Football: Cambuslang's Derek has two medals in his sights

Jan 23 2013 by Kenny Smith, Rutherglen Reformer

Cambuslang man Derek Young hopes 2013 can be one of the best of his career, by clinching two medals.

The former Cathkin High pupil has been at the heart of the Queen of the South engine room this season, helping the Doonhamers to open up a 19 point lead at the top of the second division table.

And the ex-Aberdeen ace also hopes to collect a Ramsden’s Cup medal on April 7, when his club face Partick Thistle in the final.

Derek (32) said: “We’re that far out in front, it’s incredible. We never saw it that way at the start of the season, although a lot of people tipped us to win it as we’re the only full-time club in the league.

“But to play the way we have been done, and to get the results we’ve had, it’s been incredible, and it’s all down to the manager Allan Johnston and Sandy Clark, who are making sure we’re focussed and doing what’s expected of us.

“It’s been great personally as I’ve managed to keep myself fit, and only missed a few games with wee niggling injuries.

“But the main thing is to win the league this season.

“The league challenge cup has been a real bonus, especially when we knocked out Rangers at Ibrox, which no-one expected us to do.

“I never expected anything like this when I signed last summer, to have some good results against SPL sides in the cup competitions, and getting to the challenge cup final.”

There’s also a personal element in theleague race, with Derek’s brother Darren playing for second-place Alloa.

“When Alloa beat us in the league, Darren was saying they were coming after us and it wouldn’t be long before they were ahead of us. He’s been eating his words, slowly!”