Mike says –

“We thought it was going to be hard work yesterday and that’s just how it turned out. Gretna haven’t lost away from home this season (and a good bit more) and being a couple of players short (suspension) they started the game in a cagey, defensive 4 5 1 formation.  We on the other hand (using the same set up) pushed our wide men forward and got Gavin Malin up beside Keith McLeod as often as possible. We started on the front foot and went close 2 or 3 times with Gavin crashing one off the bar midway through the first half. Gretna grew in confidence as the half progressed and as the impressive Phil Storey got a little more support the away team forced 3 or 4 corners as half-time approached.

Sam and I changed the shape of the side during the interval and it was a question of telling the boys to pass the ball a little bit quicker and to use the width of the park. I thought we took control of the game in the second half but Conor Grant was inspired in the Gretna goal while “Fernando” McLeod was having one of those days. Omar hit the post and Gavin fired more than one dangerous cross in from the right. Sam and I very, very rarely don’t use any of our substitutions but being one up and with the game so finely balanced, we decided not to change anything yesterday. 

The game was won on two penalties. I didn’t see Donal Henretty going over for the first as I was watching the ball arrive at Gavin’s feet for a hit at goal. The second in injury time looked more clear cut and Gavin put his foot through both in a manner which pleased both his co-managers. We had some big performances and Ali MacKinnon rightly got MOM after a great shut-out for the back 5. Chris Anderson and John Grant continue to impress in central midfield and overall Sam and I were pleased by our passing play and commitment to the cause. Gretna are a very good side and we picked up 3 very valuable points towards trying to retain our Premier Division title.

We now turn our attention to a cup visit to Saughton Enclosure on Wednesday. Let’s hope for our and Lothian’s sake Edinburgh Council have turned their attention to rolling the pitch and cutting the grass. We live in hope.”

Mike