 During the 2002–03 campaign, Stirling made 14 appearances in all competitions before leaving the club in January 2003.Stirling joined Conference South club St Albans City on loan, debuting in the 1–0 Isthmian League Premier Division victory over Harrow Borough on 18 January 2003 and going on to play a further three times for the club, twice in the league, during his month with the club.He then linked up with Boreham Wood on loan for the remainder of the season, debuting in the 1–0 Isthmian League Premier Division defeat at Aldershot Town on 1 February 2003.