New Rovers deal for Ward

Albion Rovers boss James Ward has received the perfect wedding present after agreeing a new contract.

Ward, who gets hitched to fiancée Yvonne on Sunday, was appointed last summer and led the League 2 side on their best Scottish Cup run in 80 years when they reached the quarter-finals, coming within 12 minutes of defeating Rangers before losing in a replay.

Ward said: “I am delighted to get this sorted ahead of my big match at the weekend. We have had a good first season but would have liked to have been really pushing for promotion.

“We will look to do that in the next campaign and, in the meantime, I am preparing for East Stirling on Saturday and then a busy day on Sunday.”

Club chairman John Devlin said: “I am pleased to confirm that James will remain as manager for the 2014/15 season, with the board confirming his appointment at Cliftonhill on Monday night.

“Albion Rovers and our supporters have experienced a truly unforgettable run in this season’s Scottish Cup, which has provided some amazing footballing moments and has also delivered significant financial benefit to the club.

“By confirming the manager’s position at this early stage we intend to provide stability and continuity that will enable a constructive pre-season and strengthen our challenge for next season.”

While Ward is staying, two key figures in the recent history of Albion Rovers, directors Robert Watt and Frank Meade, have decided to retire at the end of the season.

Devlin added: “Robert and Frank both served this club as Directors and Chairman with great distinction. They stepped forward almost a decade ago when Albion Rovers was in a precarious financial position and were instrumental in establishing a solid foundation for the ongoing operation of the club.

“During their stewardship, the club has stabilised and has experienced some real highlights, including the promotion season in 2010/11. They both leave the board with the club in a far healthier condition than when they joined it.

“On a personal basis, I have worked as a board colleague with them for the past six years and would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their very considerable contribution. They both deserve our appreciation and a well-earned rest.”