Andy Carlin refreshed and ready to bolster Bathgate's bid

ANDY CARLIN, hailed by Bathgate boss Graeme Love as the "best goalkeeper in the East Region Super League", has rekindled his g-love affair with the game.

Carlin was close to quitting last season but says he's back enjoying himself again as part of a team doing well under former Hibs player Love.

"I wasn't enjoying it last season (he was No.2 to Jordan Longmuir, who has since moved to Bo'ness] and was actually going to pack in football," he said. "I was also getting married so had a lot on my mind.

"But, after having a few months out of the game, I came back feeling refreshed and, since then, I've been working really hard on my fitness. I'm doing a lot of running, boxing training and circuits. I've also been speaking to a dietician."

Carlin, who pulled off some vital saves as Bathgate won their last outing – a Fife & Lothians Cup match against St Andrews the weekend before Christmas – added: "Graeme Love has done really well since taking over as manager. We've got a good bunch of boys and we all have a smile on our faces when we come in for training. The team spirit is really high at the moment.

"There are still a lot of games to go and Bo'ness certainly haven't won the Super League yet. At the same time, though, I think we're a cup team and it would be good to get a run in one of those competitions, especially the Junior Cup."

With tomorrow's scheduled home tie against Glenrothes in that competition having fallen to the weather, Love has fixed up a friendly against Kirkintilloch at Glasgow Green on Monday night.

Meanwhile, Bathgate are looking for a new secretary following the resignation of Syd McAlpine. Anyone interested in the post should contact the club treasurer, Bobby Napier, on 01506 635594 or 07906 927083.