Category: CLUB NEWS

Vale in Lowland League Next Season

The Board of the Lowland League have confirmed that the 2019/2020 season is over and no more games will be played due to COVID-19. The Board have declared Kelty Hearts champions and confirmed that there will be no relegation this season.

Manager Chris Anderson said “We believe this is the correct decision and I am now looking to forward to start planning for next season’s Lowland League campaign.”

Vice Chairman John Anderson said “We would like to congratulate Kelty Hearts on a successful campaign and deserved recognition as Champions. The decision not to relegate any team based on a incomplete season is the right call, and we now look to draw a line under this season and look forward to a successful 2020/2021 season in the Lowland League.”

Ger Rossi: Captain Ready for Next Season

After a difficult and challenging few weeks we are delighted to announce that club captain Ger Rossi has boosted spirits by agreeing to extend his stay at Victoria Park for next season.

We caught up with the Captain, who had a little bit of time on his hands. Ger talks us through the season so far and what impact Covid-19 has had on not just himself but the wider footballing community.

“Firstly I’d just like to thank the club. It’s no small secret that a team of the Vales stature are constantly in a fight for survival both on and off the park. The Chairman and his committee however have stood by the players throughout this season when on the playing front we’ve probably not given them enough back in return.

So, when Ando approached me a few days ago to get my thoughts on next season, there was never any doubt in my mind, I was delighted to sign.

I believe that in moments like we are in just now it puts a lot of things into perspective. I’ve often bored the younger boys to tears preaching to them that they have to try and play at the highest possible level they can for as long as they can. I think as you get a little older it’s a lot easier to see that clearly and during this lockdown it certainly hits home just how much we all take the game for granted at times. The Manager is constantly trying to move mountains along with John Brogan for this club. I believe everyone at Victoria Park is doing their best to make this club as competitive as possible both on and off the field. Although things are a little in the air at the moment, I wanted to be a part of that.”

Rounding up his time so far at the Vale Ger said this:

“Vale’s record of survival in this Lowland league has been incredible and I don’t think Ando gets enough credit for what he’s managed to achieve. When you look at some of the names that have dropped down to play in this league you start to understand the task in hand and the financial strength you are up against. It’s no doubt great for the Scottish game and It certainly boosts the profile of the league but for the smaller sides it’s near impossible to compete with. Again, I think for the footballing enthusiasts it’s something locally that we tend to forget, just what it is we have on our doorstep.”

Ger finally left us with his thoughts on the Corona Virus epidemic that has put a stop not only to our football season but to our normal way of life.

“It’s been tough for everyone and I don’t say that lightly. The shutdown as frustrating as it has been was of course the right decision. As much as football for the majority of us is indeed life, protecting and saving lives literally is all that matters just now. Personally, it’s been a really tough period. I’ve witnessed first-hand the unbelievable work our NHS carry out on a daily basis. The sacrifices that all on our front line are making is incredible. So, in return if all we are being asked to do is that of social distancing and staying in the house, we have to make sure we respond and carry out their message. The sooner we all do this the quicker things will get back to normal.

Where does the season go from here? I think null and void across the board. Bring teams up that were in promotion hunts and don’t punish those who are at the bottom with everything still to play for. Have a season where it works itself out. More to play for and in turn it will certainly bring plenty of excitement.”

Floodlights Update: Can you chip in?

We are making significant progress with the floodlight project – a requirement to keep our SFA license. The planning and building warrant applications have been submitted, and a tender process has been undertaken. The preferred bidder will be able to start works after the government restrictions are lifted. 

We have secured financial assistance from Scottish Borders Council. However the club is still contributing financially and thus far has paid out £2,000 on planning and professional fees alone. This is before any works take place. 

Can you chip in?

We all know the financial restraints the current situation has had on football clubs – the Vale have lost five home matches with all the income that generates. 

So we launching a Floodlight Financial Appeal, firstly to help the club fund the fees, and second, to contribute to the works itself. 

We know things are difficult for all at the moment, but if anyone can contribute it would be greatly appreciated. No amount is too small (or large). Maybe you would have come to a home game and would like to donate what you would have paid at the gate? Maybe you didn’t get a chance to go the pub for a few pints: could you donate that fiver you would have spent on a few pints?

If everyone chipped in a small amount, it would soon add up.

Donation page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/vale-of-leithen-fc-floodlights-appeal?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1

All I want is a performance

Manager Chris Anderson has given us an insight into tomorrow big game vs Dalbeattie Star, a team only three points ahead of the Vale.
“All I want is the same level of performance, effort and desire we showed last week. I thought we were excellent last week and as a manager when the full time whistle goes all you want is to look at the players eyes and to feel they’ve given you their absolute all. 
Everyone has written us off as relegated already but I’ve been in football a long time and football can turn in your favour at anytime. I believe in the players we have and on our day we can match anyone. 
It will be a tough game but we are at home. Hopefully with a good support it will push the players to perform. Win lose or draw i just want them to step up and leave nothing at the side. It’s a game to look forward to that’s for sure.”