My Opinion August 2002

There was a definite feeling that John Connolly didn't fancy him, and he started as probably 4th choice center half last season, but by Christmas had re established himself as the only player to have survived the pre Connolly era. Still has a tendency to play silly passes when a punt up the pitch is in order, and could do with improving his distribution, but should be a hit in the 1st Division.

My Opinion June 2001

Now Queens longest serving player, he had yet another consistent season last year, regaining form after a little slump in confidence. Even still, Queens had the second worst defensive record in the league, and the arrival of 3 quality center halves has inevitably led to a resurrection of the Carlisle talk. I hope he doesn't go, not least because I sponsored him last season and would quite like to do so again (if only because he is the first player alphabetically!)

The recent talk of a move to Carlisle doesn't seem to have unsettled him and, thankfully, seems to now be dieing down. Still by far our most consistent defender, and the last couple of weeks, beside a solid partner, has seen a return to something like the form of a couple of season's ago.

My player of the season last year has had a tough time of it this year. I was really surprised that he wasn't snapped up by Aberdeen when he went with Lilley and McAllister on trial during the close season. Unfortunately, due to reasons I believe to be beyond his control, this season must have been a major dent to his confidence although he has been made captain in recent weeks. I have played at center half (admittedly at a different level) for a team who's midfield makes no effort to run back with their man and believe me it's easy to look stupid when you're trying to pick up three men and go for the wrong one or even go for the right one but miss out because your still thinking about the other two guys. Purely for confidence reasons, I would like to see him moved back to left back for a spell.

Another steady player who does his job well without being too spectacular. Doesn't overlap as well as Kennedy but tucks in well to form a five when the pressure is on.

Andy forms a formidable partnership with George Rowe and he is hard to beat in the air. Joined Queens three years ago from his home town side, Annan Athletic and since moving from full back to central defense his performances have improved greatly. Was on trial for a week with Aberdeen at the end of last season.

Andy broke through to first team duty at the end of last season (96/97) and is still learning the game but has showed from his performances that he has tremendous potential to go much further in the future. A very aggressive player, strong in the tackle and has a great engine for a young pro. A product of Queens youth policy who is tipped for international honours.