Testimonial for St Johnstone keeper Alan Main

Jan 22 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

ST Johnstone goalkeeper and club record appearance holder Alan Main has been granted a testimonial, writes Gordon Bannerman.

The Perth keeper, who has clocked-up an unprecedented 361 starts for the club in two spells at Perth, is being honoured by Saints fans, with plans coming together for a variety of events.

Yesterday, the testimonial year was officially launched at McDiarmid Park, with Binn Skips unveiled as the main sponsor.

Main, now 42, broke Drew Rutherford’s record last season at Dunfermline and has featured in a dozen games this season.

He admits his Perth days may be numbered after losing his first team spot to summer recruit from Rangers’ Graeme Smith.

But Main stressed: “It’s not so much about Alan Main as the team. Maybe the toys would have come out of the pram in my younger days but it‘s not the first time I’ve been dropped in my career.

“You really take it hard for the first couple of games. There’s never a good time to be dropped. But I’ve had a great career and it’s still going. I suspect I might be the oldest registered player in Scotland and that’s something to take pride in.

“Along with our goalkeeping coach Gordon Marshall and a few guys like Jody Morris, or others who might be on the bench or in the stand, I believe I can offer experience which can benefit younger players new to this level. I see that as part of my job.

“Graeme Smith has come in and done well since my last start at Kilmarnock but there is a still a chance I might have to come in so it’s vital to keep sharp physically and mentally.

“I’ll be ready if required at any stage and I certainly don’t wish Graeme ill. There is no negativity and there’s a great atmosphere in training.

“Obviously I’m out of contract in the summer and when I was younger that might have been a worry. It’s outwith my hands but I’ll sit down with the manager and whatever he decides is fine by me. I’m not looking any further ahead.”

Main, who has enjoyed a great relationship with the supporters since he first arrived during the Paul Sturrock era, is honoured to have secured a testimonial and sponsorship in the current economic climate.

Local businessman John McGregor, chairman of Binn Skips, said: “As a lifelong Saints fan I know what Alan Main has contributed to the club over many years and we are delighted to back the testimonial. I’m sure support will be forthcoming from many other quarters for such a great club servant.”

Mr McGregor, whose business interests including farming, property, the Bein Inn and the waste management project at Binn Farm, added: “I am sure the supporters will enjoy the various events.

John Cowmeadow, chairman of a 12-strong committee, said: “It’s great to have support from Binn Skips. Alan is well on his way to becoming a club legend.

“We have a dinner planned for June 5 at the Lovat Hotel, a golf day at King James VI on September 22 and a string of events aimed at the full cross-section of the Perth fan base. We intend to make sure everyone can share in the celebrations for a player whose appearance record may never be broken.”