Alloa Athletic 0 Ayr United 1

Last updated : 16 September 2006 By Footymad Previewer
In a hard-fought match at Recreation Park, Ayr United deserved to take the points for their second-half performance.

Alloa started the stronger side, and in the eighth minute John Grant came close when he connected with a Robert Sloan cross, but his strong header was well saved by Mark McGeown in the Ayr goal.

Alloa continued to put pressure on the Ayr defence, and in the 21st minute Grant ran at the Ayr defence, but his cross was saved two yards out by McGeown at the feet of the on-rushing Graeme Brown.

Ayr were dealt a serious blow in the 23rd minute when they lost the services of Brian Reid following an accidental collision with Ross Hamilton. Reid was replaced by 19-year-old Craig Pettigrew.

In the 30th minute Paul Weaver came close with a 25-yard shot which caught the Alloa goal keeper of the line but the shot went over the bar.

Allo'as Ross Hamilton appeared to be fouled in the 54th minute as he ran in on goal, but much to the annoyance of the Alloa players and fans the referee waved away any penalty claims that were made.

Ary United got the goal they deserved in the 63rd minute when Paul Weaver connected with a Jerome Vareille cross from 12 yards out and gave Allan Creer in the Alloa goal no chance.

Alloa tried to get into the match but they had nothing to offer, and in the end Ayr were worthy winners.