Clydebank 4
Brechin City 2
League (Division 2)

Match Report

Bankies break their duck at last! A confident, cohesive, and skilful performance saw Clydebank register their first league win of the season, overcoming a determined Brechin City side 4–2 at Kilbowie. It was a match that brought genuine optimism to the home support, many of whom left the ground chanting “Bankies! Bankies!”—a sound not heard for some time.

The win marked a turning point in what has been a difficult season. While the result was by no means routine—Brechin proved a dogged and capable opponent—it showcased a Clydebank side beginning to believe in themselves.

There were still areas for improvement. At times, the forwards were guilty of taking on too much, and some of the passing lacked sharpness. But with the return of Joe Rankin to lead the line, the attack carried a more purposeful threat, and it wasn’t long before the Brechin defence was under serious pressure.

Ironically, it was the visitors who took the lead after 15 minutes. Clydebank goalkeeper Sandy McLachlan failed to hold a shot from Thompson, and Irvine was first to react, slotting home the rebound. The goal was a setback, but it didn’t rattle the Bankies for long.

Nine minutes later, Tony Moy levelled the score with a composed finish after a scramble in the six-yard box. Frank Russell then edged Clydebank in front on the half hour, drilling home a powerful strike from 18 yards to put the home side 2–1 up at the break.

Brechin, however, came out flying in the second half. Just two minutes after the restart, John Wark was adjudged to have handled in the area, and Brechin centre-half Tocher converted the penalty to make it 2–2.

The match remained tense until the 76th minute, when Clydebank were awarded a penalty of their own. Rankin was brought down in the box, and Moy confidently stepped up to restore the Bankies' lead. Then, with three minutes remaining, Russell capped a fine individual performance with a superb flying header from a Moy cross to seal a 4–2 victory.

There was late drama when referee Watson was forced to leave the field after slipping on the wet turf and injuring his ankle. One of the linesmen took over for the closing moments, but the result was already beyond doubt.

Clydebank did have the ball in the net on two further occasions, but both efforts were ruled out for offside. While the decisions were contentious, they did not affect the outcome.

One standout performer was Ernie Collumbine. His tireless running, strength in the tackle, and ability to support both defence and attack earned him deserved praise. “Powerhouse Ernie” seems an apt nickname for a player whose influence was felt all over the park.

This result lifts Clydebank's spirits and raises hopes that they can now build some momentum. If they can take this level of performance into next week’s trip to Cowdenbeath, there’s every chance they can begin to climb the table.

Match report written by Stuart McBay