Hair to the throne

Apr 17 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

Hair to the throne

CELEBRITY Saints fan Stuart Cosgrove is bracing himself for a “grand” occasion at Dens Park next week.

Radio Scotland’s “Off the Ball” presenter has kicked-off a wacky tribute to bearded Saints skipper Kevin Rutkiewicz.

If the defender leads Saints to victory against Queen of the South on Sunday, the team can clinch the championship in Dundee.

Rutkiewicz is refusing to shave or have his haircut until the title has been won.

And on the Weareperth fans website, Cosgrove has pledged cash to the club’s youth development for every fan spotted sporting a beard at Dens. He is prepared to take a £1000 hit.

He’ll be donning a fake beard himself for the occasion, coming hard on the heels of the Pearly King outfit tribute to Jody Morris he supported at Clyde.

Cosgrove said: “I thought it would be a bit of harmless big match fun. The idea is that as many Saints fans as possible wear beards – real or fake – in honour of our stand-out captain.

“It’s great for the family support and ideal for fans who want photos of the big day out.

“Kevin has been a colossus and no matter what happens between now and the end of the season he has won the hearts of all Saints fans.

“He is currently sporting a grisly beard and so Saintees should follow the leader. I remember previous beardies including Shaggy Jenkins and keeper Stewart Kennedy.

“It’s been done once before when Danny McGrain was manager of Arbroath but Saints fans will take the tribute to another level and we expect to see every shape of beard from goatees to full Santa beards.

“Joke shops in Perth will see out the recession that's for sure.

“It’s been a tough and close fought season. I think we'll win at Dundee, if only by a whisker!”

Player of the year contender Rutkiewicz said: “It’s a superb touch from the fans. Obviously we have to focus on Sunday’s game but it would be great for the fans if we could clinch the title at Dens. Guys who have been here for a few years are well aware of the rivalry.

“I gave up shaving for Lent and decided to carry on until we won the league. I didn’t think I was superstitious but I might be just a tad.

“I usually stick with a habit. Last season it was eating tablet before games and at half-time. If I’m in a routine I don’t want to change it.

“But I’m sure I’ll have time to spruce myself up for the presentation if we do secure the championship.”