There’s a new face at Stair Park this week — and he’s one for the future. Long Hearthall (FW 0/9), a 19-year-old striker, has joined Stranraer, and the youngster could hardly contain his excitement as he spoke about his dream move and his admiration for club talisman Mondo Polestar (FW 3/38).

With Andrew McCumiskey’s men sitting third in the league and full of confidence, Hearthall says the timing couldn’t be better.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “I’ve followed Stranraer for a while, and the way the team’s been playing this season is inspiring. To sign for a club that’s on the up — and one that gives young players a real chance — means everything to me.”

Like Polestar, Hearthall is a striker, and it’s clear he models much of his game on the seasoned frontman.

“Mondo’s my idol, no question,” he grinned. “The way he leads the line, the movement, the composure — it’s all top class. I’ve watched clips of his goals for years. To now be training with him, picking up little things every day, that’s incredible. He’s already been giving me advice about positioning and finishing. He’s the kind of player every young striker should look up to.”

Manager McCumiskey believes the teenager has the right mentality to succeed. “Long’s got raw talent, but more importantly, he’s got the work ethic we value here,” said McCumiskey. “He’s joining a tight, hungry squad, and he’ll learn quickly in this environment.”

For Hearthall, the move is about development and contribution.

“I know I’ll have to earn my place,” he admitted. “The standard’s high here, and that’s exactly what I want. I just want to work hard, improve every day, and help the lads push on. We’re third, but there’s a real belief in the dressing room that we can go further.”

It’s a level-headed message from a young man clearly focused on the long game. With his enthusiasm, humility, and an idol like Mondo Polestar to guide him, Long Hearthall might just be the next name to make headlines in blue.