NEXT GAMe
VS 
- St Andrews Utd FC vs Musselburgh Athletic
- East of Scotland Premier Division
- Saturday 8th November 2025 - 14:30
- Clayton Caravan Recreation Ground St Andrews
- Match Sponsor: Westport Print and Design
Saints Triumph After Nightmare Start
Match Report – St Andrews Utd FC 3–2 Whitburn Juniors – The Clayton Caravan Recreation Ground
A poignant evening at The Recreation Ground began with a minute’s applause in memory of former player and manager Brian Cook, who sadly passed away last Saturday. The tribute was warmly observed by everyone at The Rec.
However, the match itself started in the worst possible fashion for St Andrews Utd. Whitburn struck in the 5th minute, a powerful effort from the edge of the area from Crawford beating Fleming. Just four minutes later, the visitors doubled their lead with a simple cross and finish from Crawford, leaving Saints stunned and with a mountain to climb.
The response was impressive. On 19 minutes, Graham finished off a superb attacking move to reduce the deficit. Momentum continued to shift and, from a long throw in the 30th minute, a flick-on allowed Thomson to level the contest with a great header. Whitburn later struck the post in the 38th minute, a fortunate escape for Saints as an entertaining first half concluded 2-2.
After the break, St Andrews seized control. A precise through ball split the Whitburn defence on 55 minutes, allowing Dunn to apply a composed finish and put Saints ahead for the first time. Craik then went close shortly after, his snapshot just wide as the home side pressed strongly.
Changes followed late on as Dunn made way for Aiken in the 70th minute, with Clapperton replacing Milne five minutes from time. The closing stages demanded resilience, as Whitburn delivered wave after wave of high balls into the box. Fleming produced a stunning save to deny a certain equaliser, before a last-ditch header on the goal line prevented another strike from crossing.
Deep into stoppage time, Saints cleverly retained possession near the corner flag, running down the clock to protect their advantage. After an exhausting finale, the whistle finally sounded to confirm a magnificent comeback victory.
Full Time: St Andrews United 3–2 Whitburn Juniors
Man of The Match – Ryan McManus
Images from Graham Hutchison. See more HERE
A big thank you to CLLR Ann Verner (SNP) for sponsoring today’s game (pictured with the team before kick off)
Late Fightback Not Enough for Saints
MATCH REPORT: St Andrews United 1–2 Penicuik Athletic
East of Scotland Premier Division – Clayton Caravan Recreation Ground
St Andrews Utd FC were narrowly defeated at home by Penicuik Athletic, going down 2–1 despite a determined late response that kept the contest finely balanced until the final whistle.
The visitors opened the scoring in the fifth minute when a driven strike inside the box struck a Saints defender’s hand. The referee immediately awarded a penalty, which Kemp converted confidently, placing the ball into the corner to give Penicuik an early advantage.
Saints responded positively, with new signing Cammy Graham driving through the middle and nearly connecting with Spence’s intelligent flick. Moments later, McManus produced a curling effort that narrowly missed the target, while at the other end Penicuik struck the post, only for Fleming to gather the rebound and maintain parity in the contest.
On 17 minutes, Saints’ appeals for a handball penalty were dismissed, and while the home side dominated possession in the first half, they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities to challenge the visiting goalkeeper consistently.
The second half saw tactical changes with Craik and Gillan introduced, injecting energy and intent into the Saints’ attack. Several promising moves followed, including a well-worked chance in the 54th minute that was denied by a smart save from the Penicuik keeper. Despite these opportunities, the equaliser proved elusive.
Penicuik extended their lead in the 76th minute. Robertson’s precise pass found Kemp, who fired a low, accurate shot into the far corner to secure his second goal of the match.
Saints rallied late in the game, and McManus struck a superb free-kick from the edge of the area in the 85th minute to reduce the deficit and give the home side renewed hope. In stoppage time, Saints applied intense pressure, with a back-post header from a corner narrowly missing the target.
Despite the late surge, Penicuik maintained their composure and saw out the victory, leaving Saints to reflect on missed opportunities and what might have been.
Full Time: St Andrews United 1–2 Penicuik Athletic
Saints Scorer: McManus (85’)
Man of The Match: Kyle Sneddon
Images from Graham Hutchison. See more HERE
Brian Cook: A True Saint
Everyone at The Rec was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Brian Cook last Saturday. A true legend of St Andrews United, Brian proudly represented the club between 1964 and 1975, scoring 79 goals in 366 matches and establishing himself as one of the finest inside forwards in Junior football. The committee sends sincere condolences to Brian’s family at this difficult time.
Born in Kirkcaldy on 12 December 1941 and raised in Kennoway, Brian honed his skills with Frances Colliery Juniors before joining Saints in 1964. Renowned for his clever touch, vision, and creativity, he became a key member of the side that enjoyed multiple league and cup successes. His influence grew year upon year, and he captained the team during some of its most competitive campaigns of the era.
Brian transitioned into management while still registered as a player and, in 1973, became St Andrews United’s first recognised manager of the modern era. He rebuilt and revitalised the squad, achieving promotion with an impressive record and guiding the club to strong league finishes. Over 285 matches in charge, he delivered 118 victories—a club record that remains untouched.
Respected, talented, and dedicated, Brian Cook’s contribution to St Andrews United will never be forgotten
Action-Packed November Awaits
It’s a massive month ahead for St Andrews United FC, with a run of crucial fixtures both at home and on the road
After a bright start to the season, Saints have shown real quality and determination — particularly in the cup competitions, where some impressive results have kept spirits high. However, league form has hit a sticky patch in recent weeks, and the focus now is on turning performances into points and climbing the East of Scotland Premier Division table.
The action kicks off at the Clayton Caravan Park Recreation Ground on Saturday 1st November against Penicuik Athletic, before a thrilling midweek clash under the lights on Tuesday 4th November versus Whitburn. The week rounds off with a blockbuster fixture against Musselburgh Athletic on Saturday 8th November — three huge home games that could set the tone for the rest of the season.
Cup excitement follows on Saturday 15th November, when Saints host Rutherglen Glencairn in the Fourth Round of the FinestCarMats.co.uk South Challenge Cup. The team’s strong cup form this season will give them confidence heading into this one.
To finish the month, Saints hit the road — travelling to Bo’ness Athletic in the Premier Division on Saturday 22nd November and then to Broxburn Athletic for the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup Fourth Round on Saturday 29th November
With the backing of the fans and belief within the squad, November could be a defining month. Let’s get behind the lads and make The Rec a fortress!
Saturday's Match Sponsor
Westport Print & Design in St Andrews delivers professional print solutions with a personal touch. From business cards and brochures to signage, branding, and bespoke creative projects, our expert team ensures quality, precision, and fast turnaround. Local, reliable, and dedicated to your vision—bring your ideas to life with Westport Print & Design
Match Sponsorship
Become a Matchday Sponsor!
Be part of the action and back your local team for the 2025/26 season with our Matchday Sponsorship package – only £150 per match! Enjoy light refreshments before the game and at half-time, have your photo taken with the team, and receive recognition as our official Matchday Sponsor on social media. You’ll also get the honour of selecting and presenting the Man of the Match award.
November match sponsors…
01/11 Cllr Ann Verner (SNP)
04/11 The Arran, St Andrews
08/11 Westport Print
AVAILABLE against Rutherglen Gartcairn in the SRCC 4th round
Don’t miss this fantastic advertising opportunity and chance to support community football!
📧 Email: ericgillespie@hotmail.co.uk
Sponsor Spotlight
We’re proud to shine this month’s Sponsor Spotlight on Life Sport Travel, proud sponsors of Saints player Greig Spence. Experts in creating world-class sporting experiences, they specialise in unforgettable trips for teams, fans, and golfers alike.
From pre-season sunshine camps to elite training facilities, golf getaways, or tennis and padel breaks, Life Sport Travel takes care of every detail—so you can focus on performance and enjoyment. Their ever-growing portfolio of resorts and venues spans Spain, Portugal, and soon Thailand, South Africa, Dubai, and the USA.
Beyond training camps, they also open doors to the world’s greatest sporting events, including the Champions League Final, Wimbledon, Formula 1, and the Ryder Cup. Trusted by professionals and loved by fans, Life Sport Travel makes every trip seamless and memorable.
👉 Discover more at www.sporttravel.life
To view all our latest match images and player of the year awards please CLICK HERE. Thanks to photographer Graham Hutchison for providing the excellent camerawork!
New Club Shop
Show your support for St Andrews United FC by visiting our brand-new official online club shop!
The shop is your one-stop destination for everything St Andrews United — from matchday essentials to stylish leisurewear. Explore the Kit Top-Up collection, featuring a great range of shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, polos, shorts and training gear in both adult and junior sizes. Choose fan favourites like the Kinnettles Horn Hoody, the Wisp Training T-shirt, or the Anduin ¼-Zip Top. You can even add personal touches such as your name or a squad number to make your gear unique.
Every purchase directly supports St Andrews United FC, helping fund vital projects, and future club success.
It’s quick, easy, and secure to shop online — so don’t wait! Visit the St Andrews United FC Macron Club Shop today, wear your colours with pride, and be part of the journey.
League Table
Last Match
3-2 
- Opponents: Whitburn Juniors
- Competition: EOS Premier Division
Saints Online Shop
