Saints keeper Alan Main’s big day a family affair

Aug 3 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

SAINTS fans turned out in record numbers for the weekend testimonial to honour record appearance holder Alan Main.

The glamour game with a Manchester United XI attracted a 4555 crowd and ended in a 3-2 win for the Old Trafford side, managed by Champions League winner Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

It was a day for the family, with Main’s oldest son Nicholas converting a penalty.

The former Perth Academy pupil, a 17-year-old midfielder signed by Rangers, received approval from the Ibrox club to enjoy a cameo role in his dad’s big day.

Main (42), who made an unprecedented 361 appearances for St Johnstone, said: “The fans were fantastic. It was a great turn-out.

"I even got some game time for Man United and now I can say I kept a clean sheet for them, and Nicholas can say he scored against United with his first touch!

"I’d hoped he would get the chance to take it if we did get a penalty. It made the day for me.”

Perth businessman John Cowmeadow, of man-of-the-match sponsors Brewin Dolphin and chairman of the testimonial committee, said: “It was a memorable day for Alan and everyone connected with the testimonial year sponsored by Binn Skips.

“The committee would also like to thank St Johnstone, manager Derek McInnes and Manchester United for making the day such a success.”