Where to begin….the dreams of Hampden may be over but the memories will long live on. If anyone had said to us last season when we got licensed to play in the Scottish Cup, that in our second campaign, we would be facing disappointment at the prospect of missing out on the Quarter Finals…we would be saying “pull the other one”.
Selling out Recreation Park to 3000 fans against Aberdeen was nothing short of extra special for everyone involved with the Club, but to go on and defeat them and be written into the footballing archives, was just dreamlike. Now, whilst the result may have been a surprise to many, to us involved we already knew we had something special in Michael, his backroom team and playing squad, we just weren’t aware of how special. The belief and closeness between the group extends well beyond the dressing room, as players, coaches and committee all blend as one.
The togetherness and support shown by our fans, community and local businesses has been remarkable and has really brought everyone together and for that we cannot begin to tell you how immensely proud we all are.
Both games were sold out for hospitality, programme advertising and match sponsorship. Some even taking new pitchside boards – so thank-you to all our existing and new sponsors for getting behind us on this journey 💙
A huge thanks must go to QTS Group for the new infrastructure that was required to support the games of that magnitude. The timescales and ever changing work schedule were not favourable, but nothing was ever an issue for your team. We are very fortunate to have such a devoted main sponsor.
We can’t of course forget Keith Stewart, Events and Resilience Manager, alongside his team at East Ayrshire Council, goes without saying these games wouldn’t have happened without all his experience, hard work and long hours with the Safety Advisory Group (SAG). A huge learning curve for us all, but one which has equipped us all better for future big games (which we hope there are many!)
And a thanks to everyone else who supported us in our quest to have the two biggest sell-outs in our Club’ history.
As, the last of the temporary erected scaffolding towers and grandstand is dismantled, Recreation Park looks rather funny in their absence, given they have furnished the place for the last eight weeks. But as we look to the future, we can now share with you that there are plans for new permanent infrastructure, in the form of a 300 seater covered stand, complete with disabled section and incorporating both home/away technical areas.
The Club feel that following construction of the stand, this can be looked on as a legacy with fond memories of this years cup run for our supporters and community.
Stay peeled for other big news in the coming week(s), as we look to really kick on now. We are back at home to Glenafton this coming Saturday, so would love to see as many faces back doon the brae’, after all £8/£4 for the football on offer is exceptional value.
Togetherness, Love and Respect
Thanks, The Board