EAST KILBRIDE THISTLE GIRLS UNDER 15S 3 AYR UNITED 1

EAST KILBRIDE THISTLE GIRLS UNDER 15s 3 AYR UNITED 1

East Kilbride maintained their incredible league record of winning every league game in 2012 and 2013, although for much of the game it appeared that the teams would grind out a draw.

The teams were evenly matched and even though both teams had chances to score neither team could find the back of the net. The majority of opportunities for the home team came from the rocket propelled feet of Laura Inglis, whose pace gave her a number of chances. After thirty-five minutes, she pounced on the ball twenty yards from goal and the gap between her and the defence grew larger, before she fired the ball home.

East Kilbride could count themselves lucky to go in at half time with a goal. Goalkeeper Emma Clarke was equal to every shot and had an outstanding first half. The defence was also resolute with the solid centre pairing of Scottish Cup winner Stephanie Reilly and Tamsin Shaw, with Amy Borthwick and Megan McNicol protecting the flanks.

However, Ayr started the second half very strongly and an early run up the wing resulted in a golden chance in the middle of the box, which brought the scores level. There was another period, where neither team were able to take command, and another goal appeared to be very unlikely.

With ten minutes to go, East Kilbride Thistle won a corner which was swung in by Katie Craigie and met by Cara McGurn who volleyed the ball into the net. With five minutes remaining, Cara McGurn, Team Captain was first to a loose ball to add her third goal in two games. Her chance had been won by Hannah Johnston, whose never say die attitude saw her tackle three players, and lead to the ball crawling into the box waiting to be despatched to the goal.

Special mention needs to be given to Megan Mcfarlane and Stephanie Edmondson who were making their under 15 debuts and never looked out of place.

TEAM: EMMA CLARKE, AMY BORTHWICK, STEPHANIE REILLY, TAMSIN SHAW, CARA MCGURN, STEPHANIE EDMONDSON, HANNAH JOHNSTON, LAURA INGLIS, KATIE CRAIGIE, MEGAN MCFARLANE, STEPHANIE EDMONDSON.