Football West News

It was an inconsistent season for the Lions in 2017, but they have a new coach at the helm who has put plans in place to improve their fortunes in 2018.
 
Keegan Ashley has taken over from Rob Milevski and he said the squad have worked hard to prepare for the new season.
 
“Pre-season has been tough to say the least, but the lads have been committed and respectful towards putting in the hard work,” he said.
 
“We’ve had tough sessions, and there has been a real desire to progress as a team. Our aim is to be the best we can possibly be.
 
“2017 was not in my control, so it’s not for me to comment on as I have a lot of respect for those in charge at the time and the club.”
 
Ashley said a number of players headed to Macedonia Park in the off-season, and the squad has a good mix of youth and experience.
 
He has signed former Hearts and Falkirk defender Liam Henderson and former Livingstone midfielder Dean Cummings and skipper Danny O’Riordan. With these players in the mix the Lions will be a team to watch in 2018.   

"Darren is as hard as nails and loves a battle," he said.

"He leads with his aggression and can also play. He’s one of the first to help his team mates out, as I’m sure you’ll see this season. I’d also like to mention David Micevski who is like a new signing to us being out for most of last season, and he adds a lot of quality to the team.’

Macedonia Park has a reputation of bringing on talented juniors and Ashley believes this will continue.

“We have quite a few young boys who have been getting lots of minutes in pre-season friendlies including the Night Series,” he said.
 
“Ben Campbell, who is an attacking player with an eye for goal is one to watch in 2018. He works hard and has a heap of ability.”
 
Stirling Lions will start their NPLWA season with a trip to Perth Plasterboard Centre Stadium to take on Inglewood United on Friday, February 23 – 7.00pm Kick-off.