Season: 2023/24
Ormiston Primrose v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
In the penultimate fixture of the season, Bo’ness Athletic secured a critical three points with a resounding 4-0 away victory over Ormiston, ensuring their hosts’ relegation to Division 3. Bo’ness, a point clear at the top of the table going into this crucial match, were determined to put the previous week’s defeat to Thornton Hibs behind them and they did so in emphatic fashion, courtesy of a brace from Cunningham and goals from MacDonald and Godwin.
The opening 25 minutes were fraught with tension for Bo’ness, who dominated possession but struggled to convert their early pressure into goals. With less than three minutes on the clock, Heaver delivered a dangerous cross from the left flank, met by Cunningham’s glancing header which crashed off the far post, heightening the anxiety among the travelling supporters.
It took until the 27th minute for Bo’ness to break the deadlock, much to the relief of their fans. A slick move saw Heaver threading a pass to MacDonald, who surged into the box, outpaced his marker to reach the byline, and squared the ball for Cunningham to side-foot home from close range.
Three minutes later, Heaver nearly doubled the lead. Collecting a long ball from Paterson, he cut inside across the edge of the penalty area and unleashed a low drive that the Ormiston keeper did well to parry wide. Moments after, Bo’ness won a free-kick just outside the 18-yard box. Ogilvie played it short to Heaver, whose thunderous strike rattled the crossbar and bounced clear.
Ormiston responded with a free-kick of their own. Their number eight curled a superb effort over the wall, but Wilson, alert in the Bo’ness goal, pulled off a magnificent save, diving to his right to keep the visitors ahead.
Just before the interval, Mitchell battled to win a 50-50 challenge deep in Ormiston territory and delivered a cross-cum-shot that forced the home keeper to tip over the bar, ensuring Bo’ness went into the break with their slender lead intact.
The second half began with a substitution for Bo’ness, as Cameron made way for Godwin, who was deployed on the right wing and quickly made his presence felt. Ten minutes after the restart, Cunningham scored his second of the afternoon, latching onto MacDonald’s pinpoint cross to glance a shot past the despairing dive of the Ormiston keeper.
Cunningham came close to completing his hat-trick a few minutes later, skillfully turning two defenders inside the box before seeing his shot brilliantly saved. In the 70th minute, it was Godwin’s turn to test the Ormiston keeper, driving into the box and unleashing a low shot that was well saved.
A minute later, Bo’ness were awarded a penalty. Heaver controlled a diagonal ball on the edge of the box and played a first-time pass to Cunningham, who was upended by a clumsy challenge, leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot. MacDonald stepped up and smashed a high penalty into the net, making it 3-0, with the keeper guessing correctly but unable to reach it.
With the result seemingly secure, Bo’ness made a trio of substitutions: Weir replaced Heaver, Connolly came on for Snedden, and Sneddon substituted MacDonald.
The goal of the match came in the 83rd minute from the impressive Godwin. He danced past several Ormiston defenders down the right before losing the ball momentarily, regaining possession, and curling a stunning left-footed shot into the far corner, a strike no goalkeeper could have saved.
As the final whistle approached, further chances fell to Cunningham and Shanks, but the scoreline remained 4-0, a comprehensive victory for Bo’ness.
The win keeps Bo’ness in pole position, with Thornton Hibs breathing down their necks, just a point behind. With only one match remaining, a home game against Dalkeith Thistle next Saturday, Bo’ness are on the brink of a memorable season. One final push is all that stands between them and the title.
Final Score: Ormiston Primrose 0 – 4 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 29
Thornton Hibs v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness Athletic had their aspirations of clinching the league title dealt a blow as they succumbed to a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Thornton Hibs in a riveting encounter at Thornton Park. The loss narrows the gap at the top to a solitary point with just two fixtures remaining for each side, setting the stage for a thrilling climax to determine the champions of the E.O.S. Second Division.
The visitors entered the fray with a chance to seize the league crown, necessitating a victory. However, despite an early breakthrough courtesy of MacDonald, who capitalised on a spilled shot from Ogilvie to open the scoring, Bo’ness found themselves pegged back swiftly by an incisive Thornton attack. A sublime finish from the home side’s No. 10 restored parity just moments after MacDonald’s opener, setting the tone for a pulsating encounter.
Bo’ness saw a goal disallowed shortly thereafter, as Heaver’s incisive pass found Cunningham, only for the linesman’s flag to thwart their celebrations. Thornton then seized the initiative, taking a 2-1 lead through a composed finish from their No. 10, capitalising on a defensive mix-up . It looked an easy clearance for Paterson but Currid came rushing out to clear and ended in a 50/50 tackle which the Thornton no.10 won and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net.
It was the end of the match for Currid as he picked up an ankle injury in the challenge and Substitute Wilson came on to take his place.
The visitors, however, showcased their resilience, drawing level before the interval courtesy of a stunning strike from Heaver. His clinical finish breathed new life into Bo’ness’s pursuit of victory, setting the stage for a captivating second half.
Despite Bo’ness’s best efforts, Thornton regained the lead in the 65th minute, with their prolific No. 10 completing a well-deserved hat-trick to put his side ahead once more. The setback prompted Bo’ness to introduce substitute winger Godwin in a bid to bolster their attacking prowess, but their hopes were dashed as Thornton extended their advantage with a well-worked goal, leaving Bo’ness with a mountain to climb.
A late penalty awarded to Bo’ness offered a glimmer of hope, but Cunningham’s effort lacked conviction, allowing the Thornton keeper to make a comfortable save and preserve his side’s lead. As the final whistle blew, Bo’ness found themselves on the wrong end of the score-line for the second time against Thornton Hibs this season.
Both teams have already secured promotion, but with the title race intensifying, Bo’ness will be eager to bounce back from this setback and maintain their slender advantage at the top. The injury to Currid is a cause for concern, but the assured performance of substitute Wilson provides a silver lining amidst the disappointment, offering hope to the Bo’ness faithful as the season reaches its climax.
Final Score: Thornton Hibs 4 – 2 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 28
Edinburgh United v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness demonstrated their dominance in emphatic fashion on Tuesday night, securing a resounding 7-0 victory over bottom-of-the-table Edinburgh United in a match brimming with attacking prowess and clinical finishing. With a brace from Heaver, a hat-trick from MacDonald, and additional strikes from Cunningham and Ogilvie, Bo’ness left no doubt as to their superiority on the field, dispatching their opponents with ease.
The hosts wasted no time in asserting their authority, with Heaver opening the scoring after just one minute of play. MacDonald’s deft layoff found Heaver prowling down the left flank, and the winger displayed remarkable pace and precision to round the keeper and calmly slot the ball into the empty net, setting the tone for Bo’ness’s dominant display.
Despite the early setback, Edinburgh showed glimpses of promise, with an opportunity to pull one back arising in the 18th minute. A lofted ball over the top had Currid scrambling off his line, only for Edinburgh’s No. 11 to squander the chance with a lack of composure, failing to capitalise on the opportunity presented to him.
Bo’ness extended their lead in the 23rd minute, courtesy of a sublime display of teamwork and finishing. Heaver once again wreaked havoc down the left flank, delivering a pinpoint cross to Cunningham, who dispatched a clinical volley into the top corner, leaving the Edinburgh goalkeeper with no chance.
The hosts continued to pile on the pressure, with MacDonald adding his name to the scoresheet shortly after. Cunningham’s incisive pass found Heaver in space once more, and although his initial effort was blocked by the keeper, MacDonald was on hand to pounce on the rebound and extend Bo’ness’s lead to three goals.
Heaver came agonisingly close to adding his name to the scoresheet with a thunderous strike that rattled the far post, as Bo’ness threatened to run riot before the interval. However, it was MacDonald who provided the finishing touch for Bo’ness’s fourth goal, rising to nod the ball home after a goalmouth scramble.
As the second half commenced, Bo’ness showed no signs of relenting, with Heaver, Cunningham, and Ogilvie all going close in the opening exchanges. MacDonald completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, capping off a flowing move with a composed finish to put Bo’ness 5-0 ahead.
Five minutes later, Bo’ness further asserted their dominance, with Heaver turning provider once more to set up Ogilvie for a simple tap-in, much to the dismay of the Edinburgh defence.
Bo’ness made a flurry of substitutions to see out the game, with Cameron and Weir entering the fray in place of Woodburn and Snedden.
Heaver then produced a moment of individual brilliance, lashing home a stunning half-volley from a corner kick to put the result beyond doubt.
With victory secured, the remaining substitutes were also given a run-out, as Godwin, Connolly, and Sneddon replaced Ogilvie, MacDonald, and Heaver, respectively.
As the final whistle blew, Bo’ness celebrated a comprehensive victory, reaffirming their credentials as title contenders. The result served as a statement of intent from Bo’ness, who remain firmly on course to achieve their season objectives.
Final Score: Edinburgh United 0 – 7 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 27
Bo’ness Athletic v Burntisland Shipyard (League)
In a thrilling encounter amidst their title pursuit, Bo’ness edged closer to their championship aspirations in the East of Scotland Second Division, yet the relentless pursuit by Thornton Hibs looms, promising a nail-biting finale. Securing a crucial three points, Bo’ness showcased their talents with a stunning strike from Heaver, complemented by Cunningham’s prolific form as he notched an impressive four goals.
From the onset, Bo’ness asserted their dominance in ideal playing conditions. Within the first minute, Heaver threatened with a menacing cross, only to be denied by a timely intervention from Ogilvie and Burntisland’s No. 4, deflecting the shot wide. The momentum continued as Woodburn orchestrated a sublime lofted pass to find Cunningham, whose subsequent cross to MacDonald saw a thunderous strike rattling the far post.
Despite early pressure, Bo’ness faced an unexpected setback in the 23rd minute when Burntisland seized the lead against the run of play. A well-executed free kick found its way to Burntisland’s No. 2, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the stand-in keeper, Wilson. Undeterred, Bo’ness relentlessly pursued an equalizer, with MacDonald narrowly missing the mark from close range.
The pendulum swung in Bo’ness’s favour as half time approached, with Cunningham spearheading the offensive charge. Despite several promising opportunities, including a remarkable cross from Heaver, Bo’ness found themselves trailing at Newtown Park, a scenario unfamiliar to their title aspirations.
However, Bo’ness wasted no time in the second half, with Cunningham’s audacious bicycle kick setting the tone for their resurgence. Minutes later, Heaver restored parity with a solo effort, showcasing sublime skill and composure to beat the keeper at his near post, reigniting Bo’ness’s momentum.
The 56th minute saw Cameron leave the field and replaced by Michael Weir in the first of the Bo’ness substitutions
Bo’ness’s ascendancy was cemented in the 71st minute when Snedden orchestrated a clinical through ball, allowing Heaver to calmly assist Cunningham for his first goal of the match. A subsequent penalty awarded to Bo’ness further extended their lead, with Cunningham clinically converting to make it 3-1.
Despite Burntisland’s sporadic attempts, including a notable double save from Wilson, Bo’ness remained resolute in defence. A double substitution injected fresh energy into Bo’ness’s line-up, with MacKay and Godwin contributing to the proceedings with MacDonald and Ogilvie making way.
As the final whistle beckoned, Cunningham further embellished his stellar performance with a well-deserved hat-trick, much to the dismay of Burntisland’s management. Connolly was substituted on for the final moments of the game with Heaver going off to great applause, then a late penalty saw Cunningham sealing his fourth goal of the match, epitomizing Bo’ness’s dominance on the field.
With the season drawing to a close and only four games remaining, Bo’ness stands poised to achieve their milestone of breaking the 100-league goal mark. Cunningham’s remarkable feat of scoring his fourth consecutive league hat-trick, marking his sixth in the last seven matches across all competitions, underscores Bo’ness’s unwavering determination and ambition as they march towards their ultimate goal.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 5 – 1 Burntisland Shipyard
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 26
Bo’ness Athletic v Nithsdale Wanderers (Cup)
In a display of footballing prowess, Bo’ness Football Club secured a resounding 7-0 victory over South of Scotland’s Nithsdale Wanderers, clinching the prestigious Cup Winner’s Shield and booking their place in next season’s Scottish Cup draw. This triumph, achieved in commanding fashion, underscored Bo’ness’s dominance on the pitch and served as a fitting testament to their exceptional season.
This commanding victory, characterised by a masterful hat-trick from Cunningham and additional goals from Heaver, MacDonald, and Connolly, left the travelling Nithsdale side with a daunting journey home and cemented Bo’ness’s status as a formidable force.
The early stages of the match saw Bo’ness dictating the tempo, with Cunningham denied an early breakthrough by the linesman’s flag following a precision pass from Mitchell. Undeterred by this setback, Robertson tested the Nithsdale goalkeeper with a speculative effort from distance, setting the tone for Bo’ness’s relentless offensive onslaught.
It wasn’t long before Bo’ness’s persistence bore fruit, with Heaver breaking the deadlock in emphatic fashion. A simple assist from MacDonald found Heaver in prime position on the edge of the box, as he unleashed a thunderous strike that crashed into the bottom corner, leaving the goalkeeper without a chance.
Buoyed by their early advantage, Bo’ness continued to press forward with intent, doubling their lead through a moment of individual brilliance from Cunningham. A long throw-in from Robertson unlocked the Nithsdale defence, allowing Cunningham to showcase his predatory instincts with a clinical finish, much to the delight of the home faithful.
Despite Nithsdale’s valiant resistance, Bo’ness remained relentless in their pursuit of goals, with Cunningham and MacDonald coming close to extending the lead before the interval. Indeed, it was a testament to Nithsdale’s defensive resilience that the scoreline remained 2-0 heading into the break.
The second half witnessed Bo’ness maintaining their attacking impetus, as Cunningham squandered a golden opportunity to add to his tally early on. However, the home side’s persistence paid dividends, with Heaver atoning for the miss by calmly slotting home from close range, further extending Bo’ness’s advantage.
Nithsdale, to their credit, refused to capitulate, fashioning opportunities of their own, including a free-kick that rattled the woodwork. However, Bo’ness’s defensive resolve held firm, thwarting any attempts at a comeback and maintaining their dominance on the pitch.
Bo’ness made a double substation shortly afterwards with Robertson and Weir being replaced by Cameron and MacKay. Cameron looked to have picked up a nasty injury against Drumchapel midweek, so did particularly well to make himself available for this fixture.
As the match wore on, Bo’ness continued to showcase their attacking flair, with Cunningham completing his second of the match, and Bo’ness’s 4th, in emphatic fashion, leaving the Nithsdale defence in disarray.
Bo’ness continued to assert their dominance, adding to their lead with a sublime goal from a free-kick routine straight off the training ground. A well-worked move involving Ogilvie, Snedden, and MacDonald culminated in a tap-in for MacDonald, stretching Bo’ness’s lead to 5-0.
Cunningham, eager to complete his hat-trick, was not to be denied, as he shrugged off defenders before rifling the ball into the net to make it 6-0.
With victory all but assured, Bo’ness opted to ring the changes, affording opportunities to the likes of Godwin, Connolly, and Sneddon to make their mark on the contest. Connolly duly obliged, capping off a mesmerising display of attacking football with a well-taken goal, putting the finishing touches on a comprehensive 6-0 triumph.
As the final whistle sounded, Bo’ness savoured the sweet taste of victory, basking in the adulation of their devoted supporters. With the Cup Winner’s Shield secured and a place in next season’s Scottish Cup assured, Bo’ness can look forward to plying their trade on the grandest stage of them all, as they continue their quest for glory in the world’s oldest national football competition.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 7 – 0 Nithsdale Wanderers
Cup Winners Shield Match 2
Drumchapel United v Bo’ness Athletic (Cup)
In a stirring display, Bo’ness Football Club triumphed with a resounding 3-1 victory over formidable opponents Drumchapel United, marking a significant stride towards securing a coveted spot in next season’s Scottish Cup. This compelling clash unfolded at Drumchapel’s home ground in East Dumbartonshire, offering fans a riveting spectacle under the floodlights.
The stage was set for a fiercely contested encounter, with Drumchapel United, atop the First Division of their esteemed West of Scotland league, presenting a formidable challenge. Spearheaded by the esteemed former Glasgow Rangers midfielder David Templeton, Drumchapel boasted a roster brimming with talent and tenacity.
The initial exchanges saw both sides vying for dominance, with neither conceding an inch on the pitch. However, with a mere seven minutes elapsed on the game clock, Bo’ness’s Shanks appeared poised to break the deadlock, meeting a precise free-kick delivery into the Drumchapel box with a towering header. Alas, the jubilation of the travelling faithful was short-lived, as the referee adjudged a push on the defender, disallowing the goal.
Undeterred by this setback, Drumchapel seized the initiative just moments later, as the indomitable Templeton orchestrated a precision pass to Hopkirk, who calmly slotted the ball past Bo’ness stopper Currid, igniting a roar of approval from the home faithful.
Yet, resilience coursed through the veins of Bo’ness, as they swiftly retaliated within five minutes of conceding, orchestrating a seamless set-piece manoeuvre that culminated in Woodburn’s majestic powerful header finding the back of the net, reigniting hope among the travelling contingent.
As the first half unfolded, Bo’ness continued to press forward with purpose, fashioning several scoring opportunities, including a daring overhead kick from Cameron that narrowly missed the target. However, their efforts were thwarted by Drumchapel’s steadfast defence and the heroics of their goalkeeper.
The narrative took a pivotal turn as Drumchapel was forced into an unforeseen substitution due to injury, introducing their stand-in goalkeeper to the fray.
The resumption of play in the second half witnessed Drumchapel launching a spirited offensive, eager to assert their dominance once more. However, it was Bo’ness who seized the initiative, with Ogilvie’s clinical finish from a well-crafted move propelling them into the lead, much to the delight of their ardent supporters.
Buoyed by their newfound advantage, Bo’ness sought to consolidate their lead, with MacDonald’s clinical finish. A kick out from Bo’ness’s keeper Currid was knocked on by Weir to Robertson who did well to hold off the defender. As the pair tumbled to the ground MacDonald was on hand to knock the ball into the net and make it 3-1 and put the result beyond doubt. Despite Drumchapel’s valiant rearguard action, Bo’ness’s relentless onslaught proved insurmountable, sealing a well-deserved victory as the final whistle sounded.
This monumental triumph served as a resounding rebuttal to pre-match predictions, with Drumchapel entering the encounter as bookmakers’ favourites. For the loyal supporters who bore witness to this unforgettable spectacle, it stands as a testament to Bo’ness’s unwavering resolve and unwavering commitment to success.
As the dust settles on a memorable evening of footballing drama, Bo’ness looks ahead to a tantalising home tie against Nithsdale Wanderers in the Cup Winner’s Shield, with the tantalising prospect of securing a coveted place in next season’s Scottish Cup beckoning on the horizon.
Final Score: Drumchapel United 1 – 3 Bo’ness Athletic
Cup Winners Shield Match 1
Easthouses Lily v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness once again demonstrated their mettle on the road with a resounding triumph over Easthouses Lily, securing a vital three points. A stellar performance, spearheaded by MacDonald’s clinical strike and a remarkable quadruple from Cunningham, saw Bo’ness return home triumphant.
The match unfolded as a tale of two halves, with both sides fiercely contesting the midfield and creating promising opportunities. Early on, Weir unleashed a deflected shot that sailed tantalisingly over the crossbar, while Robertson tested the keeper with a close-range effort, expertly parried wide. However, it wasn’t until the 43rd minute that the deadlock was shattered. A precise long throw from Robertson found Cunningham lurking in the box, who adeptly converted to put Bo’ness ahead.
As halftime came, tactical substitutions saw Robertson and Cameron replaced by Heaver and Paterson, signaling Bo’ness’ strategic adaptability.
The second half witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum as Easthouses mounted a spirited comeback. Despite Ogilvie’s narrowly missed header, Easthouses found their equaliser just two minutes into the half. A swift attacking move down the right flank culminated in a low cross, catching the Bo’ness defence off guard as Easthouses’ No. 3 capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home.
Buoyed by their equaliser, Easthouses swiftly seized the lead with a sublime lofted chip from their No. 9, leaving Currid stranded and the Bo’ness faithful stunned.
Undeterred, Bo’ness quickly responded, restoring parity with a fortuitous goal from Cunningham following MacDonald’s incisive pass that the keeper failed to handle. This injection of confidence spurred Bo’ness on, as they relentlessly pressed forward, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Weir’s header narrowly missed the mark, while Heaver tested the keeper from range.
In a moment of brilliance, MacDonald reclaimed the lead for Bo’ness with a remarkable chip over a sea of Easthouses defenders, leaving the keeper helpless.
Cunningham continued to torment the Easthouses defence, capping off a sensational performance with two sublime finishes, the latter assisted by Heaver’s selfless play.
With victory secured, Bo’ness made further substitutions, with Godwin entering the fray for Weir and Connolly replacing MacDonald, to see out the final moments of the match.
Bo’ness’ triumph in the Midlothian heartlands epitomized their resilience and hunger for success. Cunningham’s clinical display upfront underscored his prowess as a prolific striker, a beacon of hope for Bo’ness as they strive for glory in the remainder of the season.
Final Score: Easthouses Lily 1 – 5 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 25
Nithsdale Wanderers
Bo’ness Athletic v Kennoway Star Hearts (League)
Bo’ness continued their commanding march atop the league standings with a resounding triumph over Kennoway Star Hearts, securing a decisive three points and asserting their dominance with a seven-goal spectacle. In a second-half exhibition of prowess, they systematically dismantled their opponents, affirming their quest for consecutive league titles, with the irrepressible Cunningham once again stealing the limelight with a scintillating hat-trick.
The encounter ignited with MacDonald orchestrating the game’s first opportunity, his incursion into the box foiled by a desperate defensive intervention, leaving his effort to trickle wide of the post. Undeterred, MacDonald remained in the thick of the action, this time connecting with a precision delivery from Robertson, only to see his sliding attempt veer wide, denying Bo’ness an early advantage.
The deadlock shattered in the 22nd minute, as a deft through ball from Robertson set in motion a sequence that culminated in Snedden calmly slotting home following a fortuitous deflection off the keeper and a scrambling defender, granting Bo’ness a deserved lead.
Minutes later, Cunningham unleashed a lofted strike from distance, his audacious effort thwarted by the gusty winds as it agonizingly kissed the crossbar. However, Cunningham swiftly atoned for his near miss, capitalizing on Weir’s precise feed to double Bo’ness’ advantage with a trademark finish just before the interval.
Kennoway, unwilling to capitulate, conjured a moment of brilliance on the stroke of half-time, as their talismanic no.9 unleashed a thunderous free-kick, crashing against the woodwork before nestling into the net, igniting hopes of a spirited comeback.
The second half witnessed Bo’ness elevating their performance to another level, as they ruthlessly exploited their opponent’s vulnerabilities, notching three goals in a devastating 12-minute onslaught. Weir orchestrated the onslaught, delivering a deft pass into the path of Cunningham, who coolly dispatched his second of the afternoon.
Ogilvie then showcased his vision and execution, launching a quick free-kick that instigated a fluid attacking move to MacDonald, culminating in Weir expertly steering the ball home to extend Bo’ness’ advantage. Robertson further compounded Kennoway’s misery, winning and converting a penalty with aplomb, effectively extinguishing any flickering hopes of a revival.
As the game progressed, Bo’ness exhibited their depth and tactical acumen, executing astute substitutions to maintain their stranglehold on proceedings. Kennoway, however, salvaged a semblance of pride with a late strike, but it proved inconsequential as Bo’ness continued to assert their dominance.
In the dying embers of the contest, a lapse in Kennoway’s concentration provided MacDonald with an opportunity to pounce, setting up Duncan for Bo’ness’ sixth goal. Cunningham then put the finishing touches on a masterful display, completing his hat-trick with a clinical finish, epitomizing Bo’ness’ unyielding pursuit of excellence.
As the final whistle sounded, Bo’ness emerged victorious, reaffirming their status as the team to beat in the league. With each passing fixture, they edge closer to their goal, and today’s triumph serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to success.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 2 – 1 Kennoway Star Hearts
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 24
