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
Match Highlights
