"We were hanging on at the end, there’s no doubt about that, but it was a gutsy display" was the tribute paid by Stuart McCall after the game. The 1-0 win was in large part due to the players' determination not to concede in the second half. Many in the home crowd were frustrated as we lost the initiative after the break but there were mitigating circumstances.
The wall stood firm
After a poor start we took charge following McManus' goal and ruled the roost for the last half hour of the first period. In truth we created chances to extend our lead but it seemed inevitable that the job would be finished in the second half.
An examination of the injury list explains a lot; Ramsden departed early with a hamstring tear that will keep him out for weeks, Hammell had to have six stitches in an ankle gash and left with 30 minutes remaining, McFadden and Ainsworth, returning from long absences, were out of gas in the second half, McManus and Lasley have groin problems, Carswell carried an ankle injury from the first half and finally Hutchinson (already limping) was sent off. It looks certain that three of our normal back four will be missing on Saturday.
Attention will be distracted from the walking wounded on Tuesday when the draw for the William Hill Scottish Cup takes place at lunchtime in Aberdeen. Alex Ferguson will assist in pairing the 32 teams for the fourth round ties that will take place at the end of November.
Given our recent awful form in a variety of cup competitions we'll be hoping for a gentle introduction - a Fir Park visit from Fraserburgh or Albion Rovers would do nicely!
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