Football Season Guide

Alloa were last season’s favourites for relegation, but against the odds they produced a strong finish and secured 8th place. They were always going to be competitive and awkward with Jim Goodwin in charge. Fortunately for them half of the league had dreadful seasons and they were never at any point detached at the bottom. They still had the weakest defence, but surprisingly they scored more goals than Falkirk, Morton and Dunfermline. The departure of manager Jim Goodwin is a massive blow, but Alloa are hoping highly experienced coach Peter Grant can quickly fill that void. They have bolstered their attack with the reliable Liam Buchanan and fit-again Robert Thomson. Andy Stirling also brings width to their squad. With loan signings Sam Roscoe and Dario Zanatta departed, Alloa have gaps to fill, but again they will turn to the loan market for replacements. Alloa proved that they can survive in a full-time environment and have little to fear. They will never be challenging at the top but they are capable of staying up again if they score on a regular basis. Spirit and togetherness are Alloa’s strengths. It’s up to Peter Grant to maintain and enhance these qualities. Alloa’s squad is thin and a few injuries to key players such as Andy Graham could ruin their season. New manager Peter Grant is accustomed to working as an assistant at big clubs. Life at part-time Alloa should be an eye-opener for him.