Breadalbane secured a well respected 5th round Scottish cup place with a fine victory of Lowson United of the Midlands Association. Captain Veitch led the way, opening the scoring for the second week on the trot and top scorer Jamieson won the tie with a double to secure Breadalbane’s 10th win on the trot.
Letham agonisingly crashed out of the North of Tay cup in extra time to hosts Caird Park. After battling hard for the full 90 minutes, the boys from Seven Acres ran out of gas in extra time with Caird Park notching 3 without reply for a place in the last 16.
In the Marshall cup, the Errol boys must have thought they were in with the chance of a cup upset only being one down at the break, whatever player manager McNaughton said to his troops had an adverse effect as they capitulated in the second half losing a further six without reply as Knowles and Martin each notched hat tricks supported by a double from Souter.
Stalemate in the battle of the Earns as the Vale picked up their first league point of the season at the Brig which should give their management some hope going into the new year as their squad rebuilding continues.
Craigie dominated Villareal in the only second division tie with player manager Hamdani on the score sheet for the second consecutive week however his 15 yard bullet strike flew past his own keeper as he did his best to help the Villareal goal difference and defence who were torn apart by Potter all day long as he registered a hat trick.
With a better forecast this week, Breadalbane should get the go ahead to continue their impressive winning run and advance to the next round of the Scottish Cup at the expense of Lowson.
Ballinuig are still going strong in all competitions, but face a tough test as Morgan FP visit in the North Of Tay, fighting also for a place in the last 16 are both Letham and Roselea, who both met last week with the latter winning easily, however Roselea head through to Dundee to face an unbeaten Riverside who are strong favorites to be in the final at Dens. Letham’s opponents are not quite so daunting in the shape of Caird Park, but home advantage could be all the difference.
Two Marshall cup ties round of the non league fixtures at Kettins travel to Burrelton and Errol entertain Wolfhill with a home and an away win marked on the cards.
On league duty, Auchterarder are in poor form losing two on the bounce and unless they find their scoring touch, Alyth could make it three. League position counts for nothing when St Johns travel to face Balmoral Utd as the home side has an envious winning record against their visitors with the keeper usually in unstoppable form and after their first win this week, Balmoral have the edge. Division one games round of with the battle on the Earn, as the Vale travel to the Brig in a big six pointer as both are favorites on the club forums for relegation.
In division two its top v bottom as high scoring Coupar host Tay Thistle, Bridgeton will seek to do the double over Fairfield this season in their second meeting, while Comrie and Kinrossie will try again this week after the weather beat them both last week. Villareal could not come at a better time for Craigie following their 11 goal mauling last week, but must beware a backlash, while two promising promotion contenders on paper in the shape of Jeanfield and the Vale will have the battle of the underachievers for what will likely be sixth spot.
In division three, Letham Lads travel North to Blair Atholl to face Star and they have the chance to close the gap on league leaders Rattray who face a tricky away tie at Newtyle who bagged a dozen goals last week against the Lads opponents on Saturday. With only a point between them, Taybank entertain the Strath for what already looks like to be third place this season while Meigle can close the gap on Kenmore if a home win can be secured against their up and down visitors. Finally, Letham United have failed to light up the third division following last season relegation and although Methven got a real cuffing at the hands of the Lads last week, the will still be confident of picking up three points at seven acres.
With the Breadalbane game falling foul of the weather it was up to their near North Perthshire neighbours Ballinluig to come to the fore & represent Perthshire in the fourth round draw after seeing off visitors Mossend. The Luig went ahead 20 minutes in through Morrison & lead by this solitary goal at the break. In the second half Ballinluig dominated play & were on cruise control after Morrison doubled his tally & Duncan made the game safe, which was needed as they lost a sloppy goal at the death. Unfortunately both Auchterarder & St Johns could not join them after losing by the odd goal in three away to East Kilbride & home to Carronshore respectively. In an off day for their strikers, it was left to their opponents to take the few chances that came their way to advance with Johnston & Carle on target for both in vain.
In the North of Tay, Riverside sent a chilling warning to Roselea in advance of their third round tie, despatching their fellow divisional rivals Bridge of Earn with ease & nine goals to boot with only a couple of consolation strikes in response.
There was a glut of goals in the local ties with no fewer than 3 clubs registering double figures with Letham Lads being the first as a they blitzed divisional rivals Methven to secure a League Cup quarter final spot with Turnball and Ferrie at the double and Mann top scoring with a double brace. The third round draw for the Perthshire cup is complete after Balmoral registered a narrow win by the off goal in three at Letham united. Three goals were the total scored at Market Park also, however all by Strathearn Grove as Ward, Jack & Dewar secured a West District cup semi spot at the expense of the Vale.
On league duty, Roselea ran out comfortable winners over bitter rivals Letham to condemn the current league champions to their 5th defeat of the season and they must now feel the faint hope of retaining their crown has been squashed. Fairfield went goal crazy to destroy a decimated Villareal, hitting eleven without reply to go fourth in the table with Craigie hot on their heels, gaining 3 points at home to Tay Thistle with gaffer Hamdani leading the way with the opening goal. A well deserved 3 points for the Vale, despite losing an early goal which Bridgeton rightfully deserved, but they bounced back through Thorne and Jamieson, who realistically had an off day in front goal including the latter missing a penalty.
In Division three, Newtyle Hearts top scored a neat dozen with Stott pulling the strings to see off Star who countered with three goals of their own. Rattray extended their lead at the top of the table to 12 points with their ninth win of this season’s league campaign after a comfortable win at Meigle while Kenmore could not follow up last week’s impressive win as Taybank travelled north with a smash and grab raid, smuggling maximum points back down the road with old head Cooper in his testimonial year impressing.
St Johns recent good away win at Carnoustie in the North of Tay is not to be sniffed at and they will be on a high going into their Scottish Cup fourth round tie as they entertain high scoring Falkirk cracks Carronshore. Breadalbane are the team to beat this season and nothing but a home win is expected as they await the Midlands Lowson United, Ballinluig are at home also Lanarkshire opposition visit in the shape of Mossend while Auchterarder round out the four remaining Perthshire clubs left in the competition as they travel to visit the Rolly, or East Kilbride Rolls Royce from Greater Glasgow.
In the North of Tay, The Brig and Riverside finally get the go ahead to kick off their second round tie with the Perthshire club looking to spring a shock.
With many various cup ties littering this week’s fixture card both Methven and Letham Lads get a reprieve in their league cup section as Fairfield fell foul of suspensions resulting in a play off to decide who advances.
Letham Utd entertain Balmoral for a third possible time as Seven Acres is back in good nick in the Perthshire Cup second round while Alyth, promoted last season travel to Coupar Angus who headed the other way.
There are a couple of first round district cup ties as near neighbours Strath and The Vale do battle, while Kettins travel the short hop to Burrelton to defy a two division gap and Wolfhill expect a rout at Errol.
A big crowd is expected at the South Inch for a mouth watering tie as fierce rivals Letham and Roselea go head. Letham, who are struggling in their quest to retain their league title cannot afford to lose more ground on one of the favourites and probably the last club they want to take their crown in Roselea.
In division two, Comrie and Kinrossie try again, albeit at a different location after their recent reverse meeting did not get the go ahead. Villareal and Fairfield have both stuttered in recent weeks to win games, but still both remain difficult to defeat, Craigie and Tay Thistle will try again with Craigie hoping Turner gets released from their opponents in time to face his former team mates while Bridgeton have the long journey North to Pitlochry to face a resurgent Vale.
In division three, Kenmore will go in search of three more points at home to Taybank, buoyed by last week’s impressive win at Kettins, top guns Rattray will look to increase their lead at the expense of Meigle while Newtyle Hearts impressive home form will look to condemn Star to their second defeat in as many weeks.
A poor day was had by all Perthshire clubs in the Scottish cup as firstly the Brig were thumped at Carluke, Roselea tired badly in extra time and Carse Thistle took full advantage to advance while one solitary first half strike was enough for Grammar Rovers to travel back up North with the win over Wolfhill.
It was a mixed bag however in the North of Tay, Taybank as expected were soundly beaten by Caird Park, Comrie Rovers pushed Invergowrie all the way, falling just short with an extra time winner as a double from Cruickshank was not enough, while Auchterarder have tasted defeat for the first time this season as Arbroath HSFP took their chances when presented in front of goal while the Primrose knocked on wood all day to head out. On the positive, Letham Lads shown how much they had improved with an impressive away victory at St Michaels, after breaking the deadlock through Kelly the Lads were pegged back and following a home dismissal Turnball restored the lead which they never looked in danger of losing. Burrelton comfortably swept aside Elmwood, hitting four without reply to advance to the last 16 where they will be joined by St Johns who recorded a hard though victory at Carnoustie with Carle and McCabe the scorers. Breadalbane enjoyed a comforable 10 goal victory over Riverside Plate, but the team kept their discipline throughout and were pleased to keep yet another clean sheet. The goals were shared around the front players, Jamieson lead the way with three, Carr two and singles for Allan, Stuart, Da Silva, Veitch and McDougall scored late on to claim his first senior goal for the Club.
On League duty, Balmoral recorded their first league win of this campaign although they were pushed all the way by Vale of Earn. Alyth also moved up the table securing three points at home to Letham by the odd goal in three after the visitors had a late morning scramble to assemble a team.
In division two, after pretty even first half, Vale took control scoring 2 minutes into the second half through Jamieson, quickly followed by another from Frame from 20yds. Villareal got one back through Taylors own goal, but the Vale restored the 2 goal advantage when Thorne slipped the ball home. Coupar Angus remain top after a 6 goal demolition of Kinrossie with doubles from Lomas, Feaks and McFadden. Jeanfield Swifts could not take advantage of visitors Fairfield being reduced to 10 men sharing two goals apiece and the points, while Ballinluig weathered the dodgy conditions the better to take a 10th minute lead at Bridgeton, who fought back to draw level at half time. The second half was nothing spectacular as Bridgeton took the game to Ballinluig who secured all 3 points at the death through man of the match Carruthers.
In division three, Xmas can’t come quick enough for Kettins as the toys were ‘out the pram’ after their latest outing, a thirteen goal thriller versus Kenmore, which as fate would have it was unlucky for the Kettins as a first half hat trick from Irvine, followed up by a second half double secured a precious three points for the young guns of Kenmore as the home side’s poor discipline this season was again on show. After a late switch Strathearn Grove travelled to seven acres to secure all three points from Letham Utd. Newtyle Hearts hit Meigle Vics for six without reply, while the Methven strikers finally wore their shooting boots to be in seven heaven on the road at Errol, who remain pointless at the bottom.
With some clubs inactive for the past 2 weeks due to the poor weather, with no sign of it letting up this weekend, not only are the players frustrated, but the fixtures at this crucial time of the season are beginning to back up. With the fourth round of the Scottish Cup due next week it is imperative the outstanding third round ties get the go ahead including the Brig’s visit to the South of Scotland to face Carluke Hearts. Hopeing their replays get the go ahead and with home advantage, Roselea entertain Carse Thistle while Wolfhill host Grammar Rovers.
On North of Tay duty, Taybank are conscious if they are unable to acquire a playing pitch come Saturday morning, their tie versus Caird Park could head through to the Midlands. Some mouth watering third round North of Tay ties are in the offing as free scoring Comrie entertain Invergowrie, who have stuttered in recent weeks. St Johns travel to Carnoustie who will be looking to bounce back from last week’s home defeat while both Auchterarder and Burrelton are both on their travels to face Arbroath and Elmwood respectively. Breadalbane are red hot favourites to continue their fine run at the expense of Riverside Plate while the up and coming Letham Lads are confident of securing the win on the road at St Michaels.
On league duty, Alyth host Letham with both clubs desperate for a spark, while you could of been forgiven for expecting the Vale of Earn v Balmoral tie to be nothing but an away win a couple of weeks ago, the Vale have seriously improved and should run united close.
Coupar Angus went top of the division two table last weekend and come 4pm should remain so at the expense of Kinrossie, Craigie and Tay Thistle go head to head both looking to possibly avoid a similar battle royal experienced last year that dented both promotion pushes. The Swifts, smarting from recent defeats and falling back in the promotion race are like a wounded lion so Fairfield beware, Villareal head North to face the Vale with a draw the likely outcome, while Ballinluig could just nick the points from Bridgeton if Almonbank gets the nod.
In division three, Rattray can extend their lead at the top at the expense of Star, while the Strath’s impressive home form should reap maximum points from the visit of Letham. Meigle and Newtyle will try again this week after being disappointed after a mix up last week with both clubs ready to play and no referee, Kenmore head east again to face Kettins while Errol, still pointless and with major suspensions, await the visit of Methven.
Another excellent performance by Breadalbane saw them see off a potentially tricky tie against FC Polonia. With many players missing Breadalbane showed the strength of the sqaud to comfortably win this fixture with first half goals by Price and Jamieson. Soon after the break Laing and Jamieson again put the game out of reach for the Polish outfit. Although captain for the day Jacobs conceded his first goal in four games to make it 4-1, Breadalbane finished the game strongly with further strikes from Da Siva and a double from Allan to complete a comprehensive victory against a decent team giving Breadalbane their eighth win in succession which should fill the Aberfeldy side with confidence going into their upcoming fixtures.
In the Scottish Cup, after many late call offs and organising a big bus for their big day away, St johns travelled to Ayrshire to face Kilbirnie with the bare eleven men and committee in tow. So with the cards stacked against them, especially as Kilbirnie were impressive from the start with some slick passing, keeping their visitors under the cosh, nothing but a defeat was expected. However, after some dogged defending, a unique goalkeeping performance from their midfield general Reid in goal and star man Billy Carle stepping up with 3 vital break away goals only to be pegged back on each occasion, it’s no surprise when Mccabe hit a late winner for the Perthshire club it prompted Committee man Billy Bennett to state he felt it was their greatest ever Scottish Cup victory.
Domestically, only 5 other ties survived the weather, unfortunately for whatever reason the match officials appointed at Kinrossie and Meigle were no shows on the day leaving all clubs involved seriously disappointed. The pitch out at Kettins passed a pre match pitch inspection and their Ashleigh cup tie versus Vale of Atholl got the go ahead. However, with the game tight at half time with Vale leading by the odd goal in three and the conditions deteriorating considerably, the correct decision to abandon the game was made.
Coupar Angus travelled to the Riverside to face Jeanfield Swifts who could boast they were the only amateur within Perth to have a playable pitch on the day. Unfortunately, for the Swifts this was not to their benefit with another notch in the loss column by the end of the game after Coupar Angus were easy winners and hit top spot in the second division as an bonus.
Finally, the cold, shivering and soaked match official who took charge of the Rattray v Kenmore tie said this was nowhere near a classic as the conditions dictated, but was certainly a fiery affair. Rattray were the eventual and rightful winners in his eyes, although Kenmore were let down by some poor indiscipline in the second half.
All clubs competing in cup competitions, please contact the Match Secretary immediately if your pitch in unplayable or tie postponed. This should be done prior to contacting any opposition secretary and referee as this may enable the Match Secretary to arrange for a league fixture on a playable park.
With all clubs knowing the 4th round draw before their 3rd round tied kick off this week, they could have one eye on the forthcoming tie and may be distracted. Wolfhill, with home advantage will hopefully give Grammar Rovers a lesson on silky soccer while a frustrated St Johns are praying for the go ahead at Kilburnie as players are kicking their heels. The Brig head through to Lothian to face the much fancied Carluke Hearts while a full strength Roselea should be too strong at home to Carse Thistle who come the other way.
With the 3rd round of the North of Tay next week, both Taybank and Breadalbane will be keen to beat the weather and get the go ahead, although no comment from the latter at going to press.
Some straggling cup ties in both the Perthshire and Ashleigh fill a void as firstly Balmoral utd, increasingly frustrated after two recent call offs are bewildered their opponents Letham utd will not switch the tie if seven acres is again unplayable, reserving their right to home advantage, but may cause further chaos for both themselves and ground sharers Letham with the pitch in a state. Villareal get to test their metal against high flying Auchterarder, while Kettins could spring a small shock as Vale of Atholl visit.
On league duty, Alyth look for back to back wins as Letham come to visit, while Vale of Earn go in search of their first win at a full strength Burrelton after recent improved performances.
Comrie face a tricky tie at Kinrossie who had a good win over Fairfield at home and could provide tricky opposition, Jeanfield Swifts will be smarting with their cuffing from the league leaders last week and will not be happy a free scoring Coupar Angus are visiting. Guy Fawkes night has been and gone, but you can expect some fireworks when Craigie visit Fairfield with both clubs scratching for points and Ballinluig, who had a recent good result in Aberdeen, are on their travels to Bridgeton looking to extend their lead at the top, although silence as usual from the Bally camp.
In division three Letham Lads are expected to obtain maximum points from their trip to the Grove, but must be wary of their impressive home form, Methven host Star with both fighting for the spark to ignite their season while nothing but 3 points will do for Newtyle at Meigle as their climb up the division needs to take some momentum. Finally, Kenmore have their longest trip in the division as they trek all the way to Blair, to face Rattray who will look to continue their promotion push. I hope the Kenmore guys get a good wash for the trip home as this could be a muddy encounter.
After a dubious call off last week, when an all weather facility could of been secured but was not, Grammer Rovers were successful in securing this for their Scottish Cup 3rd round tie this week, however Wolfhill were seriously under strength and with a 4pm kick had some of their after match socialising cut short. However, as they have shown this season, they have a canny knack of gettin a result and battled hard to earn a reply at Guildtown this week. Comrie Rovers were not as successful on their travels, but took their hosts to extra time before falling just sort and can be more than happy with their performance and goal from Reilly at the couble, Abernethy and O'Donnell.
In the only Ashleigh cup tie to beat the deluge of rain, Tay Thistle secured a spot in the next round at the expense of their hosts Rattray as divisional superiority shown through.
On league duty, Vale of Earn appear to be picking up and getting closer to some precious points, just missing out on Saturday at home to Alyth by the odd goal in three. Coupar Angus bounced back into the title race with a seven goal demolition of Bridgeton at Almondbank. Ballinluig flew out of the traps at home to Swifts and were two up early through Morrison and Fraser, Jeanfield pulled one back and battled hard before Morrison nailed his second supported by Duncan, Blajez & Scymgeour before some Sifts indiscipline made their day a lot worse with 3 dismissal's after the scoring was complete which will have a knock on effect to their 3rd place aspirations with suspensions to follow. The result of the day was at Kinrossie as the Cale boys shown they were up for a second division survival fight coasting past Fairfield with the help of Buszek making a welcolme return. To round up, Meigle Vics came close to a precious point at home to Strathearn who have been in good recent form, falling just short losing by the odd goal in three.
Scottish Cup duty again this week for 6 Perthshire clubs as Wolfhill and St Johns will try again on their travels to Grammar Rovers in Aberdeen and Kilbirnie Ladeside in Ayrshire respectively, while Bridge of Earn, recent conquerors of Kenmore will mount up for a jaunt to Carluke to play the Hearts. Roselea welcome a second attempt and Carse Thistle to the South Inch, where emergence of a full squad should ensure victory. Comrie Rovers on the other hand face a tricky replay away from home @ Napier Uni, but if they take their chances this time round, could have a good chance of advancing. Taybank host Caird Park in the North of Tay with a possible home tie against Letham for the victors.
Other outstanding cup ties find Villareal hosting the form team in Perthshire, Auchterarder Primrose who should advance while the other two ties could require extra time to decide the winner as Tay Thistle head to Rattray and near neighbours Kettins host the Vale.
If seven acres holds up to the rain deluge this week, Letham utd wait the visit of Balmoral Utd in the Perthshire cup while after a late switch to the North Inch, Craigie entertain Letham.
On league duty, Vale of Earn will seek to get off the mark as Alyth, smarting after their cup exit last week, come to visit, while Burrelton Rovers have the long trip North to Breadalbane, unhappy after their provisional tie had been changed as they have players away to the Scotland game and they must face the meanest home defence in the division. In the second there are 3 games with 9 possible outcomes as all three are evenly matched. Bridgeton host Coupar Angus and both have yet to set the heather alight while Jeanfield must get something from table toppers Ballinluig to be in the title race. Fairfield will start favourites after their rout of the Vale last week, but Kinrossie are a different proposition at home.
In division three, wins are expected for Letham Lads at home to Star and Newtyle Hearts away to Kenmore to beef up the title race, on paper the Strath should leave Meigle with all three points and Methven should avoid being Errol's first victims at home.
The monthly meeting is this coming Tuesday, 17 November at the Luncarty Juniors social club.
Will it be fourth time lucky for both the Brig and Kenmore in their second round replay with a trip to Carluke next week awaiting the victors.
In the first open round of the national competition, teams come and Perthshire teams travel far and wide to pit their best ability to that of others in differing regions. Both Ballinluig and Wolfhill head North to face Aberdeenshire opposition, the Bally take on Ac Mill Inn or ‘Milan’ as their known as they play in their colours and sit mid table in the Premier Division, while Wolfhill have the slightly easier task of facing Grammar Rovers who are struggling in division 2 North. Newtyle Hearts entertain Terry Lynch’s free scoring barmy army in the shape of Ayr AFC who recently defeated Kilbowie Union only 2 weeks ago who are on their travels to face Burrelton Rovers and both West of Scotland clubs are strongly fancied. St Johns heard the other way to Ayshire to face Kilbirnie who have a strong community set up, professionally run with links all the way up to their junior club, so St Johns will need a lot of bottle to advance. Craigie head to the West, to face Kelvin who expect their club Patterson to return for this tie after a short injury lay off, while high flying premier league outfit Aitkenhead Thistle from the West of Scotland AFL travel to the Riverside to face a much changed Jeanfield Swifts with a new keeper in their ranks. Roselea head to Stirling for the second successive season with Carse Thistle, who have enjoyed two successive promotions in their way of a fourth round tie. Alyth entertain Cannon Fodder and should despatch the Saturday morning part timers while Comrie Rovers await Napier Uni from the capital who currently sit second from bottom in their division, but with games in hand. Auchterarder await the visit of Star Hearts from the Kindgom league and should send them back down the road with their pockets empty while a large crowd is expected at Breadalbane come kick off as they host the relatively unknown MLS Leeds from Lanarkshire.
Letham Lads will use their Ashleigh cup tie versus Coupar to gauge how they will fare next season if they gain promotion while Balmoral Utd will be red hot favourites in the Perthshire cup at Perth to inflict defeat on Letham Utd who could be distracted with squad unhappiness rearing its head.
On league duty Vale of Earn and Letham do battle again this week, but with the Vale having the edge at home.
Villareal host Bridgeton with a draw a good bet at the bookies, bottom spot and the wooden spoon is up for grabs as Thistle host Kinrossie while the division two game of the day see the Vale travel to take of mid table rivals Fairfield.
In division three, Strathearn Grove have picked up form in recent weeks and could be a serious threat the Rattray’s promotion push, Methven have the short hop up to Blair Atholl to face Star with both looking a spark to light their season while Saturday could finally see Errol FC gain their first win in a season and a half as they await Taybank who have struggled to field 11 in recent weeks.
More woe for the Brig as another week without a game due to the cancellation at Kenmore due to flooding as they still can’t get their second round replay played with the third round due next week.
In the North of Tay, holders Vale of Earn were sent crashing out by the odd goal in seven to Letham, despite scoring 3 crackers with both sets of managers forced to lace up their boots to field a team.
In the all Perthshire ties, Auchterarder hit Errol for eleven with a double brace for Patterson and hat tricks for Maher and Deans, Comrie played 50 minutes with 10 men and still sneaked past Coupar thanks to a double from Reilly and Ballinluig left it late at Kettins, but with a brilliant solo from 17yo Fenwick on his North of Tay debut sealed the win. St Johns after a late pitch inspection weathered the tough conditions the better to edge out Dundee Uni thanks to Wilkie and Carle. Letham Lads exacted their revenge over Douglas for last season’s somewhat questionable exit with home advantage and goals from Mann and Gowrie to ease through. Burrelton hit five to keep alive their cup hopes and they were joined in the 3rd round by Roselea who endured a tricky time, being under the cosh for most of the game at Arbroath, but returning the victors with a solitary special from Fairlie. Mixed fortunes for other clubs as Alyth, Rattray, Balmoral Utd, Kinrossie, Letham Utd and Craigie were all losers. The Strath fell just short by the odd goal in seven at Lowson after leading twice in the tie while Fairfield were well and truly humped by Menziehill, conceding eight. Newtyle Hearts had another crack at last season’s beaten finalists who knocked their hosts out along the way, different season but same score line as the Cash advance.
On league duty, The Swifts had the chance to go top, but they would have to inflict a first league defeat on Wolfhill to do so and fell just short as their hosts edged this encounter to rightfully take top spot thanks to a solo from Warner. In the other tie, after breaking the deadlock in the 60th minute, the Vale found themselves quickly behind to two quick counters for Tay Thistle only to hit their visitors for the same in the last 10 minutes to seal 3 points.
For the first time this season the weather wrecked havoc with 2 ties not getting the go ahead with a further 3 abandoned well into the match, with Newtyle Hearts the most aggrieved after being two up at home to Methven. In the game of the day Roselea had dominated their tie against fierce rivals St Johns for 75 minutes, with winger Cargill the star man notching both goals with some slick finishing. However the substitution of easily Roselea’s two best players on the day, man of the match Cargill and playmaker Scrymgeour, left all watching surprised and questions were asked by the players themselves on leaving the field. At this point the game changed and St Johns took control and created chance upon chance and it was no surprise when the equalizer went in and they still had a last chance to steal all 3 points at the end, but were more than happy to take an eventual point. Burrelton surprised after their home stalemate in the Scottish last week away to Elmwood turning in a solid performance to ease through to the third round where they will be joined by Craigie who defeated the Vale at home, although the game was closer than the score line suggests. Both top clubs Breadalbane and Letham advanced as expected in the Ashleigh cup against lower league opposition while the Strath travelled to seven acres to take the scalp of division rivals Letham Utd. In the division two league ties all 3 games went to the wire and were close affairs. An under strength Fairfield showed they had quality in their squad holding Wolfhill to a three all draw and their first dropped points. Tay Thistle and Bridgeton each missed 3 or 4 players through suspension and it was the latter who earned maximum points by the odd goal in five to climb the league as did Perth Villareal at home to Kinrossie, who could not follow up last week’s good win. Errol remain pointless in division three after going down by the odd goal in three to fellow bottom club Meigle while Rattray showed their class to comfortably see off near rivals Kettins and effectively knock them out of the title race, even at this early stage.
Kenmore almost caused the shock last week being held at the Brig and will hope home advantage is enough to see them advance to the open third round draw as will Craigie who twice could have ended their tie at the first attempt, must now travel to the Vale to finish the job, while Burrelton start the underdogs on their travels to Elmwood.
In the remaining Ashleigh cup ties, after their defeat to Cannon Fodder last week, Taybank will no doubt be the same on their travels to Breadalbane. Coupar v the Lads should be a cracker and hard to pick a winner from as is the Strath’s visit to Letham utd, while their near neighbours Letham head North to a banana skin at Star.
The game of the day is the top divisions two closest rivals in recent years as St Johns entertain fierce rivals Roselea, still smarting from heavy defeats last season. The winner of this encounter should lead the pack at the top come Christmas with probably Auchterarder if they can take maximum points at home to Alyth.
In division two, the swifts keeper Sorrie believes and would wager a top 3 finish is achievable and nothing but a win at rivals Comrie can be expected to help achieve that. A heavily suspended Bridgeton and likewise Tay Thistle battle with their squads for points while Wolfhill should keep their 100%record intact at Fairfield. Villareal are back in good form but will find Kinrossie, after a couple of good wins a slightly different opponent than expected.
In division Three bottom clubs Errol and Meigle do battle for could eventually be the wooden spoon, while a couple of crackers are in the offing as Newtyle await Methven who know anymore dropped points and their out of the tile race, while a local derby sees Kettins travel to Rattray both chasing for points to catch the league leaders Letham Lads.
In a weekend of mixed fortunes, there were more losses than wins for Perthshire clubs in the Scottish Cup with only 10 advancing outright, with a further 3 having another crack next weekend. On the positive side, Auchterarder advanced as expected over the Tayside Fire Brigade but the tie was closer than expected and strikes by Deans and Cunnigham were enough. An under strength Ballinluig ousted division rivals Villareal as did Comrie away to Meigle Vics. Wolfhill again won another all Perthshire battle after a class second half display after going in level at the break they hit Three without reply with a double from Knowles to power through. As expected, a Roselea win over Balmoral was delivered as was the Swifts win over Errol, although they just avoided a replay. Letham Lads were two one up with 10 minutes to play and through it away to crash out to Newort and a late collapse, losing 4 goals in the last 10 minutes did Tay Thistle no favours with their score line against Riverside. Amongst the most notable of faller were the once dominate Letham, now struggling for form and thumped on their travels by Bank Street, Vale Of Atholl came crashing back to reality after their shock cup win last week, throwing in a stinker to be hammered by Caird Park at home. Newtyle Hearts impressed with a comfortable win at home to Claypotts while St Johns bagged the most goals with 12 without reply as the Young Boys were taught a lesson by strikers Carle and Willkie with hat tricks. Breadalbane sneaked through by the odd goal at Merpo and Alyth were on form to see out a tricky trip to Douglas. Teams with it all to do again next week are Craigie who led twice but could not see off the Vale, Kenmore earned the right to take the Brig back up north after a goalless draw and Burrelton could not get a vital goal at home to Elmwood and will start the underdogs next week.
On league duty, Kettins moved second and overtook their opponents Methven with a 5 goal demolition while Star Of Atholl, similar to their near neighbours Vale, could not follow up last week’s good performance losing 7 goals in a second half horror show at Seven acres.
Most Perthshire clubs head out on the quest for Hampden glory in the last of the regional rounds of the Scottish Cup before the all in draw. Auchterarder host one of the Midlands top clubs in Tayside Fire Brigade who have a successful history, but have fallen by the wayside in previous seasons and should be no match for the Primrose. Ballinluig entertain fellow division rivals Villareal looking to bounce back from their heavy loss last week. An out of sorts Letham, with Ribgy back in their ranks travel to play Bank Street. On their travels are Alyth to Dryburgh and Coupar Angus to Douglas, both confident of a 3rd round berth. Rattray and Breadalbane are cleaning out on their minibuses for their travels, also versus midlands opposition, while St Johns could be the first Perthshire team through with an early kick off versus the Young Boys, or the first big faller, hopefully Murray will step up to the mic this week to make himself heard at the back. Many Perthshire clubs have home ties with the pick of Claypotts heading to Newtyle, Tay Thistle hosting the mighty Riverside while Caird Park have the longest jaunt all the way up to Pitlochry to face a resurgent Vale. In all Perthshire ties, the Brig should advance at the expense of Kenmore, as will Swifts at home to Errol and Comrie on their travels to Meigle. Kinrossie notched a good win last week and could cause an upset at Wolfhill while the local game of the day sees Roselea and Balmoral go head to head yet again, with the latter still searching for something from their previous games that will give them confidence going into this one. On league duty, Methven host Kettins with gaffer Lindsay hoping his boys get the message, get points on the board so Rattray and the Lads don’t pull away at the top. Finally, Letham Utd could not emulate their previous weeks heroics and were knocked out of the Scottish early and face a tricky home versus Star who showed up well against 10 man Roselea last week.
A strengthened University side comfortably swept aside Letham United on home soil to advance to a second round tie against another Perthshire side in the first round of the Scottish cup. The Vale’s poor run continues as were knocked out in the first round of the Ashleigh by Rattray. In the Perthshire, Kinrossie secured a good win at home to Taybank inspired by a peach from gaffer Horne, while Comrie easily seen off divisional rivals Villareal. Wolfhill bounced back from last week’s defeat to see off the Strath while Ballinluig showed, despite their relegation last season, they could compete in the top division after an extra time victory at the Brig. Extra time was required also as the shock of the round was an almost at Blair Atholl as Roselea just avoided the dreaded penalty shootout against Star thanks to a winner from Birrell after Scrimgeour’s early bath. However, the shock of the round was at their near neighbours Vale of Atholl, who delivered what was their most comprehensive defeat in recent years for St Johns. Two down early doors was doubled to four at the break as the title favourites were not at the races and were soundly beaten as Thorne notched his hat trick, although a mini collapse in the last 10 minutes made the score respectable. Auchterarder, as expected hit Methven for six as Patterson top scored with a hat trick and solitary second half strike helped Letham see off Bridgeton. Both Tay Thistle and Swifts were on the goals trail with sixteen combined in their wins over bottom clubs Errol and Meigle, Clubs advancing to the third round was complete as Breadalbane comfortably brushed aside Fairfield and Kettins fell to a second half double at home to Alyth.
On league duty, both Burrelton and Balmoral again shared a goal apiece and a point apiece in the second and final league meeting this season. Craigie were on top form and were comfortably three up at home to Coupar Angus and while the score could of easily been a lot more, they almost threw it away losing two late goals, but held on for a very vital win. Letham Lads finally got themselves organised enough to register a home win over Kenmore to keep their title ambitions on track and are now the clear favourites for the division three title.
In a very successful day for Perthshire clubs in the first round of the Scottish Cup, four clubs advanced to fight in the next round, Alyth sneaked through by the odd goal in three at home to new comers Parktool. Bridge Of Earn knocked out Star in a local tie while Coupar Angus were in seven heaven at home to Mitchelin with doubles from Feaks and Maloney. Letham united earned a late, late replay after snatching two goals in the final minute as Dundee University collapsed and threw away their lead to set up the replay. Upsetting the applecart were Kettins who were soundly beaten by FC Polonia.
In the local cups Auchterarder defeated Burrelton by the same scoreline for the second time in a month with a Deans double standing out. In already their third meeting this season, with another due in the Scottish in 2 weeks, Roselea defeated Balmoral for the third time in the Ashleigh cup. Also advancing in the Ashleigh were Bridgeton utd, Fairfield and St Johns who racked up ten goals without reply at home to Meigle Vics, recent summer signings McGillvery and Wilkie each notching hat tricks with a double from their seasoned winger McCabe. In a carried forward Smith League cup tie, Letham Lads edged out Methven after Houghton had been sent off for them, with Cargill & McMahon getting their counters.
On league duty, Breadalbane rocketed to the top of division one after their third win on the bounce after drawing their opening three, taking full advantage of a decimated Letham team, with players missing. ‘These games need to be won’ said their prolific striker Price, who notched on the day.
In division two Villareal finally showed what they are capable of by resigning Tay Thistle to their second massive defeat in as many weeks in this eight goal mauling. Kinrossie/Caledonian are still to get off the mark as Ballinluig left with all three points, while the swifts and Craigie could not be separated at the Riverside as the only winner was the blustery conditions, as they both had to settle for a point a piece.
Rattray moved top of the third with a battling win at home to Taybank while the Grove found Errol tricky opposition as this tie looked like heading for a draw before Hendry completed his double and Ward & Dewar made the points safe.
Four time North Of Tay cup winners Fair City, were unceremoniously dumped out of this year’s competition at the first time of asking. In a tale of two managers, firstly Ewart of City who has struggled to get his first win with a small squad since his appointment when many regulars chose to leave, while Gormley of Fairfield has his troops flying high at the top of the second division and in the Smith League cup and it was the latter who guided his team to the next round after a battling second half display with 10 men thanks to a Gilruth double and a Lumsden winner. There were joined by St Johns who had muted early doors it could be their year, but huffed and puffed for 70 minutes and only realised some potential when Quinn and Campbell were introduced after being a goal down and heading out, but Campbell sealed an unimpressive come from behind win. Unfortunately, there were 5 fallers at the first fence as Villareal went down to the impressive Invergowrie, Wolfhill were handed defeat by Kinross despite a Souter double and The Vale, Tay Thistle and Meigle Vics were all easily defeated although Burrelton did manage to ease through blitzing Monifieth for six.
In the Perthshire cup, Will Coleman showed he had the mustard in sudden death, slotting home the fifteenth penalty as Craigie Edged out the Lads after extra time, as did Letham utd at home to Kenmore although the standard ten penalties were only required. To round up the Perthshire cup Coupar Angus coasted through as their close visitors could not tame Maloney at the double.
In the Ashleigh cup Alyth edged Newtyle, Comrie hammered last season’s previous divisional rivals Methven for Eight as S Ward top scored with a double brace supported by a brace from B Ward. Finally, as in the league cup, Ballinluig edged out the Swifts with goals from Fraser and Morrison.
On league duty, Vale Of Earn were dealt another heavy loss at the hands of Breadalbane, Balmoral and Bridge of Earn could not be separated and share a goal and a point a piece, while a solo strike from Cunningham was enough to send Auchterarder to the top of the table at the expense of last season champions Letham.
In division Three, as expected The Strath travelled to Kettins and gained a point while Star of Atholl consider referee Barclay their lucky charm as they again won over bottom club Errol.