Bathgate Thistle 2001 4 v 1 Bathgate Thistle 2002

Simpsons, Bathgate – Thursday 19 March 2015 – Friendly

Thistle 2001 and 2002 sides faced one another in a friendly match, under the flood lights, in order to get some valuable game time after so many winter call off’s.   The 2001’s ran out 4 -1 winners but the score probably didn’t reflect how competitive the game was, with the 2002 making their older colleagues work hard for the result.

Shooting toward the school end, the 2001’s went ahead after an early goal with Harry nodding in from close range.  Lewis then extended the lead with a thunderbolt shot from just inside the box.  The teams went in 2-0 at half time.  Then shortly after the restart, the 2002s pulled a goal back after a deflected own goal.  It wasn’t until late in the game that the 2001’s secured the win, with two late goals from Bailey.  The first was a looping headed across the goal into the far corner, then Connor had a great run and blocked shot which Bailey was able to finish.  Gareth then made a great save from the penalty spot to prevent the 2002s pulling a goal back.

All in all, it was an entertaining game. Both sides pressed one another high up the pitch, not allowing for much time on the ball, but it was a good run out and a highly competitive match.