New managerial set ups, new faces and new signings, it’s the start of a new beginning on Saturday, as a new football season is set to kick-off.
In the Scottish Lowland League Gala Fairydean Rovers hit the road to take on Preston Athletic in their opening encounter.
Glancing ahead to the game, Gala manager Steven Noble said: “We played Preston in our first match last season and got a win so I will be hoping that we will get the same result this time.
“Preston have a new manager and I believe he has signed some young ex pro’s and they could be a handful. However, we have some good promising young players in our squad and we will be using this game as a platform to build on.”
Back in the Borders Selkirk entertain Edinburgh University at Yarrow Park and looking ahead to the forthcoming season team boss Steve Forrest said: “At the moment we have a squad of 23 which includes some of last season’s side and new signings.
“Our defence has been completely rebuilt as only Jamie Newman and Jamie Piper remain. We have brought in new young players such as Murray Christie, Michael Callin and Kayde Reynolds as well as brother’s Greg and Jack Hay, who are both Border boys.
“I think we have a good strong squad.”
Under the guidance of new manager Ian Little, Vale of Leithen travel to face Dalbeattie Star.
Peebles Rovers clash with Hawick Royal Albert in an East of Scotland Qualifying Cup encounter at Whitestone Park.
Apart from having a new manager at the helm in ex Falkirk and Bonnyrigg Rose goalkeeper Mike Atai, Hawick have newcomers in abundance in their squad.
Amongst the many new boys to have arrived at Albert Park is defender Mark McEwen who said of matters: “East of Scotland League football is completely new to me as I have played ten years in the juniors apart from having a spell at Cowdenbeath.
“It’s a good set up at Hawick and I am looking forward to the season starting.”
Kelso United are away to Stirling University in another Qualifying Cup meeting.