In 1902, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Ardrossan Celtic continued their rivalry, particularly in the North Ayrshire Juvenile League. Two new teams, Ardrossan Corinthians and Ardrossan Academy 1902, were founded while Winton Thistle played occasionally. Ardrossan and District Ancients played two charity games.

ARDROSSAN CELTIC v BARTONHOLM BRITANNIA MATCH ABANDONED
The league meeting between Ardrossan Celtic and Bartonholm Britannia (probably on 28 December 1901) on the ground of the former was stopped before time and will in all likelihood be replayed. When hostilities ceased, the Celtic lads were on the sure road to victory with six goals against two for the Bartonholm representatives.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

WINTON ROVERS' HATTIE'S SUSPENSION LIFTED
A Hattie of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers who was suspended for a month for rough tactics was free to resume play on Saturday (28 December 1902) but he was unable to do so being indisposed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

AUCHENHARVIE XI 1 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 3
The Rovers, minus four of their regular team, travelled Stevenstonwards on Saturday (28 December 1901) to play their return League fixture with Auchenharvie XI but as the official 'knight of the whistle' failed to make his appearance, the game took the form of a friendly. No doubt, the inclemency of the weather was responsible for the poor attendance of spectators. Auchenharvie, who had the breeze in their favour during the first 'thirty' were the first to open the scoring but had to act on the defensive for the greater part of the game. After many determined but ineffectual attempts to score, the Rovers ultimately scored the equaliser, Cochrane giving the finishing touch to a good run on the part of Simpson, the outside left. The Light Blues had a monopoly of the play after this and when the whistle sounded, fifteen minutes or so before time, they led by three goals to one.
A second report on the match is given below.
The Rovers, with several subs, met Auchenharvie XI at Stevenston under North Ayrshire League auspices but as the referee failed to turn up, the game took the form of a friendly which the Rovers won on somewhat easy terms.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

WINTON ROVERS HAPPY TO PLAY AT SALTCOATS
In reply to a paragraph which appeared in last week's issue under Seaside Ripples, in which it was stated that 'two teams about a mile of thereabouts to the west of Saltcoats would, on no account, consent to play the Seaside Rangers on Brewery Field', we are requested to say the Winton Rovers have not once this season refused to play at Saltcoats. The writer of the paragraph evidently forgets that the first game on Brewery Field this season was to have taken place between Seaside Rangers and Winton Rovers, that arrangements were practically made for the fixture and that at the last minute, it turned out that a Barrhead team were to be the visitors at Saltcoats on the Saturday in question. It should also be stated that was the only open date the Rovers have had since the North Ayrshire League started and when, owing to a disappointment, the Wintonians found themselves without a fixture, they on each occasion approached the Seaside officials in the first place with a view to arranging a match at Saltcoats or Ardrossan, only to be informed that the Rangers were already engaged. So far as we are aware, the finances of either of the teams hinted at are quite sound enough to bear the strain of a Saturday's absence from their own ground but the Seaside correspondent should bear in mind the fact that in order to fulfil their League fixtures, both teams are obliged to act the part of visitors every other Saturday while on the other hand, the 'White Brigade' have played the majority of their games this season on Brewery Field. We may add, in conclusion, that the Winton Parkers are quite prepared to journey to Saltcoats when they have an open date in order to accommodate the Rangers and they are quite confident that they can hold their own against the 'Gilded Youths' even at Brewery.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902
This paragraph was written under Echoes From Winton Park.

REMARKS NOT APPRECIATED
Judging from what we have heard, the remarks made under Seaside Ripples in last week's issue have been accepted and commented on by the teams located about a mile or thereabouts to the west of Saltcoats. The remarks were not appreciated by some of the trundlers in the 'town to the west'.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

WINTON ROVERS TO PLAY GALSTON BLUEBELL
The Rovers have entered the Galston and District Cup Competition. On Saturday night (28 December 1901), the draw in the first round of the ties took place and we are informed the Light Blues have been pitted against Galston Bluebell, the game to come off on the last Saturday of this month (25 January 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

WINTON ROVERS 5 - CLAREMONT ATHLETIC 2
WINTON ROVERS A TEAM 6 - ARDROSSAN CORINTHIANS 1
The holiday games played at Winton Park on New Year's Day (1 January 1902) were Rovers v Claremont Athletic and Rovers A v Ardrossan Corinthians. The results were Rovers 5 - Claremont 2 and Rovers A 6 - Corinthians 1.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 3 - MOTHERWELL HEARTS 1
ARDROSSAN WINTON THISTLE 4 - KILMARNOCK ROSEVALE 0
Celtic beat Motherwell Hearts by three to one and 'wee' Winton Thistle drubbed Kilmarnock Rosevale by four to nil (probably on 1 January 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS A TEAM 7 - IRVINE RANGERS 0
At Ardrossan yesterday (2 January 1902), the Winton Rovers A team defeated Irvine Rangers by seven goals to nil.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

CLUBS SHOULD GIVE MORE NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
Detention is sometimes contemptible and clubs which fail to give notice to another within the specified time should be made to suffer. Last week, we heard of a certain league club that gave the team which was to oppose them only two days' notice confirming a fixture. No one could have blamed the latter club had it arranged for another match instead.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL
The committee of the Scottish Juvenile Association met in Glasgow on Saturday evening (28 December 1902) and through the first round of the ties, the Ayrshire clubs have been pitted as follows.
Ladeside XI v Ardeer Thistle
Ardrossan Celtic v Troon Portland
Largs Neva v Hurlford Thistle
Springside v Kilwinning Rangers
Stewarton Victoria XI v Longbar Rangers
Dalry Athletic v Irvine Thistle
Vale of Garnock Strollers v first entry
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (27 December 1901).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		7	6	1	0	34	7	12
	Ardrossan Celtic		7	4	2	1	17	9	9
	Dalry Athletic		6	4	2	0	24	21	8
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		7	3	3	1	21	20	7
	Kilwinning Rangers		4	2	1	1	7	5	5
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		5	2	2	1	16	14	5
	Warner XI		4	2	2	0	8	16	4
	AuchenharvieXI		5	2	3	0	14	20	4
	Bartonholm Britannia		4	1	3	0	7	14	2
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		7	0	7	0	9	31	0

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
The North Ayrshire League fixtures of last week did not start as such in each case. One of these resolved itself into a friendly of about forty-five minutes while the other game, which was in League interests, was stopped before time. The above table is therefore the same as appeared in out last week's issue.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

KILWINNING RANGERS 10 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1
So far as we are aware, only one North Ayrshire League game was played and won last Saturday (4 January 1902), the issue of which has placed the Kilwinning Rangers two points higher on the league table. Their victims were Ardrossan Celtic who suffered defeat to the extent of ten goals to one. Compared with the result of the recent game at Ardrossan when the teams drew, the above issue shows a vast difference in superiority on the part of the Rangers.
A second report is given below.
On Saturday last (4 January 1902), the Kilwinning Rangers had Ardrossan Celtic at Kilwinning, the occasion being a return North Ayrshire League fixture. The teams were Celtic - Steed, McKiernan, Haggerty, McLaughlin, Brannan, Knox, (James) Hunter, McLeish, Cochrane, Smith and Wilson; Rangers - McGavin, Lindsay, Kerr, McLaughlan, Rae, Duff, Muirhead, Lynch, Lundie, Bannerman and Watt. The referee was Mr Craig, Dalry. The Rangers won the toss toss and elected to face the wind the first half. Celtic started the game twenty minutes behind the advertised time and getting well set, made a combined run on McGavin's charge but they shot past. Coming away from the goal kick, the Rangers instituted a fine combined effort but Steed saved Watt's shot in good style. Not to be denied, the Rangers kept up the pressure but Steed was instrumental in keeping them at bay when everyone else had been beaten. Hunter got away on the right wing and crossing at the right moment, their outside-left had no trouble in scoring the first goal of the game and Celtic were one up. This reverse wakened the Rangers and coming away, they rushed the ball into the Celtic goal when one of the backs fisted it out and the referee awarded a foul a foot outside the penalty line. Nothing, however, eventuated from the free kick but on keeping up the pressure, Lynch subsequently equalised with a good shot. There was only one team in it after this and that was not the Celtic. The Buffs appeared to do pretty much as they liked with their opponents and before half-time was announced, Lynch had Steed again beaten with goal number two. It looked very black for Celtic now as, with the wind in their favour the second half, there was not much chance of them from keeping the Rangers from running up a big score. After a short interval, Lundie restarted the game for the Rangers and immediately they had a run down the field in which the whole of the forwards took part. It was left to Lynch to give the ball the parting touch and he gave Steed no chance to save. The Buffs were now leading by two clear goals and it was early seen that this half was going to be a farce. Coming away once more, Lundie let in a shot which beat the goalkeeper but as one of the backs fisted the sphere out, the referee awarded a penalty which Watt converted into a fourth goal for the Rangers. The homesters did not seem to be satisfied with their success and having assumed the offensive again, Lynch scored with a low shot bringing their total up to five goals. This was scoring with a vengeance - three goals in five minutes and two of the Celtic players took it so sore to heart that they left the field. After this, Celtic played only one back which kept the Rangers at bay as, time after time, they were pulled up for offside. However, they succeeded on four other occasions which brought their score up to nine goals. With thirty minutes to go, other two Celtic players left the field, leaving the other seven to finish the game which they did in a very manly way, playing with only one back which trew the Buffs repeatedly offside. The homesters put an goal after goal but these were all disallowed with one exception. If all the goals scored had been granted, the Rangers would have beaten Celtic by something like thirty-eight to one. As it was, Rangers ran out winners of a game that was a disgrace to Celtic by ten to one. We must say the Celtic players who left the field acted very unsportsmanlike and especially after 'chaffing' Winton Rovers about their thirteen to nil defeat at Kilwinning last season. Had all the Celts remained on the field, something more than ten goals would have been scored against them
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902
This was Ardrossan Celtic's worst defeat to date.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (3 January 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		7	6	1	0	34	7	12
	Ardrossan Celtic		8	4	3	1	18	19	9
	Dalry Athletic		6	4	2	0	24	21	8
	Kilwinning Rangers		5	3	1	1	17	6	7
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		7	3	3	1	21	20	7
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		5	2	2	1	16	14	5
	Warner XI		4	2	2	0	8	16	4
	AuchenharvieXI		5	2	3	0	14	20	4
	Bartonholm Britannia		4	1	3	0	7	14	2
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		7	0	7	0	9	31	0

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

WILL WINTON ROVERS COME TO SALTCOATS?
We are pleased to observe that our recent paragraph anent club 'out west' struck home. Seaside will, we are certain, be delighted to entertain the Winton Parkers at Brewery Field on whatever date suits the Rovers' convenience, provided suitable notice is given. We noticed that the Rovers' correspondent states that the Winton Rovers have not once this season refused to play the Seaside at Saltcoats. That is correct in its own way. They have not once - but several times - refused to do so. The dates of said refusals and the names of those to whom they were made can be given if the Rovers so desire them. We are prepared to authenticate any other statements we have made. Referring to the remark that arrangements were practically made for a fixture between the Winton Rovers and the Seaside for the opening game at Brewery, such cannot be the case. The Seaside secretary had a fixture with Barrhead Fereneze for over a week prior to the opening. We have never heard of him having had a postcard from the Rovers offering their services for that date. The reference as to how many games Seaside have played at Brewery is, in our opinion, altogether without the pale of this controversy. The point in question is, or rather was, are the Rovers going to play a return at Saltcoats for the games the Seaside have already played at Winton Park? If, however, the Rovers' correspondent intends to take up these trivial matters, we would ask him to ascertain how many times the Rovers left their own pitch last season when there was no League and we fancy he will find that the various occurences could be counted on the fingers of one hand.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902
This report was written under Seaside Ripples.

WINTON ROVERS GAME WITH DALRY ATHLETIC POSTPONED
We understand Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Dalry Athletic were also advised to meet under league auspices but for some reason, owing perhaps to the new year holidays, the match which was down for settlement at Ardrossan was put off. The Rovers will find employment in league interests tomorrow (11 January 1902) when they will contest their claim for points with Bartonholm Britannia on the ground of the latter. Dow and Hattie will be absentees in the Rovers' quintet and subs will have to fill the vacancies otherwise the team is expected to be fully representative.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

LARGS NEVA 5 - LONGBAR RANGERS 0 at North Cresent Park, Ardrossan
The long-delayed undecided cup-tie between Largs Neva and Longbar Rangers in the initial round of the Irvine and District competition which the Association several weeks ago ordered to be replayed at Saltcoats came off on the ground of the Ardrossan Celtic last Saturday (4 January 1902). By the results of the two previous games, the above teams had tied hence their third meeting. A strong wind interrupted the play but nevertheless the Largs lads scored a substantial win, beating down their opponents to the extent of five goals to nil. Largs Neva meet Springside as their next opponents. A number of spectators turned out to witness the contest but seeing there were no games played at Ardrossan by the local combinations, we think the two visiting clubs erred in not announcing the match by posters.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

BARTONHOLM BRITANNIA 3 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 1
Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Bartonholm Britannia met on the latter's ground on Saturday (11 January 1902) and played their return North Ayrshire League fixture. The first game at Winton Park having result in a win for the Rovers by seven to one, it was generally expected that the Light Blues would give the Britannia lads a hard run for the points at the 'Holm and a goodly number of the Winton club's supporters journey thither on Saturday. Dow and Hattie were absent from the Rovers' front rank through indisposition and as subs, Steadman and Anderson partnered each other on the right wing. Bartonholm kicked off and the Rovers' defence was kept busy for a spell in repulsing the vigorous attack of the 'Holm forwards. On the pressure being relieved for a little, the Rovers steadied themselves and play was transferred to the other end but not for long as the bustling go-ahead play of their opponents quite upset any attempt at combination on the part of the Rovers. Once more, Welsh's charge was endangered and as a result of a high shot from the homesters' left wing, the sphere went sailing through the top corner of the goal thus opening the scoring department for Britannia. It was a soft goal. Nevertheless, it might with an effort might have been averted. Awakened by this unexpected reverse, the Rovers now became the aggressors and on more than one occasion had hard lines in not gaining the equaliser. An exciting scrimmage took place in front of Britannia's citadel but the custodian ultimately cleared in safety and the Rovers once more retired pointless. Several long drives brought the sphere again in the vicinity of the Winton stronghold and, though temporarily checked, the Bartonholm forwards rushed matters, Welsh being beaten for the second time with a shot which it would have been well nigh impossible for him to have saved. Restarting from the meridian, the Light Blues fought hard to find the coveted spot but when Anderson neatly headed the ball through, the goal was disallowed for offside - hard luck. Nothing daunted, however, they returned to the attack and shortly before half-time their efforts were rewarded. No further scoring was effected this half and the teams changed ends with Bartonholm leading by two goals to one. On the resumption of hostilities, the Rovers started briskly and it seemed as if they would have matters all their own way. It was no use however. It would have gone better with them had they adopted the kick-and-rush tactics like their opponents instead of attempting to play a game of combinations on a pitch which was covered with numberless hillocks and hollows and therefore quite unsuitable for that sort of play. Bartonholm made several raids on the Rovers' citadel and the outcome of one of these was the addition of goal number three to their total. They were awarded a penalty kick a little later for McMurray handling the ball within the twelve yards line but on the kick being taken, the sphere went soaring over the bar. The Rovers time and again bombarded the homesters' goal, numerous chances being thrown away by miserable shooting on the part of the forwards. Reid as centre-forward was inclined to work too much by himself and at times kept manoeuvring the ball longer than was necessary. Twice the Bartonholm custodian overstepped the limit when running with the ball in his hands and in each case a foul was awarded the Rovers inside the penalty line, both of which were unproductive. Notwithstanding their repeated attempts to score, the Rovers failed to reduce their opponents' lead and the game ended in a win for Bartonholm by three goals to one. Anderson and Simpson were the pick of the Winton forwards and McGill was easily the best of the halves while Carmichael, as usual, figured prominently in the back division. Tomorrow, Saturday (18 January 1902), the Light Blues will act the part of visitors, Irvine being their destination where they will engage Saint Andrew's in League interests.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS A TEAM 2 - KILWINNING RANGERS RESERVES 3
The Rovers second string made a very creditable appearance against the Kilwinning Rangers Reserves at Winton Park on Saturday (11 January 1902). A well-contested game ended in favour of the visitors by three goals to two.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

SILENT CONTEMPT FOR ALLEGATIONS AGAINST WINTON ROVERS
The contributor of Seaside Ripples is apparently not satisfied with the reply we vouchsafed to his remarks with regard to the Winton Rovers and Seaside Rangers and still persists in asserting that the Light Blues have repeatedly refused to play at Brewery Park, a charge which is utterly without foundation. The Rovers, when not otherwise engaged, would be only too pleased to meet their Saltcoats friends under any conditions if asked in a proper manner as the following remarks will show. The Seaside chronicler further states that the Rangers' secretary had arranged for Barrhead Fereneze to open Brewery Park a week or so before the game took place and denies that the Rovers had been asked and had consented to play at Saltcoats on that occasion. What then induced the Seasiders to sent a letter requesting the Winton Parkers to journey to Saltcoats on the day in question and why did a paragraph appear in the Herald on 1 November under Seaside Notes stating that the Light Blues were to open the new ground? Truly, the ignorance of this Seaside admirer is deplorable. In his opinion, the main question is - Are Rovers willing to play the Seasiders at Brewery Field in return for the games played at Winton Park last season? Did not the Rovers play the White Brigade twice at South Beach last season, that being the only pitch at the Rangers' disposal at that time? The Seaside correspondent has either a very bad memory or he had little idea of what he is talking about. It would seem from the position he has taken up that his object is to create friction between two clubs which have hitherto been on quite friendly terms and lest he feel inclined to impose further on the good nature of the readers of this paper by again bringing up the matter, we may state that his remarks will be treated with silent contempt.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Two league games were played last Saturday (11 January 1902) and Bartonholm placed two points to their register at the expense of Ardrossan Winton Rovers. To beat Bartonholm by seven to one in their first match and then go under by three to one is hardly consistent play on the part of the Rovers. Ardrossan Celtic were disappointed last Saturday (11 January 1902). Posters were issued announcing a League match with Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle at North Crescent Park but the latter having an Irvine and District Cup tie to play, the League fixture had to stand down. This looks a bit hard on the Celts after billing the match. Celtic play Dalry Athletic at Ardrossan on Saturday first (18 January 1902) under League auspices. The Celts' new match secretary is James Aitken, 45 Quay Street, Saltcoats. Judging from the scores, the Winton Rovers A Team seem to have performed as well on Saturday against the Kilwinning Rangers Reserves as the 'Gilded Youths' of Saltcoats. The youthful Rovers only lost the game by the odd goal.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (10 January 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		7	6	1	0	34	7	12
	Kilwinning Rangers		6	4	1	1	26	7	9
	Ardrossan Celtic		8	4	3	1	18	19	9
	Dalry Athletic		6	4	2	0	24	21	8
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		8	3	4	1	22	23	7
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		6	2	2	2	16	14	5
	Bartonholm Britannia		6	2	3	1	10	15	5
	Warner XI		4	2	2	0	8	16	4
	AuchenharvieXI		5	2	3	0	14	20	4
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		8	0	8	0	10	40	0

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
A meeting of the North Ayrshire League Association was held on Friday evening last (10 January 1902) at which a new secretary was appointed in room of Mr H Leckie, retired. The new secretary of the League is Mr R Maule, Saltcoats and club secretaries are asked to make a note of the new appointment. We understand it was agreed that the secretary of the League communicate with the officials of the Warner XI before any other club be admitted to the membership. This is a wise decision. It leaked out at the meeting that Auchenharvie XI may also have to withdraw from the League and should each of the Stevenston representatives retire, two vacancies will thus be made.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS FOOTBALL ROW CONTINUES
We regret to observe that the writer of the Echoes From Winton Park still prates about our recent assertions having no foundations. We think we offered to procure for the Rovers facts dealing with these but he does not seem to have noticed same. We cannot do anything further than this. Perhaps his parrot-like cry is better policy for him than what entering into details would be. As to the letter, he says the Rovers received from the Seasiders, we can truly say that same letter was never sent by the Seaside secretary. Assuming, if only for the sake of argument, that such a letter had been sent, common courtesy only demands a written reply thereto. Such a reply was never received, so far as we can learn by the Saltcoats club. Therefore, if the Rovers got a letter and never replied, it does not take a person of anything beyond ordinary intelligence to make this read refusal. With reference to the paragraphs under Saltcoats Notes appearing on 1 November last, we may mention do not know from what source they emanated that week. If the Rovers' correspondents eyes had been open, he would have seen stated in the Herald of the following week to that which is referred to under Our Juveniles, that the writer of these particular notes had evidently not been 'in the know'. That practically sized up matters. We would enquire if the Seaside Rangers had the monopoly of South Beach last season. If so, how did it happen that the Rovers were also playing their matches there at that time? What price bad memory? We gave the credit of one game to each team at the first time of writing. We note his statements as to treating any further remarks of ours with silent contempt. A proceeding of this kind we recognise as a very convenient loophole of escape from a subject upon which he is altogether not well versed. It is indeed contemptible.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902
This report was written under the heading Seaside Ripples.

IRVINE SAINT ANDREW'S 3 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 1
Last Saturday (18 January 1902), the Rovers journeyed to the Royal Burgh in League interests and, as the result of the game, sacrificed a brace of points to Irvine Saint Andrew's. The teams were: Saint Andrews - Miller, Johnston, W Wilson, G Wilson, Kelly, Cowan, McGill, Semple, McGregor, McKelvie and Moor. Rovers - Love, Carmichael, Murray, Bennett, Findlay, McGill, Dow, Anderson, Reid, Steedman and Simpson. Saint Andrew's, having won the toss, the Rovers kicked off but did not male much headway, being forced to act on the defensive a little later. A mistake on the part of one of the backs ended disastrously for the Light Blues as the Saints' outside right taking advantage of the opening had little difficulty in sending the sphere through and thus opened the scoring for Saint Andrew's a few minutes from the start. From the re-commencement, the Rovers made strenuous efforts to get on equal terms and had one or two good tries which, had luck favoured them, might have been converted into goals. The play once more drifted into the Rovers' territory and as the outcome of a well-placed corner kick, the Irvineites scored for the second time in the game. During the remainder of this half, the Rovers had a monopoly of the play but only once did they succeed in finding the desired spot and this was through the instrumentality of Simpson. Many were the attempts of the Light Blues to augment their total but bad luck - and equally bad shooting - proved a barrier against success. The interval arrived with Saint Andrew's leading by two goals to one. The play in the second half was more open, both ends receiving their share of attention. The Rovers had several promising runs but the forwards were exceedingly weak at goal and many good chances were thrown away in consequence. A spirited breakaway by the Saints once more culminated in the downfall of the Winton stronghold - a success which put the issue of the game beyond doubt. The Light Blues, however, time and again essayed to find an opening but their efforts proved fruitless. The play was of a give-and-take nature during the remainder of the game which ended in a win for Saint Andrew's by three goals to one. There was very little good football shown on either side, science being conspicuous by its absence and the occasional display of temper - both by players and spectators - did not tend to improve matters. The decisions of the referee, Mr Paterson, Kilwinning, especially in the first half were not satisfactory to either side. Everything taken into consideration, the Rovers were rather unfortunate to lose by two goals as they certainly had hard lines on various occasions. Nevertheless, the Saints played a winning game whereas the Wintonians did not. The backs and half backs of the Ardrossan team played consistently throughout but it was otherwise with the front rank. Instead of trying to assist one another, one or two of the forwards displayed a selfishness when on the ball which hindered rather than helped their side and we hope that in future games unprofitable play of this kind will be avoided. Galston Bluebell will probably be the visitors to Winton Park tomorrow, Saturday (25 January 1902) where they will try conclusions with the Rovers as to which of the two teams will qualify for the second round of the Galston and District Cup competition. The Rovers are expected to be fully represented on this occasion although there will be a much-needed rearrangement of the front rank.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 4 - DALRY ATHLETIC 1
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902
This game was probably played on 17 January 1902 but no report or score was given in the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald of 24 January 1902. The score was deduced from the League table.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (17 January 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		7	6	1	0	34	7	12
	Ardrossan Celtic		9	5	3	1	22	20	11
	Kilwinning Rangers		6	4	1	1	26	7	9
	Dalry Athletic		7	4	3	0	25	25	8
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		9	3	5	1	23	26	7
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		6	2	2	2	16	14	5
	Bartonholm Britannia		6	2	3	1	10	15	5
	Warner XI		4	2	2	0	8	16	4
	AuchenharvieXI		5	2	3	0	14	20	4
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		9	1	8	0	13	41	2

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
We have heard it stated that a couple of clubs in the North Ayrshire League have been granted the points through another club in that body failing to fulfil League fixtures and as these are not included in the above table, perhaps Mr Maule will kindly supply the needed information.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
A meeting of the North Ayrshire League Committee will be held tonight, Friday (24 January 1902) in Mr Harris's Station Hotel, Saltcoats when it is expected that Mr R Maule will take over the duties of secretary.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
So far as we have learned, four clubs were in the hunt for North Ayrshire League points last Saturday (17 January 1902) and the results of the two games found Ardrossan Celtic and Irvine Saint Andrews on the right side of the ledger. The games were played at Ardrossan and Irvine and the teams that suffered defeat were Dalry Athletic and Ardrossan Winton Rovers. Last week, we expressed the hope that the tide would soon turn in favour of the Irvine Saints but we did not think their first League win was to be at the expense of the Winton Rovers. Despite the rumours that Ardrossan Celtic were in sore straits regarding the mustering of a team, the result of their undecided League game with Dalry Athletic seems to convey a different impression. We expect the 'green and white' brigade to finish a goal or two ahead of their guests and opponents - Troon Portland - in the Scottish Juvenile tie tomorrow (25 January 1902). The display of the Winton Rovers at Irvine on Saturday (18 January 1902) was a disappointing one. However, we look for a different exhibition tomorrow (25 January 1902) when the Light Blues will tackle Galston Bluebell in the first stage of the Galston and District Cup competition at Ardrossan. Hattie is expected to resume playing tomorrow and this should put new life into the front rank. The Wintonians should graduate into the second round. Now then, 'Spider!'. We understand the Winton Rovers intend holding their first annual social and dance in the Town Hall on Friday 21 February next to which a number of friends will be invited.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

SCOTTISH AND GALSTON JUVENILE CUP DRAWS
A couple of juvenile competitions will be inaugurated tomorrow (25 January 1902). We refer to the Scottish and Galston Association cup ties and as the majority of the North Ayrshire League clubs are more or less interested in each of these competitions, only one League match is down for decision tomorrow, Saturday (25 January 1902), namely Bartonholm Britannia v Irvine Saint Andrew's. The Ayrshire clubs in the Scottish Juvenile competition have been drawn as follows.
   Ladeside XI v Ardeer Thistle
   Ardrossan Celtic v Troon Portland
   Largs Neva v Hurlford Thistle
   Springside v Kilwinning Rangers
   Stewarton Victoria XI v Longbar Rangers
   Dalry Athletic v Irvine Thistle
   Vale of Garnock Strollers v first entry
The ties in the preliminary stage of the Galston competition are as undernoted.
   Cronberry Thistle v Troon Portland
   Ladyton Star v Muirkirk Ironclads
   Irvine Saint Andrews v Springside Helena
   Gauchalland Thistle v Vale of Irvine
   Ardrossan Winton Rovers v Galston Bluebell
   Vale of Garnock v Auchinleck Rangers
   Darvel v Skares Burnton Lads
   Hurlford United - a bye
Owing to the Scottish Juvenile ties on Saturday first (25 January 1902), several of the above are likely to be postponed, the premier Association having first claim on the clubs.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (24 January 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Celtic		11	7	3	1	22	20	15
	Dalry Athletic		10	7	3	0	25	25	14
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		12	6	5	1	23	26	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Bartonholm Britannia		10	5	4	1	11	18	11
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		13	5	8	0	16	42	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
It will be noticed that the above table has undergone a complete change this week owing to the withdrawal of Auchenharvie and Warner XI from the League. The teams that played Auchenharvie were Ardeer Thistle, Ardrossan Celtic, Bartonholm Britannia, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Dalry Athletic and Warner XI played Ardeer Thistle, Ardrossan Celtic, Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle and Irvine Saint Andrews. The League agreed that all fixtures with Auchenharvie and Warner XI be considered as played so that points have been added to the registers of the respective clubs in the above table as follows - Kilwinning Rangers 8, Dalry Athletic 6, Winton Rovers 6, Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle 6, Bartonholm Britannia 6, Irvine Saint Andrew's 6, Ardrossan Celtic 6 and Ardeer Thistle 4.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
At the meeting of the North Ayrshire Juvenile League on Friday evening last (24 January 1902), it was agreed that owing to Auchenharvie XI and Warner XI withdrawing from the League, each club that has not played home and away games with both teams mentioned add two point to their total for games not played. The League fixtures for Saturday first (1 February 1902) were arranged as follows: Winton Rovers v Dalry Athletic, Eglinton Thistle v Bartonholm Britannia, Irvine Saint Andrew's v Ardrossan Celtic. Two trial teams were selected to represent North Ayrshire in view with the inter-county matches with Renfrewshire and Lanarkshire. The Trial match takes place at Wandhouse Field, Stevenston on 8 February and the teams are as follows: Red and White: goal - Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; backs - Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Kerr, Kilwinning Rangers; half backs - Weir, Bartonholm Britannia; Auld, Ardeer Thistle and Rae, Kilwinning Rangers; forwards - Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Gray, Dalry Athletic; Kilpatrick, Springside; Blair, Largs Neva and Tait, Ardrossan Celtic. Aitken is captain. Blue and White: goal - Rae, Bartonholm Britannia; backs - Carmichael, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; half-backs - Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrew's; Lusk, Vale of Garnock Strollers and McGill, Ardrossan Winton Rovers; forwards - (James) Hunter, Ardrossan Celtic; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Watt, Kilwinning Rangers. Lusk is captain. The next meeting of the North Ayrshire League will be held on Friday 14 February.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Ardrossan Winton Rovers were without a game last Saturday (24 January 1902) owing to Galston Bluebell having an Irvine and District tie to play. The Rovers received notice on Friday morning (23 January 1902) from the Galston club saying that they would be unable to play their Galston and District cup tie for the above reason. The reason we would say was quite good enough for the postponement of a tie but surely more notice might have been given the Rovers in order to allow them some time to make arrangements for another fixture. So far as we learn, this postponed tie will not be played tomorrow (1 February 1902) either as we understand the Winton Park Rovers will find employment at home in North Ayrshire League interests. Their opponents will be Dalry Athletic and it is presumed Rovers will have to be in their best form to win the coveted points. Seeing that Irvine Saint Andrew's have displayed winning form in their last two League engagements, it will be interesting to certain clubs to notice how Ardrossan Celtic will fare against the Saints. The Celts, we believe, journey to the Ancient and Royal Burgh on Saturday first (1 February 1902) to contest their claim for League points with the Saints.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 4 - TROON PORTLAND 2
Ardrossan Celtic, in the first round of the Scottish Juvenile Cup, had a bit of luck in their tie with Troon Portland. The Troon lads were beaten by four to two but a draw would have given a better indication of the run of the play.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

IRVINE SAINT ANDREW'S 3 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1
The Ardrossan Celtic lads earned a couple of points on Saturday (1 February 1902) where the Rovers forfeited these a week previous. Irvine Saint Andrew's were the Celts' victims, the Saints going down on their own pitch by three goals to one. The game, we are led to understand, was a bit boisterous and that the referee had occasion to order Brannan of the Celtic eleven off the field. The Celts, however, cull pleasure at the thought of going two points higher on the League ladder and will wait with patience the Association's decision on Brannan's exposition.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902
Unusually, there was not a more detailed report.

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 3 - DALRY ATHLETIC 0
This League game between Dalry Athletic and Winton Rovers took place on Saturday last ((1 February 1902) despite the efforts of Jack Frost to the contrary and this was the only game played in the neighbourhood, there was a gratifying turnout of spectators. In order to fill the vacancies caused by the absence of two of their regular players, Seasider Tait obliged his old friends by again donning the blue jersey and Barclay of the A was introduced as centre-forward. Dalry was also under usual strength. The Athletic, having won the toss, decided to play downhill in the first half and about fifteen minutes after the advertised time, the ball was sent off on its uncertain mission. In the first few exchanges, both ends received a brief visit and on the Winton forwards getting away, Barclay got possession of the leather and beat the Dalry custodian close in. He was clearly offside, however, and the point went for nothing. The pressure was relieved for a spell yet the homesters kept up the attack and after a clever bit of work by the right wing, Dow opened the scoring for the Light Blues with a fine shot from the touch-line. On resuming again, Dalry evidently meant business and the forwards were soon bearing down on Welsh's charge which, however, was kept intact by the sound defence of Carmichael and Murray. In fact, the Rovers' keeper seldom handled the ball in the first half. The play was of a give-and-take character after this and Dalry, striving hard to get on equal terms with their opponents and the Light Blues being just as eager to increase their lead. On the play being once more transferred into the Dalry lines, a free kick, taken by Murray about thirty yards out from the goal resulted in a second point being registered by the homesters after a short but exciting scrimmage. Although the Athletic forwards had several promising runs, they were not at any time dangerous in their shooting and the interval was reached with Rovers leading by two goals to nil. Dalry commenced the second half briskly, the Winton stronghold being immediately besieged, but this state of matters did not last long as the home defence responded to all that was requited of the. The Light Blues gradually forced their way to the opposite end and after about fifteen minutes play, the Dalry citadel was captured for the third time. In order to strengthen their attack and at the same time hamper the movements of the Rovers' forwards by the offside bogey, the visitors played only one back, Aitken going into the front rank. Towards the close, Dalry infused a little more spirit into their play and the locals fell away somewhat and in this respect, a little more training might prove beneficial. The visitors made repeated attempts to find an opening, Welsh saving cleverly three times in quick succession and a goal at this stage would have been no more than Athletic deserved. Shortly afterwards, the whistle sounded for time and the game thus ended in a win for the Wintonians by three goals to nil. The Rovers were, no doubt, the better team on the day's display and they were value the brace of points they have added in their League total by the victory. Barclay made a creditable show for the Light Blues and as centre-forward, he should be persevered with. Bennett played a most effective game at centre-half. The backs and right wing were best for the Athletic. The Ardeer contingent was down in force and the Jags gave expression to their wounded feelings regarding the inter-county trial selection by subjecting Carmichael to a volley of adverse criticism. The Rovers have an 'off' day tomorrow (8 February 1902) owing to the trail game at Stevenston but on the following Saturday, 15 February, the postponed Galston and District Cup tie with the Bluebell takes place at Winton Park.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (31 January 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardrossan Celtic		12	8	3	1	25	21	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		10	7	4	0	25	28	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Bartonholm Britannia		10	5	4	1	11	17	11
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	8	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902
The previous week's League table shows that Bartonholm Britannia had conceded 18 goals yet the one above showns 17.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Three North Ayrshire League matches were down for decision last Saturday (1 February 1902) and as far as we have heard, despite the unfavourable weather conditions, two of the fixtures were trundled off. The Ardrossan Winton Rovers rose to the occasion and in snatching the full complement of points from Dalry Athletic at Winton Park, the Rovers have imitated their Celtic brethren in that respect. The Ardrossan Celtic lads earned a couple of points on Saturday (1 February 1902) where the Rovers forfeited these a week previous. Irvine Saint Andrew's were the Celts' victims, the Saints going down on their own pitch by three goals to one. The game, we are led to understand, was a bit boisterous and that the referee had occasion to order Brannan of the Celtic eleven off the field. The Celts, however, cull pleasure at the thought of going two points higher on the League ladder and will wait with patience the Association's decision on Brannan's exposition. The first social and dance in connection with the Ardrossan Celtic club will be held tonight (7 February 1902) in the Town Hall and on 21 February, the Winton Rovers intend to hold a similar function in the same hall. The next meeting of the North Ayrshire Juvenile League is fixed for 14 February.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

JUVENILE TRIAL MATCHES
The two juvenile trial matches which take place at Wandhouse Field, Stevenston and Riverside Park, Galston respectively will be the leading juvenile events in the county on Saturday (8 February 1902) and as all clubs within the jurisdiction of the Ayrshire Juvenile Association are requested not to play games on this date, it is expected that the followers of juvenile football will be out in full force at the respective places of meeting. These trial matches have been arranged for the purpose of aiding the Ayrshire Juvenile Association to select teams to oppose Renfrewshire and Lanarkshire representations in the forthcoming inter-county matches and it is anticipated that each player in Saturday's games will do his best to find favour with the selectors. We give the names of the players chosen to represent the four elevens as follows. Wandhouse Field, Stevenston. Red and White: goal - Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; backs - Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Kerr, Kilwinning Rangers; half backs - Weir, Bartonholm Britannia; Auld, Ardeer Thistle and Rae, Kilwinning Rangers; forwards - Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Gray, Dalry Athletic; Kilpatrick, Springside; Blair, Largs Neva and Tait, Ardrossan Celtic. Blue and White: goal - Rae, Bartonholm Britannia; backs - Carmichael, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; half-backs - Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrew's; Lusk, Vale of Garnock Strollers and McGill, Ardrossan Winton Rovers; forwards - (James) Hunter, Ardrossan Celtic; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Watt, Kilwinning Rangers. Riverside Park, Galston. Blue and White: goal - Ireland, Galston Bluebell; backs - Stewart, Hurlford Thistle) and Coleman Stewarton Victoria XI; half-backs - Kenna, Maybole Westend; Orr, Kilmarnock Portland and Boyd, Hurlford Thistle; forwards - Fisher, Maybole Westend; White , Galston Ladyton Star; Armour, Hazelbank; Turnbull, Hurlford Thistle and Morrison, Skares Burnton Lads. Black and White: goal- McTurk, Cumnock Thistle; backs - Cook, Maybole Westend and Gillan, Skares Burnton Lads; half-backs - Brown, Hurlford Thistle; Henderson, Maybole Westend and Findlay, Galston Ladyton Star; forwards - White, Hurlford Thistle; Baird, Kilmarnock Haslebank; Rutherford, Galston Ladyton Star; Vaines, Kilmarnock Portland and McGarvie, Maybole Westend.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC FOOTBALL CLUB SOCIAL
The Ardrossan Town Hall was on Friday evening (7 February 1902), the scene of the annual social and dance held in connection with the local Celtic Football Club. Followers of the winter pastime attended in full force. Mr J M McPhail, who acted as chairman, was accompanied on the platform by a few members of the Ayrshire Football Association. When duty had been done to the sumptuous repast that had been provided, an enjoyable programme of songs and recitations was gone through, the artistes being Messrs Armstrong, Aitken and Cochrane, Mrs Murray and the Misses Markie and Cunningham. The dance, which was attended by about fifty couples, thereafter took place.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (8 February 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardrossan Celtic		12	8	3	1	25	21	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		11	7	4	0	25	28	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Bartonholm Britannia		10	5	4	1	11	17	11
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
The above table is the same as appeared in last week's issue, no games being played on Saturday (8 February 1902).    
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Juvenile football, in fact, may be said to have been at a standstill in consequence of the severe weather. Even had the weather been favourable, clubs identified with the Ayrshire Juvenile Association would have been idle as the request went forth from that body that no matches were to be played. This was owing to the Trial Matches arranged to come off on Saturday last (8 February 1902) at Stevenston and Galston respectively and, despite the frost and snow, the match at Stevenston actually took place. This was contrary to general expectations - even one of the selected players, McGill of Winton Rovers, concluded in his own mind that the match would be postponed and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic, filled the vacancy in the Blue and White Eleven. It was not a day to test the merits of the respective players but considering the conditions, the game was an interesting, and at times amusing, one and we have no doubt several of the players will run a good change of securing inter-county honours. The Red and White jersey eleven won the game by the narrow margin of three goals to two. We hear that the Association members were not satisfied with last Saturday's trial as a test and intend to have another. As the Juvenile Association meet on Saturday first (15 February 1902), this matter will likely be brought up before the members. The members and friends of the Ardrossan Celtic, as we mentioned in our last issue, held their first social and dance in the Town Hall on Friday evening last (7 February 1902) and we believe a very jocund meeting was the result. We understand Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Galston Bluebell have arranged to play their postponed tie in the Galston and District Cup competition on Saturday first (15 February 1902) at Winton Park. The Rovers are expected to be represented by the following team - Welsh, Carmichael, McMurray, Bennett, Findlay, McGill, Dow, Wilkie, Reid, Templeton and Simpson. By another week, patrons of the game at Ardrossan will have an opportunity of seeing that promising juvenile combination as the Vale of Garnock Strollers. Ardrossan Celtic will contest their claim with the Vale lads for a place in the third round of the Scottish Juvenile cup competition. Tomorrow (15 February 1902), we are told, Ardrossan Celtic and Bartonholm find employment in North Ayrshire League interests, this game having been arranged to take place at Ardrossan at the last meeting of the Association. Seeing that the Rovers will be at home, the Celts would perhaps do better to pay a visit to Bartonholm.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

SCOTTISH JUVENILE CUP DRAW
The draw for the second round of the Scottish Juvenile ties was made at the above meeting and the Ayrshire clubs were pitted thus.
   Ardeer Thistle v Stewarton Victoria XI
   Ardrossan Celtic v Vale of Garnock Strollers
   Springside or Kilwinning Rangers v Hurlford Thistle
   Dalry Thistle - a bye
The ties are to be played on Saturday 22 February.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 6 - GALSTON BLUEBELL 1
At Winton Park on Saturday last (15 February 1902), before a good attendance of spectators, Winton Rovers and Galston Bluebell met and played off their tie in the first round of the Galston and District Cup competition. The ground was in a deplorable state with mud and not suitable for a game of any sort but as the referee declared the pitch playable and as the Galston team were desirous that a cup-tie should be played, the game proceeded as such. The teams lined up as follows: Bluebell - Bruce, J Anderson, G Anderson, Howie, Duncan, Bryce, Williamson, King, Paton, Ramage and McPherson. Rovers - Welsh, Carmichael, McMurray, Findlay, Bennett, McGill, Dow, Wilkie, Reid, Templeton and Simpson. On the ball being set in motion, the visitors immediately assumed the aggressive and Welsh and his colleagues had a rather busy time of it defending for a time. Once or twice, their citadel narrowly escaped downfall but after Bluebell had forced a corner which was unproductive, the pressure was at length relieved. The visitors were not to have matters all their own way, however, and good work by the Rovers' forwards brought play into the vicinity of their opponents' goal. Although temporarily checked, they returned to the attack and a good cross shot from Dow was caught up by Reid who headed the sphere safely between the uprights. The referee, however, seemed to think that the centre-forward was offside and therefore the point was disallowed, much to the chagrin of the locals. The game continued on even lines for a spell but that spell was soon broken by the Rovers again taking up the running. When about fifteen yards from goal, Reid got possession of the ball and his parting shot was safely piloted through by Templeton who thus registered the initial goal of the match. Restarting from the meridian, play once more drifted into the visitors' lines and the efforts of the homesters were again rewarded, the ball being rushed through by several of the forwards. Towards the close of the first half, the Bluebell at length succeeded in breaking through their opponents' defence and to the outside left who appeared to be the pot shot of the team was the task entrusted of scoring their first and only goal which was the result of a swift, high shot, Welsh's lack of inches being mainly responsible for his inability to save. At this stage of the game, a regrettable incident occurred which spoiled any pleasure the spectators had in witnessing the 'mud-larking' display. It happened thus. A Galston player deliberately kicked a Rover and, as the latter resented this horse-like conduct, the onlookers were about to be treated to an exposition of the 'noble art' when the referee interfered and the delinquents were ordered off the field. We do not think, however, that the offence justified such an extreme step on the part of the 'knight of the whistle'. A caution to the offenders would have sufficed. The game was resumed but no further scoring was effected in this half and the teams changed ends with the score standing two to one in favour of the Light Blues. The commencement of the second period saw the Rovers again making the pace and from this point to the finish of the game, the visitors' stronghold was subjected to an almost continual bombardment. The Rovers were awarded a penalty kick for one of the visitors handling the ball within the twelve yards limit and from this, Reid added a third goal to the homesters' total. Seldom did the Bluebell forwards get over midfield and Welsh had a slack time of it between the 'sticks' compared with Bruce at the other end, the latter being kept continually on the alert. As the game proceeded, the condition of the ground got from bad to worse and several times the ball stuck fast in the mud when on its way through the goal. Simpson, Dow and Carmichael each had a point to their credit and still the Galstonians failed to extricate themselves, the game ending in a substantial win for the Rovers by six goals to one. The Light Blues, we understand, will have another opportunity of trying their mettle against their near and dear neighbours, the Celts, in the course of a week or so and Trainer Fullarton is already applying the flesh gloves with increased vigour in view of the coming tussle. The Rovers journey to Largs tomorrow (22 February 1902) per the 2:16 train from South Beach to play Largs Neva. As the occasion is only a friendly, one or two of the Winton Parkers will have on off day and subs will be introduced to fill the vacancies.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 10 - BARTONHOLM BRITANNIA 1
The Ardrossan Celtic and Bartonholm Britannia teams were ordered to replay their recently unfinished league game at North Crescent Park last Saturday (15 February 1902) but when the visitors arrived, a little behind the advertised hour, they were minus several of their players. Their eleven, however, was made up with substitutes and having granted the coveted points to the Celts, a friendly game was started before a thin attendance of onlookers. From the very start, the Celtic lads took the game in hand and although playing against the wind, the Britannia youths could not prevent the Celts from scoring repeatedly during the early stages of the game. The field was in a somewhat soft condition but despite this fact, the Celts continued to outplay their opponents and at the interval had a quintet of goals against a solitary point for Bartonholm. With the breeze against them in the second period, there were small hopes of Bartonholm making up the leeway they had lost and this opinion was proved to the letter. The Celts were masters of the situation throughout and at the close romped home somewhat easy winners by the very substantial score of ten goals to one. As the score represents, the game was a rather one-sided affair but it served to keep the Celts in trim for a tougher fight tomorrow (23 February 1902). The occasion will be a Scottish Juvenile Cup tie and in the Vale of Garnock Strollers, the Celts have a team to face that will, it is expected, stretch them to the very utmost. It is to be hoped then that the Celtic lads will step on the arena tomorrow fully prepared for a hard engagement and at the close have their efforts crowned with a glorious victory.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902
This was Ardrossan Celtic's best victory to date.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (15 February 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		11	7	4	0	25	28	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Bartonholm Britannia		11	5	5	1	12	27	11
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
The above table is the same as appeared in last week's issue, no games being played on Saturday (8 February 1902).    
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Ardrossan Celtic, as will be noticed from the above table, are the present leaders of the North Ayrshire Juvenile League body. Two points have been added to their register this week, got at the expense of Bartonholm, Britannia. Bartonholm, were are told, turned up several players short and subs had to be procured. They, too conceded the point and it is said the game took the form of a friendly, the outcome of which was a runaway victory for the Celtic lads. The two local fields were in a most deplorable state last Saturday (15 February 1902) - veritable quagmires - and the appearance which the players presented was most pitiable. So soft were the pitches that the ball would not roll in the sea of mud yet both the Rovers and the Celts scored big victories. At Winton Park, the Rovers had Galston Bluebell as their opponents, the occasion being a delayed Galston and District Cup tie and here the crowd of spectators was much greater than at Celtic Park. The Rovers won the game easily in the course of which a couple of players were ordered off the field for fighting. According to the draw, Ardrossan Celtic should have Vale of Garnock Strollers as their guests and opponents tomorrow (22 February 1902), the occasion being a tie in the second stage of the Scottish Juvenile Cup competition. We believe the Vale is a team of good parts and we hope to see the Celtic lads at their best on Saturday first. We hear that matches have been arranged for the benefit of the North Ayrshire League to take place at an early date between Ardeer Thistle and Kilwinning Rangers and Ardrossan Celtic and Winton Rovers, the ground to be tossed for by the respective clubs. As the rivalry between the above clubs is of a keen description and as the teams are very well matched in point of merit, each of these contests should be the signal for a large turnout of spectators. We would here express the hope that the play of each side will be of such a nature as will command itself to the general public and that nothing unruly will characterise either game.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS' SOCIAL AND DANCE
Tonight, Friday (22 February 1902), the members and friends of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers hold the first social and dance in connection with the club. Councillor George Guthrie will preside.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

SCOTTISH JUVENILE CUP DRAW
The Ayrshire clubs expected to take part in the Scottish ties tomorrow (22 February 1902) have been drawn thus.
   Ardeer Thistle v Stewarton Victoria XI
   Ardrossan Celtic v Vale of Garnock Strollers
   Kilwinning Rangers v Hurlford Thistle
   Dalry Thistle, having been awarded a bye, go into the third round of the competition.
Both Ardeer and Vale of Garnock are in the running for Scottish honours, some are of the opinion that each of these clubs will qualify for the third round. What have Ardrossan Celts and Stewarton Vics got to say to this opinion?
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

GALSTON AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATION MEETING
At a meeting of the Galston and District Association held at Galston on Saturday night last (15 February 1902), the draw for the second round of the ties resulted as follows.
   Irvine Saint Andrews or Springside v Hurlford Thistle
   Darvel Thistle v Cronberry or Troon Portland
   Ladyton Star v Vale of Garnock Strollers
Ardrossan Winton Rovers or Galston Bluebell v Vale of Irvine
The ties are to be played on or before 8 March. Since we received the above draw, we are informed that Galston Bluebell have lodged a protest with the Galston and District Association respecting their cup tie with Ardrossan Winton Rovers last Saturday (15 February 1902). The protest has been hatched on the ground that the referee who acted was not officially appointed but, strange to say, no intimation of the protest was made to either the referee or the Rovers on the field which , according to Ayrshire Juvenile rules, should have been done. So far as we have been informed, Galston Bluebell agreed to play a cup-tie and while the teams were prepared to toss for a referee, the Galston lads remarked there was an Association representative present who would act as referee. To this the Rovers consented and the game proceeded on the understanding it was a cup-tie, the Galston club at the close receiving their share of the money drawn after meeting ordinary expenses. Moreover, to show that both teams understood that the game was to take the form of a cup-tie, we have only to mention that each captain handed up his paper containing the names and addresses of the respective players and these, we are told, were duly signed by the referee. To put the case in a nutshell, the Galston club were mainly responsible for the game being played as a cup-tie and the Rovers' officials naturally feel indignant at the unsportsmanlike procedure on the part of Galston Bluebell framing a protest on the grounds indicated.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
At a meeting of the North Ayrshire Juvenile League held on Friday evening last (14 February 1902), it was agreed to try and arrange for games between teams selected from the different League bodies in the county, such as the Beith and District Juvenile League, the Kilmarnock and District League and the North Ayrshire League. The object of these games is to try and benefit the funds of the respective League bodies. The cases of Brannan of Ardrossan Celtic and Moore of Irvine Saint Andrews for infringement on the rules of the game were adjourned till the next meeting of the Association which has been fixed for    Friday 28 February. The following are the North Ayrshire League fixtures arranged at the meeting.
   22 February - Irvine Saint Andrews v Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle at Irvine and Bartonholm Britannia v Dalry Athletic at Bartonholm
   1 March - Dalry Athletic v Ardrossan Winton Rovers at Dalry and Ardrossan Celtic v Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle at Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
At the Ayrshire Juvenile Association meeting held on Saturday last (15 February 1902), it was agreed to replay the Trial match at Warner Park, Stevenston on Saturday, 1 March, the recent game at Wandhouse Field, owing to snow, not having given the selectors the highest satisfaction. As McGill of the Winton Rovers failed to take up his position at left half-back in the Blue and White team on the first occasion, this means that McLaughlin of Celtic who filled the vacancy takes up the said position on the date fixed. We give the teams as follows. Red and White: Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Kerr, Kilwinning Rangers; Weir, Bartonholm Britannia; Auld, Ardeer Thistle and Rae, Kilwinning Rangers; forwards - Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Gray, Dalry Athletic; Kilpatrick, Springside; Blair, Largs Neva and Tait, Ardrossan Celtic. Blue and White: goal -Bartonholm Britannia; Carmichael, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrew's; Lusk, Vale of Garnock Strollers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; (James) Hunter, Ardrossan Celtic; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Watt, Kilwinning Rangers.                         Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 2 - VALE OF GARNOCK STROLLERS 0
Bravo, Celtic! It was a glorious win after a hard-fought game and it goes without saying the Vale of Garnock Strollers did not relish the reverse of two goals to love. All the same, the Vale men deserved success and whatever opinion the Celtic members and their admirers may hold to the contrary, we think we do the local lads no injustice when we say that on the day's play a draw would have been a better estimate. We, however, compliment the Celts on their victory for it must not be forgotten they had to play the whole of the second period with only ten men which was a heavy handicap and especially against a team which showed they possessed much physical strength and endurance. The reason why Celtic had to finish short-manned was owing to a nasty kick on the face which Brannan met with after the first minute of the game. He played up till about five minutes from the interval when he stepped outside the arena and subsequently left the field. In the first period of the game, the Vale played with the wind in their favour and during this half, they had if anything the best of matters. Steed in the home goal was frequently put to the test but rose to every occasion in a cool and satisfactory manner. The Celtic, however, had their share of the game and time and again, put the Vale's defence on the qui vive - in fact, play might be said to have been fairly well divided, every inch of ground being keenly contested. Some very narrow escapes were witnessed at each end but nothing eventuated until after twenty minutes elapsed when a breakaway was made by the Celts and coming within shooting distance, (James) Hunter with a fine slanting shot from the right broke the ice and Celtic were one goal up, though in the opinion of many was that offside in a measure contributed to the success. This was all the scoring in the initial period of the game and everyone seemed to be well-pleased with the exposition given. The second half was contested on equally hard and fast lines and the Vale were first in evidence with a good try. It was now felt in evidence with a good try. It was now felt that the Celts would, with the change of ends, show to more advantage this half but so far as play was concerned, the one team was as aggressive as the other, the attacks of the Vale being particularly dangerous but the home custodian was not to be beaten and time and again, the visitors were repulsed empty-handed when they deserved success. With only one back, the Celtic played gamely and in turn attacked only to be forced back pointless. The game, which was good value for a voluntary subscription, proceeded on hard and determined lines, fouls and corner kicks helping to keep up the enthusiasm of the crowd. Fifteen minutes from time, there was no alteration in the scoring and more than once it looked as if the visitors would draw but just at this point, the Celts broke away once more and on Hunter propelling a shot, Taylor converted it into a second goal and victory now seemed assured for the homesters. The stranger plodded on to the finish but all their efforts to find an opening were completely nullified and the Celtic scored a popular victory by two goals to nil.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

LARGS NEVA 1 -ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 1
The Winton Rovers travelled to Largs last Saturday (22 February 1902) and played a friendly game with Largs Neva. There was a fair attendance of onlookers. Several of the Rovers A team donned the blue jerseys for the day in the absence of some of the regular players. The Rovers had the wind in their favour the first half and during this period had, if anything, a monopoly of the play. Many good chances to score, however, were thrown away through weak shooting on the part of the forwards and only once did they succeed in finding the desired spot, the interval being reached with the Rovers leading by one goal to nil. Commencing the second half in brisk fashion, the Neva within five minutes notched the equalising point. The Light Blues had several promising runs which came to naught, however and during the last fifteen minutes of the game, the Rovers' defence had their work cut out in repulsing the vigorous attacks of the Neva forwards who had extremely hard lines in not scoring. The Rovers, however, kept their opponents at bay until the finish of the game which ended in a draw, one goal each.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

WINTON ROVERS A TEAM AND KELBURNE ROVERS TO PLAY TOMORROW
The postponed football match between Winton Rovers A team and Kelburne Rovers of Fairlie will be played to Winton Park, Ardrossan tomorrow (1 March 1902).
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
The result of the Scottish Cup tie at Wandhouse Field, Stevenston where Ardeer Thistle swamped Stewarton Victoria may have been regarded as a foregone conclusion but the victory recorded by Ardrossan Celtic against Vale of Garnock was a bit surprising and perhaps to none more so than the Vale lads. The Vale, though having the best of matters in the early period, found themselves one goal in arrears at the interval and the fact that the Celts had to fight out the second period with but ten players kept the issue in doubt until the last fifteen minutes when the home lads improved their chance of victory by registering a second goal. The visitors, however, played a strong, go-ahead game to the finish and were very unfortunate in not securing a morsel of comfort. Steed, the home custodian, save his charge very coolly and cleverly when there was no other to save and earned the plaudits of the onlookers. Bartonholm Britannia had some consolation afforded them for the heavy defeat they received at Ardrossan the previous week. The Holm lads went two points higher in the North Ayrshire League table by the victory they scored over Dalry Athletic on Saturday last (22 February 1902). It will be noticed that the venue for the Trail Match has been changed from Warner Park to Wandhouse Field. The teams will be the same as played on the last occasion with the exception of Carrick Hamilton of Ardeer Thistle who takes the place of Watt of Kilwinning Rangers at outside right in the Blue and White team, the latter having left the district. The Ayrshire League matches down for settlement on Saturday first (1 March 1902) are Dalry Athletic v Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Ardrossan Celtic v Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle. The Winton Rovers did well in drawing with Largs Neva on Saturday - one goal each - considering that they were minus five of their regular team - Welsh, Bennett, Dow, Reid and Templeton. Perhaps the previous night's 'balling' had something to do with the non-appearance of these players.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS SOCIAL
On Friday last (21 February 1902), over a hundred members and friends met to enjoy the club's first social. The meeting was held in the Town Hall and presided over by Mr George Guthrie. After tea, excellently purveyed by the Co-operative Society, a programme of songs was gone through, contributed to by Mrs Mackay, Messrs James Reid, James Templeton, T Bannatyne, John Scott, John Cameron and D Morris, at the close of which the company enjoyed a dance till the small hours, Master James Barbour acting as master of ceremonies. The music was supplied by Mr A Roy's band.
             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Juvenile matches were few in number last Saturday (28 February 1902) in the northern districts of Ayrshire owing to the Trial match at Stevenston that day. The other Trial match, arranged to take place at Galston, is expected to come off tomorrow (8 March 1902) at Riverside Park. Speaking about Galston reminds us that the protest lodged by Galston Bluebell in connection with their recent Galston and District cup-tie with Ardrossan Winton Rovers was brought up at a meeting of this minor Association held last Saturday and the tie ordered to be replayed. The grounds for Bluebell protesting were that the referee who officiated at the game in question was not officially appointed and the Association therefore considered the game null and void. All the same, the action of the Galston club in deciding to protest was not sportsmanlike especially after both clubs agreed to play a cup-tie, divided the gate money and paid the acting referee - a late Bluebell player - for his services. The fact that Bluebell received a sound beating perhaps prompted them to lodge the protest in order to get another chance to retrieve themselves. The Rovers, to whom no notice of protest was made when the game was played, are however determined to have it out with their Galston rivals when the replay comes off and we fancy there will be 'squalls' on the field.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (1 March 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		12	7	5	0	25	32	14
	Bartonholm Britannia		12	6	5	1	16	29	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN CELTIC
Saltcoats Seaside have Ardrossan Celtic at Brewery tomorrow, Saturday (8 March 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE LEAGUE MEETING
A meeting of the North Ayrshire Juvenile League was held on Friday last (28 February 1902) in Harris's Station Hotel, Saltcoats. Brannan of Celtic and Moore of Saint Andrews were censured for misconduct in the game between these two teams on 1 February at Irvine. A very satisfactory arrangement has been made between the Beith and District League and the North Ayrshire League, namely that of the finances, half-gates are to be the terms. The dates of the matches to come off will be settled at the next meeting. The name betwixt Ardrossan Rovers and Celtic, for the benefit of the League, was arranged. The ground which came out of the hat was Celtic so that the game will take place at North Crescent Park. It was left to the representatives of these teams to settle on a date for the match. The game will be conducted by a neutral referee and linesmen. The North Ayrshire League officials will be in attendance as the match is under their jurisdiction.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

THE TRIAL MATCH
RED AND WHITE TEAM 2 - GREEN AND WHITE TEAM 3
The replayed trial match came off at Wandhouse Field, Stevenston on Saturday (28 February 1902) before a large concourse of onlookers in fine weather. There were changes in each eleven from that originally chosen. In the Red team, Kilpatrick of Springside was an absentee and Dunbar of Ardeer Thistle filled the vacancy. In the Green and White eleven, McLaughlin of Ardrossan Celtic supplanted McGill of Winton Rovers and Hamilton of Ardeer Thistle played outside left instead of Watt of Kilwinning Rangers while Nicol of Ardeer Thistle and Gray of Dalry Athletic exchanged teams as inside right wing forwards. The teams were as follows. Red and White: Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; Aitken, Dalry Athletic; Kerr, Kilwinning Rangers; Weir, Bartonholm Britannia; Auld, Ardeer Thistle; Rae, Kilwinning Rangers; Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Dunbar, Ardeer Thistle; Blair, Largs Neva and Tait, Ardrossan Celtic. Green and White: Rae, Bartonholm Britannia; Carmichael, Ardrossan Winton Rovers; Davidson, Longbar Rangers; Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrew's; Lusk, Vale of Garnock Strollers; McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; (James) Hunter, Ardrossan Celtic; Gray, Dalry Athletic; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Hamilton, Kilwinning Rangers. Mr Aitken of Ardrossan Celtic officiated as referee. In the first period, the Greens played with the wind in their favour and early were their forwards in evidence. Several ineffectual tries were made and an occasional breakaway on the part of the Reds contributed to balance the play. The Greens, however, were the most dangerous lot and Montgomery in goal had to watch the parting efforts of his clubmate, Hamilton. Five minutes after the start, Montgomery and his supports were put to the test and came out of the ordeal with a clean sheet but the Greens were hard to force back and at length another shot from their left caused Montgomery to avert disaster. He did so but the sphere was smartly caught up and with Hamilton, who had a say in the success which followed, on top of Montgomery lying on the ground, the Green forwards clamouring round the goal had no difficulty in scoring the first goal of the match, Hunter on the right giving the ball the finishing touch. The Red shirts soon changed the scene of operations and for the first time, a shot from their left gave Rae a fright, the ball striking the crossbar and rebounding into play. The current continued to run best with the Greens, Duff, Bannerman and Hamilton being specially prominent in the front rank and also McLaughlin in the trio. After Montgomery had made one or two really clever saves, a series of corners fell to the Greens and from the last of these, the sphere found its way to Wilson at half-back who, with a fine effort, notched goal number two for his side. Play opened out occasionally and the Reds, among whom Lynch, Dunbar and Nicol were perhaps the most effective in the quintet, time and again evaded Davidson and Carmichael in the back range causing Rae to look to his colours and once or twice he saved pretty cleverly. About this stage, Duff got nicely away for the Green jerseys but in passing to the left, Weir intercepted and play hovered on the Reds' territory. Play, however, was not of a very brisk order and science was not by any means very conspicuous. Nevertheless, the Greens had the pull and Montgomery was eluded a third time but this point was disallowed for offside. Half-time was signalled with the scores standing at two to nil in favour of the Green shirts. The change of ends now gave the Reds the benefit of a failing breeze and before the game was finished, there was little wind to counteract the efforts of the respective sides. The Reds were the main aggressors in this half and after Rae had accounted for a certainty, he had however to acknowledge himself beaten soon afterwards for the first time in the match which proceeded on very quiet lines. The Greens who had previously made an unsuccessful raid instituted another attack and a slanting shot from their left collided with one of the uprights and passed into the net before Montgomery could save. The Greens were now leading by three to one and in the succeeding play, the Reds strove well to make up the little bit of leeway they had lost. Now and again, Rae got shots to negotiate and he got rid of them with some show of credit, evidently gaining in confidence the more he was asked to perform. The current surged backwards and forwards but then still inclined to run more in favour of the Reds. Davidson and Carmichael had their hands full but despite their efforts, Dunbar with the finest shot of the day, gave Rae no chance to save and only a goal now separated the teams. Towards the finish, the Greens made a gallant attempt to augment their total. Kerr and Aitken at back failed to stop the attack and on three occasions in quick succession, Montgomery had to avert downfall. Time was announced immediately thereafter, leaving the Green and White team winners by three goals to two. That juvenile football is steadily gaining in popularity, there is no reason to doubt and judging from the attendance of spectators at the above Trial match, the impression is being formed that this class of is fast becoming a strong rival to country senior teams. Those who witnessed the twenty-two so-called juveniles chase the bounding ball at Wandhouse must have been agreeably surprised at the fine appearance they presented and also at the tactics they displayed. That several of the players have bright prospects of yet earning distinction in the football world, we have every reason to believe. It is true there were those in each eleven who excelled others in point of play but this, we know, is common in all spheres of labour, as well as in football. The teams pitted against each other on Saturday were very well matched, however, and the opinion is strong that North Ayrshire can produce eleven juvenile players who will take some beating in the forthcoming inter-county struggles. Taking the game throughout, it was an exceptionally quiet affair, lacking the enthusiasm of an ordinary club fixture from beginning to end. Nevertheless, not a few of the onlookers were specially interested in the performances of their own pet club's representatives. Commenting on the individual goalkeepers, each got a fair share of work to perform but of the two, we thought Montgomery of Ardeer had the more difficult shots to negotiate and one of his saves was a clever piece of work. Nevertheless, Rae of Bartonholm evinced good merit between the uprights but, as he seemed a little nervous at times, we would prefer Montgomery for honours. As to the two sets of backs, we have no hesitation in saying that Kerr of Kilwinning Rangers and Davidson of Longbar Rangers were the better men on the day's play and, strange to say, they are both left-backs. Aitken of Dalry Athletic and Carmichael of Winton Rovers were pretty much on a par in point of merit as right-backs but not so pronounced as their mates. The half-backs of both sides contrasted favourably with each other. As regards the left-halves, Rae of Kilwinning Rangers was hardly up to club form but McLaughlin of Ardrossan Celtic was quite himself and should have a chance of honours. As centre-halves, Auld of Ardeer and Lusk of Vale of Garnock acquitted themselves fairly well, the latter perhaps being the better of the two on the day's play. Wilson of Irvine Saint Andrews carried off the palm at right-half but it must not be forgotten that Weir of Bartonholm had the stronger and better wing to oppose. Coming to the forwards, Bannerman of Kilwinning Rangers, Duff of Ardeer and Hamilton of Ardeer were the most prominent on the one side and Dunbar of Ardeer and Lynch of Kilwinning Rangers on the other. Bannerman made a most judicious inside left to Hamilton but with his old clubmate Watt, whose place had to be filled, more would have been seen of the little 'un. The other forwards were less noticeable.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (8 March 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardeer Thistle		9	8	1	0	34	7	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		12	7	5	0	25	32	14
	Bartonholm Britannia		12	6	5	1	16	29	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		9	5	2	2	16	14	12
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902
The table is the same as appeared in the previous week's issue, no games being played on Saturday (1 March 1902).

WINTON ROVERS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN CELTIC
Tomorrow (15 March 1902), we are to have another derby at Ardrossan when the Winton Rovers and Celtic teams will cross swords on the ground of the latter. The occasion is a benefit match for the North Ayrshire League and as the match is under the jurisdiction of that body, the League officials will be in attendance. Apart from the object of the game, the meeting of these teams should be the signal for a big crowd, partisanship being particularly strong. In their League games this season, it will be remembered Celtic won the points easily at Winton Park but the Rovers secured the next two at North Crescent Park. It will thus be seen that the teams excelled each other on their opponents' pitch and if this form of success is to hold good tomorrow, another tough battle is sure to be the outcome as on their last appearance at Crescent Park the Rovers, playing the second half with ten men, only gained the verdict by the odd goal. We express the hope that nothing will occur to mar the pleasure of the game, that the referee will exercise his powers in the way of keeping down rough tactics by ordering the guilty ones off the arena and that the better team may win is, we feel sure, the wish of all true lovers of the winter pastime. The event, it is needless to say, is creating the usual excitement in local juvenile circles.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC TO PLAY KILWINNING RANGERS
The Ardrossan Celtic eleven have once more been favoured with the luck of the ballot in the draw for the third round of the Scottish Juvenile Cup. Their next tie is down for settlement at Crescent Park, Ardrossan and when it is said they have to face Kilwinning Rangers or Hurlford Thistle, one can hardly help from remarking that the Celtic lads are a lucky lot. The Celts, we fancy, have not forgotten the way in which the Buffs rubbed it into them at Kilwinning this season but the Celts, previous to that downfall, have also some recollection of the drawn game which took place at Ardrossan between the teams. It will thus be seen there is some advantage in the choice of ground and if the Celts can only manage to hold their opponents - we presume the Rangers - as well on the forthcoming occasion as they did on their last appearance at Crescent Park, there is no saying how matters might culminate.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

SALTCOATS MERCHANTS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN MERCHANTS
One who signs himself A Baker, send us the following. As the Merchants are to have a holiday on Wednesday, 19 March, I think a football match might be arranged from that date between Saltcoats and Ardrossan merchants. Any of the local clubs would give them the use of their pitch for the day with use of nickers and jerseys and a collection could be taken and handed over to the club. The following team could be got to line up for Saltcoats - 'Joey' Miller; J Jackson and R Aitken; J Andrews, J Leitch and J Craig; Maule, Howie, J Wilson, H Crawford and Chips. Our friend adds The above team is a light one and I am sure they will not disgrace themselves. With such a sprinter as Jim Wilson to lead them on, the forwards should make a good show. I trust this will waken up the merchants in Ardrossan and Saltcoats to provide an afternoon's amusement on the date mentioned above.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE TEAM CHOSEN FOR LANARKSHIRE MATCH
On Tuesday evening last (11 March 1902), the Ayrshire Juvenile Association selected the following team to oppose Lanarkshire on Saturday week (22 March 1902) - Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; Boyd, Hurlford Thistle; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Fisher, Maybole Westend; Gray, Dalry Athletic; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Turnbull, Hurlford Thistle and Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 2 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 2
In spite of the weather, a fairly large crowd of spectators turned out to witness the game between Ardrossan Celtic and Saltcoats Seaside Rangers which was the tit-bit provided for the frequenters of Brewery Park last Saturday (8 March 1902). The following players turned out for their respective teams. Celtic - Steed, McKiernon, Haggerty, Macintyre, Brannan, McLachlan, (James) Hunter, Knox, Norwood, Taylor and Tait. Seaside Rangers - Glen, Bell, Kerr, Tait, Reid, Fleming, Allan, Fraser, Stevenson, Maxwell and C Hamilton. The referee was Mr Alex Anderson. As will be seen, both teams were fully represented, Seaside having the assistance of their old clubmate, C Hamilton. Celtic had the good fortune to win the toss and chose to play with the wind and rain in their favour. Stevenson started operations by kicking off for the Seaside who at once made tracks for the Celtic goal but a pass from Fraser to Allan was intercepted by Haggerty who with a huge drive transferred the play to the other end. The Celts now took a turn at aggressive work and Glen and Company had not altogether a happy time of it. From a goal kick, the Saltcoats lads obtained possession and carried the ball well up the field and Reid sent in a long shot right into the Celtic goal. Steed caught it but returned rather weakly and Stevenson, lying in a good position, ran in and drew first blood for Saltcoats. This was certainly good work against the wind. This reverse did not go down well with the visitors and from the kick-off, they now began to press the homesters but Bell and Kerr, the home backs, were playing a great game and time and time again, sent the attackers back empty-handed. Celtic forwards at this period were losing many chances, owing to their trying too much fancy work - a game which did not pay against such half-backs at the Seaside possess. At last fortune smiled upon the lads in green and white and they obtained a goal from a well-placed kick by McLauchlan which Bell, in attempting to clear, headed through his own goal, allowing Glen very little, if any, chance to save. This placed both teams on a par and immediately after the kick-off from centre, Celtic again returned to the attack. The home lot very seldom got over midfield. Hamilton, with the assistance of Maxwell, occasionally raised a gallop but all their efforts were nullified before they were at all dangerous. About fifteen minutes from the call of half-time, Hunter, with a magnificent long shot which just grazed the underside of the crossbar, scored. Glen, seemingly thinking the ball was going over, made no great effort to save. Celtic, however, on their play, thoroughly deserved the point. The Rangers, owing to the wind and rain against which they were playing, now commenced to act on the defensive and they managed it right well, their backs and half-backs never giving the visitors a chance to settle but kept pegging into them, Fleming in particular completely bottling up Hunter and Knox. The remainder of this half was a series of corner and goal kicks but, strive as they liked, Celtic could not augment their score though they nearly once manage it from a scrimmage, the ball being just touch and go from being through when Glen miraculously cleared his goal with three or four Celts on top of him. It was not to be, however, and on the call of half-time, Celtic had to be content with their one goal lead. Rosy hopes, notwithstanding the rain, which about this time chanced to be very damp, were entertained by the Seaside supporters that their pets would now make up the leeway and something else with the elements to aid them. Without leaving the field, the teams crossed over and resumed and Seaside at once began to force the pace and to test Steed's saving abilities which they found out were quite equal to the occasion. Celtic now started to open out and on Bell, who was well down the field, making a slip which allowed Tait of Celtic to get away on the left, that player, after having carried the sphere well up crossed neatly to Hunter who, with nobody to beat but Glen, sent the ball past the post. From the free kick, Hamilton got away on the left for the Rangers and after a spirited run, he centred. Stevenson accepted the pass but offside was given against him. Seaside monopolised the play and Maxwell, after manoeuvring round three or four Celts, placed to Stevenson who, with a nice drooping shot, completely baffled Steed, placing the teams on level terms. The excitement round the ropes was now intense and opinions were freely expressed that the Saltcoats team would pull off the game. Celtic were not, however, to be so easily disposed of and they, in the most determined manner, forged their way to the Rangers goal where Taylor forced a corner off Kerr. The kick was nicely taken by Hunter but Know headed over. The Seasiders again took matters in hand and began to make things hum for the Celts by swarming round their goal like wasps round a honey jar. Twenty minutes of this half had barely gone when the referee decided to stop the game in consequence of the rain which was coming down in torrents with the score standing at two goals each. Thus ended the great game though we fancy had the remainder of the second half been played, Seaside would have placed a goal or two more to their credit. As it stands, the game has still to be fought and won. Both teams are very well matched and the next meeting between the teams should be a close thing though we are inclined to pin our faith on Seaside being on the right side of the fence at the finish. We cannot close without complimenting Mr Anderson on the able way in which he discharged the duties of referee by keeping both teams well in hand and allowing no unseemly conduct to escape his notice.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902
The phrase 'The excitement round the ropes' implies that the field of play was cordoned off from spectators by ropes.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (15 March 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		12	7	5	0	25	32	14
	Bartonholm Britannia		12	6	5	1	16	29	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		10	5	3	2	18	18	12
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

AYRSHIRE JUVENILE ASSOCIATION TO PLAY LANARKSHIRE JUVENILE ASSOCIATION TOMORROW
We beg to remind our readers of the inter-county match which takes place on Saturday first (22 March 1902) at Warner Park, Stevenston between Ayrshire and Lanarkshire representations. As the game is under the jurisdiction of the Ayrshire Juvenile Association, clubs associated therewith are expected to have an off-day tomorrow. The team selected to represent Ayrshire includes several capable players but nevertheless, we thik it could have been stronger at certain points. The names of the eleven expected to uphold the prestige of Ayrshire in juvenile football are as follows - Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; Boyd, Hurlford Thistle; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Fisher (Maybole Westend); Gray, Dalry Athletic; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Turnbull Hurlford Thistle and Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN PLAYERS BEING POACHED?
A correspondent signing himself Light Blue writes as follows. There is a juvenile club not very far from Ardrossan whose officials do not seem to believe in practising what they preach. Some time ago, it will perhaps be remembered, they set up a plaintive appeal through the medium of this paper against certain clubs in the neighbourhood trying to draw away their players but I am informed that recently they themselves have been endeavouring to entice a certain player in one of the Ardrossan teams - a back - into their ranks. Surely it is a very questionable policy on the part of the club hinted at to blame others for that which they themselves re guilty.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

KILWINNING RANGERS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN CELTIC IN SCOTTISH JUVENILE CUP
Kilwinning Rangers accounted for Hurlford Thistle on Saturday (15 March 1902) and meet Ardrossan Celtic next in the third stage of the Scottish Juvenile Cup competition on 29 March.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 2 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 0
A big crowd turned out last Saturday (15 March 1902) to witness a benefit match between the two local rival clubs - Celtic and Winton Rovers - which took place on the ground of the former club at North Crescent. The proceeds of the match were in behalf of the funds of the North Ayrshire League and, judging from the attendance, it was expected a fairly good sum would be collected. As it invariably the case, rivalry between two local clubs is particularly strong on and off the pitch and on this occasion, no exception was made to the rule. It will perhaps be remembered the last time the Rovers appeared at North Crescent, they scored a meritorious victory against their Celtic brethren and we are perhaps not far wrong when we say that the green and white shirts have ever since been thirsting for revenge. Unfortunately, the Winton Parkers were on this occasion somewhat weakened through the absence of four of their regular players - three forwards and one half-back - and substitutes had to be called in to fill the vacancies. Although thus greatly weakened in attack, many of the Light Blues supporters hoped to see their pets pull through while on the other hand, equally many predicted a win for the Celts who were out at full strength, fully determined to avenge their recent reverse. The ground, considering the weather experienced at the close of the week, was in fairly good condition but a strong wind spoiled what would otherwise have been a better-contested game. The Rovers were a little late in turning up but once they appeared on the area, no time was lost in making a start. This was done by Celtic, the Rovers' captain preferring to play against sun and wind the first half, a decision which seemed passing strange to many of the outside element. The game had a sensational start as in the first minute, Celtic scored the initial goal - the Rovers' custodian, in attempting to clear his charge, fisting the ball in a way through his own goal. It was a good shot but there was a slice of luck connected with such an auspicious opening for the Celtic lads whose hopes were no doubt already swelling with the delightful thought that they would amass a big total ere the half-time signal sounded. This reverse, however, did not seem to alarm the Rovers very much and especially when they reflected on the conditions under which they were contending. The subsequent few passages saw the Rovers quintet encroaching on Celtic territory but it was soon apparent they lacked the necessary dash to carry them on to victory. The Celtic defence proved too many for the occasional breaks made by the Rovers' forwards, several of whom seemed too much afraid of their opponents and as a result, the work of a fairly good half-back line, among whom Findlay was the most effective, went for naught. The Celts were the chief aggressors though much time was lost through the ball being too often in touch. The groundsmen, however, put the visitors' defence frequently to the test and right well did the latter answer the calls made upon them. Time slipped away without any additional success and near the close of this period, a row sprung up among a section of the crowd, causing the game to be stopped for a brief space. It was shortly after this little bit of rowdyism that Taylor, with a slanting shot, scored a second goal for Celtic, the sphere grazing Welsh's fingers as it passed safely through and at half-time, the Rovers were thus two goals in arrears. With the change of ends, it was pretty generally felt that the Rovers would soon make up the leeway they had lost but, as the sequel proves, their supporters were sadly disappointed. The Rovers, however, had a monopoly of the play this half but do as they liked, they could not break through the Celtic defence. At intervals, the green and white shirts transferred the play to the other end and once or twice, they were highly dangerous. While the Light Blues were doing the pressing work at a later stage, the Rovers' outside right got hurt and play was stopped but the injured player afterwards resumed. Near the close, Celtic forged ahead and a parting shot from (James) Hunter struck the foot of one of the uprights and as Welsh came to the rescue, Tait on the left was close at hand when the latter eventually struck the custodian on the face with his open hand and a scene followed which stopped the game. Restarting, the game was now played to a finish, but no scoring resulted in favour of Celtic by the half time score, two to nil. Taking the game all over, it was not a great one, the bulk of the play being carried out at one end of the field and for which the strong wind was largely responsible. The play of both teams, however, was characterised with much earnestness but of the two sets of forwards, the Celts were the more robust lot and this quality has often carried a team on to victory as it did on Saturday. The three subs in the Rovers' quintet were absolutely useless when they reached the crucial point and with their three regular players, it is quite possible we would have had a different tale to tell. The halves of the respective sides contrasted better but of the six, Findlay of the Rovers was perhaps the most effective on the day's play. As to the backs, the Celtic pair contributed greatly to the success of their side and the same remark is applicable to Steed in goal. On the other hand, the Rovers' backs also played a good game and while Welsh cleverly accounted for several shots, still we think he ought to have saved one of the points he post. The play was characterised by a lot of faulty tactics and we express the hope that the guilty ones will mend their ways in that respect and that several of the Celts will also learn to curb their temper in future.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (22 March 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		12	7	5	0	25	32	14
	Bartonholm Britannia		12	6	5	1	16	29	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		10	5	3	2	18	18	12
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		14	5	9	0	16	45	10

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
We have been informed that on 15 March, Irvine Saint Andrew's defeated Dalry Athletic by three goals to two in a North Ayrshire League fixture. That result has been given effect to in the above table this week. Owing to the inter-county match at Stevenston last Saturday, which the Ayrshire lads won handsomely, no League games were played that day.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN TEAMS PLAY CUP TIES TOMORROW
The protested cup-tie between Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Galston Bluebell in the Galston and District competition has, we understand been arranged to be replayed tomorrow, Saturday (29 March 1902) at Winton Park, Ardrossan. On the occasion of their first visit, it will perhaps be remembered the Rovers defeated Bluebell by six to one. The same afternoon, at North Crescent Park, Ardrossan Celtic will find employment in Scottish Cup interests with Kilwinning Rangers. This will be a strong counter attraction to the above match and it goes without saying that the Celts will have a difficult road to travel.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

A CELTIC TRIBUTE
A friend of the Ardrossan Celtic Club, signing himself Emerald, sends us a few verses of poetry, praising the doings of the green and white shirts. As our space is limited, we are only able to give the following verses.
      Ardrossan boasts o' fitba' teams, the Celtic and Rovers twa
      But the Celts can beat their neebors despite the latter's blaw
      In the Ayrshire League at present, oor lads are higher placed
      This shows superior merit and can alone on that be based
            An' noo they only want to bate their freens, the Seaside Rangers
            Although this year they have not been just altogether strangers
            Last year the Saltcoats lads were best, Ardrossan wis clean bate
            This year the Celts will alter this an' wipe them aff the slate
                  An' here in briefly closing allow me just to say
                  That Saturday the lads in green will be a famous day
                  The Buffs are met at Crescent Park in the Scottish Cup third roon
                  Wha's Scottish Cup ambitions will be knocked fair on the croon
                        We'd rather met the Ardeer lot, the boasted Ayrshire cracks
                        This we deny for Celtic lead wi' a' others in their tracks
                        An' wha disputes this fact wi' me all wise discretion lacks
                        But muckle judgement guid has he wha up this statement backs
                              Nae doot, freen Harry Leckie, this tae you will absurd seem
                              But we write it doon here plainly as we do not think your team
                              Worthy to claim that title as long's we're to the fore
                              The Scottish Cup will be the test, we'll see wha'll highest soar
                                    Here's a compliment tae oor worthy and oor only Jamie Aitken
                                    Wha in the Celtic's doings of late much interest has been taken
                                    An enthusiastic worker and a good man for his team
                                    The Celts will show their wisdom if they tae his counsels lean
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

AYRSHIRE JUVENILE ASSOCIATION 3 - LANARKSHIRE JUVENILE ASSOCIATION 1
The first inter-county match between representatives form the Lanarkshire and Ayrshire Juvenile Associations took place at Warner Park, Stevenston on Saturday (22 March 1902) and attracted something approaching 1000 spectators. Heavy showers of rain fell in the course of the afternoon which somewhat marred the pleasure of the crowd, not to speak on the drenching the players received. Arrangements were made to have the teams photographed before starting and on that account, the patrons of the game were a little late in being admitted inside the enclosure. The 'gates', however, were opened before the work of photographing had been completed and the result was that the Ayrshire team had to be re-taken at half-time. The teams lost no time in taking the field and lined up as follows. Lanarkshire - McDonald, Glengowan; Miller, Glenboig Carrick XI and Bissett, Mossend Victoria; Thorburn, Uddingston Victoria; Scougel, Glengowan and Sharp, Uddingston Victoria; Campbell, Glenboig; McLintock, Glengowan; Hamilton, Mossend Victoria; Docherty, Mossend Victoria and Thomson Wellshot Albion. Ayrshire - Montgomery, Ardeer Thistle; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and Davidson, Longbar Rangers; Boyd, Hurlford Thistle; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Fisher (Maybole Westend); Gray, Dalry Athletic; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Turnbull Hurlford Thistle and Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers. Ayrshire, clad in light blue jerseys, won the spin of the coin and Hamilton kicked off for the Lanarkshire lads who appeared in maroon jerseys. The latter started with the breeze favouring them if anything but despite this little handicap which ultimately fell off, the Ayrshire team showed more attack than their opponents at the outset and as time advanced, Lanarkshire had to adopt pretty much a defensive attitude. The play of the latter during this period was disappointing and especially when one looked at the appearance of the respective elevens, the visitors being a tall and hardy-looking lot which lead some to presume that the Ayrshire lads would have a hard run for victory but what the county representatives may have lacked in appearance, was fully compensated in the matter of individual and collective play. Lanarkshire, it is true, made several breakaways but were rather easily held by their opponents and during this period they could hardly be said to have been extremely dangerous except on one or two occasions when Montgomery answered to the few calls made upon him. On the other hand, the Ayrshire forwards, backed by a stubborn trio of halves, fairly outplayed their opponents at times and the Lanarkshire defenders stood the brunt of the battle this half. McDonald in goal and Miller and Bissett got through their work fairly well for the first twenty minutes but at this stage, the pressure told when Bannerman had a well-directed shot which McDonald saved weakly and fell thus allowing Duff to walk practically home with the ball and Ayrshire was one up. McDonald could hardly be blamed for the loss of this point but there is no doubt Ayrshire on play deserved it. The county lads continued to hold the upper hand of the Lanarkshire eleven whose play showed no signs of improvement. Now and again, the latter would break loose but Aitken and Davidson, occasionally at midfield, would give them no rope and Montgomery in goal had a comparatively easy forty-five. At intervals, the Ayrshire forwards combined well and simply out-manoeuvred the visitors. Bannerman and Duff were especially prominent and Fisher, Boyd and Turnbull also played creditably though for the first twenty minutes, the latter was a bit off. Much of their success was due to the energy displayed by the halves, Muirhead, Boyd and McLaughlin, each of whom evinced clever tackling abilities. So far, Ayrshire were decidedly the better lot and after about thirty-five minutes play, preceded by a certainty from Turnbull which McDonald saved, a corner was forced. This was well-placed by Bannerman and as neatly headed between the posts by Turnbull. Ayrshire continued to be masters of the situation and subsequently, another corner came their way. The sphere passed within the post but no point was allowed. Shortly afterwards, half-time was announced with Ayrshire who had three-fourths of the play leading by two goals to nil. Twenty minutes were required for the photographing of the Ayrshire team at the interval and shortly after, hostilities were resumed. The opening phase went in favour of Ayrshire and Bannerman first caused McDonald to save his trust followed with a shot by Turnbull which struck the upright. A foul near midfield let Lanarkshire in through the aid of a big punt and Montgomery had to avert disaster. Keeping up the pressure, the Lanarkshire lads next forced a corner but the home goal was cleared and Fisher broke away to the meridian. The Lanarkshire men were now heating up, better than they had done at any previous stage of the game while Ayrshire seemed to fall off a little. The interest of the crowd was certainly improving due to the form now being exhibited by Lanarkshire. Their forwards had a fine turn of speed and coming once more, Thomson on the left essayed a shot which went just outside the post. Thereafter, a corner was forced by them and on it being taken, close fighting ensued in front of Montgomery's citadel, the outcome of which was another corner for Lanarkshire and hard luck was their lot at this point in not securing an opening. During the first quarter of an hour, the play was of a brisk and well-balanced nature and each goal underwent narrow shaves. Ayrshire, however, were hardly up to the form they exhibited in the early period but were still holding their own with the visitors whose half-backs, Thorburn, Scougel and Sharp, were evincing better work. Hamilton started another invasion for Lanarkshire and passing away to Thornton on the left, matters looked promising for a moment but not yet were the efforts of the visitors rewarded. The home defenders cleared their lines and Ayrshire were at the other end in a twinkling. A corner was forced but it passed away fruitless. After twenty-five minutes stiff play, Lanarkshire again attacked and Montgomery saved but the ball was smartly returned safely into the net, much to the chagrin of the home custodian who evidently thought the ball would go clear as he made no effort to save. This made the score two to one and in the succeeding play, under a heavy downpour of rain, Ayrshire showed to better advantage. The pressure on the visitors' goal was severe and after several failures, a shot from the home right wing was seized by Bannerman who cleverly beat McDonald, a point which was well wrought for. Defeat of the Lanarkshire men was now assured who broke away in the closing minutes but only to be forced back again. The game ultimately finished in a well-earned victory for the Ayrshire lads by three goals to one. The Ayrshire players are to be congratulated on scoring their first inter-county victory against Lanarkshire and those who witnessed the game will, we feel sure, agree with us when we say that on the day's play, they were the better combination. The Lanarkshire team included several promising players but, as a whole, they did not rise to the standard of their opponents, each of whom justified their selection which is more than can be said regarding the visitors. The game was pleasantly contested throughout.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (28 March 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Dalry Athletic		13	7	6	0	29	35	14
	Bartonholm Britannia		12	6	5	1	16	29	13
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		10	5	3	2	18	18	12
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

TWO ROWDY CUP-TIES IN ARDROSSAN
The two cup-ties played at Ardrossan on Saturday (29 March 1902) were, we regret to say, characterised by rowdyism. Two players were ordered off the field at Winton Park and one at the North Crescent pitch. In each case, the home club came out on top and, strange to say, the visiting teams have, we are told, both protested. The appearance of the Buffs at Celtic Park drew forth the larger crowd of spectators and the victory they achieved, narrow though it was, was generally unexpected. All the same, the Buffs on play were the better lot. The Celts, however, must not feel to 'cocky' over their Scottish win for in the event of the tie being replayed, the chances are that the Buffs will redeem themselves in the eyes of their supporters. As to the protest hatched by Galston Bluebell at Winton Park, it is to be regretted that a spectator gave cause for same through interfering with one or other of the players. When will spectators learn to mind their own business? During the rowdyism at Celtic Park too, we noticed a spectator rush into the thick of the crowd as if he meant to go for some one in particular but he was quickly run over the touch-line by two or three spectators. The decision on the respective protests and the penalties imposed on the players who had lost their temper, will, we need hardly say, be awaited with some interest in Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1 - KILWINNING RANGERS 0
Ardrossan Celtic's poet predicted truly the fate of the Kilwinning Rangers last week when he wrote 'Wha's Scottish Cup ambitions will be knocked fair on the croon'. The Celtic lads naturally feel proud over their narrow victory of one goal to love. The game, however, was simply spoiled owing to the strong wind and, under more favourable conditions, we would in all probability have had a different tale to tell. All the same, the solitary goal with which the Celts won the tie was cleverly executed and for this success Tait and Taylor were responsible. The former broke away on the left about a couple of minutes from half-time wand when well in the corner, he shot the ball across. The Rangers' custodian ran out to save but, failing in his duty, Taylor and (James) Hunter in close attendance, got command of the sphere and the former literally walked home triumphantly. The Celts were well cheered for this piece of play and the Rangers' defenders were to blame for their own downfall. The Buffs were the main aggressors during the early period but this need not be wondered at when it is said they had a strong wind behind them. Repeatedly, were they dangerous and repeatedly did Steed, the Celtic custodian, rise to each occasion. But for him, the Buffs would certainly have scored several times and the Celts have Steed to thank in keeping their goal intact. Once the Buffs had the sphere between the posts but it was allowed to get there and the point did not count. The ball was in touch far too frequently and much valuable time was thus wasted but the referee could not see the force of Taylor of the Celts deliberately kicking the ball away a respectable distance from the pitch and for this uncalled-for act, the referee ordered the offending player to go and bring the ball which he reluctantly did. The second part of the game was the best and most exciting but after about twenty-five minutes, in the course of which Celtic made several close attacks, a row broke out while the Rangers were in home territory, Brannan of the Celts attacking Lynch of the Rangers. The crowd rushed on to the field and the game was abruptly stopped. The referee ordered Brannan to leave the field but before he left he had another blow at the Ranger. The Celts had now to fight out the remainder of the game with ten players. Peace being restored, the closing twenty minutes saw the Rangers do most of the pressing work and time after time they got in dangerous proximity to the Celtic goal but Steed and his supports would not allow a loophole and the Rangers sustained their first defeat at the hand of the Celtic lads by one goal to nil. In the course of the game, it leaked out that the Rangers had lodged a protestation on the ground that the circle was not in accordance with the laws of the game and on the strength of this protest the Rangers, no doubt, hope to have the tie replayed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 3 - GALSTON BLUEBELL 1
Galston Bluebell visited Winton Park on Saturday last (29 March 1902) and played their protested Galston and District Cup tie with the Winton Rovers. The weather was good except for a strong breeze and there was a fair attendance of spectators. The teams were: Bluebell - Ireland, G Anderson, J Anderson, W Steel, Nisbet, D Steel, McHallam, Williamson, Duncan, King and Howie. Rovers -Welsh, Carmichael, McMurray, Bennett, Findlay, McGill, Dow, McCulloch, Wilkie, Templeton and Simpson. The referee was Mr McBlane of Springside. The visitors, having won the toss, elected to play with the wind and sun at their backs in the first half and Wilkie commenced operations for the Light Blues. McCulloch caught up his pass and put the sphere to Dow but the latter did not proceed far and play was soon transferred into Winton territory. Bluebell kept up the pressure and Welsh's charge underwent some narrow shaves. The wind kept the play confined to the one end of the field for the most part of the first half and the home defence was at times taxed to the uttermost to keep the Galston lads out. Corner kicks were pretty frequent for the visitors but from none of these did they succeed in finding an opening. As the game went on, the Rovers continued to keep their opponents at bay and it looked as if the teams would cross over on level terms when a foul was given against Templeton within the twelve yards line. From the penalty kick, the Bluebell scored the initial goal of the match. This seemed to infuse a little more vim into the play and the homesters had one or two promising breakaways. Shortly before half-time, they made strenuous efforts to get the equaliser, a good shot of Dow's striking the crossbar with terrific force. Play again drifted towards the Rovers' end and the interval was reached with Bluebell leading by one goal to nil. With the breeze in their favour, the Wintonians commenced the second half in brisk fashion and the visitors' defence now received their share of attention. The Light Blues continued to make the pace but the play of the forwards lacked finish and several good openings were lost in consequence. However, a penalty kick was granted them and McCulloch scored the equalising goal. Restarting from the meridian, the Rovers again took up the running. With visions of a draw and a replay at Galston in their minds, the Bluebell were rather unscrupulous in the tactics they adopted to prevent the homesters getting the lead and hard knocks were pretty frequent, the referee being kept busy chastening the offenders. Naturally, the visitors desired to waste as much time as they possibly could and when King of the Galston team kicked the ball away after it had been placed, he was promptly ordered to fetch it back. This he very reluctantly did, assisted by the linesman. Another little scene occurred which did not tend to lessen the feeling of ill-will which had predominated from the commencement of the game. Dow of the Rovers and Duncan of the Bluebell came to loggerheads about something and in a twinkling, the pair were locked in a loving? embrace. Of course, there was the usual rush to separate the combatants, both of whom were sent to the pavilion to cool their tempers. The game was proceeded with - ten men a side - and play once more drifted into the visitors' lines. A long drive from Findlay was neatly caught up by McCulloch who finished by beating the Bluebell custodian close in and thus placed the Rovers one goal in the lead. No sooner was the sphere kicked off than the Light Blues again invaded their opponents' territory and Simpson had a long shot for goal. Ireland gripped the ball all right but his return was caught by Wilkie and the score stood three to one in favour of the home team. This was quick scoring, indeed and then the Bluebell seemed to realise that they were a beaten team as they very seldom got over midfield. The wind also helped to keep the play at their end and had the Rovers shown a little more tact in front of goal, they would probably have increased their score. Simpson occasionally allowed his trickiness to go a little too far and the right back of the Bluebell, become nettled at the liberties taken by the 'little 'un', ultimately struck him on the face. The game had to be again stopped until order was restored. The play continued to be of a one-sided nature until the finish but no further scoring was effected and the Rovers returned winners of a disappointing exhibition by three goals to one. The backs of both teams were reliable while McGill for the Rovers was the most judicious of the half-backs. We trust that the ungentlemanly display given by the Bluebell is not a foretaste of what is to come and that the game with Galston Vale of Irvine in the second round of this competition will be contested in a more friendly spirit. The Bluebell, we understand, have lodged another protest, this time against the interference of a spectator. Such conduct on their part is unworthy of further comment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS A TEAM 4 - KELBURNE ROVERS 1
The Rovers A team journeyed to Fairlie on Saturday (29 March 1902) and defeated Kelburne Rovers by four goals to one. When these teams met at Winton Park a few weeks ago, the Ardrossan youths won by the substantial score of seven goals to two.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (5 April 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		14	6	6	2	19	35	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		11	5	3	3	20	20	13
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
It was arranged that Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Eglinton Thistle play a League game at Kilwinning tomorrow, Saturday (12 April 1902) but this fixture will have to be postponed owing to the former having a cup-tie on hand. The League fixture between Ardrossan Celtic and Bartonholm which was down for settlement tomorrow (12 April 1902) will also have to be postponed, the latter having an off-day, we presume, on account of the Bogside races. Ardrossan Winton Rovers play Vale of Irvine on Saturday first (12 April 1902) at Winton Park in the second round of the Galston and District Cup competition. The winner of this ties meets Darvel in the semi-final which will be played at Galston. Galston Bluebell's protest against the interference of spectators at Winton Park on 29 March was thrown out by the Galston Association and the players reported for fighting got off unpunished. The Saltcoats Seaside Rangers had on off-day last Saturday (4 April 1902) owing to the International. The Ardrossan Celtic lads will engage the Rangers at Brewery Field tomorrow (12 April 1902) which will be their second visit to Saltcoats this season. It will be remembered the last occasion the teams met a draw was the result of an unfinished game so that Saturday's meeting should be interesting to the partisans of the respective combinations. At the Scottish Juvenile Association meeting held on Saturday evening last (5 April 1902), the protest submitted by Kilwinning Rangers against Ardrossan Celtic for the centre ring being only seven yards radius and encroachment of spectators was dismissed and money forfeited. At the game in question, it will be remembered, Brannan of the Celtic eleven struck an opponent and for doing so, he has been suspended for one month to date from 29 March. J Campbell, who acted as linesman for Kilwinning Rangers, was censured for his conduct towards the referee at the said game. The exit of the Buffs from the Scottish Cup competition at the hands of Ardrossan Celtic is a sore pill to swallow and especially when one recollects that the Buffs played last season's final for the Scottish trophy. The fifth round of the Scottish ties fall to be played on the 19 April and in the event of Ardeer Thistle surviving the fourth round, Celtic will be their next opponents. We fancy the Celts would have preferred to stay at home but the luck of the ballot has gone against them this time.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

A POETIC REPLY FROM A WINTON ROVERS SUPPORTER
We herewith publish the lines forwarded by Light Blue which were held over from last week in reply to Emerald.
      Ho, boaster from the Celtic camp, come list awhile to me
      Ye've said ye are the better team, with you I don't agree
            'Tis true that in the Ayrshire League we're four points down or so
            But wait till the table's finished before your horn you blow
                  As far as merit 'tween us lies in that same Ayrshire League
                  On Winton Park, we lost two points but did our name retrieve
                        By thrashing ye on Crescent Park in the return game
                        So thus the honour's even, in the League we've held oor ain
                              In the third match played between us two, 'twas played on your own ground
                              The Greens were at their strongest, we were not strong or sound
                                    So this we fear you not nor will allow o'er us to craw
                                    For yet ye've us to reckon with in the game that's called fitba'
                                          What say ye to a neutral ground, say Seaside Rangers' field
                                          And the team which loses fairly to the other honours yield
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 5 - BARRHEAD FERENEZE 3
Celtic had Barrhead Fereneze, the Renfrewshire Juvenile Cup finalists, as their guests at North Crescent on Saturday. There was a fair attendance of spectators. Neither team was at full strength and just as the game started, rain began to fall heavily and continued for the greater part of the first half. Most of the spectators sought shelter until the rain ceased but the teams did not leave the field. The visitors played with the wind and rain at their back the first half and were the first to score and shortly afterwards, Celtic equalised matters very cleverly. Success again attended the efforts of the Fereneze players and half-time found then leading by two to one. The second period was conducted under fine weather auspices and in a few minutes, Celtic equalised, a long kick by one of the home backs dropping beautifully in front of the visitors' custodian who struck the ball with his fist only to see it slip past him between the uprights. The Celts were the main aggressors in the play which followed and a third goal was registered which was soon followed by a fourth. The Barrhead players occasionally broke away but their efforts were always foiled when near goal. There were one or two fair players among them but as a whole, they could not cope with the Celts. The issue of the game was already looked upon as a certainty for the homesters and as if to make it doubly sure, they bracketed a fifth point, the result of a corner. Barrhead, however, continued to fight gamely and, getting in on the home lines, they cleverly notched what proved to be their third and last goal. The remainder of the game passed off without further scoring and victory rested in favour of Celtic by five goals to three. Being a friendly, the game lacked interest while the play shown was mainly of the kick and rush order. On the day's play, the Celts were the better lot, however, and deserved to win. As Renfrewshire finalists, the play of the visitors did not come up to the standard expected. On Monday evening
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 6 - SAINT MARY'S SELECT, SALTCOATS 2
On Monday evening last (7 April 1902), the Celts engaged Saint Mary's Select, Saltcoats at North Crescent in a benefit match which the former won by six to two.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

IBROX DISASTER SHILLING FUNDS
We shall be pleased to receive, acknowledge and forward to the Funds instituted by our Glasgow contemporaries, The Evening News and The Evening Times, any donations our readers may desire to give towards the relief of the sufferers through the disaster of Saturday last (5 April 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902
The Ibrox Disaster happened on 5 April 1902 at Ibrox Park, now Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Following the collapse of a stand, twenty-five supporters at a Scotland v England match died and 517 were injured.

THIRTY DAYS OVER FOOTBALL ARGUMENT
Princes Street presented an animated appearance on Wednesday evening (16 April 1902). Crowds from all quarters flocked thither to witness a display of fisticuffs by two young men who had quarrelled over the respective merits of their favourite footballers. The struggle was fast and furious but happily, the ubiquitous policeman appeared on the scene with the result that both combatants ere somewhat ceremoniously march off to 'durance vile'. Both were sentenced to thirty days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

'WEE MON' WAS ALL THERE
The 'wee mon' that sometimes does duty with an Ardrossan eleven was all there - only more so. He who runs may Reid - tuts, I mean read - who I mean.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902
The player called Reid 'that sometimes does duty with an Ardrossan eleven' was Winton Rovers' centre-forward.

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (5 April 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		13	9	3	1	35	22	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		10	8	1	1	26	7	17
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		14	6	6	2	19	35	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		11	5	3	3	20	20	13
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
There were no Juvenile League games played on Saturday last (12 April 1902) and the above table is the same as appeared in our last issue.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
A meeting of the North Ayrshire League was held on Tuesday 8 March but no business of any importance was done. The League fixtures for Saturday first (19 April 1902) are Bartonholm v Ardrossan Celtic and Eglinton Thistle v Kilwinning Rangers. Ardrossan Celtic will be Ardeer's next Scottish Cup opponents and the chance of success is again in favour of the Jags from the fact that the tie falls to be played at Wandhouse Field. The Celts, flushed with their victory over the Kilwinning Rangers, last season's cup finalists, will have to be in their best playing vein when they turn up at Stevenston. The friendly game at Brewery Park where the Seaside Rangers and Ardrossan Celtic met was, we regret to say, characterised by rowdyism and several players had also to leave the field injured. It is a pity when players resort to fighting and the sooner it is given up, the better will it be for juvenile football in Saltcoats and Ardrossan. We hope the guilty ones will take the hint. We hear that Reid of Winton Rovers who has been an absentee for the past few weeks will don the light blue jersey tomorrow against the smart combination known as Glasgow Camphill. By their substantial win over Vale of Irvine last Saturday, the Winton Rovers had graduated into the semi-final stage of the Galston and District Cup competition. Keep it up, Rovers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 2 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1
Saltcoats Seaside Rangers met Ardrossan Celtic on Saturday last (12 April 1902) at Brewery Field in a great 'slate-cleaning' competition before a large gathering of spectators. The following were the teams: Celtic - Steed, McKiernon, Haggerty, McIntyre, Norwood, McLaughlin, (James) Hunter, W Knox, Taylor, R Knox and Tait. Seaside Rangers - McMurtrie, Bell, Kerr, Tait, Reid, Fleming, Glen, Goldie, Stevenson, Allan and Duguid. The referee was Mr Murchie, Troon. As will be noticed from the above, Brannan was absent from the Celtic ranks and Maxwell from the Seaside. The last game between these two combinations was, owing to the weather conditions, left unfinished, the cores being equal. Since that match, the Celtic, through their bard yclept Emerald, have been issuing a threat to 'wipe Seaside aff the slate'. Seaside, like Brer Rabbit, lay low and said nuffin but were determined that no such thing would happen if they could help it. Such being so, Saturday's game had every prospect of being a rouser and it quite came up to expectations. Seaside won the toss and Celtic started operations with a slight breeze in their favour. The ball hovered about midfield for a short time and after a few passages, Celtic obtained possession and W Know had a try at McMurtrie who cleared brilliantly. The Rangers were awarded a free-kick for one of the Celts jumping at McMurtrie. From the kick, Glen got away and after a short run, centred the ball. Stevenson caught the pass and shot for goal but his efforts just missed by inches. Both teams were straining every nerve to get the opening goal and somewhat forcible play was the order of the day. Hunter for Celtic next had a run and passed to R Knox who had a wild drive at the Saltcoats goal from about twenty yards out but his shot went high over the bar. The visitors were now having, if anything, the best of the exchanges. The green and white again returned to the attack and Tait of Seaside, in endeavouring to block a pass from a Celt, allowed the ball to skid off his foot and Bell, to save a corner, headed the ball over the touch. The referee, however, awarded a corner kick and although the decision was not very palatable to the homesters, a corner is had to be. This was nicely placed by Tait and Hunter cleverly headed the sphere into the net. This reverse put the Seasiders on their mettle and Steed and Company had their work cut out for them in stemming the Rangers' rushes. The Seaside forwards were proving a bit too speedy for the Celtic defence, Duguid and Allan at times simply walking away from McIntyre and McKiernon. When the Celts saw this, they were not the least chary of adopting very questionable tactics in order to stop the man. The home lot now did some pressing and experienced hard luck in not being able to find an opening, the ball striking the crossbar and uprights. Steed also contributed largely to their non-success. A goal was not to be their portion and half-time arrived with the Celts leading by one to nil. On resuming, Celtic had an early visit to McMurtrie but the ball was sent past. Once on the Rangers' territory, they were not so easily got rid of and affairs were looking anything but nice for Seaside until Kerr, with a huge punt, let Goldie away on the right and that player transferred the scene of operations. He carried the ball well up the field and then crossed to Stevenson who shot true and hard for goal but Steed managed to fist out. Celtic again returned and some give-and-take play took place on Seaside's half of the field. At this period, one of the Celtic players lost his temper and struck a Seasider and on one the home players going to act the part of peacemaker, he struck him also. This seemed to be the signal for a general uprising and the teams began to have a small Donnybrook with each other. The spectators now broke in and after some time had elapsed, the field was cleared and the game restarted. Hostilities proceeded on quiet lines and Seaside began to work their passage to their opponents' goal. Almost simultaneously, Tait of Celtic and Fleming of the Rangers got injured. The game was again stopped and both players were assisted off the field. Allan dropped back into Fleming's place but Celtic adopted the one-back game which, if football, was certainly not sportsmanlike considering that both teams were equally handicapped. This game time and again threw the Rangers offside, sometimes when they were only about the centre of the field. Bell now had occasion to leave the field and Tait took up his place at back, Glen falling into the half-back line. This left the homesters with only three forwards - Duguid, Stevenson and Goldie - but these three proved quite equal to the Celtic defence and had a good few tries at Steed who was saving well. After about ten minutes, Bell returned and took up the position of outside right. Glen now went back and Tait resumed his old place. Goldie got possession of the ball and passed to Bell who, after a severe tussle with McLaughlin got away and sent in a stinger to the Celtic custodian who cleared rather weakly. A scrimmage ensued in front of the Celtic goal and the ball came out to Duguid on the left who planted it at Reid's foot and that player with one of his own patent low shots equalised amid great cheering. Celtic were now desperate and at once instituted a raid on the Seaside goal. The ball came into McMurtrie who made a slight miskick and the ball landed at Taylor's foot. This player should have scored but he sent the sphere past the upright. Seaside again returned to interview Steed but the offside game, as played by the Celtic, wrought havoc with their intentions. They, however, through time managed to reach their opponents' goal and Goldie sent in a beauty to Steed who allowed the ball to slip through his hands. The Rangers' forwards bore down on him like an avalanche and carried the ball through. The excitement was now something intense and the Seaside supporters let their angelic voices rang out to some purpose. From this to the finish, there was only one team in and that was certainly not the Celts. Trainer Montgomerie seemed to have his men in perfect fettle as they were now all over the Celts and it was only the one-back game and the goalkeeper that kept the Seasiders from running up a record score and the game ended in a win for the Rangers by two goals to one. The Seaside Rangers are, therefore, still on the slate and the Celtic seem as far off as ever from being able to do that little piece of work of wiping them off.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 4 - VALE OF GARNOCK 1
The Winton Rovers found employment in Galston and District Cup interests last Saturday (12 April 1902) and a goodly number of spectators assembled at Winton Park to witness the contest. As our readers are aware, the Rovers accounted for Galston Bluebell in the first stage of the competition and no doubt they hoped to serve the Vale lads in a similar way. The Vale, we believe, lacked the services of two of their regular players and in that the respect, the Rovers also suffered. Carmichael and McCulloch failed to come to the scratch and at the last moment, Fullarton and Barclay of the A team filled respective vacancies. Otherwise, the teams were at their strongest. In giving a few notes on the game, we may first of all say that the ground and weather favoured the occasion. Shortly after the start, Forsyth of the Vale injured his leg with his first kick and had to retire. He returned to the field but had again to give up play and the Vale may be said to have played the initial period with ten men. The opening phases of the game went in favour of the Rovers and after some close passages and dangerous shooting in front of the visitors' goal whose custodian displayed good merit, Barclay in centre notched the first point for the homesters with a really fine effort. Ten minutes had passed away and so far the visitors could not be said to have been extremely dangerous. They made headway several times and in this respect, no one was more prominent than Oliver on the left but on reaching the home defence, the attack was always frustrated though one of the ground backs once looked as if he would bring disaster to his own side. There was no denying the facet that the Rovers were having the best of the game and at a subsequent stage they experienced very hard lines indeed. Crowding in on the visitors' stronghold, they gave it piping hot to the opposing defences but Alcorn in goal baffled the homesters splendidly though the play of the latter at this stage certainly merited success. Relief at length came to the Vale and having reached home territory, a shot from the left caused Welsh to save close on the post. Quickly was the sphere caught up by one of the Vale lads and he made no mistake, Welsh being at the wrong side of his charge when the sphere was shot safely home without opposition. This success placed the teams on level terms with one point each. To make the story as brief as possible, were may here state the Rovers continued to be the more aggressive party and some hard work was entailed before Barclay again placed his side in the lead, a success which was the outcome of a scrimmage but which point the visitors disputed though the referee granted it. The first period was brought to a climax with the Rovers leading by two goals to one but on play, they deserved better. The second period was conducted on somewhat similar lines as the first. Forsyth, who injured himself at the start of the game, took Alcorn's place in goal and the Vale, now at full strength, hoped of course to do better things. Play, which at times was dull as ditch water, surged backward and forward with the current running best with the homesters. The Vale made one or two breaks but these, as at the other end, lacked decision. At length, a free kick fell to the Rovers and on Findlay tipping it gently in front, McMurray, with an unerring shot, scored number three for the Rovers. The Vale afterwards put in some pressing work and the ground lads had to look to their colours. A series of corners were well-placed by them and on each occasion the Rover's citadel underwent narrow shaves. Still the Vale could not find an opening and it was evident that defeat was to be their portion. The Rovers held the upper hand to the finish and on the call of time. Barclay, close on the post, registered a fourth point, the Vale being thus beaten by four to one. The game was pleasantly contested and the Vale lads took their defeat like true sportsmen. The forward play of the respective teams was not very noteworthy and as a whole the Rovers' quintet have hitherto been seen in better form. Had the visitors' halves played as well as McGill, Findlay and Bennett on the other side, there is no saying how matters might have ended and we only do the home trio justice when we say they had a good share in Saturday's victory. The two sets of backs contrasted favourable with each other while the Vale's custodian had more to do than Welsh and Alcorn in the first half saved his side well. The attraction at Winton Park tomorrow (19 April 1902) will be Glasgow Camphill, a team that is expected to make the Rovers run hard for honours.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

THE CLEANING OF THE SLATE
The following lines have been received this week from one signing himself Sportsman.
      Behold, much vaunted Celtic now - vanquished and forced the knee to bow
      Before the lads in black and gold, the Saltcoats Rangers brave and bold
            Emerald, thou unit of a much-conceited lot, the Seaside surely you forgot
            Or them entirely set at naught when Ayrshire's pride to be you sought.
                  But now you've got a demonstration, much better far than ostentation
                  Or prating, boasting, vile oration - fine words, no deeds
                        Which shows that in the two towns still the Seaside leads
                        Cooled down must be your high elation, lowered quick from state of elation
                              And selfish pride and jubilation to humble place
                              Now 'neath the Rangers is your station in honours race
                                    Advance ye victors who o'ercame, pursue right earnestly the game
                                    Turn out and diligently train, your future's bright
                                          Send forth a challenge to Ardeer and Buffs et cetera, have no fear
                                          Ye'll beat them if same form display as seen 'gainst Celts last Saturday
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - THE GAME AT BREWERY PARK
Sir
Allow me space to say a few words with reference to juvenile football. I had the pleasure to see the match played between Ardrossan Celtic and Saltcoats Seaside Rangers last Saturday (12 April 1902) at Brewery Park and I must say the ill-feeling evinced by several of the Celtic players was the worst I have seen on a football field - and I have been on most of the popular fields in Scotland. Why cannot the Celtic team take defeat without resorting to their fists as was the case on Saturday? And why does the Celtic player who created the disturbance not hire a boxing booth for Saturday afternoons instead of playing football and allow the Celts to play peacefully? As regards the Rangers, they are, as a playing team, to be feared by most Ayrshire juvenile clubs and their victory on Saturday was merited by superior play. I wish the young Breweryites every success and express the hope that greater victories are in store for them that the one they last achieved.
I am et cetera
Fairplay
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (19 April 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		14	10	3	1	41	25	21
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Kilwinning Rangers		11	9	1	1	28	7	19
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		13	7	5	1	26	26	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		15	6	7	2	22	41	14
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		12	5	4	3	20	22	13
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
The two North Ayrshire League matches down for decision last Saturday (19 April 1902) were duly fought and won and Ardrossan Celtic and Kilwinning Rangers added two points to their respective records. The losing teams were Bartonholm Britannia and Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle, both of which it may be remarked, fell on their own ground. The Celts scored a meritorious victory of six goals to three against Bartonholm and the Buffs topped their near and dear neighbours by two to nil. Ardrossan Winton Rovers found employment in friendly interests with Glasgow Camphill. The game, which took place at Winton Park, was pleasantly contested and ended in favour of the Rovers by four to three. Last season, it will perhaps be remembered, Camphill defeated the Rovers by exactly the same score. Both teams played a fine game and the visitors expressed the opinion that the Rovers are a much-improved lot since last season. Tomorrow (26 April 1902), the Rovers will be in the hunt for North Ayrshire League points when they oppose Eglinton Thistle at Kilwinning. Form similar to that shown last Saturday will make the Jags run hard for honours. Conveyances will leave the Templars' Hall (shown below as the Gospel Hall in 2002) for Kilwinning at 2.30 pm. As regards Ardrossan Celtic, they travel to Wandhouse Field, Stevenston on Saturday first in order to decide their Scottish Juvenile Cup tie with Ardeer Thistle. This tie is expected to draw out the supports of both clubs in strong force. We are also informed that the Buffs would like to engage Ardrossan Celtic in another trial of strength on neutral ground. The Buffs still feel confident they can stop the Celtic trumpets from blowing and will be quite willing to play the green and while jerseys either at Stevenston or Saltcoats, the proceeds of said match to go to the Ibrox Disaster Fund. From the foregoing, we presume the Buffs have not forgotten the recent Scottish Cup exit they made at the hands of Celtic and would like to get an opportunity to avenge that defeat. Be that as it may, however, we commend the Buffs' willingness to devote the proceeds of such a match to the Ibrox Disaster Fund and it is to be seen how the Celtic officials will act in this matter. The Buffs hope Celtic will agree to play such a match on a week-night.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902
The Ibrox disaster happened on 5 April 1902 at Ibrox Park, now Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Following the collapse of a stand, twenty-five supporters at a Scotland v England match died and 517 were injured.

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 3 - STEVENSTON THISTLE STROLLERS 3
The Ardrossan Celtic and Stevenston Thistle Strollers played a match on the ground of the former on Wednesday evening (23 April 1902). The game was evenly contested throughout and ended in a draw, three goals each, one of which Celtic scored from a penalty.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 1 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 0
On Wednesday evening last (23 April 1902), Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Saltcoats Seaside Rangers played a friendly at Brewery Park. The game was an interesting one to the habitués of the respective local clubs and especially with the defeat of Celtic on the same pitch fresh in memory. The teams were well matched and it was not until the closing stages of the game were reached that the Seasiders were awarded the only goal of the match, a point which should not have been allowed by the referee owing to one of the Rovers' backs being held. The game was characterised by rowdyism and the treatment received by the Rovers was anything but sportsmanlike on the part of the so-called 'gilded youths' and their supporters.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 4 - GLASGOW CAMPHILL 3
The attraction of the season was provided at Winton Park on Saturday last (19 April 1902) when Glasgow Camphill were the guests and opponents of the Winton Rovers in a friendly. It will probably be remembered that when Camphill visited Ardrossan last season, a well-contested game resulted in the Rovers being defeated by the narrow margin of four to three after pleasing game and this fact was, no doubt, mainly responsible for the large crowd who assembled to witness the second tussle between the representatives of city and coast. Both teams, we understand, were fully represented. Camphill were fortunate in the spin of the coin but decided to face the breeze the first half and Reid set the sphere in motion for the Rovers. The homesters started promisingly and in the opening passages the 'Hill defence as subjected to a pretty severe baptism. On the pressure being relieved, the visiting forwards had a breakaway but they did to make much progress against the breeze and the home backs cleared their lines without much difficulty. Good work by the Rovers' halves brought play in front of the strangers' citadel where Reid had an opportunity of testing his shooting powers and one or two good tries from his foot served to impress the man between the sticks the necessity of keeping his wits about him. Indeed, Reid succeeded in finding the desired spot but as he handled the ball just before shooting, the point was nullified. Following this, Camphill's left got away nicely but on McMurray coming to the assistance of his partner, they were sent back empty-handed. With a nicely combined run the homesters again invaded and on Reid getting possession of the leather near the touch-line, he opened the scoring with a swift, slanting shot which completely baffled the Camphill custodian. It was a well-taken goal and was worthy by the cheer it raised. The Rovers kept us the attack and as the outcome of several corner kicks, the visitors' stronghold was at times on the verge of being taken. Welsh received an occasional visit but the Campbell forwards were never really dangerous and the home custodian had a somewhat easy times of it. The Light Blues again invaded and from a well-placed corner, Hattie headed the ball safely between the uprights and the Rovers were two goals up. On resuming, Camphill pressed for a short time forcing a corner which proved fruitless, notwithstanding the encouraging shouts of a strong-lunged supporter of the Saint Mungo team. The centre of operations was again transferred and McGill endangered the 'Hill citadel with three well-placed shots in quick succession but he misjudged his fourth attempt by shooting just over the bar. After some give-and-take play, a brief scrimmage took place in front of the strangers' goal, the outcome of which was that, though the instrumentality of Simpson, the Rovers scored a third goal. The Winton forwards were showing to advantage though Dow allowed several chances to slip through dallying. Reid's nimbleness, combined with his shooting, was a continual source of annoyance to the strangers' defence and ere long, he was the means of scoring a fourth goal, the sphere slipping out of the keeper's hands after he had saved. Towards the close of the first half, Camphill wakened up a bit and a brace of corners at Welsh's end gave promise of an opening but on the second kick being taken, the whistle sounded for the interval with the scores standing four to nil in favour of the Winton Parkers. After a short breather, the teams lined up and, with the breeze favouring them, Camphill led off in go-ahead style. Welsh's charge was soon besieged and although the Rovers offered a stubborn resistance, a shot from their right wing proved too many for the home custodian. This success on the part of the strangers lent more interest to the play for while they strove equally as hard to keep them out, the backs and half-backs showing up well against the wind. Play, however, was not entirely confined to one end of the field. Extricating themselves, the Rovers' front rank got over the meridian and Dow, with no one but the goalkeeper to beat, was almost on the point of scoring when Templeton, who was clearly offside, nipped the ball away and, of course, the effort went for nothing. As time went by, it seemed as though the homesters would maintain their substantial lead when McMurray handled the ball within the dreaded twelve yard limit and on the penalty kick being taken, the Wintonians found themselves only two goals in the majority. Play proceeded on comparatively even terms for a spell and then shortly before time, the visitors once more forced matters and succeeded in sending the sphere home for the third and last time. The Rovers failed to increase their total and the game terminated in their favour by four goals to three. The game throughout was an excellent one and what helped to make it more enjoyable was the almost entire absence of shady tactics. Taking the play all through, there was not much to choose between the teams in point of merit. Tomorrow (26 April 1902), the Rovers journey to Kilwinning to fulfil their return League fixture with Eglinton Thistle. The Light Blues will be at full strength and they hope to snatch the full complement of points from the Jags on Blacklands Park.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 1 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 0
One goal to nothing! Such was the result of the long-expected tussle between Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Saltcoats Seaside Rangers which took place on Wednesday evening of last week (23 April 1902) at Brewery Field, Saltcoats. We have only space for a few of our correspondent's notes on the said game. He says one of the bad features of the game was the large number of fouls against one or two of the Seaside players and the encouragement they received from a section of their supporters did not tend to improve matters. Of course, it is not meant to be inferred that the play of the Rovers was entirely free form blemish but it is questionable if a team composed of saints would have kept their tempers under such trying circumstances. The second half, we regret to say, was characterised by scenes which were discreditable in the extreme and several times, play had to be suspended until peace was restored, both players and spectators joining in the melee. It was during this half that Seaside scored the only goal of the match, the result of a long drive by one of their backs, although many spectators who were standing near the goal declared that during the scrimmage which followed one of the Rovers' backs had been held. After the game, the visitors were awarded a most 'enthusiastic' send-off and as a memento of the occasion, received a farewell volley of stones et cetera from a howling mob of youthful admirers of the Gilded Youths. To say the least of it, the Winton Parkers came in for a pretty severe handling and naturally, they will not readily forget their first visit to Brewery Field. We trust that when the return game comes off in Ardrossan, they will uphold their own reputation at any rate by striving to win in a fair and gentlemanly manner.
A second report is given below.
Winton Rovers met Seaside Rangers on Brewery Field on Wednesday night week (23 April 1902) when Seaside had again the pleasure of coming out on top by one goal to nil. As our space is limited, we give the following few notes. The Rovers had a large crowd of followers with them and we may state they were the worst conducted that have ever appeared on Brewery since the opening, anything but a credit to Ardrossan. We wonder how there are so many Saltcoats and Stevenston players in the two Ardrossan teams. Can anyone suggest a reason? A strange thing happened after Seaside got their goal. A spectator or spectators who was looking through the game through 'light blue' spectacles remarked that he had observed one the Rovers' backs being held by a Seasider while the ball was going through, Of course, this observation was eagerly seized upon by the Rovers' supporters and made the most of. The rumour reached the ears of the Rovers' backs who at once corroborated but as it was not stated which one of them had been held, they both complained of receiving that treatment. The phenomenal part is that they both blamed the same player for holding them, namely, Maxwell. As a matter of about twenty yards separated the backs at the said period, it will be seen it was no mean fear which Maxwell performed. Keep it up, Johnnie and when next you meet the Rovers, you may be able to include the half-backs and goalkeeper also in your mighty grasp while your mates put the ball through.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
One North Ayrshire League fixture was played off last Saturday (26 April 1902) and the full complement of points went to Eglinton Thistle. This was at the expense of Ardrossan Winton Rovers. The Rovers, it is only fair to mention, had to play the greater part of the game with ten players and in addition to this, their front rank was practically players from the A team, four of the regulars being absent. Bell of the Saltcoats Seaside Rangers assisted Ardrossan Celtic against Ardeer Thistle in the Scottish cup at Wandhouse but he could hardly be voted a success at centre-half. As showing the interest in juvenile football, we have only to state that the gate at the above match realised £11 odds. Some of our senior clubs could appreciate a return like this.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

KILWINNING EGLINTON RANGERS 4 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 2
On Saturday (26 April 1902), the Rovers played their return League game with Eglinton Thistle at Blacklands Park, Kilwinning. The Light Blues were weakly represented, Simpson being the only one of the regular front rank who were able to take the field and the subs were introduced from the A team. The game resulted in a win for the Jags by four goals to two. A strong breeze kept the play confined pretty much to one end of the field and when half-time was called, the Thistle led by three goals to nil. In the second period, the Rovers playing with the wind, completely hemmed in their opponents but were weak at goal and only succeeded in scoring twice, whereas the home team added a fourth point to their total shortly before time. The Winton forwards gave a poor display while their defence was also shaky and the homesters got their goals comparatively easily. As a referee, Mr Coulter, Bartonholm, was not quite a success, his decisions at times being altogether unreasonable while he allowed things to slip which no one could fail to notice. In fairness to the Rovers, it should be stated that for the greater portion of the game, they played with ten men, one of their forwards being forced to retire owing to a knee injury.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (26 April 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		14	10	3	1	41	25	21
	Kilwinning Rangers		11	9	1	1	28	7	19
	Ardeer Thistle		10	9	1	0	38	9	18
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		13	6	4	3	24	24	15
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		14	7	6	1	28	30	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		15	6	7	2	22	41	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

A BIASED SCRIBE?
A word in the ear of the scribe who writes under Our Juveniles - change the heading into Our Rovers. If he is going to be a neutral man, let him give his opinions unbiased. Not only we, but others, have noticed his partiality for the Rovers. He has no call to take a mean advantage of his position by writing to the detriment of other teams when they defeat his favourites and to rake up childish excuses to explain their non-success. If he is unable to do this, let him gracefully abdicate his post to someone who can write without prejudice. An open field an no favour is all that is required. A word to the wise et cetera.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION MEETING
At the Ayrshire Juvenile Association meeting held on Saturday evening (26 April 1902) and at the suggestion of Mr Adams, secretary, it was unanimously agreed to start a charity competition to be played by eight teams selected by the Association, the proceeds to be divided between the Ibrox Disaster Fund and the Ayr and Kilmarnock Infirmaries. The money to the infirmaries is for the purpose of ensuring beds for players under the jurisdiction of the Association who may happen to get hurt. The teams selected were placed and drawn for choice of ground as follows.
    Ardrossan Celtic v Ardrossan Winton Rovers - Mr McBeth, referee
    Kilwinning Rangers v Ardeer Thistle - Mr Adams, referee
    Vale of Garnock Strollers v Dalry Athletic - Mr Paterson, referee
    Galston Bluebell v Hurlford Thistle - Mr Wilson, referee
The above ties fall to be played on the ground of the first-named clubs and the semi-finals and final will be at Warner Park, Stevenston. The dates for games to be played were left over till the next meeting of the Association. Gold badges are to be presented to the winning team.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ASSOCIATION MEETING
At the North Ayrshire League Association meeting held last Friday evening (25 April 1902), a team was chosen to represent the Association against a Beith and District League eleven. The North Ayrshire League team is as follows - Rae, Bartonholm; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and McMurray, Winton Rovers; Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrews; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Hamilton, Ardeer Thistle.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDEER THISTLE 5 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 0
This event, which came off on the ground of the former at Wandhouse Field on Saturday (25 April 1902) attracted a large concourse of spectators, many of whom hailed form the surrounding districts. Unfortunately, a strong easterly breeze blew and the general opinion of the crowd was the game would be greatly marred in consequence. Such proved to be the case. Ardeer were first on the arena while Celtic turned up several minutes behind the advertised hour. The fact that Celtic had disposed of the Kilwinning Rangers in this competition lifted them high in the estimation of their supporters and there were those among them who hoped to see the Ardrossan lads serve the Ardeer cracks with a similar dish. Both teams lacked the services of one of their regular players but capable subs were found in Bell of Saltcoats for the Celts and Hughes of Stevenston Strollers for Ardeer. As luck would have it, Celtic won the spin of the coin and decided to play with the element in their favour. Duff started the race for honours with Ardeer but little progress was made by them. It was felt that if the Celts were to score, now was the time to pile on the agony but in the Ardeer defence, they found opponents worthy of their steel. It is hardly necessary to give details of the play this half as the battle was mainly conducted on Ardeer territory and during its progress, the sphere was repeatedly in touch. The Celts' efforts to score were somewhat crude and as a whole lacked decision badly. Now and again, the Ardeer forwards, by good combination, broke away but their visits to the other ends were few and far between. Once they did get in the vicinity of Steed but the Celtic defenders repulsed them before they got time to shoot. Time slipped away and still Celtic could not score, neither from corners or anything else. Ardeer held their stronghold safe to the finish and at half-time, the teams stood pointless. Having failed to secure a morsel of comfort, the Celts' chance seemed gone as it was not a forwards day by any means and the general opinion was that Ardeer would win the tie in the second half in a canter. Resuming, Ardeer assumed the offensive at the outset and, after a narrow shave, Biggam registered the first goal of the match before five minutes had elapsed. Play was all in favour of Ardeer and the Celts defence were taxed to the utmost. They stood bravely to their guns, however, and several minutes slipped away before Duff, clever player as he is, bracketed goal number two for his side. It was all up with the Celts now though in the next few minutes, they opened out better and got beyond the meridian only to be forced back again. At this stage, it looked a case of how many and when it is said it that marksman Duff added two more goals to his team's total ere twenty-five minutes had gone, it will be readily understood how the Ardeer lads went about their work. The game, which was stopped on some four or five occasions through players getting hurt, was conducted on very quiet lines and no one outside the arena seemed inclined to give the Celts a cheer. Steed was beaten for the fifth time by Duff and in the closing stages of the game, the Celtic forwards broke away and got in close proximity to Montgomery before they were forced back. The remaining few minutes passed off without any additional scoring and Ardeer retired easy winners of a rather poor game by five goals to nil.
A second report is given below.
The Great Scottish Juvenile cup, as the tie was termed in the posters, proved a rather lob-sided affair, both in point of play and goal-scoring but there is no doubt the better team survived the ordeal. In Ardeer Thistle, any of the clubs still in the running for the cup will find them a difficult lost to master. The Celtic lads may feel a little downcast over the result but there is not any need for sad reflections. They have performed very well in their first venture in the Scottish Cup and by steady perseverance, they may reach a higher pinnacle next season. With one exception, each team was fully represented so that in this respect, they faced each other on fair and square lines. Bell of Seaside Rangers occupied Brannan's place in the Celtic eleven at centre-half and Hughes of Stevenston Thistle Strollers filled a similar post in the Ardeer team instead of Auld who was unable to turn out. Play in the first half went mainly in favour of Celtic and although Ardeer broke away several times through clever combination and once looked as if they were going to score, yet Steed in goal was never asked to save his trust. The Celtic attacks were very weak and their shooting was not of the most deadly description. Had they secured a goal when playing with the wind, it might have encouraged them to do better but beyond striking the upright on one occasion and one or two other narrow things, the efforts of the Celts to pierce the Ardeer defence proved abortive. Much time was lost through the ball being frequently in touch and for this, the strong wind that prevailed was in some measure responsible. The initial period was practically defensive on the part of Ardeer and it must be said that they acquitted themselves well in finishing with a clean sheet. Montgomery in goal had a number of balls to negotiate but he was not tested to the same extent as Steed in the second half. With the start of the second half, the Celtic lads had every reason to dread the worst and they had perhaps some serious qualms as the ultimate issue. Having stood the brunt of the battle in the first half, the Ardeer defence were not allowed to breathe easier and their forwards set about their work in such a way as foreshadowed success. Ardeer's attacks were more dangerous and from the very outset, Steed and Company had their work cut out for them. Steed did his best to relieve the pressure by kicking the ball on almost every occasion to leeward which generally went into touch and consequently some valuable time was again lost. It looked bad and some of the spectators went to the length so say that such play was meant. The wind certainly spoiled the game and against the element, neither set of forwards made much headway, although in this respect, Ardeer had the pull in the matter of combination. Both teams were once within shooting range of the windward goal but were forced back without a try and as a result, Steed and Montgomery were simply spectators when their side had the benefit of the wind which was a strong factor. As the scores at the finish indicate, Ardeer were the better team but it was generally regretted that the breeze militated against the finer points of the game.. Had it been otherwise, we would perhaps have seen the respective sides at their best but enough was noticed to justify our opinion in saying that the better team survived. The game was characterised by several stoppages, players on each side being winded but beyond this, nothing serious happened. Comments on the players are unnecessary as it was not a day to witness the forwards of either team at their best. The respective defensive sections, however, were thoroughly well tested and here we would remark that Hughes of the Stroller deserves a word of praise for turning out and assisting Ardeer. His play contributed to ensure victory for the homesters.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

POEM
One signing himself Thistle furnishes us with the following lines.
      The Scottish Cup will be the test, we'll see who'll highest score
      These were the words in Emerald's poem, that test is past and o'er
      With what result is now well-known, superiors now the Celts us own
      We played with them as with a toy and quickly did their hopes destroy
            Did Emerald for a moment think his team would beat Ardeer
            If so, he made a huge mistake as Saturday showed clear
            Five goals to nil, 'twas easily done and had the Thistle striven
            The game at finish would have been ten, maybe or eleven
                  And so, as said, we've put an end to Celts' ambitions great
                  And with the conquered, conquerors lie, the Buffs the Celts now mate
                  Now Ardeer want to meet Seaside at Brewery Park where they reside
                  And mean to beat them by the same score as last year with as many more
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 3 - KILWINNING RANGERS 3
The Ardrossan Celtic lads found employment at home last Saturday (3 May 1902) in North Ayrshire League interests. Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle were the visitors who, flushed with their victory against Winton Rovers the previous week, hoped to pull Celtic's number down next. The Celts were weaker than usual, several of their regulars being absent and among these was included McLaughlin at half-back who was showing his form at Barrhead that day in the Ayrshire v Renfrewshire inter-county match. The vacancies in the team, however, were well filled by subs and, generally speaking, a win for the Celts was anticipated. A strong wind slightly favoured Celtic in the initial period and for the first thirty minutes, they had the best of matters. Eglinton broke away at stated periods and once had the sphere between the posts from a free-kick which Steed allowed to pass through untouched and Eglinton thus failed to count. At times, Celtic pinned their opponents somewhat closely to their stronghold but the shooting of the Celts lacked sting and effectiveness. On one occasion, they banged the sphere against the Eglinton crossbar but this effort and all others went for naught. The Eglinton defenders stood pluckily to their work and it seemed Celts were to have a harder run for honours than they perhaps bargained upon. Twenty minutes had slipped away and the teams stood pointless but shortly afterwards, Celtic opened the scoring department and having tasted blood, they thirsted for more. Two goals we quickly added to their total and being now three up, it was felt they were on the sure road to victory but as the sequel at half-time showed, 'it is never safe to shout until you are out of the wood' and in the last fifteen minutes preceding the interval, Eglinton, picking up courage, put quite a different complexion on the probable issue of the game. Their turn had come and first one goal and then another was registered against the homesters in rather smart and easy fashion. While these reverses no doubt set our boys a-thinking, they on the other hand encouraged the visitors to press forward but the remaining minutes of the first half passed away without further scoring and Celts led at the interval by three to two. The change of ends now gave Eglinton what benefit there was in the wind and with only one point separating the teams, it was difficult, on the strength of the doings of each in the first half, to say which would come out on top. The chances seemed more in favour of Eglinton but the opening phases of the second half showed that Celtic were determined to maintain the upper hand if at all possible. It was not to be so, however, for some ten minutes from the resumption with Eglinton on home territory, a shot was propelled at Steed's charge which the custodian failed to hold and the referee awarded a goal which placed the teams on an even footing. This point the Celts and their custodian protested against, we presume on the ground that the ball did not pass underneath the bar. The referee, however, allowed the point, much to the displeasure of the homesters. The succeeding play was characterised by much earnestness, if not scientific play, and of the two teams, the Celts were the more aggressive party. Eglinton, of course, had their look-in by turns but occasionally, their visits were spoiled by being ruled offside. The Celts wrought hard to the finish to secure the winning goal but they could not pierce the Eglinton defence this half so the game ended in a draw, three goals each. On the day's play, such as it was, the Celts deserved better, however.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 2 - ARDEER THISTLE 7
A much better attraction than the above (Winton Rovers A Team v Largs Athletic), however, was provided at Winton Park on Tuesday evening last (6 May 1902) when the Rovers and Ardeer Thistle contested their claim for North Ayrshire League points. It was Ardeer's first visit to Winton Park this season and as they have earned distinction in the so-called juvenile football world, the turnout of spectators was large and enthusiastic. The evening turned out remarkable fine after a passing thunderstorm and as each team was strongly represented for the occasion, an interesting match was promised although the current of opinion went in favour of Ardeer winning the game and the coveted points. In giving a few notes on the game, we begin by saying that the Rovers had the best of the choice of ends from the fact that a setting sun was at their backs though the Ardeer defenders were the worst sufferers from the sunshine which only covered half the length of the pitch. The initial period of the game was the best contested, the play being of a well-balanced nature and replete with interesting incidents. First the one goal and then the other was the order but of the two teams, Ardeer were certainly the more dangerous lot when thy got in the vicinity of the target. The respective defences, however, stood the test well and time slipped away without either side being rewarded for their labour of love and the interest of the spectators, as may be expected, was well maintained. Twenty minutes of exciting play had been witnessed and during that period, each custodian had to avert disaster. The Rovers' supporters, no doubt, felt pleased at the stand their pets were making against the Ayrshire Cup finalists who, to the eye, seemed the bulkier and abler lot and apparently going for all they were worth. In this latter respect, we feel sure the Rovers were exerting themselves to the full but, despite their best efforts, their citadel was captured after about half an hour's play. Carrick Hamilton sent in a dangerous corner from Ardeer's left and lo, McMurray of the home team beat his own custodian. This was an unfortunate piece of play but no blame could be laid against Welsh for the loss of this point as he got no chance to play his part. The Rovers continued to have their share of the game and in the open seemed as effective as their opponents but at goal lacked decision badly. Ardeer improved their position by registering a second goal and certain defeat seemed to stare the Rovers in the face when ends were changed and when the merits of the respective teams were taken into consideration. Shortly after resuming, however, the dark cloud which hung over the Winton Parkers at this stage had soon a silver lining as 'wee' Simpson succeeded in beating Montgomery for the first time with a sure shot, a success which was loudly cheered by the home crowd. This bit of success did the ground lads no harm for after some give-and-take work, they came again and Montgomery was eluded for the second time, thus placing the teams on a level. These successes put quite a different complexion on the game and now the spectators encouraged the Rovers lustily on to victory. For a brief space, they persisted breaking in on the visitors' lines but beyond this, their efforts were futile. Ardeer got away to the other end and in quick time, they were once more in the ascendant. From this point to the finish, Ardeer remained masters of the situation and it turned out to be the most disastrous half-hour in the game for the Rovers. Ardeer asserted their superiority in fine style and, playing the better game, ran out winners by the very comfortable score of seven to two. Of the seven goals scored by Ardeer, three of these at least ought to have been safely negotiated. Tomorrow, Saturday (10 May 1902), the local clubs, Celtic and Rovers meet at Winton Park and it is to be hoped this match will be characterised by a spirit of rivalry similar to that shown in the above game.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS A TEAM 10 - LARGS ATHLETIC 1
The Rovers having an off-day last Saturday (3 May 1902), Winton Park was utilised by the Rovers' Reserves and Largs Athletic for the day. The game was a somewhat poor one and terminated in a rather easy victory for the Reserves by ten goals to one. A much better attraction, however, was provided at Winton Park on Tuesday evening last (6 May 1902) when the Rovers and Ardeer contested their claim for North Ayrshire League points.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
Eglinton Thistle and Ardrossan Celtic robbed each other of a North Ayrshire League point last Saturday (3 May 1902) at Celtic Park. The equalising goal scored by Eglinton was strongly disputed by the Celts but the referee, Mr Paterson, Kilwinning, stuck by his decision. Ardrossan Winton Rovers had an off-day on Saturday but on Tuesday evening last (6 May 1902), they opposed Ardeer Thistle at Winton Park under North Ayrshire League auspices. The game, which attracted a good turnout of spectators, terminated seven to two in favour of Ardeer. Ardrossan Celtic and Winton Rovers seem to be on the best of terms with each other and, we understand, have arranged to provide the football public of the district with another local derby on Saturday first (10 May 1902) at Winton Park. The match is a friendly one and we express the hope it will be so in every sense of the term. All we wish to see is a game free from foul and mean tactics and this is possible on both sides.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (3 May 1902) - actually Tuesday 6 May 1902.

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardrossan Celtic		15	10	3	2	44	28	22
	Kilwinning Rangers		12	10	1	1	34	10	21
	Ardeer Thistle		11	10	1	0	45	11	20
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		14	6	4	4	27	27	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		15	7	7	1	30	37	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		16	6	8	2	25	47	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

CHANGE OF OPPONENTS FOR WINTON ROVERS
With reference to the paragraph which appears under Juvenile Football Notes on page seven, intimating the match for tomorrow (10 May 1902) between Winton Rovers and Celtic at Winton Park, we are authorised to state that it has been declared off owing to the Celtic club having a fixture with an outside team for the same afternoon. We need hardly say that such an action as this on the part of the Celtic officials cannot be appreciated by their near and dear neighbours, the Rovers and especially after the match had been duly announced by posters. The Rovers, however, are not to be beaten at this little game, as we are instructed to state that the Saltcoats Seaside Rangers have come to the rescue and will play the Rovers at Winton Park tomorrow instead of Celtic. We hope to see a big crowd and a pleasant friendly.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC AFRAID OF KILWINNING RANGERS?
Can the Ardrossan Celtic not give Kilwinning Rangers the game they were wanting or are they afraid of another ten to one defeat?
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

ANCIENT FOOTBALLERS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN CELTIC
Last night (8 May 1902), the ancient footballers of the district were to play Ardrossan Celtic at Winton Park, the proceeds of the match to go to the Ibrox Disaster Fund. At the time of writing, were have not been favoured with the names of the Ancients' eleven but we have no doubt a fairly representative team will be turned out.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR -- BIASED ARDROSSAN SCRIBE?
We are in receipt of the following letter.
Ardrossan, 5 May 1902
Sir
It was very interesting and amusing reading that which was provided under Seaside Ripples in last Friday's (2 May 1902) issue in reference to the game played the previous week between Seaside Rangers and Winton Rovers. The writer's high opinion of Ardrossan spectators and the manner in which he scolded the individual who writes under Our Juveniles was indeed well in keeping with the traditions of the Seasiders. Poor Seaside! You have been unjustly wronged for it must have been ill-will that prompted the statement that a Seaside Ranger would so far forget himself to hold an opponent. The Saltcoats correspondent generously informs us that a 'blue spectacled' supporter of the Rovers thought he saw Johnny holding the back and, as I distinctly witnessed this myself, it may be taken for granted that I am the party referred to. I can really sympathise with Seaside Rippler in his learned advice to the writer of Juvenile Notes and the only remedy I can suggest is that the Rangers run a newspaper themselves. The Seaside Chronicle would, I think, be an most appropriate title and with such a model of impartiality as the Saltcoats scribe in the editorial chair, the effort could not fail to succeed. Then would he have ample scope to 'praise and magnify' the doings of his pets; then would there be an 'open field and no favour'; and then no more would the actions of the Brewery youths be subjected to the censure of a prejudiced writer. However, should the latter think himself unworthy of his position and decide to retire, it might possibly benefit a number of clubs in the district - the Seaside Rangers in particular - if his successor proved to be such another as he who writes on behalf of the Gilded Youths.
I am et cetera
Lance
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (10 May 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		12	11	1	0	50	15	22
	Ardrossan Celtic		15	10	3	2	44	28	22
	Kilwinning Rangers		12	10	1	1	34	10	21
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		14	6	4	4	27	27	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		15	7	7	1	30	37	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		17	6	9	2	29	52	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

BEITH AND DISTRICT AND NORTH AYRSHIRE LEAGUES PLAY TOMORROW
The inter-League match between representations from the Beith and District and North Ayrshire Leagues has been fixed to come off tomorrow, Saturday (17 May 1902) at Garnockside Field, Glengarnock. This will be the first match of the kind between these juvenile associations. Looking at the team selected to represent North Ayrshire, we find the majority of the players are the same as did so well in the recent inter-county games against Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire, the Ayrshire representatives winning each game very handsomely. Tomorrow's match, however, is League v League and should the North Ayrshire eleven turn out as selected, we fancy victory should be theirs. The North Ayrshire League team is as follows - Rae, Bartonholm; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and McMurray, Winton Rovers; Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrews; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Hamilton, Ardeer Thistle.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 3 - GLASGOW MAXWELL XI 2
It was unwise policy of the part of the Celtic officials to throw off the Winton Rovers last week and play Glasgow Maxwell XI on Saturday (9 May 1902) after the local rivals had been billed to try conclusions. There was a meagre attendance of onlookers at North Crescent Park and we are afraid the benefit match was a financial failure. Celtic's victory of three to two on that account had not the ring about it it would otherwise have had. The counter-attraction at Winton Park killed the above attraction and the Celtic officials have themselves to blame. To say the least of it, the action of the Celtic in throwing off the Rovers during the week was unsportsmanlike and one wonders what they would have said had the Rovers been the sinners. We will perhaps hear more about this matter later on.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 2 - SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 1
The Rovers have Saltcoats Seaside Rangers to thank for filling the unexpected breach (caused by the cancellation of their game with Ardrossan Celtic) and although the match was only announced at the last hour, the turnout of spectators was large and enthusiastic. This was expected but the game was not by any means a great affair, so far as play was concerned. From the glowing accounts hitherto given respecting the form of the Seasiders, we fully expected to see a good thing but we were very much disappointed. The game, which culminated in favour of the Rovers by two to one, was a somewhat poor one and after Saturday's exposition, neither team has any room to crow about their capabilities. The Rovers, however, cull pleasure at the thought of avenging their recent one to nil reverse at Saltcoats.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 3 - WEST KILBRIDE AMATEURS 0
On Tuesday evening last (13 May 1902), Ardrossan Celtic tried friendly conclusions with West Kilbride Amateurs at North Crescent Park. The game resulted in favour of the Celts by three to nil.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1 - ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT ANCIENTS 3
Last week, a series of evening matches were inaugurated at Winton Park, the proceeds of which are to be devoted to the Ibrox Disaster Fund. Mr W Fullarton of Queen's Park fame has organised a senior eleven of Ancient players residing in the district, several of whom have earned distinction in the football world. The team opposed to them was Ardrossan Celtic and it goes without saying that the Ancients gave the aspiring Celts a fine run for honours. The game, which ended in favour of the Ancients by three to one, ranked as one of the best played at Winton Park this season in the course of which several of the Ancients evinced fine form. We would like to give their names but have not authority to do so. The crowd was a large one and we are pleased to state that the gate was the best ever taken at Winton Park. The second match was billed to take place last night, Thursday (15 May 1902) on the same pitch between the Ancients and Winton Rovers. A word of praise is due to Mr Fullarton and his Ancients and to the local clubs in playing matches for such a commendable object as the Ibrox Disaster Fund.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 1 - ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT ANCIENTS 2
The second of a series of football matches in aid of the Ibrox Disaster Fund which was played last night, Thursday (15 May 1902) on Winton Park between the Ardrossan and District Ancients and Winton Rovers resulted in a win for the veterans by two goals to one. Tomorrow, the Stevenston Thistle Strollers will try friendly conclusions with the Rovers at Winton Park.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE LEAGUE ELEVEN TO PLAY IN WINTON ROVERS' JERSEYS
The Light Blue jerseys belonging to the Ardrossan Winton Rovers have been pretty much in demand this season. These were the colours which the Ayrshire representatives donned at the inter-county games with the Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire elevens and now, we are told, these are to be the colours under which the North Ayrshire representatives will play against the Beith and District lads at Glengarnock tomorrow (17 May 1902). If the success which has attended the Light Blue jerseys in the inter-county games is to be repeated tomorrow, more lustre will be added to the colours and the players who wore them.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 2 - SALTCOATS SEASIDE RANGERS 1
In the early part of last week, it was publicly intimated that Ardrossan Celtic and Winton Rovers were to provide the local habitués with a game last Saturday (10 May 1902) at Winton Park but when the tail-end of the week had been reached, it leaked out that Celtic had cancelled the fixture and had arranged to play a Glasgow club on their own pitch. Such reprehensible conduct as this naturally occasioned much comment in football circles and the action of the Celts at this time has not in any way raised them in the estimation of the lovers of the popular pastime. We have not learned what the Rovers intend doing but we think the case is one which ought to be reported to the Association. Fortunately, representatives of the Rovers and Seaside Rangers met on Thursday night (15 May 1902) and, as the latter club had their match with Irvine Thistle postponed, it was there and then agreed that the Saltcoats lads would play the Rovers at Winton Park. This was a lucky arrangement and it was felt the match would also command the larger share of public attention, as it did. The other week, it will be remembered, Seaside go the better of the Rovers at Brewery Park by the narrow margin of one goal to nil and no doubt, they hoped to assert their superiority once more on Saturday. The Rovers, on the other hand, though lacking the services of Dow, Hattie and Bennett, held quite a different opinion and to make a long story short, the Rovers were successful in wiping out the small account contracted at the Brewery. Taking the game all through, it was a rather tame affair, neither team showing good form. In the first half, with the breeze blowing across the pitch, the Rovers had just the best of matters. After some fifteen minutes play, from a free kick, the Rovers secured the first goal, which one of the Seasiders unfortunately headed through. The visitors made a number of dangerous incursions into home territory and the custodian got one or two balls to negotiate. In the last quarter of an hour, the Rovers notched a second point and half-time sounded with the Seasiders two goals in arrears. The second period saw the Seasiders more in evidence and about fifteen minutes from the resumption, they were awarded their initial goal, a point which looked suspiciously offside but which the referee allowed and which would probably have been averted had Carmichael, one of the home backs, not made a miskick. From this stage to the finish, runs and counter-runs followed with the balance of play in favour of the Seasiders who seemed to stay the game better than the home lads. The Rovers made several attempts to improve their position but, like their opponents in the first half, they could not force an opening and as a result, all the scoring was done at the other end of the field. Time and again, it looked as if the Seaside lads were to draw the game but it was not to be and for this McMurray at back was largely responsible. At times, he saved his side when all seemed lost. The game finished in favour of the Rovers by two goals to one. Several incidents occurred during the progress of the game and on one occasion, it was stopped through a spectator interfering with one of the home players. Spectators who cannot stand and watch a game without molesting players, verbally or otherwise, should learn to stay at home.
A second report is given below.
Owing to Irvine Thistle disappointing Seaside on Saturday (10 May 1902), the Rangers travelled to Ardrossan to play their return friendly with the Rovers and the latter turned the tables on their rivals by two goals to one. The teams this cry quits on the two games this season. We don't want to particularise as we fancy our old friend of the Echoes will be desirous of having his say this week. We hope Lance and a few of his self-righteous friends were present to witness the 'send-off' Seaside got at Ardrossan. A Seaside player got his eye cut with a stone before he left the field but that was only a beginning as the brake which conveyed Seaside was literally besieged along Winton Street and Glasgow Street with stones, common or garden, 'kale runts' et cetera. We fancy, after this, the Rovers scribe has no room to talk but he will likely sink dumb on the matter. We have to thank the Rovers' committee and players for their efforts in trying to stop the 'bombardment' and had it not been for their commendable energy, there is no saying how Seaside would have fared. With reference to Lance's letter, we observe it is dated from Ardrossan thus accounting for its general tone. After having done our best to arrive at what he means to be at, we at last come to the conclusion that he should like to see us abjectly and humbly apologising to that all-wise and mighty writer of Our Juveniles for having the presumption to question any of his statements and especially for having the temerity to voice any views of ours which did not coincide with that paragon's. Our opinion of the Ardrossan supporters was not so far out as Saturday's treatment of Seaside showed. With regard to the little bit about the holding of the back, another look at our report would do him no harm. He is so hopelessly mixed up in his argument that we don't see any great necessity for commenting thereon. Taking his letter all through, we have no hesitation in describing it simply as 'twaddle', the result of that very prevalent complaint, namely, 'swelled-head'.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

WILLIE FULLARTON HAS BROKEN COLLAR BONE
As a result of the Queen's Park v Stevenston Thistle football match, there has been handed over to the Stevenston Nursing Association £17 11s 5d. This is a bit behind last season. Still, considering that there were a great many other collections going on, it is creditable to the working classes of Stevenston. Included is the above is a sum of 34s collected from the Queen's Park Players themselves which was quite unlooked for and very generous on their part. Willie Fullarton whom, I learn, hails from Ardrossan and who played with his team, Queen's Park, on that occasion, has since, I learn, met with and accident, his collar-bone being broken.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 5 - IRVINE SAINT ANDREW'S 3
In the first round of the Gold Badge competition, under the auspices of the Kilwinning Eglinton Football Club, Winton Rovers defeated Irvine Saint Andrews by five goals to three. The game was played at Blacklands Field, Kilwinning last night (22 May 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (17 May 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		13	12	1	0	53	16	24
	Ardrossan Celtic		15	10	3	2	44	28	22
	Kilwinning Rangers		12	10	1	1	34	10	21
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		15	6	5	4	28	30	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		15	7	7	1	30	37	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		17	6	9	2	29	52	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC DRAW WITH IRVINE THISTLE
Representatives of the Orange and the Green did battle at North Crescent, Ardrossan on Saturday last(17 May 1902). The contending teams were Celtic and Irvine Thistle and although the game ended in a draw, the Celts were the better lot on football. After the first ten minutes, the Celts fought with only ten players owing to Tait being badly hurt on the face.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

WINTON TO PLAY SAINT ANDREWS AND CELTIC TO PLAY THISTLE STROLLERS
We understand the Winton Rovers and Irvine Saint Andrews were to play at Kilwinning last night, Thursday (22 May 1902), the occasion being a tie in the first stage of the Kilwinning Eglinton juvenile tournament. The same evening, Ardrossan Celtic were to play the Thistle Strollers at Stevenston in a return friendly.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

A CELTIC POEM TO THE ROVERS
We are in receipt of the following lines from one who signs himself Light Blue.
      Such teams as Celtic should shut shop, a truly mean deceitful lot
      High time they showed some sportsmanship, they've shown enough their nasty bit
      To do their neighbours out a gate, outcome of spite and jealous hate
      Arrangement made at Rovers' cost and this much would to them been lost
            But Seaside proved our friends in need, how fared the Celts with all their greed
            I feel to state their feelings plain, they lost instead of reaping gain
            For shillings theirs we drew our pounds, complete financial dressing
            In this as well as at the game we've taught the Greens a lesson
                  Besides all this Celts feared the meet, they looked for certain sure defeat
                  The Blues intended this to do but lo, the Celtic take the rue
                  But be it known without a doubt, we'll take a higher place
                  And oust the Celts from badges all, we'll shift them in short space
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

ARDROSSAN CELTIC 2 - IRVINE THISTLE 2
Our boys found employment last Saturday (17 May 1902) at North Crescent Park, the visitors being Irvine Thistle. There was a thin turnout of spectators, no doubt due to the other attraction the same afternoon at Winton Park. We played with the breeze the first half and we had the best of the exchanges. Some ten minutes from the start, while the Celts were attacking, one of the Irvine backs, as Tait on the left rushed in on him, received a nasty looking fall and the game was suspended for a brief space. Fortunately, matters turned out better than was at first anticipated as the Irvine player resumed again but unfortunately, Tait was so badly injured about the eye that he had to retire, leaving the Celts to finish the game with ten players. Despite this handicap, the homesters were first to score which was easily registered. The visitors made repeated attacks but some time elapsed before they succeeded in equalising matters. The Celts continued to do most of the pressing work and eventually, after the Irvine keeper had first saved his trust, the ball was returned and seemed to strike the corner of the goal and pass through. Some doubt was felt as to whether a goal had been scored or not but the 'knight of the whistle' awarded a point and at half-time, Celts led by two to one. Previous to this, one of the Irvine players seemed inclined to fight but better counsels prevailed. The second half opened best for Irvine and the Celts' keeper had one or two certainties to negotiate which he did well. As time advanced, Celtic, though short-manned, made several gallant attempts and once or twice, the Irvine stronghold was somewhat luckily saved. The game continued to be hard fought and no doubt, the home lot were showing themselves to best advantage so far as football was concerned. The home attacks, however, were frustrated and in the last ten minutes of time, Irvine equalised matters with a well-taken goal. The game ended in a draw, two goals each. On the day's play, Celtic were the better team and one could not have grudged them victory. Brannan appeared in his old position at centre-half while Steed, who played at back, was supplanted by a newcomer in goal, and he acquitted himself well.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902
Phrases like 'Our boys' and 'We played' suggest that the reporter was an Ardrossan Celtic supporter.

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 2 - STEVENSTON THISTLE STROLLERS 4
On Saturday last (17 May 1902), the Winton Rovers had a friendly visit from the junior combination know as the Stevenston Thistle Strollers. There was a fairly good turnout of spectators. The Rovers were without Carmichael, McCulloch, Simpson and Reid whose places were filled by subs and the last-named player caused some comment by turning out for the visiting team. The opening passages were of a give-and take nature and play was mostly contested in midfield. The visitors were rather fortunate in the scoring of their first goal which came as the result of a long high shot from one of their half-backs, the ball dropping through the top corner of the goal without Welsh making any attempt to stop it, he apparently thinking it was going over. After this reverse, the Light Blues played up better and the Strollers' stronghold now came in for some attention. The efforts of the homesters at length culminated in a penalty kick being awarded them but this proved fruitless, McMurray shooting over the goalkeeper's hands. On the Rovers' returning to the attack, the Strollers' custodian brought off several smart saves but after an exciting scrimmage at the goal, he was ultimately beaten which success put the teams on level terms. The homesters had the best of matters for the greater part of this half and tried hard to find another opening but the interval arrived without any further scoring being effected. Shortly after resuming, the Rovers notched a second point and a few minutes later the Strollers equalised matters once more. Another penalty looked promising for the juveniles but, alas for his side, Findlay sent the ball past. Following this, the Strollers again took the initiative and Nicol, with a swift, low shot, gave the strangers the leading goal. The Rovers made strenuous efforts to gain the equaliser but there was a lack of finish about the play of the forwards which nullified their efforts. The visitors succeeded in registering a fourth point and the game ended in their favour by four goals to two. During the second period, McMurray of the Rovers received a nasty blow and play had in consequence to be suspended for a little. He was badly bruised about the face but played on to the finish of the game.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (24 May 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		13	12	1	0	53	16	24
	Ardrossan Celtic		15	10	3	2	44	28	22
	Kilwinning Rangers		12	10	1	1	34	10	21
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		15	6	5	4	28	30	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		15	7	7	1	30	37	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		17	6	9	2	29	52	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL NEWS
The Ardrossan Winton Rovers journeyed to Galston on Saturday (24 May 1902) and met Darvel in the semi-final of the Galston and District Cup. As the game culminated in a draw of three goals each, the teams fight their battle o'er again. The Rovers, we are told, held the winning card till near the call of time when Darvel succeeded in equalising. Seeing that the clubs receive nothing out of the semi-final and the fact that the Rovers have been put to some expense travelling to Galston, it is thought the Association should endeavour to have the undecided tie played at, say, Stevenston or Kilwinning. It is hardly fair that the Rovers should be saddled with more expense than Darvel Thistle. We understand a protest was lodged by Irvine Saint Andrews at their game with Winton Rovers last Thursday night week (22 May 1902) under the auspices of the Kilwinning Eglinton Juvenile Tournament. The protest - "We protest against you." - is quite a novel one and, it is feared, will not be very favourably entertained. Tomorrow, Saturday (31 May 1902), Ardrossan and District Ancients will play the Winton Rovers at Winton Park. It is said this will be the last appearance of the Old Brigade. The kick off is timed for 4 pm.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

STEVENSTON JUVENILE COMPETION CUP DRAW
At a meeting held in the Warner Park clubhouse last Saturday (24 May 1902), the draw for the first round of Stevenston Thistle's Juvenile Competition resulted as follows.
   Ardrossan Winton Rovers v Irvine Saint Andrews
   Kilmarnock Portland v Irvine Thistle
   Bartonholm Britannia v Kilbirnie Ladeside
   Ardrossan Celtic v Dalry Athletic
   Ardeer Thistle v Saltcoats Seaside Rangers
   Kilwinning Rangers v Stevenston Strollers
The first game, we are officially informed, will be played on Thursday 5 June when Winton Rovers and Irvine Saint Andrews will play their tie. These teams, it may be mentioned, were also first to open the Kilwinning Eglinton club's juvenile competition last week and on that occasion, the Rovers stepped out the winners by five to three. The Saints have an opportunity to wipe out that defeat at Stevenston on 5 June.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

DARVEL THISTLE 3 - ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS 3
At Riverside Park, Galston on Saturday (24 May 1902), Ardrossan Winton Rovers met Darvel Thistle in the semi-final for the Galston and District Cup. The Rovers had a good following and there was a fair attendance of onlookers. Owing to the rain, the ground was in a very slippery condition. The teams were as follows. Darvel - Greig, D Wishart, B Ross, Baird, Lawson, Young, Russell, McIlroy, D Ross, J Wishart and Craig. Rovers - Welsh, Carmichael, McMurray, Bennett, Findlay, McGill, Anderson, Hattie, Stevenson, Davidson and Simpson. Winning the toss, Darvel chose to play with the assistance of the wind in the first half and Stevenson kicked off for the Rovers who immediately assumed the aggressive. Play continued in the vicinity of the Darvel goal for a little but latterly became more open, both defences having their share of the work. For something like twenty minutes, the game proceeded on uninteresting lines, the play on both sides being unsteady. A long drive from one of the Darvel half-backs sent the sphere well towards the Rovers' end and, although Carmichael had ample time to clear, he hesitated so long that Welsh come out in order to save his charge with the result that they bungled matters between them and the ball went trundling into the net. This success seemed to put new life into the Darvel youths for a few minutes later, they returned to the attack and their outside right, taking advantage of an opening caused by slackness on the part of the Winton defence, beat Welsh for a second time with a rocket shot. This state of affairs was not at all satisfactory to the Light Blues and it became apparent that they must play up of say goodbye to their chance of entering the final. Against the wind and rain, they battled bravely to pierce an opening and had the forwards shown a little method in their attack would have been more fruitful. They at length succeeded in getting the ball through but as Hattie had bee a little premature in his attention to the goal keeper, the point was disallowed. During the remainder of this half, both ends were visited but the interval arrived with no alteration in the score. The Rovers commenced the second period with evident determination to regain their lost ground and the Darvel custodian was early called upon to save. A quarter of an hour elapsed and still the Darvelites kept their citadel intact for which they had in a great measure to the thank the man between the sticks. As the outcome of a corner kick, the sphere was again hovering dangerously near the Darvel stronghold and after some exciting passages, the Winton Parkers had the satisfaction of seeing the leather safely banged in the net. Nothing succeeds like success, it is said, and a couple of minutes later, they registered the equaliser which resulted from a foul against one of the Darvel backs. Findlay who was entrusted with the kick, tipped the ball across to McMurray whose shot found the mark with terrific force. On the resumption, play was evenly contested for a brief space. The Rovers again took up the running, forcing another corner which was nicely placed and presto!, Stevenson notched the leading point for the Light Blues, the third within ten minutes. In the closing minutes of the game, the Darvel forwards had a breakaway but the ball was sent past. Prior to this, however, one of the Rovers received an injury about six yards form the goal and as play was suspended for a little, on resuming, the ball was thrown up. A short scrimmage ensued, the result of which was that Darvel secured the equalising point. A little later, the whistle announced time and the game this terminated with the teams on level terms, three goals each. Commenting on the game, it was somewhat 'scraggy' throughout and mistakes were frequent although some excuse might be found in the fact that the ground was in a bad condition and the ball exceptionally heavy. The Rovers had a monopoly of the play, taking the match all through and had they taken advantage of all their opportunities, they would doubtless have a point or two more to their credit at the finish. The goalkeeper and outside right were the pick of the Darvel team while Findlay and Anderson, the latter a recruit from the A team, were prominent for the Rovers. The refereeing of Mr W Murchie, Troon, gave general satisfaction.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (31 May 1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		13	12	1	0	53	16	24
	Ardrossan Celtic		15	10	3	2	44	28	22
	Kilwinning Rangers		12	10	1	1	34	10	21
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		15	6	5	4	28	30	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		15	7	7	1	30	37	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		17	6	9	2	29	52	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

CHARITY MATCHES
It would seem as if some of the juvenile trundlers were to have no relaxation from their sport. Only a few weeks ago, the Ayrshire Juvenile Association announced a series of charity matches from which it hoped good results will follow. None of these proposed matches have as yet been played but it is to be hoped a move will soon be made to have these carried out. The matches are as follows.
   Ardrossan Celtic v Ardrossan Winton Rovers - Mr McBeth, referee
   Kilwinning Rangers v Ardeer Thistle - Mr Adams, referee
   Vale of Garnock Strollers v Dalry Athletic - Mr Paterson, referee
   Galston Bluebell v Hurlford Thistle - Mr Wilson, referee
This is quite a district draw and each match should be a signal for a good turnout of the partisans of each club.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS SECRETARY TO RETIRE?
We have been informed Mr James Wallace, the energetic secretary of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers has lately signalled his intention to resign office. Should this be true - and we have no reason to doubt our informant - it goes without saying that the Rovers will be the losers as in Mr Wallace they were fortunate in having the services of a faithful secretary. Untiring in his efforts, Mr Wallace has always had the best interests of the club at heart and the fact that this has been the case since the formation of the club, his retiral from the secretaryship is regretted by the Rovers. We express the hope of many of the members that Mr Wallace will reconsider his decision and, for the sake of the club, continue to render his valuable services for, say, another season at least.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT ANCIENTS v WINTON ROVERS GAME POSTPONED
Owing to the inclement nature of the weather last Saturday (31 May 1902), the match announced to take place at Winton Park between Ardrossan and District Ancients and Ardrossan Winton Rovers was postponed. This match, however, may be played later on.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

WINTON ROVERS TO PLAY NEWMILNS THISTLE
The Rovers, we believe, have secured a fixture for tomorrow, Saturday (7 June 1902) with Newmilns Thistle, the game to take place at Winton Park, Ardrossan. As a number of excursionists from the Newmilns district will pay a visit to the town that day, there is some chance of a good gate and, let us hope, a good game being the outcome.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE LEAGUE v BEITH AND DISTRICT LEAGUE MATCH REARRANGED
We have been informed that the inter-League match between representatives of the North Ayrshire and Beith and District Leagues which was recently postponed has been arranged to take place on 14 May at Glengarnock on the ground of Vale of Garnock Strollers. By way of refreshing memory, the team chosen to represent North Ayrshire is as follows - Rae, Bartonholm; Aitken, Dalry Athletic and McMurray, Winton Rovers; Wilson, Irvine Saint Andrews; Muirhead, Kilwinning Rangers and McLaughlin, Ardrossan Celtic; Lynch, Kilwinning Rangers; Nicol, Ardeer Thistle; Duff, Ardeer Thistle; Bannerman, Kilwinning Rangers and Hamilton, Ardeer Thistle.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

STEVENSTON THISTLE JUVENILE TOURNAMENT
In connection with the Stevenston Thistle Football Club juvenile tournament which, as stated in last week's issue was expected to have been started last night, Thursday (5 June 1902), we have been officially informed that new arrangements have been made and that the competition will begin on Tuesday evening, 10 June. We are in receipt of the order of the different ties and from these it will be noticed that two local clubs provide the first game. The ties are as follows.
   Tuesday 10 June - Saltcoats Seaside Rangers v Ardeer Thistle
   Thursday 12 June - Kilwinning Rangers v Stevenston Strollers
   Tuesday 17 June - Ardrossan Winton Rovers v Irvine Saint Andrews
   Thursday 19 June - Ardrossan Celtic v Dalry Athletic
The kick-off each evening is at 7 o'clock.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

WEST KILBRIDE AMATEURS 1 - ARDROSSAN CELTIC 1
Like many other clubs, Ardrossan Celtic had an off-day last Saturday (31 May 1902) and we feel sure they did not regret their inaction, the weather conditions being against football. The Celts, however, have not finished the season and on Tuesday evening last (3 June 1902), they journeyed to West Kilbride to play a return friendly with the Amateurs of that village. The Celts did not manage to score a victory but they did the next best, a draw of one each being the result of the game.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

NORTH AYRSHIRE JUVENILE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TABLE
The following table shows the position of the respective clubs in this competition up to and including last Saturday (7 June1902).

			Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Goals For	Goals Against	Points
	Ardeer Thistle		14	13	1	0	56	18	26
	Kilwinning Rangers		13	11	1	1	39	11	23
	Ardrossan Celtic		16	10	4	2	46	31	22
	Dalry Athletic		14	8	6	0	33	36	16
	Kilwinning Eglinton Thistle		15	6	5	4	28	30	16
	Ardrossan Winton Rovers		16	7	8	1	31	42	15
	Bartonholm Britannia		17	6	9	2	29	52	14
	Irvine Saint Andrew's		15	6	9	0	19	47	12

                                                       Two points for a win and one for a draw.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902