A vital 3 points in a 3 goal game

Posted on Saturday, May 4th, 2013

Spartans had to come from behind to claim a vital 2-1 victory at home to Preston Athletic.

The wild wind sweeping across the pitch was causing both teams issues however it was Preston who we’re in control of the opening.

Robbie McArthur saw his shot from outside the box curl just over the bar before Spartans keeper Ross Gilpin made an excellent point blank save to deny Gary McCormack just moment after. At the other end John Gilbertson made an excellent save from a Kevin Motion strike from outside the box.

Preston opened the scoring in the 33rd minute when Dale O’Hara’s cross, aided by the wind, flew over Ross Gilpin and into the far top corner.

Willie Bremner had the best chance of the first half for Spartans. He broke free in the box however saw his shot hit the post and bounce clear.

Spartans started the second half better however struggled to convert their possession into clear scoring chances. Manager Dougie Samuel brought on Andy Martin midway through the half and he helped turn the game.

It was Martin who scored the equaliser after 75 minutes. Willie Bremner’s strike was blocked by a defender and the ball fell at the feet of Martin who poked the ball home.

Spartans took the lead in the 78th minute. A long ball from John Grant was well controlled by Willie Bremner. He knocked the ball down for himself and blasted it past the keeper from 16 yards out.

Preston pushed forward looking for an equaliser but their challenge was made harder when Darren Darling was shown a straight red for a late lunging tackle on Andy Martin and Spartans held on for the important win.

Malt & Hops Man of the Match: Willie Bremner – a great hard working performance from Willie as he caused the Preston defenders problems all afternoon. It was his hard work which helped create the equaliser and a brilliant strike from him for the winner.

Spartans: Gilpin, Manson, Cennerazzo, Sivewright, MacKinnon, Grant, Bremner, Whatley (Beesley), Henretty (Martin), McLeod, Motion Unused: MacCuish, Seeley, Ferguson