Stirling Albion 2
Clydebank 0
League (Division 2)

Match Report

Despite a lacklustre performance, Albion secured a narrow victory against a spirited young Clydebank side.

The youthful energy of the Bankies exposed Albion's sluggishness at times. Their crisp passing in midfield was pleasing on the eye, but their attacks lacked the bite to truly trouble the Binos defence, where sweeper Thomson was a rock throughout the match.

Albion's creative spark was missing. Their link-up play faltered, prompting the substitution of Henderson for Stewart at half-time, but the change had little impact. The Bankies backline, marshalled by the impressive Ruddy, effectively neutralized Albion's attack, shutting down their most potent threat, Hughes.

The home side did manage to scrape a first-half lead, but their overall performance left much to be desired. It was McKinnon who salvaged the points for Albion with a well-struck free-kick after goalkeeper Madden made a crucial error outside his area.

While Albion can be thankful for the win, their display was far from convincing. Thomson, McKinnon, Peebles, and Hughes were their standout performers, but credit must be given to the Clydebank backline, with Ruddy, Hay, Hawkshaw, and Woods putting in a battling performance that deserved more on the day.

Match report written by and adapted by Stuart McBay