2023/24 – Page 3 – Bo'ness Athletic Football Club

Bo’ness Athletic v Oakley United (Cup)

Bo’ness kicked off their campaign to retain the East Of Scotland League Cup in impressive fashion, securing a thrilling 4-2 triumph against Oakley United at their venerable home ground of Newtown Park. A brace from the prolific Cunningham within regulation time saw the sides level at 2-2 before the contest delved into Extra Time, where Bo’ness showcased their resilience and determination with two additional strikes courtesy of Cameron and Robertson, thereby clinching a place in the upcoming draw for the second round.

The encounter ignited with Bo’ness asserting their dominance in the initial 45 minutes, spearheaded by the potent attacking partnership of Cunningham, in sublime form, and the promising newcomer Heaver. The hosts dictated proceedings, with Oakley United struggling to breach Bo’ness’s steadfast defensive line. Bo’ness came agonizingly close to an early breakthrough as Heaver orchestrated an incisive move, feeding a precise pass to Cunningham, whose venomous strike was deftly repelled by an Oakley defender’s timely intervention.

Heaver, eager to mark his debut with a goal, unleashed a speculative effort from outside the box in the 18th minute, only to see his attempt sail narrowly wide of the target. Duncan, a standout performer, exhibited glimpses of his talent, endeavoring to replicate his recent set-piece prowess with a series of audacious long-range attempts. The deadlock was finally broken in the 22nd minute, orchestrated by a clever delivery from Duncan on the right flank, finding Cunningham lurking within the six-yard box. Cunningham exhibited poise and precision, eluding his marker before dispatching a clinical finish into the far corner of the net.

Bo’ness continued to press for a second goal, with Cunningham threatening to double his tally with a one-on-one opportunity thwarted by a resilient Oakley goalkeeper. Despite a flurry of chances, including audacious efforts from Cameron and Paterson from distance, Bo’ness failed to capitalize on their dominance, heading into halftime with a slender 1-0 advantage.

The second half commenced with Bo’ness swiftly extending their lead, courtesy of a sublime through ball from Duncan, dissecting Oakley’s defence to find Cunningham, who calmly slotted home his second of the evening. However, Oakley United demonstrated resilience, mounting a spirited resurgence, as evidenced by a stunning free-kick that nestled into the top corner, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

The momentum shifted in Oakley’s favour, as they capitalized on defensive lapses to draw level with a well-worked move culminating in a clinical finish at the far post as Snedden lay stricken following a thunderous tackle that the referee somehow missed and which eventually forced him off the field due to injury, leaving them with ten men for the remainder of regular time. Despite valiant efforts from Robertson and Woodburn in the dying embers of regulation play, the scoreline remained deadlocked at 2-2, necessitating extra time to determine a winner.

The first period of extra time witnessed Bo’ness dictating proceedings, allowed Bo’ness to introduce final substitute Sneddon. MacDonald and Robertson threatening from distance, only to be denied by narrow margins. The pivotal moment arrived as Godwin embarked on a surging run into the box, only to be brought down by a mistimed tackle, resulting in a penalty awarded in favour of Bo’ness. However, Robertson’s spot-kick cannoned off the woodwork, squandering a golden opportunity to seize control of the contest.

Undeterred by the missed penalty, Bo’ness exhibited resilience and resolve in the second period of extra time, as Cameron’s towering header from a corner restored their lead, much to the delight of the fervent home supporters. Paterson came agonizingly close to extending the advantage with a headed effort narrowly missing the target. The victory was sealed in style as Robertson, in scintillating form, unleashed a thunderous strike from a tight angle, leaving the Oakley custodian helpless as the ball nestled into the back of the net.

In conclusion, Bo’ness emerged victorious in a pulsating encounter, exhibiting commendable resilience and clinical finishing to overcome a spirited Oakley United side. While Oakley posed a formidable challenge, Bo’ness’s superiority ultimately shone through, ensuring their progression to the next round of the East Of Scotland League Cup, reaffirming their status as contenders once again for silverware in the ongoing campaign.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 4 – 2 Oakley United (A.E.T.)
East of Scotland League Cup First Round

Easthouses Lily v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

Heriott Watt University v Bo’ness Athletic (Cup Final)

Bo’ness celebrated their inaugural silverware of the season with a hard-fought triumph over Heriot Watt University in the Alex Jack Cup Final. A late tap-in from recent acquisition Sandy Cunningham proved decisive, sealing victory for Bo’ness and prompting club captain Jason MacKay to hoist the coveted trophy aloft in jubilation as champagne filled the air.

Blessed with a clean bill of health, Bo’ness fielded a formidable starting eleven, spearheaded by Currid between the posts and fortified by the defensive quartet of Shanks, Mitchell, Paterson, and Cameron. In midfield, MacKay, Ogilvie, Snedden, and Weir orchestrated proceedings, while MacDonald and Robertson spearheaded the attacking front.

From the opening whistle, Bo’ness endured a fierce challenge against a resilient Heriot Watt side. Playing against a headwind in the first half, Bo’ness initially struggled to find their rhythm. In the third minute, Heriot Watt had a penalty appeal waved away by the referee following a tangle of legs in and around the corner of the 18-yard box. Undeterred, Heriot Watt pressed forward, with a speculative effort from outside the box failing to trouble the unflappable Currid.

The early exchanges remained evenly balanced, with Bo’ness gradually asserting their authority on proceedings. A promising link-up play between Robertson and Weir almost yielded dividends, only for the Heriot Watt keeper to collect Robertson’s delivery across the face of goal comfortably. Moments later, Weir capitalized on a defensive error, but his final touch eluded him, allowing the Heriot Watt stopper to intervene decisively.

However, Bo’ness broke the deadlock in the 38th minute through a well-worked move. A defensive clearance fell kindly to Ogilvie on the edge of the box, who displayed exquisite control before feeding a pass to Shanks. The ensuing cross found MacDonald, whose looping header towards the far post was met with a deft nod from Weir, sending the ball cascading into the net. It was a crucial breakthrough for Bo’ness, with Weir reaffirming his status as one of the team’s prolific scorers this season.

Heriot Watt responded valiantly, almost finding an equalizer from a menacing corner kick. However, Currid’s heroics ensured Bo’ness maintained their slender lead heading into the interval.

As the second half unfolded, Heriot Watt grew in confidence, earning themselves a lifeline in the 61st minute from the penalty spot. A contentious challenge in the box resulted in a spot-kick for Heriot Watt, duly dispatched to level the scores and set the stage for a tense finale.

With momentum swinging in their favour, Heriot Watt threatened to snatch victory, forcing Currid into action with a series of menacing attempts. Sensing the need for a change, Irvine opted for a tactical reshuffle, introducing Godwin and Cunningham in place of MacDonald and Robertson.

Amidst the pulsating end-to-end action, both sides traded blows in a bid to seize the initiative. Cunningham came close with a low-driven effort, while Heriot Watt spurned a gilt-edged opportunity to take the lead with a curling shot narrowly missing the target.

However, in the dying moments of the game, Bo’ness conjured a decisive breakthrough. A well-delivered free-kick from Ogilvie found Weir at the far post, whose deft header across goal was met by the predatory instincts of Cunningham, ensuring victory for Bo’ness and igniting scenes of jubilation amongst the players and supporters alike.

The cup triumph not only marks a significant milestone for Bo’ness but also presents an opportunity to compete in next season’s SFA Scottish Cup. Bo’ness will vie for a coveted spot in the first round draw through a round-robin tournament, where they will lock horns with West of Scotland’s Drumchapel United and a team from the South of Scotland Football League. As they bask in the glory of their latest triumph, Bo’ness will undoubtedly relish the prospect of further silverware in the forthcoming campaign.

Final Score: Heriot Watt University 1 – 2 Bo’ness Athletic
The Alex Jack Cup Final

Peebles Rovers v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

Bo’ness Athletic emerged victorious from a hard-fought battle against Peebles Rovers, securing a vital three points in a thrilling encounter at Peebles Rovers’ ground. Despite conceding an early goal, Bo’ness showcased their resilience and attacking prowess, netting three goals in quick succession to seize control of the match. However, a spirited fightback from the home side set up a tense finale, with Bo’ness ultimately holding firm to clinch a crucial victory as the top three sides in the league all secured wins.

From the outset, both teams grappled with challenging conditions as the wind swept across the pitch and rain came down for periods of the first half. The opening exchanges were fiercely contested, with chances few and far between in the windy conditions. In the 10th minute, Robertson came close to breaking the deadlock with a snap shot from outside the box, but the Peebles goalkeeper was equal to the task, denying him at his near post.

Bo’ness continued to press forward, with Robertson turning provider to deliver a low cross into the box for MacDonald, only for the latter to sky his shot over the bar. Moments later, Mitchell unleashed a low-driven effort narrowly wide of the left-hand post, before MacDonald rattled the woodwork with a powerful header that left the Peebles defence scrambling to clear their lines.

However, it was Peebles who struck first blood in the 33rd minute, capitalising on a positive run down the left flank to take the lead. Despite a magnificent reaction save from Currid, the home side pounced on the rebound to bundle the ball over the line, sending the home crowd into raptures.

As the first half drew to a close, Bo’ness launched a spirited fightback, with MacDonald conjuring a moment of brilliance to restore parity in the dying minutes of the half. A delightful one-two between MacDonald and Weir set the former through on goal, and he unleashed a magnificent curling effort into the corner of the net to level the scores.

Yet, if fans thought MacDonald’s strike was a thing of beauty, they were treated to an even greater spectacle just minutes later. Robertson, displaying sublime skill and technique, cut inside from the left flank before unleashing an unstoppable shot from 25 yards out, nestling into the top corner to give Bo’ness the lead in emphatic fashion.

The second half saw Peebles come out with renewed vigour, as they sought to claw their way back into the contest. Despite a series of close calls and near misses, it was Bo’ness who extended their lead in the 69th minute, courtesy of a debut goal from Cunningham. The new signing crashed a shot off the bar before showcasing his predatory instincts to convert a rebound with a stunning bicycle kick, much to the delight of the travelling fans.

Although Cunningham came close to adding to his tally with two more efforts, Peebles refused to back down and found a lifeline in the 76th minute, with a spectacular strike reminiscent of MacDonald’s earlier effort. However, Bo’ness held on resolutely in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought victory.

While Peebles Rovers may currently languish in 12th place in the league, their spirited performance belied their position in the table, giving Bo’ness a stern test throughout the match. Despite the 33-point gap between the two sides, Peebles’ resilience ensured a tense and closely contested affair, leaving Bo’ness grateful for the crucial three points as they prepare for a brief hiatus from league action as cup duty beckons.

Final Score: Peebles Rovers 2 – 3 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 18

Newburgh v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

In an exhibition of footballing supremacy, Bo’ness Athletic showcased their relentless prowess by trouncing Newburgh 9-0 at East Shore Park. This latest encounter marks yet another chapter in Bo’ness’s unrelenting pursuit of consecutive promotions, leaving Newburgh battered and bruised in their wake. With an astounding 26 goals scored in their last three encounters this season, Bo’ness Athletic asserted their dominance in a manner that has become synonymous with their style of play.

From the opening whistle, it was evident that Bo’ness had no intentions of taking their foot off the gas. A lightning-quick run into the Newburgh territory set the stage for a clinical finish by Callum MacDonald in the 2nd minute, leaving the keeper with little chance.

The 4th minute witnessed a beautifully executed one-two between Weir and Robertson, resulting in an inch-perfect cross across the goal from Robertson, comfortably slotted home by MacDonald. The visitors continued to exploit their attacking prowess, leaving Newburgh’s defence in disarray.

MacDonald continued his goal-scoring spree, completing his hat-trick on the 20th minute. A rapidly taken free-kick caught the Newburgh defence off guard, allowing MacDonald to showcase his composure and finesse in rolling the ball into the corner of the net.

The 38th minute saw the scoreboard ticking over to 4-0. Bo’ness capitalized on a mistake, orchestrating a swift break, with Weir’s incisive pass finding MacDonald in a prime position to add to his tally.

In the 40th minute, a deftly taken free-kick and a deep cross from Shanks found Godwin, who controlled the ball well and had the luxury of time to navigate across the box and pick his spot past the keeper. Bo’ness confidently entered the halftime break with an imposing 5-0 lead.

Half time substitutions saw Robertson Godwin and MacKay replaced by Binnie, Duncan and Shearer and the second half commenced with no respite for Newburgh, as Bo’ness extended their lead just 7 minutes in. In a move started by Weir on he left, with a combination of passes between himself and MacDonald who, turned provider this time, delivering a precise cross for Weir to powerfully head home from close range.

On the 55th minute, goal number 7 unfolded with a swift pass originating from Bo’ness’ own area. A forward ball to Binnie down the left ebat the offside trap and he execute a well taken shot , deceiving the keeper and into the far corner of the net for a clinical finish. The Newburgh defence seemed helpless against the Bo’ness onslaught.

Trialist Connolly replaced Weir straight after the goal then moments later, it was 8-0, as another incisive pass split the defence, and Shearer’s cross-shot ended up diverting into the net off an unfortunate Newburgh defender but Shearer claimed the goal.

Bo’ness’s dominance and comfort on the ball around the opposition penalty area persisted, culminating in Duncan finding the back of the net to secure a resounding 9-0 victory.

It was another high scoring game for Bo’ness against what seemed like a young Newburgh side, which sees them having scored an amazing 84 goals so far in the league having played just over half their fixture.

Final Score: Newburgh 0 – 9 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 17

Bo’ness Athletic v Stirling University (League)

In a pulsating display of football prowess, Bo’ness orchestrated a sensational comeback to defy the odds and emerge triumphant against Stirling in a heart-stopping 3-4 victory. The game unfolded like a gripping drama, with Bo’ness going behind three times, only to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat with an extraordinary 90th-minute winner from the talismanic Ogilvie.

The picturesque setting for this thrilling encounter saw the sun casting its glow on the pitch, creating the perfect atmosphere for a football spectacle. Despite the biting cold, the conditions only heightened the intensity of the clash. Bo’ness introduced new faces into the fold, with Scott Cameron, recently acquired from Kelty Hearts, thrown into the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Reece Duncan, a promising signing from Camelon Juniors, waited eagerly on the bench for his potential debut.

The initial half-hour of the game was a whirlwind of chances for both sides. Early opportunities fell to Shearer and Paterson, with MacDonald threatening the opposition’s goal on two occasions. In the 21st minute, Currid exhibited his shot-stopping prowess with a great foot block, denying Stirling’s attempt to open the scoring. Weir later breached the offside trap, but as the keeper rushed out, the shot was well thwarted. Shearer persisted, testing the keeper from a tight angle, only to be denied once again.

However, in the 36th minute, Stirling managed to break the deadlock with a well-executed shot from the heart of the 18-yard box, leaving Currid visibly disappointed. Bo’ness retaliated before the halftime whistle, with Robertson’s ambitious shot sailing high over the bar. In the dying moments of the first half, Shearer was tripped inside the box, earning a penalty. Robertson confidently stepped up, slotting the ball into the right-hand corner, making it 1-1 at the interval.

The second half kicked off with a game-changing substitution, as Ogilvie replaced Shearer. Despite Bo’ness’s early shouts for a penalty, Stirling struck again, regaining the lead. Yet, within eight minutes, Bo’ness demonstrated resilience, pulling one back with Weir orchestrating an assist for Ogilvie’s clinical finish.

The see-saw battle continued when Stirling once again took the lead in the 68th minute, leaving the home crowd anxious. However, Bo’ness showcased their fighting spirit, levelling the score just three minutes later through MacDonald’s composed finish. With the game hanging in the balance, Bo’ness seized control of the narrative, dominating the chances in search of a decisive winner.

New signing Cameron had a shot inside the box, but the keeper’s quick reactions ensured the ball was cleared to safety. In the 68th minute, the unthinkable happened as Bo’ness found themselves trailing for the third time in the match. A sublime cross from the left-hand side landed perfectly between Cameron and Shanks, setting up the Stirling No. 9 to calmly guide the ball into the net, silencing the home crowd.

However, signs of despair quickly turned to hope as Bo’ness, with unwavering determination, levelled the score once again within three minutes. A precise ball through the middle found MacDonald, who, in a one-on-one with the keeper, showcased composure, taking a right-foot touch past the stopper and firing a left-foot shot into the empty net, from a narrow angle.

With the game hanging in the balance, all the chances in the dying moments fell Bo’ness’s way as they relentlessly pushed for a winner. Weir went agonizingly close, Robertson tested the keeper with a lofted shot, but a strong hand tipped the ball to safety. Sneddon fired a shot high over the bar, adding to the suspense of the climax.

Substitute Mansouri entered the fray, with Robertson making way, as Bo’ness sought the elusive winner. Deep into added time, a low cross from Sneddon into the box found Weir, who intelligently tapped it back to Ogilvie. As the defence rushed out to close down the play, Ogilvie unleashed a sweetly struck shot through the crowd of players. The ball ascended majestically, arrowing straight into the far top right-hand corner of the net.

Ogilvie’s spectacular goal, a true contender for goal of the season, triggered jubilant celebrations among the players and fans alike. As Ogilvie wheeled away with his teammates, the home crowd struggled to comprehend the extraordinary scenes they had just witnessed. The final whistle blew, and Bo’ness emerged victorious with the crucial three points in the bag.

This enthralling victory ensures Bo’ness maintains their impressive 10-point lead over second-placed Armadale Thistle in the league standings. The game will undoubtedly be etched Bo’ness Athletic history as one of the most remarkable comebacks, showcasing Bo’ness’s indomitable spirit and ability to rise to the occasion. For the fans, it was an unforgettable rollercoaster of emotions, and Bo’ness emerged as the deserving victors in this pulsating clash.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 4 – 3 Stirling University
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 16

Edinburgh College v Bo’ness Athletic (League)

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

Kelty Hearts v Bo’ness Athletic (Friendly)

Bo’ness Athletic v Coldstream (League)

Bo’ness Athletic Football Club electrified the field in their penultimate league clash of 2023, orchestrating an awe-inspiring spectacle that saw them decimate Coldstream with an emphatic 7-0 triumph. There was a air of excitement as Bo’ness unleashed a barrage of goals, leaving their opponents floundering in the wake of an offensive masterclass. The line-up, led by the likes of Godwin, Mitchell, and the virtuoso M. Weir with an astonishing four-goal spree, showcased an unparalleled performance that set the stadium alight.

From the opening whistle, Bo’ness surged forward with unyielding determination, launching wave after wave of relentless attacks that pinned Coldstream within their own half. The crowd barely had time to settle into the game before MacDonald unleashed a thunderous strike from the edge of the area, testing the reflexes of the Coldstream custodian, who managed to parry the ball to safety, conceding a corner in the process.

However, it didn’t take long for Bo’ness to impose their dominance. A mere five minutes into the action, Robertson’s lightning-paced run down the left flank evaded the opposing defence, culminating in a pinpoint cross finding Godwin lurking in the box. With the goalkeeper already beaten, it was a mere formality for the talented forward to slot home with finesse, igniting a roaring eruption of cheers from the home faithfull.

Coldstream, attempting to weather the storm, sought to retaliate with a speculative long-range effort, but Currid watched it sail harmlessly wide, ensuring his clean sheet remained unblemished.

The 13th minute witnessed MacDonald orchestrating a mesmerising sequence, receiving the ball centrally within the 18-yard area before expertly laying it off for Mitchell. The latter deftly maneuverer past his marker, setting up a left-footed strike that nestled perfectly into the corner of the net, leaving the Coldstream shot-stopper rooted to the spot.

Bo’ness continued to lay siege to their opponent’s goal, creating a flurry of chances that tantalisingly skirted the precipice of extending their lead. MacDonald’s venomous strike ricocheted off the post from distance, while Robertson’s close-range effort forced a commendable save from the Coldstream goalkeeper. Moments of anguish ensued for both sides as the woodwork denied one team and Currid’s acrobatics thwarted the other.

However, the game swiftly transformed into the Michael Weir show, a display of footballing virtuosity that left spectators in sheer awe. The maestro delivered a staggering trio of goals within a mere five-minute whirlwind, stamping his authority on the match with each sublime finish.

The first of his majestic goals unfolded as he deftly received a threaded pass, deftly gliding past the goalkeeper to slot the ball home. The second showcased MacDonald’s industriousness down the right flank, resulting in a rebound that found Weir’s poised left foot, dispatching the ball into the corner of the net with grace. Completing his scintillating hat-trick, Weir exhibited a touch of sheer brilliance, receiving a pass inside the box, pirouetting past his marker, and dispatching a venomous strike into the heart of the goal.

Nevertheless, fortune danced tantalisingly close for Weir as he sought to add more goals to his tally before the halftime whistle. Two audacious attempts from acute angles teased the spectators but ultimately missed the target, one deflected for a corner and the other blazing wide of the mark.

As the first half drew to a close, Godwin embarked on a dazzling run down the right flank, penetrating into the box with intent. However, despite his best efforts, he was unable to unleash a shot, and the subsequent opportunity fell to Robertson, whose effort sailed agonizingly high over the crossbar from a mere eight yards out.

The resumption of play in the second half bore witness to Bo’ness maintaining their stranglehold on the proceedings. Robertson, continuing his relentless pursuit of a goal, forced the Coldstream custodian into a low save, denying what seemed an imminent addition to the scoreline.

Minutes later, MacKay stepped up to take a free-kick from 30 yards out. The audacious attempt kissed the left-hand post before falling invitingly to MacDonald, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. However, jubilation turned to dismay as the referee controversially adjudged MacDonald to be in an offside position, disallowing the goal much to the player’s annoyance.

Refusing to be disheartened, M. Weir continued his sensational run, extending Bo’ness’ lead to an imposing six goals. A darting run from MacDonald into the box resulted in a cleverly poked pass towards Weir, who exhibited exquisite footwork to outfox the goalkeeper before dispatching the ball into the vacant net, sending the crowd into raptures.

Manager Irvine seized the opportunity to infuse fresh impetus into the game, orchestrating a flurry of substitutions. Shanks, MacKay, M. Weir, and Robertson made way for Simpson, Ogilvie, R. Weir, and Shearer, injecting renewed vigour into the Bo’ness line-up.

The impact was immediate, as within a mere four minutes, Shearer etched his name onto the scoresheet, with the final goal of the encounter. A scintillating defense-splitting pass dissected the Coldstream rearguard, finding Ogilvie in a prime position inside the box. With impeccable composure, he calmly rolled the ball across the goalmouth for Shearer to gleefully tap in, sealing Bo’ness’ emphatic triumph.

As the match entered its final phase, Irvine made his last substitution, ushering in Meechan in place of MacDonald.

Yet, credit must be accorded to Coldstream, who valiantly sought to claw back pride in the dying embers of the game. Their persistence culminated in a net-bound effort, only to be cruelly denied by the raised flag of the linesman, ruling out the goal for offside.

The match wasn’t merely a showcase of Bo’ness’s prowess on the field but also marked an emotional farewell to Ryan Weir, bidding adieu to the club before embarking on a new chapter in Australia. Ryan, who graced the club with his presence since June, amassed 22 appearances, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. As he ventures forth, the club extends its heartfelt wishes for success in his endeavours Down Under.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 7 – 0 Coldstream
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 14

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