Goals only missing for Uni and Star

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.

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“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)