Crossing the border: Martin Scott joins Berwick Rangers from Lowland League rivals Gala
Last updated 28th Sep 2026
Martin Scott has been appointed manager of Berwick Rangers — just 90 minutes after Lowland League (East) rivals Gala Fairydean Rovers announced his departure.
The 40-year-old former Ross County player is joined at Shielfield Park by his assistant coach Ross Aitchison.
He replaces Kevin Haynes, and his coaching team, who departed the club earlier this month following a disappointing run of results.
The former Ross County player - perhaps best known for his goal which knocked Celtic out the Scottish Cup in April 2010 - led Gala to victory in the East of Scotland Cup in March 2023.
It was the club's first trophy since Fairydean and Rovers merged a decade earlier.
But, despite earning a draw away to League One side Alloa in the Scottish Challenge Cup in his last game in charge on Saturday, Scott had lost eight of the opening nine league games this season - and leaves Netherdale with his former club joint bottom of the table, just two points behind his new side.
Following his appointment, Martin - whose first game in charge will be the Scottish Cup tie at Cowdenbeath on Saturday - said: "I’m absolutely delighted to join Berwick Rangers Football Club as First Team Manager.
"It’s a fantastic opportunity, and this a club with so much potential. I’m excited to see what we can achieve together."
Meanwhile, former boss Steven Noble returns to the dugout to take interim charge of Gala ahead of the club’s Scottish Cup fixture at home to Largs this weekend.
He’s being supported by experienced players Danny Galbraith and Keaghan Jacobs.
In a statement earlier this evening, the club said: "Gala Fairydean Rovers can confirm that manager Martin Scott and assistant manager Ross Aitchison have departed the club to pursue a new opportunity.
"We thank Martin and Ross for their hard work and dedication during their time at Netherdale and wish them both the very best for the future."
It added: "We are delighted to welcome back Steven Noble, who will step in as interim manager, alongside Danny Galbraith and Keaghan Jacobs as first team coaches, with immediate effect as we prepare for upcoming fixtures."
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Berwick captain Jamie Pyper and vice captain Calum Antell had been put in interim charge, alongside coach Banji Koya for the past two games – recording an impressive 3-2 win away to Stranraer in the Scottish Challenge Cup before losing 7-1 at home to Airdrie.
And the club has thanked them for their efforts.
Martin - also known as Jimmy - joins Berwick having managed Gala since 2022. He's not the first manager to make the cross border switch though - Hearts legend Jim Jefferies managed Gala Fairydean from 1983 until September 1988, before taking over as Berwick Rangers manager in September 1988.
Berwick's statement added: “In our discussions over the position, Martin impressed immensely with his attention to detail, vision and clear articulation of the club identity and team culture he will look to build.
“Martin’s passion for developing players combines with a coherent tactical philosophy both in possession and off the ball, and makes us excited for the future of Berwick Rangers.”
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