Match Report
Clydebank ended their pre-Christmas programme on a high note with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Second Division side Stenhousemuir at Kilbowie.
The visitors and the Bankies both struggled to find their rhythm in the opening stages, with several promising opportunities wasted by careless finishing. As the half progressed, however, Clydebank began to take control and produced some of their best football of the afternoon.
Their pressure was rewarded after 29 minutes. Tony Moy managed to prod the ball through despite being challenged by two Stenhousemuir defenders, and Tom Connelly calmly finished to put the home side ahead.
Stenhousemuir responded positively and came close to an equaliser when Smith's header struck the post. Clydebank remained dangerous, however, and continued to press for a second goal before the interval. A remarkable double chance saw efforts from both McLeish and McGhee blocked by determined defending.
The visitors emerged after the break looking a more confident side and soon began to dictate play. Their forwards tested the Clydebank defence repeatedly, but goalkeeper Brown produced a number of important saves to preserve the lead.
The pressure eventually told in the 58th minute when Stenhousemuir drew level from a direct free-kick. Right-back Hutton struck the effort firmly and Brown was unable to prevent the ball finding the net.
With the scores level, Clydebank pushed hard for a winner. Right winger Alan McLeish was particularly influential, repeatedly troubling the Stenhousemuir defence with a series of powerful runs and dangerous crosses. Time and again he created openings, only for the final touch to desert his teammates.
The decisive moment arrived five minutes from time. Connelly collected the ball inside the penalty area and embarked on a fine solo run, beating three defenders before slipping his shot into the net to secure victory for the Bankies.
Clydebank sought to add to their lead during the closing stages, but the increasingly muddy conditions made good football difficult. The nearest they came was when Joe Rankin fired wide from close range.
Connelly's two goals ultimately proved the difference in an entertaining contest and ensured Clydebank finished the afternoon with a notable victory over higher-league opposition.
Match report written by Stuart McBay
