The Reds slumped to another 2 1 league defeat, this time at the hands of their Broadbay rivals Back. On a windy cold night in Coll, the Reds couldn’t really get going and despite doing most of the attacking throughout the evening, couldn’t pierce a strong resolute Back defence, marshaled superbly by Campbell Macdonald. At the other end it was gifting cheap set pieces compounded by poor marking which allowed Back the chances to win the match.
The Reds started with Gordie in goal, Scott, Ali G, Elliot and Daniel. The midfield was Stew, Rob and Angus with Wally supported by Andrew Mac and Andrew Mo. The Reds started well with Andrew Mo in particular looking sharp down the left. Indeed it was his quick thinking from a throw in that set Wally scampering away down the inside left channel. Wally squared it invitingly for Andrew Mac who did the business and slotted the ball past Mikey in the Back goal. 1 0 and things looking good for the Reds who continued to have the lions share of possession.
There followed a couple of scrambles in the Back box, one of which was headed off the line after Mikey had spilled the ball. If only that had gone in! Back then equalised when Campbell was given the freedom of Upper Coll to head beyond Gordie from 6 yards out from a free kick. Coach Stoodie was going ballistic on the sidelines, giving Bombie a run for his money. Conner Mackay also had a chance for Back, latching on to a short back pass, but Gordie did well to stay big and block the shot before collecting the rebound.
Into the second half and the Reds won loads of corners but the Blues defended well and were still a threat on the break, although they were few and far between. Coach Stoodie threw Angus up to right wing and it almost had an immediate impact, his cross evading two or three Rudhachs sliding in at the back post. The Reds were beginning to turn the screw but then, disaster. A monster goal kick by Mikey in the Back goal could only be headed out for a corner by Elliot. As the corner came in a scramble ensued and there was Jason Macleod to hammer the ball home beyond Gordie.
The Reds pushed and pushed but couldn’t find that elusive goal as Blue jerseys threw themselves in to tackles. Corners came and were cleared brilliantly if not headed inches past the post. In the last minute a nice ball by Daniel was head flicked over the keeper by Stew Munro but bounced agonisingly wide of the post. Soon after the ref blew the whistle. Gutted.
Moment of match: Back have a sponsor for each game. Tonight’s sponsor was AJ Moley and Kenny Fiach. For a small fee they get a fancy seat, a complimentary bottle of water and a cuppa at half time. I think it is a good idea and one the Rudhachs should steal. Maybe we could offer the same but add a bit of quality baking into the mix!
Man of the match: Daniel Macleod. Improving with every game in his relatively new left back role.
