Troon Football Club

MATCH REPORT by Michael Connolly

Saturday 3rd August saw the start of Troon F.C.s League campaign; not an easy opener, away to last season’s runners-up Hurlford United. Blair Park was buzzing – not just with excitement, but due to the numbers of wasps! It was an extremely hot and sunny afternoon, and the pitch was in good condition.

“The Ford” had the better of the early exchanges, and created two early chances – in addition to a shot coming off the post in the 17th minute. Not surprisingly they took the lead just 5 minutes later, courtesy of former St. Johnstone midfielder Liam Caddis. Most of their opportunities were coming down their right flank.

It was a tousy affair and two yellow cards were produced by the referee in quick succession just after the half hour mark. Chris Robertson was the home team’s culprit, followed by Troon’s Evan Maley. ScoJo made a couple of fine saves. We were fortunate only to be 1-0 down at the interval.

HALF-TIME: HURLFORD UNITED 1-0 TROON F.C.

The second half saw us more of an attacking threat. The home team scored a second goal in the 55th minute. A Troon substitution followed with Steven McCreadie replacing Dean Fulton.

We were given a lifeline in the 73rd minute when Hurlford’s Ryan Caddis, booked just a minute after coming on for impeding a free-kick, was shown a second yellow card for simulation after running through on goal at the advancing ScoJo. The two players had a moment of handbags, with the Troon keeper also receiving a caution as the ‘Ford sub walked.

Ten minutes from time Ryan Stevenson was clipped by former Troon man Chris McKnight, and he duly converted from the penalty spot to leave Murchie with no chance. We pushed hard, bit the Hurlford defence played well and held out for the 3 points.

A disappointing opener to our league campaign. We were not at our best against a very good home side, particularly their back four.

MAN OF THE MATCH: SCOTT JOHNSTONE

Courtesy of the Kilmarnock Standard series (Daily Record)

REFEREE: Connor Ashwood
ASSISTANT REFEREE: Cameron Lyle
ASSISTANT REFEREE: Chris Irving

 

NEXT FIXTURE

Troon F.C. versus Cumnock

Wednesday 7 August 2019