Nothing shines brighter than a Diamond, so here’s Emma Quigley to give us the lowdown on Airdrieonians.
How would you assess your club's 22/23 season so far?
It’s been a bit of an up and down season so far, which was probably to be expected after the incredible run we had last season, which ultimately ended in disappointment.
We’ve brought in Rhys McCabe as manager, supported by Callum Fordyce who have the additional challenge of both managing the team and having to play.
We had a strong start to the season, and some excellent performances from the team in August/September. However, injuries and (some would argue) a lack of squad depth, has led to some tough results both at home and away.
League One is an incredibly tough league and you never take any result for granted, anyone can beat anyone on their day. Hoping we can find more consistency heading into December and maybe bring in a few new faces in January to help us kick on.
Main Man: Favourite current player and why
They’re all my favourites! But at the moment I’m really enjoying seeing Lewis Jamieson (on loan from St Mirren) start to find his form and his scoring boots. His recent hat-trick against Montrose was a joy to watch. I always love seeing young players improve and grow in confidence.
What is your earliest memory supporting your club?
I have two that stick out. My first ever game was an away tie at Somerset Park, I can’t remember if I nagged my Dad to go, or if my Mum just wanted some peace from me.
The game doesn’t hold any memories, but I do remember my Dad turning ‘round to find that I managed to climb my way up the floodlight that comes down through the roof of the away terracing. I was told to get down pronto…
Second is when we won promotion to the Premier League at Stark's Park in 1991, again don’t remember much about the game but I do remember a kind steward giving us the nod to join the pitch invasion that was underway at the time. Jubilant moments on my dad’s shoulders celebrating.
Explain the nickname
If you know the kit, the nickname makes sense. The Diamonds. We were originally known as the Waysiders, but with the kit came the name we know today.
Almost Famous – What is your club best known for?
The Diamond, cup runs and Broomfield.
Everyone knows the kit, the red and white diamond. I think it’s one of the best in football and instantly recognisable. It’s so important to Airdrie fans.
Whenever I talk to fans, a lot of them mention the cup runs. Although I started going to the odd game before the 1990s, it was Alex MacDonald that cemented my love of the club. I was fortunate to be at both the ‘92 and ‘95 finals. I didn’t make European games against Sparta Prague, but I know for many Airdrie fans, it’s an extremely proud moment for them and one of the highlights of their time following the club alongside the Texaco Cup adventures.
Finally Broomfield; whether you loved or hated the place, you couldn’t forget the ground. I managed to sneak in when it finally closed, lying in the centre circle and saying my own little goodbye.
Can you tell us one interesting fact about your club which other fans may not know?
The world's first penalty kick was awarded to Airdrieonians in 1891 at Mavisbank Park.
Greatest Gaffer: Your favourite/most loved boss watching your team
As I’ve said Alex Macdonald was my favourite boss in my time as a supporter. When I look back now at the time he managed the club and the achievements, is it any wonder I fell in love with following Airdrie? Incredible memories, incredible games. Thank you Alex!
Who would make your ultimate all-time 5-a-side team?
A hard one, I asked my dad about this and he’s seen some players in his time and his would be totally different.
This is just my choice from who I’ve seen or have an appreciation for.
- John Martin
- Jimmy Sandison
- Paul Lovering
- David Fernandez
- Owen Coyle
What is your all-time favourite match?
After the play-offs last season, the semi-final against Montrose has raced to the top of that list.
I have never seen a game of football like and not sure I ever will again. From going into the second leg 1-0 down, to being 3-0 down on aggregate at half-time. I though we were out, I didn’t see a way back. But Ian Murray and the players just never gave up and all hell broke loose.
It’s a struggle now to even get my head around it. But it ended up finishing 6-5 Airdrie on aggregate with a second-half performance that will live long in the memory. It was utter bedlam, sheer joy, a Callum Smith hat-trick and just everything that makes you love the game packed into an incredible two hours of play.
What makes your club special to YOU?
To me Airdrie is family. I’m not from the town but my dad is, my grandparents lived there, and we still have family in the town. You could see the flag flying at the old ground from the back steps and the new ground is just a short walk over the hill.
I grew up with my dad always going to the football and eventually I decided I wanted to see what it was all about. I’m not sure he knew if I would take to it or not, but there’s now a consensus in my family that I’m the worst out the lot of them. Doesn’t matter the form, the distance, or the weather,
I’m always first in the group chat every week with ‘Saturday, who is coming!?’.
You can follow Airdrie’s progress every week in our SPFL Lower League Round Up – watch the latest edition now!
