Good subject and post Luddite,
The timing is right as whilst predictions about how ICT would/ could get on the CHPS when we won promotion was in full swing, we had no idea what the player pool would really be come August.
I’ve not seen any match so far but the posts back from those that did indicate we are a bit away from being at the level required to compete (and importantly win) in the CHPS. Have we enough quality to replace or improve the player level from last season ? - Far too early to say however I still expect a couple of players to come through the door. Personally I believe we will be tested a lot more defensively, and whilst the goalie and back four will do the heavy lifting here, strikers and the midfield cannot go missing in this task.
Kells roll in having a good season will be important. He has had 20 odd months under his belt now and gained enough experience to take the players he has to come up with the best tactics and game plan to get results, (ideally a few draws away and victories at home).
Ultimately I’m optimistic we can secure ourselves in the ‘middle-pack’ knowing promotion ain’t going to happen, but get results that keep the threatened two or three relegate teams 4 - 6 points below us.
A good season 26-27 season for me is fifth (think it’s possible). A poor one is eighth.
bc
By
big cherly ·
What? No Spartans! Good luck to all the Highland League sides in this years SFA Cup. Nice local derby in the 2nd round I see.
First Round (ties to be played 18th November):
Brechin City v Queen's Park
Arbroath v Albion Rovers
Edinburgh University v Keith
Devoronvale v Montrose
East Stirlingshire v Stirling Albion
Preston Athletic v Stenhousemuir
East Fife v Berwick Rangers
Stranraer v Alloa Athletic
Second Round (ties to be played 9th December)
Elgin City v Buckie Thistle
Annan Athletic v Greenock Morton
Peterhead v Ayr United
Edinburgh City v East Stirlingshire/Stirling Albion
Raith Rovers v Dumbarton
Deveronvale/Montrose v Fraserburgh
Stranraer/Alloa v Forfar Athletic
Cowdenbeath v Edinburgh University/Keith
East Fife/Berwick Rangers v Arbroath/Albion Rovers
Brechin City/Oueen's Park v Preston Athletic/Stenhousemuir