Dallas checks in at Dunterlie

Jul 5 2012 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

ARTHURLIE manager Mark Cameron has continued his rebuilding job at Dunterlie by bringing in Chris Dallas.

The 25-year-old striker was on the books at East Kilbride Thistle last season and ended the 2011/12 campaign as top scorer at the Showpark.

However, the Jags failed to stay in the Superleague First Division and will now ply their trade in the Central District First Division.

That gave Cameron the opportunity to move for Dallas, with Arthurlie beating three other Junior outfits in the race for his signature.

Cameron said: “We are delighted to complete the signing of Chris because the likes of Petershill, Clydebank and Shotts were all in for him too.

“Given the fact that Shotts get to play in the senior Scottish Cup next season, we are delighted that Chris has opted to come and play for us.

“Chris will give us a bit of pace and energy. He’s also at a good age as he’s only 25, so it’s a good piece of business for the club and I’m glad we went in early doors to get him.”

Cameron has also dismissed speculation that he’s set to farm out defender Davie Wilson to another club.

It had been suggested that Wilson, who re-signed for Arthurlie recently, would be shipped out to Ayrshire club Dalry Thistle on a loan deal.

Cameron, though, has poured cold water on that rumour. He said: “Not true. Davie has re-signed for the season and he will be given every opportunity to cement his place in the Arthurlie first team.”

As well as Wilson and Dallas, Cameron has already recruited James Marks, Mark Blakey, Steven Crawford, Ryan Deas, Stephen McKeown, David Merriman, Alan Muir, Paul Stewart and Robert Walker for next season.

Heading out the door are James Lundie and John Johnston, who are both expected to clinch deals with Cumnock.

Arthurlie will play Craigroyston in a pre-season friendly at Dunterlie on Saturday, July 21, with kick-off at 2.30pm.

Season tickets will be on sale at the Craigroyston game and at every home pre-season and Sectional League Cup match.

These are priced at £45 for adults, £25 for concessions and £10 for those aged under 16.