BENCHMAN: Keep it simple, stupid!

WELL DESERVED

The SFA Hall of Fame Dinner is a great evening where those who have made an outstanding contribution to the game in Scotland are honoured by their peers.

There are a few Falkirk connections on display in the Hall of Fame room at Hampden Park, notably John White and Alex Ferguson, and on Sunday night, Alex Smith was inducted.

His role in developing young players, leading teams to cup wins and league successes is well-known, but his role as a senior figure in management and coaching is significant.

The reaction to the award among the audience spoke volumes and the room was packed with Scotland internationalists who had really appreciated his help and assistance, as well as famous managers who had sought his advice during hard times.

HARD TO BEAR

That was a sore one. A draw looked inevitable. This is a tough league and Falkirk’s fifth position should not be seen as a portent of doom for those in navy blue.

There will be many slip-ups by Hibs and Dundee United before May, and a couple of Falkirk wins will give the table a different look.

The old cliché about marathons and sprints was never more apt.

At the start of October, United were in fifth place, six points behind Queen of the South.

STATISTICS

Scott Arfield would have had nightmares watching his miss against Manchester United on Match of the Day.

It was the kind of shot that we’d seen him put away in his days as a Bairn.

In an amazing game, United had 37 shots on goal, but failed to score.

As we’ve said before- the only statistic that counts is goals scored.

You can have all the details of passes completed, metres covered, percentage possession- it doesn’t matter one bit.

Philosopher- managers are feted, wined and dined and the secret to their great success is sought by fawning writers and broadcasters. Save yourself trouble guys. Here is the secret to success- score more goals than the other team.

IT’S A MAN’S GAME?

Congratulations to Glasgow City on winning their tenth title in a row.

They don’t get the recognition they deserve because they are “just” a women’s team.

Last week, the Falkirk Herald probably gave them the biggest coverage of any paper in Scotland.

From the days of the Munitionettes of World War One, the women’s game has been something of a novelty- until recently that is.

Take yourself along to an international match and see how the skill levels have increased.

Scotland will be at the Euro Finals in Holland in the summer and they deserve support.

The girls are part-time and make many sacrifices to play for their country.

ANSWERS

Last week’s picture featured Alex Young, Alex Parker and Jimmy Gabriel - all of Everton.

The club managed by Alex Parker was 
Southport.

TEASER

Who were Falkirk’s opponents in their five Scottish Cup Finals?

BENCHMARKS

Match rating: 7

Team rating: 6

Opposition: 6

Referee: 6

Best Bairn: Gasparotto