Caledonian United 0 Largs Colts 2002 2

The Prestwick side were sitting in the lower half of the league but are always a tough challenge for Colts and this was no exception.

On ten minutes, powerful midfielder Bainbridge took a good touch stepped inside and struck powerfully into the net for his first competitive Colts goal and the opener for Largs. Further chances were created by Colts with some excellent passing football.

Colts were rarely threatened despite the home side playing three up top. That said, on 23 minutes Colts were caught open and the Caley striker should have done better when through on goal – a let off for Colts. Largs were quickly back on offensive with Smith striking a first time effort just wide of the goal before McTaggart fashioned an opening for a strike which went wide of the target as the first half ended.

Although playing some excellent football and dominating possession Largs were only one up at the break and knew they would have to start strong to give the opposition no encouragement.

Colts were playing some excellent quick passing football and creating openings though again found a keeper on top form. On 43 minutes R.Coupar was next to strike at goal though the keeper stretched well to save and hold the ball.

The pressure was telling, and Brown finished superbly to get Colts that vital second goal on 51 minutes. Robson then made way for Barbour at centre back. Loudon, who had a great game, was being worked well by the tricky winger as was Leishman who was not only defending well but also offering up in attack at every opportunity. Keeper Irwin pushed the ball round the post for an outstanding save. The big Colts striker, Smith, found himself in the book on 54 minutes, and was replaced by Wilson before Leishman, cutting in from the left, had an effort on goal. Brown and Cormack, who both put in a strong shift, were replaced by J.Coupar and Blair.

Weir controlled the back line with Robson and full backs Loudon and Leishman were excellent at the back and going forward. The midfield four were dominant and all worked hard throughout. Up front Smith and Brown worked well with Brown getting the crucial second. Man of the Match was a close call with Cormack, R.Coupar, McTaggart, Loudon and Leishman all contenders. The vote went to Leishman for some excellent positional play and a real attacking threat down the flank.

Colts move up to second, five points behind leaders AC Irvine with two games in hand and have a home tie against a very tough Galston side next week.

Largs: Irwin (GK), Robson, Loudon, Weir, Leishman, R.Coupar(C), Bainbridge, Cormack, McTaggart, Smith, Brown. Subs:. J.Coupar, Barbour, Blair, Wilson