COWDENBEATH striker Iain Russell called time on his career as a pro after the club’s last league game with Albion Rovers and he was delighted to get the chance to sign-off with a goal.

He came on as a late sub for the Blue Brazil, with the team one up, and with just seconds to go he made a fine run down the left and cut inside and was hauled down in the Rovers’ box.

There was only going to be one guy to take the spot-kick and he tucked the ball wide of ‘keeper Chris Henry, which saw amazing celebrations from his team mates.

Russell came through the youth teams at Annan Athletic and Rangers before making a few appearances for Motherwell. Since leaving the ‘Well, Russell has also played for Brechin City, Greenock Morton, Alloa Athletic and Stirling Albion (both loan spells), Livingston, Queen of the South and Airdrieonians, before joining Cowden on loan in the autumn from Pollock Juniors.

The 38 year-old was a vital addition after manager Gary Bollan lost attackers David Cox and Cian Kavanagh during the season for different reasons, leaving only Kris Renton and young loanee Olly Hamilton as striker options.

His time with Cowden saw him grab the 200th league goal of his career against Brechin City in December.

Iain enjoyed his spell at Central Park but felt the time is right to hang up his pro boots: “What a really grand set of lads at Cowdenbeath, a tremendous dressing room. which I was delighted to be part of.

“It was unbelievable to finish with a goal and the lads were happy for me to take the spot-kick and their celebration was superb. It has been amazing to be able to play as a pro for so long.”

Gary Bollan said it was a fitting end to the career of a player he managed at several clubs: “Iain is a great lad to have in your set-up, he is a hard worker and a good finisher.

“I was so pleased for him when he won the penalty and tucked the spot-kick away and the boys gave him a fitting finish.”