Football Season Guide

Clyde head into the new season as the favourites to lift the League Two title in 2016/17. The Bully Wee enjoyed a successful campaign under former Scotland international Barry Ferguson in 2015/16, albeit one which ultimately ended in disappointment following defeat in the play-offs. There were more than a few question marks hanging over Ferguson 12 months ago following a season of struggle which saw the side languish at the wrong end of the table before eventually finishing in 6th place. He learnt the lessons of his mistakes and stopped the constant tinkering with his squad, relied on far fewer experienced 30-somethings and strengthened his squad with likes of goalkeeper John Gibson and wing-back Scott Linton, who were outstanding. They were amongst the play-off pack before a fine run of form in March and April, with seven wins from nine league games, saw them challenge East Fife for the League Two title. They fell away at the end however and had to settle for a third place finish in the table. They comfortably saw off Elgin City in a two-legged play-off semi-final but were beaten 3-2 on aggregate by Queen’s Park in the two-legged final. Ferguson certainly didn’t rest on his laurels and acted quickly to strength his squad during the close season with some impressive signings including defender Martin McNiff and midfielder Matthew Flynn from Annan Athletic, attacking midfielder Dylan Easton from Elgin City and experienced striker Peter MacDonald from Championship Morton. The strength the Bully Wee now possess is illustrated in the fact they have allowed defenders Ross Millen and Scott Durie to leave the club during the summer. The side from Cumbernauld looks a cut above the rest of their challengers and they will have to manage the expectations which come with being favourites for the title.