Queens begin at home to Forfar as McLaughlin’s exit confirmed

Jun 20 2012 by Andrew Burns, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

QUEENS will kick off their league campaign at Palmerston against Forfar Athletic.

The Loons will travel to Dumfries for the opening day of the new campaign on Saturday, August 11.

Allan Johnston’s side will have a good opportunity to gather some early momentum, with three of the Doonhamers’ first four second division fixtures at home.

Albion Rovers and Arbroath will travel to Palmerston after Johnston’s first away league fixture at East Fife.

The first south-west derby – away to Ayr United – will take place on September 15 before Paul Hartley’s Alloa come to town on September 29.

Annan Athletic will begin their season at Forthbank against Greig McDonald’s relegated Stirling Albion on August 11.

Harry Cairney’s team face three of their first four games away from home and will travel to Montrose and Clyde after hosting Berwick Rangers.

Regional rivals Stranraer then come to Galabank on September 15.

The Ramsdens Challenge Cup opens the 2012-13 term on Saturday, July 28, with Queens on the road to Dumbarton and Annan hosting Livingston.

The first round of the League Cup takes place on Saturday, August 4, the draw for which will be made soon.

Meanwhile, midfielder Scott McLaughlin’s exit from Palmerston was confirmed at the weekend.

The 28-year-old has joined third division title favourites Peterhead on a two-year-deal.

He signed for Queens last summer under then manager Gus MacPherson on a one-year deal.