Match report

Match report

Stirling United travelled to Woodside anticipating a tight clash given the competitiveness of these two teams over the last few seasons. Stirling took the honours in the previous clash this season, but the 3-0 victory that time flattered them as the match was a very even affair. Through the first 20 minutes, both sides had opportunities, but it was Woodside who had the better, with a shot from Jett Tonkin striking the left hand upright but bouncing back into the field of play. Woodside continued to attack, but somewhat against the run of play, a clearance found Toby Leigh clear on the wing. Leigh ran forward and took a shot across the keeper which found the back of the net to see Stirling take an unexpected lead.

In the latter stages of the first half, both sides had further chances, the best of which was another shot from Leigh that also found the woodwork leaving Stirling with the slenderest of margins at half time.

After the break, Woodside continued to pressure the Stirling back line. On a number of occasions Lachlan Stein in goal for Stirling raced out to make a definitive final challenge to snuff out attacking chances for Woodside. With a back line of Ky Henry, Kye McDonald, Emily Bouchereau and Matt Silcock repelling attacks stoutly, Stirling fought bravely to hold on for the win, but Woodside can consider themselves unlucky to not have at least taken a point from the game. Given their overall field dominance on the day, it would not have surprised if the score had been reversed.