Football Season Guide

Alloa Athletic only narrowly missed out on claiming promotion last season as they were surprisingly defeated in the play-off final against Brechin. Over the course of the summer, their coaching staff have remained consistent, but on the field they have seen eight players depart. Admittedly around half of these were fringe players but, at the same time, they lost three of their five best performers in the form of Greig Spence, Jordan Kirkpatrick and Calum Waters. It appears that they will try to be a more physically robust team this season. In attack, that is certainly the approach that they have taken, with Craig Malcolm arriving from Stranraer as well as Gary Fleming joining up from Dumbarton which is something of a marquee arrival. In the midfield, Alan Cook will replace Kirkpatrick but is noted for being a more inconsistent performer than his predecessor. Iain Flannigan will still have a major role to play, offering dynamism and movement from the heart of the pitch, something the side are otherwise lacking. Manager, Jim Goodwin, has also taken something of a gamble by adding Thomas Grant to his ranks. Once a hot prospect with Falkirk, a long-term injury seems to have set him back significantly and he failed to shine for struggling Stenhousemuir after signing for them last season. At least the Wasps continue to look a very formidable defensive force, led by Andy Graham. Losing Jason Marr is a puzzling move given that he was so impressive to begin with last season, particularly when Frank McKeown has been so mediocre since arriving at the club. However, Daryll Meggatt is a fine addition at left-back, with the defence looking a very solid unit. Alloa probably have a little leeway to make signings, and they will particularly seek to strengthen their unit with loan arrivals, which could be pivotal.