Match Report

Sun February 24th

vs Elgin Star

A hat-trick from Conor Durie brightens up a dour struggle with Elgin Star, in a mudbath at Paton Street.

A strong wind and very heavy conditions made for a slog of a match in which the Norries started very slowly.  Playing into the gale in the first period, they had most of the ball but rarely looked like finding the breakthrough.  Elgin were competing well all over the park and the Norries were having difficulty stringing together their passes.

In the second period, with the wind behind them, the Norries took control and were camped in the home half.  A goal seemed inevitable, but the final passes were being carried on the wind beyond the Norries attack.  Finally, a ball through the centre of the home defence was chased down by Conor Durie, and when the goalie missed his challenge, CONOR DURIE was left with a tap in to the empty net. 

With their noses in front, the Norries pushed on for the all-important second goal.  Conor Durie, Liam Kinch and Jack Hynd all went close, whilst the home 'keeper made a string of good saves.  Into the final period and the Norries were in command.  Another pass through the centre gave CONOR DURIE another run in on goal and he despatched the ball into the corner of the net. 

It was all Norries, but a slack pass in midfield allowed Elgin a break, which led to a corner.   The cross was caught by the wind, eluded Andrew Jackson in the Norries goal, and was fired home by an Elgin attacker.   2-1 and still 20 minutes to go. 

This was met by an immediate response and the Norries surged forward to restore the lead, CONOR DURIE was played in beautifully by Calum Reilly and again beat the 'keeper fron 10 yards.  With Elgin beginning to tire, the Norries laid seige to the home goal.  Several chances went begging before CAMMY ROBERTSON outpaced the home defence and chipped a delightful shot over the 'keeper and into the net. 

It had been an effective performance in very difficult conditions and whilst the passing game didn't quite click for period, it was a well-deserved victory.  Elgin worked hard and closed down well in the middle of the park.  Conor Durie takes the honours with his hat-trick, but there were several strong performances in defence and midfield that laid the foundations for the win.