Saltcoats Vics 1–1 Annbank United — SJFA West Region Ayrshire District League, 30 Aug 2014

Report by keano

Saltcoats were held to a draw on opening day by Annbank but really should have collected all three.

 Annbank started the game the better and scored on thier very first attack when Lee Sloan fired in from the edge of the box after the Saltcoats defense failed to clear a cross ball to make it 1-0. After that initial goal Saltcoats could have removed Catterson in goal as for the rest of the game he was never really used. With Joe Young playing up front for Saltcoats and being well supplied by Monan and Black he always looked a threat, and on the 20min mark when he was played in and rounded Callaghan in the Annbank goal the keeper brought him down, penalty Saltcoats , and only a yellow for Callaghan but anything else would have been harsh, up stepped Sean Quinn to take the penalty but his week kck was easilly saved by the big Annbank keeper to keep them in front. Monan was next to try out the Annbank goalie when after good work to get into the box he hit a week shot straight at Callaghan, then after Jordan Lynch fired over a good cross Chris Black took the paint off the post on the way bye with a good header. With Hercus,Lynch and Black playing well and being assisted by Monan and Hood on one wing and Moan and Easdon on the other, with Young lively up front it always looked like Saltcoats would get back into this game, but when the chances did come they were denied by Callaghan and his defense, and it was Annbank that went in at the break with the slightest of leads.  

 After some harsh words from manager Ryland at half time Saltcoats came out far more determined and with-in 2mins were level when Quinn fired in a curling cross that evaded everyone, including Monan at the back post and nestled in the far corner to make it 1-1. Annbank were trying to make inroads to the Saltcoats goal but anytime they did they were being halted by Ferris and his well drilled defense, and with Moan and Black beginning to knit in the middle of the park the Vics were looking the more likely side to gain the 3 points. With Joe Young up front Saltcoats were looking dangerous but anytime the little striker was in on goal ,his luck was out or he came up against an inspired Callaghan in goal. In the end a Draw but Saltcoats must feel like they have waisted a chance for full points and Annbank head back down the A78 with thier swag bag full.