The Monarchs team for 1999 is taking shape. Last year the team appeared to be built from the top and the bottom filling in the middle order later. Peter Carr and Kenny McKinna were appointed at the top two and Blair Scott and Barry Campbell were recruited at reserve. The final places were eventually filled by Kevin Little, Robert Larsen, and Paul Gould.

This year, Monarchs appear to be building from the middle. Peter Carr was quickly signed on a full transfer from Belle Vue to fend off a bid to sign him by Glasgow. The promotion had been concerned about the inconsistency displayed by their bottom three of Blair Scott, Barry Campbell and Paul Gould. The hints suggested that one of the three would be retained. Blair Scott was favourite because his average was the lowest. This was of concern given the very tight points limit of 41 for 1999.

Monarchs’ next moves came with the signature of Stewart McDonald on loan from Wolverhampton. Stewart came in on a very low average of 4.63. His signing was announced at the Monarchs Video Night along with the news that Blair Scott (4.34) would join him at second string. The very low points limit made it unlikely that Monarchs could accommodate the return of Robert Eriksson despite terms having been agreed.

This left two heat leaders plus two reserves to be signed. It was assumed that Kevin Little (8.03) would fill one of the heat leader slots but these involved negotiations with cash-strapped Berwick over a transfer or a further loan deal.

James Grieves was signed to fill the second heat leader slot on loan from Wolverhampton. He also came in on a comparatively low average of 8.34 given that he is virtually unbeatable around Armadale.

Both Grieves and McDonald have lots of scope to improve their averages considerably. McDonald was a successful heat leader for Glasgow in 1997 and beat all the top Monarchs around Armadale at one time or another. He should be good for 7 to 8 points plus if all goes well. Blair Scott also has much scope for improvement. Even Peter Carr should be able to increase his average considerably assuming that he avoid the mechanical problems of 1998.

On the assumption that Kevin Little was signed the team would be as follows:

Thus two 3.x reserves will be required. This leaves 0.61 of a point to play with and remain within the 41 point limit. Given that Ross Brady has signed for Peterborough, it would appear that the top targets for Monarchs will include Scott Courtney (3.00) and David McAllan (3.03). With the right reserves, Monarchs will look a fair bet for honours in 1999.

News will be posted as available.