WEST LOTHIAN COUNTY CUP, QUARTER-FINAL: Sunday 11 December, 2016, Mosswood Community Complex, Livingston

Two goals from Kieran inspired Bathgate to victory and a place in the County Cup semi-finals as Harvey were ruthlessly swept aside.

On a somewhat small and inhibiting pitch in Knightsridge, the Thistle players adapted to the tight dimensions and played their own brand of high-tempo football. They also scored some fine goals to earn a place in the last four at the expense of their B League hosts.

Kieran opened the scoring with a straightforward conversion at the back post following some incessant Bathgate pressure. The visitors were ahead at the interval but took some time to consolidate and score again.

Matty claimed the goal which put them 2-0 up. His header at the back post ricocheted off an opponent before landing in the net. However, Harvey reduced the deficit from the penalty spot moments later. Bailey had endured a frustrating afternoon up front but showed his quality to pounce on a loose ball inside the penalty box and put his team 3-1 ahead and out of sight.

In the final minutes, Kieran again showed his goal threat, meeting David’s cross to the far post and planting a towering header into the Harvey net.

It was a difficult assignment for Thistle against a fired-up home side and boisterous crowd. In the end, class took them through to the semis – along with some excellent performances from Ross, James, Sam, Elliot, Darren, John, David, Kieran C, Kieran O, Bailey, Dylan, Matty, Leon and Sean.