Lowland League | Allan turns key moment into Play-off place

Posted on Saturday, April 8th, 2023

A second half strike by Mikey Allan earned Spartans a narrow 0-1 victory away to Tranent and earn his side a spot in the Pyramid Play-offs. 

It was a first half for the purists at Forester Park as neither keeper were particularly troubled as both sides became embroiled in a war of attrition under the East Lothian sunshine. 

A fine turnout by Spartan Army travelling support got behind their team from the off however there were no goals to cheer about come the interval. 

The best chance of the half fell to Cammy Russell, who once again felt the force of a challenge or two during the game that on another day may have seen tickets issued. 

Russell latched on to a through ball but he couldn’t bring it under control enough to trouble the keeper. 

HT Tranent 0-0 The Spartans 

Spartans started lively in the second and had two chances in quick succession. 

A long throw by Cammy Russell was nodded on by Jordan Tapping to Blair Henderson who nodded just wide. 

Then the same man was inches away when a cross into the box from Jamie Dishington found Henderson but the big man could only scoop over.

Then, in the 63rd minute, a cross into the box found Mikey Allan in the middle of a goalmouth melee and he swung his boot and sent the ball home to give the Spartans the lead. 

Sean Brown then replaced Rhys Armstrong and as both sides knocked the ball back and forth, Tranent to find a way through the resolute Spartans defence whilst the visitors looking to squeeze out the remaining minutes.

Ian McFarland then replaced Blair Henderson as Spartans shut out shop and sealed the Play-off spot.

FT: Tranent Juniors 0-1 The Spartans