SUFC 3rd Team Match Reports

Robert Gordon 2's 1 Stirling 1

2012-01-29T18:07:00.000-08:00

Stirling managed to take a draw back from Aberdeen which has always been a difficult place to go, having never won in the Granite City under Tommy Craig’s tutelage. With exams causing this game to be postponed in December, Stirling had to wait to try and avenge their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Edinburgh 4’s. Knocking the students down a peg after a 100% start to league business, it reminded the table toppers that they were not promoted already and still have to earn their place in the league above.

Stirling welcomed Will Barker, Stevie Clark and Kevin Hughes into the starting 11 as they looked to take a result which would keep them firmly in the 4A driving seat. The performance on display deserved more than just a point and had it not been for some abject refereeing, the scoreline could have been a whole lot different.

Instead of the usual picture selection,
I thought we could enjoy Connor's
snaps he felt Facebook would enjoy.

Playing into a strong wind in the first half, Stirling were controlling the game with Barker and Michael Tuohy in the centre of the park always available and switching flanks time and again. Both fullbacks, Ryan McCue and Graeme Crawford, were seeing a lot of the ball but couldn’t quite find the correct ball to trouble the Aberdeen defence; Crawford particularly guilty of trying the difficult pass when the better option was to find feet.

Stirling created two quick chances to take the lead midway through the first period. After neat built build up play down the right, Clark’s pass got Crawford to the by-line but his cross was blocked by the covering defender. Minutes later a pinpoint through ball released Hughes in behind but the number 9 was ruled offside despite being in his own half and behind a Robert Gordon defender.

This was a sign of thing to come from a referee who seems to aspire to the Willie Collum style of refereeing, i.e. extremely biased. Stirling continued to battle on however with RGU failing to threaten the centre half pairing of Tom Flanagan and Stevie Boyle. The skipper playing in one of his many positions was rarely troubled as he and his Mancunian colleague steadied the ship.

In fact with such a strong wind Stirling did well to limit the home side to one long range effort which Kieran McCulloch got down smartly to block and gather at the second attempt. The half time whistle arrived with only a chance for Crawford any other point of note in the first period. Tuohy’s whipped free-kick arrived at Crawford on the stretch and the goalkeeper managed to strike the ball off the fullback and the ball rebounded over the bar from 3 yards.

Stirling came out from the break content at their endeavour in the first half and looked to sustain the pressure of the first half and improve their quality in the final third. With their two central midfielders dominating, the away team were retaining the ball superbly and were forcing their opponents to sit deep in their own half for the majority of the game; this further by a formation change to 4-4-1-1 by the home team.

Love ma babes.

They were to get their reward for their efforts around the sixty minute mark. Hughes and strike partner Mikey MacDougall were combining well and this reaped benefits with the opening goal. Hughes’ flick on from a long goal kick released MacDougall and he remained calm to toe poke past the on-rushing goalkeeper. Having struggled for goals, MacDougall’s work ethic is finally being rewarded in the goal scoring stakes.

This sparked the beginning of a downward turn in the away side’s fortune however. Hughes received the ball into feet and adeptly knocked the ball past his marker inside the box. His legs were crudely taken away but the referee saw fit to play on but Hughes was not booked; you can draw your own conclusions from the lack of a card being dished out.

Minutes later Barker was fouled in the centre of the field but the man in the middle played on and RGU gained a free kick of their own. The long ball forward held up in the wind and the ball was controlled by the home sides forward. After a miscued shot from the left the ball was scrambled home from 6 yards to bring the sides level.

Stirling were trying their best to fight the injustice they were feeling as even the home sides players were find the decisions laughable. Corner, free-kick and throw-ins were continually awarded against the travelling side, decisions which weren’t even debatable.

However Stirling remained the most potent side and had their chances to sneak a result from right under the referee’s nose. Barker had a long range strike which flew a yard wide of the top corner with the goalkeeper looking on nervously.

Stirling’s top scorer last season nearly grabbed the winner after bursting from midfield to arrive in the area. His touch and shot across the keeper was blocked superbly with the keeper’s trailing hand as it looked like being one of those days.

The away side had one final chance to get the extra two points they deserved. Crawford found Hughes inside the right-hand side of the area to which the striker took one touch away from his defender and struck early with his left foot. The ball was curling into the bottom corner but the goalkeeper managed to tip the ball round the post in what was a terrific save by the Robert Gordon number 1.

Stirling can be satisfied with the performance they put in after more than a month without any training or games. The point keeps them top of the league and promotion in their own hands, which they have got to capitalise on. Circumstances prevented all three points going Stirling’s way but a draw isn’t the worst result to take away from Aberdeenshire.

Stirling: McCulloch, Crawford, Flanagan, Boyle, McCue, Clark, Barker, Tuohy (Bailey), Quinn, MacDougall, Hughes Subs: Wells, Gillespie

Stirling 4 Milton 1

2011-11-15T05:29:00.000-08:00

After a less than impressive start to life in Division 1, Stirling seem to be finding their feet in the Saturday league once again with an important win against Milton. Playing on the Astroturf could have proved difficult but Stirling took advantage to play some flowing football that in the end deserved the win.

Last season's skipper returned

Stirling came up against tough opposition in Milton, a team who were sitting second in the table before the match. Stirling were caused problems by a side that did not resemble a typical district league side i.e. they tried to play some football without resorting to being over physical.

Stirling welcomed back into the side Ross Chapman, Jonathan Cooper and skipper Stevie Boyle and their influence relaxed a side who had been shaky at times on a Saturday.

The first half was a frenetic affair with both teams having chances and playing some eye-catching football. Playing against an unfamiliar, narrow formation employed by their opponents, Stirling coped well and moved the ball from side to side which unnerved their opponents. This was prove by two substitutions in the first half hour along with a change of formation.

Ryan Quinn was particularly involved early on and made a couple of inviting runs which couldn't quite be converted into chances. However he was to get his reward with a stunning strike to give the students the lead. An incisive ball from Owen Smith, who performed admirably in an alien left back position, reached Quinn 25 yards out. A superb curling effort got up and over the keeper into the far corner to unleash the lizard’s tongue for the second time this season.

Don't know what this picture is, but
unlucky not to keep a clean sheet

Stirling were to face some pressure on the own goal though throughout the first half. From two corners in near succession, Milton hit the inside of the post and the top of the bar which was the piece of luck Stirling had been missing in recent Saturday games this season.

Stirling had another let off as a superb curling shot left Chapman beaten but the ball struck the post and came back out. The waiting Milton striker tapped the ball home, but a tremendous decision by the referee ruled the number ten offside and Stirling were off the hook once again.

They could have made it two before had Graeme Crawford been more clinical. A short corner gave Smith the ball and his whipped cross found Crawford four yards out. However his header cracked the bar and rebounded back out, a chance which left Crawford injured after being clattered by the defender. Half-time arrived with the game still hanging in the balance.

Awww

Stirling began the second half in vibrant fashion, showing renewed vigour as Cooper and Ryan Mahoney began to dominate the two strikers; allowing Stirling to build from the back. They were to double their advantage with fresher Michael Tuohy getting his third goal of the season. Crawford found Tuohy in the centre of the park and, after losing then regaining possession, played a delightful reverse ball in behind the defence to Quinn. The winger drove into the box and cut the ball back to the supporting Tuohy, who swept home in a superb move which deserved its outcome.

Almost immediately however Stirling lost their two goal cushion. Failing to clear a long throw allowed a strike at goal and the unfortunate Tuohy’s block went past the helpless Chapman to give the Milton players hope. Stirling didn't collapse though and pushed forward again towards a defence that was uncomfortable with the pressure applied by ever-willing strike force of Mikey MacDougall and Matty McLachlan.

A third goal arrived from Crawford to settle nerves again when they could have folded. A superb whipped ball to the front post by Smith was met by Crawford and the goalkeeper couldn't keep it out despite getting a strong hand to it.

With confidence back through the side, Stirling managed to get a fourth ten minutes later. Great industry in the middle of the park by Jamie McLean, continuing his good form, led to Quinn being slipped through. Taking the ball on the bounce he lifted it over the keeper as Stirling threatened to run away with the game.

Chapman still had to be alert in goal and he pulled off two smart stops as Milton reminded the students they weren’t out of the game yet. The moment of the match arrived with the two centre half’s and goalkeeper indulging in some impromptu showboating.

Good brace for the lizard

A long ball was going over Cooper’s head but was cut out with a back heel on the stretch which found Mahoney. Two keepy-ups later Chapman was on the ball and after a cheeky touch and knee, he shelled the ball out of the park with Stirling in buoyant mood.

Stirling sat back content with their three goal cushion but invited pressure which could have gone against them. They managed to get their two banks of four sorted and had a couple of half chances before the end of the game, most noticeably a strike from Boyle which was spilled by the goalkeeper.

Stirling came through this tough test which will stand them in good stead for up-coming games. Glasgow University 2^nd’s away is the task facing the team on Wednesday, a game which could put the opposition out of sight in the promotion race. A result like this can only be beneficial for the confidence of the side.

John Ingles/Ref’s Man of the Match: Graeme Crawford

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Smith, McLean, Boyle, Tuohy (MacDonald), Quinn, McLachlan (McCall), MacDougall Subs: Wells, Gillespie

Stirling 2 Aberdeen 2’s 0

2011-11-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

After a disappointing defeat on Saturday, Stirling had the chance to right those wrongs against Aberdeen University’s 2^nd team. Having taken 6 points from 6, this win put them back top of the league and in superb position to gain the promotion which has eluded them for the last few years.

Stirling were comfortable throughout this game against a team which were significantly weaker than the standard they have been used to in league 4A. The away side failed to create a significant threat at any point throughout the game and Stirling could, and should have scored far more than the just two.

Unfortunate just to score 1

The home side dominated from the off and kept the ball successfully while trying to suss out the opposition. Stirling’s strike force of John McCallum and Michael MacDougall formed a great partnership and were providing great movement up front.

McCallum was given Stirling’s first chance of the game after MacDougall whipped an inviting cross in from the left. With the centre half misjudging the flight of the ball, McCallum had a free header which he could only direct wide of the far post. He had the chance to open the scoring not long after, when released through on goal, but a slightly heavy touch allowed the keeper to smother.

Stirling were maintaining their pressure well due to unyielding defence, Connor Wells in particular dominating the aerial battle with Aberdeen’s front two. They were to be rewarded when McCallum managed to get on the score sheet. A long ball from well was flicked on brilliantly by MacDougall and left his strike partner one v one with the keeper. Knocking it past the onrushing number 1, McCallum slotted home to give a deserved lead to the home side.

Stirling continued to dominate with returning keeper Ross Harkness left with very little to do throughout the match. The 45 minutes was reached with Aberdeen under constant pressure and chasing shadows against a much superior side.

Not camp at all...

Stirling came out to a shaky start in the second half as they gave possession away cheaply. However a stubborn defence repelled any threat Aberdeen brought their way, and they began to settle once again after ten minutes. The central midfield pairing of Michael Tuohy and Owen smith were always on the lookout for the ball and were feeding the strike force superbly. On another day the Aberdeenshire side could have been going home on the back of a hammering; with Ryan Quinn and Jamie McLean on either flank providing a constant threat with their direct running.

The Aberdeen number 14 was not endearing himself to the home side or his teammates in fact, with repeated outburst against anyone within earshot. He was lucky to stay on the park after trying to catch Ryan McCue late and, when unsuccessful, aiming an elbow in Quinn’s direction. Both were booked in the aftermath of the elbow, as was full-back Graeme Crawford for a retaliatory kick in less than athletic ‘player’s direction.

It's only fair a poor photo of me goes up too

Stirling couldn't quite find the finish to substantiate the scoreline and it wasn't until the final five minutes they added some gloss to the scoreline. Substitute Ryan Lynch found the on-coming Crawford in the centre of the park and he continued his run. His on target shot clipped the back of the defender and looped over the unfortunate keeper.

A comfortable win for the Stirling side which could have looked a lot more secure had they finished their chances but it keeps the 100% record in the Wednesday league going and puts them in pole position for the step up league 3A at the end of the season.

Man of the Match: Michael Tuohy

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Wells, Gillespie, McCue, McLean (Lynch), Smith, Tuohy, Quinn (MacDonald), MacDougall (Gemmell), McCallum Subs: McCulloch, Reid

P.s. It’s definitely my goal!

Musselburgh 0 Stirling 4

2011-10-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Depleted squad move into the next round

Stirling moved into the next round of the East of Scotland cup with a comfortable win by the seaside. Playing a team that had given Stirling’s second team a tough game two weeks previous, Stirling were braced for a defensive performance against a so-called ‘superior’ team. However Stirling showed their class to run out comfortable winners even though they had only 11 players available and Coach Tommy Craig being forced to

make an appearance in the final 15 minutes.

On a blustery afternoon Stirling, once again, arrived with little time for a warm up but showed no signs of a slow start as they held possession well early on. The first chance came from a quick gamble by Matty McLachlan to leave him through on the keeper. Fortunately for the home defence the striker snatched his shot across goal.

Stirling continued the pressure with their opponent’s content to fire long balls towards the commanding centre half pairing of the chirpy Ryan Mahoney and Fraser Gillespie. The duo dealt easily with the threat, Mahoney even throwing some tricks in against the attacking players. Right back Graeme Crawford almost set up a goal but the ball was blocked when cut back from the by-line.

What the...

They were rewarded for their dominance with the opening goal as Connor Wells doubled his tally for the season. Enterprising play by Owen Smith to keep the ball in allowed Ryan McCue to get to the by-line. Showing no signs of last week’s knockout punch, the curly haired full-back found Wells unmarked and he powered the header past the ‘keeper.

The remainder of the half was scrappy as Stirling’s tempo began to drop and they were giving away easy possession to their opponents. Musselburgh couldn’t make anything of this drop in form though, threatening only through their striker ‘Chico’ but Stirling defended well against the greedy forward. McLachlan and Smith had a couple of half chances but were unable to take them; a sign of things to come for McLachlan.

Stirling came out for the second half confident and, after a slight spell of Musselburgh possession which still failed to test Fraser Meechan with a shot at goal, Stirling doubled their lead and ended the game as a contest.

'Model'

Smith managed to get his first two goals for the club which crushed the home side’s hope of a comeback. Picking the ball up down the left, Smith got past his defender, who had just came on, in the corner before jinking inside past another defender. His shot had too much power for the goalkeeper and he could only palm into the net.

He took the score to three only a couple of minutes later as a ball in from fresher Richard MacDonald down the right was cleared by the unfortunate fullback straight to Smith at the edge of the area and he drilled a sweet strike into the bottom corner to end the Musselburgh challenge.

Stirling were sitting back and with the home side running out of ideas, they took their foot off the pedal and began to lose sloppy possession. They did manage to add to their lead however as McLachlan got on the score sheet. MacDonald played a neat ball in behind the defender and McLaughlin rifled a shot past the stationary keeper although this was not the main moment of his match.

This arrived with twenty minutes left as miss of the season grabbed hold of an early contender. Superb play from Jamie MacLean through the middle, which was a feature of the game, beating two men neatly and getting to the by-line set up the chance. His dinked cross left McLachlan two yards out and he managed to blaze over on the bounce ruining his good performance previously.

On the pull as usual

He conveniently suffered a hamstring injury soon after, which brought about a sight no football fan wants to see. The sight of Craig getting ready to come on at the sideline strikes fear into his own teammates and Stirling immediately when defensive as a four goal comeback seemed a distinct possibility.

In shocking scenes Craig nearly scored, which may have led to Mikey MacDougall going AWOL on a permanent basis. A cut back from Smith after over-running the chance for his hat-trick left the ball 6 yards out. A good connection gave it a chance but the keeper’s legs kept the ball from being burst and all football games being cancelled until further notice.

The game fizzled out to a conclusion and leaves Stirling with a trip to Premier Division league leaders Bluebell in late November. Stirling will take heart from a good win with a depleted squad and bring this into Wednesdays game at home to Heriot Watt 3’s; a cup game they have to win.

Referee’s, and most important, MoM; Graeme Crawford (Although I have no idea why)

Combined decision MoM: Owen Smith

Stirling: Meechan, Crawford, Gillespie, Mahoney, McCue, MacDonald, Wells, MacLean, Lynch, Smith, McLachlan (Craig)

Camelon Albion 0 Stirling 4

2011-10-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

Stirling bounce back to kick start their league campaign

Stirling returned to winning ways, giving a much-needed boost to the squad after 3 straight defeats. The university side put on a brave display in the face of some underhand tactics by their opponents.

Return of a icon.

Stirling made a few changes to the previous week with Ross Chapman, Owen Smith and Mikey MacDougall all returning to starting berths. There was also a return for SUFC icon Chris Betreen who threw on the number 9 shirt one more time.

With the pitch provided by the home side looking more suited to a rugby game, Stirling had to be careful from the off to maintain possession as to not allow any mistakes on the tricky surface.

There were no signs of this though as Stirling pressed early on. Ryan Quinn was heavily involved as he escaped from under the girlfriend's thumb to drive through the heart of Camelon’s midfield time and again. Unfortunately the final ball couldn't quite beat a stubborn Camelon back five.

Undeterred by the student’s fine start, Camelon pinned their opponents back with a barrage of throw-ins and corners which were defended well by the men in white. Chapman pulled off a fine save to keep the scores level, diving across to his left to parry a shot from 18 yards.

Freshers has began his SUFC career well

This sparked Stirling into life and they took the lead with fresher Michael Tuohy getting his second of the season. After a driving run from Smith the ball made its way to Betreen. Unselfishly he spurned the shot a goal to leave Tuohy with an empty net to trickle the ball into. It’s been an impressive start to the fresher’s time in the 3^rd team and, with games, this will surely continue.

The remainder of the half was an even affair with Stirling perhaps on top through their better use of the ball. Betreen was unfortunate not to score as the Camelon number one made a couple of good stops. At the very end of the half he could have doubled the lead but the shot was skewed wide after intricate play down the

right by MacDougall and Graeme Crawford.

The second half was more comfortable occasion for the away team as they doubled their lead early on in the second half. A whipped corner at the front post arrived at Ryan Mahoney’s feet in the box. He fired towards goal through a crowd of bodies and the dubious goals committee has ruled, inexplicably, in his favour as he broke his duck for the season.

Camelon were threatening through their slightly rotund, but pacey, striker and he slipped his strike-partner thorough on goal to give a glimmer of hope to the home side after going two goals down. The ball beat Chapman but went wide of the far post giving Stirling a major let-off. The shaky moments continued as a cross to the front post was misjudged by an off balance Mahoney, and the resultant header was clawed away by a surprised Chapman.

The nature of the game changed on the referee’s decision in the build-up to Stirling’s third goal. Smith caught the ball just before the touchline and the resultant play led to Betreen being in behind the Camelon defence. Typically he remained calm and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to keep his remarkable scoring record for the third team going.

Camelon lost their heads at this point and began to take it out on anyone who wasn't a member of the home side, the referee receiving he majority of the abuse. Every 50/50 became a chance to try and hurt a Stirling player as they couldn't accept their oppositions passing play.

Floored

Ryan McCue was to feel the brunt of the opponent’s frustration as he was struck off the ball in a cowardly act, seen by the home sideline but not punished by removing the player from the park. Returning to the ages of violence on the park is a poor reflection on the state of the game at this level and changes should be made to allow football to be the focus of everyone’s attention.

Stirling added a fourth near the end with the scrappiest goal of the season so far. A corner was returned into the area and, after getting stuck under substitute McLachlan’s feet, was scooped towards goal by Betreen and turned home by Crawford to get to seven for the season.

The game was played out with arguments between the Camelon side and the referee dominating proceedings and Stirling saw the game out to take a much needed three points. The clean sheet was a bonus for a side who have conceded too many goals recently and this will stand them in good stead for next week’s cup tie.

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Gillespie, Mahoney, McCue, Lynch (Rathore), Smith, Tuohy (Wells), Quinn, MacDougall (McLachlan), Betreen

Stirling 8 Edinburgh 4’s 0

2011-10-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

Dominant win over title rivals

Coming off the back of a disappointing defeat at the weekend, Stirling faced a tough test against a team that came down from the league above last year. The home side never gave the visitors a sniff in an over-powering display that sees them sit atop the table with six points out of six.

Stirling wasted no time in taking the lead after the awarded an indirect free kick due to a passback. After encroachment on the first effort, Darren Dalrymple fired home at the near post to give Stirling the perfect start.

Loan move to France paying off

Stirling were spraying the ball around well, rarely putting the ball in the air as Edinburgh struggled to get into the game. The movement from Dalrymple and his strike partner John McCallum was excellent, giving an option at all times for the ball carrier.

Stirling’s two central midfielders, Stevie Boyle and fresher Craig Fergusson, were battling brilliantly against their counterparts, nicking the ball back crucially time and again to set up counter attacks. It was Fergusson who was to double Stirling’s lead with a wonderfully executed chip from the edge of the area, leaving the keeper stranded and Stirling two goals up.

Not satisfied with the lead Stirling continued to press forward against a shell-shocked visiting side and made it three when Ryan Lynch got on the score sheet. A wonderfully crafted ball from Owen Smith was bravely won at the near post by McCallum, giving Lynch the simple task of tapping home with the goalkeeper stranded.

The goal of the game arrived after half an hour as Dalrymple added a second to his collection. After patient possession the ball was switched to Graeme Crawford at right back. Ferguson made an intelligent run in-between the defence and picked up the pass in behind. Whipping the ball across the box first time, Dalrymple was unmarked at the back post and slotted past an increasingly dejected Edinburgh number one.

Quiet day for McCulloch

Kieran McCulloch made his first start of the season in goal but was rarely tested, but for a few wayward shots from distance. Stirling were to make it five before half-time as Crawford scored from the spot after a dubious call by the referee; giving a penalty for shirt tugging which could have went either way.

Determined not to concede and also send a message out to their league 4A opponents, Stirling continued to work hard to maintain their high standard of performance. Goal number six arrived five minutes into the second half as Crawford got his second. A cleared corner was returned out to Ryan McCue and his ball was inch perfect, and Crawford could hardly miss due to the quality of delivery.

With their opponents down and out Stirling made some change with Ian Bailey and Michael Tuohy replacing Smith and Boyle respectively. Tuohy picked up where the skipper had left off, picking up the ball and keeping it efficiently in what was an impressive debut in Stirling green.

Stirling were putting on a fine display and could have added more to their lead if it wasn't for some last second decisions going astray. McCallum got the goal his play deserved as the scoreboard clicked over to seven with half an hour to go. Great play down the left ended with Dalrymple’s square ball finding his strike partner who caressed the ball home with his left foot.

Debut 'goal' for Gemmell

Peter Gemmell was next to make his debut and nearly scored with his first touch as he couldn't quite squeeze a strike away from a tight angle. The only real moment of danger for Stirling arrived when a nice turn inside the area left McCulloch exposed but the striker fired into the side netting.

Stirling’s final goal of the day was debateable to say the least. Great running from Gemmell left him through on goal. After avoiding the defender’s challenge, he rounded the goalkeeper only to be tripped as he looked to finish. The ball was cleared more than a yard from the line but the goal was given; more to save the capital side’s defender from a red card than a genuine error by the referee.

Stirling saw the game out to a close, still pushing forward but unable to add to their massive margin of victory. The final whistle went with a clean sheet intact, which was more than deserved by the central defensive pairing of Fraser Gillespie and Marc Redmond; who formed a solid pairing despite it being their first game together.

The home side more than deserved their win and a few more goals could have rewarded the number of fine performances produced by the men in green. With the capital outfit expected to be Stirling’s main title contenders, a rethink may have to happen as Stirling have a superb chance of achieving promotion that has just eluded them over the past few years.

Man of the match: Darren Dalrymple/John McCallum

Stirling: McCulloch, Crawford, Gillespie, Redmond, McCue, Lynch (Gemmell), Boyle (Tuohy), Fergusson, Smith (Bailey), McCallum, Dalrymple Subs: Chapman, MacDougall

Stirling 3 Glasgow 2's 2

2011-09-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Stirling 3 Glasgow 2’s 2

Old foes downed as Stirling kick off their season

Stirling stole a march on their Glaswegian counterparts by taking the spoils on a baking hot afternoon. Combining this with a pristine playing surface, it was a superb day for football and Stirling took advantage to secure 3 points.

Linked well with MacDougall

The home side got off to a flyer after they were awarded a debateable penalty two minutes in. Good link play between Ian Bailey and Mikey MacDougall left the latter clear in the box. The challenge did come from behind but seemed to get the ball; and with no real claims from the Stirling side it was a surprise to see the spot kick awarded. Graeme Crawford stepped up to send the keeper the wrong way as they snapped up the early bonus.

Stirling were maintaining the ball with the early goal settling any nerves. Ryan Quinn had a glorious chance to net from 12 yards after a cutback, but he blazed over. However they suffered injuries to both their central midfielders within five minutes of each other and had to react accordingly. Connor Wells was first off being replaced by fresher to the team Connor Reid who coped well with being thrown in at the deep end for his first game in the Stirling 3^rd team.

Captain Stevie Boyle was next to break down as a recurrent groin injury hampers his start to the campaign. Fresh from six months in France, John McCallum replaced the bearded skipper and showed his qualities hadn’t disappeared while he had been away.

The changes altered the flow of the play to an extent as Glasgow began have the better of possession. Playing with advanced wingers and one striker was a different option than the home side normally come up against, but they were diligent enough to keep chances down to long range efforts which time and again failed to trouble the Stirling goal.

First appearance for the Polar Bears

Crawford almost gave away Stirling’s advantage when a slack header forced Stephen Donnelly into action, making a fine save down low. Making his first appearance for the Polar Bears, Donnelly, after a shaky start, looked composed and dealt well with the aerial threat the away side possessed.

Coming out from the break Stirling caught their opponents napping once again and doubled their lead. A quick throw down the right released MacDougall who spun his defender well and attacking the front post Bailey got the final touch on the driven cross to put Stirling two ahead.

While Glasgow were having the majority of the ball, Stirling dealt with the runners effectively; the centre half pairing of David Dixon and Graeme Lindsay being particularly strong and didn’t give the striker a sniff at goal all day.

Stirling were to pay for allowing Glasgow too much time and space however as they conceded with twenty five minutes left. After a few near misses, Glasgow made the breakthrough from a corner; although it was clearly the wrong decision after Dixon had shielded the ball out of play. The towering centre half got up at the back post to head home and give Glasgow hope.

Stirling weren’t finished yet however and got a crucial third soon after. The two wide and front-men put a tremendous shift in for the team and in the second half gave the defence a much needed breather.

Man of the Match did everything but score

Lindsay went inches wide with a rocket of a free kick, shaving the outside of the post and almost ending the goal of the season competition early on. Mikey MacDougall in particular was a constant menace to the visiting side and ensured they didn’t get a moments rest. With Bailey in support the two linked well to keep the pressure up on their opponents and it was MacDougall who set up the third.

Great driving play down the left hand side of the box set up his cross which arrived at Ryan Lynch. He had the simple task of knocking home to add back Stirling’s two goal cushion which disappeared almost as quickly as it arrived.

Ethan Rathore made his debut replacing man of the match MacDougall and gave a different option in the last few minutes. Ryan Lynch replaced Quinn in order to give some fresh legs against a desperate visiting outfit but not before he endured a moment to forget. After enterprising work, MacDougall managed to get the ball across to the 6 foot reptile. A scuff into the ground ensued and shortly after he scuttled away to the sidelines.

Glasgow got a second with five minutes left as Lynch misplaced a pass and the away side pounced. A quick through ball released the striker and his shot was saved but rebound off his shins and rolled over the line to set a nervy last few minutes. Lindsay nearly sealed the win after a marauding run beating three players before his skill limit hit full and he was blocked.

However Stirling kept the ball and saw the game out to take the 3 points. Stirling will be delighted with the win against one of the main challengers for the division 4 title this season and winning their home games will be a big step in gaining promotion this year.

Man of the Match: Mikey MacDougall

Stirling: Donnelly, Crawford, Lindsay, Dixon, McCue, Quinn (Lynch), Boyle (McCallum), Wells (Reid), Smith, MacDougall (Rathore), Bailey Subs: Chapman

Slamannan 2 Stirling Uni 3

2011-09-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

Slamannan 2 Stirling Uni 3

League campaign kicks off with a win

Stirling began life in Division 1 with a battling performance away to Slamannan which will stand the students in good stead for the season ahead. With the home side receiving 6 yellow cards and a sending off, Stirling can be commended on maintaining their composure to get the victory.

The university side have yet to find a settled side as is customary at this stage of the season so had to gel as a unit quickly. They did so quite well in the early stages but couldn't find the final pass in order to convert their possession.

Slamannan had the first clear cut chance of the match when the speedy striker rattled a post from close range giving the students a clear wake up call. With Cameron Mitchell getting more of the ball in the centre of the park, the uni began to create and look more of a threat.

Mikey MacDougall was first to see the whites of the keeper’s eyes. Latching on to a through ball he composed himself well before seeing the keeper pull off a great block to keep it goalless.

Having not learned enough from the earlier chance Stirling’s woodwork was in danger once again as the diminutive striker was first to a low cross and clipped the bar as Stirling were nearly undone once again.

Matty McLaughlin had the chance to open his account for the season soon after however as after good lay from Mitchell left Graeme Crawford facing up the home side’s defence. Crawford managed to find McLaughlin whose shot across the face of goal was smothered by the Slamannan No.1.

Stirling broke through shortly before half-time however and it came from the penalty sport. Chasing down a ball over the top, McLaughlin’s desire got him there ahead of the defender and he was chopped down. Crawford stepped up and, using the ‘Will Barker Penalty Taking Guide’, went low to the keeper’s right to give the students the lead.

The second half went more according to plan as Stirling kept the ball much to the frustration of their opponents. The referee had tried to keep his cards in his pockets but he was forced to act as time and again Stirling players were hauled down as they were punished for their better play.

They took advantage of their opponents red mist to double their lead on the hour. Mitchell showed tremendous vision to play in Crawford down the right and McLaughlin got in front of his marker to convert the drilled cross.

New captain Stevie Boyle had been leading his new charges superbly in the middle of the park, allowing the players in attack the freedom to take the extra risks. The game changed when his withdrawal was enforced due to the recurrence of a groin injury. However the introduction of Connor Wells certainly wasn't an uneventful one.

Owen Smith also joined the action replacing the committed MacDougall in playing just off the striker.

Stirling were to give themselves a scare when they gave away a penalty with 20 minutes left. Straight after a ball had flashed across the home side’s goal evading Mitchell and McLaughlin, the home side broke forward. A dinked ball towards the winger hit Wells on the shoulder but the movement of his arm towards the ball convinced the referee to point to the spot for the second time. Ross Chapman guessed correctly but there was too much power and the home side had a lifeline.

Crawford had the chance to seal the game by laying in Smith on a counter but his dallying on the ball meant by the time it arrived at Smith’s feet, the chance was gone. Although the defending by the one remaining defender has to be applauded.

Ryan Lynch replaced Ian Bailey as Stirling looked to retain possession with the clock running down. Wells was atone for the penalty incident with a crisp strike from 20 yards into the bottom corner giving the students a cushion they would come to need in the closing minutes.

The home side were reduced to ten men after Mitchell committed a foul and the central midfielder took exception, giving the creative midfielder a kick and push in the face for his trouble. Slamannan made one final effort at overturning the lead and made it 3-2 after a good strike from outside the box snuck in at the near post after Stirling failed to react to a quick free kick.

Stirling held out though to take 3 points that on another day could have been lost had the students not kept their composure. For their second competitive game as a squad Coach Tommy Craig will be pleased to see they have not lost their winning mentality over the summer break. With more match practice will surely come better performances but 3 points is all what they wanted from this early season encounter.

Coach’s Man of the Match: Ryan Mahoney

Stirling: Chapman, Dixon, Mahoney, Charles, McCue, Crawford, Boyle (Wells), Mitchell, Bailey (Lynch), McLaughlin, MacDougall (Smith) Subs: Meechan, McLean,

Stirling 2 Loganlea 0

2011-05-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

Parade around Stirling to be arranged

Title glory for deserving students

Stirling clinched the title with a comfortable win which saw them become the university side to move out of the league for the first time since their entry into the Stirling and District set-up in the late 1970’s.

The result was far more comfortable on the day than the scoreline suggests as the students made the most of their time on Stirling’s version of Wembley, the Stade De Gowrie. It may be a while before any of the team get to return to grace the park and they put on a terrific showing, providing the 20-strong support at the sidelines with a day to remember before Final Fling in the evening.

After the 5-1 win over Zetland in midweek, Stirling were full of confidence and this showed as they took control of the game from the off. The students looked determined as they tried to carve open a side who gave them one of their toughest games of the season in the reverse fixture, winning 1-0 in a hostile away match.

Quinn in impressive form

Ryan Quinn has been in imperious form down the left in the final games of the season and could have opened the scoring after just ten minutes. Released by a slide-rule Boyle pass through the centre, Quinn outstripped the defenders for pace but could only shoot straight at the keeper as Stirling settled well.

Chris Betreen and Matty McLaughlin have been in outstanding scoring touch recently, with 11 in the last 5 before this, and both looked dangerous once again as their movement caused havoc for the Loganlea backline.

It was top scorer Betreen who had the first attempt at keeping the streak going beating the offside trap to bare down on the keeper. Rounding the goalie, he did well to stay on his feet before shooting but the shot lacked enough power and the covering defender managed to clear.

Stirling looked dangerous every time they went forward with Will Barker in a typically creative mood. Spraying balls from side-to-side he was giving the kind of display that saw him named player of the year at the end of season awards. Ably assisted by Stevie Boyle, the two central midfielders were dictating the play as the students tried to get the win they need to secure the title.

They were to get the opener after 25 minutes and it was McLaughlin who got it. After another run from Quinn had escaped the troubled Loganlea right-back, he squared the ball across the penalty area. After Betreen couldn’t get there at the front post, McLaughlin arrived at the back to tap home, ease Stirling nerves and give the home crowd a chance to get their vuvuzela’s out.

Mahoney in typical 'Taps Aff' fashion.

Playing in their final games as students of the university, Ryan Mahoney and returning skipper Jono Cooper were commanding as ever in the heart of the defence not giving the opposition strike-force a sniff. Backed by James Brodie and Graeme Crawford in the fullback slots, Loganlea never got into the game, as an attacking force, at any stage.

Barker almost added to the lead after arriving late into the box to connect with Quinn’s cross but the Shrewsbury born number 7 couldn't direct his header away from the keeper and it was blocked away to safety. Stirling couldn’t force a second goal before half-time but went into the break buoyed by their first half performance, on a pitch that had deteriorated with a season’s worth of wear and tear to contend with.

The students were again dominant in the second period with Loganlea seemingly conceding that the students were the better side and deserved the trophy that was almost theirs. Unlike in midweek, the students kept up their level of performance in the second 45 and looked dangerous every time they went forward.

Mahoney rifled a free kick into the wall from a dangerous position, Barker put a free kick over the bar and McLaughlin had an effort saved by the keeper as Stirling continued to pile pressure on the defence.

The central midfield pairing of Loganlea began to see more of the ball as the half wore on and from a ball in behind, they nearly grabbed an undeserved equaliser. Cooper blocked a ball through and tried to take the ball out of defence. He was robbed by the opposing striker and with a first time hit the young left winger for Loganlea rattled the post from 20 yards.

MacDougall almost added
to the scoreline. It's meant to
be Blue Peter by the way.
"Thinking outside the box".

Taking advantage of the let off Stirling sealed the win as Crawford got into double figures for the season. A drilled corner from Barker went through everyone to the back post and seemingly away from danger. The defender’s clearance though, rebounded off his own man and fell kindly to Crawford 6 yards out who tapped home spreading relief through the Stirling ranks.

MacDougall replaced a tired Betreen up front while Barker was forced off with an injury, McLean coming on with McCall moving inside one. MacDougall had the chance to grab a goal on the hallowed turf after Crawford cut the ball back from the by-line, but his shot from 8 yards went up and over the bar as Stirling looked to add some gloss to the scoreline.

Connor Wells, with the gorgeous Sharon Wells watching on, replaced McCall in the centre of the park and almost scored moments after coming on. McLaughlin managed to run in behind and, going with the shout, cut the ball back to the edge of the area. Wells, even with his new aerodynamic haircut, couldn't get there quickly enough and the keeper smothered the ball at his feet.

Stirling played out the remaining time comfortably against a tired Loganlea side, which fell out of the title race a couple of weeks previous. With the sideline cheering every pass, Stirling played the game out and knew the title was theirs.

Captain will be a
big miss next season.

The final whistle sparked jubilant scenes as the students got their just reward for a tough season and there was a mini pitch invasion from the supporters as they joined in with the victorious songs. With the champagne empty, party poppers popped and the toy trophy presented, the students retreated to the changing rooms where the first of many beverages was cracked open and the third team went to Final Fling as Stirling and District League Champions.

Ecstatic captain Cooper said “I’m over the moon for the boys and delighted we have got from the season what we deserved. A lot of thanks must go to our coaches Tommy Craig and Gavin Skelton who have been exceptional throughout the year for us. In what could be my last season as a university player, it is a brilliant feeling to win the title as captain and get the team promoted for the first time in its history.”

James Brodie was unavailable for comment due to drunken circumstances.

Speacial mention must go to Ryan Mahoney, Jono Cooper, Matty McLaughlin, Chris Betreen and James Brodie who are in their final year as students and all will be massively missed.

Man of the Match: Ryan Quinn

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Brodie, McCall, Barker (McLean), Boyle, Quinn, Betreen (MacDougall), McLaughlin Subs: Chapman, Lynch

Zetland 1 Stirling 5

2011-05-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

Commanding victory leaves students 2 points from the title

Having won the previous encounter at home 1-0 with a last minute winner, the students were expecting a tough challenge in the return fixture. However Stirling blew their opposition away within half an hour to put them closer to securing the league title with a game to spare.

From the first whistle Stirling were on top as they looked to impose themselves on the game. Jamie McLean had come in for Ryan Lynch, on the right hand side, with Lynch still recovering from a midweek knock. McLean was heavily involved early on, driving at the defence and setting up Ryan Quinn who wastefully lobbed over the bar.

Influential early on.

McLean then had the chance to score himself as, after great build up play had released Quinn in behind and his shot was blocked, McLean strolled onto the ball 6 yards out but his shot was cleared off the line by the covering defender.

Zetland were playing an astonishingly high line which was to be their downfall throughout the first half, and ultimately led to the opening goal. Reaching a McLean through ball on the by-line Betreen took his time and squeezed the ball past the keeper into the bottom left hand corner which has become somewhat of a trademark for Betreen over his four years at university.

Stirling wasted little time in adding another as yet another through ball caught out the defence and McLean found himself through on goal. Taking the sensible option he squared for Quinn to have the simple task of knocking the ball home and unleashing the infamous lizard’s tongue.

Zetland were in disarray at how to handle the away side as they continued to pour forward in search of more goals. They found a third and it was that man Betreen again who sealed the game after only twenty minutes of play. Slipped in brilliantly in behind by Will Barker, Betreen took the ball on and surprised the goalkeeper by hitting an early strike that whistled into the near post top corner for his 21^st of the season.

MoM in great form.

Betreen was again at the centre of things moment later when Zetland were awarded a highly debatable red card. Having driven down the right-hand touchline brilliantly away from the defence, he was caught late after a cross but it was a surprise to everyone when the referee went for is back rather than front pocket. It was a lunging tackle but an early bath was unfortunate and killed any Zetland thoughts of a comeback.

Betreen almost got the illusive hat-trick he has been searching for all his uni career when a left foot scorcher rattled the bar and was cleared away to safety.

Any comeback hopes were further dented by a fourth goal of the game, coming from the in-form Matty McLaughlin. Betreen played in Quinn, who was clearly onside despite the calls from the Zetland sideline, and his shot was parried across to leave McLaughlin to put the ball into the empty net.

Half-time arrived with the game all but over and Stirling didn’t reach the same standard in the second half as they had in the first.

Sloppy passing and too many long balls led to Zetland having more of the game and putting Stirling under some sustained pressure. While the defence held firm, frustration seemed to be creeping in as they couldn’t replicate their composure from the first half.

Zetland started to create some chances as their pacey left winger had pushed up front in the second period. Ross Harkness was rarely troubled though as shots went well wide.

Quinn had a chance to add to the lead after a surging Ryan Mahoney run found the big centre half in the left hand side of the box. He squared to Quinn who scuffed his shot much to the stoppers frustration as he started the long trek back to centre half.

Graeme Crawford was withdrawn with a slight injury, and also to avoid further embarrassment from the quick striker who began to get the edge as the game progressed, with Connor Wells replacing him and Stevie Boyle filling in at right back.

Wells was immediately involved as he got into the penalty area to support. McLean got to the by-line and his cutback was met sweetly by ‘Weasley’ but the ball flew just over the bar to keep the magic wand celebration on ice and the first goal for a woman in district league football still to arrive.

Looked lively when introduced.

Stirling made a double switch with Betreen and Barker replaced by Euan McCall and Mikey MacDougall. MacDougall was involved from the off, with his new boots being proudly displayed to the masses, and his work-rate was troubling the Zetland defence and he won the ball back on numerous occasions.

MacDougall was unlucky not be awarded a penalty after a good one-two down the left gave him a shooting opportunity. As he was striking the ball the defender clipped his ankle, but the referee waved claims away claiming that the defender won the ball.

Stirling were to concede with ten minutes to go which was what they deserved from a lacklustre second half, although the ‘Get the ball’ shouts from Zetland were a tad ambitious. A touch and strike on the right-hand side of Stirling’s areas beat Harkness at his near post although it was a powerful strike which would have required a lot to keep out.

Stirling had the better for the final ten minutes and added some gloss to the scoreline with McLaughlin getting the customary brace Stirling 3^rd team strikers seem to love getting. Great running from MacDougall down the right meant he had time to deliver across the goal and McLaughlin was there to tap home.

With 11 goals in the last 4 games for the McLaughlin and Betreen strike pairing, they have become a lethal combination up front. With both in their final year at university they are going to be massive shoes to fill next season and hopefully they can sing of with a title winner’s medal to add to their massive collection of goals.

This was the perfect response by Stirling to the pressure of leading the title race. With Braehead losing to Stirling Thistle in the other game of meaning, it leaves Stirling needing 2 points from 2 games to win the title.

However they will look to have it done and dusted on Saturday against Loganlea. Playing on Stirling’s Stade de Gowrie in front of a record crowd, would be a fitting way to end the season. And with Final Fling arriving at night, providing the result goes the right way, the scenes after the game could be unbelievable.

Man of the Match: Chris Betreen

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford (Wells), Blair, Mahoney, Brodie, McLean, Boyle, Barker (McCall), Quinn, McLaughlin, Betreen (MacDougall) Subs: Chapman, Lynch

Dunblane Thistle 1 Stirling 4

2011-05-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

Sensational scenes at Dunblane High School
as Stirling are promoted.

Stirling breaks out of Division 2 with a comfortable win

Stirling produced an identical scoreline from the previous Wednesday to secure the three points they needed for promotion. On a tricky pitch and a flyaway football on show, the students did well to come from a goal down to put four goals away; although it could have been more.

Stirling took the decision to play into the wind for the first half, and it seemed to backfire as Dunblane made most of the early running. The long ball game plan of the home side was causing problems as the ball swirled in the wind and got caught in the sun, leaving the defence struggling to remain composed.

The home side took advantage of Stirling’s complacent start to take the lead. A flighted free-kick was headed back across goal and with runners not being tracked everywhere, one of many free Dunblane players headed home.

This sparked the young students into life and they began to keep possession which they should have done from the start. The ball was being spread across the back four with Ryan Mahoney and Ryan Blair being left with time on the ball due to the 4-4-1-1 formation Dunblane employed

Connor Wells started after an impressive performance in mid-week and, alongside player of the year Will Barker, looked relaxed in possession while winning tackles in the middle of the park.

Man of the Match
celebrates in typical
fashion.

It was from down the left wing that Stirling found an equaliser and it was Matty McLaughlin who got it. Ryan Quinn slipped him into the penalty area and after a neat Zidane swivel away from the sliding defender and, despite being off balance; he managed to lift the ball over the oncoming keeper for a deserved leveller.

Stirling made it 2-1 shortly after with one of the goals of the season. A tremendous passing move that went side to side across the park twice, as every player touched the ball, ended with a delightful through ball from the versatile Stevie Boyle into McLaughlin who slotted home first time.

Stirling took control from this point on and apart from a couple of concentration lapses in defence, they were under no real threat of conceding again. Jamie McLean replaced Ryan Lynch who was injured after a challenge with Dunblane keeper.

Quinn was having a tremendous first half and threatened a goal after cutting inside, but he fired his shot over the bar. Chris Betreen could have added to the lead just before halftime but Dunblane keeper Graeme Lavery spread himself well to block and keep the lead down to one.

Stirling came out after half-time and killed the game off within the first 5 minutes. Graeme Crawford cut inside from the right and flicked a ball in behind which Betreen finished in typical fashion, across the keeper, to all but seal the points.

Crawford could have scored a minute later after bursting through the middle of the defence, but he dragged his shot wide. Although Betreen could have got to the ‘cross’ had he been on his toes!

Stirling were completely dominant in possession, keeping the ball instead of playing the long pass forward they had resorted to at times after the Christmas break. Wells and Barker were orchestrating the play from the middle as the students cruised towards promotion.

Player of the year celebrates
with his best mate. And Cammy.

They added a fourth with Barker getting his 12^th of the campaign. Jamie McLean got the better of the full-back repeatedly in the second half, and on this occasion dinked a lovely ball up to the back post to Quinn who was pushed in the back as he went to nod home. Barker stepped up and scored in his usual spot to add to a fully-deserved scoreline.

Mikey MacDougall replaced Wells and Cooper came on for Quinn as Stirling relaxed with the three goal cushion.

The moment of the match arrived after tremendous play by man of the match McLaughlin. A flying run down the left touchline evaded two lunges before squaring to Cooper who first-time flicked inside to Betreen. Setting his self well 8 yards out he somehow defied his usual striking instinct and shinned the ball wide in what would was an unfortunate end to a great piece of build-up.

Stirling had a few more half chances, including a McLaughlin free-kick which is still rising, but the game fizzled out with Stirling by for the better side.

The students can look forward to plying their trade in Division 1 next year but they will be hopeful that it will be as Division 2 champions. With three games to go it is in their hands and all is to play for, three big performances will bring home the trophy.

Man of the Match: Matty McLaughlin

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Blair, Mahoney, Boyle, Lynch (McLean), Barker, Wells (MacDougall), Quinn (Cooper), McLaughlin, Betreen Subs: Chapman

Stirling 4 Dunblane Thistle 1

2011-04-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

Stirling march towards promotion with dominant win.

Stirling seem to have hit form at the perfect time of the season as they are now within three points of promotion to division 1. With 4 games remaining it seems the students will make the step up although a title is also up for grabs with Braehead hot on their heels.

On a difficult pitch and with the sun making it seeing the ball problematic, the students handled it better to dominate proceedings from the off.

A re-shuffled back four meant Ryan Mahoney had to again marshal a new defence from his customary centre-half role and was commanding as ever alongside ‘The Beard’ Stevie Boyle.

Too much wrestling
could have caused
goal drought.

The partnership of Chris Betreen and Matty McLaughlin up front continued to flourish after a brace from McLaughlin in the previous game, Betreen followed suit to break his 5 game barren spell.

Betreen had a chance early on as he latched on a ball down the left to break past the defender. Unfortunately on his weaker side he dragged his shot wide to let the away side off the hook.

Stirling were to take the lead not long after however as Graeme Crawford converted a Will Barker corner. With Mahoney distracting the taller defenders, Crawford got free at the front post and headed across the goal into the bottom corner for his 9^th of the season.

The goal calmed Stirling nerves and they began to play some encouraging passing football. Ryan Quinn linked up well with Euan McCall with a quick one-two down the left, but the Ryan Lynch couldn’t put the header past the over-worked goalkeeper.

Barker and McCall were pulling the strings from the middle of the park as Stirling dominated proceedings and could have went further ahead had Crawford converted one of the three headed chances from corners.

Tough for Quinn to claim
his 2nd of the season

Stirling took a two goal lead into half-time after great running from Betreen in the wide area left Quinn with the chance to score. His shot was deflected not once, not twice but three times before slithering into the net, leaving a tough decision for the dubious goals committee, however it looks doubtful the lizard can claim it as his own.

Dunblane came out for the second half at an increased tempo which caught the home side somewhat unawares and they struggled to get out of their half for the first ten minutes of the half.

They were made to pay for the poor start to the second period as Dunblane were awarded a fortunate penalty. After what looked like a foul throw, the striker completely missed the ball and it bounced up and onto Barker’s arm and the spot kick was given. Harkness couldn’t get near the ball as it nestled in the corner for a Thistle lifeline.

Stirling managed to regain their composure however and didn’t let the momentum sift completely towards the away team. Crawford and Owen Smith, in the other full-back position, were seeing plenty of the ball which allowed a better attacking threat for the university.

The game was virtually killed off as Betreen broke his recent goal-scoring duck, and hit the barn door he’d been missing recently. The young English frontman was rewarded for his effort and commitment as, after a great run, a Matty McLaughlin shot was blocked, and when Lynch squared Betreen was there to tap home and near the twenty-mark for the season.

The goal gave Stirling more composure as the away side began to tire. The front two for Stirling had visibly grown in confidence and were running the back four ragged in a pleasing sight for on-looking coach Craig.

Jamie McLean took over for Quinn on the left and after a difficult start, grew into the game and got the better of the full-back time and again.

Betreen added to his tally ten minutes after his first when ball-playing centre half Mahoney sent an outside of the foot pass forward in the direction of the over-lapping Crawford. With too much spin the ball made its way to Betreen, who spun his defender, and in typical fashion slotted by the keeper to add gloss to the scoreline.

Escaped one nickname. Gained another.

There was a brief pause as a lesbian seemed to invade the pitch and run towards a shocked referee. However it turned out to be a freshly shaven Connor Wells replacing the injured Barker and order was restored.

Stirling controlled the remainder of the game as the away side couldn’t keep up with the more athletic students. They could have added to their tally but a stonewall penalty on Betreen wasn't given as the official seemed to try and even up an earlier decision before the goal.

The final piece of action left Dunblane down to ten men as a late kick on McCall was seen as violent conduct by an overly officious referee. It was a harsh decision but made no impact on the game as it happened so late on.

Stirling now go into the re-match on Saturday knowing a win will guarantee them promotion although the champagne remains firmly on ice until the points are in the bag and a professional job is needed to keep their title ambitions on as much as anything.

Man of the Match: Chris Betreen

Stirling: Harkness, Smith, Boyle, Mahoney, Crawford, Lynch, McCall, Barker (Wells), Quinn (McLean), McLaughlin, Betreen Subs: Chapman, Cooper

Loganlea 0 Stirling 1

2011-04-18T11:42:00.001-07:00

Title push furthered by superb win

Stirling moved closer to promotion with a narrow win over title rivals Loganlea. Arriving in an area in the proverbial sticks, the students walked into an intimidating atmosphere which on another day could have went a lot worse for the university side.

James Brodie, Tom Flanagan and Chris Betreen all returned to the side after not starting the previous game at Braehead. Controversy was rife in this game as Loganlea felt aggrieved with the performance of the referee, although even a neutral would see the performance didn’t deserve the abuse he received.

Stirling, boosted by the 1-0 win against rivals Braehead on Monday, began well on a tight pitch which was unusually slick considering the weather of late.

Stirling’s back for were tested by an Andy Carroll/Jesus look-a-like and the most annoying striker ever, but they dealt well with the early threat and began to keep control of the ball for sustained periods.

Stirling almost took the lead when MacDougall broke the offside trap to come onto a through ball against an on-rushing keeper. Slotting the ball to the keeper’s left she saved with his hand and even though he was clearly 5 yards out his area the referee played on.

Ross Harkness was brought into action on the twenty minute mark as a long ball made its way to the Loganlea number nine. Forced wide by the ever-commanding Ryan Mahoney he managed to get a shot away which was easily dealt with as the shot came across his body.

Stirling coped well with the more physical home side but their massive height advantage was evident at set pieces. A succession of long throws and corners caused trouble in the Stirling box and a couple of headers just evaded Stirling’s post as the students lived dangerously.

However they could have went ahead after a searching ball from the defence from fullback Graeme Crawford found Betreen. Caught in two minds, the Englishman put an early cross in towards his strike-partner which was cut out, when the shot himself was probably the better option.

They were to take the lead ten minutes before the break however when a dubious penalty went their way. Betreen got free from the last defender but was repeatedly held back, and although the foul appeared to begin way outside the box, the referee pointed to the spot.

In the absence of regular taker Will Barker, Crawford stepped up. The ball wasn’t struck as cleanly as the number 2 would have hoped and was fortunate to see the keeper get a hand to it but fail to keep it out, to give an 8^th goal of the season for the right back.

Loganlea were rattled by the loss of the goal and took the frustration out on each other. Two of the players had to be taken aside and calmed by the referee as an on-field argument almost turned violent.

The whistle for half time sounded with Stirling on top and the home side increasingly aggravated by what they perceived as poor refereeing. Coach’s Tommy Craig and Gavin Skelton helped Stirling remained calm in a game which could have easily overflowed had the students lost their cool at any point.

The student’s were knocking the ball about nicely while Mahoney, assisted by Flanagan and Crawford, kept the team’s concentration high with good communication.

The loudmouth, inept frontman for the home side was replaced at half time with pace and youth which caused a different problem for the Stirling defence; but one they dealt with effectively.

MacDougall had the chance to stretch the lead for the students when he was released by the versatile Stevie Boyle, who had returned to his natural centre midfield berth. Unfortunately the flame haired striker couldn’t add to his tally as he scuffed his effort into the legs of the keeper to set a tone for Stirling’s finishing from then on.

The game was swinging from end to end as both defences came under more pressure.

Ryan Quinn was next to see the whites of the keeper’s eyes as he collected Crawford’s through ball but his finish was identical to the earlier MacDougall effort and Loganlea survived again.

Another impressive performance by Owen Smith came to an end when he was replaced by McLaughlin on the hour. This looks to be an impressive addition to an already talented squad which could be crucial to the title run in.

Boyle could have sealed it fifteen minutes from time when great link-up down the right involving McLaughlin, Quinn and Crawford led to a free header from the fullback’s cross. Unfortunately the dynamic midfielder couldn’t find the finish which would have made the game safe.

Loganlea pressed forward in the final ten and nearly were gifted an equaliser by a hugely uncharacteristic mistake by captain for the night Mahoney. Dallying in possession allowed the speedy striker to nick the ball and set up the supporting midfielder, who blazed over. This was the only error in an otherwise impeccable display from the stopper who may be playing his final games for the university.

Loganlea were reduced to nine men in quick succession as after a tackle the home side’s player was given a second yellow for dissent. The other was dismissed for an off the ball swipe of substitute Ryan Lynch’s legs which the player couldn’t have too many complaints about due to the lateness of the supposed ‘tackle’.

The final moment of controversy arrived in the last minute as a corner was whipped into the Stirling penalty area. A snap shot caught Betreen on the arm but the referee took the view he could do nothing about it, and the rebound was smashed against the chest of Boyle as Stirling clung on.

Straight from this Betreen found himself through on goal but put it wide with virtually the last kick of the game.

A massive three points for the students was overshadowed by the referee being forced to flee the area, still in full kit, due to his fear for his own safety. The University side did well to focus on the football and put in an impressive display against tough opposition.

Stirling travel to local rivals Thistle on Saturday knowing a win would inch them closer to promotion which would be well deserved for this squad full of character.

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Flanagan, Mahoney, Brodie, Quinn (Lynch), McCall, Boyle, Smith (McLaughlin), MacDougall, Betreen Subs: Lynch, Wells

Braehead 0 Stirling 1

2011-04-14T11:11:00.001-07:00

Title in Stirling hands after battling win

Stirling took a huge step towards promotion and perhaps the division 2 title with a win over rivals Braehead. Coming off the back of a 4-1 defeat the previous week from the same opponents, Stirling were determined to put up a better showing this time around.

Stirling had the better of the opening exchanges as the more experienced Braehead side seemed to take the students for granted. Stevie Boyle slotted into centre half alongside Ryan Mahoney and these two put on a tremendous showing snuffing out attacks time and again.

Will Barker was breaking forward from midfield looking for through balls and he nearly gave the lead to the away side after ten minutes. Graeme Crawford played a ball forward from the right back area which Barker took in his stride before firing across goal, narrowly wide of the target.

It was from a similar run, however, that Stirling was to take the lead. Barker pounced on the second ball of a Ross Harkness goal kick and timed the pass perfectly to release Euan McCall. Taking the shot first time, McCall put it neatly into the bottom corner to put the university side ahead.

Braehead were dangerous on the ball with pace and height causing the students some problems. For all their positive attributes though, Stirling remained relatively untroubled throughout the first half. A flicked ball left the striker one on one with Harkness but his attempted lob was gathered easily by the tall keeper.

One other moment of danger came when the ball was cleared off the Stirling line much to Braehead’s dismay. However the ball was clearly not over, a fact admitted by the Braehead player’s closest to the play.

The second half took a similar appearance to the first, with Braehead having the majority of the ball, but failing to break down a stubborn defence. Play was disrupted by a spate of injuries to both sides and although none were serious, play was disrupted sufficiently to cause the game to lose its flow.

Stirling were compact and threatened on the counter against a Braehead side who looked to use the presence of their ginger haired centre mid and their lofty striker to cause problems. For all their attempts the back four, ably supported by the rest of the team, was dealing with the pressure well.

Both sides were reduced to ten men after the hour mark, as a contested tackle led to a heated aftermath in which the referee sent both players off. Stirling went to a 4-4-1 to deal with this and coped comfortably with enforced change.

Harkness’ goal remained relatively danger-free as only a couple of long range efforts, which were dealt with comfortably, threatened an equaliser.

Stirling could have wrapped the game up with five to go as Betreen took advantage of an over committed defence to go through on the keeper. Unfortunately his usual precision finishing let him down and Stirling held out for the last minutes efficiently.

Ref’s Man of the Match: Stevie Boyle/Ryan Mahoney

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Boyle, Mahoney, Watson, McLean, Bews, Barker, Smith (Quinn), McCall, MacDougall (McLaughlin) Subs: Chapman

Stirling 4 Glenvale 2

2011-04-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Doouuuggggaaayyyy!!!!!

Finally! In a more anticipated moment than The Rock’s return to WWE, Mikey MacDougall at last managed to see the net rustle. To quote Football Manager, relief was etched across MacDougall’s face as he ended his goal drought and hopefully they will now begin to flow.

On a glorious day for football Stirling looked comfortable in this match despite conceding two sloppy goals which put their position under question.

With Glenvale arriving with barely a starting 11, the students knew they should be putting a few goals past an ageing side sitting bottom of the league.

Stirling were keeping the ball well from the off as they played across the back four well, although the ball into strikers and midfield was not quite as good.

They were to get the early goal they needed through Chris Betreen as he latched onto a MacDougall through ball. After rounding the keeper he managed to slot home from a tight angle and Stirling were ahead.

Despite being rarely pressurised on the ball to any real extent, Stirling failed to press home their advantage as a couple of long-range efforts whistled over the bar and the away side’s keeper made some good blocks.

Glenvale equalised against the run of play as indecision cost Stirling. A long ball through the middle was deflected and with returning keeper Ross Chapman and Ryan Mahoney leaving it to each other, the Glenvale frontman nipped in to knock it over Chapman and into the net.

It wasn't long before the home side managed to get back in front however and it was that man MacDougall who got off the mark for the season. Chasing down a lost cause he managed to nick the ball from a stumbling defender on the left side of the area. Ignoring Ryan Quinn in the centre, MacDougall curled a beautiful effort into the far corner and a surprisingly muted celebration from the shocked frontman.

Glenvale hit back five minutes later though as Stirling’s lack of height was exposed from a free kick. A ball from the Stirling right was flighted in to the back post and one of three men who had slipped their marker nodded up and over Chapman to bring the game level again.

Stirling were playing better than previous games and deserved more than a draw going into the final stages of the half. They were to get their reward after a stunning strike from central midfielder Euan McCall. After a ball was headed out to around twenty yards, McCall stepped onto the half volley, left footed, and rifled it into the top left corner.

There was still time for captain for the day Will Barker to clip the crossbar from a free kick as Stirling took a narrow lead into the break, which should have been a lot more.

The domination of possession continued in the second half for the Stirling side as they kept the ball nicely, though the pace of the game was relatively slow.

Stirling were gaining joy with their movement through the middle and also down the flanks. James Brodie and Graeme Crawford were getting forward in support, with Crawford going close with a shot from the edge of the box which just went wide of the left post.

Will Barker almost added a fourth but the cut back from Crawford had too much pace, meaning the young Englishman was unable to force the ball goal wards. Ghazi replaced Betreen as they looked for a different option in attack to find the killer goal.

Owen Smith made his debut for the university third team and looked controlled and comfortable on the ball. He was unlucky not to open his account as a volley flashed across the face of goal and wide.

Stirling were to kill the game off with twenty minutes left as they were awarded a penalty. Ryan Mahoney was bundled over at a corner, leaving the referee no choice, and Barker stepped up to slot home.

Stirling made further changes as Connor Wells came on in middle of the park and looked composed as Stirling saw out the game, reshuffling player’s positions in preparation for Monday’s game at Braehead.

Crawford had a late chance getting away from two players before shooting just wide. The game was seen out with more Stirling pressure on a day when they could have scored a lot more.

After recent performances, Stirling will be happy at some of the football they played, although they are still quite a bit away from their best. Braehead on Monday is a massive game as Stirling seek revenge for the previous 4-1 defeat, and it makes for a appetising contest.

Ref’s Man of the Match: Will Barker (Although player’s give it to Douuugggaaayyyy)

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Boyle, Mahoney, Brodie, McLean, Barker, McCall (Wells), Quinn (Smith), MacDougall, Betreen (Ghazi) Subs: Lynch

Stirling 1 Braehead 4

2011-04-07T07:08:00.000-07:00

Poor first half costs students dear

Stirling’s title hopes were dented after a terrible first half performance allowed Braehead to take 3 points and move above the students in the table. With Braehead’s pitch unplayable the tie was moved to Airthrey and it was the beginning of nightmare for Stirling’s players.

After a disappointing result the previous Saturday, Stirling were desperate to make amends but got off to the worst possible start; conceding after just 20 seconds. After Graeme Crawford’s pass was misplaced, the Braehead left midfielder drove from his own half through the centre and his shot clipped Ryan Mahoney. Making a rare mistake, by getting his angles wrong, Ross Harkness allowed the shot to trickle into bottom corner and Stirling were behind.

The students were to concede a second after 15 minutes which was exactly what they deserved for the poor start. After the ball was cleared Crawford and Tom Flanagan were slow to push out, leaving the striker onside, and the clipped ball back into the area was finished off comfortably.

Stirling were in disarray at their inability to complete more than two passes before surrendering possession. In a rare Stirling foray into the Braehead half, Will Barker managed to release Chris Betreen in behind. However the usually prolific frontman was forced wide and the resultant shot went into the side netting.

This should have spurred the students on but it was Braehead who were to grab a third before the break. A shot across Harkness from the home side’s left was spilled and the striker gleefully tapped home to further dent Stirling spirits.

The university side were determined to restore some pride on a day when they were not playing to any sort of acceptable standard, and this was achieved to some extent by a more competitive second half.

Needing to attack considerably more than the first half showing, Stirling’s fullbacks were pushing further forward and the centre mid pairing of Barker and Stevie Boyle were exerting more of an influence in the second period.

Betreen and Scott Tully were struggling to hold the ball up against a physical defence and, as a result, the home side were still ineffectual in attack even with the build-up improving.

Mikey MacDougall and Euan McCall, on either flank, were struggling to apply their ability into the game as Stirling were snuffed out by a team who ran away with the division below last season and, at times, it was clear to see why.

Stirling brought on Ryan Quinn, Ghazi with around half an hour to go as they looked for a bit of invention that they hadn’t found already. Jamie McLean also joined the action in place of Barker who went down awkwardly after a corner and had to be withdrawn.

It was one of the substitutes, Quinn, who was to get a consolation with ten to go rising to nod home from a corner to give Stirling some hope. Ghazi almost added another with an audacious overhead kick which was palmed away by the relatively untroubled Braehead goalkeeper.

However the away side were to have the final say as they increased the scoreline with a fourth in the final minute. After Stirling pressure a quick counter left the defence exposed and the ball was slotted past Harkness, into his bottom left hand corner to round off a miserable day for the men in green.

Stirling will have to escape this slump in form that has seen them fail to turn up for 3 successive games, if they have intentions of silverware this season. Harsh words may be needed to make the students snap out of Christmas holiday mode, they still seem to be in, and back to the form which saw them sit top of the league not too long ago.

Man of the Match: Ryan Mahoney

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Flanagan, Mahoney, Brodie, McCall, Barker (McLean), Boyle, Tully (Quinn), MacDougall (Ghazi), Betreen Subs: Chapman, Lynch

Stirling couldn’t retain the ball as Braehead continually pressed forward putting pressure on an unusually nervous backline. Stirling left back James Brodie was caught off the ball and after a brief spell of handbags, the ladies dusted themselves down and the game continued with no cards being issued.

Tullibody 1 Stirling 2

2011-04-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

Daylight Robbery

Stirling spent a night in the cells after throwing on the balaclava’s and stripy jumpers to nick 3 points from a dominant Tullibody outfit. With the main talk before the match being of the local celebrity in the oppositions ranks, Take me out’s Tambo, Stirling took their eye of the ball putting a poor performance which deserved a defeat rather than a promotion boosting win.

Right from the start Tullibody took control, spraying the ball across the park until the long ball in behind was on. Stirling’s backline were repeatedly stretched in the early moments by the pace of the opposition’s strike force.

They were lucky to remain level as a ball down the left evaded Mitch Henderson and left a one v one with Ross Harkness staying big and forcing the shot to trickle wide. Stirling weren’t to escape unharmed though as their poor start was punished minutes later. Yet another long ball left Harkness exposed and this time there was no mistake with the finish, leaving Stirling shell shocked at the start.

Tullibody continued to maintain possession as Stirling struggle to get a hold of the ball for more than a couple of passes. Tackle were flying in from all angles from the home side which was to be a feature of the game, something Stirling will have to get used to over the remainder of the season.

Kept Stirling in the game

The front pairing of Chris Betreen and Jason Bolam were struggling to touch the ball, never mind create a chance, due to the majority of second balls finding a Tullibody player. Stirling were lucky to go into half-time with only a one goal deficit as a cross from the Stirling left was met with a firm header and, instinctively, Harkness managed to palm the ball away from danger.

The second half was a more even affair as Stirling managed to settle on what was a bobbly playing surface. The on-loan Kevin Hughes was winning almost every header in the centre of the park and Stirling were picking up the loose balls which gave a basis to build from. Jason Bolam had an early chance, picking the ball up and, with defenders being dragged away, unleashed a driven effort which went narrowly wide of the left hand post.

Local Celeb

Mikey MacDougall replaced Connor Wells in a tactical reshuffle while Tambo made his much anticipated appearance as a striker. It was almost an immediate impact from the bleach blonde frontman as he had a golden chance one on one with Harkness. Unfortunately he blew it by blazing over as the nightmare noise of 30 buzzers sounding came flooding back.

Matty McLaughlin replaced Ryan Quinn as MacDougall went out right with Jamie Mclean moving in one to centre midfield. This switch gave the away side a better structure and they took advantage almost straight away. After Graeme Crawford had clipped a ball in behind for Betreen, the covering defender punched the ball clear stopping Betreen from being in on goal. Only the free kick was given and, after a brief delay while Crawford’s toys were cleared from the pitch back to the pram, McLaughlin stepped up to rifle the ball into the top right postage stamp and the students were level.

An increasingly vocal Tullibody sideline was contesting every possible decision with the referee being abused whenever feasible. The referee was managing to control the game well as late challenges were coming in on Stirling’s players like they were going out of fashion. A number of yellow cards were handed out after a series of fouls, which didn’t go down well with the home side’s support.

Match Winner

Stirling completed the smash and grab with 5 minutes remaining. After McLaughlin came off injured, Crawford moved on one and Tom Flanagan came in at right back. After Flanagan’s hopeful/calculated ball forward, Bolam played Crawford in down the right. Managing to get to the by-line, the ball was stood up to the back post and, as the keeper flapped, Hughes was there to tap home and secure a valuable 3 points.

A late sending off for foul and abusive language left the home side further frustrated and the game ended in a fortunate win for the university side.

Stirling know they will have to improve when they face the upcoming challenges in the next few games, starting with Stirling Thistle on Saturday. A majority of the team will need to toughen up if they are continue this 100% record and have hopes at a title party come the end of the campaign.

Manager’s Man of the Match: Graeme Crawford

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Henderson, McLean, Wells (MacDougall), Hughes, Quinn(McLaughlin(Flanagan)), Bolam, Betreen Subs: Chapman

Stirling 1 Zetland 0

2011-03-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

Better late than never for students.

Stirling left it late to extend their 100% record in the Stirling and District league as they overcame a stubborn Zetland side. Coming into a tough spell of 5 games in 11 days, Stirling battled to a victory and two points gained in what could be a very tight league come the end of the season.

Always Prepared

Ross Harkness returned in the sticks while Jason Bolam took his place up top after being unavailable for the previous few games. Stirling began brightly with Ryan Quinn achieving some success down the left, linking up with Bolam as both teams tried to settle.

The home side were nearly in front after 5 minutes as Ryan Mahoney met a Will Barker delivery at the far post, only to see his header strike the post and come back out. Within minutes another chance beckoned as a searching ball in behind left Jamie McLean clean through. Unfortunately the return of the ‘McLean stumble’ meant his first touch was too heavy and the keeper collected.

Unfortunate

Chris Betreen had a chance on the 25 minute mark as he fought his way past the closing defender and struck a fierce effort across goal; only to see it miss the target and any arriving Stirling players. The English front man came even closer ten minutes later as he rattled a post as Stirling inched closer to a goal. After good build up down the left, Bolam slipped a lovely ball inside to Betreen who seemed to stumble before striking a daisy-cutter which had the keeper beaten, but not the post.

For all their hustle and bustle, Zetland were not creating much against the Stirling backline which repelled any attacks with consummate ease. Stirling, however, where struggling against the weight of numbers in the centre of the park and consequently struggled to mount many attacks of their own. Half-time arrived with Stirling content with their own performance, but not of the referees who seemed to have forgotten that it was a contact sport; at least when it came to Stirling players.

Coming out into the second half, the students upped the tempo and began to create more space in the wide areas. Bolam and Betreen were running the Zetland defence ragged with constant movement although they were unable to threaten the scorers too often. Fullbacks James Brodie and Graeme Crawford, as well as Mahoney and Will Barker, were exerting more of an influence in the second half which pushed Stirling forward and gave an added threat they were missing in the first.

Ryan Lynch and Mikey MacDougall replaced McLean and Quinn on either wing as Stirling looked for a spark to their attacking play. Stirling were being hampered by poor decision after poor decision from a referee who seemed intent on an away win. Stirling were forced to contend against the 12 men as they were penalised for the most in-noxious of fouls time and again.

Quiet day

A succession of set plays gave the home side a chance of snatching a goal but they were unable to take advantage despite the terrific delivery. Stirling were looking comfortable in defence, emphasized by Harkness having little do the entire match and having time to indulge in banter towards the referee such was his passive involvement.

Converted a Barker corner

Just as Zetland seemed to sense an undeserved point, Stirling pinched a winner 5 minutes from time. With yet another corner whipped into the near post, Crawford managed to lose his marker and head across goal. With the referee itching to disallow the goal due to the man on the line, he was denied as the ball bounced over the line then into the roof of the net via the defenders desperation kick.

The final whistle sounded to the frustration of a Zetland side which boiled over and Mahoney was headbutted which led to a red card for the Zetland man. It wasn't quite Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final but nothing is in the district league. Mahoney did well to restrain himself and it sets up an interesting away trip for the Stiring side later in the season after the Mohammed Ali punch Crawford received last year away to Stirling Thistle.

This was no more than Stirling deserved as the continued their fine start to the Saturday league and moved to the top of the league for the first time this season. With games coming thick and fast the students will look to take their good form into the Tullibody match on Wednesday. A clash between two of the promotion favourites could have a considerable bearing on where the title rests at the end of the season.

Man of the Match: Ryan Mahoney

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Brodie, McLean (Lynch), Barker, Boyle, Quinn (MacDougall), Betreen, Bolam Subs: Meechan, Flanagan, Wells

Drumpellier Thistle 1 Stirling 3

2011-03-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

Stirling ease through to next round

Ryan Lynch impressed

Stirling came through yet another cup tie as the league has been put to the side for now. Having only played 5 league games it is another competition they may have preferred not to have, but it is another chance at silverware for this deserving side.

Stirling took control of the match from the off against a side a division above but not at a standard befitting this. Possession was maintained comfortably as they stretched the Cumbernauld side early on. Ryan Lynch was involved heavily in the early exchanges beating his man time and again, with the linkup between himself, Stevie Boyle and Will Barker being a particular highlight.

Stirling were to take the lead in typical Chris Betreen fashion. A delightful dinked ball through the middle was taken in his stride and powered across the goalkeeper into the bottom left corner. It was no more than the university outfit deserved and they continued to cause the Thistle defence problems. Euan McCall was holding the ball up well and bringing wide men Jamie McLean and Lynch into play to great effect although a second goal remained out of reach for the minute.

Jono Cooper and Tom Flanagan were giving tremendous cover to allow James Brodie and Graeme Crawford to push forward in support without having the backline exposed. Crawford almost gave Stirling a cushion when a header from a corner was played back across goal and was cleared a yard from the line. The game was becoming stretched as the fitness of the Thistle players didn’t match up to going forward and tracking back too often and as such, Barker and Boyle were exploiting the gaps through the middle. Unfortunately the Stirling side couldn’t quite find the target with their efforts on goal.

Man of the Match with a double

Thistle nearly equalised when a header from a corner clipped the back post with returning keeper Ross Harkness stranded. Stirling were to go into half time with a second goal in their locker however after the goalkeeper gave away a penalty. Boyle had broken from midfield and got the break of the ball in the box. Taking a touch round the keeper, he was ready to slot home but was denied as the keeper took him down. Barker stepped up and in trademark fashion, stroked it into the bottom left corner to give the away side a comfortable lead.

Stirling took their lead for granted in the second half as a barrage of chances were missed at one end, while defending became slack at the other. Crawford was gaining success down the right with a series of bursts forward but Stirling failed to capitalise on numerous 4 v 3’s and 3 v 2’s as Drumpellier looked for a way back into the game. McLean had switched wings with Lynch and it was from the right that he was to have his moment of the match. After some great build up play released Betreen down the left, he squared the ball perfectly on a plate for McLean 5 yards out. Unfortunately the whole of the goal wasn't a big enough target and the ball clipped the outside of the post and wide, with McLean claiming a very suspect ‘bobble’.

Similar Expression after the 'bobble'

Thistle were to capitalise as they got a goal back soon after. A slide rule pass in between Crawford and Flanagan left the left winger in on goal. From a tight angle he rifled a shot past Harkness into the very top right hand corner and gave a lifeline to the division 1 side. However as the game became even further stretched it was Stirling who looked the more likely to score. Ryan Quinn replaced Lynch as Stirling looked to put the game out of sight.

They were to do so with 2 minutes of the match remaining as Will Barker got his second of the game. Cutting inside from the left, using pent up frustration at the earlier missed chances, he struck a powerful, swerving effort that beat the keeper all ends up. Stirling saw the game out and while the home side never really looked like creating a clear cut chance and getting an equaliser, the students will be disappointed the game was out of sight earlier.

Overall a performance which shows the attacking intent that has been lacking over previous games, albeit without the finishing to match. Stirling move through to the last 16 of a competition they have a great chance of winning if they can make it past their next opponents Stenhousemuir who are third in the premier division, two leagues above Stirling. The league will have to play second fiddle once again for now.

Man of the Match: Will Barker

Stirling: Harkness, Crawford, Cooper, Flanagan, Brodie, Lynch (Quinn), Barker, Boyle, McLean, McCall, Betreen Subs: Chapman, Mahoney,

Glasgow Caledonian 1st’s 2 Stirling 0

2011-03-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

BUCS season ends on low note with defeat.

Stirling came away from Glasgow with nothing as their opponents proved their quality with a two goal win. In truth the win was deserved for a team who won promotion on the day and, with two 10-0 wins and a 9-0 victory during the season, it was fitting they moved up a division.

Influential early on

Stirling arrived late to the game leaving themselves with virtually no time for a warm-up. However, in spite of this, they began well thriving on having no pressure to win and passing the ball around freely. Stirling threatened first down their right hand side as James Brodie left the left-back trailing as he drove down the wing and into the box, but his cutback couldn’t find Stirling feet and it was cleared. Brodie was involved minutes later as his cross come shot whistled past the post as Stirling threatened to break through.

The visitor’s best chance of the match arrived on the 15 minute mark as a raking ball from skipper Jono Cooper left Chris Betreen in behind the defence. Shrugging off the covering defender, Betreen got a shot away which the keeper got down well to block as the pressure seemed to be getting to the Glasgow players.

Solid between the sticks

However this let-off seemed to spur the home side on as they held onto the majority of possession for the rest of the game. Stirling held firm against the threat with Ryan Mahoney commanding as ever alongside Cooper denying the dangerous strike-force any clear cut chances. Kieran McCulloch gaining a rare start looked composed in goal as he saw a couple of shots drift past his post. McCulloch was called into action with half time approaching as a scramble in the box led to a reaction stop which thumped the post and rebounded into his arms.

Stirling came out after the break with renewed vigour and created more opportunities than in the last half hour of the first and Will Barker had a long range effort which kept the keeper on his toes to see it over. Barker and his midfield partner Stevie Boyle were performing admirably against a side who drift from the positions regularly leaving them difficult to mark and track runners.

Stirling were unable to hold out against the soon to be league winners as they made the breakthrough on the hour. A whipped delivery from the right was deflected and the Glasgow striker fairly won the challenge with McCulloch to bundle home and settle Glasgow nerves. With Stirling visibly disappointed, Glasgow took the opportunity to double their lead 5 minutes later. After what looked a stonewall penalty after a challenge from Graeme Crawford, the referee inexplicably awarded a corner. However Glasgow’s protestations were short lived as from the resultant delivery Ryan Quinn lost his marker and the ball was bulleted home at the back post.

Denied a goal in his final BUCS appearance

Stirling did respond well in the final part of the game and almost gave themselves hope with 25 minutes to go. After Crawford was fouled, the free-kick was taken quickly into Betreen whose shot was deflected and the Glasgow keeper pulled off a tremendous save to get back across and tip wide. Boakye and Flanagan came on as Stirling went to a 3-4-3 to try and get a goal back with Cooper moving up front. However their efforts were futile as the remainder of the game passed without incident and Glasgow were crowned champions.

It was a just result for Glasgow and Stirling had to concede that they were the better side over the season. A third place finish for Stirling is not what they wanted although they can take heart from their performances against tough opposition into their quest for Saturday silverware.

Special mention must go to Ryan Mahoney, Jono Cooper, Chris Betreen and James Brodie who were paying in their final BUCS Wednesday games and their efforts will be hugely missed by the remaining players next season. The events after the game saw them off in tremendous style even if no-one can remember much.

Man of the Match: Curtis Wilson (couldn’t remember who got it but think it was the Wizzleman)

Stirling: McCulloch, Crawford (Flanagan), Cooper, Mahoney, Wilson, Brodie, Barker, Boyle, Lynch (Boakye), MacDougall, Betreen Subs: Chapman, Quinn

Stirling 0 Glasgow University 3’s 0

2011-03-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Posted Missing: A goal for Stirling Uni

Stirling failed to find the net for the second game in a row as Glasgow took a point away from Airthrey. With both teams having nothing to play for, after Stirling’s loss last week and Glasgow’s relegation, the game had the feel of an end of season affair as neither side could grab an elusive winner.

Captain Fantastic

Stirling were much changed once again with coach, captain and vice captain still unavailable Ryan Mahoney once again took charge with Ross Chapman captaining the side. Stirling began positively with some enterprising football causing the visitors problems as they looked to bounce back from their loss in Aberdeen the previous week. High wind was causing both sides problems and Stirling were forced to play into it for the first half as keeping the ball on the floor became the order of the day.

Unable to capitalise on their possession, Stirling allowed Glasgow into the game as they began to threaten on the counter as Stirling pushed forward. Chapman was forced to lead by example as he continued his fine form between the posts with a stunning save low to his left after the defence was left exposed. Minutes later after another Stirling attack, Mahoney and Tom Flanagan were faced with 5 Glasgow attackers pouring forward. As the ball was cut across the 6 yard box the ball was placed towards the corner and Flanagan was alive to clear off the line.

Stirling took this let off as they should and almost went ahead on the half hour mark. After a mazy run down the right from Graeme Crawford a quick one-two with Ryan Lynch was just over hit and the chance was gone as the Glasgow centre half got across to clear. Half-time arrived with little more in the way of chances as both teams cancelled each other out.

Rare bright spark on the day

With words of encouragement Stirling came out just as the wind decided to have a break which made for a better spectacle than the first half. Mikey MacDougall was fulfilling his role superbly dropping deep and collecting the ball although options ahead of him were few and far between as Stirling looked toothless in attack. Stevie Boyle was replaced by Joe Boakye as injury got the better of him and he was forced off.

Both teams were struggling to create clear cut chances and it was almost a stroke of fortune that could have given Stirling the win as a MacDougall corner was cleared off the line with Crawford inches away. Glasgow offered little in attack as only a couple of long range efforts troubled Stirling’s captain, although Chapman did have to be alert to tip over when a header at the back post was sneaking under the bar.

Ryan Quinn came on for Euan McCall as Stirling looked to find a spark to win the game. However the final twenty minutes continued to be bereft of opportunities as sub Boakye had three long range efforts which went wide and the goalkeeper remained untroubled. The final whistle went with a draw being a fair result on the day as neither side deserved to take the three points.

Stirling will now be focussing all their efforts onto a Saturday as they look to win a league they should have been promoted from the previous season. Having a perfect record of 6 wins out of 6 so far they will hope to continue this with a win over Zetland at the weekend.

Man of the Match: Ryan Lynch

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Flanagan, Mahoney, Henderson, Brodie, Boyle (Boakye), Wells, Lynch, McCall (Quinn), MacDougall Subs: McCulloch

Stirling 0 Newhall Leith Vic’s 1

2011-03-06T15:13:00.000-08:00

Cup exit after Stirling draw a blank

Stirling failed to score for only the second time this season and it was to cost them place in the last 16. Having played, and defeated, two of the top teams from this league, Stirling were under no illusions over the task in hand facing a side 2^nd top of an equivalent 2 divisions above. However they put in a strong, disciplined performance and were perhaps unlucky to lose out.

Stirling went into the game without their coach, captain and vice-captain which left Ryan Mahoney to lead the way. Tom Flanagan came into central defence and Euan McCall took over central midfield duties and stuck to their task admirably.

Betreen unusually off target

Stirling began in similar fashion to Wednesday’s poor result as they gave too much time and space to the Newhall side who used this to spray cross-field balls causing trouble for James Brodie and Graeme Crawford at either fullback. However Stirling were to go against the run of play to create the best chance of the half. After some incisive build-up play Chris Betreen was released down the right one-on-one with the goalkeeper. With the bookies refusing to take any more mortgages on Betreen scoring, he left many homeless by slotting in to the side netting as Newhall received a massive let off.

The game was springing from end to end as Newhall’s direct style was causing problems to the Stirling defence on the counter. However both teams were cancelling each other out and Newhall were restricted to long shots which Chapman dealt with consummately. Michael MacDougall was dropping deep to collect but Stirling were lacking an attacking intent which meant, apart from the early scare, the Newhall keeper could have joined the six coaches on a vocal visiting sideline.

Half-time arrived with only a free header at the front post troubling Stirling untowardly and Stirling took words of encouragement into the second half which they began brightly.

Straight from the restart they began to keep the ball to a standard that was lacking in the first half. Crawford had a great deal of the ball in the fullback area as Stevie Boyle and McCall were able to find space in a previously congested midfield. Stirling were still unable to test the opposition with anything more than a long range Boyle strike after some neat play down the right by Jamie McLean and Crawford.

Gaffer for the day lead from the front

Mahoney and Flanagan were combining well to deal with a sprightly forward line as well as the midfield runners who were in support. Ross Chapman remained relatively untroubled though until the hour mark as Newhall’s centre half bulleted a header at the back post which Chapman was forced to tip over. Set-pieces remained the main source of threat for either side as for all the intricate build up, both side were foiled at the last time and again.

MacDougall almost got off the mark for the season after a scuffed free kick from Boyle found his feet 12 yards out. His touch and shot looped up off a Newhall defender but was cleared after it found the head of their man mountain centre half. Connor Wells replaced an off colour McLean as Stirling looked to gain what would be a vital goal. Extra loomed as the final ten minutes ticked down but Stirling were unable to hold out and it was Newhall who finally got the breakthrough.

After a ball was whipped in from the right the ball was blocked between Flanagan and the opposition striker. With the away side’s right winger breaking free of his man the ball broke kindly into his path and he smashed home to much relief from the Newhall sideline.

Stirling went for broke in the final few minutes bringing on Graeme McCormack for McCall as an aerial threat up front and had one final chance with a free kick which even Chapman came forward for. Unfortunately the goalkeeper claimed the cross leaving Chapman to scamper back as Newhall decided to keep the ball in the corner rather than attempt a Xabi Alonso and have a shot. The final whistle sounded to the delighted and relief of a Newhall side who had a reprieve on a day when the result could have went either way.

Overall Stirling were unable to find an attacking threat to trouble the Newhall side and this is a key area which could affect the rest of the season. While they remain defensively sound, it is the other end of the park that may need some improvement if the Division 2 title is to be claimed.

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Flanagan, Mahoney, Brodie, McLean (Wells), Boyle, McCall (McCormack), Quinn, MacDougall, Betreen Subs: Henderson

Man of the Match: Ryan Mahoney

Robert Gordon Uni 2’s 3 Stirling 2

2011-03-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

Frustration for students as slip-up costs them shot at the title

After such an impressive performance the previous Wednesday against Glasgow 2’s, Stirling wasted their good work as they lost 3-2 in Aberdeen. Missing their coach who was away on international duty, Stirling were forced to take charge themselves and this meant a tough job for Captain Jono Cooper.

Playing on a near perfect Astroturf surface, Stirling could put no blame on the pitch as they started slowly after a 2 and a half hour bus journey. Stirling seemed to be taking a relaxed attitude toward the Aberdeen team and this was pounced upon as RGU pushed forward early. Stirling looked shaky as they failed to keep possession time and again and Ross Chapman was forced to deny the RGU frontman after a deflection had left him with an open goal. Chapman managed to make up the ground to block and give Stirling a let-off which seemed to fire them up.

Stirling took the lead, perhaps unjustly, after 20 minutes. Ryan Lynch cutting inside from the right played a delicate lofted pass over the left back’s head into Jamie McLean’s path. McLean bravely put his body on the line as the goalkeeper came out and the ball trickled into the goal to put the visitors a goal to the good.

However instead of building on their goal Stirling struggled to take the game by the scruff of the neck. Seemingly more concerned with helping each other’s games rather than their own, Stirling’s concentration was not of its usual high standard and this was evident as RGU equalised ten minutes later.

Stirling came out after half-time with a sense of purpose as they looked to impose themselves on the game. Stirling were gaining some joy with MacDougall dropping deeper and feeding the ball wide to Lynch and McLean. Unfortunately the killer ball couldn’t find Chris Betreen or MacDougall in the penalty area and when it did, they found a goalkeeper in fine form.

For all their positive attacking intent Stirling were to go behind around the hour mark. Failing to deal with the striker dropping deep, the RGU forward was able to feed the ball into the right winger’s path. With Curtis Wilson unable to make up the ground, the ball was struck across the helpless Chapman into the opposite corner and Stirling’s title hopes were hanging by a thread.

The visiting side tried to push forward to gain an equaliser but they were struggling to beat a commanding centre half and a keeper who despite his stature was keeping Stirling at bay with a string of fine saves. With 20 minutes left Stirling switched to three at the back with Lynch making way for Tom Flanagan, Graeme Crawford going to left midfield and Cooper providing an aerial option up front.

The next Rory Delap

Flanagan caused himself some embarrassment as with almost his first involvement he managed to commit a foul throw with his throw and chase style of set piece. As Stirling pushed forward it was inevitable that RGU would have chances on the counter and they took advantage with their third goal of the day. With Wilson exposed RGU’s left midfielder cut inside and cut across his shot from 20 yards leaving the unfortunate Chapman to pick the ball out of his net once again.

A deflated Stirling continued to create chances and Betreen was denied by a superb piece of athleticism by the RGU number 1, as he got across his goal to tip the ball over. Cooper was causing problems in the air as Stirling tried to mount a comeback. Crawford was to be denied by another tremendous save as the keeper flicked the ball behind, leaving Crawford disappointed and with a nasty head knock. From the resultant corner, a typical Will Barker delivery allowed Cooper to volley home his first goal of the season and give Stirling hope.

Chances galore filled the final ten minutes as MacDougall, McLean and Crawford all had shots blocked by a resilient defence. They were to be presented with one final chance in stoppage time which fell to Captain Cooper. A tremendous delivery from Mclean was landing on the head of Crawford and Mahoney but with the call from Cooper the ball bounce agonisingly wide. The final whistle called time on a poor performance and with no chance of promotion for yet another season.

Stirling had the chance to put themselves into pole position for the title but by not living up to their usual standards, performance and attitude wise, their league chances were gone for another season. Stirling must learn to concentrate more on their own play rather than others if they are to compete for honours on a Saturday, still being in a league and 2 cups, and with the talent, spirit and determination in the squad it is certainly achievable.

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Wilson, McLean, Boyle (Grieve), Barker, Lynch (Flanagan), MacDougall, Betreen Subs: McCulloch, Wells

Man of the Match: Ross Chapman

p.s. Get a top on Weasley.

Stirling 3 Bo’ness 2

2011-03-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

Cup run continues after determined win

Stirling battled their way through to the next round of the East of Scotland cup after struggling to overcome a stubborn Bo’ness side. Playing in the equivalent of 2 divisions above Stirling, it was a stern test for the students who were looking to continue their fine form over the season.

On a day which showed warm weather football is not far around the corner, Stirling began well as both teams tried to play an expansive, passing game in stark contrast to the normal long ball tactics faced on a Saturday.

Standard Quinny

Having relied on a few players for the majority of their goals this season it was encouraging to see all three goal scorers getting their first goals in Stirling green. Ryan Quinn was the first to achieve this taking advantage of some suspect goalkeeping. Chasing down a ball in behind, the opposing keeper inexplicably tried to clear rather than pick it up and the ball struck Quinn. Maintaining composure he zipped the ball into open goal to put Stirling ahead.

With both teams not in full flow the first half went by without much further incident. Ross Chapman was called into action on occasion but dealt with any effort Bo’ness could muster. The Stirling defence was tested by the short, sharp passing their opposition were playing but the back 5 combined well to snuff any chances out at the last and went into the break with a lead.

Stirling began the second half in similar fashion with the strikers Mikey MacDougall and Jason Bolam linking up tremendously well. It was from this link up that Stirling got the second goal their play deserved. In trademark style MacDougall dropped deep and played a delightful no look pass into Bolam’s path. After a great first touch he slid the ball past the keeper to put Stirling firmly in control.

Man of the Match

Stirling were unable to protect this lead however as they let Bo’ness back into the game with some slack defending. Chapman was left with no chance as the opposition striker took his chance calmly. The lead was almost completely wiped out a minute later as a shaken defence allowed the Bo’ness striker to cut inside and he curled the ball past Chapman onto the crossbar.

Stirling managed to compose themselves and retained their cushion with Ryan Lynch getting off the mark. Superb play down the right ended with MacDougall reaching the by-line and playing a terrific dinked cross to the back post for Lynch to nod home.

Having proved an able deputy to Ross Harkness, Chapman was once again in fine form as Bo’ness pushed for a way back into the game. With Stirling naively pushing too many players forward, they were almost caught out with a long ball counter attack. As the ball broke through leaving a one-on-one with the goalkeeper, Chapman managed to time a sliding tackle to perfection and the chance was saved.

Bo’ness gave the last few minutes meaning with a second goal and cause Stirling nerves to be shaken towards the end. A debateable free kick was whipped into the back post and after it was headed back across, the ball was tapped home to give hope to the visiting side. Stirling managed to see the game out with relative ease as the students maintained their impressive results across the season.

Stirling have made it through to the next round of the East of Scotland cup and have every chance of progressing further if the determination, commitment and goal scoring prowess continues. An away trip to Robert Gordon Uni is next up for the Stirling side and they will be looking to build on this and the previous Wednesday’s result.

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Flanagan, Mahoney, Brodie, McLean, Bews, McCall, Quinn, Bolam, MacDougall Subs: Cooper, Barker, Betreen, Wells

Man of the Match: Mikey MacDougall

Stirling 1 Glasgow Uni 2’s 0

2011-02-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

Stirling defy beautiful game to keep league alive

Made the big time

Stirling threw a self-imposed ban on tricks, flicks and flair in order to keep their promotion hopes alive on a Wednesday. After taking an early lead Stirling were forced into desperate defending with attacking left as an afterthought on a day when the 3 points were vital. Playing under the bright lights of Alloa Athletic’s Recreation Park, the spectators, if there had been any, would not be rushing back to see 70 minutes which the bus was well and truly parked and a combination of resilience, determination and luck ensured the home side took the spoils.

Stirling began well retaining possession and looking suited to the Astroturf surface, having played 3 successive games on similar pitches. Their good start was rewarded with an early goal, which has been few and far between for Stirling as notorious slow starters over the course of the season. Stirling forced a corner and after the ball was headed back out, typical Will Barker delivery found an unmarked Graeme Crawford to nod past the Glasgow keeper and leave Stirling with a lead they wanted, but coming so early perhaps changed the mindset of the team.

After their bright start Stirling were playing some nice football without finding that killer ball in the final third. Success was coming down the left with Curtiss Wilson and Euan McCall combining effectively, with driving runs just stopped at the last time and again. With the lead Stirling craved having arrived, they started to allow Glasgow to have the ball at the back and remain compact. The Glasgow side playing three in the centre meant a hard shift for Boyle and Barker, and Mikey MacDougall was forced to drop deeper to counter the threat leaving the tireless Chris Betreen isolated for much of the game.

12th man

Glasgow were failing to break down a Stirling side who have only conceded 20 goals in 21 games this season, with 8 clean sheets thrown in. The main threat for both teams was coming from set pieces as Glasgow headed over three times when they should have done better, while Crawford couldn’t direct a header at the other end. The half-time whistle sounded with Glasgow on top but Stirling holding firm and anticipating a second half onslaught.

With the massive Stirling support having other business he had to attend to and leaving at half-time, Stirling came out to the intimidating atmosphere of Glasgow’s 4 loyal supporters meaning Fortress Alloa was not in Stirling’s favour. The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with Stirling allowing Glasgow possession and dropping ever deeper as the half wore on. Ross Chapman was called into action as a though ball gave the Glasgow striker a chance but Chapman stayed big to block and the rebound was cleared to safety.

The stats for the game would have made embarrassing reading for a team that tries to play keep ball whenever possible as the visiting side continued to come forward. Cooper and Mahoney were colossal as always and were ably supported by the two fullbacks and an increasingly defensive Boyle. Stirling’s post and nerves were rattled just after the hour as Glasgow inched closer to an equaliser with Glasgow’s winger coming inside and placing his effort just off target after a great lay-off from the frontman.

Ryan Quinn came on to replace MacDougall in an attempt to shore things up further as tired legs began to show for the home side. Chapman was forced to show his shop stopping ability again as a floated ball to the back post was met on the volley but Stirling’s keeper was there to keep the clean sheet intact and further frustrate a side which picked up yellow cards for dissent like they were a scarce half-time wine gum. Desperation was setting in as Glasgow pushed their towering centre back upfront in a last gasp attempt to score what would have been a league winning goal, and he did cause problems in the air although Stirling were getting to the second balls first to clear.

Jamie McLean came on for McCall to add another passenger to the bus that was parked along Stirling’s 18 yard line and he almost made the game safe with a long range effort that the Glasgow keeper did well to hold. One final chance arrived for Glasgow from a corner as time ticked away. A clean header beat Chapman but a weary Crawford hadn’t pushed out off the line and headed to safety. The final few minutes of stoppage time were seen out relatively scare free as Stirling kept their promotion hopes alive.

Wild celebrations

Stirling secured a momentous win which leaves the league title in their own hands with 3 games left. Glasgow never took kindly to the defeat with a substitute seeing red during the game and their captain also forcing the referee into his back pocket with comment after the final whistle. Stirling handled the game with a good attitude and were rewarded with the points as defending proved the way forward. Bo’ness are next up on Saturday in the cup and Stirling will look to take the spirit and elation into the next game.

Man of the Match: Curtis Wilson

Stirling: Chapman, Crawford, Cooper, Mahoney, Wilson, Brodie, Barker, Boyle, McCall (McLean), MacDougall (Quinn), Betreen Subs: McCulloch, Flanagan, Lynch

Lionel Messi- “It was disgraceful. First Rangers in the Champions League and it has continued to grassroots level. Burst the ball.”

Arsene Wenger- “I didn’t see it but Stirling should be ashamed. Almost as bad as Stoke”

Tommy Craig- “Attacking? What’s that? Take 1-0 every week.