Success on the Sabbath

'Twas the sabbath and a long trip to the granite city awaited for the eager 'sonians. The Aberdeen club had started the season well and were unbeaten after 5 fixtures. A streak the boys in maroon were looking to put an end to.

The game started brightly for the away side and despite a filthy and soggy pitch they took control early on. A composure was apparent throughout the side as they knocked the ball about and linked well. Eventually the pressure told and a short corner was awarded for the maroon men. Sutherland's first effort was charged down well but some nice recovery work meant that a second corner was awarded. This time the midfield man made no mistake. 1-0 to Watsonians.

It was to be expected at this stage that the away team would capitalise on their early dominance but they couldn't find a way to convert their continued pressure. Chances came and went but they couldn't find a way through. A short spell with 10 thanks to Sutherland's ill discipline was managed well as the away side still kept control of the match. No breakthrough was to be had before the half time whistle.

Half time. GCW 0 - 1 Watsonians

The second half proved more of the same for 'sonians. Good composure again meant that the ball was passed about well and any half chances for the home side were snuffed out well with the experienced Campbell marshalling the defence well.

Once again the pressure told and the spaces in attack began to open up for the Edinburgh side. Some nice link up play lead to chances for Katsipanos, Wynd and McKenna but all 3 failed to find the target as the elusive 2nd goal escaped them.

Eventually the maroon men were offered the chance to double the lead from a short corner. However the previously efficient Sutherland wasn't able to find his range and he slid his effort wide. A further few corner opportunities came and went as Sutherland again failed to connect and began to highlight himself as a potential DOD candidate.

The game ticked on and the missed chances were beginning to pile an unnecessary pressure on the away side. Those spectating could have been forgiven for thinking that the away side's defence would eventually cave. But cave they didn't and as a rare Granite city attack was stopped in it's tracks the 'sonians counter attack was sparked into life. A quick pass from McCurdy found Wynd in acres of space in the centre of the pitch. Wynd drove towards the circle at pace and looked to isolate the GCW defence. He shifted the ball cutely on to his front stick and then slipped the ball past defender and goalkeeper to a poaching McKenna who happily slotted the ball in to the empty goal. An important goal but a goal that was truly deserved based on the run of play.

The Granite men didn't lie down at this stage though as they switched their keeper for a kicking back to attempt to find a way back in to match. Watsonians kept their focus though and Campbell and his defensive troops were determined to keep the first clean sheet of the season. Good outlet play from Hollis relieved some pressure before Beattie took ownership of the game and calmed the play to see out a convincing victory for the Edinburgh outfit.

Final score: GCW 0 - 2 Watsonians

A good match and a deserved victory for the team. A big thank you too to our hosts for having us back after the match and giving us some food before the journey back.

Mom: L Hollis
Dod: C Beattie