EDINBURGH CITY and Spartans, who have both applied to join the SFL following the resignation of Gretna, were visited by a fact-finding delegation from the SFL yesterday.
The SFL received five applications for the vacant spot with Preston Athletic, Annan Athletic and Cove Rangers from the Highland League all due to be visited today.
Edinburgh City play their home games at Meadowbank Stadium, a ground which was used
for Scottish League matches for 20 years when Meadowbank Thistle, formerly Ferranti Thistle, joined the League in season 1974/75.
"We already have an SFL compliant stadium and facilities," said Edinburgh City secretary Grant Coffin, who guided the SFL delegation around Meadowbank.
"Edinburgh City made an application when Gretna were first admitted five years ago and we always said that if another opportunity came along then we would reapply. There are ongoing debates about the redevelopment of Meadowbank Stadium although I have no doubt that Edinburgh City FC is included in the plans for a new ground.
"Edinburgh City is ready to make the step up both on and off the playing field. We are financially sound and we currently have a playing squad who would not be an embarrassment to the Third Division."
At Spartans' new Soccer Academy at Ainslie Park the SFL delegation were given a vision of the club and its involvement with the local community in north Edinburgh by Craig Graham, the Spartans' Club Captain.
"We have a strong story to tell with our new grass pitch and all-weather surfaces along with brand new changing rooms, boardroom and facilities for disabled people," said Graham.
The next step, after all five clubs have been visited, will be for these clubs to make a presentation to all current 29 SFL member clubs at Hampden Park on July 3. There will then be a vote on the day to decide which club will replace Gretna and the opening fixture will be on July 26, away against Clyde in the Challenge Cup.
Meanwhile, Spartans have been busy on the player front. With keeper Kevin Brown retiring. Chris Flockhart, who has been between the sticks at Berwick Rangers for the past two seasons, has been signed. Robbie Manson has also joined from the relegated Shielfield outfit and attack-minded player Nicky Walker joins from Brechin City along with Civil Service Strollers striker Daryl Devlin.
The full article contains 402 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
