Clydebank 0
Ayr Utd 1
League (Division 2)

Match Report

Clydebank put up a spirited display against newly-promoted Ayr United, despite ultimately falling short with a 0-1 defeat. While the visitors were deserved winners, Clydebank's dogged defending and late attacking flurry earned them plaudits from their home crowd.

The opening half belonged to Ayr United, who dominated possession with their slick passing and sturdy defence. Clydebank's young forward pairing of Jimmy Caskie and Gerry O'Brien struggled to find their rhythm, frequently caught offside in their attempts to break the offside trap.

However, credit must be given to young goalkeeper Mick McDonald, making his debut for Clydebank after Dick Madden's injury. McDonald commanded his area with confidence, proving a worthy successor between the sticks. His impressive performance delayed Ayr United's breakthrough until just five minutes before the break. A high ball from the right wing found its way to Ayr United's centre-forward Ingram, who directed a powerful header past McDonald despite a valiant diving attempt.

Clydebank emerged from the break with renewed determination, playing a more fluid and attacking game. The Ayr United defence began to creak under sustained pressure, with O'Brien, Alan Munro, and Caskie all threatening the goal in quick succession. Douglas Hay nearly found the equaliser from a corner, but his effort sailed just wide.

A controversial moment arrived in the 70th minute when O'Brien was brought down on the edge of the Ayr United penalty area. The resulting free-kick caused chaos in the Ayr United box, with Hawkshaw's attempt cleared for another corner.

The closing stages saw tempers flare once more. Ayr United's "wing wizard" Rough forced another save from McDonald, with the ball rebounding towards the goal. A scramble ensued between Ferguson, Hawkshaw (a former Ayr United player), Mitchell, Fallon, and McDonald, with the young Clydebank goalkeeper eventually smothering the loose ball.

Bobby Love limped off injured late on, replaced by Gray. Despite this setback, Clydebank threw everything at Ayr United in the final three minutes. Munro, Caskie, O'Brien, and Hawkshaw all unleashed shots towards the Ayr United goal, forcing goalkeeper Stewart to work overtime. In the end, Ayr United held on for a narrow victory, but Clydebank's determined fightback ensured their supporters witnessed a thrilling finale to the season.

The hope amongst the Clydebank faithful is that this fighting spirit will carry over into the new season, allowing them to build upon this valiant performance.

Match report written by and adapted by Stuart McBay