FC Geldie v Ellon Thistle

Division One North

For the first time in four years, Ellon Thistle kicked off the new season with a victory. Goals from Joe Roger and Darren Bailey earned the Jags the three points as an unfamiliar Ellon side lined up against FC Geldie at Sheddocksley. Formartine United's under 19 side provided five of Ellon's first eleven including skipper for the day Owen Watt. Despite the suspensions of Bruce Alexander and Michael Wild, the influx of youngsters to the side resulted in regular starter and last seasons player of the year Stephen Cruickshanks having to settle for a place on the substitutes bench.

The home side had the better chances in the first half and struck the post early on before Thistle went in front. There was an element of fortune about the goal as a cross from Joe ROGER beat the Geldie goalkeeper and landed in the back of the net. Roger appeared to be attempting a cross into the box but the forward will no doubt tell a different story.

Towards the end of the first half, Thistle's goalkeeper Lewis Milne was penalised for handling outside his box. The referee called play back to award the free kick and Milne escaped with just a booking.

Half Time: FC Geldie 0 Ellon Thistle 1

Just seconds after the restart, Darren BAILEY doubled Ellon's advantage. He latched onto an incisive Martin Galley pass and confidently fired a low shot into the corner of the net.

Geldie had opportunities at the other end but were denied by last ditch tackles and poor finishing but as the game wore on, a third Thistle goal looked more likely. Midfielder Euan Ramage's debut was brought to an end through injury and he was replaced by Stephen Cruickshanks. Goalscorer Bailey was also withdrawn on the hour mark and after a midfield reshuffle Mark Cockburn took his place wide on the right. Thistle's final change saw the mercurial Michael Gibson replace Joe Roger. Gibson almost marked his return to the club with a goal but his ambitious effort flew narrowly wide.

Substitute Cockburn began to find space on the right and could have added to Thistle's tally but he dragged his shot wide. Stephen Cruickshanks almost grabbed a rare goal but was denied by an upright before Martyn Duncan volleyed over from a Cockburn cross.

Despite a late flurry of chances, the game ended 2-0 and a great start for new manager Craig Sutherland and his new look Thistle side.

Final Score: FC Geldie 0 Ellon Thistle 2

Ellon Thistle: Milne, Watson, Drummond, Giles, Watt, C. Duncan, M. Duncan, Galley, Ramage (Stephen Cruickshanks), Roger (Gibson), Bailey (Cockburn). Subs not used: Simon Cruickshanks, Biffen.

Man of the Match: Callum Duncan