Football Season Guide

Kelty won League Two at the first attempt last season, having been given a huge influx of cash to achieve that ambition. However, much of that money appears to have dried up and there has been little attempt to build on the squad that was already in place at New Central Park, with the marquee players in their squad already tied down to extended deals. Over the summer, too, there has been some bad blood spilled between former manager Kevin Thomson and the club after he left to take up a position on the coaching staff of Rangers. He was considered to be a very strong manager and his loss will be another factor counting against the Fife club this season. John Potter, who has previously coached St Mirren, has been put in charge of the team. Results in the League Cup were hardly inspiring. They lost both of their home matches, including a 2-0 defeat to Albion Rovers, while their sole victory came 3-2 against Cove Rangers. They showed inconsistency and ultimately performed below the level expected of them. In terms of the players they have lost, veteran centre-back Dougie Hill is the most pertinent figure, though he has been well replaced by Lewis Martin, suggesting there will be little tale off in terms of the quality in the squad. The only other senior player they have so far signed likely to get much game time is Kyle Doherty, who arrives from Albion Rovers as a backup option in attack. Kelty’s forward line is where their strength lies, with Nathan Austin an outstanding option at this level when fit. Supported by the pacy Alfie Agyeman, Kelty have a quick and strong attack, while craft is provided out wide by veteran wingers Joe Cardle and Kallum Higginbotham, who are both amply able players. In midfield, meanwhile, Jamie Barjonas is their creative ace while Michael Tidser is another important player in his 30s. Jordan Forster and Tom O’Ware complete a strong spine. Kelty’s lack of depth is concerning; if they have injury issues, they could start to toil.