Bo’ness Athletic kicked off the new year in style, securing a spectacular 4-1 triumph on the road against Edinburgh College. Shearer netted twice, supported by MacDonald and Weir, as they clinched three crucial points despite conceding an early goal to the hosts.
The action unfolded at the magnificent Oriam Sports Complex, where the biting cold failed to dampen the spirits for this mid-winter showdown. Bo’ness adorned their all-red away kit, and from the outset, it was clear this encounter would be nothing short of intense.
The match burst into life with fierce challenges echoing through the stadium. In the 10th minute, Shanks exhibited his defensive prowess with a sharp header to clear a dangerous cross into the box. However, the ensuing corner proved troublesome, as Currid could only parry the ball into the path of Edinburgh’s No. 3. Paterson’s deflection found the foot of Edinburgh’s forward and a simple tap in, leaving the hosts in an early lead.
Undeterred, Bo’ness responded relentlessly, and their efforts bore fruit in the 19th minute. Mitchell initiated the play by winning the ball about 25 yards from goal, setting the stage for a delightful passing sequence between MacDonald and Weir. Ultimately, it was Shearer who unleashed a sublime shot into the net, leveling the score.
In the 22nd minute, MacDonald showcased his prowess with a powerful free-kick, met with a diving save from the Edinburgh goalkeeper. However, his persistence paid off three minutes later when he expertly redirected another free-kick into the corner of the net, eluding the keeper’s grasp.
Edinburgh’s custodian continued to impress, denying Robertson’s free-kick outside the box. Weir had a couple of opportunities before halftime, but Edinburgh’s defense held firm, preventing any further breakthroughs.
The first half concluded with Bo’ness holding a slender lead, appearing formidable. The second half commenced with a bang as Bo’ness wasted no time extending their advantage. Snedden orchestrated a move down the left, setting up Robertson, whose low-driven shot tested the keeper. Weir pounced on the rebound, guiding the ball into the net to make it 3-1.
The game settled into a brief lull, interrupted only by Robertson’s 62nd-minute attempt from the edge of the box, deflected out for a corner. Edinburgh sought to mount a comeback, with a long-range effort requiring Currid’s acrobatics to keep the advancing striker at bay.
Bo’ness dominated proceedings, with Weir, Robertson, and Simpson all testing the Edinburgh defense. A red card was brandished in the 75th minute, with Leon Graham receiving his marching orders (second yellow) after a clash involving Bo’ness’ halted Currid, who, displeased with the challenge, received a yellow card for his part in the altercation.
In the 84th minute, the match was effectively put to bed as Simpson surged down the left wing, linking up with Shearer in a one-two. Shearer’s exquisite curling shot struck the far post before nestling in the net, securing his second goal of the match.
The final whistle confirmed Bo’ness Athletic’s dominance, coupled with other weekend results, extending their lead at the summit to a commanding 10 points, with a game in hand over second-placed Armadale Thistle. A resounding victory that cements Bo’ness’s status as the team to beat in the league.
Final Score: Edinburgh College 1 – 4 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 15
Match Highlights
