Morton 4
Clydebank 0
Friendly

Match Report

With the dust barely settled on their inaugural league campaign, Clydebank moved quickly to reshape their squad for the 1967–68 season. No fewer than five new signings were secured in the weeks following the season's end, signalling the Steedman brothers’ intent to build a side capable of challenging for promotion.

The first wave of signings included a trio of proven forwards: left winger Arthur Paterson and centre forward Eddie Moore, both top scorers during Ayr United’s promotion-winning campaign, and the versatile James Fleming, signed from Stirling Albion. Fleming, who previously turned out for the Bankies as a junior, had been Albion’s leading marksman in their own promotion season and was also prolific during their overseas tour. Able to play across the forward line, he promises to be a valuable asset.

The Bankies also bolstered their defence with the capture of right back John Boyd from Morton. Boyd, part of the Cappielow side’s promotion push, had attracted interest from both Dundee United and Partick Thistle before opting for a return to the west with Clydebank. A vocal and committed presence on the pitch, Boyd brings much-needed steel to the rearguard.

The fifth addition was announced shortly after — powerful wing half Stan King from Stranraer. Well remembered by fans for his strong showing against the Bankies last season, King adds experience and energy to the midfield. His signing brought the total number of players on the books to 11, with the club continuing to scout both senior and junior ranks for further reinforcements.

These new recruits were given an early run-out in an end-of-season friendly against Morton at Cappielow on 27 May. On paper, the fixture appeared curious — a newly promoted First Division side taking on a Second Division outfit still in transition — but it offered a valuable first look at the Bankies' revamped line-up.

Unfortunately, the match proved something of a reality check. Morton ran out comfortable 4–0 winners in a match that, while billed as a friendly, was fiercely contested. Clydebank began brightly and looked threatening in the opening exchanges, but the early promise quickly faded.

A penalty converted by Bartram on 25 minutes set Morton on their way, and the same player added a second before the break. Mason and Stevenson completed the scoring in the second half, as the home side’s experience and cohesion told.

Clydebank suffered a further blow when Tommy McGhee had to be carried off injured. Jim Fleming replaced him, but the disruption did little to stem the flow of the game.

Though the result was disappointing, the friendly served its purpose — exposing flaws and giving management a better sense of where improvements are needed. With more signings expected, and the summer months ahead to gel as a team, the Bankies still have time to sharpen their challenge for the coming season.

Match report written by Stuart McBay