Hopes of a county showdown are shattered by two defeats

Aug 21 2008 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

HOPES that last night’s clash between Bellshill and Thorniewood United could have been a Section Three decider were shattered after leaders Petershill clocked up 1-0 wins over both clubs.

Bellshill were turned over last Wednesday despite Petershill being down to nine men, while Thorniewood succumbed on Saturday.

Disappointed Bellshill boss Tam McDonald said after the defeat:

“We played reasonably well at Petershill.

“They scored against the run of play but we just couldn’t get a break in front of goal.

“It was a bit disappointing, especially as they had a man sent off in the first half, and another in the second.”

However, he was pleased with Saturday’s 3-1 win at Shettleston.

McDonald said: “At Shettleston we dominated proceedings from the word ‘go’ and created a lot of chances throughout the game.

“We played some nice football in the first half and went in 1-0 up, with goals from Paul McBride and John Boyle in the second half.”

Blantyre Vics clocked up their first win in three Section Four games with a 1-0 win over East Kilbride Thistle.

Teenager Daniel Smith netted what proved to be the winner from a Gary Espener pass in 20 minutes.

Boss Willie Harvey threw the gauntlet down to his stuttering stars and said:

“With no chance to win the section I made six changes and told the guys ‘prove you're good enough to be at the club.

“The players who have played in the past two games have proved their worth as far as I am concerned.”