Fleming: Don't Count Us Out

Feb 10 2008 By Rob Fairburn

GRETNA may have a new-look side but it was the same old sorry story as the SPL basement boys crashed to another defeat on the road.

Yet recalled keeper Greg Fleming still believes there is hope of survival if they win their games in hand, starting at Easter Road on Wednesday.

Fleming said: "There have been a few changes and it was difficult at first getting used to all the new faces but it's not bad now.

"It was disappointing to lose but never say never. We still have two games in hand and if we can close the gap on Kilmarnock then things may turn for us. We could not afford to concede that early goal.

It lifted their fans who got right behind them although I thought we came back well.

"I was pleased to get back in the side after being out since December 22 and I did OK."

Gretna manager Davie Irons was full of praise for on-loan Everton striker John Paul Kissock who was outstanding after the break and a constant menace to the Jambos defence.

He may have one of the dodgiest haircuts in the SPL but the boy can play.

Irons said: "It is a good deal for us to get Kissock on loan becausewe could never afford someone of his quality. He is out to prove to Davie Moyes he can play first-team football for Everton.

"I thought the sending off of Danny Hall was harsh, especially the second yellow. He has made two tackles and been booked twice.

"But the players kept going and gave a good account of themselves.

"Now we have to take something from the Hibs game. We had a relatively new side and were a goal down in three minutes which did not allow us to get a foothold.

"But the second goal killed us. I thought the referee hesitated before giving the penalty.

"As long as there is one team in touching distance we won't give up."