Club Search

Type of Club Member:

Sporting Club:

Sponsors:

Football (Men)

-------------------------------------------------2009/2010------------------------------------------------

SUPPORT NEEDED!

The Men's 1st XI Football team will begin their Scottish Cup campaign on the 26th of September against Vale of Leithen.

The match kicks-off at 15:00 on Saturday down at Peffermill and the team would really appreciate any support they receive.

Cowdenbeath12

-------------------------------------------------2008/2009------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------ 2007/2008 -----------------------------------------------

Edinburgh University AFC Vs. Devronvale FC - Scottish Cup, 2nd Round

90 Minutes From Glory

“Hazeldine muscles past his man, keeper dashes off his line, to no avail, Hazeldine has guided the ball past him, Edinburgh University 2, Keith 0.”

Edinburgh University Association Football Club are once again 90 minutes from a land never reached before, the 3rd round of the Tennents Scottish Cup. After the completion of the 1st round ties last Saturday and the draw for the second round this previous Monday at Galabank, Annan, EUAFC where drawn against Deveronvale, to be played at Peffermill on Saturday 27th October, Kick Off at 14:30. With a slight change in the staging of the rounds this year meaning that the SPL big boys don’t enter till the 4th round, the games have been brought forward but a win against Devronvale will lead to the possibility of a big tie against 1st division teams Partick Thistle, Clyde, Queen of the South or most tantalising of all Livingston. Last year roared on by a crowd of 1000, EUAFC defeated Keith in the 1st round of this competition and they will need such support to achieve this sort of victory again.

So who are Deveronvale?
Hailing from Banff in Aberdeenshire and play in the same league as Keith, the Highland League. They will provide formidable opposition and are as stern test that Keith. Last season after defeating Fraserborough and 3rd Division side Elgin City they were eventually defeated in the 4th round by Partick Thistle. This season they sit 4th in the Highland League, winning 3 of their 4 games to date, winning their 1st round tie 5-0 at Wick Academy. Whilst you can pretty much bet your bottom dollar that Dougie Samuel will have his men thoroughly prepared for this tie, nothing will help his team to victory more than a large crowd down at Peffermill to roar the boys on. So set aside that date in your diary and show the same support that got the boys to Cowdenbeath last season.

Tickets are to be bought in advance costing £5 for Students and Concessions, £10 for adults. They are available from Irene in the Sports Union Office, 48 Pleasance. A free bus will run to Peffermill on the day departing George Sq at 1:15 and from Pollock Halls at 1:30.

(EUSU 07/10/07)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Scottish Cup, How We Got Here

Edinburgh University Football Club plays host to Highland League Deveronvale FC, in a Scottish Cup 2nd round tie, at the University of Edinburgh Peffermill playing fields on Saturday 27 October, kick-off 2.30 pm. As longstanding full members of the Scottish Football Association, both Edinburgh University FC (founded 1878) and Glasgow University FC (founded 1877) gain entry to the Scottish FA Cup. Since 1894 entry to the SFA Cup had to be earned through a Qualifying Cup competition and opportunities for the two Universities to play in the main competition have been limited.

Last season Edinburgh qualified for the main competition (winning through three Qualifying rounds) and hosted Highland Football League Keith FC in a first round tie. Over 800 spectators witnessed the University winning 2-1 in an exciting contest. The University was again well-supported in the second round tie, away against Scottish Second Division side Cowdenbeath FC, but their more experienced opponents ran out 5-1 winners.

With the approval of member clubs the SFA changed the format of the competition for 2007/08, removing the Qualifying format and with Scottish League clubs entering from round two onwards. In the first round proper Glasgow University drew a home tie with Highland League Buckie Thistle FC and lost narrowly 1-2. Edinburgh was fortunate to receive a bye in round one and drew a home tie with Highland League Deveronvale FC in round two. That match takes place on Saturday 27 October. Edinburgh will again be seeking to attract strong support from the students and staff of the University. Deveronvale, from Banff in the north east of Scotland, has been a very successful club in recent years, winning the Highland League in season 2005/06. Edinburgh has a talented squad and the experienced coaching team, led by Douglas Samuel, has taken the club strongly forward over the past five seasons.

Further information is available on the University website www.ed.ac.uk

(Simon Messenger, 23?10/2007)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scottish Cup
2nd Round

Double Barrelled Beck-Friis Edges Out Deveronvale

Two goals from Swedish Superstar Peder Beck-Friis and a late strike from Chris Woods saw Edinburgh University edge out Deveronvale in an at times tense cup tie, watched by 300 spectators at Peffermill, including many of the Universities top brass.

On a blustery day at Peffermill the game kicked off with Edinburgh attacking both the sun an the wind. In these conditions the team never got going, but where managing to hold the Banff side at bay. With a strong middle third battle ensuing, ‘Vale supporters thought they had the lead when a shot squeezed under the body of ‘Burgh keeper, Scott Bennett. Thankfully for Edinburgh, Scott managed to recover and stopped the ball on his line, much to the dismay and frustration of the Deveronvale fans who thought they had scored.

Just 4 minutes later, Edinburgh took the lead. The ball was knocked in from the right by Jack Beesley and our super Swede was their to knock a calm finish home from 12 yards out. 24 minutes gone, Edinburgh 1 – 0 Deveronvale.

Despite taking the lead, Edinburgh still had not settled and as this continued Deveronvale were never going to be easy. A long, wind assisted ball from Bryan Dugonski found ‘Vale’s runaway star man, Michael McKenzie wide on the left. He darted in and struck a fine 20 yard effort inside Bennett’s near post. 35 minutes gone, Edinburgh 1-1 Deveronvale.

Half time arrived with the score 1-1. This was at this time a fair reflection of the score, with Edinburgh just not looking at all comfortable.

Whatever he said at half time, its fair to say that Dougie Samuel earned his wages with his half time team talk. Edinburgh came racing out for the second half and within 4 minutes had scored again. The ball was whipped in from the left and a calm left foot at the back post belonging to that super Swede, Peder, stoked the ball home in the bottom corner from 7 yards out. 49 minutes gone, Edinburgh 2-1 Deveronvale.

Still though, ‘Vale where not going to let go of their cup dreams. As they pushed Edinburgh back and back they looked dangerous. Even more worryingly, the space up front was being used to good effect with chance after chance going begging. Edinburgh were pushed back, often with 7 men on the 18 yard line, last ditch challenges and blocks where all that protected the Edinburgh goal. Thankfully for Edinburgh, whenever they did get through a mixture of some top drawer goalkeeping from Scott Bennett (most notably from a deflected looping shot, somehow touched over his bar) and some woeful shooting from Deveronvale forwards, Edinburgh held fast.

In the 80th minute and awesome strike from Jack Beesley from a free kick seemed to be putting Edinburgh through when it was tipped onto the bar by Deveronvale keeper, James Blanchard, acrobatically reaching over his head. It was to be to no avail, as substitute Chris Woods drove home in stoppage time from 13 yards to secure victory for Edinburgh. 90 minutes gone, Edinburgh 3-1 Deveronvale.

This victory means Edinburgh are though to the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup and the draw is on Monday. Everyone has a theory about who they want with possible opponents ranging from Livingston to Pollok FC, the only certain news is that Edinburgh University are in the hat.

Final Score: Edinburgh University AFC 3
Deveronvale FC 1

Edinburgh Team:
1: Bennett (GK)
2: Fusco
3: Maxwell
4: Munro
5: Cathcart
6: Thompson
7: Beck-Friis (Sub 75mins)
8: Redman (Capt)
9:Hazeldine (Sub 85mins)
10: Beesley (Sub 85mins)
11: Cook

Subs: Harkness (GK), Hair (on 85mins), Woods (on 75mins) Hughes, Jones (on 85mins)

(Pictures & Match Report by James Pope, 26/10/2007)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cove Rangers Provide Edinburgh's Next Obstacle Between Them and Glory

Edinburgh University AFC face a trip to Cove Rangers in the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup, the winners of this tie will go into the 4th Round hat with dreams of a trip to Ibrox, Celtic Park or Tynecastle. Dougie Samuels will be marshalling his troops over the coming weeks with the aim and desire of making that 4th round draw, but who are the opposition they will be facing?

Cove Rangers are from just outside Aberdeen, playing at their home games at Allan Park. They are, like previous cup opponents Deveronvale and Keith members of the Highland Football League. Their form so far this season has been consistent in this league without setting the season alight. They have made this stage of the cup with a 5-0 away win at Brora Rangers in the 1st round and 3-0 victory over Keith at Allan Park in the 2nd round.

The university has recently confirmed that they will be providing FREE coach transport to the match to Edinburgh students. The coaches will leave from George Square at 10:30 on the morning of the match. Although alcohol is banned on the coaches , banter will ensue. Once at the ground, entry is by cash at the gate and students get in for £4 (£8 for non students). After the match and hopefully an Edinburgh victory the buses will depart Cove at 5:15. To book your seat on the coach contact the Sports Union Office at 48 Pleasance or via e-mail on sports.union@ed.ac.uk or ring 0131 650 2346

This trip is a potenmtially once in a lifetime opportunity for the players and for the University. The best chance the team has is with a large away folowing. lets turn Allan Park into the Peffermill of the north! While they will be stiff opposition, this is an amazing chance for the University Football team to make it into the 4th round and get a glamour tie

(EUSU, 29/10/2007)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scottish Cup 3rd Round

Devastated, Despondent...Robbed?

Many a time, a fan blames the referee for their team’s defeat but, as Edinburgh University fans travel home, they can feel that that would be justified opinion. A basic error by the referee and his linesmen has cost Edinburgh University a chance in history. Jamie Redman and his boys left the park gutted and this news will not help them. The basic error in question being giving a player two yellow cards and allowing him to remain on the field of play by failing to show him a red card. A 90th minute ricochet goal saw Edinburgh suffer a 1-0 defeat.

In a squashed ground with only a railway between the ground and the North Sea, the weather crisp and surprisingly calm, the game got under way. Cove Rangers started brightly and had a very strong opening 5 minutes, especially through their star player Barrie Stephen. The referee showed his colours early on with a string of poor decisions regarding both throw-ins and free kicks. Nevertheless, early on, these were to break both ways. Perhaps the realisation it would not be Edinburgh’s day was when player/assistant manager Neil ‘Zorro’ Irvine was stretchered off and hospitalised for a head injury sustained on 15 minutes. It has to be said however that his replacement, Peder Beck-Friis, saw Edinburgh come into the game by increasing the side’s balance. It also gave Michael Hazeldine more space and freedom to run around like the terrier he is. The battle for the middle of the park was hard fought with many central players, including Jamie Redman and on 27 minutes Cove Rangers number 4 Watson, picking up bookings. Late in the half saw some of the best chances. A run in from Jamie Redman saw him pick up a short corner but his shot lacked the power to trouble Windrum in the Cove goal. Cove ended the half strongly a free kick being closely watched over by Bennett. The first half ended with both sides fairly even in terms of chances created and possession. The physical nature of Cove could allow them to claim the first half was theirs.

The fans received some good news after the half time whistle when news trickled to them that Zorro Irvine only sustained a cut ear and slight concussion in the earlier incident and would be joining his team mates on the bus back to Edinburgh that evening following a quick trip to hospital. The second half began brightly for Edinburgh with strong runs from Beesley, Maxwell and Hazeldine and some inspired cross field balls that had Cove stretched at the back. The first chance came when Cove Rangers number 4, Watson, tripped Hazeldine on the edge of the box. He received his second booking but, in a moment of sheer Graham Poll esque lunacy, was not to receive his marching orders. Beesley's free kick resulted in a good save from the Cove keeper Windrum diving low to his right. Play continued, despite this rather basic refereeing error and Edinburgh kept stretching Cove. Sadly, many killer balls and mazy runs didn’t result in what is required in football, a goal.

As time drew on and the fans nerves increased, Cove had a few chances but it was a game Edinburgh could take. On 85 minutes, Edinburgh’s number 4, Fusco slid in on a challenge. The ball was flicked up and hit his hand, earning our number 4 a second yellow. Seemingly, the referee had regained the ability to count to 2 and sent him off. It was a soft card and probably undeserved and Scott can feel very hard done by with this decision. Cove went all aggressive and Edinburgh University Head Coach, Dougie Samuels took Hazeldine off for Shaggy Munro to shore up the defence. As Cove attacked, they looked very dangerous and, in the last minute, the ball pinged around the defence before Cove striker Phil McKibben was stuck by the ball on his shin to ricochet home to the disappointment of the 200 travelling fans.

This was the killer blow for Edinburgh and, two minutes later, full time was blown. A disconsolate Edinburgh side left the park after applauding their travelling support. This, though, is not the end for this side. While the dream of a 4th round appearance against an SPL side is gone, it is important to remember that they are enjoying their best ever form in the East of Scotland league, presently topping the table which something never achieved before. Additionally, there are still chances in the BUSA competitions for nationwide glory.

Edinburgh University Sports Union President Simon Messenger, whilst saddened by this heartbreaking defeat, paid tribute to the travelling support and the fantastic display the University team showed today. “I am obviously just as disappointed by the outcome of this game as any other University fan, in particular considering the apparent dreadful refereeing decision. Nevertheless, this is all history now and tribute has to be paid to the boys and their coaches for the incredible effort and professionalism they have put into getting this far in the Cup. We managed to get three buses full of supporters up North, including the Principal and a senior Vice-Principal and, despite the defeat, I am incredibly proud of what we achieved today.”

In the eyes of this reporter, it is a huge disappointment for the team. The referee has cheated Edinburgh today by failing even the most basic standards expected of him. His punishment (if any by the SFA) will be nothing in comparison to the pain of the Edinburgh boys tonight. When challenged by members of the press after the match, the referee denies booking Watson in the first half. This is in my view an attempt to cover over his error by an official who knows he has made a mistake that would have certainly changed the match. But it is important to remember that, in football, bad decisions happen. Edinburgh over a season will get the fair share that go their way, but it is unlikely any will be as serious as today’s error.

Additionally, Edinburgh failed to score a goal, it is a well known cliché, but a goal is a must to win. In this match it was not a case of wasted chances, but of inches. Frequently the ball would split defenders and the strikers, the ball would just go over or even clip the bar. The Edinburgh boys threw everything at this game, but what with head injuries, the referee and the narrow misses it was just not their day. There is, however still much to play for and there are two home games coming up at Peffermill in the next two weeks so, if you have the Uni football bug, then feel free to pop along!

Final Score
Cove Rangers FC 1-0 Edinburgh University AFC

Edinburgh Team:
1: Bennett (GK)
2: Cathcart
3: Cook
4: Fusco
5: Thompson
6: Irvine (Sub 15mins)
7: Beesley
8: Redman (Capt)
9: Hazeldine (Sub 85mins)
10: McKinnon
11: Maxwell

Subs: Harkness (GK), Beck-Friis (On 15mins), Woods, Hair, Munro (on 85mins)

(Pictures & Match Report by James Pope, 24/11/2007)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edinburgh University Feeding Scottish Football League

EUAFC and EUSU are delighted to announce that goalkeeper Scott Bennett and full-back Andrew Cook have this summer made the step from the University of Edinburgh Association Football Club to senior Scottish Football League sides Stenhousemuir and Raith Rovers respectively.

Upon his recent graduation from the University, newly qualified PE teacher Andrew has signed a contract with the Kirkcaldy based Rovers after 2 fantastic seasons with EUAFC and more than deserves his opportunity to perform in Scotland's 3rd tier. A powerful-running competitor comfortable on either side of defence, Andrew's trademark strength and willingness to get forward made him one of the first names on the 1st XI teamsheet after joining from East of Scotland rivals Kelso United in the summer of 2006 and he played a major part of the team's historical Scottish Cup successes in seasons 2006-7 and 2007-8 and the 2nd place achievement in the East of Scotland Premier Division in the season just passed for the first time in over 4 decades.

The same can be said for Scott whose ever presence in goals for the past 4 seasons has provided manager Douglas Samuel with the strongest of foundations to build the squad which has accomplished so much particularly in the past 2 years. Having graduated also in PE Teaching in 2005 Scott was to become one of the 2 non-students allowed to represent the 1st XI in East of Scotland football alongside player/assistant manager Neil Irvine and he has been one of the most consistent performers in the University jersey, and East of Scotland football in general, during that time culminating in a call-up for the Scottish semi-professional squad for the summer games of 2008. Signing for 3rd Division Stenhousemuir is a move which Scott richly deserves and the University's loss is most definitely a huge gain for 'Stenny'.

Both players join a growing list of recent names to have made the move from University football to Scottish League sides, in doing so highlighting the quality and standard of player that the club can help produce under the excellent coaching of Douglas Samuel and his staff. At the end of season 2006-7 striker Andrew Howat joined Cowdenbeath - the 1st team's conquerors in their history making appearance in the Scottish Cup 2nd Round in 2006 - before moving on to Berwick Rangers, where he currently remains, in January 2008. Previous to Andrew, Bobby Lennox graduated and then joined Albion Rovers in the Scottish 3rd Division in 2004 and Stew Fowlie and Dan Gerrard have both left to join East of Scotland heavyweights Spartans in recent times. This pattern of movement is testament to the amount of work that the football club and Sports Union have done in raising the competitive standards of its teams at the top end of performance and to see players go on to the next level is a very satisfying reward for everybody involved. EUAFC and the Sports Union are sure Scott and Andrew will flourish in their new environments and wish them all the best for their futures, and long may success stories like this continue for many years to come.

(EUSU & EUAFC 07/07/2008)

------------------------------------------------ 2006/2007 -----------------------------------------------

AFC fare well in Scottish Cup

Edinburgh University Association Football Club arguably recorded their biggest victory since their Image Printers Cup Final success against Spartans in 2005 with a stunning 2-1 victory over Whitehill Welfare at Peffermill Saturday afternoon. The students were most definitely labelled as the underdogs before the match with the Welfare, and it seems to be a role with which they are happy to play - with yesterday being the latest example.

Jamie Redman scored the first goal of the game early in the first half with Nicky Walker unfortunately replying shortly afterwards for the visitors to square the game at 1-1. Matters did not change until the very last minute of the game. The students had fought tooth and nail for every ball during a tiring second half with Neil Irvine, not for the first time in a Uni shirt, showing his "big-game" experience. Redman, Berry and Hair caused the visitors many problems in midfield with a strong competitive approach to the match. Cathcart, Munro and Thompson were determined in their effort not to give Whitehill the result they craved for with some fantastic defending while Nikolaidis and Howat defended brilliantly from the front. Scott Bennett also had to be on his toes to make some crucial saves and decisions during important stages of the match.

The visitors, on another day, may have found the breakthrough that they perhaps feel their pressure and play warranted. However, the home side's endless hard work, spirit and determination paid dividends when a great corner kick from substitute Jack Beesley was met by the towering head of Fraser Munro who bulleted the ball into the bottom corner of the net to spark scenes of jubilation amongst the home support.

The crowd was in excess of 300 people and not many would argue with the fact that they had witnessed a terriffic contest between two talented and committed teams. With the University narrowly losing out to Whitehilll on two occasions last year they will feel that they deserved a break against the side and now only Vale of Leithen stand in their way of a first Scottish Cup First Round appearance since 1972/1973.

(EUAFC, 17/09/06)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The History Boys

Edinburgh University FC dramatically clinched their qualification for the 1st round of the Scottish Cup proper by beating Vale of Leithen 3-0 on Saturday afternoon. The last time they reached this round, Elvis and Pink Floyd were still playing and the Watergate scandal hadn't hit the fan yet! This was back in 1973 as they were narrowly beaten by Queen's Park Rangers 1-0 at Hampden Park. Playing at Hampden remains a dream for the coming rounds but the possibility of playing a Scottish Division 2 team in the next round is more than likely.

Qualifying for the Scottish Cup not only makes the first team players very proud but delighted the whole club as all the players will be able to look back in 30 years time and say "when I played for the University the First Team qualified for the Scottish Cup."

Looking forward to the draw, James Hair the club captain reckons that the ideal scenario would be a bye in the first round then a another qualifier (possibly a highland league team) in the 2nd round. If we were to win this then ideally he would take Rangers at Ibrox in the 3rd round! To put things in perspective, When Whitehill qualified from our league approximately ten years ago this is what happened to them with a bye, then Fraserburgh and then Celtic at Parkhead. They eventually got beaten 10-0, which isn't actually that bad a result!

Edinburgh University started the game by going on the offensive and keeping the ball close with lots of clever short passes. Their dominance was such for the start of the game that goalkeeper Scott Bennet didn't even touch the ball until the 15th minute. Fast and agile, the two EU strickers Andy Howat and G Nikolaidis never gave the Vale defence a chance to breath. In the first minute Howat won a corner, with Nikolaidis then obtaining a free kick which N Irvie shot just inches wide of the back post.

The first scare of the match for the University came in the 18th minute when a Vale cross escaped keeper Bennet's hands which their striker narrowly blasted over the crossbar. Delivrance came in the 20th minute when the Uni deservedly got the goal they were so craving for. Just like in training sessions, a M Berry cross found G Nikolaidis outside the box who put the ball back in for the sharp Redman to header the ball into the back of the net. Within minutes, the students were back up front attacking and a stunning shot by Berry got unfortunately saved by the Vale keeper.

In what was without doubt their best match of the season, the students continued to pile on the pressure. Eventually the break came, along with their second goal. Berry, always present, ran down the right wing and delivered an inch perfect cross for S Maxwell at the back post whose left foot drive almost drilled a hole in the back of the Vale net.

Most days, a 2 nil lead half way through the match is considered pretty good. This was not enough for the students who added another goal to their tally within 5 minutes of the break, Irvine's perfect cross meeting an unstoppable downward Howat header. Vale were distraught and the students were jubilant - quite rightly so. The rest of the match was a formality, with the defence closing down rapidly on any Vale offensive and the attack trying to add to the tally.

Qualification meant so much to the current players as most may never get the chance to play in the Scottish cup again, if they play junior or give up football once they leave Uni. For the profile of the club, it is massive for attracting new players to the club. One of the problems the football team regulary has is attracting the top youngsters to play for the Uni when either junior teams or lower league teams are in for them. By qualifying, Edinburgh University have shown these players that there is maybe not so much a jump between University football and the lower leagues.

James Hair, the first Edinburgh University AFC captain to lead his team into the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup Qualifiers in 33 years. Speaking to the Evening News, Hair said "We prepared so well for this game that the boys have been thinking about it for two weeks. We knew it was going to be tough and it has been hard to concentrate on anything else during the build-up. We showed professionalism and experience beyond our average age of only 21."

Dougie Samuel, the coach, who couldn't have wished for a better birthday present on Saturday has now set the target on winning the Qualifiers. He was quoted as saying after the match "We have worked so hard since pre-season training started on July 1 and we have won three hard games in this cup. We have scored seven goals and conceded only one, so we are there on merit." Indeed.
The draw for the next round will take place in the next couple of weeks. Everyone is hoping for a game away in a big stadium, maybe to Morton or Stirling. Nevertheless, a home match with one of the biggest home crowds in recent history would go down well too. Congratulations once again to all the team and best of luck for the next round.

Vale of Leithen 0-3 Edinburgh Uni (Berry 20, Maxweel 35, Howat 50)

Edinburgh Uni: Bennet, Berry, Munro, Thompson, Cathcart, Irvine (Beesley 68), Hair (C), Redman (Cook 46), Howat (Milligan 75), Nikolaidis, Maxweel
Subs: Jarvie, Woods - Coach: D.Samuel

(Simon Messenger 03/10/06)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EU AFC Face Tough Keith Challenge

At 1:40pm on Thursday 19th October 2006, the 1st and 2nd round of the Tennents Scottish Cup was drawn. Not something of particular interest to many students unless they follow a lower league Scottish football side. But for once there was a real interest because, for the first time since 1973, Edinburgh University Association Football Club were in the hat.

As the draw began, (the away teams being drawn by Hearts Player Jose Goncalves) a hush descended upon the Cabaret Bar in The Pleasance. The number everyone eagerly listened for was number 15 - Edinburgh University AFC. The gathered throng were not to be waiting long, 5th number out of the hat was the Number 15. After a wee cheer from the crowd, the hush descended, who were we playing? The possibility of Stirling Albion still loomed as did other league sides, it was not to be a league side, it was to be Highland League Keith FC. After the first round was completed, the second round was drawn, the hush descended once more as it was drawn that Edinburgh or Keith would play at Cowdenbeath.

So who are Keith FC? They play in the Highland League, presently sitting in 6th place having won 5 and lost 2 games this season so far. According to an expert on the Highland League they are "quite a decent team". They are however faced with quite a journey, travelling from not far from Peterhead.

Last season, 2nd division Gretna went all the way to Penalties in the final with SPL Hearts and the magic of the cup surely means that the boys of Edinburgh University AFC will be dreaming of a place in the 3rd round draw.
Edinburgh will play Keith on Saturday 18th November 2006.

(James Pope 19/10/06)

First Round

Brechin City v Queen's Park
Arbroath v Albion Rovers
Edinburgh University v Keith
Deveronvale v Montrose
East Stirlingshire v Stirling Albion
Preston Athletic v Stenhousemuir
East Fife v Berwick Rangers
Stranraer v Alloa Athletic
(Ties to be played on Saturday 18 November)

Second Round

Elgin City v Buckie Thistle
Annan Athletic v Greenock Morton
Peterhead v Ayr United
Edinburgh City v East Stirlingshire or Stirling Albion
Raith Rovers v Dumbarton
Deveronvale or Montrose v Fraserburgh
Stranraer or Alloa v Forfar Athletic
Cowdenbeath v Edinburgh University or Keith
East Fife or Berwick Rangers v Arbroath or Albion Rovers
Brechin City or Queen's Park v Preston Athetic or Stenhousemuir
(Ties on Saturday, 9 December)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scottish Cup Match Preview: EUAFC v Keith FC

For the first time since 1973, an Edinburgh University Football Team will be entering the first round proper of this week end's Tennents Scottish Cup. Their challenge ahead is named Keith FC, a name perhaps less glamorous than Morton or Stirling, but no less of a threat. The match will take place this Saturday the 18th of November, at 1.30pm, down at Peffermill. 1200 tickets are on sale, and are available either at the Sports Union office at Pleasance or all week at lunchtime in Potterrow. Tickets are priced at £8 but students can get them for £5! It's not a lot to pay to view history in the making.

Not often have Skysports or the BBC been down to Peffermill for any event (nor have 15 newspapers at the same time), and all the Edinburgh University players will be sure to do their best to achieve what no student has ever done before in the club's long history: Qualify for the Second Round (against Cowdenbeath). Playing in the Scottish Cup not only makes the first team players very proud but delights the whole club as all the players will be able to look back in 30 years time and say "when I played for the University the First Team qualified for the Scottish Cup."
Speaking to the Student newspaper this week, Dougie Samuel (Team Coach) sees "the match as a fifty-fifty game". It undeniably is but, with as much home support as possible, qualification is a serious option. Rarely does such a big sporting event take place at the University so please make sure you come down support your boys! Wear green, and don't forget to wear warm clothing!

Probable line-up (3-5-2):

Goalkeeper: Scott BENNETT (Age: 23), PE Teacher

Defender: Fraser MUNRO (Age: 24), Physical Education Student

Defender: Stephen THOMPSON (Age: 22), Medicine Student

Defender: Mark CATHCART (Age: 21), Maths & Physics Student

Midfield: James HAIR (Age: 21), Economics & Accounts Student

Midfield: Mark BERRY (Age: 21), Physical Education Student

Midfield: Neil IRVINE (Age: 39), Consultant, Club Coach

Midfield: Jamie REDMAN (Age: 20), Chemical Engineering Student

Midfield: Steven MAXWELL (Age: 19), Law Student

Forward: Andrew HOWAT (Age: 21), Physical Education Student

Forward: George NIKOLAIDIS (Age: 22), History Student

Team Coach: Dougie SAMUEL

(EUSU 15/11/06)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exultant Edinburgh Cruise to Cowdenbeath
by Killing Keith

Ever since Jose Goncalves drew Keith FC of the Highland League out of the hat for the Tennants Scottish Cup 1st round, the sporting community and students of Edinburgh University have been preparing for this tie. As the game approached the excitement built, to the victors a tie at Cowdenbeath in the 2nd round, and the chance to dream of the 3rd round tie at Rangers or Celtic, to the losers, nothing, a dream over for another year.

So as the teams and fans awoke on the big day greeted by a cold, crisp and sunny day with some cloud and unusually little wind at Peffermill, dreaming of the chance to replicate a Scottish Cup shock such as the one seeing 2nd Division Gretna reach the final last season. They were greeted by a Peffermill pitch in good yet slightly heavy condition.

The game got underway at 1:30pm and it was Edinburgh who were out the blocks on the ‘B of Bang’, marshalled in midfield by the assistant coach ‘Zorro’ Irvine, Captain James Hair and Man of the Match George Nikoladis. The youthful Edinburgh side showed their passion and ran a very strong Keith side out of the match. Cheered on by 1000 supporters, Edinburgh were to get the vital opening goal in early, on 10 minutes. New boy Hazeldine, a first year medic who had previously played at Wigan Athletic, latched onto a through ball by Howatt to slot past the Keith keeper to make it 1-0 to Edinburgh. It was now that this youthful Edinburgh side showed maturity beyond their years to maintain composure and continue to push on for a second. The second goal did come on 28 minutes, once again the Edinburgh link up play with Hazeldine proving deadly as a Nikoladis through ball split open the Keith defence, once again Hazeldine showed brilliant composure to slot the ball past the advancing Keeper. Edinburgh were not to sit back on their lead, and chance after chance came and only desperate defending on the line prevented a goal for the hard working Nikoladis.

Keith did create a few chances in the first half but they were limited and often spurned by the away side. As half time came, Edinburgh enjoyed a deserved 2-0 lead with the Edinburgh attackers ripping the Keith team to shreds.
Keith it must be said decided to turn up for the 2nd half and they came out like a team who knew they needed the early goal. They got the goal just a quarter of an hour into the second half. A poorly cleared ball was slotted home by Keith FC striker Walker at the near post.

What followed was an incredibly nervy period of play with Edinburgh under severe pressure from an increasingly eager Keith side. As tiredness grew in the Edinburgh side especially in key players Irvine and Hair who had passed late fitness tests, the Edinburgh defence was put under increasing pressure, but it held firm. Even when the defence was breached, Edinburgh keeper Bennett was on hand to pull of a save or two for the cameras, notable a full stretch dive to the left to push a Keith shot round the post. And as the final whistle approached it was Edinburgh who finished the stronger of the 2 teams, again through Nikoladis and Hazeldine catching an increasingly desperate Keith side on the break.

As the final whistle was blown a jubilant Peffermill erupted with cheers, the players rightfully mobbed as heroes. They now have to turn their attention to a massive 2nd round tie at Second Division Cowdenbeath on December 9th to the victors of this tie a place in the 3rd round draw with the chance to face an SPL giant...
Man Of The Match: George Nikolaidis

(James Pope 18/11/06)

Edinburgh University: Bennett, Cook, Fraser, Thompson, Cathcart (Beesley 89), Irvine (Maxwell 75), Hair (C) (Munro 85), Redman, Howat, Nikolaidis, Hazeldine. Subs Not Used: Woods, Lyall.

Booked: Redman. Goals: Hazeldine 8, 29.

Keith: Shearer, Watt, Lonie, Robertson, Nicol, Still, MacKay, Keith (Craig 73), Lennox (O'Driscoll 57), Donaldson, McAllister (Walker 43). Subs Not Used: Cheyne, Niddrie.

Booked: Robertson. Goal: Walker 58.

Att: 1,000

Ref: J McKendrick

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Biggest Game In Club History For University Football Club

EUAFC v Cowdenbeath
Saturday 9th December
Kick Off 3.00pm
Central Park, Cowdenbeath, Fife, KY4 9QQ

Come and support Edinburgh University Association Football Club as they take on Cowdenbeath in the Tennent's Scottish Cup fixture on Saturday December 9th.
The cup clash with the Scottish Second Division side is being billed as the biggest game in the club's history.

It follows the University's 2-1 victory over Highland League side Keith in the first round of the competition, thanks to two goals from first year medical student Michael Hazeldine.

This is the furthest the club have reached in the competition and hopes are high for continuing this year's success. The winners of the Cowdenbeath fixture will go into the third round draw with the big guns from the Scottish Premier League and the First Division.

“Although we know Cowdenbeath will provide stern opposition, we can and will approach the game full of hope and optimism,” said EUAFC's head coach Douglas Samuel. “Our players know they have a wonderful opportunity to achieve something special.”

Coaches and Ticket Information
To show its support for the team, The University is providing four free coaches to the game at Cowdenbeath's Central Park ground in Fife for kick-off at 3.00pm.
Students travelling on the coaches will gain admission to the ground for just £5.00.

The coaches will depart from George Square at 1.00pm on Saturday 9 December, returning at 5.15pm. For people travelling to the ground independently, ‘pay at the gate’ tickets are priced at £10.00 with £5.00 concessions for children and senior citizens.

To reserve a place on one of the coaches contact:
Edinburgh University Sports Union Office
48 Pleasance
Edinburgh
EH8 9TJ
Tel: 0131 650 2346
sports.union@ed.ac.uk

(Text from the Official Edinburgh University website: www.ed.ac.uk, 3/12/06)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

¤ The Day The Dream Died...

Cowdenbeath FC 5 - EUAFC 1

It seemed like nothing could stop the University Football Team in the Scottish Cup. Every time they had been expected to lose this season, they had succeeded. Sadly, Cowndenbeath FC proved to be just too good a team for the Uni boys. The Second Division team convincingly beat EUAFC 5-1, sending the students back from cup dreams and glory to academia and revision. A brave performance from the whole team and an outstanding goal from substitute Jack Beesley meant that the Uni left Central Park on the 9th of December heads high and full of great memories.

Five buses full and around 300 Uni supporters headed across the Forth to give the team the support they deserved. Amongst which were a few high profile University personalities, such as Principal Tim O'Shea, who said "Some people might be surprised to see Edinburgh University's name in the Scottish Cup, but it illustrates that sporting achievement is a cornerstone of student life. We hope that the success might encourage applications from intellectually able students who are also good at football."

Under the sounds of the Champions League official tune, both teams entered the pitch full of hopes. The Cowdenbeath squad were without a shadow of a doubt the favourites, counting players such as David Hannah (ex Celtic player, Scottish Cup winner with Dundee Utd) or Daniel Lennon (ex Kilmarnock).

The "Uni, Uni, Uni" chants made the students feel at home right from the start, obtaining their first corner after 3 minutes. The counter attack quickly reminded the students not to underestimate the 'Blue Brazil' as a narrow offside kept Scott Dalziel from scoring the first goal. The away support for the University team was remarkable, as was the imagination of a group of students who might have had a couple Tennents too many on the way up. Chants like "Who the f*** are Cowdenbeath?" "Cowdenbeath, bye, bye, bye", "We don't pay council tax"... gave the distinct impression the match was being played at Peffermill.

Some strong pressure from Uni nbr 10 George Nikolaidis kept the Cowdenbeath defenders on their tip toes for the first ten minutes. A good save by Bennett after a shot along the ground from Buchanan a minute later reminded the boys that victory was possible. It all looked good when, after 13 minutes, a good cross by Steven Maxwell met Hazeldine's header who knocked the ball past Cowdenbeath's 16 year old debutant keeper Kyle Allison. His inaptitude on this occasion will be forgotten thanks for Hazeldine being deemed offside by a couple of millimetres.

Both teams started the game well but Edinburgh had a bad tendency to get rid of the ball far too quickly in 'kick and rush' style. The midfield battle was brutal, in particular between the two numbers 8, Patrick Scullion and Jamie Redman, who most certainly won't be going to the pub together in the near future. Cowdenbeath got the majority of the best opportunities in the first half, Buchanan forcing Bennett to an outstanding save (16) and missing an easy one on one opportunity, booting the ball over the bar (20). More Blue Brazil shots at the 25th and 28th minute gave an idea of what was to come before half time.

Buchanan put Cowdenbeath one up after 32 minutes, scoring an easy goal from 3 yards out after a good pass by Dalziel. The Uni kept trying and getting corners but just couldn't score. Half time couldn't come too soon for the students. Unfortunately, it only came after two more Cowdenbeath goals, defender Lennon tapping in 3 minutes before half time and Buchanan completing his brace with one of the last shots of the half.

Half Time: Cowdenbeath 3-0 Edinburgh Uni

Dougie Samuel, Edinburgh Uni coach, is known for his inspiring speeches. Whatever was said at half time must have taken some time to sink in as Cowdenbeath dominated out-right the first 10 minutes and gave the impression the Uni were going to have a very miserable end to the day. Slowly but surely, the academics came back into the game. Andrew Howatt had a good chance after 58 minute whilst Scott Fusco attempted to slot a 35 yard free kick in on 62 minutes but saw his shot fly over the crossbar. To the chants of "Nil nil in the second half", a tired Nikolaidis gave way to Jack Beesley on 65 minutes. And what a substitution that proved to be!

7 minutes later, Beesley scored perhaps one of the best Cup goals of this season, combining skill, technique and audacity. From the side of the box and back to the goal, Jack got the ball, lifted it to himself, turned and put a magical volley over the keeper into the top corner. A goal that SkySports, present once again, will be more than happy to show over and over again. Another freekick on 77 minutes by Fusco gave the Uni a glimmer of hope that a miracle might happen.
Unfortunately, a rare mistake by keeper Bennett 10 minutes from the end put a definite end to the dream. A poor clearance was intercepted by Cowdenbeath substitute Fotheringham, who put a perfect cross in, allowing Icelandic Paatelainen to header in his first goal of the day. 2 minutes later, some constant pressure by the home attackers paid off with Baxter easily converting a good cross from Ellis.

The game was all but over, despite a couple more corners by Maxwell giving 'Tennents Man of the Match' keeper Allison some work. Chris Woods had one last chance on goal at the last minute but nothing was made of it. With the final whistle gone, a wave of cheers emerged from the young crowd, applauding not only a decent performance, but also the fact that no fingers were lost this afternoon to frostbite.

The University Man of the Match goes to Andrew Howat, who was ever-present and unlucky not to get his name on the scoresheet. In the next round, Cowdenbeath go on to play Brechin (6th of January).

Final Score: Cowdenbeath 5-1 Edinburgh University

Shots:
- On Target: Cowdenbeath: 9, Edinburgh Uni 6
- Off Target: Cowdenbeath 12, Edinburgh Uni 2
- Total: Cowdenbeath 21, Edinburgh Uni 8

Cowdenbeath: 1 Allison, 2 Baxter, 5 Ritchie, 6 Hannah, 3 Hill, 7 Paatelainen, 4 Lennon, 8 Scullion (14 Fotheringham 73), 11 Ellis, 10 Dalziel, 9 Buchanan (15 Manzie 59). Subs Not Used: 12 Fusco, 16 McBride, 18 Martin.
Goals: Buchanan 32, Lennon 42, Buchanan 45, Paatelainen 80, Baxter 82.
Bookings: None

Edinburgh University: 1 Scott Bennett, 2 Andrew Cook, 4 Stephen Thompson, 5 Mark Cathcart, 3 Scott Fusco, 7 James Hair (14 Chris Woods 74), 6 Steven Maxwell, 9 George Nikolaidis (12 Jack Beesley 64), 8 Jamie Redman, 11 Michael Hazeldine (15 Michael Campion 74), 10 Andrew Howat. Subs Not Used: 16 Fraser Munro, 19 Ross Harkness.

Goals: Beesley 72.
Bookings: None

Ref:Mr A Law
Attendance: 896

(Simon Messenger 9/12/06)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Close of Historical Football Season

The student football club’s first team concluded its season on a high note with a 2-0 victory in the final of the East of Scotland King Cup played at Selkirk on the afternoon of Sunday 13 May. First half goals from Jamie Redman (4th year Chemical Engineering) and Andrew Howat (4th year Physical Education) were decisive in the King Cup final. The King Cup has been contested for over a century but this was only the University’s second triumph - the first was in 1976/77. The match at Selkirk was the team’s fifty-second competitive match in a season which opened on Saturday 5 August 2006 and will go down as one of the most successful in the Club’s 129 year history.

While major attention pre-Christmas focussed on qualification for the Scottish Cup for the first time since season 1973/74, the successful hosting and defeat in the first round of this season’s Highland League champions Keith at Peffermill in front a crowd of close to 900 (a strong press presence and the television cameras), followed by a courageous performance in defeat away to Scottish Second Division Cowdenbeath in the second round, there was also much to enjoy in the second portion of the season. A strong run in the very competitive East of Scotland Premier League earned 4th place in this 12 team division and a record 37 points tally. The team’s record over the final 13 matches was 11 wins, one draw and one defeat. The single defeat came in the semi final of the East of Scotland cup, 0-1 away to Kelso. However victory in the King Cup brought much deserved silverware and reward to the management/coaching team and the squad of 23 players for their long and sustained commitment throughout the season.

The high standard of football played by the University in recent times owes a great deal to the expertise and experience of the coaching team. Douglas Samuel, the first team coach for the past four seasons, is ably backed by his assistants, Neil Irvine, John Bird and Gary Donaldson and by the coaches of the Club’s other three sides.

On an individual level six players were selected for the Scottish Universities in representative matches against the Scottish Amateur Select and the East of Scotland League Select. They were Mark Cathcart (4th year Maths and Physics), Stephen Thompson (3rd year Medicine), Scott Fusco (1st year Physical Education), Jamie Redman, Andrew Howat and Michael Hazeldine (1st year Medicine). Andrew Howat was also selected to play for the East of Scotland League Select, along with goalkeeper Scott Bennett, in a match against the Highland League Select at Easter Road. A fine performance in the East Select’s 2-1 victory earned Howat selection for the 18-man Scottish FA Semi-Pro team for the annual Four Nations tournament to be played in the Highlands. Scotland play against Wales on 22 May, England on 25 May and the Republic of Ireland on 27 May, all at Ross County’s Victoria Park ground at Dingwall. Howat finished as the University’s leading scorer for the season with 26 goals, his prowess attracted the interest of Senior clubs and he has signed part time professional for Cowdenbeath for season 2007/08.

Andrew Howat and Michael Hazeldine have both been invited to attend the final Great Britain trials on 2 June prior to the selection of the British Students team for the World Student Games in Thailand in August of this year.

With only five members of the current first team squad scheduled to graduate this summer, a high level of interest from potential students with good footballing credentials plus a considerable number of players from the Club’s other three teams pressing for inclusion in next season’s squad, there will be healthy competition for places when pre-season training commences at the start of July.
Further information on EUAFC is available on the Club’s website at http://euafc.eusu.ed.ac.uk/

(Alan Chainey, 25/05/07)

^ Top of Page