Rowley: Cash being splashed not sustainable
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CHARLIE Rowley fears Highland League football has become more about the next big pay day rather than winning trophies and medals.
The Forres Mechanics manager transfer-listed defender Craig McGovern and were on the brink of selling midfielder Alan Pollock to Rothes after both players rejected new deals with the Mosset Park club.
Rowley believes the amount of money currently available in north football is unsustainable, and is urging clubs to be sensible instead of lumping large sums out to tempt players with offers beyond their means.
He said both Pollock and McGovern rejected good contract offers to stay at Forres, instead being lured by “incredible” deals being offered by rival teams.
“All the money being thrown about is just turning people’s heads,” he said. “As much as you thought you could trust in the loyal individuals you have at the club, that seems not to be the case now.
“In Craig’s case, we made him a really good offer but it’s not enough for him. He could go to a team in the bottom half of the league and leave a team that arguably could have been top of the league on Saturday. That tells its own story.
“The aspirations of trying to be successful nowadays is secondary. I’m not tarring every individual with the same brush but with many of them, the only interest is the cash side of things.”
Over the years, Mechanics have gained a solid reputation for looking after their players. Many have given long service to the Mosset Park side and been rewarded with testimonial matches.
Rowley believes players’ loyalty is now being tested by the lure of big cash available at other clubs.
“It’s a disgrace really, and I don’t blame the players. Surely the onus is on the clubs to tighten things up and this desperation for success has had its knock-on effect and all the players are trying to jump on that bandwagon. They’re thinking ‘If it’s there I’m going to get it’. But it’s not sustainable.
“We will move on. The club will be there long after all of us and it will be thriving as well.”
McGovern is currently injured with a knee ligament strain and missed Mechanics’ 2-1 defeat at Inverurie Locos on Saturday.
Despite a goal by Andy Macrae they missed out on the chance to draw level with leaders Cove Rangers by taking full points at Harlaw Park.
This weekend Mechanics are at home to improving Strathspey Thistle
