East of Scotland Second Division – Page 3 – Bo'ness Athletic Football Club

Dalkeith Thistle v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

In a thrilling showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bo’ness showcased their firepower with a spectacular first-half onslaught, claiming a well-deserved victory against Dalkeith Thistle. A whirlwind three-minute spell saw the away team secure a resounding 5-3 win, leaving the opponents reeling from the relentless attacking prowess.

Right from kick-off, Bo’ness dominated proceedings, keeping Dalkeith on the back foot throughout the opening 45 minutes. Robertson came close to breaking the deadlock early on, unleashing a right-footed effort that narrowly missed the mark. The relentless pressure continued as M. Weir and MacDonald probed the opposition’s defense, threatening with close attempts.

However, the breakthrough arrived in the 16th minute when Bo’ness won a corner. Robertson’s astute vision found Mitchell unmarked, delivering a precision cross into the box met by Woodburn’s thunderous header, sending the away crowd into a frenzy as Bo’ness surged ahead 1-0. Moments later, Ogilvie doubled the lead, capitalizing on a clever play by Godwin and MacDonald, firmly planting the ball into the net.

The onslaught persisted as M. Weir capitalized on a defensive error, coolly slotting home from close range, securing a commanding 3-0 lead within minutes. Bo’ness continued their relentless assault, with Robertson orchestrating play and threatening the opposition’s goal.

The momentum swung further in Bo’ness’s favour as M. Weir capitalized on Robertson’s well-crafted delivery, netting a fourth goal before Dalkeith managed to claw one back through a thunderous strike from their no. 8.

The defining moment arrived just before halftime when Godwin earned a penalty but found himself embroiled in controversy, receiving a red card for a retaliatory flick. Nonetheless, Robertson calmly converted the penalty, stretching Bo’ness’s lead to 5-1 at the break.

The second half saw a reshuffle for Bo’ness, forced to adapt to a defensive substitution as Irvine introduced Simpson for MacDonald, with Mitchell dropping deeper in midfield. Down to ten men, Bo’ness faced an uphill battle as Dalkeith pressed hard, clawing back two goals early in the half through clinical finishing.

Despite Dalkeith’s resurgence and numerous attempts on goal, Bo’ness held firm, weathering the storm with goalkeeper Currid showcasing acrobatic saves and fortune favouring the visitors as Dalkeith struck the post. The final whistle sounded, marking a game of two halves—a sensational first-half blitz securing victory, followed by a challenging second half that tested Bo’ness’s resilience.

In a turn of events post-match, an appeal by Bo’ness led to the Scottish FA Judicial Panel overturning Godwin’s red card, reducing it to a caution, ensuring his availability for the upcoming home clash against Coldstream.

The thrilling encounter remains a testament to Bo’ness’s attacking prowess and resilience, setting the stage for more electrifying performances in the games to come.

Final Score: Dalkeith Thistle 3 – 5 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 13

Bo’ness Athletic v Thornton Hibs (League)

Burntisland Shipyard v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

In a poignant prelude to the game, Burntisland and Bo’ness set the stage by observing a minute’s silence in honour of Remembrance Day. Against the stunning backdrop of the Burntisland Hills and a clear blue sky, the stage was set for a thrilling contest.

The whistle’s shrill cry marked the beginning, accompanied by the fervent beats of the young Burntisland Ultras’ drums, resonating through the air for the next hour and 45 minutes. What ultimately unfolded was another solid performance with Bo’ness leaving Burntisland in their wake, clinching victory on a heavy pitch and proving their mettle away from home.

Managerial decisions brought Paterson into the fold due to Sharples’ injury, and R. Weir commenced the game in front of MacDonald, setting the stage for a captivating clash.

In the initial exchanges, Burntisland seemed the livelier side, with three quick corners that Bo’ness adeptly defended. A subsequent cross-cum-shot posed little threat to the vigilant Currid.

Bo’ness’s Robertson, known for his explosive runs down the left, sought to make an impact, but a blocked low pass resulted in a corner. Burntisland, however, had an early long-range attempt in the 9th minute, sailing wide of Currid’s left post.

The 13th minute brought the breakthrough for Bo’ness, orchestrated by the unstoppable Robertson. Roaring down the left, he delivered a precise pass to the surging Ogilvie, who met the ball with finesse, dispatching it into the net with a leap over the diving keeper.

Just before half-time, Bo’ness doubled their lead from a Robertson free-kick. R. Weir’s well-timed forward run culminated in a chest-high header that sailed past the Burntisland keeper, further solidifying Bo’ness’s control.

As the second half commenced, Burntisland sought a resurgence. Their no.9 made a spirited attempt in the box, but Currid was untested as the ball skidded wide.

In the 49th minute, Robertson unleashed a ferocious shot from the edge of the 18-yard box, prompting a swift reaction from the Burntisland keeper, who deflected the ball high over the bar. Robertson’s impressive display concluded as MacDonald stepped in on the 52nd minute.

Ogilvie showcased his skill with deft footwork, outmanoeuvring the keeper and delivering a tantalising cross into the 6-yard box. MacDonald’s inches-away header narrowly missed adding to the score line.

MacDonald didn’t have to wait long for redemption. Three minutes later, in a seamless play between MacDonald and R. Weir, MacDonald danced past a sliding defender, cutting the ball onto his right foot before launching a low-driven shot into the corner, leaving defenders and goalkeeper sprawled on the turf.

The points secured, the game meandered towards its conclusion, notable only for M. Weir’s tantalising run into the box, resulting in an acutely angled shot that veered away for a throw-in.

On the 74th minute, R. Weir made way for defender Simpson, granting him valuable playing time.

As the final whistle sounded, only a minute and 15 seconds of added time had transpired. Burntisland, known for their resilience at home, found themselves thwarted in the face of Bo’ness’s steely defence, spearheaded by the indomitable Currid, who once again secured a clean sheet.

Burntisland may be a tricky adversary on their home turf, but Bo’ness emerged triumphant, displaying tactical finesse, offensive prowess, and defensive resilience. The respect rightfully extends to the Bo’ness defence, who played an instrumental role in yet another shutout, a testament to their consistency and the outstanding goalkeeping prowess of Currid this season.

Final Score: Burntisland Shipyard 0 – 3 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 12

Bo’ness Athletic v Edinburgh College (League)

Stirling University v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

In a gruelling clash at Stirling Uni, Bo’ness faced their first league defeat this season amid a rain-laden night. The strong wind, from right to left, added to the misery of the evening.

Bo’ness’s backline saw a makeshift setup, with R. Weir shifted from midfield to right-back, Simpson on the left , and Mitchell and the loaned talent, Wright, holding the fort in the middle.

At kick-off, Bo’ness held the wind advantage, and within a mere 94 seconds, they drew first blood. A brilliant clearance from Mackay found M. Weir on the right, just past the halfway line. R. Weir, now on defensive duty, embarked on a lung-busting run, delivered a crisp, low cross into the box, where MacDonald awaited, calmly slotting a left-footed effort past the Stirling Uni keeper from six yards.

MacDonald later attempted a long-range strike, following a deft header from Robertson, but his effort narrowly missed the target, just past the left post.

Moments after, Robertson won a free-kick from a rough challenge about 25 yards out. His attempt, however, posed no threat and sailed past the post.

A promising move by Stirling Uni saw MacKay dispossessed after a good pass by their no. 8, setting up their no. 9 for a shot from the edge of the 18-yard area, comfortably gathered by Bo’ness’s keeper, Currid.

A swift sequence initiated by a short corner from Robertson found its way to R. Weir, who delivered a tantalising cross. The unmarked Shearer met it with his head but couldn’t direct it on target, leaving it to sail agonisingly past the post once more.

Snedden showcased his skills, threading a sublime pass to M. Weir through a cluster of Stirling players. M. Weir surged down the left flank and whipped in a low-driven cross to Shearer, lurking just inside the six-yard box. A last-ditch sliding tackle from the Stirling defender cleared the danger to safety.

Another beautiful play unfolded on the left between Robertson and Shearer, resulting in a shot from Robertson, but yet again, a well-timed tackle deflected the ball into the keeper’s grateful arms.

As the half-hour mark approached, Bo’ness squandered their best chance to double their lead. A clever one-two between M. Weir and MacDonald saw Weir penetrate the box, ready to unleash a left-footed strike destined for the net. However, a superb save by the Stirling Uni keeper, who blocked the shot with his left foot, kept Bo’ness at bay.

Robertson was next to test the keeper’s mettle, winning a header down the left. A fortunate bounce allowed him to enter the box and fire a shot, but the keeper thwarted his efforts once more, smothering the ball.

A mesmerising twist by M. Weir left his marker bemused, enabling him to set up Shearer for a long-range effort from 25 yards out. The keeper, well-positioned, managed to tip the ball over the bar.

The first half concluded with Bo’ness ruing their missed opportunities to seize a commanding lead.

The second half commenced under equally dire weather conditions, this time favouring Stirling Uni. It proved a scrappy affair, with both sides struggling to control the ball on the slippery artificial turf, a consequence of the persistent rain.

In the 77th minute, Bo’ness finally threatened in the second half. A long ball over the top by MacKay reached Robertson on the flank. He exhibited fine control and skilfully manoeuvred towards the keeper. Although he managed to round the keeper, the referee ruled the ball had crossed the touchline before his subsequent pass to Shearer, disallowing the goal and awarding a goal kick.

A mere minute later, Stirling Uni celebrated an equalizer. A long pass from their own half found the Stirling no. 11 on the left flank. As R. Weir moved in to challenge, an unfortunate slip left the Stirling striker with ample time to line up a shot from approximately 23 yards out. Although Currid dove valiantly, he couldn’t quite reach the curling effort, and the ball nestled into the back of the net.

Frustration and despondency crept into Bo’ness, prompting the manager to introduce Ogilvie in place of MacDonald. In the 81st minute, they lodged a strong penalty claim when R. Weir appeared to be bundled to the ground inside the box, but the referee remained unmoved.

Stirling Uni seized the initiative in the final 10 minutes, threatening to take the lead. A loose ball in the box ventured perilously close to the penalty spot but ultimately trickled past the post, serving as a potent warning to Bo’ness.

One minute later, they paid the ultimate price. A throw-in, merely six yards from the goal line, was lofted into the box, finding the head of Stirling Uni’s no. 5, who directed it towards the Stirling no. 11, positioned approximately 16 yards out. He elegantly curled a shot into the top right-hand corner, leaving Currid with no chance of stopping it.

Bo’ness endeavored to find the equalizer, but time was not on their side. The referee’s whistle sounded, concluding the match with five minutes of added time.

An encouraging note from the game was the impressive performance of newcomer Wright, who joined on a short-term loan from Broxburn Athletic. Bo’ness now gears up for their upcoming clash against Arniston Rangers in the semi-final of the Alex Jack Cup.

Final Score: Stirling University 2 – 1 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 10

Bo’ness Athletic v Tweedmouth Rangers (League)

In another league clash with Tweedmouth Rangers, Bo’ness emerged victorious, securing back-to-back wins in a match that saw an early taste of winter with chilling winds. Nevertheless, the adverse conditions failed to dampen the team’s performance, with four goals courtesy of Robertson, Shearer, M. Weir, and Ogilvie comfortably sealing victory.

Unlike the previous fixture, where Bo’ness conceded an early goal, this time they stood resolute, with two early chances falling to Robertson. In the opening minute, Robertson unleashed a low shot from outside the box, but it went straight at the keeper, who scooped up the effort. M. Weir then played a pass out to R. Weir on the right-hand side of the box, who squared it back to Robertson as he made a diagonal run across. However, his right-footed shot was blocked by the Tweedmouth defence and subsequently cleared.

Tweedmouth came close to a spectacular goal in the ninth minute when a cutback from the far right was met with a first-time shot from 20 yards out. Only the bar, possibly assisted by a fingertip save from Currid, denied the Tweedmouth player a remarkable strike.

In the tenth minute, Shearer appeared to have put Bo’ness ahead when he lofted the ball over the keeper into the net. Unfortunately, the celebration was cut short by an early offside whistle. Robertson attempted to break the deadlock once more from about 20 yards out, but this time his shot sailed high and wide of the target.

Not to be discouraged, Robertson, under similar circumstances, dribbled into the 18-yard box, cut back onto his right foot, and dispatched a shot into the net, at the keeper’s near post. It was a quintessential Robertson goal, showcasing his skills in the race for the club’s top scorer this season.

Shearer, keen to continue his prolific goal-scoring form, had a chance shortly after, outpacing the last defender. However, when faced with only the keeper to beat, his attempt appeared to come off his shin, resulting in a goal kick.

In the 18th minute, good work down the right from R. Weir saw him fake a pass, check back, and pick out M. Weir. With just a single touch, M. Weir guided the ball past the stranded keeper from six yards out.

Next, it was Shearer’s opportunity to get on the scoresheet, as he found himself unmarked inside the six-yard box during a corner. Unfortunately, his header lacked the necessary height and sailed over the bar. However, he rectified the situation 30 seconds later, making it 3-0. Shearer took a pass with his back to goal, deftly beat his marker, and fired an unstoppable right-footed shot past the Tweedmouth keeper.

Ryan Weir, this time on the left, delivered a cross-cum-shot that narrowly missed the far post. Notably, a penalty shout was missedn by the referee, who apparently did not see the apparent stamp on Weir by a Tweedmouth defender immediately after the shot.

The fourth goal arrived when Ogilvie, stationed at the back post, took advantage of a couple of deflected efforts from Robertson. Eventually, the ball fell to R. Weir, who laid off a pass to Mitchell. He lofted a pinpoint cross to Ogilvie at the far post, who emphatically slammed it home, marking Bo’ness’s final goal of the game.

Ogilvie had another chance to add to his tally, but he sent his shot just wide of the keeper’s far post. Robertson had the final opportunity of the first half with a free-kick from distance, but his effort sailed a few feet over the bar.

In the second half, Ogilvie was replaced by club captain MacKay. Tweedmouth looked to make their mark early, displaying good build-up play that led to a lay-off and a long-range shot from outside the box. However, the shot blazed well over the bar.

In the 62nd minute, Robertson, after taking a knock, made way for striker McAteer. Moments later, MacKay attempted his trademark long-distance strike from a layoff following a free-kick. However, his effort failed to trouble the Tweedmouth keeper.

The match took an unexpected turn when Bo’ness was reduced to ten men. Woodburn, typically reliable in defence, found himself shown the red card. A long ball heading towards the Bo’ness goal seemed comfortably handled by Woodburn. However, he collided with goalkeeper Currid, sending him to the ground. The loose ball was quickly scooped up by the Tweedmouth striker. Woodburn, seemingly, placed an arm over his shoulder and dragged him down, leading to the immediate awarding of a penalty and red card

The resulting penalty kick was calmly dispatched, sending Currid the wrong way, bringing the score to 4-1.

With Bo’ness down to ten men but with three points secured, Tweedmouth displayed a stronger performance in the second half, gaining greater control of the game. Nevertheless, the points had already been wrapped up in the first half.

Tweedmouth, despite their determined efforts, have proved to be challenging opponents over the two games. It is remarkable that they have yet to secure a single point this season. Bo’ness have now extended their lead at the top to eight points, with a game in hand over second and third place in the league.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 4 – 1 Tweedmouth Rangers
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 9

Edinburgh United v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

Tweedmouth Rangers v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

Bo’ness continued their impressive league campaign with yet another victory, this time south of the border in England, ensuring their unblemished record remained intact. It has become customary for Bo’ness to find the net and this match was no exception, with Shearer, MacDonald, and Robertson notching up five goals between them.

Surprisingly, the game didn’t start perfectly for Bo’ness, as Tweedmouth seized an early opportunity. Just one minute into the match, a deep cross prompted Shanks to step out, but Tweedmouth’s No. 7 timed his run to perfection. He met the cross and calmly side-footed a low shot past the helpless Currid. It was a remarkable start for Tweedmouth, who had yet to secure a single point in the league this season.

Tweedmouth had an opportunity to double their lead just two minutes later, with a cutback and a shot from the edge of the 18-yard box sailing high over the bar.

Following this, Tweedmouth’s chances in the first half were scarce, as Bo’ness upped their game and took control of proceedings.

For the next 20 minutes, Bo’ness launched an unrelenting assault. The first chance came from a free-kick by Ryan Robertson, which floated to the back post. The Tweedmouth goalkeeper managed to get a fingertip to it, deflecting it past the post, preventing Simpson from heading it home. Robertson had another attempt moments later, cutting back to the corner of the 18-yard box and unleashing a low shot towards the keeper’s near post, but the keeper gathered it comfortably.

Main then delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, finding Shearer unmarked, but he agonizingly steered his header wide of the post. In a similar situation, Main once again provided a precise pass across the goal towards Shearer, but this time the Tweedmouth defence managed to clear it for a corner with a sliding challenge.

From the ensuing corner, Robertson floated a cross to the edge of the six-yard box, where Paterson rose for a header but couldn’t direct it enough, sending it upwards and over the bar.

Finally, Bo’ness’s relentless pressure paid off as they were awarded a corner. Robertson delivered the ball to the back post again, where Simpson headed it back across the goal for Shearer to side-foot it home from a mere yard out.

Just three minutes later, Bo’ness took the lead. Simpson dashed down the left flank to collect the ball and found an unmarked MacDonald in the box. MacDonald had all the time he needed to launch a wicked left-footed shot high into the top left-hand corner of the net.

With Main now operating on the left, he received a pass and delivered an inch-perfect ball to MacDonald, who was once again unmarked on the right-hand side of the six-yard box. MacDonald took a touch and fired home a right-footed shot, extending Bo’ness’s lead. The first half concluded with a scoreline of 3-1 in Bo’ness’s favour.

Prior to this match, Bo’ness had been averaging slightly over four goals per game in the league. As the second half commenced, Bo’ness sought to add to their tally. However, Tweedmouth had the first chance of the final 45 minutes with a shot from the right, but the No. 3 blazed it high over the bar.

Robertson was determined to get his name on the scoresheet, blasting a shot over from close range a minute later. He followed it up with a turn and shot, but the attempt was straight at the keeper, who easily held it.

In the 56th minute, Main advanced down the right-hand side, entered the box, and appeared to be brought down by the keeper. However, the referee saw no foul.

Shearer then had an opportunity to extend Bo’ness’s lead, meeting a low cross into the box but failing to steer the ball into the net, narrowly sending it wide of the far post.

Finally, Robertson was rewarded for his persistence, receiving a well-executed pass from Shearer and calmly side-footing a shot past the keeper in the 59th minute.

Bo’ness appealed for another penalty when M. Weir seemed to be sandwiched between two Tweedmouth players in the six-yard box while collecting a loose ball. However, the referee remained unmoved.

Tweedmouth, displaying commendable resilience, managed to pull a goal back in the 73rd minute. The No. 20 demonstrated great footwork as he entered the Bo’ness box, feigned a shot to send the keeper to the ground, and slotted the ball into the net with composure.

Two minutes later, Meechan had a golden opportunity to seal the game, meeting a Main cross from the left but firing a shot over the bar from seven yards out.

Robertson, in search of his second goal of the match, had a close-range shot blocked by the diving keeper. However, he quickly made amends by receiving a short pass from Meechan in the box. From approximately 16 yards out, he took a touch and fired a shot, from a stanging position, into the bottom right-hand corner, a strike that left the keeper with no chance.

Bo’ness had one final chance as Main entered the box, firing a left-footed shot towards goal. However, the Tweedmouth No. 5 managed to deflect it past the post.

This fixture marked Bo’ness’s furthest away trip, but they returned with three well-deserved points. Bottom-of-the-league Tweedmouth demonstrated resilience and scored two impressive goals. However, once Bo’ness gained the lead, the outcome appeared never in doubt.

Final Score: Tweedmouth Rangers 2 – 5 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 8

Bo’ness Athletic v Peebles Rovers (League)

Bo’ness continued their league campaign in impressive fashion, securing a 5-1 triumph over Peebles Rovers. The result extended their lead at the top of the table to a commanding five points, with the added bonus of a game in hand. Two goals each from Robertson and Shearer, along with a late strike from substitute McAteer, ensured that Bo’ness maintained their flawless record, having secured maximum points from all seven league fixtures.

In the early stages of the match, Peebles Rovers proved to be a tough nut to crack, with Bo’ness struggling to find a breakthrough. However, their persistence paid off after 15 minutes when the prolific Robertson opened the scoring. Main initiated a move with a run into the box and a shot that forced a save from the goalkeeper’s feet. The rebound fell to Shearer, who demonstrated exceptional composure in the box, setting up Main once more. Despite Main’s effort being deflected, it landed perfectly for Robertson just outside the six-yard box. He struck a shot into the ground, causing it to bounce over the helpless goalkeeper and into the net.

Not to be outdone, Peebles launched an immediate counter-attack. Their No. 6 unleashed a shot from the edge of the D, requiring Currid to be alert and make a diving save to palm the ball over the bar.

The match then entered a fairly evenly balanced spell with both sides battling for control. MacDonald exhibited his trademark close ball control, driving into the box, but the Peebles defence held firm, blocking his shot before clearing the danger.

In a remarkable moment of skill, MacDonald, on the goal linem, with the ball seemingly glued to his feet, dinked it up past two opponents from a standing position. He then circumvented them, collected the ball, and delivered a short pass to Shearer. With precision, Shearer left-footed the ball past the stranded goalkeeper.

Just five minutes later, a long ball from the right found Shearer in a wide position. Despite the acute angle, he met the ball on the half-volley and dispatched it into the net. Bo’ness were firmly in control, with 35 minutes on the clock.

Peebles mounted a late first-half threat, with Shanks required to clear a dangerous cross for a corner in the 38th minute. From the ensuing corner, the ball eventually arrived back in the danger zone, appearing to strike Sharples and threaten Currid’s goal. However, Currid scrambled to his goal line, managing to scoop the ball away, preventing a Peebles goal.

Shearer, eager to replicate his previous hat-trick heroics, had another attempt shortly after. He collected the ball at the edge of the 18-yard box, executed a diagonal run, and fired a shot towards the goal. However, it posed no real trouble for the goalkeeper.

Just before the half-time whistle, a free-kick into the box found Shearer at the back post. He laid the ball off to Snedden, who had advanced into the box amd struck a first-time shot into the side netting.

The second half saw M. Weir and R. Weir take the field, replacing Turnbull and MacDonald.

Peebles had a couple of opportunities to claw their way back into the match following the break, but neither effort seriously tested Currid.

In the 57th minute, Bo’ness played a corner directly to Paterson in the box, who connected well with the ball. However, it somehow ran out of play past the post.

Peebles came close to pulling one back four minutes later when a ball played across goal found an unmarked player about ten yards out. His ferocious shot struck the post before being cleared to safety.

Chances continued to flow for both teams, with Main delivering a deep cross from the left to Robertson, whose header narrowly missed the target. A minute later, Robertson fired a shot wide of the left-hand post following a well-orchestrated combination between him and Shearer.

In the 65th minute, Mitchell was forced to leave the field due to a head injury sustained while attempting a clearance. Simpson stepped in as his replacement.

Peebles finally reaped the rewards of their perseverance with a superb strike from the corner of the 18-yard box. The player made the execution appear effortless, lofting the ball over Currid and into the top corner of the net.

On the 75th minute, Shearer and Main made way for substitutes Meechan and McAteer.

Five minutes later, Robertson once again demonstrated his prowess. He latched onto a through ball, outpaced the defence, and confidently dispatched it beyond the goalkeeper, taking his season’s goal tally to an impressive 16 goals in competitive matches.

With five minutes remaining, Robertson narrowly missed with a header from a free-kick. Then, McAteer had a header expertly palmed over the bar by the Peebles goalkeeper. Finally, with a sweet left-footed strike at the near post, McAteer concluded the match with a 5-1 result.

Credit must be given to Peebles for putting up a determined fight throughout the fixture. Nevertheless, Bo’ness displayed their superior strength and quality across the park, with their goal tally continuing to rise.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 5 – 1 Peebles Rovers
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 7

Armadale Thistle v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

Bo’ness faced a formidable challenge at Volunteer Park, where a goal in each half earned them a vital three points in a gruelling league clash.

Bo’ness kicked off the match brightly, donning their striking all-red strip. Early on, Robertson cut inside at the edge of the 18-yard box, but his shot narrowly missed the right-hand post. Moments later, MacDonald laid off a pass to MacKay, who attempted an audacious shot from 30 yards out, only to send it soaring high above the bar.

The first goal of the game arrived on the 8th minute mark when M. Weir outpaced a defender and latched onto a lofted pass through the middle. Despite the keeper’s valiant attempt to block the shot with his left foot, the ball deflected straight to MacDonald, who executed a sublime left-footed strike into the right corner of the net.

Armadale had their initial chance of the game when a cross into the box was parried down by Currid, but Mitchell was quick to clear the danger.

Robertson then unleashed a wild shot across the goal, but no Bo’ness player was there to capitalize.
The pressure from Bo’ness remained relentless and on the 13th minute, Robertson made a sharp run down the left flank, cutting back to find M. Weir, whose shot was expertly saved by the Armadale keeper, deflecting it out for a corner.
Bo’ness had a strong appeal for a penalty a few minutes later when R. Weir delivered a cross into the box. The Armadale No.5 seemed to raise his arms and push MacDonald inside the box, but the referee wasn’t interested.

Outstanding defending from Sharples in the 35th minute denied Armadale an equalizer as he blocked a pass from Armadale’s No. 10 to the onrushing striker in the Bo’ness box.

Shortly thereafter, M. Weir’s header sailed just wide of the keeper’s far post following a cross into the box from Snedden.

As half-time approached, Armadale gained momentum and had two opportunities. The first came from a corner, with Paterson rising highest to clear, and moments later, he made a crucial tackle inside the box to thwart Armadale’s No. 9.

The teams headed into half-time with Bo’ness leading 1-0, and MacDonald made way for Main as the second half commenced.
Armadale had the first chance of the second half when their No. 9 played a ball across the front of goal, narrowly missing the connection with their No. 8.

In the 53rd minute, McInnes substituted on for M. Weir, and Armadale found themselves a man down due to a player raising his hands.
Simpson won a header just outside the box, and Main picked up the ball, rolling a pass towards the penalty spot for R. Weir, who unleashed a side-footed shot towards goal, only to be denied by a fantastic save from the keeper.

A deep cross into the Bo’ness box caused problems, but their No. 2 failed to make a proper connection, squandering a chance.

Despite several attempts, it wasn’t Robertson’s day, as he missed two opportunities within three minutes inside the box.
McInnes won a tussle with Armadale’s No. 2 at the corner flag, running into the box with the ball. His low-driven effort forced the keeper to dive towards his near post, guiding it out for a corner.
Robertson then cut back on the 18-yard box, curling a shot that hit the bar and went over.
Paterson, aiming to increase his tally of headed goals, had his effort saved by the keeper, and the ball smashed off the bar, denying him another goal.
Bo’ness won a free-kick 23 yards out, and McInnes struck a low shot past the wall, but the keeper reacted quickly, steering it just wide of the post.

In the 85th minute, Snedden made way for Turnbull.

During the final five minutes, Bo’ness endured a scare when Currid played a pass back that struck the onrushing Armadale No. 10. However, the effort from a tight angle went slightly high and wide.

Bo’ness ultimately sealed the game two minutes later when McInnes outmuscled Armadale’s No. 2 in the box. He took his time and played a precise ball across to Turnbull, who had arrived in the box. With one touch, Turnbull curled a right-footed shot inside the right-hand post.

Today was not Robertson’s day, but Bo’ness managed to secure a hard-fought victory in what proved to be their toughest league fixture of the season thus far. This well-deserved win on the road, combined with another clean sheet, propelled them to the top of the table, with a game in hand.

Final Score: Armadale Thistle 0 – 2 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 6