Hurlford sign eight new players

Jul 3 2008 By Clair Fullarton

HURLFORD boss John Crawford has been busy in the close season securing the signatures of eight new players in preparation for the new campaign.

And the biggest news is the welcome return of striker Ryan Caddis, who left Blair Park just over two years ago to join Ayr United.

The 24-year-old has signed a new deal with Hurlford after spells at Somerset Park, then Stranraer as well as amateur side Hurlford Thistle.

Hurlford boss John Crawford said: "We are thrilled to have Ryan back with us. He’s a match winner and is an outstanding talent. He’s delighted to be back with us too."

The hunt for new players is not over as the Blair Park gaffer is keen to secure the signatures of another three players, and he knows exactly who he’s looking for — another ex-senior player and two who currently play in the Premier.

John Crawford said: "These players may take a little more time to bring to Blair Park, but we are happy to take our time as we now have a squad of about 20 players already."

The other new players are Campbell McLuskie, a defender, who previously played for Lugar Boswell; Mark Cameron, a midfielder, whose previous teams included Bonnyton and Lugar; Mark Morrison, an ex-Lugar Boswell midfielder; Darren Wilson, a goalkeeper from Whitletts; James Davidson, an ex-Whitletts midfielder; Martin Lawrie, an ex-Craigmark defender and former Queens Park man Stuart Strachan.

The Blair Park boss added: "These new signings are all fairly young, but they’ve had quite a few years of junior football experience between them.

"They’ll give us more legs and will hopefully build on the depth we already have."

The new starts have all signed on two-year deals and will join a few familiar faces from last season.

Re-signed so far are Hurlford stalwarts Graham Lawless, Neil McKinnon, Gary Russell, Scott McKie, Gary Robertson, Michael Hart, Robert Burgess, Scott McGregor, Darryl Nimmo and Paul McAneny.

Released and available for transfer are Barry Crawford, Tony Murphy, Paul Carr, David Craig, Jamie Gilliland, and keeper Ally Caldwell.

The club is gearing up for a series of friendlies, kicking off with Royal Albert at home on Wednesday, July 23, at 7pm.

Next up is a home fixture against Larkhall on Saturday, July 26, at 2pm, before going to Bellshill at 7.15pm on Wednesday, July 30.

The team is then taking part in the Shettleston mini tournament on August 2 and 3.

The team is still looking for a physio. If you are interested in taking on the role, please call Lorrie Headley on 07748884377 or Bill McMahon on 01563 821042.