Rothes 1
Clydebank 2
Scottish Cup (1st Preliminary Round)

Match Report

No glory awaited the valiant efforts for Rothes of McKessack Park as the Highland League team lost out but surely earned a draw and another chance at victory.

Both sides delivered a lacklustre performance marked by erratic kicking and scrappy play. Rothes' objective was to hold out until half-time, a feat they achieved thanks to dismal finishing by the visiting attackers and resolute defence by home side.

Winning the toss, Bankies capitalised on a strong wind advantage. Despite forcing their first corner, which was cleared by Rothes, they struggled to make the most of the favourable conditions. Rothes found it challenging to advance against the wind, remaining confined to their own half initially.

A swift pass from centre forward Russell found winger Rankin, whose shot narrowly missed the target. Despite the pressure from Clydebank, their forwards failed to capitalise on the wind advantage, and Rothes' goalkeeper had little to do in the opening quarter-hour.

Rothes' defence fought gallantly, aided by Clydebank's poor finishing. Clydebank came close to scoring when Russell narrowly missed a chance, and Gallagher intervened to deny Rankin a clear opportunity.

As Rothes held firm, their chances of gaining the upper hand increased, and they demonstrated resilience in the face of a tough challenge. The Rothes fans clamoured for a penalty when Middler seemed to be fouled, but the referee waved play on.

Clydebank continued to struggle in front of goal, with promising build-up play breaking down at crucial moments. Just before half time, Middler narrowly missed connecting with a cross from Hay.

Rothes took the lead three minutes into the second half when McRae beat Collumbine and provided a perfect cross for Todd to head home. However, Rothes suffered a setback when Gallagher had to be substituted due to a head injury, with Scott coming on in his place.

Thompson, Rothes' goalkeeper, made a crucial save to deny Jenkins from close range. However, Clydebank eventually equalized in the 59th minute when Rankin found the net from a Moy cross. Shortly after, Rankin was booked following a scuffle with Comrie.

The game became increasingly physical, with players going down frequently, and Small had to be replaced due to a leg injury, with Wark taking his place.

With eight minutes remaining, Clydebank were awarded a penalty after Moy was brought down by McLean. Moy confidently converted the penalty to secure victory for Clydebank. Despite not scoring, Russell was a standout performer among the forwards for his tireless efforts throughout the match.