Holidays Over

Last updated : 14 July 2003 By Firparkcorner

This idle time is now mercifully short compared to the horrors of twenty? years ago. In 1994, as an example, the gap from the last league game until the start of the new season was thirteen weeks. Nowadays a well timed few weeks in the sun allows a return in time to appreciate the ceremonial pre-season fixtures.

Some take the view that these affairs are a waste of a midsummer evening but not this fan.

Every season starts with new faces, new formations and a chance to renew acquaintances on the exotic terraces of Stenhousmuir and the like.

Not so many years ago the team's first season under Harri Kampman saw a hundred or so 'Well fans travel to Nairn to meet a team of strangers in Claret and Amber. "Haw Jimmy! Who are you?", was the oft repeated cry from the sidelines as the squad warmed up.

This season we have to welcome back old boys Burns and Craigen and to say hello to big Marshall in goal. And we get to see the Mighty 'Well visit New Douglas Park in Hamilton for the first time.

The more adventurous will follow the team abroad (well, that sounds a bit more exotic than visiting Carlisle!) and we have Fulham to entertain us at Fir Park.

Holidays have their place but it's good to be back.

Come on ye 'Well.