SFL awards galore for eastern sides

It was a night for east coast clubs at the SFL IRN-BRU Awards Dinner in Glasgow last night with eight of the ten awards finding homes in Fife and Tayside. Dunfermline's success in reaching the SPL was recognised with manager Jim McIntyre earning the First Division honour with Livingston's Second Division title success seeing Gary Bollan awarded the Second Division Manager of the Year.

Raith's John Baird picked up the First Division Player of the Year Award while Brechin City striker Rory McAllister was voted the Second Division's top man.

Third Division champions Arbroath were the biggest winners as they picked up three awards with manager Paul Sheerin being chosen as the Third Division Manager of the Year and striker Gavin Swankie winning the Player's divisional honour. Gayfield midfielder Josh Falkingham went one better as he picked up the Young Player of the Year Award for the entire SFL.

The sponsor's Phenomenal Achievement Award for Season 2010-2011 went to Dundee boss Barry Smith for the manner in which he guided the club on a 23-game unbeaten run to ensure that the 25-point penalty imposed on them for entering administration did not see the Dens Park side relegated.

Raith Rovers' fine season in the First Division was recognised with the Team of the Season award which will compliment manager John McGlynn's PFA Manager of the Year trophy.

Willie McLaren's goal for Queen of the South against Ross County was voted as the Phenomenal Goal of the Season.

lThe SFL's Challenge Cup is to be expanded next season with Highland League Champions Buckie Thistle and second-placed Deveronvale being invited to join the 30 IRN-BRU SFL clubs in the knockout competition.