Thorniewood enjoy sweet taste of revenge as they win seven-goal thriller and go third

Oct 16 2008 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

PROMOTED Thorniewood United settled a few scores when they beat Vale of Leven 4-3, propelling them into third spot in the Central League First Division.

Vale were something of a ‘bogey’ side for United last term, ultimately pipping them to the championship.

Delighted co-boss John Stevenson said: “It was a superb result for us. They pipped us to the championship last season so it was good to win at their place.

“It was a great three points and we’re delighted at the way things are going.”

United came from behind three times before snatching a late winner. Stephen Mullen hit the first equaliser, Martin Daly netted the second with a ‘training ground’ move, and Des Bradsaw made it 3-3.

Mullen snatched the winner, bringing his goals tally to six in eight days, but it was the contribution from goal-maker Eddie Logan that had his manager in jubilant mood.

He said: “It’s amazing what Eddie can do with the ball at throw-ins – it’s as good as a corner. The Vale keeper came out for a throw-in, missed it completely, and Steph was there to tuck it away.”

The downside was an injury to defender Stewart McCormack who was whisked of to Vale of Leven Hospital with a gash in his chin which required five stitches.

High-flying Thorniewood head for Lesmahagow who are still chasing their first league win of the season.

Former striker Jim Moore has rejoined the ’Gow pack and two trialists – goalkeeper Stewart Wilson from Queen’s Park and striker Scott Donald from a local amateur outfit – have also signed.

In the Second Division Carluke Rovers beat St Roch’s 2-0.

Wishaw, minus long-term crocks Kevin Duddy and Darrell Crawford, injured Davie Bell, Gary Richardson (work commitments), and Craig McLaughlan (personal reasons), went a goal behind from the spot within two minutes and conceded a second after the break as Greenock ran out 2-0 winners.

Manager Alex Young said: “I thought what was probably the better football team lost, but it’s goals that win games and we failed to score.”

Newmains conceded an early goal and a second-half penalty in the 3-1 defeat at Glasgow Perthshire, with James Kean scoring for the local side.

“We made it hard for ourselves,” admitted manager Ian Rankin.

“It was all down to individual errors, but what made it more disappointing for me was the manner in which we lost – a lack of hunger, passion and desire let us down.

“We have some good individual players but it’s just not happening as a team.”

Saturday is derby day with Newmains at Wishaw Sports Centre.

The clubs drew 2-2 in their Sectional League Cup tie earlier this season.