Tayport looking towards mix of youth and invention

A number of personnel changes have been made at Tayport FC in anticipation of the new season '“ the aim of which is a swift Super League return.

Players have departed the Canniepairt, others have come in – and manager John Ovenstone will be running the rule over seven or eight trialists in the weeks to come.

Out are Richard Cargill, Clark Kay and Gary Sutherland, while Gregor Anderson is on trial with Montrose. Scott Finlay was transferred to Newburgh and Drew Fleming is leaving for New Zealand, while Kristofer Rollo has joined Lochee United.

Ovenstone expects to re-sign Matthew Adam once he returns from USA summer camp work, while still on the books are Allan Tulleth, Stefan Elvin, Marc Ogg, Dale Reid, Dale Robertson, goalkeeper Gavin Sorley and, from the burgeoning youth ranks, Grant Patterson.

Two bought players – Craig Sturrock and Grant Mowatt – and one on free transfer – Scott McDowell – have arrived from Montrose Roselea. Connaire Connolly has re-signed, while Jamie Mackie has come from St Andrews United.

Hoping for an early return to the Super League – and not being a yo-yo team – Ovenstone said: “We need inventive players. It’s going to be a really strong league, with Tranent, Sauchie, Downfield and St Andrews United in there.”

First pre-season games are away at Brechin Vics on July 16 and Lochee at a neutral venue on July 20.