Musselburgh Athletic F.C 2019/20

[DuklaWandy]

A bit late, but report of game v Mid Annandale.

https://gameofthrowinssite.wordpress.com/2020/02/07/mid-annandale-v-musselburgh-athletic/

[Casey Jones]

4 hours ago, DuklaWandy said:

A bit late, but report of game v Mid Annandale.

https://gameofthrowinssite.wordpress.com/2020/02/07/mid-annandale-v-musselburgh-athletic/

Good report and nice to see photos beside the written word.

Also good to read the bit about the history of Mid Annandale.

[Passthebaw]

Great result for Musselburgh on Saturday. Very professional performance from back to front, and first time this season the manager has been able to field the same starting line-up 2 weeks in row. Can CJ confirm?

[Casey Jones]

53 minutes ago, Passthebaw said:

Great result for Musselburgh on Saturday. Very professional performance from back to front, and first time this season the manager has been able to field the same starting line-up 2 weeks in row. Can CJ confirm?

I rate yesterday’s match up there with the 6-2 win against Linlithgow as the best I have seen Musselburgh play this season.

When I saw the same 11 as last week, my thoughts were the same. But, its not the first time this season. Burgh beat Camelon 2-0 and played very well on 18 November.

So, it was understandable, (never thought I would say this!) that even though Michael Moffat was available, the same starting line up took the field for the Alex Jack Cup final on 26 November. Burgh fans will know that changes were made at half time, which saw Musselburgh come back, from being down, to win the final that day.

[Casey Jones]

Before I do my report and sorry to most on here who will probably not have a clue what I am talking about!! When inside the grounds and walking to Peffermill 3G (2) pitch, does anyone think the downward steps, half way round are tricky/hard to deal with? Long but very thin steps, I felt I was going to collapse each time I stepped down!!Maybe it was just me!

 

Friday night and Musselburgh Under 20s were away to Penicuik Athletic Under 20s. The oddity of not playing at Penicuik’s own park, meant the match was played at Peffermill 3G; a ground closer to Musselburgh than Penicuik. For what it is worth, a Musselburgh loyal Under 20 supporter, who’s not on social media, got the bus to Penicuik, only to find the Penicuik home ground in darkness! The mark of the man was just to have a couple of pints and enjoy the ‘wasted’ journey back home.

Match kicked off at 8pm and within 8 minutes, Burgh were 1-0 up. From a throw in taken by Gary Ewing, the ball eventually came to Ciaran Young, who, from the edge of the dee, hit a low shot into the Penicuik goals. Seven minutes later, Burgh had a corner, taken by Ciaran Young. When the ball came over, Devan Craighead (not Khasim Mdalasini as was detailed elsewhere on social media) headed ball high into the goals and Musselburgh U20s were 2-0 up.

A few minutes later, Penicuik reduced the deficit. Play up the left wing and ball passed forward. Musselburgh players shouted for offside, but referee played on. The ball came to Doyle who placed ball passed Ross McRae. Score now 1-2 Burgh. On 20 minutes, Penicuik’s Viola made good run up the right wing and into the box. Devan Craighead came over and put ball out for a corner. From there the ball was cleared off the line by Gary Ewing. Penicuik’s centre half Mackay headed the ball and saw his effort rebound off the bar.

On 25 minutes Devan Craighead should have had his second goal of the match, but saw his header also bounced off the bar. Just past the half hour Burgh’s Ross McRae made a save from a 25 yard effort from Doyle. An unseemly incident came on 36 minutes which looked like Lamb, for the home side stamp on Jack Crombie. The Burgh dugout were dumbfounded that no action was taken by the referee. Not sure if it was meant, but Ethan Wynne seemed to have a free reign as he roamed around the pitch, with great tenacity. For such a young player (16) the boy has bags of potential effort and a joy to watch coming on each time he plays.

Into last four minutes and Penicuik’s Finnie had a chance to equalise but his lob over Ross McRae kept going his over the bar.

Half time: Penicuik Athletic U20s 1-2 Musselburgh Athletic U20s. Both teams had efforts come off the bar and Ciaran Young and Connor Fitzpatrick were booked.

Second half kicked off at 20:54 and within six minutes, all the good play in first half by Musselburgh looked wasted as Penicuik took the lead. On 49 minutes a goal by Lamb and then by McKenzie two minutes later found Penicuik went 3-2 up. The lack of fight in the early stages of this half must have bitterly disappointed the Burgh management team.

Perhaps this was a wake-up call, as Musselburgh once again took an interest in the match. Following play up the left wing Jack Crombie latched onto the ball and his shot from inside the box made it 3-3 after 53 minutes. 

Devan Craighead had another miss with an hour on the clock. From a Ciaran Young free kick, Devan Craighead’s header went wide. Burgh regained the lead in 81 minutes when substitute Steven Shore, in a crowded box, scored. Burgh now 4-3 in front. Having fallen asleep in the first few minutes of the second half, Musselburgh were now back in control of the match. 

Into final minutes of match and great backtracking from Steven Stone, saw him block a cross which went out for a corner. As it came over, Viola’s shot went over the bar. Match still not over and into injury time, Finnie broke free for the home side and his goal levelled the scoring. 

Another unsavoury incident saw a bad challenge on Ethan Wynne on the Burgh by-line by Salazar. Bizarrely the referee took no action on this. His avoidance to do anything with this and the earlier stamp on Jack Crombie would have left a very bad taste on the Burgh management team.

Full time: Penicuik Athletic U20s 4-4 Musselburgh Athletic U20s 

Edited February 13, 2020 by Casey Jones

[Casey Jones]

League match 19 for Musselburgh as they met Crossgates for the 2nd time this season. The first meeting in Fife ended in a 2-1 win for the home side. Musselburgh looked to extend their unbeaten run of 2020, knowing a win would take them above Crossgates in the league on goal difference. For only the second time this season, Musselburgh fielded the same team for the second match in a row.

Before kick off, on a cold and blustery afternoon, there was a presentation for captain Mathu King, who scored his 200 goal for Musselburgh in last month’s South-East Shield match.

For the first time this season Musselburgh would be shooting towards the clubhouse end of the ground. With wind advantage, the home team would have hoped that they went in at half time with a lead.

The first ten minutes of the match was one way traffic towards the Crossgates goals. Within a couple of minutes, DeclanO’Kane hit a thounderous shot from 30 yards, which smashed off the crossbar. A minute later, Mathu King saw a shot tipped round the post for a corner. Then, on Eight minutes great interlink play from Musselburgh ended with Mathu King passing ball into The Crossgates six yard box. Darren Downie was there but unexpectedly, the ball lifted over the bar for the disbelieving no.19.

it was only a matter of time before the first goal came. On ten minutes, the ball was played down the left wing. Jordan Orru, looked up, then launched a ball into the goalmouth area. All that was required was one touch by Mathu King and the ball was past the keeper, Henderson and Musselburgh were 1-0. The celebration was like Mathu King had scored in a cup final, but since this match was one of most important Musselburgh had faced so far, you could see what the goal meant to the captain.

On 14 minutes Crossgates had a double attempt to draw level. The first was a corner, which the centre half Aitken headed toward goal. Paul Grant produces a good save, tipping ball over the bar. When the second corner came over, an overhead kick by  a Primrose forward went by the outside of the post. From the goalkick, ball moved quickly into the Crossgates half. Ball found Darren Downie and he went agonisingly close as his shot hit the side netting.

With 20 minutes played, Burgh lost possession on the half way line. Ball moved up right wing and Campbell went by Brian Martin, into the box. His shot produced a great save by Paul Grant, turning the ball round the far side post. A relieved Brian Martin, shook Paul Grant’s hand for keeping Musselburgh in the lead. 

An early substitution saw the influential Crossgates midfielder Moffat, subbed with McDonald coming on. Crossgates has control of the ball on the halfway line and Wilkie headed ball towards a teammate. Jackie Myles managed to intercept and move ball upfield to Mathu King. The Burgh captain lobbed ball into the Crossgates box. With the away players shouting for offside, Darren Downie ran on and smashed the ball past Henderson and Musselburgh extended lead to 2-0.

Jono McManus was booked for a foul on the left edge of the Burgh box for a foul. Nothing came of the free kick. With 40 minutes played, a good move by Crossgates ended with a shot by Aitken  and Brian Martin was able to kick it out for a corner.

Half time: Musselburgh Athletic 2-0 Crossgates Primrose.

Early on and sub McDonald put in a hefty challenge on Declan O’Kane. The referee gave a yellow card, much to the disbelief of the Primrose midfielder, who said “..he chucked himself at me”! One to add to the mistaken identity book!  A couple of minutes later and Burgh had another free kick just outside the Crossgates box. Darren Downie’s shot came off the Primrose wall. From the rebound, Darren Downie had another attempt, but the shot went straight to Henderson.

With 65 minutes gone, Crossgates were by no means out of it. With the wind in their favour, the away side were getting more possession of the ball. A cross into the Musselburgh box, was met by the head of Jordan Orru. However, the ball headed towards his own goal and it needed Brian Martin to head clear.

On 68 minutes, Burgh made a good move up the right wing. A great through ball by Mathu King found Michale Moffat at the edge of the box. The cross came in but then put out for a corner. In the ebb and flow on the match now, it eas Crossgates which were next on the attack. A cross from Wilkie was half cleared by Jono McManus. McAteer beat Jackie Myles to the ball, turned and his shot was brilliantly touched over the bar by Paul Grant, having one of his best matches for Musselburgh.

Third goal of match came on 74 minutes. Jordan Orru played a one-two with Darren Downie who back-heeled the ball back to the left back. Jordan Orru then passed ball towards the penalty spot. With one touch Mathu King controlled the ball the ball with his right foot, then shot with his left boot and ball sailed past Henderson and match was all but over.

With that Josh Jeffries was subbed with Bradley coming on for last 15 minutes of match. Five minutes later, Mathu King received a loud cheer as he walked round the park following his substitution- Nathan Evans coming on in 80 minutes. Two minutes after and Forbes was booked after fouling Jackie Myles. It appeared as if the yellow came out for something the defender said, as opposed to the foul itself. The final sub saw Conor Thomson come on for Declan O’Kane as the clock counted down.

Less than five minutes to go and Forbes was lucky not to receive his second yellow in quick succession with a lunge at Jackie Myles.

Full time: Musselburgh Athletic 3-0 Crossgates Primrose 

 

[Casey Jones]

This morning Musselburgh Athletic are 10th in the league, their highest position for the season and only one point 9th placed Linlithgow.

[Casey Jones]

Wonder how many games will be on at the weekend?

Any grass pitched grounds will need to have good drainage particularly as rain on Thurs/Fri and some of Saturday.

[Casey Jones]

Under 20s football tonight as Musselburgh play Broxburn; kick off 7.45pm 

Burgh were 3-0 down in first match but came back to win 4-3. 

[Casey Jones]

With ‘Dennis’ causing havoc at the start of the weekend, 10 matches in EoS leagues were already postponed before Saturday’s early morning chorus. Musselburgh called for a pitch inspection at 9:00am. Very little rain over night, meant that, although the centre circle and top right of pitch were slippy underfoot, the referee was content to confirm match was on.

The expected rain and wind forecast In the morning never happened. The wind started to pick up when players and officials started to turn up at Olivebank just after lunch time. Indeed, it was half an hour before kick-off when the wind finally announced its presence up Market Street Lane with the rain coming soon after.

Hill of Beath were the visitors, knowing a win, on match18, would put them 7 points behind league leaders Bo’ness. Musselburgh were playing league match 20 and a win would lift them above Linlithgow into 9th place in the league.

Burgh started the match with the same side for third consecutive week. Match kicked off at 14:29 and in four minutes, Hill of Beath nearly took the lead. A throw-in was cleared out of the Burgh box. A great shot by Harrower came off the corner of the bar/post. From the re-bound, Kinningworth headed the ball, but Brian Martin was there to block.

First booking of match came in six minutes as Hick was booked for holding back Jordon Orru as he moved up the left wing. Another attempt by Haws saw a fine cross into the Burgh box by Conners and Kinningworth’s header went wrong side of post. Another narrow escape for the home side came with a corner on 12 minutes. As ball came in, Patrick ran into the 6-yard box, hit the ball, which ran across the goals and out for a by-kick..

Burgh then moved up the pitch and Michael Moffat played long ball for Darren Downie to chase. The forward ran into the box but his shot hit the side netting. Pitch was by now very slidy and cutting up with each run / tackle made. On 15 minutes a great ball up the centre by Liam Reid opened up the Haws defence. Darren Downie turned and laid ball on to Michael Moffat, who unfortunately slipped and attack was over.

Jordan Orru received Burgh’s first booking, following a strong tackle on Grierson, which the defender came out worse. Not sure if a yellow card was merited and after, both players laughed about the incident. Chance at either end saw Jackie Myles play the ball out wide. An incoming cross by Jordan Orru was cleared by Mitchell, but Josh Jeffries collected and his shot was saved by Hall. Then Haws had a free kick outside the Burgh box when Michael Moffat was penalised for a foul. The kick by Connors was blocked by the defensive wall and out for a corner.

Musselburgh went down to 10 men in 29 minutes as Brian Martin went in for a challenge and was a bit late as the ball was cleared. The defender’s momentum and a slip contributed to a collision with a Haws player who was downed. A yellow card at worst but the referee thought otherwise and Brian Martin was off the field!

Disappointing to see Mitchell runout from the Haws defence showing an imaginary red card. One of his players tried to stop him, but to no avail until after Mitchell paraded himself in front of the referee. Action like this should be checked by a captain or manager as it seems to be happening more and more.

With over 30 minutes played, Burgh were in the Haws box playing pinball football. Mathu King, Josh Jeffries and Declan O’Kane all had chances but ball cleared.  Into last four minutes of first half and Adamson broke clear of both Michael Moffat and Liam Reid. The Haws attacker’s shot produced a great save from Paul Grant and out. Two quick corners for Haws. The first was cleared. The second came to Mitchell, but his shot was blocked by Jordan Urru. Back came the away side and a shot by Watt was easily saved by Paul Grant. Another chance to Watt but from four yards out, skied the ball over the bar.

Half time: Musselburgh Athletic 0-0 Hill of Beath

Ten minutes into the 2nd half and a brilliant move by Musselburgh. As ball played upfield, Mathu King  passed to his left. Darren Downie ran on and his shot seemed destined for the net, only for Hall to produce the save of the match and a corner was given. Soon after, Dair fouled Declan O’Kane with free kick leading to a corner. As it came in, Liam Reid had a chance but the ball slide past the post.

Hill of Beath on the attack and on the half way line, Declan brought down Harrower. Referee played on, then Jono McManus gave foul away on Grierson. With play stopped, Declan O’Kane booked for the earlier challenge. Burgh’s first substitution came on the hour with Bradley Whyte on for Josh Jeffries. Haws sub, Reid had two attempts in as many minutes. First chance hit the side netting and the second, from out the box saved by Paul Grant.

Musselburgh were awarded a free kick when Dair brought down Bradley Whyte. From the Musselburgh half, ball played to Mathu King. His shot from way out the box was saved by Hall and another corner for Burgh. Before it could be taken, on 68 minutes, Darren Downie was subbed with Nathan Evans on. In came the corner which was headed over the bar by Jono McManus.

The rest of the match ebbed and flowed between both sides. With a couple of minutes remaining, Haws had the ball in the net following a move involving Reid, Adamson and Watt. However, the linesman raised his flag for offside. A minute later and Michael Moffat gave a foul away for a body check on sub, Kirby. The free kick from Reid was cleared over the bar by Paul Grant. From the corner, Patrick was first to the ball and his header put Hill of Beath 1-0 up. Jubilation for the away side and a celebration similar to that of winning a cup final!

Now in injury time and Musselburgh given a free kick on the left wing after a tussle between Bradley Whyte and Grierson. Declan O’Kane took the kick and ball came back to him. From the second cross, the ball was out for a corner to Burgh. A short 1-2 with Jordan Orru and Bradley Whyte saw the left back hit a shot from outside the box and past keeper, Hall. Substitute Reid, touched the ball onto the bar and immediately was ordered off and a penalty awarded. Reid protested before leaving the pitch. Hall then received a yellow card for kicking ball away from penalty spot. 

Captain, Mathu King stayed calm throughout the two minute delay and his penalty sent Hall the wrong way. A deserved equaliser for the home side.

Full Time: Musselburgh Athletic 1-1 Hill of Beath.

The draw helped the home side more than their Fife opponents. Moving onto 24 points, Burgh still in 10th place, but now seven points of bottom three. The result meant, Hill of Beath, with two matches still  in hand, are now nine points behind league leaders Bo’ness. 

 

Edited February 17, 2020 by Casey Jones

[Casey Jones]

Broxburn Athletic U20s were visitors to Pinkie on Friday night. The first match between the clubs ended in a 4-3 win to Musselburgh Athletic U20s.

First chance fell to the home side in 3 minutes when Steven Shore’s shot was put out for a corner. Incoming cross was cleared. Next move was again played up the Burgh right wing. Dan Lennie sent Gary Ewing on his way and a 20 yard run resulted in the ball played into the 6 yard box. With the Broxburn keeper beat, Ciaran Young slid in, but just could not connect and ball out for a by-kick.

On 22 minutes, Jack Crombie beat off two challenges as he moved from the centre line, up the right wing. The ball came into the box and Dean Burgess’ shot narrowly missed the target. Certainly plenty of pressure by the home side and it eventually reaped rewards on 24 minutes. Steven Storey with ball in the middle of the pitch played found Dean Burgess in the box. With his back to the goals, a quick turn of foot and Dean Burgess got the ball past the keeper’s left hand side and Musselburgh U20s were 1-0 up.

The Broxburn keeper was involved again a minute later, this time to save a shot/cross from Gary Ewing. Broxburn Under20s first shot on target came in 29 minutes. A cross was met by the centre half but Ross McRae was in a good position to save the ball. Soon after, Ciaran Young had a chance to increase the lead but he pulled his shot wide.

Half time: Musselburgh Athletic U20s 1-0 Broxburn Athletic U20s

James Pringle had an early chance in the second half with a shot from the 18 yard line, but it went straight to the Broxburn goalkeeper. Soon after, the referee stopped the match so that Ethan Wynne could receive treatment for an earlier foul, which somehow the referee allowed to go unpunished.

A good passing display from the home side on the hour found Kyle McFadden play a nice ball to Steven Shore. His shot was cleared but Burgh then went on the attack again and Dean Burgess attempt was saved by the keeper. With 63 minutes played, Steven Shore was subbed with Devan Craighead on.

The substitute had a great chance shortly after coming on, but his header went over the bar.  One minute later, Ciaran Young’s attempt was blocked and ball moved to the keeper’s right hand side. From a very tight angle, Devan Craighead hit a wondrous shot into the net to put Burgh U20s 2-0 up.

Jack Crombie was second player to come off with Ewen Graham on. Kyle McFadden, having a super match played a great through ball into the Broxburn penalty box. Ciaran Young connected and on 71 minutes Burgh went 3-0 up. Final substitution came with Ethan Wynne replaced by trialist Adam Dunlop.

A wee comical moment with five minutes remaining. Devan Craighead was on right hand side of 18 yard box. His shot went no where near to the goals and landed up passing just short of the corner flag. The passing play by Musselburgh was the best part of the match. A 20 yard pass from Gary Ewing found Ciaran Young. His shot flew past the post. Into the final minute and another long pass from Adam Dunlop was aimed at Ciaran Young. This time a Broxburn defender closed in and ball was cleared.

Full time: Musselburgh Athletic U20s v Broxburn Athletic U20s.

The result of a great display by Musselburgh, saw them move back up to 4th in Conference B.

 

[Passthebaw]

19 hours ago, Casey Jones said:

With ‘Dennis’ causing havoc at the start of the weekend, 10 matches in EoS leagues were already postponed before Saturday’s early morning chorus. Musselburgh called for a pitch inspection at 9:00am. Very little rain over night, meant that, although the centre circle and top right of pitch were slippy underfoot, the referee was content to confirm match was on.

The expected rain and wind forecast In the morning never happened. The wind started to pick up when players and officials started to turn up at Olivebank just after lunch time. Indeed, it was half an hour before kick-off when the wind finally announced its presence up Market Street Lane with the rain coming soon after.

Hill of Beath were the visitors, knowing a win, on match18, would put them 7 points behind league leaders Bo’ness. Musselburgh were playing league match 20 and a win would lift them above Linlithgow into 9th place in the league.

Burgh started the match with the same side for third consecutive week. Match kicked off at 14:29 and in four minutes, Hill of Beath nearly took the lead. A throw-in was cleared out of the Burgh box. A great shot by Harrower came off the corner of the bar/post. From the re-bound, Kinningworth headed the ball, but Brian Martin was there to block.

First booking of match came in six minutes as Hick was booked for holding back Jordon Orru as he moved up the left wing. Another attempt by Haws saw a fine cross into the Burgh box by Conners and Kinningworth’s header went wrong side of post. Another narrow escape for the home side came with a corner on 12 minutes. As ball came in, Patrick ran into the 6-yard box, hit the ball, which ran across the goals and out for a by-kick..

Burgh then moved up the pitch and Michael Moffat played long ball for Darren Downie to chase. The forward ran into the box but his shot hit the side netting. Pitch was by now very slidy and cutting up with each run / tackle made. On 15 minutes a great ball up the centre by Liam Reid opened up the Haws defence. Darren Downie turned and laid ball on to Michael Moffat, who unfortunately slipped and attack was over.

Jordan Orru received Burgh’s first booking, following a strong tackle on Grierson, which the defender came out worse. Not sure if a yellow card was merited and after, both players laughed about the incident. Chance at either end saw Jackie Myles play the ball out wide. An incoming cross by Jordan Orru was cleared by Mitchell, but Josh Jeffries collected and his shot was saved by Hall. Then Haws had a free kick outside the Burgh box when Michael Moffat was penalised for a foul. The kick by Connors was blocked by the defensive wall and out for a corner.

Musselburgh went down to 10 men in 29 minutes as Brian Martin went in for a challenge and was a bit late as the ball was cleared. The defender’s momentum and a slip contributed to a collision with a Haws player who was downed. A yellow card at worst but the referee thought otherwise and Brian Martin was off the field!

Disappointing to see Mitchell runout from the Haws defence showing an imaginary red card. One of his players tried to stop him, but to no avail until after Mitchell paraded himself in front of the referee. Action like this should be checked by a captain or manager as it seems to be happening more and more.

With over 30 minutes played, Burgh were in the Haws box playing pinball football. Mathu King, Josh Jeffries and Declan O’Kane all had chances but ball cleared.  Into last four minutes of first half and Adamson broke clear of both Michael Moffat and Liam Reid. The Haws attacker’s shot produced a great save from Paul Grant and out. Two quick corners for Haws. The first was cleared. The second came to Mitchell, but his shot was blocked by Jordan Urru. Back came the away side and a shot by Watt was easily saved by Paul Grant. Another chance to Watt but from four yards out, skied the ball over the bar.

Half time: Musselburgh Athletic 0-0 Hill of Beath

Ten minutes into the 2nd half and a brilliant move by Musselburgh. As ball played upfield, Mathu King  passed to his left. Darren Downie ran on and his shot seemed destined for the net, only for Hall to produce the save of the match and a corner was given. Soon after, Dair fouled Declan O’Kane with free kick leading to a corner. As it came in, Liam Reid had a chance but the ball slide past the post.

Hill of Beath on the attack and on the half way line, Declan brought down Harrower. Referee played on, then Jono McManus gave foul away on Grierson. With play stopped, Declan O’Kane booked for the earlier challenge. Burgh’s first substitution came on the hour with Bradley Whyte on for Josh Jeffries. Haws sub, Reid had two attempts in as many minutes. First chance hit the side netting and the second, from out the box saved by Paul Grant.

Musselburgh were awarded a free kick when Dair brought down Bradley Whyte. From the Musselburgh half, ball played to Mathu King. His shot from way out the box was saved by Hall and another corner for Burgh. Before it could be taken, on 68 minutes, Darren Downie was subbed with Nathan Evans on. In came the corner which was headed over the bar by Jono McManus.

The rest of the match ebbed and flowed between both sides. With a couple of minutes remaining, Haws had the ball in the net following a move involving Reid, Adamson and Watt. However, the linesman raised his flag for offside. A minute later and Michael Moffat gave a foul away for a body check on sub, Kirby. The free kick from Reid was cleared over the bar by Paul Grant. From the corner, Patrick was first to the ball and his header put Hill of Beath 1-0 up. Jubilation for the away side and a celebration similar to that of winning a cup final!

Now in injury time and Musselburgh given a free kick on the left wing after a tussle between Bradley Whyte and Grierson. Declan O’Kane took the kick and ball came back to him. From the second cross, the ball was out for a corner to Burgh. A short 1-2 with Jordan Orru and Bradley Whyte saw the left back hit a shot from outside the box and past keeper, Hall. Substitute Reid, touched the ball onto the bar and immediately was ordered off and a penalty awarded. Reid protested before leaving the pitch. Hall then received a yellow card for kicking ball away from penalty spot. 

Captain, Mathu King stayed calm throughout the two minute delay and his penalty sent Hall the wrong way. A deserved equaliser for the home side.

Full Time: Musselburgh Athletic 1-1 Hill of Beath.

The draw helped the home side more than their Fife opponents. Moving onto 24 points, Burgh still in 10th place, but now seven points of bottom three. The result meant, Hill of Beath, with two matches still  in hand, are now nine points behind league leaders Bo’ness. 

 

Thanks CJ. I really enjoyed a great 90 minutes on Saturday. Fair play to both sets of players for their efforts & ability in very tough conditions. A draw was a fair result and keeps Musselburgh's momentum going. 

[Casey Jones]

55 minutes ago, Passthebaw said:

Thanks CJ. I really enjoyed a great 90 minutes on Saturday. Fair play to both sets of players for their efforts & ability in very tough conditions. A draw was a fair result and keeps Musselburgh's momentum going. 

Up there as one of best displays of season particularly with conditions. The players must have been knackered by the end of the match.

No way should Brian M have been sent off but  you hardly noticed  we were playing with 10 men for the last hour of the match. The heavy / slidy (not a word?) wasn’t for Josh’s style of play and thought that Bradley W did well when he came on.

Don’t know who was man of the match - do you? Certainly a number could have been in with a chance, but narrowing it down to three, I’d say Paul, Jordan or Jackie. My pick would be Jordan - what be your thoughts? 

[Passthebaw]

38 minutes ago, Casey Jones said:

Up there as one of best displays of season particularly with conditions. The players must have been knackered by the end of the match.

No way should Brian M have been sent off but  you hardly noticed  we were playing with 10 men for the last hour of the match. The heavy / slidy (not a word?) wasn’t for Josh’s style of play and thought that Bradley W did well when he came on.

Don’t know who was man of the match - do you? Certainly a number could have been in with a chance, but narrowing it down to three, I’d say Paul, Jordan or Jackie. My pick would be Jordan - what be your thoughts? 

I agree on Brian. Rash tackle but not a red card factoring in the conditions. 

I think Jackie got M.O.M. I thought they were all excellent but Jonno would have just shaded it for me. 

[Casey Jones]

8 minutes ago, Passthebaw said:

I agree on Brian. Rash tackle but not a red card factoring in the conditions. 

I think Jackie got M.O.M. I thought they were all excellent but Jonno would have just shaded it for me. 

Interesting! Was a strong defensive display so I can see where you are coming from. 

[Casey Jones]

Arrived at Pinkie on Friday night to monsoon type conditions as Musselburgh Athletic and Preston Athletic U20s ‘warmed up’. Considered staying in car to write up notes, but just before 7.45pm kick-off, two supporters stood, blocking viewpoint of far side goals, so a drenching awaited me!

Musselburgh U20s started match in 4th place in Conference B, having already beat Preston U20s 3-1 away. However, Preston won 4-1 in an early season cup tie at Pinkie so both teams would view this as a winnable match. Unusually, there was three players from main team in starting line-up. Ross Larner, starting his 3rd U20 match in a row, Liam Gregory, back from a long term groin injury and Bradley Whyte, getting his first start in a match for four weeks. 

Burgh’s first attack came in two minutes. From defence, ball played wide from Liam Gregory to Kyle McFadden. His cross into the box was met by Devan Craighead, with header just wide of post. Next forward move and Ciaran Young’s 25 yard attempt also went past the post.

Preston U20s took a bit of time to get into the match. Their first real chance came on 18 minutes, and Ross McRae produced a good save. First goal came in 23 minutes. Preston had a free kick on their right wing. Taken by the left back, ball was floated into the box; then squared. Only a tap in required by the no.4 and away team led 1-0.

Burgh came close again on 35 minutes. A cross from the right came over towards far side post. Ciaran Young blasted ball from 10 yards and missed the goals by feet. A young lady behind goals quickly turned away as she thought ball was heading her way, but the barrier behind the goals saved the day! 

Into final three minutes of the first half and the home side had Ross McRae to thank for not going 2-0 behind. The keeper made a double save, the second at the feet of a Preston forward. That was to prove pivotal for the match result. Up came Musselburgh through the centre of the pitch. Liam Gregory fired in a shot which the Preston keeper saved. As he ball came out, Dean Burgess was on hand to get the equaliser. Into injury time and Burgh had a free kick. From the right wing, Ciaran Young curled in a cross, with Ross Larner turning the ball into the net with a good shot.

Half time: Musselburgh Athletic U20s 2-1 Preston Athletic U20s.

Given the dressing rooms are a distance away, players normally stay on the pitch and swap half’s after a few minutes discussions with the coaches. However, the away side returned indoors, so, the full 15 minutes ‘rest’ was required, certainly not an advantage to anyone given the conditions!

A minute into the second half and Preston had a chance to equalise, but Devan Craighead was on the goal line to steer the ball away. Couple of minutes later Dean Burgess played the ball infield and Liam Gregory’s attempt flew over the bar. Both players were again involved on 51 minutes. Liam Gregory’s shot was blocked. In came Dean Burgess and his attempted cleared for a corner.

Liam Gregory shouted for the early ball, but his pass went awry. In came Dan Lennie to win a challenge and play it back. Liam Gregory then played to Dean Burgess who had his back to goals. A quick turnaround and Dean Burgess got his second goal of the match. Burgh were now 3-1 up.

Following the kick off Preston were on the attack and should have reduced the lead, but no.16 headed over the bar from only three yards out. Soon after and a definite chance as referee blew for a penalty kick. Ross Larner was yellow carded for bringing a player down in the box. It was 4 minutes before the penalty was taken and a great diving save by Ross McRae kept Musselburgh in charge. 

Musselburgh increased the lead in 67 minutes with a goal to Ciaran Young. In truth, I was clearing the rain off my glasses at time so do not have any details of the goal! At that point Josh Whitson and Steven Stone came on for Devan Craighead and Liam Gregory. 

Preston U20 players, particularly in defence, seemed to question every decision which went against them. Think the centre half was booked for one of these rants. Then in 72 minutes, the no.10 was red carded. Again I did not see why, but maybe something he said?

Another Burgh sub saw Khasim Mdalasini replace Kyle McFadden. On 74 minutes Preston had a free-kick 25 yards out. Taken by the centre half; his attempt was saved by Ross McRae. Final Burgh sub saw Ewan Graham on for Dean Burgess. Preston reduced the deficit on 79 minutes. A good strike by the left winger gave Ross McRae no chance. Burgh U20s now 4-2 up.

The final goal came in injury time. Steven Stone's throw in went to Ewan Graham. The midfielder took the ball to the by-line and played ball into the six yard box. From a yard out, Khasim Mdalasini, the talented forward could not miss.

Full time: Musselburgh Athletic 5-2 Preston Athletic. 

Musselburgh increased the lead in 67 minutes with a goal to Ciaran Young. In truth, I was clearing the rain off my glasses at time so do not have any details of the goal! At that point Josh Whitson and Steven Stone came on for Devan Craighead and Liam Gregory. 

Preston U20 players, particularly in defence, seemed to question every decision which went against them. Think the centre half was booked for one of these rants. Then in 72 minutes, the no.10 was red carded. Again I did not see why, but maybe something he said?

Another Burgh sub saw Khasim Mdalasini replace Kyle McFadden. On 74 minutes Preston had a free-kick 25 yards out. Taken by the centre half; his attemp was saved by Ross McRae. Final Burgh sub saw Ewan Graham on for Dean Burgess. Preston reduced the deficit on 79 minutes. A good strike by the left winger gave Ross McRae no chance. Burgh U20s now 4-2 up.

The final goal came in injury time. Steven Stone's throw in went to Ewan Graham. The midfielder took the ball to the by-line and played ball into the six yard box, From a yard out, Khasim Mdalasini, the talented forward could not miss.

Full time: Musselburgh Athletic 5-2 Preston Athletic. 

Edited February 24, 2020 by Casey Jones

[Casey Jones]

Looking again at my notes of Friday's under 20s match. Ross McRae was definitely influential in keeping the Preston score down. He also made two critical saves at 2-1 and 3-1 which could have brought the away side back into the match. Liam Gregory and Dean Burgess also linked up well. However, man of the match was Dan Lennie who did not put a foot wring in defence and was instrumental with Dean Burgess' second goal.

[Casey Jones]

Burgh lost their first 8 away matches, were conceding too much and in bottom 3 for much of the early part of season. Certainly not what players and fans of Musselburgh envisaged at start of season.

In truth all I wanted was to go up to 12th and give ourselves a bit of a break from relegation thoughts. Following wee break just before Christmas, Burgh won 4 and drawn 3and we have transformed our season. Burgh are now in top half of league. Granted Jeanfield, who have pumped us twice this season, and Linlithgow have played less matches than Burgh, but we van be pleased where we re now!

Think a couple of wins from our last 9 matches, and Burgh can start planning for another season in the Premier League.

[Passthebaw]

14 hours ago, Casey Jones said:

Burgh lost their first 8 away matches, were conceding too much and in bottom 3 for much of the early part of season. Certainly not what players and fans of Musselburgh envisaged at start of season.

In truth all I wanted was to go up to 12th and give ourselves a bit of a break from relegation thoughts. Following wee break just before Christmas, Burgh won 4 and drawn 3and we have transformed our season. Burgh are now in top half of league. Granted Jeanfield, who have pumped us twice this season, and Linlithgow have played less matches than Burgh, but we van be pleased where we re now!

Think a couple of wins from our last 9 matches, and Burgh can start planning for another season in the Premier League.

Things have turned around significantly for Musselburgh But for Brian's suspension I think the manager would have gone for another unchanged team CJ.

Musselburgh passed Newtongrange off the park 1st half yesterday but didn't show up for the first 20 minutes in the 2nd, then the substitutes made a difference, particularly Evans who looked very lively. Overall, Musselburgh not at their best but a comfortable win eventually. Newtongrange look doomed. They were poor, their #9 Paterson aside. 

[Casey Jones]

5 hours ago, Passthebaw said:

Things have turned around significantly for Musselburgh But for Brian's suspension I think the manager would have gone for another unchanged team CJ.

Musselburgh passed Newtongrange off the park 1st half yesterday but didn't show up for the first 20 minutes in the 2nd, then the substitutes made a difference, particularly Evans who looked very lively. Overall, Musselburgh not at their best but a comfortable win eventually. Newtongrange look doomed. They were poor, their #9 Paterson aside. 

Not going to go against what you said PTB, particularly as you know football better than me!

I do think the set up for the previous three matches is the best for Burgh; in most cases! Brian not being available at least gave the manager a chance to return to a back 4, but still allowing Jordan and Michael freedom to move up field. Do think, when you looked the pitch yesterday thar, quite often it reverted to a back three, with Michael playing a more defensive role than Jordan.

i think though that while a back 3 set up is best, we don’t always play our best 11, though, I understand the probable reason for it! I am no manager and never will be. Just a supporter who sees things differently on occasions than the coaching staff.

However, 4 wins and 3 draws in last 7 matches - I ain’t complaining!