Black is not amused by lacklustre Airdrie performance

Jul 15 2009 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

KENNY BLACK admitted his Airdrie United side must do better after a lacklustre pre-season friendly defeat to Raith Rovers, writes Colin Paterson.

The Diamonds lost 2-0 at Stark’s Park on Saturday and the manager felt the display against John McGlynn’s men left a lot to be desired.

“I was pleased with how we did through the week against Falkirk and credit where it is due, but this was a disappointing performance,” he said.

“We did slightly better at times in the second half but over the 90 minutes Raith probably looked the more sharper and brighter side.

“We got caught in possession and struggled with five and 10-yard passes all day but I’d rather we had the mistakes at this stage and not in a few weeks.”

Black handed a start to new signing Scott Gemmill who had a glorious chance to draw the Diamonds level just before half-time.

“If he miskicks it then the ball would probably have gone in,” added Black.

“But I thought he did fine. He is exactly what I wanted as he has bags of energy and he only came off near the end because he had run himself into the ground.

“He is the type of player I think the supporters will identify with as he has a really good work ethic.”

Black gave three trialists a run out, with Australian midfielder Frankie Lagana, ex-Clyde star Ricky Waddell and a mystery French striker all involved.

But the tall Frenchman endured a frustrating afternoon and a head knock saw him depart ahead of the interval.

“He played for Partick on Tuesday and suffered the same injury after scoring so he has played two games in Scotland and been injured in both,” added Black.

“Frankie certainly gets stuck in. He has ability, is very enthusiastic and has good mobility. We saw flashes of what he has to offer.”

THE Airdrie United club shop will be opening at the following times for fans to pick up their season tickets for the 2009/10 campaign.

July 16: 6-8pm; July 17: 12-2pm; July 18: 12-3pm; July 19: 2-4pm; July 21: 6-8pm; July 24: 12-2pm.