Goals only missing for Uni and Star

By KEITH ANDERSON
Published on 27/07/2012 11:55

Heriot-Watt University, promoted into the East Seniors Central Taxis Premier Division at the end of last season, drew 0-0 with East Juniors Premier League side Newtongrange Star in a pre-season friendly at Riccarton last night.

Although there were no goals, there was plenty of excitement generated by both teams as they prepared energetically for the new season. Heriot-Watt head coach Michael Renwick had new signings Jamie Forsyth and Paul Ewing in his line-up, while Star boss Alan Miller gave starts to his new additions – 
Kieron Renton, Paul Tansey and Michael Deland.

Early on, Mel Graham hit the Heriot-Watt post and had 
another effort saved with a one-handed dive from Craig Saunders. Chris Donnelly threatened for the students, while Gary Cherrie and Kevin Donnelly both had good headers for Newtongrange.

“That was pleasing because although it is pre-season we believe that results still matter,” emphasised Renwick. “I wanted to test our guys mentally and fitness-wise as we have been preparing ourselves since the back end of last season.

“We also have strength in depth and I was able to utilise our squad. Newtongarnge was a great test for us because I know the quality they have brought in during the summer.”

Alan Miller, the Star manager, said: “For our guys it was a great fitness exercise. The Heriot-Watt boys are very fit and a wee bit ahead of us in terms of their preparation for the new season. I was delighted with our boys who acquitted themselves very well and their performance was of the highest standard, especially in the first half.”

Tomorrow there are several pre-season friendlies involving East Seniors teams including:

Craigroyston v Keith (kick-off, 2.15pm), Edinburgh City v Pollok at Ainslie Park (3.00pm), Civil Service Strollers v Kelty Hearts (2.30pm), Haddington Athletic v Preston Athletic (2.30pm), Heriot Watt University v FC IL Barg from Norway (2.30pm), Leith Athletic v Carluke Rovers at Leith Links (2.00pm), Vale of Leithen v Newtongrange Star (2.00pm) and Tayport v Spartans (2.00pm)