Sport Blochairn Star A.F.C Match Reports
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Blochairn Star 2 DTI 2 Blochairn progressed to the quarter final of the Strathclyde Cupwith the narrowest of margins as we won 10-9 on penalties. DTI were 1-0 up after 10 minutes which they held until the last kick of the ball in the first half when we converted a penalty. We played well in the first 10 minutes of the second half and were 2-1 up before DTI scored midway through. DTI looked the most likely to score and Craig Brown had to be at his very best to keep them out on a couple of occassions. Our 10 outfield players scored their penalties when the Blocahirn penalty jinx struck - unfortunately DTI it was ex Blochairn player Allan Kennedy (who had a brilliant game) who missed his spot kick. Yoker inj the quarters next Saturday and we play AS Airdrie in the league before that MOM Mark Mathieson Forest 2 Blochairn Star 5 A good 3 points earned at not so good John Browns as the parkl cut up as the night got darker. This was always going to be a difficult task especially considering the recent resurgence of Forest and a goal to the Clydebank team after 30 seconds made it a more difficult tie. Perversley losing the goal so early was probably the best thing that could have happened as it ensured the rest of the first period was approached in the right manner, Allan Campbell missed a couple of snips before Fitzy hit the bar in what was getting a wee bit frustrating as Forest defended really well. Frewsy was tripped in the box after 30 minutes and Henderson slammed home the penalty. It was backs to the wall for Forest but they were particularly dangerous from set peices. With 5 minutesto go to half time Henderson made it 2 from a Mc Grotty corner. And on the stroke of half tiome he bagged his 3rd after Murray and Frewy had combined to create the chance. The second half saw more of the same but as the game developed Forest came back into the game and Craig Brown had to be on his toes. Henderson got his forth mid way through the half before being replaced by Heepsy who bagged a goal in his 8th consecutive competitve game. forest kept at it and were rewarded with a minute to go when they convrerted through an overhead kick but by that time Craigs vision had been affected as it was DARK!! Good 3 points and our 3rd win in 7 days - next up is DTI in the Strathclyde Cup and a chance to reach another quarter final in what will prove to be a difficult task at Ibrox. MOM - jointly won by HENDERSON, MURRAY and MCGROTTY ============================== Skye Wanderers 1 Blochairn Star 6 We were able to make 6 changes to the team that had just scraped past Glasgow North 36 hours earlier and hopefully the size of our squad will allow us to compete in the 2 remaining competitions. Big John Brougham was recalled to the squad, replacing Kevin Connell who could be out for the season with a broken leg, and the big man notched a first half hat-trick before being rested. There were 2 first half goals from Gerry Hughes as Blochairn dominated proceedings. The second half started in the same vain as Heepsy got the 6th - that's seven successive games that he has scored. The tempo dropped significantly buit fair play to Skye who kept at it and were awarded a couple of penalties in the second half, dispatching the first before Craig Brown showed again why he is one of the best keepers around with a great save. This was our second game in what will be five games in 11 days. Our squad will be tested to the limit. MOM - Fitzy was excellent but was just shaded by JOHN BROUGHAM
============================ Glasgow North 1 Blochairn Star 2 This was a typical derby encounter as both teams with lots of energy but not a lot of football. Glasgow North had the better in terms of possession early in the game but did not create any clear cut chances while Brian Henderson had a volley cleared off the line. A rare Steven Gorman error let Blochairn in after about 35 minutes and Heepsy slotted past John Connell to score for the sixth successive game. 5 minutes later ex Glasgow North player Kevin Mc Grath did well to score (past ex Blochairn player John Connell :)) to make it 2-0 at the break. The second jhalf performance was not one for the purist and Glasgow North got back in the game when Michal donati scored. The young Glasgow North team pushed for an equaliser withouth really making any clear chances from a Blochairn point of view it was good to hear the final whistle . MOM Steven Gallagher ========================================
Blochairn Star 1 Whitefield Rovers 1 Whitefield Rovers win 5-4 on penalties. Congratulations to Whitefield who progressed to the semi final on the league cup on a day that everything that could have went wrong for Blochairn did. Pre match we had lost Roan, Hughes and Frew but were confident that our squad had shown enough strength to compete in this massive game. We were 1-0 up with under 10 minutes gone as Heepsy and Mc Cartney linked up well for Heepsy to head home. Henderson had a good opportunitiy to double the lead after 15 minutes but was blocked by the Whitefield keeper. This was a very tight game were Blochairn were looking increasingly dangerous on the break although Whitefield are a very good team and were pressing Blochairn without creating many clear cut chances. As if our injury concerns prior to the game were not bad enough on the half hour Keving Connell tracked a run by the big Whitefileld left sided striker but as he slid in his foot stuck int the turf, he has broken his leg and looks to be out for the season - the injury had nothing to do with the Whitefield player, jusat unfortunate for Kev and us. a late challenge from a Whitefield player 5 minutes later changed the shape of the game though as 3 Blochairn players over reacted. The challenge was stern but not malicious but the reaction of the blochairn players was naive to say the least, Allan Campbell, John Conner and the Craig Brown all found themselves on the tightrope of a yellow card. Whitefield were very unfortunate not to go in on level terms as the hit the post with a chance that they probably should have scored -0 so 1-0 up at half time. We discussed at half time the importance of maintaining out discipline which made the second yellow card for Allan Campbell after 48 minutes particularly frustrating. The big centre half was giving as good as he got in the jersey pulling stakes but the ref saw Allan's and issuied the red card, our troubles increased. To be fair Whitefield had us on the back foot for most of the second half although there was significant chances and a clear penalty shout that did not go Blochairn's way. Craig Brown kept us in the game with a couple of great stops but was beaten with 4 minutes to go as Whitefield grabbed a deserved equaliser. But the Blochairn goalie will know that his decision making was questionable as he tussled with a Whitefield player for possession of the ball in the 89th minute to recieve his second yellow. Now if the boys that were out before kick off and losing Kev and Allan during the game had an impact on Blochairn, losing our keeper 30 seconds before a penalty shoot out was hard to take. Whirtefield dispatched their 5 penalties to progress and we wish them well, they will be a great addition to the Premier League next season. We have exited every domestic cup on penalties in the last two seasons which is sore. People were quick to suggest that the referee had an impact on the result although in the cold light of day I will need to say that all of his decisions were right (apart from the penalty) and the Blochairn players will need to ask the same question again and wonder wether our self discipline can be controlled enough to challenge for any trophies - the question is out there.
MOM Joe mc Luskey
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East Dunbartonshire 0 Blochairn Star 7 This was probably our best team performance of the season so far as we had a very good East Dumbartonshire team on the back foot for the majority of this game. Henderson volleyed home the first from a Paul Roan corner and then turned provider for Heepsy's first after good link up play with Mc Cartney. blochairn were in the ascendancy at this point when ED had a decent penalty shout which was not given (quite rightly in our opinion :)) and could have changed the shape of the game. Hensderson then set up heepsy for anothe 2 good finishes and we led 4-0 at half time. Previous weeks have saw us fluctuate in performance from one 45 minutes to the next do the emphasis was on maintaining the level of performance while keeping a clean sheet. These objectives were acheived in the second half with another Heepsy strike, his fourth of the game, a Paul roan belter and a tap in for Henderson while our back 4 were sliding in for tackles in the 89th minute - brilliant performance from Blochairn against a team who have proven themselves to be more than decent - we wish them well for the rest of the season and in the Tommy Marshall cup. Next up are Division 1 leaders Whitefield Rovers in the league cup quarter final at Glenconner on Saturday - this will be a big test for both clubs.
MOM Brian Henderson ======================================= Victoria Park 1 Blochairn Star 4 A good 3 points for blochairn after a first 45 where Victoria Park gave as good as the got and were leading by a solitary strike at the interval. There were good opportunities in the first half for Blochairn but the Vicki Park goalie denied Roan and Thomson and Gerry and Murray both went close. The second 45 minutes saw our best performance of the season and we scored 4 goals and realistically could have had another couple but again the Vicki Park goalie made a great contribuition for his team. Gerry got the equalised a couple of minutes after the restart before Frewsy made it 2-1 in our favour - the two front men were replaced by Heeps and Henderson who both weent on to score with their first touch of the ball to secure the victory and 3 points Vicki Park played well in the first half but as other results have conspired see themselvesdragged into a relegation battle but they look to have enough quality to avoid that, but again it shows how good the Premier league has become. Elswhere Whitefield Rovers beat AS Airdrie and we will meet them in the quarter final of the League Cup at Glenconner in what should be a very tricky test against the Division 1 leaders and title favourites. MOM John Thomson ========================================== Blochairn Star 4 Greenhills Dynamo 4 This certainly brought memories back as the champions lined up at glenconner sporting black and green vertical stripes - unfortunately for us the Champions were only visiting and the times of Blochairn winning championship looks as if it will remain a memory unless we can have an exceptional second half to this league campaign. This was our 10th point dropped at home and may have killed off our hopes of competing for the championship as AS Airdrie and particularly Tynecastle look to be strong favourites now, We started this game very well and Fresy had us ahead after 15 minutes with a good finish. on about half an hour Greenhills equalised as the first pass looked to have beat the offside trap but as Barry Devine passed it beyong Craig, Davie atta looked to be in an offside position as he tapped home but the referee was 100% certain that the Greenhills striker was onside - so fair enough.Henderson hasd us ahead before the break as he chased down a pass back before dispossessing the goalie for the easiest of tap in, so we went into the break 2-1 up. Greenhills got back into the match almost immediately from kick off as Davie atta waas left isolated on the left hand side and he done extremely well to beat mathieson and slip passed Craig. Paul roan put us ahead again after good work from Mc Cartney and the big man volleyed home. At this point of the game we were pressing for the fourth but Greenhills defended well. with 20 minutes to go Greenhills broke on the left hand side the cross was judged to have come off Allan Campbells arm - the big defender was adamant that it has stuck his body and frustratingly the referee declared that he "thought" it was a penalty because Allan "seemed to move his arm towrds the ball" then conceding he was not 100% sure that it was a penalty - big decision to get wrong in such a big game. After despating the penalty greenhills took the lead with a minute left following good work again on the right and a clinical finish by Mick Donnelly, with 3 minutes injury time played Gerry played in Murray who squared to heepsy for a great finish to make it 4-4 before the final whistle went. Both team's had other chances particularly Mc Philimy and Henderson in what proved to be an entetaining game for the neutral. Both team will feel the game was there for the taking but the champions battled hard for each other and never stopped believing that they would get something from the game - ahhh the memories :) MOM Gerry Hughes ========================================= Blairdardie 1 Blochairn Star 2 This was a decent game and Blairdardie will consider themselves unlucky not to have at least taken the tie to penalties. The home team had led 1-0 at half time, following a very rare mistake by Craig Brown, and would have doubled there advantage if a great drive had not cannoned off the bar. The only real chance of note for Blochairn was a Frewsy effore which went passed the post. Early in the second half saw the introduction of Kevin Connell and Gerry Hughes which changed the game and gave us the emphasis. We created a number of chances but Blairdardie looked strong on the break. Gerry created the equaliser following great work on the right hand side to square for Mc Cartney to slam home - Blairdardie had claimed the ball crossed the line before the cut back but the referee was assured that it had not. Mc Cartney then scored a belter for the winner curling in from the edge of the box before the referee (who was excellent) probably squared things up by chalking off a Gerry Hughes strike from a Joe Mc Luskey cut back. Brian henderson had a couple of guilt edged chances to make it safe but we saw the game out and progressed to the next round. a lot of talk goes on about the gulf between the Premier and lower divisions, not on todays display as Blairdardie gave as good as they got and were unlucky MOM Paul mc Cartney Blochairn Star 2 Glasgow North 3 A Brian henderson (Junior) double and Sean Turley strike were enough to secure the points for Paul Kelly's team in a typical derby match in which Blochairn did not match the north's desire or commitment It started weel and a good John Thomson goal had us ahead as we dominated the first 25 minutes until a long ball through the centre was not dealt with by the centre halfs and young Brian scored after Craig had parried his initial effort. Although there was a good shout for a foul on John conner who was impeded by Michael Mc Ilroy A tousy rest of the half was eachy peachy but Brian Henderson (senior) got lucky just before the break as his cross cum shout lobbed over john connell in what was a stroke of luck for us although the north Goalies brother, Kevin, had to leave the field at half time as a result of another Mc Ilroy challenge and this had a negative impact on blochairn's second half performance. Willie Driver moved over to left back and we lost his impact in the centre of the park. Big Sean scored with almost his first touch to level after a Mathieson error and when Eddie Ferns skipped through 3 challenges to deliver an outstanding cross ther were 3 north players waiting to finish - young Brian getting there first. We put the north under a bit of pressure for the rest of the game and there were notable chances for John Heeps and Paul mc Cartney but the north were worthy of the points in the end A pretty poor performance from us but well done to Paul and the lads who had battlers all over the park especially wee Macca who gave everything for his cause and battled for every ball - oh what we would give for that spirit MOM for Blochairn only two players get pass marks so PAul Mc Cartney and Joe Mc Luskey share the "accolade" - I am sure they will be over the moon
============================================= Blochairn Star 5 St. Mary's 1 Saturday 12th Feb 2011 This was not the best that we have played and not the worst that St. Mary's have played but it was close to both. Blochairn started on the frontfoot and as Gerry Hughes chased a through ball and went up with the keeper, it looked as if the blochairn front man had been impeded but the referee did not agree, so an early let off for St. Mary's. For the next 20 minutes or so neither Craig Brown or the St. Mary's stand in were tested as the game was pretty much a midfield battle. Craig Brown then had a good save over the bar as both team pressed for the opener. The first goal arrived after about 30 minutes in a similar move to which Gerrys first minute chance but this time Paul roan got there before the goalie to nod home, gerry then set up John thomson for a well taken second to put Blochairn in the driving seat. To be honest we expected more from st. Mary's in the second half and to be fair they put us under a bit of pressure in the first 10 minutes of the half bur after Tommo got his second and our 3rd on the 55 minute mark there was only ever going to be one winner. St. mary's got what should have been a lifeline with 20 minutes to go after the ref wrongly blew for offside against Mathieson followed by the Mary's player taking the free kick from a "drop kick" and the ball clearly moving the Mary's goal maching Mark tait dispatched - the three goal parity was restored almost from kick off as Tommos square ball was knocked home for an own goal. Heepsy came off the bench to score the 5th and there could have been more as too many St. Mary's players stopped playing which was bitterly dissapointing for thier management team. It was a bad day at the office for st. mary's but the result keeps Blochairn in the hunt ....just.
MOM Paul Roan
Blochairn Star 6 Kelvinbank Star 3 We started fantastically well playing with confidence and style, we hit a sticky patch towards the middle and finished on top. Hopefully the above statement is reflective of our season rather than just the way the game against Kelvinbank played out on Saturday. As in the season 2010/11 we started on fire winning our first competitive 9 games, we then hit a very sticky patch winning only 1 of our next 12 games including friendlies but got back on winning ways on Saturday which is hopefully the start of a decent run where we can put ourselves in a position to challenge, although we have a lot of work to do. The first 30 minutes of this game was the best that Blochairn had played for about 3 months with new boy Willie Driver settling in well and brining something different to the midfield area, there was also a return to the team for Frewsy, Paul Roan and Heepsy from the team that capitulated against Hurlford. We were 1-0 after about 10 minutes with Henderson getting the slightest of touches to Heepsy's pass to wrong foot the goalie. The same two paired up well for Henderson's second and we looked well in command. Kelvinbank's first real forray up the park resulted in a corner after about 35 minutes and there are not many teams in the league more dangerous from set plays and they duly grabbed a lifeline before the break - in all honesty Blochairn had 75% of possesion until this point but got edgy after Kelvinbanks counter. Kelvinbank turned the game on its head in the first 10 minutes of the second half with another from a corner which the Blochairn defence are adamant did not cross the line and another from a rasper after about 55 minutes. For a team that had only registered 1 victory in their last 12 games this was a real challenge against a team that are always hard to beat. We gota bit lucky with the equaliser as Tommos drive deflected off Zander on the way in. This settled us and we were on top again for the last 20 with 2 great goals from Frewsy and a last minute Roan header. A great 3 points and hopefully we can build on the performance with a tricky tie at home to 3rd place St. Mary's on Saturday. MOM Frewsy
Hurlford Thistle 5 Blochairn Star 0 We faced the 2009/10 Scottish Cup finalists and current ayrshire Premier League champions in what was always going to be an uphill battle. Our game plan was to keep it as tight as possible in an attempt to frustrate the very vocal home support but those plans were scuppered as early as 20 seconds into the game as we conceded from a self inflicted error. A penalty was awarded after 40 minutes with Craigy maintaining his innocence in his claim that the Ayrshire man dived and the wee man was unlucky with the kick even under severe provocation from behind the goal. another mistake on the stroke of half time saw us down 3-0 in a half were we created 3 clear cut chances and Craigy only produced one real save. The second half was an excercise in going through the motions and the Ayrshire giants added another 2 to make it 5-0 in what all in all was a very dissapointing Blochairn performance.
MOM Gerry Hughes
Blochairn Star 3 Carlton YM 1 The west of Scotland 3rd round tie witnessed the best blochairn performance of the season in a wind assisted first half with loads of chances creeated and Brian Henderson unplayable with a hat-traick after 30 minutes from head and each foot, there was also time for John Heeps making his second debut of the season after returning from Forth to miss a spot kick after Gerry was hauled down in the box. The second half was as bad as the first half was good, we conceded a goal and lost all shape and confidence as not for the first time this season Craig Brown kept us in the game, the wind was certainly a factor but we were as much to blame for our miserable performance. We held on for a 3-1 victory and now face Ayrshire's top club Hurlford Thistle
MOM Craig Brown was excellent but Brian Henderson for his exceptional first half showing
Blochairn Star 1 Tynecastle 2 We have now gone 3 seasons since a victory over Tynecastle and todays scoreline could have been a lot worse if it was not for Craig brown's heroics. We batttled well in the first half and it was a pretty even game but Tynecastle totally dominated the second half going two up and some of Craig's saves were exceptional. We made it 2-1 through Henderson with 10 minutes to go but there was never any belief that we would get an equaliser. We had notable players out but it would be churlish to look for any another reason for this defeat than Tynecastle were better on the day and deserved thier win. Lets hope the next Blochairn/Tynecastle match can go past without any nonsense from the touchlines - both teams have been guilty in the past of over exuberance and it tends to take away people thoughts from usually very good football matches. It is time to bring it to a halt (from both teams) and concentrate on the football - and on saturday Tynecastle were by far the better football team
MOM Craig Brown by a million miles
Westerlands 4 Blochairn 2 Gerry got 2 second half goals which seen him as one of our only performers to recieve pass marks in a game that on another day we could have progressed. Bad mistakes by the goalie led to unessecarry goals and we were 2-0 down before we got going. We got back in it at 2-1 and 3-2 and were pushing for an equaliser at the death before the sucker punch - poor show
MOM gerry Hughes
Blochairn Star 2 County Thistle 2 County earnes a well deserved point courtesy of an equaliser in the 88th minute in what was to be honest a scrappy game. Chances were to a minimim for both teams before Stuart Alexander's opener and the score stayed at 1-0 at the interval. This was as a poor a second half performance that this season has witnissed - in other games we have not created chances but been dominant in ball possession. This week we were mince. County eqalised before we got into action scoring a very good equaliser through Paul Roan. County's earlier equaliser should have been a wake up call for Blochairn but alas to no avail because we reverted back to mince after Roan's goal befoer the inevitable equaliser on 88 minutes. This was not all about our definciancies as county battled well and never stopped believing and in fact were pressing for a wineer after making it 2-2 but for a Blochairn point of view the culmination of weeks of "getting by" was rewarded with 2 points dropped - deservedly. There is a question to all squad members of Blochairn - are we good enough to sustain a challenge for this title crown? Answers can only come from the players.
MOM Stuart Alexander ========================================= ============================ Blochairn Star 5 Strathaven Dynamo 0 A decent Blochairn performance saw us progress to the 3rd round of the west of Scotland cup. This was a game that we very much dominated apart from a couple of 5 minutes spells of pressure from the visitors. John Thomson got the opener with a great finish following good work from Sean Connell and Hendo and there were great further chances for Hendo, wee Kevin and Murray. Strathaven hit the bar with a cross cum shot but created little else in the first period. 1-0 at half time and blochairn went on to dominate the second half with another good John Thomsom solo effort, a Henderson strike after umpteen chances and a double from second half substitute Paul Clayton (as he does :)). Kevin Mc Grath missed a snip and the Strathaven keeper had a good game - the visitors only chance fell to thier stiker at 2-0 but Michael Nelson completed a very good debut with a good one on one stop. Strathaven would struggle in the SSMl Premier League and did not cause us many problems - maybe they just had an off day. It was a good day however for SSML clubs as 10 out of 13 progressed to the next stages of the nationals - well done guys. We have a sterner test on Saturday as County Thistle visit on league business.
MOM John Thomson ============================ =========================== Shawbridge 0 Blochairn Star 1 A Brian Henderson goal early in the second half was all that seperated the two teams in what proved to be a very close game. Blochairn had the better of the chances, hitting the crossbar 3 times - twice from Paul Roan and from John Brougham but there was little in the way of clear cut chances from either team. After a decent start by the visitors it was Shawbridge who had the most possession for the rest of the first half with Barry having a half chance but little else to show for the Shaws for their dominance. There was a real midfeild battle, particulalry between Dyer and Tommo - with both recieving yellow cards but equally having a great game but no scoring at the interval. Blochairn got the goal early in the second half as Brian Henderson challenged pidgeon in the Shawbridge goal. Brian won the ball but the big Shaws keeper went down leaving the Blochairn striker with the easiest of tap ins. Shawbridge had defended well until this point and will be dissapointed at the manner in which the goal was conceded. Pidgeon then left the field with a damaged elbow (speedy recovery big fella) and an outfield player had to take his place in the goals . This gave Blochairn a lift and coupled with the strong second half wind we dominated possession for the remainder of the game, but the stand in goalie done well to protect the Shawbridge goal with the crossbar again denying us from stretching our lead. We also had positive debuts for Sean and John Connell and Kenny Quinn as we improve our squad but on the down side silly yellow cards for Zander and Hendo. Shawbridge will feel that on the balance of play a draw would have been fair but we probably deserved it on our second half display. Shawbridge were at the summit before kick off and should be there or thereabouts throughout the season. Our good start continues with our 8th consecutive win. We are in the west of Scotland cup next week V Strathhaven Dynamo MOM - John Thomson ======================================= ======================================= Blochairn Star 3 DTI 1 We have now faced 3 of the 5 promoted clubs in SSML business and are now certain that the level of competition in the Premier League is going to be the toughest ever. DTI were not at the races for the first 45 minutes and Blocahirn passed round them without making significant chances. Our two goals coming from set peices with a couple of rarities - a Paul Roan header and Kevin Connells first goal for about 13 years :). At 2-0 down and to be fair not in the game at all it would have been easy for DTI to go into hiding the second half but they done nothing of the sort and they battled well for each other and reduced us to half chances - they got a lifeline with about 10 minutes to go as they got a goal from a set peice and put us under a wee bit of pressure. A late goal from Heepsy after a disputed decision was enough to calm the nerves for Blochairn. DTI have improved dramatically since we put 7 past them in April and did not stop working although I am sure they will agree that the better team on the day took the 3 points on a good day for Blochairn. On a note so bright note - this was Craig Brown's last game for the Star before moving to Jakarta - the Flying Pig has played 7 and won 7 for the Budgie and we wish him well. Our search for his replacemnet goes on and I am sure we will find an equal replacement - aye and pigs might fly - good luck Craigy boy.. MOM Paul Roan
======================================= ================================ Kelvinbank Star 2 Blochairn Star 3 Not a pretty game by any stretch of the imagination as Kelvinbank set out their stall to defend and nearly got a well deserved point. we took the lead through Fitzy after some patchy play but it was Craig Brown who was the busier goalie for the rest of the half and just after Frewsy had left the park with a worrying injury Kelvinbank drew level. 1-1 each at the break was probably about fair as Blochairn flattered to decieve. we played for the first 20 minutes of the second half and got 2 goals through Heepsy and Murray and looked very dangerous. We then allowed Kelvinbank back into the game to make it 3-2 with 10 minutes to go - they had another couple of chances before the final whistle - so did we (murray) but Kelvinbank got no reward for their resiliant effort. We played well for 20 minutes, stole 3 points and that was about that. MOM John Conner --=============================================== ============================================= ICC 0 Blochairn Star 2 This was a really big challenge for the first league game of the season. ICC had lost 3 league matches in the past 2 season on their way two claiming a double title success and climb straight from Division 2 to the Premier so were always going to be difficault opponents. Renfrew Council insist on 9.30 kick off which was not ideal and we were certainly late to get into the game and ICC could realistically beemn 3-0 within the first half hour (we would have protested the early kick off:)) - We scored with our first attack as Joe Mc Lusey did well to volley home from a good corner and the goal seed to settle us down. the rest of the first half was eachy peachy. ICC had other chances early in the second half and a couple of really good chances late on but Craig Brown had his best game in a Blochairn Jersey and earned his clean sheet. Heepsy was fouled in the box and converted the penalty after 55 minutes and blochairn could then have went onto score a few more with good chances for Tommo, H.enderson and big Gerry. This was a great victory and we were top of the league for at least a half hour, incidentally longer than we were top for the whole of last season
MOM Craig Brown was just pipped by Kevin Connell ================== Blairdardie 2 Blochairn Star 5
With the losers of this tie being drawn at home to the winner in the last 16 their was not much incentive for either team to commit 100%. So on this occassion a match report would be stretching it. Heepsy got 3 and Gerry got 2 which was encouraging - a couple of needless booking were dissapointing. Blairdardie played within themselves but showed in the second half that when they are up for it they will be difficult opponents - we meet again on the 30th of October for a place in the quarters.
MOM Heepsy ============================================== East Dunbartonshire 1 Blochairn Star 3
Blochairn progressed to the last 16 of the league cup with a good win against a very good side. East Dumbartonshire set the tempo of the game with their slick passing and superb movement but were struck by two sucker punches in the first 10 minutes - Henderson nicked in to get the first and then an unfortunate OG gave us a 2 goal lead. To be fair to ED they never once changed their gameplan and continued to pass the ball. They made it 2-1 before half.
The second half was very much the same and we grabbed a 3rd late on through Frewsy to give us a flattering vicory margin.
Good luck to ED and hope you continue to play the game the way it should be played -
MOM Paul Roan ================================================= =============================================== Blochairn Star 7 Hardgate 3 A half decent first half and half hearted second half saw blochairn take another 3 points in Section 4 of the League Cup. We had led 5-1 at half time courtesy of doubles from Fresy and big Roan and an obligitory Heepsy strike - we were not great in the first half but there were some encouraging signs. Second half saw too many individual performances and Heepsy and Henderson's strikes were matched by Hardgate to see the second half finish level. Can't grumble about the result and Hardgate kept going until the end but this was a very poor second 45 minutes. MOM Robert Frew
Blochairn Star 3 Kelvinbank Star 1 Last years beaten finalists had the honour of kicking off the SSML season against kelvinbank Star in a repeat of last seasons Strathclyde Cup quarter final. Kelvinbank had taken an early lead in that fixture and held out for a draw before progressing to the semis by penalty kicks and this match followed the same pattern for the fist hour. Kelvinbank opened the scoring after 10 minutes and gave as good as they got for the first half and were worthy of their fist half lead - in fact if it had not been for Craig Bown they could have doubled their lead or worse. The second half saw blochairn camped inside the Kelvinbank half and two goals from Gerry and one from Heepsy saw our two top goal scoreres claim the first victory of the season for Blochairn and set us up nicely for the league cup section. next up is Hardgate at Glenconner on Saturday
MOM Joe Mc Lusky
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Blochairn Star 7 SCYP 4 This was a night for the strikers in outr last competite game of 2009 as John Heeps got 5 goals for the second game in a row and big Mick Anderson got an SCYP hat-trick. We were 2-0 up after 20 minutes the first from a Stuart Alexander 25 yarder, his first of the season after coming back from horrendous injury, then a couple of minues later Heepsy spotted Craig Brown a couple of yards off his line ans struck from about 45 yards - an absolute screamer. SCYP pulled one back before Heepsy scored another good goal to make it 3-2 , SCYOP made it 3-2 before the breeak and had another couple of chances to pull level. In the second half Heepsy made it 4-2, then it was 4-3, Heepsy made it 5-3 with a header, then 6-3 from a accute angle. Mick made it 6-4 before Hendo finished from an excellent Tommmo pass. SCYP had us on the ropes fro the rest of the game and there was some very good football played by both teams who had nothing to loose. to be honest neither keeper had a bad game, and there was some absolutely cracking goals. SCYP now concentrate on the strathclyde Cup final while we look forward to a summer were our main aim is to improve our squad for next seasons challenge - this seasons review is now on the News Section. =========================================== ========================================== Clydebank United 3 Blocahirn Star 8 This was a real end of season kick about with neither team having anything to play for - Clydebank were going through the motions with a Cup Final on their minds in a fortnight and Blochairn had the chance to give a couple of players a run out who we are lookign to bring in next season. In fact we played the first 35 minutes with 10 men and were 3-1 up by the time Kevin Connell got ready at the side of the park. Clydebank scored earlt but young Hendo and Chuckie got us 2-1 up before Heepsy scored to make it 3-1 - he got his second of the day shortly after Kev arrived to make it 4-1 at half time. Nothing much to note in the first 20 minutes of the second half before young sub Andy Cameron entered the fray (yes it really was that type of game) and scored one and set up another 3 for Heepsy, while the bankies bagged another 2 - why did I not play myself all season???? Yes the correct answer is cause am pish :) A good day for Heepsy and a match played in good spirits, we wish Clydebank well in the Tommy Marshall final and next up for us is SCYP for our last league game of the season. =============================================== Greenhills Dynamo 5 Blochairn Star 2 Blochairn's title chllenge ended on Saturday with a comprehensive defeat to title favourites Greenhills Dynamo. We had been given a chance following Tynecastles victory in East Kilbride in midweek but sadly could not take it. It was always going to be a big enough challenge without Paul Roan, Zander and John Conner and losing Kevin Connel and Paul Mc Cartney to injury in the first half compounded our woes, although Greenhills also had a weakened squad and had to start with two trialists for such an important game - so both teams were less than full strength but it was Dynamo that got the rewards that their hard work deserved. It could have been so different if John Heeps had taken an early chance to put us ahead and some pressure on Greenhills and we can claim to be quite unlucky to be two down at half time - the first a richoshay off Gary O' Hanlon and the second from a corner that we felt should have been our free kick as Steven Cullie had (in our opinion) fouled Allan Campbell. We put a bit of pressure on the league leaders in the second half and at 2-1 had another wee chance but Greenhill restored their two goal lead quite quickly and then got a fourth. Our second goal was nothing more than a consilation as we quickly handed Dynamo another from a shocking defensive mistake. On the day Greenhills were the much better team and deserved their victory and now is not the time to analyse how we could have got so close in so many competitions but finished the season with nothing. We will look to strenghthen the squad in the summer and there may be a major announcement in the next 2 weeks regarding next season. Greenhill need 3 points this mid week against Forest to claim their first Premier Championship and if they do it we will be the first to congratulate them - they have had a great season and the best team always wins the league, unfortunatley for Blochairn this season, it was not us.
============================================ AS Airdrie 1 Blochairn Star 1 a penalty in the last couple of minutes was enough to means that the SSML title is within our own grasp for the first time since December although we face a gargantuan task and need to beat Greenhills with 2 clear goals and then have away victories against Clydebank United then SCYP. at least we now have a chance. This was a tense game in which Airdrie always looked dangerous on the break abnd Shawsies opener came straight from our corner. They deserved their 1-0 lead at half time. The second half saw us with lions share of possession and the equaliser came in a hectic 10 minute spell where Mc Cartney hit the bar, Allan scored the penalty and Brian was unfortunate with a last gasp over head kick. This may turn out to be a very valuable point. Next up is Greenhills in east Kilbride - a two goal victory is the target, we are not kidding ourselves about how difficult that will be - but we have a chance.
============================================= Blochairn Star 5 St. Mary's 0 Based on this performance St. Mary's will be glad to see the back of this season as this is the worst they have ever performed over the past 4 years. they had a spell between the 10th and 35th minute when they had us under pressure but seemed to chuch it after the second goal. Heepsy got a hat-trick, Jammo and Tommo got one a peice but for every goal there was another glaring miss - none more so than in the 90th minute when our sprightly young sub Andy Cameron missed an absolute sitter from 3 yards with an open goal at his mercy - says he used to be a player but can't see it myself. St Mary's had a couple of first team players out and we will not get it as easy against them next season you can be sure of that.
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Blochairn Star 1 Kelvinbank 1 (Kelvinbank won 6-5 on penalties) In our 5th game in 11 days we went out of the Strathclyde Cup at the quarter final stage and congratulations to Kelvinbank who deserved their victory. We gave a sloppy goal away in 5 minutes then completely dominated proceedings and a combination of great defending and goalkeeping kept us out until the 88th minute when Paul roan equalised - we actually had another two clear cut chances after the equaliser and on the night could have scored 7 or 8 but the Bankies defended very well and hung on for penalties. For the second time in 3 days we lost after on penalties - what a cruel game this can be. ========================================
Blochairn Star 1 Greenhills Dynamo 1 (Greenhills win 9-8 on penalties)
Blochairn played well and lost the cup final in the most dramatic of circumstances as the first 8 players from each trem converted their penalties expertly only for Whytie to save our 9th and greenhills to convert. Greenhills actually scored 10 penalties on the night as Davie Attas second half equaliser also came from the spot. Dissappointing night for everyone at the club especially after David Murray had given us a first half lead and we also squanderered a couple of guilt edged chances. Congratulations to Greenhills who won the first leg of what could be an incredible treble - for our part we know that their is not much between both teams and with a stroke of luck or refereeing decision we might have got some reward. ============================================
Blochairn Star 4 Shawbridge 1 This was a well deserved 3 points as we turned out for our third match in 5 days. Shawbridge took the lead early on but a determined Blochairn fought back to lead at half time with goals from Centre Halfs Allan Campbell and Gary Mc Guire. there were a barrage of chances in the second half and Pidgeon produced some magnificent saves to keep the margin to one. With barry Scally up front Shawbridge were always liable to nick one so it was a great relief when Tommo ran 40 yards before powering home the 3rd. John Heeps came on late in the game and latched onto a short pass back to round Pidgeon to make it 4 in what was a good nights work for Blochairn. We can get a rest now before our next game against Greenhills Dynamo in the League Cup final in 4 days time. This will be a very very tough fixture.
============================================ ============================================= Blochairn Star 1 Tynecastle 1 Greenhills and SCYP were the big winners here as the champions and former champions battled to a 1-1 draw. There were not many chances created in the first half but Tynecastle opened the scoring with a great Taylor effort midwat through the half, this was probably Tynecastles only effort on target for the 90 minutes. Although the champs deserved there lead at the break as they enjoyed the lions share of possession. It was a different story the second half as Blochairn created numerous chances. Allan Campbell missed his first penalty of the season after Mc Cartney had been pulled down by the keeper 10 minutes into the half. It could have been argued that a clear cut goal scoring opportunity had been denied and that the keeper should have walked - the similar punishment recieved by Gary mc Gowan in the corresponding fixture in January. The keeper stayed on and we missed the penalty. The equaliser came with about 20 minutes to go as Paul Clayton played in Paul roan and the big midfielder finished tidily. Tynecastle were reduced to 10 then 9 men before this game was up but we did not have enough time left to make the numerical advantage count. A good opportunity to put pressure on the leaders was squandered by both clubs and what turned out to be a very good game. Next up for us is Shawbridge on Monday night which will be our 7th game in 3 weeks - it was in this corresponding fixture last season that our 3 in a row hopes were extinguished and the Shaws have also had an impact on our challenge this season with a 5-2 league victory earlier in the campaign. ============================================= =============================================
Victoria Park 1 Blochairn Star 2 Another tough Wednesday night shift on a not so great park but this was a great win for Blochairn in what was our toughest league fixture of the campaign so far. Victoria Park were dogged and resolute but also had a couple of excellent players, and will feel very unlucky not to take anything from this game. A Victoria Park penalty at the end of the first half cancelled out Paul Mc Cartneys opener after a half an hour, the only other real chance of the first half saw David Murray smash a shot off the bar. The second half was a real battle with both teams going for it and Victoria Park gave as good as they got, we got a wee break with ten minutes to go as Jammo squared and big Mc Cartney got his second and most important goal for the club since his switch from Hogganfield at the start of the season. If Victoria Park can maintain this type of form and desire they could be real challengers for the SSML Premier next season. Next up are champions Tynecastle at Glenconner. =============================================== =========================================== Mossblown 2 Blochairn Star 1 Travelling to Ayrshire for a 6.00 kick off was never going to be ideal, particulalry for a game of such magnitude to the club (and SSML) however we had to deal with that, our predicament was made worse as John Conner, Allan Campbell, Kevin Connell, Paul Roan and Gery Hughes were unavailable but we had 13 first team players. Our problems were exasperated further when we saw the "park" we were playing on as it was impossible to roll the ball for more than 5 yards. this is sounding like excuses already......:) During the 90 minutes we adjusted our game to match Mossblown and gave as good as we got - they opened the scoring with 20 minutes to, and Tommo equalised with an absolute nailer with 15 minutes remaining.both teams created little in way of clear cut chances, although we always felt that extra time would suit us as we tried to stretch the game. On the 90th minute Mossblown got a throw in and as the ref stood on the touchline he pointed towards the box as the ball went out. The 22 players thought he had given a bye kick until he indicated a penalty award for what he said was a handball offence - he must have been the only person in Ayrshire to see a handball - the gauling thing is that the official had had an excellent game until this point. The penalty was dispatched and the final whistle blew and it was a really sickening exit to the West after such a long season. Both teams deserve credit for what proved to be an great battle and good luck to the Ayrshire men in the quarters.
============================================= ============================================= Blochairn Star 6 Forest 0 In our second game in 36 hours John Heeps got his second hat trick, (his 3rd in 3 games) Jammo got a double and a Forest OG meant that the 3 points were claimed by blochairn ========================================== ============================================ Blocahirn Star 5 Rossvale 0 Rossvale played well in the first 45 minutes and only a John Heeps strike seperated the teams. In the second half Blochairn upped the tempo and Heepsy scored two quick goals followed by an Allan Campbell and Paul Roan strike were enough to secure passage to the quarter finals of the Strathclyde Cup for the first time in 4 seasons. ============================================== ======================================== Blochairn Star 5 Dunbreac 2 Firstly a massive thats to Stuart and the lads at Dunbreac for changing the fixture at the last minute as Stepford was waterlogged at 8.30 and they agreed to play on the outside park at Glenconner, also a big thanks to the Council for lining the park at such late notice. This was a funny sort of game as Blochairn dominated in terms of possession and were playing some nice stuff in the first two thirds of the park but were lacking a cutting edge in front of goal. And at 1-0 and particulalry at 3-2 Dunbreac made it interesting but we always felt in control of the game. Heepsy got his second hat-trick of the season with two tap ins and a spectacular lob, a penalty for Gerry and a first goal for the club from Tommo made it a satisfying morning. Also we had 3 players make their debut for the club and a return to the squad (for the first time this year) for Jamie Elliot who got the last half hour. Paul Roan, David Murray and Gary Mc Guire were rested and Allan Campbell served a club ban for his silly sending off last week. So all in all a decnt mornings work and we progress to the next round of the Strathclyde Cup against Rossvale this Thursday evening. Dunbreac scored a great free kick and made it 3-2 with about 25 minutes to go but will now concentrate on the Tommy Marshall Cup. We are still going in 4 tournaments and unbeaten in 2010 but April promisies to be a massive month for the club with some massive games coming up starting with a double header in 36 hours against Rossvale on thursday night and Forest on Saturday morning. We will then be in west of Scotland action with the league cup final to look forward to at the ============================================ ============================================
Blochairn Star 2 AS Airdrie 1 After a nervy finish Blochairn progressed to the final of the League Cup for the first time in our history. two goals midway through the first half from david Murray gave Blochairn some breathing space at half time for what was probably a deserved lead at the interval. The first came after about 25 minutes as Murray beat the offside trap to slot past Johnny who had already made a couple of decent saves. This was a good finish by Murray but I doubt that this goal would have been given if there were no Referees Assistants. Murray was a yard onside when the pass was made but it is hard to think that a referee alone would have awarded the goal as Murray was so fast onto the pass. The linesman would prove his worth again later in the game as he spotted a foul committed by Allan Campbell which meant the Blochairn centre back had to walk. Murray's second goal 5 minutes later took a wicked deflection to beat Johnny and at the break Blochairn looked comfortable. We created further chances in the second half with Gerry Hughes coming close with a couple of spectacular efforts. But as the half developed AS Airdrie started to come back into the game and in fact were in the ascendancy for the last 20 minutes or so. They got a deserved penalty with 5 minutes remaining and big Gogs was very unlucky with a diving header in the last minute which would have taken the tie to penalties. If this game would have went for another 5 minutes AS Airdrie looked good for at least a draw and it would be easy to say that Blochairn stopped playing, but that would take away from the resolute fightback by the Diamonds. Threre is a fine line between success and failure in football and during the last 5 minutes of the game Allan Campbell was booked, AS Airdrie scored a penalty, Heepsy missed two very very good chances and then big Goggs hit the post before Allan Campbell is sent off for a silly second foul. Unlucky AS Airdrie but over the peice we probably just shaded it. Paul McCartney took a bad knock to the knee and could miss a couple of games and Allan Campbell will also miss some very important forthcoming fixtures but on a brighter note we did progress to our first League Cup final in our 8 yers history where we play either Greenhills Dynamo or SCYP at lesser Hampden on Friday 30th April - should be a cracker.
================================================ ============================================= Blochairn Star 3 Lomond Rock 0 aet (0-0 at 90 mins) Blochairn were well below par for the visit of the Rock but restricted the visitors to only a couple of half chances for the first 90 minutes. We also had a couple of half chances but not enough to trouble the Dumbarton teams keeper. Lomond Rock had a copule of decent players, particulalry their Captain and striker who was a real handful but when we came to grips with this threat we never looked in any danger of losing this game.the opener came 2 minutes into the extra time period as gerry Hughes bullet header was stopped illegally (by hand) on the line by the Rock defender. Definate penalty and by the rules of the game he had to walk. Allan Campbell dispatched ...again. We went onto dominate the extra period and were rewarded by goals from Gary Mc Guie and Paul Roan. We will face a much stiffer test this weekend when we play AS Airdrie in the semi final of the league cup. If we play the way we did against Lomond Rock most teams in the SSML would have put us to the sword on Saturday so we need to improve. Good luck to Lomond Rock for the rest of their season and they have a real chance of winning their league - we wish them well. ============================================= =====================================================================
Blochairn Star 1 SCYP 1 In a very tense match were both teams battles well but failed to create any real chances a draw was probably about the fairest result. Although the implications of the points dropped could be more damaging for Blochairn as we are now 3 points behind SCYP having played the same games - we a further 4 points behind pace setters Grenhills Dynamo who are 7 ahead having played a game more - we have off course still to play both teams but for the first time this season the league we would need favours. There was not much to write about in terms of chances created but SCYP led at half time by virtue of an outstanding strike on about 20 minutes. SCYP were shutting Blochairn down all over the park and looked good for the 3 points on their first half performance. The introduction of Gerry Hughes at half time gave Blochairn a lift and it was his through ball which set up Paul Roan for the equaliser. We had a couple of half chances but it was SCYP who had the best chance of the game as Gary Hughes headed against the post from about 3 yards out with a couple of minutes left on the clock. a good game and we will see as the season develops how important this point may turn out to be. Next up for blochairn is Lomond Rock, in the west of Scotland, who have been flying in their league and both national cup competitions - it will certainly be a test if we are to progress to the last 16. ----------------------------------------------------------------St. Mary's 1 Blochairn Star 7 this was Blochairn's biggest ever victory over St Mary's and on todays performance it was well meritted. David Murray got 4 - his 10th goal in 4 games, a Paul roan double and a John heeps strike were the Blochairn counters and a spectacular overhead kick was the st Mary's only strike. Blochairn came out of the traps fastest and were 1-0 after 5 minutes - a David Murray header, Paul Roan made it 2-0 with another headed goal and Murray got his second and 3rd before Heepsy scored to make it 5-0. St Mary's spectacular effort came on the stroke of half time. Dissapointingly Blochairn did not have the same desire in the second half but scored two good goals through Murray and Roan whose second goal of the day came after a move that had more than 20 passes.. This was a very good performance against a good St. Mary's side whom to be fair were a bit shell shocked after half an hour. Things are coming together nicely and it is dissapointing that we did not display this kind of performance and form earlier in the season as we may have been in a challenging position for the league title. We face an uphill task this Saturday as we face SCYP who are very much the team to beat in the SSML. On form Murray misses out as does club captain Zander with an injury. Gerry Hughes our top scorer is currently suspended. This will be a real test for Blochairn in what has become our biggest game of the season so far. ================================================ Shawbridge 1 Blochairn Star 5 We had not beaten Shawbridge in our previous 3 attempts and as they went 1-0 up after 5 minutes and bizzarley had a chance stopped on the line by mud befoer this it looked like a hard task for Blochairn. However without the influence of Pidgeon, Barry and Thommo Shawbridge lacked any cutting edge and Blochairn ran out comfortable winners. An early equaliser by Allan Campbell the a David murry strike meant we led 2-1 at the break - incidetly the same score as the league encounter earlier in the season were Shawbridge came back to win 5-2, not today though as Murray scored his 6th goal in 3 games having carried the ball the length of the park, Heepsy robbed the centre back to score and Paul Mc Cartney came off the bench to noth the 5th. This was a good win but we will not take too much from a game against an under strength Shaws. ================================================
DTI 0 Blochairn Star 7 For the second week running the fixture was swapped due to a frozen pitch at Glenconner. this could have been risky giving up home advantage for a quarter final tie but with a fixture back log in the post it was the sensible decision. As it turned out the surface turned out to be really good which allowed us to keep the ball on the deck and play some good stuff. DTI by their own admission had key players missing and it showed as Blochairn dominated proceeding from start to finish. Stuart Alexander, Paul Mc Cartney were missing for Blochairn and top scorer Gerry Hughes dropped to the bench. Goals from Heepsy, Paul Roan, Allan Campbell and a hat trick for David Murray, made it 6-0 and Gerry came off the bench to add a 7th in what was a good performance and result. there were further chances but Ross Waugh performend well in goal for DTI. Credit to DTI who tried to play football right up to the end but on the day were beaten by a better team. Next up for Blochairn is Shawbridge in the Strathclyde Cup (our 4th competition in as many games) 1st round at Hamilton Palace.
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Tynecastle 2 Blochairn Star 2 A frozen pitch at Glenconner saw the fixture switched to Lochend for a game that everyone was keen to get on. Blochairn strted well and had a couple of half chances before Tynecastle had a decent penalty claim knocked back. Blochairn were looking dangerous and after a sustained period of pressure gor the opening goal as on fire Gerry Hughes headed home from a Paul Mc Cartney cross. Blochairn seemed to be winning the midfeild battle when a great through ball saw Mark Mackay through on goal, Gary mc Gowan's tackle was late for a clear penalty but as Mark mathieson had tucked in well to cover it came as a surpise to everyone in the blochairn camp that Mc Gowan was ordered off with a straight red card. Mackay converted the penalty and if our task was not hard enough with 10 men against the champions away from home, on form striker Gerry Hughes had a moment of madness from the resultant kick off and lashed out at a Tynecaslt player and was rightly red carded. Tynecastle swarmed over Blocahirn fro the rest of the half and went ahead just before the interval when Sean Cahill scored from close range. Amazingly the nine men of blochairn created more chances in the second period with David Murray levelling after fantastic build up play between hima nd Paul Roan and we then had a couple of very good goal scoring opportunities with Mc Cartney blazing over with an open goal at his mercy, although the big man can't be faulted as he and his 8 team mates had put in a great shift. It remains to be seen how vital these 2 dropped points will be for both clubs but this was certainly a good result for SCYP and Greenhills Dynamo. This was a great game and apart from a minute of madness and was played in a competitive spirit all over the park, the referee actually had a very good game but he knows that we will need to agree to disagree about the first and vital sending off. Next up is DTI in the quarter final of the league cup as we try to progress to the last four for the first time in 6 years.
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Paisley AFC 1 Blochairn Star 4 Blochairn were 1-0 after only 5 minues as Gerry Hughes calmly slotted home after good work by Heeps and Mc Cartney - the big striker looked to have converted from an offside position but the referee spotted a Paisley full back had been playing him on. Blochairn went on to create further chances as the half progressed and James Mc Grotty finished well from a Paul mc Cartney pass to make it 2-0 after about 35 minutes. blochairn were defending well and chances for Paisley were few and far between and the half finished 0-2. Paisley played wekll for the first 15 minuts of the second half and as Blochairn made 3 changes we seemed to lose our shape a bit. Paisley made it 2-1 and had a couple of half chances before McCarney raced clear, played in gerry Hughes who converted from 25 yards for his 8th goal in 4 games. the games was put out of sight when Alexander was fouled in the box, the Paisley keeper made a good stop to foil Gerry for his hat-trick but Mc Cartney's hard work paid off as he converted the rebound for a good win. Blochairn progress to a home 5th round tie and we wish Paisley all the best for the rest of the season. ============================================ Blochairn Star 4 Clydebank United 3 After a full 7 week lay off Blochairn played our fist fixture of 2010 and recorded a 4-3 victory over a weakened Clydebank United team who were missing important players (Denny and Paul Rodden) in particular. Blochairn started well and were 2-0 coming up to half time via a penalty from Allan Campbell and a Gerrry Hughes strike. Although as has been the case for so often this season we took our foot off the gas and allowed our opponents back into the game. Cludebank scored the first of their 2 penalty awards just before the break and then midway through the second half aftef Heepsy had restored our two goal lead. Gerry then made it 4-2 with a rare attack but the Clydebank men got back in the game with a strike with about 5 minutes to go, although the ball looked as it was clearly out in the build up. Any credit that goes to blochairn is that we held out for the 3 points and the Bankies deseved at least a draw. A good game between two sides who had been out of action for a long spell and blochairn were lucky to take all 3 points.
=================================================== Blochairn Star 2 Greenhills Dynamo 3 This was the second time in 4 games that blochairn had led in an important match by 2-1 only to lose the game 3-2 while haveing a man sent off. This was an excellent game of football in which both team played attractive football, had periods of dominance and had some big missed chances. Greenhills scored after 30 seconds, 6 passes after kick off and Jordan Mc Intyres cross landed in big Graemes top corner for the kind of start that is impossible to legislate for. Blochairn fought back weel with 2 goals from Gerry Hughes, the first after he harried the defender and finished well, the second an outstanding header from a great Marc Mc Donnell cross. Before that Gary O'hanlon had a great chance to put the visitors ahead but big Graeme did well to save. Whytie then had a good save from Paul roan and Big Grame finished the half clawing a David Atha effort from under the crossbar. A good first period that was end to end. Greenhills dominated most of the proceedings in the second half although Blochairn were continuing to look dangerous on the break. The East Kilbride men had Blochairn on the back foot and were making us defend deeper and deeper although to be fair they created very little in the way of clear cut chances. the equaliser came with less than 15 minutes to go as Davis Atha's cross was met at the back post by Gary O'Hanlon. 2 minues later John Heeps repeted O'Hanlons feat from the first half as he was one on one with the keeper after great work by Hughes only to scluff his shot - Heepsy will bounce back, but our title challege is now hanging by a threat with 2 defeats in 5 games. Paul mc Cartney was sent off for stupidly retaliating to Davie Atha and then the winner came 30 seconds into injury time as Steven Cullie won a back post header, it was knocked back accross for John Paul Hughes to get a last gasp winner which Dynamo will feel they deserved on the balance of possession in the second half. This was a good game played in the right spirit and credit to Greenhill Dynamo who battled to the end, they are a good side. Well done to Airdrieonians on Saturday who progresses to the 5th round of the Scottish and to SCYP who drew 1-1 with last years runners up Hurlford in Round 4. Good luck to them and the other SSML clubs in the next rounds of the majors.
-----------------------------------------------------------Blochairn Star 4 AS Airdrie 2 This was always going to be a difficult encounter against the 2007/08 runners up and an As Airdrie team whom Blochairn have always found difficult opponents. The airdrie lads had played only one copmetitve match in the past 4 weeks and this would have an eefect later in the game but they started on fire and scored the opening goal within the first 5 minutes. Airdrie had us on the back foot for much of the early game with Ally causing us lots of problems. And the Airdrie lads will be dissapointed with the manner in which they lost two first half goals, firstly a corner was pingponged around the box before Paul Roan got the final touch to equalise and then a Stuart Alexander free kick was dispatched by allan Campbell to give Blochairn a 2-1 half time lead that was hardly merited. The second half had the same number of goals for each team but the performance was completey different. Blochairn dominated the match and scored a belter of a 3rd goals as Jamie Elliot met a john Heeps cross and volleyed over the keepers head with the lightest of touches. We then scored a goal that involved about 20 passes with david Mkurray attempting to square to Paul mc Cartney but the defender deflecting into his own net - although Murray will be credited with the goal. As Airdrie pushed to get back into the game their lack of mathc time was starting to show and glaring holes were found in their defence but Blochairn could not capatilise. As Airdrie got their second with about 10 miutes to go and the Blochairn defence will now that the ball should have been cleared much sooner. Credit to AS Airdrie who never gave up but blochairn deserved the points particularly on the second half showing. This league is shaping up to be one of the tightest in years and this was a very good 3 points.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blochairn Star 7 Glencastle Sparta 2
This was an emphatic victory afgainst the Scottish Amatuer Premirt League side who had led 2-1 after 30 minutes. Goals from Heeps (3), Mc Donnell, Campbell, Murray and Clayton as Blochairn had a surprisingly easy victory over a side that had looked immpressive for the first half hour. We are now away in the 4th round which will take place on 12th of December - Christmas night out anyone? Blochairn Star 2 Dalkeith MW 3 (AET) It would have taken a lot to beat our game from last week but this encounter got very close. blochairn had led 2-0 through two David Murray strikes and had led up to 25 minutes to go. For the first hour of this game Blochairn had played our best for a long long time and were well worhty of our 2 goal lead and could and probably should have exteded that lead through numerous chances. Dalkeith pulled one back and had us under pressure before a last man challenge by John Conner led to a penaly for the East coast team and Blochairn being reduced to 10 men. They converted and were on level terms with 8 minutes to go. to be honest they bombarded us for the rest of regulation 90 minutes. Extra time saw chances for both teams but it was an exceptional strike with the last kick of the ball at the end of the first period that was enough to secure passage to the forth round for Dalkweith. they really were a good team and we wish them well for the rest of the season. Dalkeith MW 3 Blocahirn Star 3 In Blochairn's first competitive game outside of Glasgow we managed to secure a 3-3 draw against a very good Dalkeith side. We led within the forst minute through Paul Mc Cartney only for Dalkeit to draw level after 15 minutes. Mc Cartney then scored an absolute belter of a volley to make it 2-1 but again the lead was short lived as Dalkeith equalised. James Mc grotty had the ball over the line just before the break but unfortunately the ref ruled that the ball had not crossed - this was an error by the ref who otherwise had a great game. We were on top in the second half but it was Dalkeith who took the lead with 15 minutes to go and looked good to progress. However John Heeps got us level with a good header just before Dalkeith nearly pinched it but John Conner cleared at the last ditch. A very good game against a very good team who we look forward to welcoming to the Jimmy Mc Grory next Saturday - you would'nt bet on the outcome of this replay. Blochairn Star 4 St. Mary's 2 Blochairn led 2-0 and were looking comfortable as a deserved pemnalty was converted by Allan Campbell and Paul Mc Cartney doubled the lead after a well worked move. However St. Mary's fought back well to make it 2-1 with a good header just before the break. Blochairn were on top again in the early exchanges in the second half but Mark Tait was given too much room at the side of the box and showed how deadly he can be to make it 2-1. Blochairn continued to have most of the ball but st. Mary's never took a guilt edged chance to make it 3-2. With the game heading towards penalty - gerry Hughes headed to penalise slack defending by St. Mary's after David Murray had done really well. James Mc Grotty who had only been on the park for 10 minutes sealed the win with a late goal. Blchairn progressed to the last 8 and this was a really good game.
Weirs Recreation 0 Blochairn Star 3
A Gerry Hughes hat-trick was the difference between the Caley League team and the SSML former champions with the big man back to top form scoring a fine header just before the break and a left foot, then right foot strike late in the game. This was a game which Blochairn dominated and there were further chances for Mc Ilroy, Mc Donnell, Mc Cartney, and Heepsy. Weirs had one real chance mid way through the first half but Sneddon did well to block and Mc Guire was alert to clear the rebounded effort. Weirs had a fantasic set up and the playing surface was immaculate (and massive). they battled hard in the second half but will concede that Blochairn deserved to progress on the day. This was a good test for the SSML team and we wish Weirs all the best for the rest of the season.
Redbrae 1 Blochairn Star 3
Blochairn progressed to the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup courtesy of a good away win in Kirkintilloch. In a very good team performance Blochairn came back from an early goal to ddominate the match and were, in the end worthy winners.
The last time these clubs met in the SSML at John Brown's Forest took thwe full 3 points with a well deserved 2-1 victory - this was in season 2007/08, the season blochairn went on to claim our second title in a row - this clash ended 10 - 1 to Blochain.
Blochairn Star 8 Kelvinbridge 0
Marc Mc Donnell got 3 and Jammo got 2 but it was new boy Paul Mc Cartney who stood out today with 4 assists and tirless working back for the team.
Early goals from Fitzy and Gerry, followed by a first half sending off for a Greenhills United player should have made this semi-final straight forward but all credit must go to the second division side who fought for every ball and may have forced this tie to penalties with a little bit of luck.
It was a bridge too far for Blochairn as the Shaws ran out worthy winners in this top of the table clash. Shawbrridge completeley dominated the opening 45 minutes and if it had not been for big Davie would have been much more than the one goal margin courtesy of a well worked corner. Shawbridge were causing us problems in all departments and if they continue this form they may well complete the season with another 5 wins which could give them their first title. Greenbank United 1 Blochairn Star 5
Two first half volleys by Brian Henderson and second half headers from Fitzy and Allan Campbell and a tap in from Marc Mc Donnell (he will be raging while he reads this !!!) where enough to secure the 3 points at Giffnock.
Shawbridge 1 Blochairn Star 1
This was a fantastic game of football and great credit to all the players involved who gave 100% to their teams cause although barry Scallys equaliser for Shawbridge with virtually the last kick of the ball has all but extinguished Blochairn's drive for 3 in a row. 02 March 2009
Shawbridge 1 Blochairn Star 1
This was a fantastic game of football and great credit to all the players involved who gave 100% to their teams cause although barry Scallys equaliser for Shawbridge with virtually the last kick of the ball has all but extinguished Blochairn's drive for 3 in a row. 02 March 2009
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