A bad night for Queens It wasn`t the best of nights for Queens` boss Kenny Brannigan as they kicked-off the new season at Gretna last night. Not only did his side surrender a 2-1 lead to lose 3-2 with a late goal, but two of his top players limped off injured. Big Sean O`Connor had to leave the field just before half time while David Lilley had to be helped off the park in the dying minutes which didn`t look good. Kenny admitted, "I was gutted and sick at how it all went--particularly the injuries. Just nothing went right for us! "Apart from the result itself, we`ll now be without our skipper for about six weeks owing to that late injury and that`s the last thing we want right at the start of a season. "Craig Reid and possibly Marc McAusland could both miss the Annan game. You just don`t think all that could happen in a `friendly match`. "Our keeper, David Hutton, has also an injury and he too might be out for several weeks as well. "All three goals we conceded were down to unforced errors--but that`s football for you! "Of the young players I felt Gavin Reilly did exceptionally well and `Magic` Johnstone looked good as well. `Magic` is an experienced player who`s been with the likes of Rangers, Hearts and Kilmarnock." The manager also said "The Annan match will be more conventional with 11-a-side and fives subs. It will be more like a proper game of football". Said Gretna boss Stuart Rome after last night`s encounter, "That was more of a training game and the result meant very little. But it was still nice to say that we beat a top First Division side like Queen of the South. Our second goal was right weird! A long pas-back by a Queens` defender hit the post and was then deflected into the net by their own keeper. But they all count! "Queens made about eight changes in the second half and it just proves what a strong squad they have. However, it was great to have them down ot Raydale Park again as they always bring a big support. Our actual attendance on the night was 504." Bill Goldie
MATCH REACTION FROM THE OS