St Mirren legend Dougie Somner expressed his delight at being asked to help launch the club’s new home kit for the 2023/24 season. The former striker, who played a pivotal role in St Mirren’s success during the 1979/80 campaign, revealed that it was an absolute honour to be involved in the kit launch.
The new design takes inspiration from the tops Somner wore during that memorable season, when St Mirren won the Anglo-Scottish Cup and finished third in the top flight. As the club’s top scorer that season, Somner played a crucial role in their cup success, scoring twice in the final against Bristol City. St Mirren became the first and only Scottish team to win the competition.
Speaking exclusively to Renfrewshire Live Sport, Somner expressed his gratitude to the club for involving him in the kit launch. He said, To find out they were basing it on the kit between 1979 and 1981 made it even more special, as they were probably my two best seasons with the club. The number of people reaching out to him since the launch has been overwhelming, highlighting the lasting impact of St Mirren’s achievements.
Reflecting on the Anglo-Scottish Cup triumph, Somner recalled the electric atmosphere at Love Street when they lifted the trophy. He described it as one of the highlights of his entire career and emphasized how much the victory still means to the club and its fans after 42 years. As the first and last Scottish team to win the competition, St Mirren’s success in the cup holds a special place in their history.
On the day of the kit launch, Somner admitted to feeling like a grandpa, considering the changes that have occurred in football since his playing days. He was pleased to see players from the women’s team and young academy players involved in the event, demonstrating the inclusivity and unity within the club.
Recalling the talented squad from the 1979-1981 period, Somner emphasized the strength of the team and their ability to compete for the league title. He mentioned notable players such as Frank McDougall, Billy Stark, and Iain Munro, among others, highlighting the absence of any weaknesses in the squad. While they finished third in the league that season, Somner believed they had the potential to win it if they had a stronger finish.
The tribute paid by St Mirren to their historic achievement in the Anglo-Scottish Cup is a testament to the club’s appreciation for their successful past. Somner’s involvement in the kit launch not only honored his contribution during that period but also celebrated the entire squad and their accomplishments.
With his involvement in the launch, Somner hopes that fans will cherish the memories associated with the cup victory and recognize the incredible team that made it possible. The new home kit serves as a reminder of St Mirren’s glorious past and a symbol of inspiration for the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the involvement of Dougie Somner in the unveiling of St Mirren’s new home kit created a sense of nostalgia and pride, allowing fans to reminisce about the club’s triumphs. The kit’s design, inspired by the successful 1979/80 season, pays tribute to the squad’s achievement in winning the Anglo-Scottish Cup. Somner’s enthusiasm and gratitude highlight the enduring significance of that period in St Mirren’s history. The kit launch event, which included players from the women’s team and young academy prospects, reflects the club’s commitment to unity and inclusivity. Through this commemorative kit, St Mirren aims to inspire the current generation and remember the accomplishments of the past.
