FOOTBALL — Blackthorn To Play In Strathclyde And Greenock LeaguesBLACKTHORN Rovers are hoping to build on a decade of Sunday football experience to pursue success in the Stax-sponsored Strathclyde Saturday Morning Amateur Football League (SSMAFL).
The ‘Thorn were crowned champions of the Greenock and District Welfare League (GDWL) in 2011 and the following season finished runners-up in the Scottish Welfare Cup.
After a few lean years, the team has overhauled its squad and decided to pursue success on both fronts, retaining a presence in the locally-run GDWL while hoping to work through the tiers in the highly competitive SSMAFL which boasts 56 teams spread across three divisions.
To help them on their way, Blackthorn have had their season kick-started with the support of Wilkinsons Highlandwear in Paisley and local company BinPin who have provided a substantial sponsorship boost. This has allowed the team to purchase new kits.
After an up and down pre-season, Blackthorn begin their Strathclyde Saturday Morning AFL campaign with sectional cup matches against Port Glasgow United and Port Glasgow Celtic.
They will be hoping that the success they have enjoyed off the park thus far can be converted into results on it.
