Cowden open with a draw

Cowden battled back to return with a 1-1 scoreline from Arbroath on Wednesday night but only after a tremendous tussle against the Third Division side.

Few fans in the 638 crowd at rain-lashed Gayfield  would disagree the fact that  Arbroath should have been at least 2-0 ahead at half-time, being denied only by an unbelievable point-blank block by keeper Davie Hay and a brilliant goal-line headed clearance by  Pat Scullion.

Shot-shy Cowden continued to struggle after the break and it was no surprise when Arbroath went ahead through a Watson free-kick which burst through the Blue Brazil defensive wall at the second attempt.

Although Cowden moved up a gear it took another magnificent save by Hay to keep the score at 1-0. Then boss Brian Welsh decided to put on Dundee loan winger Scott Gates and his introduction transformed the whole game.

Gates tormented and teased the Lichties defence and at last Cowden were in command of the game and came close  to equalising several times.

However, it took a piece of footballing magic from star stopper Dougie Hill to produce an equaliser. He played keepy-uppy as he waltzed through the Arbroath defence and they took the only possible option by hacking him down for a penalty.

Dougie's ecstatic celebrations BEFORE the spot-kick was taken will live long in the memories of the Cowden fans there and fortunately Pat Scullion capped the joy by ramming home the penalty.

It was all Cowden after that but a draw was an acceptable outcome with the return leg of the semi-final at Central Park on Saturday and, if successful, Cowden will entertain the winners of the Stranraer v Montrose semi-final at Central Park on Wednesday with the final decider away on Saturday, May 10.

Victory denied by Broonie

Cowden seem certain to be  involved in the relegation play-offs despite ending their dismal run of home defeats by drawing 1-1 against Alloa Athletic at Central Park on Saturday.

The Blue Brazil maintained their recent improved form and deservedly took the lead when a powerful header from sub John O'Neill created an opening for Paul McQuade and the young striker finished the job in style.

A long overdue home victory seemed on the cards until the closing minutes when former Central Park star Graeme Brown rolled in the equaliser. Even worse was the news that fellow strugglers Queens Park had beaten Peterhead.

Cowden's season-long injury jinx continued as Bryan Gilfillan, Mark Ramsay and Paul McQuade all limped off injured.

The Blue Brazil face promotion contenders Airdrie United and then champions Ross County - both away from home - on the next two Saturdays before wrapping up their regular season against Queens Park at Central Park.

Back to winning ways

Battling Cowden recorded a magnificent 3-2 victory over relegation  rivals Queens Park at a rain-swept Hampden on Tuesday night to keep alive the dream of avoiding the play-offs.

For once, Lady Luck smiled on the Blue Brazil as the home side scorned several golden chances to score. Even better, a defensive blunder handed Cowden winger Scott Gates a clear-cut opportunity to open the scoring and he bundled the ball over the line at the second attempt.

Three minutes later the 60-odd Cowden fans were celebrating again when a John Dempster header was diverted into the net by Paul McQuade from point-blank range.

The interval arrived with Cowden fans still unable to believe their luck but the second half was a different story as confidence oozed through the whole side.

Unfortunately they failed to finish off some fine play and the inevitable happened as the ref allowed play to continue with Bryan Gilfillan lying in a heap on the halfway line and the ball reached the unmarked Ferry who tapped it home.

Gilfillan was subbed off and next casualty was star defender Dougie Hill  who was cynically taken out by a late tackle and did not see young Denis McLaughlin calmly fire Cowden 3-1 ahead after several openings were squandered.

Hill played out the game as a limping striker and although Queens scrambled home a second goal by Quinn, the Cowden youngsters - marshalled by Pat Scullion - held on to collect a well-deserved win bonus and a standing ovation from the faithful fans.

Cowden must now produce another winning performance against Alloa Athletic at Central Park on Saturdat to keep the dream alive.

County handed gift goals

Cowden gift-wrapped three points to League leaders Ross County as they slithered to a 4-2 defeat at a rainswept Central Park on Saturday.

Two own goals - the first after only 20 seconds - left Cowden a mountain to climb but they turned in a below-par performance.

John Armstrong headed in the early own goal and then only seconds after Ross keeper Tony Bullock had pulled off a wonder save from a Dougie Hill piledriver, Dave Armstrong turned the ball into the Cowden net to make it 2-0.

Another defensive mix-up at the start of second half allowed Martin Scott to prod the ball past Davie Hay to make it 3-0.

Cowden at last came to life when top scorer Pat Clarke was subbed on with 20 minutes to go and scored with his first touch of the ball.

However another howler - this time from the normally reliable Davie Hay - allowed Andy Barrowman to tap in from two feet and it was game over, although John Dempster blasted in a second for Cowden in the last minute.

The Blue Brazil now travel south to face bottom club Berwick Rangers on Saturday.

Manager |Brian Welsh and assistant Danny Lennon are well ahead with the build-up to the new season and saw their team put up a creditable display against Bristol Rovers despite losing 2-1 at Central Park.

First League game at Central Park is on August 11 when new boss Dick Campbell brings his relegated Ross County side to town.

Blue Brazil see red!

Cowden finished the season with a 1-0 defeat at Brechin but the main talking point was the two red cards handed out in the dying seconds of an otherwise lacklustre encounter.

Young defender David Armstrong was given his marching orders for tripping a Brechin forward who was racing through on goal. This prompted a stramash involving several players, with the referee picking out another Cowden defender - Dougie Hill - and sending him too for an early bath.

Brechin had taken the lead after 75 minutes when Paddy Connolly slammed the ball into the net from the edge of the box after the Cowden defence had failed to clear their lines.

The Blue Brazil pressed for a leveller, with Gary Kenneth and Liam Buchanan coming close. But the match appeared to be tapering out, until the explosive finale.

Brian Welsh's men have finished in a highly ceditable sixth place, a comfortable six points clear of the relegation zone. 

Goal drought goes on

Cowden's goal drought continued as they drew another blank in a 0-0 draw against Alloa Athletic at Recreation Park on Saturday.

The Blue Brazil have not hit the target since they slapped six past Stranraer five games ago but at least this latest goalless affair was an entertaining match.

Proof of this was the applause at the end from the 200-plus Cowden fans including SPL star Markus Paatelainen.

A glorious afernoon was great for the fans but a bit hot for the players as the pitch was very bumpy.

Perhaps that was the reason so many golden chances were squandered by both sides, Alloa in particular being denied by remarkable stops from Davie Hay and Gary Kenneth.

Liam Buchanan, Pat Clarke, Matthew Doherty and Stephen Husband all passed up good chances but it took a magnificent stop by the home keeper to deny Husband late in the game. The 16-year-old midfielder turned in an impressive performance on his first-ever senior start.

Cowden now complete their home League programme when Ayr United - unbeaten in their last seven games - visit Central Park on Saturday. 

Job well done by Cowden 

Cowden duly collected the single point required to retain their Second Division status next season when they drew 0-0 with Stranraer at Central Park on Saturday.

Boss Brian Welsh and his squad can take a lot of credit as the survival target was achieved but Cowden fans will be hoping they wont see another game like Saturday's for a long time. 

It was dire from start to finish as Cowden failed to find the net for the third successive game and a million miles removed from the impressive midweek display at Stirling.

Although the fiery surface did not help, Cowden struggled to string three passes together and failed to put the Stranraer defence under pressure.

However, it was mission accomplished and the Central Parkers remain in a very respectable sixth place with a trip to Alloa coming up on Saturday.

One step from safety

Cowden, despite losing 1-0 at Stirling on Tuesday night, arer now just one step away from ensuring Second Division football at Central Park next season.

The Blue Brazil return to Central Park after three successive away fixtures when they play host to Stranraer on Saturday.

A repeat of their recent victory over the same opponents - or even a draw - would guarantee Brian Welsh's side will escape relegation. 

The midweek defeat at Forthbank was a travesty of justice for Cowden's high-tempo performance which made the title contenders look pretty ordinary.

Steven Weir, drafted in for the virus-hit Pat Clarke, was desperately unlucky not to notch his first Cowden goal when put through by Gary Fusco but his lob went over the top.

Weir then had a close-in effort blocked on the line but should have done better than blast the ball into the side nettting after being sent clear by Pat Scullion.

The Blue Brazil were left to rue their missed chances when Stirling striker Colin Cramb was allowed a free header from a free-kick to score the only goal of the game on the hour mark.

Cowden redoubled their efforts but drew another blank yet the travelling support stayed behind to applaud them off the park.

They have slipped to sixth spot in the League but will achieve their target for the season if they avoid defeat on Saturday.

Cowden lose out to leaders

Cowden's recent run of success came to a shuddering stop when they were beaten 3-0 by title favourites Morton at Greenock on Saturday.

Brian Welsh's side battled for 90 minutes against the League leaders but were always struggling after going behind to  a farcical penalty award in the tenth minute.

Not for the first time this season, McGowan dived to the ground when approached by Dougie Hill and referee Nicholls fell for it hook, line and sinker.

Stevenson slotted home the penalty but worse was to follow as McGowan was gifted a second goal and Cowden went into the break undeservedly trailing 2-0.

Morton edged the second half, particularly after a midfield blunder allowed McGowan to net yet another soft counter to clinch his side's fourth victory over Cowden this season.

Young defender Davie Anderson hobbled off with a serious knee injury to complete a miserable day for the travelling fans, many of whom had again been overcharged by the turnstile operator.

The Blue Brazil face another testing away fixture against promotion contenders Stirling Albion at Forthbank on Tuesday (kick-off 7.30pm).

The official Supporters Club bus will leave Central Park at 6.10pm.

Pat's five-star show

Cowden took a giant step to ensuring there will be Second Division football at Central Park next season after a storming 6-1 victory at Stranraer on Sunday.

21-year-old striker Pat Clarke scored twice in the opening 90 seconds and then went on to complete an astonishing hat-trick after only ten minutes.

The Cowden goal spree continued when midfielder Pat Scullion notched a fourth in the 16th minute and the travelling fans celebrated once more.

Moore pulled one back for Stranraer before the interval but by that time Brian Welsh's side were well on their way to a third successive win.

Clarke struck once more with 20 minutes to go and then again in the last minute to lift his goal total for the season to 17. Not since George Watson 72 years ago against Dumbarton has a Cowden player finished with five goals in a game!

This latest victory hoisted Cowden into fifth place in the League - a magnificent achievement for a newly-promoted team. 

The Blue Brazil now face another couple of testing away fixtures against the League leaders Morton at Greenock on Saturday, followed by a trip to Stirling on Tuesday (kick-off 7.30pm).

Buses to Greenock and Stirling

The Supporters Club is running buses to Cowdenbeath's next two League games against Morton on Saturday and to Stirling on Tuesday (note date change). 

After the team's stunning victory at Stranraer it would be much appreciated if the fans could once more get behind the team as the season draws to its conclusion.   Seats can be reserved by contacting David Allan on daallan6754@aol.com or on 01383 724000.

The bus will depart at 12.00 from Central Park for Greenock on Saturday.  Tuesday's trip to Stirling will leave from Central Park at 6.10pm for a 7.30 kick off.   Fares for Morton will be £10 Standard, £8 Junior/OAP and £16 family.  Stirling prices are £8 adult, £6 OAP/Junior and £12 family." 

Home hoodoo is ended

Cowden, without a home League win since before Christmas, buried their Central Park hoodoo with a 2-1 victory over bottom club Forfar Athletic on Saturday.

It was the first time the Blue Brazil had recorded back-to-back League wins since mid-August and they had to fight hard, especially against the gale and rain in the first half.

Boss Brian Welsh handed a Cowden debut to Dundee United loan star Garry Kenneth and there was also a place on the bench for veteran keeper John Martin.

The normally safe hands of home keeper Davie Hay spilled an inswinging free-kick and Gary Fraser was first to react, prodding a deflected effort over the to give Forfar an early lead. 

Cowden dominated from then on but were still behind at the interval despite numerous attempts at goal including a spectacular overhead effort from Dougie Hill.

A minute into the second period and Cowden were on level terms when Forfar keeper Sandy Wood took a fresh-air kick at a passback and ace marksman Liam Buchanan rolled the ball into the empty net.

The club's leading scorer struck again in 66 minutes when he was in the right place to sweep home a pinpoint cross from skipper Mark Baxter. 

It was Buchanan's fifth goal in five games and brought his total for the Blue Brazil to a fantastic 58, a total bettered by a mere dozen players in the club's 126-year history.

The Blue Brazil now face a trio of tricky away fixtures, starting at Stranraer on Sunday, followed by Greenock and Stirling.

Great victory at Peterhead

Following hard on the heels of veteran defender Davie Hannah's return to Iceland, Cowden boss Brian Welsh has moved swiftly to fix up Garry Kenneth.

The 19-year-old, who stands 6ft 4ins tall, arrives at Central Park from Premier League Dundee United, havng made his debut for the Tannadice side two years ago.

Garry will join another recent Premier loan signing, David Armstrong, in the Blue Brazil squad to face Forfar Athletic at Central Park on Saturday. 

Cowden shrugged off their double defeat at home in the last week to grab three precious points thanks to a deserved 2-0 victory at Peterhead on Saturday.

It was their second successive 2-0 away victory and a well-deserved bonus for the team which hasn't won at Central Park since before Christmas.

Defensive star Dougie Hill opened the scoring for Brian Welsh's side midway through the first half, his first League goal of the season although he knocked home the winner at Brechin in the Scottish Cup. 

21-year-old striker Pat Clarke then doubled Cowden's advantage soon afer the restart with his 12th strike this season and then the whole team put in maximum effort to ensure the points were safe.

The Blue Brazil now face a 'must win' game on Saturday when bottom team Forfar Athletic visit Central Park before they have three away fixtures at Stranraer, Greenock and Stirling.

Battling Cowden beaten

Cowden battled on bravely to regain some of their lost pride but still went down 2-1 to promotion candidates Stirling Albion at Central Park on Tuesday night.

The Blue Brazil have now gone seven games without a home win but their commitment and effort against the Binos certainly could not be questioned.

Graham Guy, Matthew Docherty, Pat Clarke and Gary Fusco were all missing from the starting line-up which faced Raith and boss Brian Welsh handed a Cowden debut to Ireland under-21 cap David Armstrong signed on loan from Hearts.

However it was Livvy loan star Robert Snodgrass who gave Stirling an interval lead as Cowden battled against the gale.

The Binos doubled their lead just after the break when a David O'Brien cross hit Mark Baxter's foot and looped over Cowden keeper Davie Hay for a fluke goal.

Albion keeper Myles Hogarth pulled off the save of the season from a flying header by Liam Buchanan but a minute later the Blue Brazil's leading marksman blasted a net-bound Scott Dalziel effort over the line.

That set up a grandstand finish as Stirling lost their composure but the Cowden pressure failed to deliver an equaliser.

The Blue Brazil now face another vital fixture at Peterhead on Saturday when the supporters bus will leave Central Park at 10.45pm. Prices are £12 and£10 and seats can be booked through daallan6754@aol.com or 01383 724000.

Derby day defeat

Cowden crashed to a 5-1 defeat at the hands of local rivals Raith Rovers in the final Fife derby of the season.

Blue Brazil fans in the 2249 crowd were hoping to see their first win at Central Park since Christmas but were forced to look on in horror as their side took a thumping from a pretty ordinary Raith outfit.

Boss Brian Welsh brought in Mark Baxter and Pat Clarke in place of Scott Dalziel and Murray Davidson from the side which won at Ayr last week.

Defender Dougie Hill was writhing in agony for over a minute after being fouled but ref Colin Burns allowed play to continue and Cowden were still all at sea when unmarked Kevin Fotheringham opened the scoring.

Ref Burns then bottled his first big decision when Marvin Andrews hacked down Cowden leading scorer Liam Buchanan just as he was about to score. Buchanan equalised from the penalty but Andrews somehow escaped the automatic red card.

The Northern Ireland official flashed yellow cards at random throughout the game but that was no excuse for the home defence which conceded another three goals before the interval, although the last one was offside.

It was 'game over' at the interval and Raith killed the game with a fifth goal midway through the second half.

Brian Welsh's misery was complete when he was sent to the stand after another run-in with linesman Jimmy Bee, the man who somehow missed the offside offence for Raith's goal. 

The Blue Brazil now face another vital fixture when the re-arranged Second Division game against high-flying Stirling Albion goes ahead at Central Park on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.45pm.

Cowden blow Ayr away

Cowden dug deep to produce a terrific battling performance and a thoroughly-deserved 2-0 victory over Ayr United at Somerset Park on Saturday.

An early Liam Buchanan penalty - the first to be awarded to the Central Parkers this season - and a second-half wonder strike from Pat Scullion secured the points for a Blue Brazil side which fought for every ball from start to finish. 

Boss Brian Welsh brought in Graham Guy, Scott Dalziel, Murray Davidson and Pat Scullion to the starting line-up and all four were outstanding but it would be unfair to pick any individuals out.

This was a total team display, inspired by stand-in skipper Davie Hannah, and subs Pat Clarke and Martyn Fotheringham showed the same hunger when they came on.  If Cowden show the same commitment in their 11 remaining games then there will again be Second Division football at Central Park next season.

The band of Blue Brazil diehards were celebrating early when Liam Buchanan slammed home his 17th goal of the season from an unlikely source - a Cowden penalty awarded after Scott Dalziel was felled by the home keeper.

Cowden should have had their second penalty of the season when Buchanan was pushed in the back as he bore in on goal but the referee's refusal meant it was still 1-0 at the interval.

Highlight of the game came in the second half when Cowden carved out a magnificent goal. A flowing move sent the ball wide left to Matt Doherty and he swept it square to Martyn Fotheringham  who promptly pushed it wide right to Pat Scullion.

The youngster took a touch before unleashing a vicious dipping volley from outside the box which flew into the net. A remarkable strike and his first goal since the opening day of the season.

Liam Buchanan should have made it 3-0 when sent absolutely clear by Matt Doherty but scuffed his shot straight to the keeper.

The miss did not matter as it happened with the whole team tackling like demons and they deservedly picked up their first League win bonus since the New Year derby.

Cowden now face a double-header at Central Park this week when high-flying Stirling Albion arrive on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.45) and then local rivals Raith Rovers travel up on Saturday for the final Fife derby of the season.

Penalty exit from Fife Cup

Cowden skipper Mark Baxter limped off during the Fife Cup semi-final against Dunfermline at Central Park on Tuesday night and must be rated doubtful for the vital League game at Ayr on Saturday.

Seats can be reserved by contacting David Allan on daallan6754@aol.com or on 01383 724000. The bus will depart at 11.45am from Central Park.  Prices are £10 adult, £8 OAP/juniors & £16 for a family.  Non-members pay an extra £2 over the advertised fares.

Beaten by Brechin

Cowden are still searching for their first home win since Christmas after losing 3-0 to Brechin City at Central Park on Saturday.

Brian Welsh's side were lucky to be only 1-0 behind to an Iain Russell goal at the interval as Brechin troubled the Cowden defence repeatedly with the long ball.

Cowden brought on Steven Weir at half-time and they started to spark a little but defensive slackness soon allowed Russell to make it 2-0.

Veteran City keeper Craig Nelson denied Liam Buchanan with a fabulous one-handed save from a point-blank volley.

City took control as the game progressed and it was no surprise when Russell laid on a third goal for Stevie Hampshire.

Referee Law insisted the floodlights be switched on despite the blazing sunshine but even that bizarre decision did not enable Cowden to see any light at the end of the tunnel.

Now they have been sucked into the relegation play-off zone although they have games in hand. 

The Blue Brazil will be back in action at  Central Park on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.30) when the Fife Cup semi-final against Dunfermline will be staged. Admission prices are £4 and £2.

New date for Stirling game

Cowden's Second Division fixture against title challengers Stirling Albion - frozen off on Saturday - has been re-arranged for Tuesday, February 27, at Central Park.

The Blue Brazil will also be in action at  Central Park on Tuesday first when the Fife Cup semi-final against Dunfermline will be staged.

Before that, of course, Brian Welsh's men face Brechin City on Saturday, again at Central Park. City beat table-toppers Morton last week but Cowden beat them at Brechin last month. 

Meanwhile, Cowden Supporters Club is organising a trip to Finland to see Mixu and Mikko Paateleainen’s new side in action.

The Finnish League fixtures have recently been released and the provisional arrangement is that the Ble Brazil contingent will visit Turku to see TPS play VPS Vaasa on Sunday, May 27.

Suggested arrangements involve flying to Helsinki on Friday, May 25, and staying one night in the Finnish capital where  the fans  have been invited to meet a representative of the Finnish FA.

On the Saturday evening there would be a two-hour train journey to Turku and the fans would spend two nights there before returning to Helsinki on Monday for the flight home. 

The Supporters Club will also be getting in touch with Mixu to hopefully meet up during the visit.  Details will be firmed up shortly but meantime those interested should contact David Allan or John Cameron.

They now face a tough assignment in the League when title hopefuls Stirling Albion visit Central Park on Saturday.  

Hannah and Dougie Hill were immense in the Cowden defence but it took a wonderful double block by Davie Hay to take Cowden a precious point nearer safety.

Teenage loan striker Steven Weir misses out through suspension but new midfield youngsters Iain Ramsay (ex-Gretna) and Matthew Doherty (on loan from Hearts) should be in the squad.

There was no way back for the Blue Brazil and they have now slipped to fifth place in the table. Attention now switches to the Scottish Cup on Tuesday evening when Cowden travel to Brechin for their third-round replay.

Markus is just magic

Cowden repeated their earlier derby success at Starks Park with a stirring 2-1 victory over Raith Rovers on Tuesday. 

The Blue Brazil gave their fans in the 2744 crowd the happiest of New Years by coming from behind to yet again claim the scalp of their Fife rivals.

Boss Brian Welsh moved veteran David Hannah into midfield and also handed a debut to teenage striker Steven Weir, on loan from Livingston.

Cowden were dealt an early blow when Danny Lennon limped off after only 10 minutes but Martyn Fotheringham slotted in comfortably to the midfield role.

Keeper Davie Hay made a decent stop from Ian Harty but the first-half ended goalless after being fought out in a typical derby fashion.

Second half the script changed dramatically as the Cowden choir pumped up the volume and Markus Paatelainen started to torment the Raith defence who had no answer to his mazy runs down the left touchline.

Weir went off to a great ovation on the hour mark after a solid shift and was replaced by ex-Raith striker Pat Clarke.

Cowden really started to motor and Clarke was unlucky when he was put through by Paatelainen but his net-bound shot hit keeper Chris Fahey's leg and went behind.

Fahey, who seemed more interested in winding up the Cowden fans than anything else, got even more abuse when Paatelainen was denied a penalty for a push in the back and the keeper gestured to the crowd.

However, Fahey was soon leaping about like a demented haddock as he celebrated the opening goal by Raith's McManus with 20 minutes to go.

The home end had barely started their "You're not singing any more" chorus when Liam Buchanan shut them up, turning his marker and beating Fahey with ease from the edge of the box.

It was mayhem in the Cowden stand as the big travelling support sensed another derby victory and it was duly delivered.

Magnificent interplay between Buchanan and Clarke carved open the home defence and although Clarke's effort hit Fahey, Paatelainen was in the right spot  to stab the ball over the line for a deserved winner.

There was still time for Davie Hay to make a couple of super saves buty the Cowden fans barely noticed as they celebrated loud and long.

The Blue Brazil now face Brechin City for the second time in a week when the clubs clash again in the third round of the Tennents Scottish Cup at Central Park on Saturday.

Although Brechin came out on top on the Glebe Park mud heap last week, Cowden should have nothing to fear with home advantage.

Liam hits a hat-trick

Ace goal-grabber Liam Buchanan led the way as Cowden handed Alloa Athletic their second Central Park drubbing of the season by winning 5-2 on Saturday.

Buchanan took less than a minute to notch his 50th career goal for the Blue Brazil and what a Christmas cracker it was as he fired in a glorious 25-yarder.

The wee man repeated the feat in the opening minute of the second half, turning on a sixpence and blasting the ball past keeper Allan Greer.

Buchanan then completed a memorable hat-trick when he side-footed home a return pass from Laurie Ellis.

Ellis also played a starring role, restoring Cowden's lead - after McKeown had converted a spot-kick for Alloa - on the stroke of half-time when he popped up at the back post to stab home a Markus Paatelainen pass.

Ellis added another with a clever lob from a narrow angle which left keeper Greer absolutely helpless.

Mackie netted a consolation counter for Alloa - who later had Clark dismissed for lifting his hands to Kevin McBride.

Cowden boss Brian Welsh, who left Tannadice-bound Morgaro Gomis out  of his starting line-up,  brought on youngsters Grant Manzie and Stephen Husband, the latter making his senior debut.

The Blue Brazil's victory hoisted them into a promotion play-off position and is a real confidence booster for the away matches against Brechin on Saturday and Raith on Tuesday.

Another away defeat

Cowden are still clinging to fifth place in the Second Division despite losing 1-0 to the in-form Stirling Albion at Forthbank on Saturday.

Davie Hay, Gary Fusco and Morgaro Gomis all returned to the starting line-up but the less said about Coowden's first-half performance the better as they were outclassed and out-passed.

Even their set-piece efforts at free-kicks and corners were woeful and a solitary Markus Paatelainen drive was their only shot at goal.

Stirling took advantage of Cowden's lacklustre display to notch the only goal of the game, Colin Cramb rattling in a crisp 15-yarder after ref Colin Hardie chose to ignore a high boot in David Hannah's face.

Cowden pepped up after the interval as they raised the tempo and were denied a clear case for a penalty when Fusco was tripped as he raced in on goal.

However it wasnt until Cowden resorted to the high ball that genuine chances were created, the first from a Scott Dalziel cross and the second from a Martyn Fotheringham free-kick.

In both cases the ball broke to the right foot of Morgaro Gomis inside the box but the little Frenchman blasted the ball over the bar on each occasion.

Club captain Innes Ritchie - who sat among the Cowden fans at Forthbank - will complete his two-match suspension when Cowden entertain Alloa Athletic on League business at Cenral Park on Saturday.

Home draw in Scottish

Cowden will face Brechin City at Central Park in the third round of the Scottish Cup after beating the students of Edinburgh University at home on Saturday.

The final 5-1 scoreline disguised the fact that the students put up a spirited show in front of 896 fans before the Blue Brazil marched through to the next round on January 6.

There was an early shock for Cowden fans with the non-appearance of Morgaro Gomis and Pat Clarke, the latter reporting sick while the young French star was sidelined at the request of future employers Dundee Utd. 16-year-old keeper Kyle Allison retained his place, with the ageless John Martin  named as sub goalie.

University provided an early scare when they had the ball in the net after 10 minutes but an offside flag dampened the Students' celebrations.

Cowden eventually took the lead on the half-hour mark when good passing between Markus Paatelainen and Mark Baxter opened the door for Liam Buchanan to bundle the ball home from close range.

Veteran Danny Lennon scored his first Cowden goal when he found himself in space and slotted past the advancing keeper. The Students challenge was virtually snuffed out before the interval when Buchanan followed up to net from an acute angle after keeper Bennett had parried a Paatelainen shot.

There was little action at the start of the second half but the game sparked into life with 20 minutes remaining when James Hair pulled one back for University, controlling the ball and volleying high into the net in spectacular fashion.

Cowden clinched the tie with two headed goals in the final 10 minutes. 16-year-old Grant Manzie - who had replaced the injured Buchanan - picked out Paatelainen with a perfectly flighted cross and the Finn made no mistake with his downward header. Then Laurie Ellis provided a similar opportunity for Mark Baxter and the defender powered a header into the net from close range.

Club captain Innes Ritchie will be suspended when Cowden return to League business with a visit to Stirling Albion on Saturday.

Liam is an all-time great

Liam Buchanan's magnificent hat-trick against Stranraer at Central Park on Saturday has blasted him into the top 20 all-time Cowdenbeath scorers.

The deadly striker has banged in goals galore for the Blue Brazil all the way up from the youth set-up and his total for the first team is now only three short of a half-century.

Liam now sits proudly at 17th place in the list of League goalscorers in the club's 125-year history with only Graeme Brown of the modern era rated higher.

Still only 21, Liam is already a Cowden legend and next to face his firepower will be the students of Edinburgh University in the second round of the Scottish Cup at Central Park on Saturday.

Cowden are currently the highest-scoring home team in Scotland and Buchanan will have ample back-up from Markus Paatelainen, Pat Clarke and Scott Dalziel who have scored 22 goals already this term. 

Skipper Innes Ritchie will be available to face the students but will start his latest suspension when Cowden visit Stirling Albion on Saturday, December 16.

Meanwhile young Paul McBride has been released by boss Brian Welsh and 21-year-old Morgaro Gomis is heading to Tannadice next month for a £15,000 fee.

Buchanan blitzes Stranraer

Cowden top scorer Liam Buchanan blasted home a magnificent hat-trick as the Blue Brazil beat Stranraer 4-2 in a thrilling encounter at Central Park on Saturday.

Buchanan opened the scoring after 14 minutes, driving home after a fierce Pat Clarke effort had been brilliantly blocked by Stranraer keeper Scott Black.

Clarke had a net-bound header cleared off the line and Buchanan's follow-up effort was tipped over by Black.

Steven Aitken equalised when he beat Davie Hay with a low drive from outside the box. The Cowden keeper - who had pulled a muscle in the warm-up - was replaced by 16-year-old Kyle Allison, making his senior debut.

Cowden enjoyed the advantage of a strong wind as the second half got underway and Buchanan soon struck again, side-footing home a Laurie Ellis cut-back after Markus Paatelainen had hit the woodwork.

Mark Crilly levelled the match with a well-taken free kick from 25 yards which set up a grandstand finish with both sides creating chances.

The introduction of Scott Dalziel added impetus to the Cowden attack and the big striker headed home a Buchanan cross for what looked like a late winner.

That man Buchanan, however, was not finished and he completed a memorable hat-trick when Dalziel released him through the middle and the little striker confidently slotted past Black.

Fluke strike sinks Cowden

Cowden matched League leaders Greenock Morton every inch of the way at Cappielow on Saturday but left pointless after conceding a late goal which was deflected into the net.

The Blue Brazil fans - including a contingent from Finland - silenced the home support with non-stop backing from start to finish.

However, giant Fifer Chris Templeman - ribbed mercilessly by the Cowden fans during his warm-up - had the last hee-haw when he came on to score the only goal of the game with a shot wickedly deflected past keeper Davie Hay.

Boss Brian Welsh added Innes Ritchie, Graham Guy and David Hannah to his starting line-up but Guy lasted little more than 15 minutes before limping off. New signing Hannah slotted in nicely beside Innes Ritchie but that partnership will soon be interrupted after the skipper picked up another booking.

In an evenly-matched contest, Morton missed a couple of golden chances but so did Cowden in the second half. And the referee infuriated the vocal Cowden support by ignoring solid penalty claims  for a blatant hand-ball and an obvious trip.

Markus Paatelainen came closest of all with an angled drive which the Morton keeper managed to finger-tip on to the bar.

16-year-old Callum McKinlay was handed his senior debut for the Blue Brazil when he was subbed on for the final few minutes.

Cowden will now host Stranraer at Central Park on Saturday and then meet Edinburgh University in the second round of the Scottish Cup at Central Park on Saturday, December 9.

Premier chance for Morgaro

Blue Brazil star Morgaro Gomis has started full-time training with Premier side Dundee United linked to a possible move during the transfer window.

Ex-Cowden manager Craig Levein is now boss at Tannadice and asked permission to have a closer look at the classy midfielder.

Gomis headed home an injury-time winner to secure a 3-2 victory over Forfar Athletic at Central Park last Saturday.

The young Frenchman's late strike brought to an end Cowden's recent dismal run and also enabled new boss Brian Welsh to record his first victory in charge.

Markus Paatelainen, stretchered off the previous week, returned with a vengeance by scoring a glory double to bring his total to eight this season.

A bitterly cold and blustery day restricted the attendance to 383 but a band of Cowden fans from Dublin created a great atmosphere.

Boss Brian Welsh had to re-shuffle his plans when skipper Innes Ritchie pulled out in the pre-match warm-up with a leg injury but there was a place for newly-appointed assistant manager Danny Lennon in the starting line-up.

Lennon, in fact, was an inspirational figure in some great passing play from Cowden which, however, failed to trouble Forfar keeper Sean Murdoch in a lively first half.

It was a different story after the interval when fans favourite Markus Paatelainen stepped up to the mark.

First he steered home a stunning header  from a Mark Baxter cross after 53 minutes and soon scored a second with a clever chip after a Davie Hay clearance had been nodded on by Liam Buchanan.

Blue Brazilians celebrated in style and none more so than title-winning manager Mixu Paatelainen, back once again to support the team.

Cowden should have gone on to wrap up the points but some good chances weren't taken and a Gregory Tade goal gave Forfar a big lift with 20 minutes to go.

Cowden's composure collapsed and it was no big surprise when ex-Central Parker Darren Gribben was subbed on and belted home the equaliser with his first touch of the ball.

The game was now wide open and 15-year-old striker Grant Manzie was handed his senior debut as Cowden went all out for a winner.

It eventually arrived at the last gasp when Liam Buchanan's persistence enabled him to send over an inviting cross which Morgaro Gomis gleefully headed into the net.

This dramatic victory enabled Cowden to retain fifth place, five points off a promotion play-off spot and, just as important, four points above the relgation play-off zone.

Derby defeat

Brian Welsh got off to an unhappy start as the new boss of the Blue Brazil when Raith Rovers took revenge for their earlier derby drubbing by winning 2-1at Central Park on Saturday.

Once again Cowden failed to take their chances in front of a season-best crowd  of 1487 while poor defending allowed Raith to score their first win under ex-Central Park gaffer Gary Kirk.

There was even worse news for Cowden when star man Markus Paatelainen was taken to hospital after a clash with a Raith defender.

After an early scare, Cowden almost took the lead with a superb looping header from Pat Clarke but Raith keeper Brown saved brilliantly.

Then they had a golden opportunity to open the scoring just before the interval when Liam Buchanan raced through unchallenged on Brown but sliced his effort wide of the target.

Former Cowden cult hero Armand Oné broke the deadlock after 62 minutes with a near-post glancing header after the Blue Brazil had gifted possession in their own half.

It took Cowden just two minutes to get back on level terms. Martyn Fotheringham, who had replaced Margaro Gomis at the interval, released Laurie Ellis on the left wing with a precision pass and the resultant cross was driven into the net by ex-Raith man Pat Clarke.

Cowden skipper Innes Ritchie was unlucky to see his header from a corner kick bounce off the bar as his side pressed for the winner.

Unfortunately, poor defensive work allowed Hjalmar Thorarinsson a free header at the other end and Rovers regained the upper hand with 17 minutes to play.

Having used all three subs, Cowden were forced to finish the match with just ten men after Markus Paatelainen was injured in a collision with a Raith defender.

Before referee Martin Sproule stopped play, Cowden almost grabbed a dramatic equaliser when Martyn Fotheringham side-footed a Scott Dalziel cross goalwards but Brown clawed the ball to safety.

Brian Welsh is new Blue Brazil boss

Former Hibs, Dundee United and Cowden star BrianWelsh has been named as the new boss of the Blue Brazil.

Championship-winning manager Mixu Paatelainen resigned  to take charge of Turku in his Finnish homeland a fortnight ago and since then coaches Michael Renwick and Steve McLeish have taken charge of the Cowden squad.

Now the Central Park directors have decided to hand the reins over to Welsh, who has supervised the widely-acclaimed Cowden youth development programme in recent seasons.

New boss Welsh faces a baptism of fire as his first game in charge is the Fife derby against Raith Rovers at Central Park on Saturday.  

Fans tribute to Mixu

Cowden fans were absolutely stunned by manager Mixu Paatelainen's shock resignation before the match against Ayr United at Central Park on Saturday.

The former Finnish internationalist steered the Blue Brazil to their first title success for 67 years when the Third Division championship trophy arrived at Central Park in April.

Many fans rate Mixu as the best-ever Cowden manager and there is no doubt the popular figure will be sorely missed at Central Park.

Web sites have been swamped with tributes from Blue Brazilians keen to thank Mixu for his outstanding achievements in a memorable year at the club.

Stirling share points

After a blank day at Stranraer, the Blue Brazil bounced back to earn a well-deserved 2-2 draw against second-placed Stirling Albion in front of 693 fans at Central Park on Saturday.

All the goals came in an entertaining first half, starting with an extremely soft penalty awarded against Innes Ritchie after only eight minutes.

Chris Aitken duly despatched the dubious award but Cowden soon fought back in the best possible way by netting twice inside a minute.

Firstly Markus Paatelainen produced a textbook downward header from a Martyn Fotheringham corner which eluded keeper Myles Hogarth and his defence.

Then Fotheringham went one better, finding Pat Clarke with an accurate pass and then being in the right place to accept an inspired cutback and drive it low into the corner of the net.

Albion were level before the half-hour mark when they were gifted possession after Paatelainen and Gomis collided in midfield and the through ball was rattled into the net by Colin Cramb.

By contrast, the second period was a bit of a slog but there were scoring chances  at both ends, Davie Orr in the Cowden goal making a couple of great saves.

The Blue Brazil's best chances both fell to top scorer Pat Clarke and he beat keeper Hogarth all ends up only to see his efforts agonisingly go over the bar.

Cowden are now in fourth place after the first round of fixtures and could get back to winning form when they visit Alloa on October 14.

Buy your badge of honour

Now available from the Cowdenbeath Supporters Club - a unique souvenir of last season's championship success!  You saw the match, you cheered the open topped bus, you saw the flag raised, and you read the book - now wear the Badge with pride!

Following on from Cowdenbeath's historic and memorable 3rd Division title win last season, Cowdenbeath Supporters Club commissioned a commemorative badge to be struck in honour of this success. 

These badges are now available and will be on sale from this Saturday.  It is recommended fans get their badge as soon as possible as it is expected that demand will be brisk and this is a strictly limited edition badge. 

This attractive 1"/25mm diameter badge is circular in shape.  It boasts a royal blue rim which bears the legends 'Cowdenbeath FC' at the top and 'Div. 3 Champions 2005-06' at the foot inscribed in silver.  Separating the two legends are two small black diamond logos commemorating the mining roots of the town and the club formed over 125 years ago which proudly carries the nickname 'the Miners'. 

The centre section of the badge has a silver background acknowledging the silverware Cowden carried off last season.   At the top is a gold/yellow coloured trophy.  The gold denoting Cowden's 'gold medal' achievement of last season whilst yellow of course is the Blue Brazil's away colour and a link with the famous Brazil jersey.  On the left is a Finnish flag which represents the Paatelainen contribution to our success.  On the  right is a Scottish saltire representing the  Scottish League Championship flag which now flies proudly at Central Park.  Both flags of course bear the club colours. 

At the bottom of the centre section is the motto in blue lettering 'Stent Nae Stent'.  This is the Scots motto of the community and Burgh of Cowdenbeath and means 'shirk no task' or 'always give your best'.  It acknowledges that hard work and giving of your best brings just reward as it did for Cowdenbeath FC last season. 

The badges are priced at £3.50 and will be on sale from Supporters Club Treasurer David Allan at Saturday's match and thereafter. 

Orders by post can be sent to David at 41 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline Fife, KY12 7UR (e-mail daallan6754@aol.com) - Cheques payable to Cowdenbeath  Football Supporters Club and please add 40p to cover p&p. 

Cowden lose second place

After the Blue Brazil failed to beat a ten-man team for the second week in succession they will be hoping to get back amongst the goals when Stirling Albion visit Central Park on Saturday.

Last week's trip to Stranraer was billed as the game where League's best attack met the League's worst defence but Cowden failed to shine and left Stair Park on the wrong end of a 1-0 scoreline.

It was the first time in over six months that Cowden had failed to score in a League game and manager Mixu Paatelainen will have his strikers fired up to ensure there isn't a repeat on Saturday.

Stirling, however, are on the crest of a wave after a seven-match unbeaten run in the League which has seen them surge into second spot and they will be seekimg revenge for their 4-0 Challenge Cup drubbing at Central Park last month. 

Victory for Cowden would enable them to regain second place behind League leaders Morton and - as always - Mixu's men will be having a go.

Cowden fail to clinch it

The Blue Brazil had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Station Park after missing a pile of chances against bottom club Forfar Athletic on Saturday.

The Loons should have been buried before the interval as Cowden ripped them apart at set-pieces but they survived and then grabbed a late equaliser when down to ten men.

Results elsewhere meant Cowden still retain second spot behind league leaders Morton but it was definitely a case of two points chucked away at Forfar.

Gary Smith, Scott Dalziel and Dougie Hill were restored to Mixu Paatelainen's team sheet and there was further good news with Morgaro Gomis and Laurie Ellis able to make the bench.

Cowden were in command from the kick-off and only top-class saves by Premier loan keeper Sean Murdoch kept out efforts from the likes of Gary Fusco and Martyn Fotheringham.

Corner after corner created mayhem in the Forfar goalmouth but the scoreline remained blank, thanks to the woodwork which stopped headers from Innes Ritchie and Dougie Hill.

Thankfully, justice was done before the interval when Cowden went ahead with a peach of a goal as Liam Buchanan swept the ball into the net after being set up by Scott Dalziel.

Cowden continued on top after the break but slick build-up play was too often ruined by the quality of the final cross which ranged from poor to awful.

However it seemed the three points were destined for Central Park, especially after Forfar were reduced to ten men when Gary Lynn was ordered off.

But it was not to be as seconds after Murdoch had blocked a Buchanan drive the ball was belted up the park and Barry Donald headed home the equaliser.

A sickener for the Blue Brazil and their big travelling support but second place in the Second Division isn't a disaster.

Now the League's best attack meets the League's worst defence when Cowden travel to Stranraer on Saturday. Should be interesting!

Cowden fight in vain

The Blue Brazil failed to halt Morton's unbeaten run and the League leaders ran out 2-1 winners in the top-of-the-table clash before 1315 fans at Central Park on Saturday.

Cowden at least had the satisfaction of becoming the first team to score against the Greenock side in the League this season but it wasn't enough to halt Morton's march.

Although long-term injured Davie Hay and Dougie Hill were fit enough to join trialist Scott Bannerman on the bench, Cowden were dealt a triple blow when injuries ruled out star man Morgaro Gomis and experienced defenders Gary Smith and Laurie Ellis.

In a torrid first half dominated by Morton, Cowden deserted their normal slick-passing game in favour of lumping the ball skywards - usually in the direction of little Liam Buchanan!

After a succession of corners and a couple of cracking saves by keeper Davie Orr, Morton deservedly went ahead through a Stuart Greachen header.

What Cowden didn't deserve was to lose another goal before half-time but a series of mistakes and miskicks allowed McAllister to double Morton's advantage.

Thankfully, Cowden put up a much better display after the interval, inspired by an early goal from Markus Paatelainen.

For once the ball was played to feet, starting with a defence-splitting pass from Martyn Fotheringham to Liam Buchanan whose perfect low drive across the goalmouth was stabbed home by Paatelainen at the second attempt.

Morton were clearly rattled and started time-wasting with a full 30 minutes to go but held on to take all three points despite a grandstand finish by the Blue Brazil when they were unlucky not to snatch an equaliser.

Cowden will now try to bounce back and retain their second place when they travel to Forfar on Saturday.

The Cowdenbeath Supporters Club bus will depart for this match from Central Park on Saturday at 12.15pm.   Standard fare is £9 with a Family fare of £16 and OAPs/Junior Supporters Club members fare of £7.    Non-members pay an extra £2 over the advertised fares.  Places on the buses can be reserved by contacting David Allan on daallan6754@aol.com or on 01383 724000'

Cowden in command

The Blue Brazil once again showed their great ability to bounce back from a midweek defeat by scoring a stunning 4-2 victory over Peterhead at Central Park on Sunday.

Cowden are the highest-scoring team in Britain this season and their latest demolition job sets them up perfectly for the visit of Second Division leaders Morton to Central Park on Saturday, the Cappielow side having yet to concede a League goal.

Manager Mixu Paatelainen recalled Gary Fusco, Innes Ritchie and Liam Buchanan to his side but Gary Smith was forced to sit out with a minor strain.

The Cowden goal machine went into top gear right away as a glorious pass released Liam Buchanan down the right wing after ten minutes and his textbook low cutback was swept into the net by top scorer Pat Clarke. 

Cowdenn made it 2-0 after half an hour with another stunning strike, Markus Paatelainen cleverly rolling the ball back into the path of Morgaro Gomis who floated a superb effort past keeper  Mathers from nearly 30 yards.

Although Cowden should have now been in cruise control, skipper Innes Ritchie commited a couple of fouls which enabled the visitors to draw level before the interval, Hegarty drilling home a free-kick and Linn converting a penalty.

Cowden should have restored their two-goal advantage within a few minutes of the restart as brilliant football carved open the Peterhead defence on several occasions but the final chances were either missed or blocked.

Martyn Fotheringham's free-kick had been a feature of the match and it was no surprise when one of them led to Cowden going ahead again on the hour mark.

Innes Ritchie's header had goal written all over it but Mathers somehow blocked it before justice was done when Liam Buchanan blasted the ball over the line in the scramble.

Morgaro Gomis went off with a groin strain - and an ovation from the 588 crowd - but Mixu as usual went for more goals by subbing on young striker Scott Dalziel.

His boldness was rewarded when Scott coolly side-stepped the keeper and rolled in Cowden's fourth following magnificent play by Pat Clarke.

So the Blue Brazil bandwagon rolls on, having already netted 28 goals and the promise of more to come. In fact, many many more. 

Fightback is in vain

Cowden crashed out of the Challenge Cup at Cappielow on Tuesday night but only after a magnificent fightback narrowly failed and Morton edged through on a 3-2 scoreline.

First-team regulars Gary Smith, Innes Ritchie, Gary Fusco, Scott Dalziel and Liam Buchanan were all rested from manager Mixu Paatelainen's starting line-up which saw Mark Baxter and Laurie Ellis put forward to midfield and Martyn Fotheringham drafted in as a centre-forward.

Unfortunately the Blue Brazil were a shambles in an error-riddled opening 15 minutes and they quickly went 3-0 behind - although it should be pointed out that the mistakes were by no means confined to the new players.

However full credit to the team for battling away until the interval when they received nothing but encouragement from the travelling support.

The fans loyalty was rewarded soon after the break when young Pat Clarke confidently slid home his seventh goal of the season.

Morton quickly realised they now had a fight on their hands and even started a bit of time-wasting. Then they were handed a huge bonus when their keeper caught the ball outside his area to deny the Blue Brazil a certain goal.

Incredibly ref Colum - already a legend among Cowden fans for a previous card--waving farce at Stenhousemuir last season - bottled the automatic red card decision and opted for a yellow instead.

Martyn Fotheringham bulleted home the free-kick to make it 3-2 but despite their untiring efforts they couldn't conjure up an equaliser.

And there was further disappointment when both Laurie Ellis and Graham Guy limped off injured and looking very doubtful for the visit of Peterhead on Sunday afternoon, kick-off 3pm.

Junior commitee is elected

Cowdenbeath Supporters Club is pleased to confirm that after a well-attended meeting at Central Park the new Cowdenbeath Junior Supporters Club was established.

Manager Mixu Paatelainen and Supporters Club officials came along to help out as the new Supporters Club elected its committee. 

After a keenly contested election where the candidates made their manifesto commitments and sales pitches the following committee members were duly elected.  Robbie Dair (Chairman), Dawn Bett (Secretary), Alan Dow (Treasurer), Scott Duthie, Stuart Duthie, David Hershaw and Grant Allan.

Late double sinks local rivals

A fabulous Cowden support approaching the 1000 mark went wild with joy as the Blue Brazil blew away derby rivals  Raith Rovers at Stark's Park on Saturday.

The final 3-1 scoreline was no more than Mixu Paatelainen's men deserved after they totally outclassed a Raith team introduced by the match announcer as 'Fife's finest!'

The start was delayed to let the crowd in but Cowden were on fire from the kick-off and it was no surprise when Pat Clarke blasted them into an early lead following a corner taken by the impressive Morgaro Gomis.

Raith were swamped as the Cowden goal hunt started in earnest and time after time the massive Central Park support were on their feet to celebrate only to see the woodwork and goal-line clearances rescue Raith.

Cowden should have been 5-0 ahead by the interval and inevitably after the break were caught by a sucker punch when keeper Davie Orr spilled a cross and Raith sub Manson slid home the equaliser. The young keeper redeemed himself with a brilliant block after Mark Baxter carved open his own defence.

Graham Guy and Kevin McBride came on for Morgaro Gomis and Scott Dalziel who had run themselves to a standstill and Cowden put in a storming finish to clinch the victory they richly deserved. 

Firstly, a well-directed Gary Smith free-kick was nodded on by skipper Innes Ritchie to Markus Paatelainen whose delicate flick crept just inside the post to spark off crazy celebrations in the stand behind the goal.

As the Raith fans poured into Pratt Street Cowden - as always - went for more goals and the icing on the cake came in the last minute.

Sublimely, it came from two players freed by Raith in the summer as Laurie Ellis sent in a perfect near-post delivery which Pat Clarke neatly turned into the net.

It's a long, long time since Cowden fans were able to sing "Are you East Fife in disguise?" at Stark's Park and Mixu's men seem more than capable of retaining their Second Division status with their attractive attacking game allied to solid defence and inspirational midfield play.

Cowden are now off to Greenock to face Morton on Challenge Cup business on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.45pm.

Supporters Club bus will leave Central Park at 5.30pm with a standard fare of £10, a family fare of £16 and OAPs/Under-12's fare of £8. Non-members pay an extra £2 over the advertised fares.

Falkirk ease through

Cowden found Premier League Falkirk too hot to handle at Central Park on Tuesday night in a CIS Cup tie but the final 5-0 scoreline definitely flattered the Bairns.

The Blue Brazil competed well for a fair part of the game but three late goals produced a dismal exit from the Cup.

Cowden fans in the 1530 crowd were stunned to see skipper Innes Ritchie, top scorer Pat Clarke as well as fellow striker Scott Dalziel and defender Laurie Ellis all missing from manager Mixu Paatelainen's starting line-up.

There was an even bigger shock when news spead that the club's longest-serving player Iain Mauchlen had moved to junior side Kelty Hearts after 135 appearances in a Cowden jersey.

Falkirk eventually won in a canter but the game could so easily taken a different direction. For instance Morgaro Gomis - the best player on the park - and Markus Paatelainen carved open the Falkirk defence but the Finn's first-timer curled round the wrong side of the post with the scoresheet still blank.

Markus had an even better chance at 0-2 in the second half with just the keeper to beat but once again his effort skimmed past the post.

So after an undefeated run stretching back five months, the Blue Brazil have lost twice in four days but the growing support is totally confident Cowden will be back to winning ways when they travel to meet local rivals Raith Rovers on Saturday.

Then its off to Greenock to face Morton on Challenge Cup business on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.45pm

First defeat in five months

The Cowden juggernaut was finally derailed when the Blue Brazil went down 3-1 against Brechin City at Central Park.

Cowden made a solid start to the match and a strike from Liam Buchanan just before the interval raised a huge cheer from the large home support among the impressive crowd of 707 spectators.

But the game was to turn on its head within five minutes of the restart. Goals from former Dundee Utd stars Paddy Connolly and Grant Johnson edged City in front while Cowden struck the post through Markus Paatelainen and spurned a great chance to score when Laurie Ellis blasted over from close range.

Cowden never recovered from this setback and their attempts to get back into the game were snuffed out by the Brechin defence - ironically marshalled by former Blue Brazil promotion heroes Davie White and John Ward.

Connolly added a third for the visitors and Cowden have now lost their position at the top of the table.

Premier League Falkirk visit Central Park on Tuesday evening (7-30) to contest a CIS Cup tie. The Bairns have made a fine start to the season and the match is sure to arouse great interest.

Blue Brazil volunteer army

Calling Fife's finest fans - here's everyone's chance to prove their commitment to the Cowden cause. Chairman Gordon McDougall has asked if fans would be prepared to help the club e.g in tidying up Central Park, undertaking repairs and improvements, painting, etc on a volunteer basis.

The Supporters Club has agreed to ask for volunteers names and then will go back to Gordon to see how the fans could help.

Your club needs you - please stand up and be counted. E-mail daallan6754@aol.com if you wish to be put on the list.  

Meet the manager

Cowden's Supporters Club have arranged a Meet the Manager evening with Mixu Paatelainen on Monday, 31st July, at 7.30 (venue to be confirmed). Get along to hear Mixu's thoughts on the eve of the new season.