St Mirren Park passes big test after schoolboy clash

Apr 21 2009 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

ST MIRREN bosses have revealed the Paisley club have received glowing praise after successfully staging the first international match at their new stadium.

It was an historic occasion at St Mirren Park on Friday night as the Under-18s international between Scotland and England took place.

Nearly 2,500 fans turned out to see the next generation of talent on display and the game was also screened live on Sky Sports.

Sadly, it was a disappointing night for Scotland as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat in the Carnegie Centenary Shield contest following goals from Taylor Morgan after 43 minutes and Robert Carter after 54 minutes.

Both of the Schools Associations from Scotland and England heaped praise on the Buddies’ behind-the-scenes team for their professional approach in staging such the game.

St Mirren’s general manager Brian Caldwell said: “After the game, we received some fantastic comments from the Scottish and English Schools Football Associations for our handling of what was the first international match staged at St Mirren Park.

“Both associations were very impressed with what we had to offer in terms of the facilities, the organisation, stewarding and the way we catered for both teams and the supporters.

“Hopefully, the success of Friday’s game will mean we can stage a few more international fixtures in the future.”