JOHNSTONE Burgh under-21s have enjoyed substantial success since starting out as St Mirren Boys Club in 1999.

However, the future of the side is looking even brighter with the news that they are to enjoy closer ties with the junior side.

With Joe Beith at the helm, former Burgh star John Sherry has come on board as coach whilst Tom McCormick continues to play a vital role as secretary.

Sherry insists it is an exciting time for the club and all those who play a part in it.

He told Gazette Sport: “From the juniors all the way through into the youth sections it seems like there has been a breath of fresh air.

“Over the years that I have been involved with the Burgh I don’t think there has been this close a relationship between the juniors and the sides below them which is a shame as there are some cracking players at this level.

“It is a new era for the club and it is a relationship we are looking to build upon and have the same benefits for both sides.” Between 2010 and 2012 the side picked up back-to-back titles in the West of Scotland Leagues as well as reaching two Scottish Cup finals since turning to 11-a-sides.

The side has also managed to breed talent for the junior Burgh with centre back Dale Sloan making the step up to Colin Smith and David Brolly’s side during the summer. Sherry highlights the impact that the under-21s could have on the side currently playing in the Central League Second.

He added: “Both teams are looking to work together so if we have a player that we feel is ready then we will let Colin and David know and they can have a look at them “It works the other way around where if they feel someone may not be ready for the juniors then they can come down and train with us.

“We want to highlight this progression is there and show that if a player works hard enough then they make that step up — beforehand there wasn’t such a progression and players very rarely made that move but that’s something we hope to cement.” Sherry insisted hopes are high for his first season as a coach since retiring during the summer. With the season now under way he admitted he is loving life on the touchline: “The team enjoyed a good season last year and we are looking to build upon that.

“We are hoping to challenge at the top end of the table and are looking good.

“I am like a kid again when it comes to match days and I look forward to every game.” The side picked up their first win of the season on Saturday with goals from Alex Beattie and Dale McCormack handing them a 2-1 win over Campsie Black Watch.

If you are interested in joining Johnstone Burgh under-21s, call John Sherry on 07707333233.