Bo’ness Athletic v Edinburgh United (League)

Recap

In a rescheduled fixture, Bo’ness extended their commanding lead at the summit of the table in emphatic fashion, orchestrating a resounding 6-0 thrashing of Edinburgh United. A brace apiece for Cunningham and Ogilvie, supplemented by strikes from Robertson and Weir, propelled Bo’ness to an overwhelming victory, a result that, with a touch more fortune, could have seen a larger scoreline.

The evening kicked off with Bo’ness immediately asserting their dominance. A mere two minutes into the clash, a lofted ball found its way to Ogilvie, who adeptly chipped the onrushing goalkeeper from just beyond the six-yard box, setting the tone for the hosts. Moments later, MacDonald unleashed a thunderous effort from the edge of the 18-yard box, only to be denied by the woodwork, as his strike ricocheted off the right-hand post.

In a scene reminiscent of the opener, Cunningham found himself through on goal shortly thereafter, yet his attempted lob failed to trouble the vigilant goalkeeper, who gathered the ball comfortably. However, it was Edinburgh who nearly levelled proceedings in the 10th minute, with their No. 7 finding space between Bo’ness’ centre-backs, forcing Currid into a spectacular diving save to preserve his side’s clean sheet.

The encounter continued at a frenetic pace, with MacDonald and Heaver both going close for Bo’ness in quick succession. However, it was Robertson who doubled Bo’ness’ advantage in the 35th minute, showcasing exquisite control before calmly slotting the ball past the advancing keeper. Despite MacDonald’s eagerness to get on the scoresheet, his subsequent attempt sailed harmlessly over the crossbar.

As the second half commenced, Bo’ness wasted little time in asserting their dominance once more. Cunningham rose highest from a corner to nod home Bo’ness’ third, effectively putting the result beyond doubt. Edinburgh, however, found themselves denied twice within a second, as appeals for a penalty fell on deaf ears, as twice the ball was deflected off Woodburn, but with arms in a natural position the referee gave nothing.

Ogilvie came agonizingly close to adding to his tally in the 51st minute, rattling the woodwork with a curling effort, before finally finding the net once again, courtesy of MacDonald’s deft assist. Bo’ness then opted for a double substitution in the 65th minute, with Duncan and Weir entering the fray, the latter making an instant impact by adding his name to the scoresheet shortly thereafter.

The introduction of young talent in Connolly injected further energy into Bo’ness’ attack, with the promising prospect showcasing glimpses of his potential. With Heaver wreaking havoc down the right flank, Cunningham completed his brace with a clinical finish from close range, as Bo’ness continued to pile on the pressure.

Despite numerous opportunities to extend their lead, including Cunningham’s near misses and Connolly’s spirited attempts, Bo’ness ultimately settled for a comprehensive 6-0 victory, securing yet another clean sheet for the ever-alert Currid between the posts. From the outset, Bo’ness appeared in control, with Cunningham’s early strike setting the tone for a dominant performance, further solidifying their pursuit of the 2nd Division title.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 6 – 0 Edinburgh United
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 21