Lowland League | It’s a Wonderful Life as Blair wraps up win for Christmas

Posted on Saturday, December 18th, 2021

The Spartans left it late at Broadwood as Blair Henderson wrapped up three points for Christmas with an 85th minute winner against Cumbernauld Colts.

Both teams made their way onto the park from their respective changing areas at different parts of the stadium in this pre-Christmas clash in decidedly seasonal fresh conditions.

The visitors took the game to the hosts from the off with Jamie Dishington looking lively whilst Sean Brown was deemed to be a little too enthusiastic in his aerial clash from a corner which saw the Colts keeper fold like a deckchair under the challenge.

If the first half was a programme from the Festive TV listings, Mrs Brown’s Boys would come to mind. Pretty forgettable and you’d be wishing for what was to follow after would be of enjoyable viewing.

HT: Cumbernauld Colts 0-0 The Spartans

Ten minutes after the interval, the hosts forged open the best chance of the match so far. A long range effort came crashing off Blair Carswell’s crossbar before the rebound was hoofed to safety.

Spartans then made a double change, both Brown’s made way for Jones and Walker as the visitors looked to press for the opener.

Both technical areas would be pleased with their defensive displays however a share of the spoils was unlikely to please either as the scoreboard clock ticked on.

Then, with five minutes left, it was Spartans who broke the deadlock.

Scott Maxwell sent a long free-kick up towards the Colts penalty area which was flicked on into the path of Jamie Dishington.

The playmaker was forced towards the byeline but his trickery allowed him to send in a cross that saw the Colts keeper get more than his tinsel in a tangle, causing him to lose control of the ball and Blair Henderson swooped like a seagull on chips to poke home into the empty net before wheeling away in celebration.

Colts searched for a late comeback however some resolute defence by the hosts and the cool head of Cammy Russell taking the ball for a walk into the corner run down the clock and with that, the full time whistle.

FT: Cumbernauld Colts 0-1 The Spartans