BOB MALCOLM LEAGUE CUP: Tuesday 26 April, 2016, Stewartfield, Broxburn

A second-half rally by Bathgate Thistle saw them overhaul a two-goal deficit to beat Broxburn United for the second time in three days thanks to David’s stunning hat-trick. From 2-0 down, the boys in blue mustered enough resilience to score four times in the final 30 minutes to secure a fifth straight League Cup win.

David’s performance was the catalyst as he inspired his team to a rousing success. A 0-0 interval scoreline indicated a keenly-contested affair with very few scoring chances at either end. Bathgate’s performance had been sluggish and their players were eager to improve in the second half.

However, they found themselves 2-0 behind very quickly. Broxburn’s No.10 Daniel scored a 30-yard free-kick and struck again from distance to give his team a huge advantage.

Like many of his his team-mates, David came to life at that point. His first goal was a well drilled shot from just inside the penalty area, then came a composed finish after he sprinted through on goal. From seemingly nowhere, Bathgate were level.

The visitors by now had the momentum and continued probing at the Broxburn goal. They were awarded a penalty for a foul on Bailey, and David stepped up to slot the ball home from the spot and secure his hat-trick. He also played a key role in the fourth Bathgate goal. He collected the ball after Dylan’s tackle and charged forward for a cross which Leon hit goalwards, only for the Broxburn keeper Callum to save. Bailey was on hand to prod the rebound home from close range.

Broxburn reduced the deficit in the final minute but there was no mistaking the spirit shown by the Bathgate players to haul themsleves back into this match. Darren, Sean, Jay and Ross defended well, while Sam, Leon, Dylan and Kieran worked tirelessly in midfield to help earn the victory.