Ayr Utd 3
Clydebank 1
League (Division 2)

Match Report

A change of scenery from the high-octane world of top-flight football brought us to Somerset Park in Ayr. Here, newly relegated Ayr United began their quest for promotion, while Clydebank, in just their second season in senior football are aiming to establish themselves in the Second Division.

The early signs suggested a new era of tactical discipline had even reached the Second Division. However, Clydebank, despite their organised 4-3-3 formation, lacked the pace to truly exploit it. Their striking force felt blunt, with the midfield trio of McGhee, King, and Baxter (formerly of Hibs) plodding behind the play without much finesse.

Ayr United, on the other hand, thrived in their traditional black and white hoops. They swarmed the goal with four nimble attackers, their movement proving too much for the cumbersome Clydebank defence. Mitchell and Hawkshaw provided a constant spark, while Ingram's aggression kept the Clydebank backline on edge.

The attacking disparity was evident. Ayr looked destined for a swift return to Division 1, a natural progression given their longer experience compared to the fledgling Clydebank side.

The match itself started brightly. Moore put Clydebank ahead within three minutes, but Ayr responded with a brace – a well-taken goal from Ingram and a headed effort from Mitchell – to lead at half time.

Clydebank's second-half tactics, described as "gung-ho" by some, were easily countered by Ayr's composed approach. The pressure remained firmly on Clydebank, and Ingram, after receiving a yellow card for over-exuberance, finally found the net through sheer determination.

The final whistle blew on a morale-boosting victory for Ayr, celebrated by the 4,000 home supporters. The Clydebank fans, who travelled in busloads to witness the encounter, were left disappointed by their team's display.

Match report written by Adapted by Stuart McBay