From the stands to the pitch!

QUEEN of the South defender Niall Rogerson admitted it’s a dream come true to represent his local side.

The Dumfries-born centre back used to watch his Queens heroes in the stand with his papa.

But now the 19-year-old is showcasing his talent on the pitch in his breakthrough year.

Rogerson said: “It’s great because when I was younger I used to have a season ticket and come here to watch the team.

“I used to come to the games with my papa all the time.

“To actually play on the park I used to watch and seeing all the fans in the stands cheering us on – including my dad – is great.

“I’ve always watched in the stands back in the day so it is a quite surreal experience.”

Rogerson had to be subbed on for the injury-struck Taylor Charters during the first half of Queens’ impressive 3-0 victory over East Fife last Saturday.

The towering teenage defender was drafted into an unfamiliar right-back role but he didn’t put a foot wrong throughout. Rogerson also featured in Queens’ 3-1 Challenge Cup win over Motherwell B in the same position.

He added: “Right back is not my natural position but I’ve had to come on there before against Hamilton. I’ll play anywhere to help the boys and the team out.

“I’ve not played a lot in the league so to come on early doors and play nearly a full game, I’m happy with that.

“It is tiring running up and down the right hand side when I’m used to staying in my position at centre back.

“Playing in a different position means I need to be able to switch on and give instructions to people. You need to be focused to cover others and stop crosses.

“The times I’ve played this season, I’ve thought I’ve done well. I need to keep going and continue my progression.

“It always helps playing alongside experienced players like Matty Douglas. He is always talking to me and telling me what to do.

“It’s good knowing I’ve got somebody beside me who knows the game well.”

And gaffer Peter Murphy has been pleased with how Rogerson is developing.

He added: “Niall came on at right back where he hasn’t really played. I’m delighted for him because the last game he played, he was man of the match for me in that.

“He will grow in confidence by getting these chances.”

And more local players got their chance on Tuesday night against the Well kids.

Winger Billy Gray was impressive after coming on at half time, whilst it was professional debuts for 17-year-old Kylan Hunter and 16-year old Ben Morton. Morton is believed to be Queens’ youngest ever player.