Clydebank 2
Cowdenbeath 3
League (Division 2)

Match Report

Clydebank let a valuable victory slip from their grasp at New Kilbowie on Saturday, surrendering a 2–1 lead in the second half as Cowdenbeath staged a late comeback to snatch all three points.

Playing with the wind at their backs in the first half, the Bankies had an early chance through Tony Moy, whose shot skimmed just past the post. But it was the visitors who took the lead after only eight minutes. Left-back Mowbray surged down the wing and delivered an excellent cross for Donaldson, who met it with a superb flying header that left McLachlan with no chance.

The early setback unsettled Clydebank, and for a spell Cowdenbeath looked the likelier side to score again. However, the Bankies soon found their rhythm. A notable debut came from Walter Gerard, newly signed from Berwick Rangers just five minutes before kick-off and formerly of ES Clydebank. The centre-forward made an immediate impact, finishing off a move started by Moy in the 32nd minute to level the match.

Buoyed by the equaliser, Clydebank pressed forward and four minutes later took the lead. Frank Russell whipped in a cross and this time Moy was on hand to convert, putting the home side 2–1 ahead at the break.

The second half saw a key tactical change from Cowdenbeath as their junior trialist, previously playing inside left, was moved into the centre. The switch turned the game. On the hour mark, Cowdenbeath equalised with a goal almost identical to their first. This time it was right-back Rolland who launched the attack down the flank, delivering a pinpoint cross that Clark nodded home to make it 2–2.

Despite their efforts, Clydebank struggled to regain the initiative. Their passing became increasingly erratic, and Cowdenbeath’s defence stood firm. With five minutes to play, the visitors made their pressure count. After forcing a corner, the ball broke kindly for the trialist forward, who stabbed it past McLachlan to complete the turnaround.

It was a frustrating defeat for the Bankies, who had looked in control at half-time but paid the price for lapses in concentration and missed opportunities after the break.

Match report written by Stuart McBay