Opinions are made on players, fair or not, and on match days for the reserves/u 19's this is no different, the expectation even at this level is very real. However the match day experience is a lot different to that of watching the first team. There may even be a case that watching the u 19's and to an extent the reserves is a whole lot more enjoyable than watching the First team, I can certainly understand that view, after all the pressure of the Title chase of the first team can certainly mask any First team match day. Watching the progress of the younger players is a highly satisfying experience, there are certainly a few to keep an eye on as well. The u19's had enjoyed an incredible amount of success in the last two years completing a back to back double success with the fruits of which now hovering on the brink of the first team. Loy and lately Fleck have broken through but the likely hood of more to come is very high.
From the ridiculous to the hilarious I've witnessed some classic moments following the second string and Rangers youths, getting to know some real characters along the way. At a reserve Old Firm match this season I witnessed one of the best ever comments from a supporter in the stands, one which brings a smile to my face whenever I think about it. As the opposing First Team Coach, who had been front page news in recent weeks, yes that one, took to the touchline and shouted to one young opposing player 'Stay on your feet furfuxsake' the shout from the stands was instant 'You can f@cking talk Lennon' and it was one which had the whole support in hilarity, it was a real comedy gold moment. A few years back during an u19's Old Firm which ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Murray Park the 'opposition players' celebrated one goal by 'cheering', actually it sounded more like a group of farm animals being herded into a field - on the young Gers equalising, one member of the home support retaliated making the same mocking 'noises' back. Again it really was a very funny moment. It's not all laughs and jokes however, it's all taken very seriously and at times it can be heated indeed, those present at the Hibernian training ground for the u19's game this season will testify to that.
There is a hard core support for the youngsters at Murray Park who 'follow follow' where ever match day takes them and this is something I admire greatly. I do not consider myself to be part of this group but attend as many as I can. Yet whenever I do, I am greeted with a warm welcome. The camaraderie at Murray Park on match day is certainly something to be witnessed and experienced. I've also found that people, often complete strangers, will go out of their way to help with anything you need, from team sheets to providing lifts to games, all for the love of all things Rangers.
For those who have not had the experience of a trip to Murray Park or even an away venue to watch the youngsters then I encourage them to do so, you will most certainly be welcomed along as part of the Rangers Family.
* Some will recognise the story's above are about our late friend Garry Lynch, aka Remember The Wink, aka Gadger. Garry was a legend at Murray Park, ever present for everything Rangers and someone who had a terrific sense of humour as the story's above represent. Garry introduced himself early on too me at Murray Park and remained a friend ever since. Before I finished this article I pm'd Garry for advice on the article and he replied by saying 'Stevie, go to the top of the class with that wee story, sums it up very well'. Garry will be sorely missed and was a major part of the Camaraderie at Murray Park. He now has the best seat in the house to watch the Rangers, Garry the reason Murray Park is so enjoyable was largely down to you mate - ''Lets raise a glass to absent Friends, For every road must end, You'll always be here, in our hearts, Our absent Special Friend."