As you walk down your local high street and you see signs like “shop local” and “use it or you’ll lose it” does that not smack a bit of what the real issue is behind the failings of berwick Rangers?
Can anyone tell me what sort of scouting network Berwick has? As it sure as hell looks like they don’t look anywhere local!
Im sure all supporters would rather see 17 local lads showing passion and fight, than what’s currently on offer.
For me there has been a major flaw in the model and structure at berwick Rangers for years.
With such a vast area like the borders and north Northumberland to pick up players from, then this has to of been where scouting was taking place and not what has happened for years bringing players in from Edinburgh and afar. I know for a fact that good players that would of gave there right hand to play for berwick over the years were never even looked at or thought about.
Take a look at a local lad now called Jack Hamilton, why was he not snapped up a few years ago before Livingston came sniffing. Yes he played for half a season and ended up top scorer but why was he not at berwick for two or three seasons and then sold on for a good wee profit?
Im going to answer my own question really and it’s all down to how local football is perceived by berwick and the managers they appoint. Simply they don’t have any knowledge of lads that play in the local and surrounding areas and are not willing to look.
Before anyone says “what about Brydon” yes I know he’s local and yes he’s a good player but there is also another 3 or 4 local lads that play that position that are as good or better in my opinion.
Berwick Rangers really need to start looking closer to home, set a structure up that sees youngsters going up through the levels required and eventually playing for the club they love. With all the clubs in the area ranging from youth to amateur to semi-pro it’s not to difficult to get something setup so these players don’t end up being overlooked and ultimately end up playing with there mates at the Stanks.
All that said I do wish Berwick all the best and really do hope the manage to stay in the league for next season