed life as their 'keeper had a couple of good saves and a couple of lucky ones.
Mikey had a daft moment as he attempted a goal-line clearance, lost his footing and shielded the ball with his prostrate body - as the huge Lochend No 6 charged in. He was lucky to get away with his head still attached as the ref gave Lochend a free kick on six yards.
But this was brilliantly defended as Star forced the ball away and a combination of kamikaze defending and determination was the pattern for the next 16 minutes.
And then, a brilliant goal for Lochend as they counter-attacked at speed. Their midfielder collected the ball mid-way inside his own half and took off. Although he had left a couple of Star players in his wake he still had a lot to do and it looked likely that he would run out of ideas as he neared the penalty area, but he hit the shot early and it fairly whistled past Chris, who did get a hand to it - off the underside of the bar and a following up striker made sure it went over the line, although, apparently it had crossed the line at first time of asking.
Star were well disappointed at this loss as, at 1-0 they were still in the game and looking to share the points but they were out of luck again as Craig hit the bar with an excellent free-kick and another few chances were made as balls were fired in from the right, but, again, no takers were evident. And round about this time the Lochend 'keeper saved one as it skiffed off his heid!
Sean and Rasho made a bit of an impact replacing Pistol and Jason with Sean almost scoring and Rasho reaching the bye-line, but Lochend defended their lead stuffily, if not always legally to play out time, gaining another three points in their bid to win this division.
Possibly a tad biased, but I think Star possibly deserved a draw, given the chances made, but balanced off with the MoM being the 'keeper, maybe a bit optimistic.
On the positive side, though, Watt Star did match Lochend in every area, the players know they can play a lot better and it's up to the squad to lift themselves up for the next game.
Apologies if your name isn't mentioned this week, but you may notice there are very few get a mench. Nothing sinister - just the way it comes out of my flying fingers. . .
Saturday is a Challenge Cup quarter final against Scottish Widows at Double Hedges.
Assemble there for 12.45 please. The weather is still potentially an issue, so bring training gear incase the game's called off at short notice.

Balbardie Vale 1 Watt Star 2

2009-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Balbardie Vale AFC 1 Star 2
Challenge Cup, 2nd Round
Chewy
Cleishy, Robbo, Stella, Chiefy
Pistol, Dingo, Chalky, Cheeeeseeee
Macca, Craigy-Boy (rubbish nick-name, but it's what his ma calls him)
Gam
Niall (nae nickname as yet, but he's only young - gie him time. I would. In Barlinnie)

West Lothian is never an easy place to go in amateur football (as much of the sat-nav-less Star squad emphasised by being late) and the Balbardie Vale side confirmed this fact as they matched Watt Star, and it took a last minute wonder goal from skipper-for-the-day (dinnae get cocky) Mikey Dixon to earn the victory. (He's called skipper 'cos he's got a trawler apparently. And a shovel -definitelyl!!)
Star came out of the traps at speed and the first 26 minutes of this game produced a good number of chances (four) - well that's a good number eh?), only one of which was converted - (two points for that?) ironically on the 26th minute.
Pistol was fouled on the right hand side of the narrow pitch, Robbo powered in a vicious free-kick which wee Chalky (the smallest PLAYER on the pitch and one of the smallest in Star’s history - and, unbelievably getting smaller and named after Rick Stein's dug) hardly had to rise for as he let the ball bounce off his napper, leaving the excellent Vale ‘keeper Steve Clark (ex-Chelsea) stranded for his second fluke in three starts. (That's Chalky, not Clarky).
He also had another “chalked” off for offside when it clearly wasn’t - as did Mikey later on.
Chiefy (is he getting rounder?) and Cleishy (is he getting uglier?) - along with Mikey (he of the thin hair - but who wants fat hair) and Robbo (second cheekiest pus in Watt Star's history) were rarely troubled as the midfield four stuck to the game plan and dominated this part of the proceedings. Cleishy did have a couple of wild slashes at the ball (I think) which landed at Star players' feet, but he tells me these were all meant. Aye, rightl.
Pistol started wide-right in the coaches' attempt to get one of Star’s greatest impact players ever - on the ball more often, but his defensive instincts were missing and Craigy-boy (sounds like a hoarse eh?) was asked to swap places with him early doors (what the hell does early doors mean? - possibly a sixties recording by the Vietnam war heroes' heroes) - a move which resulted in an instant improvement as the Star retained their shape well (just like Watty) and Pistol was released to rampage up front. Dingo kept it simple (a bit like himsel') - and very, very effective as he sprayed the ball left and left and wee Chalky - the self-crowned “heading machine” bossed the centre-mid as though he had played there once before.
Jason, so 'solid crew' (apart from his lack of a towel - gie's it back less skiddos eh?) on the left contributed massively to the Star’s shape as another disciplined performance was produced, although a fitter Jaseeee (could that evolve to JC?) may well have scored when a ball flew from right to left in the penalty area - begging to be met by the Star's left-sided midfielder but legs and lungs meant he didn’t get there. Or was that fags?
Macca was having a duel with all of the opposition back division (pistols at dawn) and his power and running meant they got no peace, although I suspect the number five had consumed some of these pieces and a couple of pies pre-match. Someone observed that Macca MUST be a fit guy to haul that huge carcase around for so long. I think it was Watty. Talk aboot pot and kettle. Although it has to be said that Macca' s pants WERE groaning at the waist pre-shower. Pistols were groaning IN the shower as the Star runner-up striker went to the sprays with some (but not all) of his clothes still on. . . .twit.
Chances went abegging in this first half with Pistol, Dingo and Chalkie victims of miscalculations and in the 26th minute, Macca hit a ferocious shot at an angle which was awfully well saved (sorry, can't spel brilliantly) by Clark in the Vale goal but at least the chances were being made.
Then, another needless free-kick was given away on the Star's right and although they matched up neatly enough defensively, none (aye, none") of the 4 Vale runners was picked up as the ball was fired into the mix. Chris, looking a tad indecisive, did get his body behind the ball, but couldn’t hold it and it could have been any one of 3 or 4 Vale players who had the opportuinty to poke the ball home for the equaliser but Kevin Brady it was on the scoresheet for the homesters.
Half time came with no signs of panic in the Star ranks as they were well on top, but the sticky pitch was going to have a bearing on the outcome - only two subs available - but the Star boys showed their superior fitness, allied with an attitude which allows none of this squad to give up.
In this second half, Chris atoned for his earlier indecision with some excellent handling, plucking and punching as the music ebbed and flowed as Vale had their best spell and it was only the condition of the pitch (understandably for late February) which stopped him from throwing out to the ever-willing Chiefy and Cleishy. Vale may well have scored in this period as one ball whistled across the six yard line, with no takers. And as Vale continued their good start to the second half they pinned Watt Star back into their own half, Sinnet went close with a header across the goal and minutes later, he chested a Coulter ball into Mark Lawlor's path, but the final shot dragged wide by the Vale front man.
It was blood and snotters now as the Star boys had to dig deep and none of them dug deeper than 'digger MacScrumpshie' who was looking for worms at the side of the pitch.
Although Vale had the lion's share of the possession, it was Star who should - and would have scored as Mikey had the ball in the net, but the play was pulled back for a foul by JC on a Vale defender.
Craigy-boy then was freed by a superb pass from midfield, but some decent defending forced him wider than he would have liked and although his shot was formidable, it flew over the bar.
Vale had, by now pulled their No. 10 back to play in 'the hole' and Star's formation had to change to combat this. Co-incidentally as Star were about to change to a midfield 5, Dingo fell awkwardly (very awkwardly), dislocating his shoulder in the process and had to be replaced. The Balbardie manager/physio was superb and expertly slotted Dingo's front paw back into the hole, thus avoiding unnecessary agony for this young pup and the Star's grateful thanks go to Peter for this gesturel.
Since Vale only had one playing up-front, Mikey was deployed into midfield to match them numerically and the game looked like stale-mate. Star's fitness was likely to be nullified by Vale's superior sub's bench, but then Mikey Dixon took a hand.
Macca out-muscled the Vale defence, sprinted down the right wing and fired a ball into the danger area. It wasn't cleared properly, bounced around for a couple of hours until Gam McCraw took control, pushing the ball back into danger and MD executed a sublime overhead kick which hit the front of the net (not the back - the back's behind the 'keeper) for the winner. Unlike him to draw attention to himself eh?
Star now face Scottish Widows in the last 8.
Thanks again to the Balbardie Club for their compassion during the match and hospitality at the Masons Arms afterwards.
Game on Saturday is home to Lochend in the league. Assemble Riccy, 12.45pm.

Edinburgh South Vics 4 Star 3

2009-01-20T06:35:00.000-08:00

Star lost this Logan Cup 3rd round tie and can blame a poor first half in which they failed to cash in on the conditions, going in 2-0 down at half time - which, incidentally was cut short by 8 minutes by the ref for some reason which he was unable to explain.
A mini revival ensured the Star won the second half again, but probably deserved to lose on balance as too many players didn't excell.
Now it's back to league business this Saturday with a home match against Lochend who beat Star 5-4 in the first game of the season, with Star losing a 3 goal lead in the process.
Since the club won 5 games in a row, culminating at Gourock, the form book shows: LWLWL, and it's now we have to show the same superb form and go on the same kind of run if we want to climb the league and be involved in the final stages of the Challenge Cup and the League Cup (if it's staged).

Saturday ko 2pm.
Players assemble Riccarton for 12.45.

Goal Scorers 2008-09

2009-01-12T07:33:00.000-08:00

Pistol 13
Macca 13
Craig 5
Sean 3
Gindo 2
Jason 2
Mikey 1
Graham 1
Stewart 1
Norrie 1
Davy 1

Star 4 Loanhead 1

2009-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Star up to the Challenge

Challenge Cup, 1st round

Star saw off Loanhead without much fuss as they mastered the conditions better - taking a 3 goal lead into half time which was added to in the second half, although Loanhead did score during their most dangerous period after half time.
Training as usual Wednesday 14th, Riccarton.
Watch this space as Chairman Peter has intimated the need for a committee meeting.

Next match:
Logan Cup, third round.
Saturday Jan 17: Away to Edinburgh South Vics. Dalkeith HS Campus.
KO 1.30pm.
Players meet at Commonwealth Pool before 12 noon.

Star 3 Tynecastle Star 1

2008-11-26T04:59:00.000-08:00

Star 3 Tynie 1
League match

Chris
Cleishy, Aitchy, Robbo, Chiefy.
Craig, Dingo, Mikey, Graham
Peter, Paul.

Sean
Stewart
Liam
Garry
Rasho

It was back to winning ways for the Star boys on Saturday as they produced a fine performance to see off Tynecastle in the first league match since the Whitson game on September 20.
A couple of changes from the debacle of the week before, but no panic measures as the Star faced what was a stern test against a side established in the top third of the table for the last few years.
And another excellent team display was rewarded as goals from Craig, Graham (direct from a corner) and an og settled this affair with Cleishy putting into his own net when (according to Cheeeeefy) a simple clearance was on. . . . .
Star started quickly with a good warm-up and were boosted by the sight of ex-Star player, Rafa Benitez, visiting from Madreeed - although this boost was cancelled out by the shambolic sight of Dougie (ex-striker) dressed in his Russian Cossack granny’s dressing gown. Apparently the fashion police are hunting him and the sooner he’s locked up, the better.
Flowing football was at a premium as the ball was skelped from back to front with monotonous regularity, but when either side got it down, glimpses of quick, accurate passing moves were produced by both sides, although the Star looked the more composed outfit at this stage.
Cheeeefy at left back started his first match for the Star and played with composure and intelligence, winning challenges regularly and linking up well with Graham on the left and Aitchy inside him (when I say inside him, I don’t mean. . . well you know what I mean), keeping possession and moving the ball around the back four as the Tynie team chased around.
The breakthrough came on 26 minutes from a throw in the ball was worked back to Chiefy and his inch-perfect delivery found Craig Murray’s bonce and he flicked it over the luminous ‘keeper for his third goal of the season. This long throw should have been rewarded more often as Macca won the header regularly and it was only bad timing of the run for the second ball that marred this tactic. Something to work on, I think. So, basically, this “well-rehearsed” move didn’t actually work after all.
Progress was made down the Star’s left where Macca in particular was fed regularly and a couple of his crosses
deserved to have a better result. Pistol almost managed to poke one in but was a fraction too late. Probably his choice of boots. At least he doesn’t leave them in the changing room though!
Chris in goal looked much more confident than last week with clear shouts and clean handling with a couple of good saves (one for the camera) thrown in (not actually thrown in), but since his kicking was erratic, Aitchy took on the bye-kicks - a useful weapon to get us deep into the opposition territory.
Cleishy and Robbo were tigerish in the tackle with the former having a good tussle with ex-Star man, Dario, but it has to be said that Cleishy won this particular battle, albeit with a little help from the superb Robbo. Aitchy was his usual dependable self winning the ball cleanly, always available, and spreading the play both left and right (although not at the same time). He ought to win more MoM but is a victim of his own consistency and it’s expected that he’ll put in a polished performance every week.
The midfield battle was just that, but Star have shown they can win the physical challenge in this division as well as producing the quality of football required to entertain the huge crowd which had gathered at sunny Riccarton on a day which would freeze a man’s balls off even with two pairs of pants on. Just ask Watty about his beige pair (ex-large).
Craig and Gam kept posession well on half-way with Mikey in particular well up for a scrap as Dingo showed an urgency which had been lacking in the last match with his first touch usually sublime, although giving the ball away more often than most as he tried too many risky passes.
Pistol did nearly all of Macca’s running for him as Macca did nearly all of Pistol’s and this arrangement seems to work quite well as they gave the opposing back division no peace at all. And it’s maybe unfair to point out that this game was almost unique in that it was the only time this season that either of these two had not got on the score sheet (apart from the Whitson defeat where Star could only manage a unique blank.
Half time was uneventful with no injuries reported or changes required. But it was pointed out that the easy part had been done and we would have to dig deep to kill the game off.
And that’s precisely what the Star did as after 16 minutes of the restart, Graham bent a right-wing corner in and it flew over the ‘keeper’s flailing arms for the second goal as the Gam man got off the mark for his first goal for the mighty Star.
Then Macca was put through with a superb pass from Dingo, but with only the ‘keeper to beat he blasted the ball up to the rugby pitch in the mistaken belief that the Scotland Ladies team were there.
The midfield battle continued at a furious pace and at 2-0 down, Tynie moved a player to flood that area and they had their best spell around then, and Star were on the back foot for spells without looking to concede and it was time for a change.
The Tynie No 8 was given too much room at this stage and fresh legs were brought on in the shape of Rasho (actually it really WAS Rasho) as Craig went to centre mid with Rasho instructed to get down the flanks but keep his defensive head on first and foremost. Dingo was replaced as he appeared to be running on empty and his excellent shift was over.
An unfortunate og (aren’t they all?) finished the game as the Tynie defence was pressured so intensely that a mix-up ensued and the ball floated over the hapless ‘keeper. If only he had been as bright as his ridiculous pink outfit. And this was just reward for the unselfish running of Pistol!
Macca was next to be withdrawn as he just couldn’t keep up with Pistol’s pace and begged for a rest. This he was granted as Sean stepped in and Pistol was asked to play somewhat deeper, as, with no need to chase the game Star just had to play out time.
Indeed, Sean might (should) have scored as his first touch let him down 12 yards out and the chance was gone.
At this stage, Mikey and Tynie’s No. 6 swapped Christmas cards and Mikey’s red mist came back as he wiped the friendly chap out on the home touchline. This was the signal for Mr Latto to blow for full-time and the ensuing fracas was handbags although the big No 6 threw his toys out of his pram. (resisting other jibes at the moment).
It was a daft thing to do, exacting revenge on full-time as a yellow, or even a red could have been shown and the repercusions in the shape of points/suspension would not have helped the Star cause.
A fine win and Star showed definited symptons of “bouncebackability” as the 3 points hoisted them up to 6th in the table.
MoM: Robbo
R/u: Cleishy
Dissapointing aspect of this match was the no-show of 3 Star players who are injured at the moment.

Next match (weather permitting) home v Tartan in the League.

All players bring training gear as if the game’s orf something else will be arranged.

Bo'ness 8 Star 2

2008-11-21T06:43:00.000-08:00

East of Cupland Scot. Round 2

Down 7-0 at half-time, Star rallied in the second period, after a couple of changes were made, both to personnel and attitudes.
Pistol scored Star's first and Macca converted a twice-taken penalty for two well-deserved strikes. While these two got pass-marks, too many of their colleagues did not and the result, while not telling the whole tale was never in doubt.
Next game is a league match against table-toppers Tynecastle Star.
Riccarton, ko 2pm.

Star progress in the National Trophy

2008-11-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

Scottish Cup
Round 3
Gourock Thistle 1 Watt Star 2
Another fine win for the Star as goals by Macca and Jay Nolan settled this cup tie but this victory was based on exceptional defending which saw the young Gourock side limited to very few goal-scoring chances.
The reward for Star is a home tie against Tullibody Ams from Stirling.
December 6th has been pencilled in for this clash and support at Riccarton would be appreciated.
2pm ko.

Star 5 Silverknowes 0

2008-11-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

Although Star led 1-0 at half time, a superb second half performance ensured the Star march into the Second round of the East of Cupland Scot where we play Bo'ness at their patch on November 15
Travel arrangements TBA.

Scottish Cup Tie

2008-10-30T05:31:00.000-07:00

Match on Saturday Nov 1 is the First Round East of Scotland Cup at Riccarton v Silverknowes. KO 2pm.
Saturday Nov 8 sees the Star playing in Glasgow in the Scottish Cup, 3rd Round against either Glencastle Sparta or Gourock whose replay is on Nov 1.
Star will be probably be taking a coach through and definite numbers are required before this is booked. All support would be welcomed for this trip to Weegieland.

Next Match

2008-10-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Next game is the second round of the Logan Cup (bye in first round) on Saturday Oct 18. Home to Pilton Albion Wanderers at Riccarton. 2pm ko. Assemble Riccarton concourse at 12.30. Park Bar welcomes us back for eats.

2008-10-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Goal Scorers 2008-09

2008-10-08T03:01:00.000-07:00

Peter Nicols 13
Paul MacAnulty 12
Sean Rayment 2
Mark McGuinness 2
Craig Murray 4
Norrie Dunnett 1
Mikey Dixon 1
Jason Nolan 2
Graham 1
Stewart 1
Davy1

Star 2 North Berwick 0

2008-10-07T05:22:00.000-07:00

Wacky Races 2nd Round
Watt Star 2 North Berwick 0

1 Hughey Hewitt as Dick Dastardly in the Mean Machine
5 Cleishy as a Slag Brother in the Bouldermobile
11 Gam as The Gruesome Onesome in the Creepy Coupe
4 Aitchy as Red Max in the Crimson Haybailer
3 Robbo as The Ant Hill Mob in the Bulletproof Bomb
10 Craig as Lazy Luke in the Arkansas Chuggabug
7 Stevie as Professor Pat Pending in the Convert-a-Car
6 Mikey as Sergeant Blast in the Army Surplus Special
2 Jason as Rufus Ruffcut in the Buzz Wagon
8 Macca as Penelope Pitstop in the Compact Pussycat
9 Pistol as Peter Perfect in the Turbo Terrific

Replacement cars: Niall as Private Meekly
Gindo as Muttley
Stewart as Sawtooth
Alisdair as the Hooded Claw.

An excellent race with the most pleasing aspect of it being no fuel
spilled (clean sheet) - something Star have been striving for what seems a very long time.. . .
Following the excellent performance of last week, only one - enforced
- change was made, as Doc was unavailable since he had been busy
donating a tip to the willy surgeon, so one of the Slag Brothers
stepped in to the defence. Star had been warned before the match that
they had to accelerate away from the grid quickly and avoid being
shunted off their usual passing game and this is exactly what they did
with an early breakaway by Penelope Pitstop who raced clear but hit
wide with her left tyre.
And shortly afterwards she went broadside into an opposition vehicle
with some superficial damage sustained to her chassis, but not enough
to leave the race.
Dick Dastardly sleazily kept things calm with some excellent
maintenance/distribution although he didn't get his hands really
dirty, nevertheless he found time to make a save for the cameras,
while the Ant Hill Mob kept their patch crook-free. Slag brother
fitted in just like a Kwik Fit Fitter and Red Max showed why his
bodywork is admired from afar (well, it can be seen from Fife!) as the
Gruesome Onesome completed the defensive quattro.
The mid-field battle had Lazy Luke - resplendent with his go-faster
stripe on his sunroof and Sergeant Blast driving his vintage, very
fitting for this veteran - involved in minor crashes while Professor
Pat Pending nipped around the periphery as Rufus Ruffcut sneaked into
the front row of the grid from time to time. Fortunately his engine
did not let him down as he covered a fair amount of the track.
Peter Perfect, it has to be said was not firing on all cylinders with
a couple of wrong turns being made during this crucial race, but, as
usual, he put more miles on the clock than most. Penelope Pitstop
still seems to have a slow puncture, but performed in this race as
though it was a demolition derby!
Biggest worry was the number of chances which were not being taken and
by half time the total was up to 6 - all decent openings, mostly
created by good, quick football and the warning triangles were out for
a sucker-punch blow.
And at the refuelling pit stop, the drivers were all warned that they
had to take at least a couple of these chances - we had created 6 and
we would create at least another 6, but apart from that no oil changes
were needed, although the addition of Sat Nav to find the route to
goal may well have helped.
The second lap was similar to the first as again, opportunities went
begging with Peter less than Perfect as he volleyed one over the bar
when it looked easier to score.
But he wasn't the only guilty party in this aspect of the race with a
few of the other drivers mis-firing!
As the game went into the final laps, with still no chequered flag
looking iminent, the Star struck as Penelope Pitstop had a couple of
bites at her cherry before poking it away. And she celebrated by
skidding to a halt leaving skiddy marks on the grass where there
shouldn't ought to be skiddy marks.
15 miles to go...
The Gruesome Onesome found himself chasing back to collect the ball
as it slowly crept towards the line and he calmly walked away with it
to start another attack and his almost impeccable performance was
earning him the top spot on the driver's podium, with Red Max almost
up his exhaust pipe.
One goal is never enough, especially for the chief mechanic's nerves
and the mid-field battle was becoming just that with cars colliding
regularly, but the Star drivers came out on top in the physical duels
as well as in the finesse department.
Professor Pat Pending came in to the pits to refuel and Sawtooth
joined the race and buzzed around like a bee in a biscuit tin.
More chances came and went and the Ant Hill Mob tried to show the way
with a brilliant effort which skidded past the lampost.
The Slag Brother's engine passed this early test as this was his first
proper drive for a good number of weeks and he may well be better when
his engine is more finely tuned, but he can be pleased that his tyres
had enough tread to cope.
And then, disaster for the North Berwick team as their wheels came
off. Their back-seat driver attempted to bypass Peter Perfect, but
didn't allow for his ridiculously- telescopic wheels and the bonnet of
the team picked his spot, then when that had dried up (Clearasil) he
parked the fitba' in to calm the jangly nerves of the chief mechanic
and his ass-man.
7 minutes left as the Star wound down the clock, although the
communication did not seem to work in all of the cars since no vehicle
suffered a flat tyre or even needed a quick polish, although Penelope
did hold things up on the edge of the track while she touched up her
nails.
Lazy Luke then had a slight collision with an opponent, his rev
counter went into the red zone and he took revenge as his enormous
front bumper took out the Berwick player (no, not for dinner) and the
Marshal had to show him the red flag for trying to punch his
opponent's lights oot!
All-in-all a very good win in this Second round of Wacky Races and the
third round beckons with the whole of the nation now in the draw. Star
are now into the last 256 of this trophy and the bus is already booked
for Hampden. I've phoned the SFA and instructed them to order the
Yellow and Blue ribbons. . . .

Newcraighall 2 Star 3

2008-10-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

Scottish Cup, 1st Round

Newcraighall Brass Band 2 Watt Star Symphony Orchestra 3

The musicians lined up like so:

At the very back of the hall, on percussion:
Hughey Hewitt

Brass section:
Aitchy (tuba), Doc (trombone) Robbo (Moothy - exceptionally)

Woodwind:
Jason (clarinet), Stevie (picollo), Mikey (Jew's harp), Craig (flute), Graham (pan pipes)

Strings:
Pistol (first violin), Paul (double bass/single fish)

In the wings:
Niall (triangle), Sean (baby grand piano), Garry (feathers), Colin (guitar)

Roadies: Fulton and Berwick Ltd (very)
"No job too small, no pants too big"

Although the pitch was fine, it was far from "perfect" and this concert started with a bang as the conductor, resplendent in a red tunic blew his tin whistle and immediately the Newcraighall band attacked the music score with gusto (Opus No. 7) and with the WSSO on the back foot, it was clear they had not had enough time to tune up.
NBB's new uniforms were given their first "airing" but had to contend not onlywith the brightness of the Brasilian colours from Riccarton, but also the samba beat of their opponents.
Allegro (quickly) was the tempo from the NBB, whereas the visiting musicians could only play at somewhere approaching lento (slowly) - and although they were playing the correct notes, they were not necessarily in the right order.
And 16 minutes into the performance, a solo note from NBB (opus No 3) found it's way into the music book and this fellow was delighted with his "score" as his sharpness contrasted with the flatness of the visitors. Fortunately the WSSO didn't "fret" - just re-tuned and started again.
The Woodwind section was being made to blow its instruments hard under constant changes of pace from the "stars from the sticks" and although they held firm, a change of emphasis was needed to avoid the concert being loaded with too much brass..
So, with the overture barely completed, the WSSO roadies made a couple of changes and moved a pan-piper into the brass section with the clarinet and flute changing music stands. Moothy switched sides, and it's fairly obvious that he's not only right footed, but right moothied as well.
A different tune was now being played as the double bass/single fish celebrated his new strings by blasting a perfectly pitched note into the Newcraighall cleff, following some intricate footering (opposite of fingering - keep it clean eh?) from the first violin who trilled his appreciation like a big girl.
The celebrations were reminiscent of the 1998 last night of the Proms as one roadie and one toadie were swamped by delicious - sorry delirious - participants.
The visitors (next stop Vienna) now dominated the concert, although their new percussionist, Hughey had to have quick hands to thwart a couple of hard hitting, well placed notes along the way and he showed just why his transfer from Red Albert Hall was rushed through. . .
Doc was in control of the high notes, as the Big Aitch caressed the lower ones, although he had to be alert to avoid their little crochets from breaking through in an attempt to spoil the underdogs' rhythm.
The two smallest musicians - moothy and pan pipes - also defended their quavers (cheesy) with virtuoso performances and produced a creation to match Rossini's William Tell Overture, which, while not of precisely the same quality now seems somehow, less well crafted.
Clarinet and flute were playing from the same sheet during this spell while the picollo and Jew's harp both resounded in total harmony to add to the depth of penetration.
First violin and double bass/single fish ignored the "score" as they tried to change it at every opporchancity then a great spot (not acne) by big Aitchy found the first violin right on the money and he played Ace Ventura impeccably, skillfully using his gelled locks to place the note over the opposition's drummer for the second movement. A superb piece of orchestration with the World Cup theme being blasted out by Aitchy's (on tuba) mighty right boot for a grand piano finish.
Strangely the piccollo and Jew's harp were pulling the strings at this point in proceedings, which means I have totally mixed up my metaphors and a puppeteer has no place here. Apologies.
Another fine passage of play found the Double Bass/single fish in space down the right corridor, but he elected to go "solo" instead of perhaps forming a duet with the first violin and the moment was gone. A fine solo note from the veteran Jew's harp had the opposing percusionist beating the note away as it looked destined to make itself a new home in the opposing tune's hoose.
The intermission came with the WSSO reluctant to rest as they had by now, satisfied the travelling groupies that this gig was going to be one of their best and had got right into the rhythm. The pre-concert-ordered beverages were not wholly appreciated by the musicians and a roadie had to down 5 extra ones, although this stood him in good stead as the night wore on - apparently (he has no recollection of anything after 7pm).
Opus No 2 was similar to the first with the WSSO building up to a crescendo and although the NBB rehearse twice a week, they were shown to be lacking a little in the wind department by opponents who seemed to have bellows for lungs.
Some legato (smooth) passages (great for constipation) now ensued from the visitors, and only tired lungs were going to spoil the tone and the picollo found his wind was out of tune with his legs as he made way for the baby grand, who was instructed to depart from his usual Morris Dance routine for a more energetic performance.
And the visiting maestros were not finished yet, as the double bass/single fish was invited to up his tempo as he broke away on his own, but as he reached the limit of his range (high P), the accuracy was gone, as were his legs - nearly.
First violin still had a couple of bars in his repertoire and he fairly speeded up before the opposing drummer stole his bow from under him right in centre stage and the conductor aimed his baton at the spot. It's a matter of conjecture as to whether or not the drummer should have had his sticks confiscated but the conductor saw fit to let him see out the rest of the concert from the stage rather than the gallery.
Double bass/single fish gained his just reward for a performance full of energy and belligerence as he dispatched the pen with a plum (five a day - that's the healthy way).
His celebration looked like one of relief as well as delight and he's now only 5 beats away from First Violin in the contest for young musician of the year - but he's running out of concerts (only 30ish left).
The WSSO now only had to consolidate their position in the performance, but decided to let the opposition back in the stage door when a lack of concentration led to a wrong note being played in the brass section and the NBB first violin played a last, plaintive note into the WSSO's ears.
Another lost cause was chased by the Double bass/single fish and he performed a minor miracle to set up a tune, which should have been completed in the corner of the concert hall, but it broke down, as did he when his strings finally snapped.
He was replaced by the triangle, but there was little or no more melody to come and the concert ended in harmony for the visitors, but dischord for the hosts.
A decent result and performance given that the NBB had reached the last 16 of the national trophy only last season.
Hopefully we will see and hear the performers do an encore this Saturday when North Berwick Ragtime Band try to progress in the same trophy at the expense of the Watt Star Symphony Orchestra.
D

Match Report: Pilton Albion Wanderers 2 - 2 Watt Star (Watt Star win 3-2 in extra time) - Watt Star are league Champions

2008-05-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

Divisional Play-Off - Paties Road - May 19th, 2008
Andrew
Bish, Scott M, Robbo, Scott H Craig M, Mikey, Stewart
Sean
Peter, Paul

Subs:
Grant Ross
Dougie
Mark
Grant Wood
Craig Heriot

For raw excitement, drama and controversial decisions, don't watch Coronation Street - come and watch the Mighty Star - as this game unfolded to reveal another epic episode of the Watt Star odyssey. Indeed, J.K. Rowling couldn't have penned such a tome because her work tends to be more believable than this play-off encounter's story, although the Tolkien influence was also represented by Watty as he stood up for all Hobbits. The home dressing room was nabbed early by Star and Edinburgh United's name was temporarily obliterated from the door by the Watt Star AFC banner.

Star's line-up was changed again as they began with a 3-man midfield with Sean playing in the hole. Unusually for Pilton, they outnumbered their opposition in that area and Star reverted to 4-4-2 after 16 minutes and a distinct improvement was obvious.

But, yet again, Star handed the initiative to their young opponents by conceding the first goal and the groans were audible around this magnificent stadium as the healthy crowd (don't mean this in reference to their well-being- someone them looked a little peaky, just referring to the numbers of those present) bathed in the Scottish evening sunshine in temperatures approaching zero. Andrew's involvement in this first half didn't amount to much as Star took the game to Pilton (well not actually TO Pilton 'cos Paties Road was the venue, just that they had a bit more territorial advantage at this point).

A rare Pilton breakaway down the right looked dangerous as the striker found his partner (playing partner, not a bidy-in) with a square pass 16 yards out and he side-footed home. But the stand-side linesman's flag had gone up as the move developed. Offside. Ref had a word with his obviously untrustworthy assistant, over-ruled him and unbelievably, allowed the goal to stand. As in previous encounters, Star now had a mountain to climb, but the team had enough Sherpa Tensing's to ascend this mole-hill and peak(!) through the clouds when they reached the summit.

Bish and Scott Hendry were comfy in this period with Scott Millar playing his last game as though it was his last game. Robbo was superb as he swept up in his new role as sheepdog. He's been accused of being the best full back in the league. Now he's in for the title of best sheepdog. Leeds United were after him in his younger days - 'cos he sh*t in their stand. Apparently. A bit of role-reversal here as the sheepdog cleaned up any mess rather than the other way around. The contents of his polythene bag was disposed of organically. Pistol looked to be in the mood as he loped around the pitch with the ball seemingly tied to his feet with wee stewart (don't mean WITH wee Stewart, but they were both on track to battle it out for MoM). Stewart again won more than his fair share of headers and won the duel with his taller (5ft 2in) opponent in that area as well as on the ground. Craig and Mikey, although outnumbered for part of this game were never dominated although I do believe this is not the case in the Dixon household...

Paul rampaged around, striking the fear of death into the opposition defence and Sean showed some subtle skill at a speed which is not to be compared with a cheetah, but service to the front players was mainly a long ball and the firm pitch didn't help to hold the ball up and many a move broke down.

The comeback started when a handball was spotted in the Pilton penalty box. And the only virgin on the goals-scored chart, Robbo, kept his nerve and hammered the ball home for a finely taken penalty andy important first goal. Half time and the Star boys were resolute that they could, yet again, pull this one out of the fire and the self-belief was evident as they, to a man agreed that if they played just a bit of football, they could, and would, win. The coaches knew without a shadow of a doubt that there would be no regrets at the final whistle and a refereeing decision would not decide this match. But as the game unfolded and players tired, the use of subs was going to be crucial with a number of players either not fully fit or lacking match practice - and a great deal of thought was put into this aspect of the match.

After 26 minutes of this half the team was now instructed to play 3-5-2 with Grant Ross and Dougie replacing Scott Hand the injured Bish, and this fresh injection lifted the Star for the remainder of the match with Grant looking particularly lively as Dougie steadied the ship at the back with some decent interceptions and headers for one so, well, auld.

At 2-1 Star were very much in the ascendancy but a scramble following a rare Pilton corner was netbound until Andrew produced yet another Banksesque save when it looked to be a certain goal. 3-1 to Pilton would have handed them the initiative again and although Star have fought back from 3 goals down recently this save proved to be pivotal and Andrew's contribution this season cannot be overstated even if the quality of the opposition hasn't been consistently high. Pilton took a real pounding at this stage in proceedings and the coaches felt it was only a matter of time before Star equalised, but the North Edinburgh club's goal had a charmed life with woodwork saving them and the bumpy pitch coming into play at awkward times as both Peter and Paul outstripped the Pilton defence but the ball bobbled at the crucial moment.

A couple of Pilton players were booked for mouthing off and one was to regret this as he made the lonely walk later on, but Star kept their discipline with only the odd run-in with the very officially officious official.

And then Star won a corner on the right. Referee said there was a minute left and the tension mounted. This must have got to Sean who took the corner, as he delivered one with such a flat trajectory that it looked to be as dangerous as Bambi on the rampage with a stick of candy floss. However, Craig Murray was not about to give this up and kept the ball alive with an acrobatic flick which found Mikey lurking - at the back post this time, not the golden Rule - and he fairly blasted the ball into the net. He then blasted himself around the perimeter of the pitch like a man who had scored a vital goal. Another magic moment in the Star's season supplied by the thin-haired midfielder and his eighth goal was chalked up on the chalky-up board. Pilton by now had made two substitutions to wind down the clock and try to lift up the petted lip of the previously unused subs and they were noticeably weaker.

16 seconds later Eddie blew and the match went into extra time, with no extra charge collected from the assembled congregation. A short break (no, not in Prague) galvanised the Star squad as did the news that Pilton were really down to 9 men as their subs had not expected to be involved in anything remotely resembling a fitba' match and one of them was robbed(ironic, really) by Craig (Artful Dodger) Murray 6 times in as many minutes (plus about 16 more, but that would have made this sentence clumsy and we certainly do not want that kind of thing creeping into my elegantly concise prose)eh? Star were still on top as skipper Craig had earlier moved up top and they were looking by far the more likely winners and the longer the game went on, the less chance the penalty shoot-out players' list would be needed. Paul showed his determination with some aggressive defending from the front and coupled with his tracking back was A great example of not accepting defeat.

12 minutes had elapsed of this first half of extra time and the Pilton 'keeper drove the ball at the right of the Star midfield. Mikey collected, looked up, saw the 'keeper was still yards off his line and from 56 yards, fired The ball high towards the goal. As it left his boot, he was heard to remark: "Get in the hole" - a simple ejaculation borrowed from the sport at which he is more competent than the one in which he was loosely engaged at the time. 36 handicapper, I'm told. As the ball flew into the net a stunned silence was heard coming from the crowd as they could not take in the fact that such a magnificent goal could have been scored by one so obviously bereft of talent and it was a good 6 seconds before the Star ranks celebrated this winning goal - a carbon copy of a strike by someone whose name escapes me against an unknown 'keeper. Nayim v Seaman for Spurs against the Arsenal actually.

Half time and a few tired legs were being stretched as cramp set in and the brave Stewart, from the Clan Stewart of Stewartry soldiered on, just like in the song, as the big wimp, Pistol cried for his mammy - again just like in the song and Mark was put on standby to replace him.

Half time was a straight turn-around and Star carried on where they left off with the 3-5-2 formation not changed. A Pilton midfielder was dismissed about now for a second yellow and Star were totally in charge, although the referee's watch seemed to have stopped. Mark made an appearance for Pistol, whose legs were by now shot and slotted in neatly with some good balls up the line for the ever-willing Paul to chase.

The home supporters were leaving in droves now as the Star section of the stadium got ready to party - fancy dress eh Aitchy, who looked good in his skateboarding outfit. And then Maca - the league's top scorer - latched on to a through ball (not a threw ball 'cos that would have come from a throw-in or a 'keeper's chuck out) and we waited for the net to bulge familiarly (sorry, plagiarised from A Mills and Boon novel). But Paul hadn't reckoned on the kamikaze nature of the opposing 'keeper and although he rounded(!) him expertly, before he could slide the ball home he was taken out at thigh height and crashed to the floor for a stonewall penalty and a dull one to the knee. The keeper had to go and it was quite lucky that the ref sent him off or he might well have pee'd his pants.

It was at this point that I knew we had won the match as there was only one outcome possible. Robbo would score and put the game beyond Pilton's reach and the whistle would go directly after the kick was taken. Hmm.. . That's two outcomes.

So Posh Boy strode up, confidence all over his cheeky pus as the stand-in 'keeper was all who stood between Robbo and his chance to double his tally for the season. He hit it well enough, but the 'keeper flew to his right and palmed the ball over for a corner. Robbo's off pens. Just enough time for the corner to be taken and Eddie blew for the last time, marking the end of the match and the first trophy for Watt Star AFC in their 37 year history.

No failures in the squad and this is the formula for future successes, but only if we can keep them all fit and not suspended. Skill, strength and superior fitness were never in doubt, but the Star players have now added discipline and, most importantly of all - character to their locker (cliche no 26). They don't know when they're beaten (27) and this is a quality that only winners have.

Thanks must go to the spectators who saw this epic and cheered on from the side-lines. Especially Siobhan Campbell(great soup) who sat on the opposition side-line, hoping to transfer her jinx to Wanderers. Seemed to work.

A mensch must go to the three retirees: Dougie (43), Andrew (40) and Scott Millar (33) all of whom have contributed massively to this and many previous seasons with a professional attitude, enthusiasm and not a little skill as they all signed off with great performances in the most important match Watt Star have ever won. Exactive's sponsorship has been fabulously illustrated with the dazzling Brasil strips on show and we'll miss Scott Millar's input in this area almost as much as his leadership qualities in the dressing room and on the pitch. Champagne flowed in the dressing-room as Pilton Albion Wanderers - gracious in defeat - handed some in to supplement the supply brought by the Star players and the last game of the season was toasted with beer and bubbly.

A magic end to a tense evening and just reward for this Star squad which will go from strength to strength.

Man of the Match - Pistol Pete.
Runner up - Small stuff Stewart.

Move of the match: The (chubbie) Pilton Albion subbie making a grand attempt at climbing over the fence (to get the ball), slipping and landing on top of said fence right on his nuts... couldn't have written a better script!

WATT STAR CROWNED LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

2008-05-20T00:53:00.000-07:00

RESULT: PILTON ALBION WANDERERS 2 - 3 WATT STAR (2-2 at full time, 2-3 after extra time)

Watt Star pulled of a memorable comeback at Patties Road football ground last night to walk away with the league title. After a last minute goal by Mike Dixon had taken the game to extra time, both teams gave everything (and more) and produced an entertaining game that was clinched by a wonder goal by Mike, again, who decided to take matters into his own hands by taking on the whole Pilton Albion team on his own - without taking a step. A full 70yds out, he calmly slotted the ball into the top corner for what must go down as (individual) goal of the season. Pilton players and staff could only look on in amazement and wonder as the ball soared over everybody's heads and into the net.

This followed a first half where Pilton enjoyed the break of the ball to go ahead with a fine finish into the top of the net from 20yds and then to go 2-0 up with a goal that was clearly off-side (on the final ball into the box) but the referee chose to over-rule the linesman who had his flag up! After one penalty claim, the referee eventually handed Star the break they deserved and awarded a second claim minutes later. This was clinically converted by Robbo for his first - and last - goal of the season. Half time came and it was 2-1 to the Wanderers. It was the Star who were wondering off into the changing room at half time though as Albion chose to stay out on the pitch for their team talk.

Watt Star were playing better stuff in the 2nd half and either team had chances to score. Andy had to pull of a great save at the near post for the Star and this followed a bout of activity in the Albion penalty area as corner followed corner followed corner. With the refs watch beeping away for full time, the final corner of the regulation 90(+3) minutes was sent into the box, wasn't cleared and there was Mr Dixon to calmly slot the ball into the back of the net. Celebrate he - and everyone else - did but this was a confidence booster for star who went on to win it in extra time.

WATT STAR are proud CHAMPIONS of the Edinburgh Central League for season 2007/2008.

Full (proper) match report to follow.

League Table - Final (as of 19-05-08

2008-05-20T00:51:00.001-07:00

Watt Star Annual Awards & Race Night

2008-04-25T02:31:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY MAY 23rd 2008

Watt Star Football Club's annual awards & race night will go ahead on Friday May 23rd at the Slateford Bowling Club so please get this in your diary.

Contributions for prizes are welcome and can be handed in to any member of the committee but please let Davie or Wattie know asap if you think you'll manage to get anything.

This night is essential for the ongoing success and growth of your club so please make an effort to sell tickets when they are available from the management.

Farewell to Fran...

2007-11-16T02:41:00.001-08:00

Star man Fran jets off with goal

Skipper for the day calms the nerves with yet another goal

By IAN MACKAY (edited - to make Fran feel good)

VETERAN Watt Star striker Fran Donoghue climaxed a fine performance to mark his last game with the amateur club he has served so well when he headed a magnificent goal against Napier University at Riccarton Campus.

The 38-year-old lawyer is taking up a position in the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean and, made skipper for the day in the Miller Cup clash with a young, fit Napier University side, Donoghue was perfectly positioned in front of the students' goal when a tempting cross came over from the right in the 56th minute.

Everyone watched in awe as the big striker buried the ball into the front of the net - to the delight of his teammates, coaches and fans on the sidelines. Donoghue gazed to the heavens in a gesture of thanks to his God (beer) and his glorious knee-slide, showing vast improvement from recent weeks was glorious as he quit the team in a blaze of glory. His 38 year old legs were gone as he was subbed with 20 minutes left to play and his team still narrowly in front at 3-2. This popular Star striker was applauded off the pitch in an emotional farewell and watched from the sidelines as his teammates went on to finish the game 4-2.

On a glorious sunny afternoon, Watt Star resplendent in their new Brasil strips looked to be fired up for the game at the start and they went in front in the eighth minute when Paul MacAnulty set up the chance for Craig Murray who feinted right, threw two defenders the wrong way and cooly found the corner of the net with a fine left footed pass into the bottom corner to open the scoring. With both teams playing slick passes on the immaculate playing surface, Star continued to have the bulk of the early play and a great effort from Garry MacDonald was deflected behind for a corner.

The Napier players were under great pressure but they settled down and built up several good attacking moves of their own, and duly shocked the home side with the equalising goal in the 19th minute. A cross was not cleared by the hesitant Watt Star defence and John O'Hara pounced to hammer the ball low shot past home goalkeeper Andrew Campbell. On the restart, Watt Star went straight back up the field and MacAnulty linked up with (Franbasten) Donoghue, kept his run going and Ravenelli played an acrobatic 1-2 with MacAnulty who finished brilliantly to make it 2-1. Adefender was substituted after being muscled out of the challenge by the top scorer and he’ll think twice next time out. That superb goal came in the 24th minute and the remainder of the first half was played at tremendous pace with great attacking moves from both sides. Indeed, Star had a good shout for a goal as the ball was clearly over the line, but referee Kirkwood could not give it as he was rooted to the centre circle. Centre circle? Centre spot actually.

The students went on to make it 2-2 with a goal in the 42nd minute, Josic Degrolard setting up a great pass for the hardworking Joe Sudron to fire home. But in time added on by the referee, Watt Star went back in front with another cracker of a goal, MacAnulty delivering a great ball from the left corner flag for Nichols to poke in at the far post and make it 3-2 for Star in the 48th minute of the first half. 3-2 at h/t with the Star boys told they could only lose it now - and they had no intention of this happening. But chasing the game was not an option and keeping the ball was now the plan.

While Star battled to add to their slender lead in the second half, Napier University upped the pace in a bid to get back on level terms again. Most of the best chances came from setpieces with a couple of half-hearted claims for penalties as players went down in the respective boxes. Craig Heriot produced a great saving tackle to deny the students and home keeper Campbell pulled off a great save from Chris Crookes. But the busier keeper of the two was Matt Bettoli in the Napier goal. He was all over the place at times in the hectic action. MacAnulty almost scored again for Star, but his shot was cleared off the line by defender Crookes with Bettoli out of his goal.

Garry MacDonald took an elbow in the eye, and had to be replaced by Ewen Brown who settled in to midfield. Shortly afterwards, Rasho came on for the struggling Hermo, going to wide left, with Craig Murray into centre mid and the wee Mackem showed good skill at speed to give the Napier boys something else to think about.

And then the Silver Fox struck when the Napier defenders all he’ll no doubt remember this day for a long time to come, as an assist and a goal went a long way to deciding this cup-tie. Stewart Graham replaced him and almost scored if only his toebash technique had been better. Star’s Nichols cramped up (again) and he had to go off after treatment, only to come straight back on again to join the fray. The team was readjusted again with Rasho going wide right, How do you tame such a maverick? Answer: beat him at poker! Donoghue will leave his amateur club with fond memories of a great game of football, climaxing in the clinching goal. Watt Star were deserved winners in the end, but they were made to work very hard indeed by a good young Napier University squad.

Watt Star: (3-5-2) Andrew Campbell, Stuart Bishop, Craig Heriot, Scott Millar, Peter Stewart, Wayne Munro, Sean Bingham, Liam Gormley, Josic Degrolard, Chris Cookes, John O'Hara, Joe Sudron, Graeme Affleck, Calum Wallace, Kirk MacMillan, Brandan Gibney, Paul Henderson. Referee: John Kirkwood.

Man of the Match: Paul MacAnulty. Craig Murray and Pistol Pete runners up.

Is it merely co-incidence that these all finished on the score-sheet?

Actually, yes.