Third-placed Queen’s Park head for Annan this weekend looking to build on an impressive record that has seen the Spiders taste defeat only once in their past 11 games.
The last time they visited Galabank, the Hampden side won 1-0 and that success was their only one among three defeats in their first four games in 2014/15.
However, as well as getting his side their first points of the season, head coach Gus MacPherson reckons that the victory over Annan was hugely important as it confirmed to his much-changed squad that they could win in senior football.
MacPherson said: “When you look back at things, our win down there at the start of the season is hugely important. It gave our new-look squad belief that they could compete and win at this level.
“When you consider it was our only win in the first four games it was really significant as doubts could have crept in when you have 14/15 players new to senior football.
“It was not an easy success as it was a really tight game, as was the goalless draw between the sides at the Excelsior Stadium.
“Mind you, all the games in this league are tight and usually they are won by the sides that have a little bit extra in terms of taking their chances and defending stoutly.
“I had never been involved in a game with Annan before I took the Queen’s job and I have to say it is a fantastic set-up down there. I would expect a lot of clubs up and down the country to have a look at Annan in terms of their involvement in the local community as they are a great example.
“The first-team manager Jim Chapman also has a significant role in the youth and community and he puts in a great deal of time and effort into his role.
“They got to the play-offs last season, which was a great achievement, and will be out to do the same in this campaign. They should get a lift if Kenny MacKay is able to play a significant part after his injury.
“Kenny is a player I would think Jim would say he has missed this season. He scored frequently last in their last campaign and any side misses a player that can do that for you. He required an operation on his knee and it speaks volumes for the loyalty Annan show to their players by getting the surgery done quickly.
“It also shows that he is a key player and having him back in the run-in to the season could be significant for Annan. Having Andy Mitchell back in their defence is another good signing for them and he obviously must have enjoyed his time there to return so quickly from Southport.
“We are going there with a full squad and I have selection problems of the right kind in defence and attack. Shaun Rooney and Bryan Wharton are available after suspension for defensive roles and, up front, Jordan Moore is looking to add to the two goals he scored on his debut.
“Ryan Hynes, who we brought in recently from Drumchapel Amateurs, hit a hat-trick in an under-20 game on Monday night and youngster Billy Mortimer also scored so there is a great competition for places which can only be a good thing. It keeps everyone on their toes.”
Craig Stewart
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