Stenhousemuir 0
Clydebank 0
League (Division 2)

Match Report

A tight, scoreless draw at Ochilview Park left both Clydebank and Stenhousemuir with a point apiece after a game dominated by resolute defending.

While the lack of goals might disappoint some, the quality of defending on display was undeniable. Dick Madden, the Clydebank goalkeeper, pulled off a miraculous one-handed save ten minutes from time to deny a Graham header. His opposite number, Ritchie, made amends for earlier dropped balls with several impressive stops of his own.

The first half saw both teams evenly matched, with Stenhousemuir holding a slight edge after the break. However, a tireless performance by Clydebank's young forward, Hawkshaw, gradually brought them back into the game. Despite fielding four 17-year-old forwards, Hawkshaw's energy and leadership kept them a threat throughout the match.

Stenhousemuir's creative midfielder, McGregor, orchestrated many attacks, but their striking woes were evident again. The Warriors' backline, marshalled by Smith, had a particularly strong game. Smith's tackling was fierce, and his distribution echoed the legendary Alex Parker in his prime. The midfield duo of McGregor and McAllister were tireless workhorses, while the forwards had a frustrating afternoon.

Substitute Ramsay offered a spark for Stenhousemuir, providing good support for Graham, who never gave up despite a lack of service throughout the match. One pinpoint cross from Ramsay in the dying minutes looked like it might snatch the win, but Madden's acrobatic save ensured a share of the spoils.

Both teams can take heart from their defensive solidity, but Stenhousemuir must address their lack of cutting edge in attack if they are to climb the table. Clydebank, meanwhile, can be proud of the performance of their young attackers, who showed promise despite fading slightly in the later stages.

Match report written by and adapted by Stuart McBay