Published: Wednesday, 1st July, 2009 3:05pm

Wasps are buzzing for new season

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ALLOA Athletic are back in training ahead of the new season as the squad, with its new additions, prepare to make an impact on the Second Division.

For the past two seasons the Wasps have been leaking too many goals, so gaffer Allan Maitland moved early in the close season to sign experienced defender Scott Walker.

The former Dunfermline player plied his trade with Ayr United last season - the 'Honest Men" secured promotion to the First Division via the play-offs - and his addition is seen as key to shoring up the Wasps" defence.

Maitland also signed 23-year-old goalkeeper David Crawford from Queen"s Park, after the departure of Ray Jellema at the end of last season. Crawford played 130 games for the Spiders and the young stopper was named the sponsors 'Man of the Match" during Queen"s 1-0 victory over the Wasps at Hampden last September.

Striker Stuart Noble returns to Recreation Park for the new season. The former Airdrie hitman spent part of the last campaign on loan at the club, scoring four goals in 14 appearances. Maitland hopes he can play a big part in the development of teenage striking sensation Greig Spence, who finished last season on such a high.

Midfielder Scott Agnew has also been tied up, the former Wasps favourite returns to the club on loan. Maitland told the club"s website, 'We have a wonderful club and I want everyone involved to feel they"re part of a force moving in the right direction.'

The squad has been training this week ahead of their first game of the pre-season at home to Albion Rovers on Saturday. There will be no admittance to either sets of fans, though, as the fixture is being played behind closed doors.

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Next up for the team is a trip to Oban to compete in the Keyline Cup Tournament on Saturday 11 July against Hearts, Hamilton, newly promoted St Johnstone and local outfit Oban Saints.

Alloa will continue on their travels during the early part of the new season with three away games in their opening four league fixtures. The Wasps will head to newly promoted Dumbarton for their Second Division opener on Saurday 8 August before welcoming Peterhead to the Recs the following weekend.

Meanwhile, Alloa Athletic have released a design picture of the new away strip for season 2009-10. Check out the new top by visiting www.alloaathletic.co.uk/news.aspx