Queens dismiss administration talk

Published on Wednesday 26 January 2011 18:21

QUEEN of the South manager Kenny Brannigan insists the players have been paid as chairman David Rae rubbished talk of the club going into administration.

The Doonhamers have come clean to supporters over the scale of their financial problems, with Rae confessing that they're struggling to pay bills due to severe cashflow problems that stem from hosting just one game since 13 November.

Queens have lost out on revenue from five home matches that have been postponed due to the weather.

The Barflies Supporters' club has already handed over a 6,000 donation, while the Save Our South campaign, which was launched this week, aims to raise 50,000.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's trip to Stirling Albion, Brannigan said: "The players have rallied round and are just trying to do the best they can on the pitch. The football side of things has not really been affected. They are getting their wages as well so that's not an issue for them.

"We just have to get on with it. The club have come out and told everyone what the situation is and I don't think anyone realised it was that bad. I don't think it's just limited to ourselves, though, I think clubs all over are struggling just now. We've had so many games postponed that the finances are just not there."

Queens were already suffering from a drop in their average attendances this season before the weather hit, and Rae, who has warned the club might have to go part-time, has issued a rallying call to supporters.

However, the Doonhamers chairman is adamant Queens won't follow Dundee by becoming the second Scottish club to plunge into administration this season.

He said: "We need to get the support in the next 12 games that is vital for the club, and also have a fundraising effort. It will stop all of this talk about administration."