Johnstone Burgh boss admits he saw out 2024 with 'tinge of regret' after cup blow
Murdo MacKinnon has looked back on 2024 with fondness but admits there is a “tinge of regret” in there as well.
MacKinnon was appointed manager of Johnstone Burgh in April last year after most recently being in charge of Cumnock Juniors.
The Burgh boss got the Keanie Park outfit back to the Premier Division of the West of Scotland League after a “hard-fought” campaign.
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Now, sitting fourth in the Premier Division just after the festive period, the club is going strong this term; however, losing out in the Junior Cup to Arthurlie last season in a fierce contest ensures a slight regret for MacKinnon when he reflects on the last year.
“Looking back on 2024, it is filled with positivity with a tinge of regret,” he told the Paisley Daily Express.
“We have brought the club back to the Premier Division through a hard-fought promotion. An unbelievable effort in the last 10 games saw us promoted with two games to spare.
“Reaching the Scottish Junior Cup semi-final and losing over two closely fought legs against Arthurlie gives an edge of regret, but having the club back playing at that level in front of two massive crowds shows where the club now operates.”
MacKinnon went on to say how the fans, who have been growing over the years, can see a change in the club since their days in the lower leagues.
With ambitions to improve Keanie Park for not only the club, but the community, the Burgh boss feels that they are in good hands.
He went on to say: “Our support have watched the club in the lower leagues for many years, so to be back in the top league and playing in top level games will be exciting and will mean a lot to them.
“We have fantastic owners and a great committee at the club, who are working hard to improve the club’s facilities and gain our SFA licence, which will elevate the club again to compete in the senior Scottish Cup.
“The future of the club is bright, we have an excellent team containing some of the best young players in the league, along with great experience. We are all eager to see what 2025 will bring and, hopefully, we will see the success that everyone deserves.”
Burgh were set to face Hurlford United in their third round West of Scotland Cup game at Keanie Park on Saturday. The match had been moved to Johnstone after the last two postponements at Hurlford’s Blair Park.
However, the weather beat the game again after it failed a pitch inspection due to a frozen surface. A date has yet to be announced for the rearranged fixture which will be the fourth time it will have been scheduled.
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