Match Report

Sun September 7th

vs Tullibody Thistle

A close match in Clackmannan, as two late goals see the Norries home. 

League newcomers Tullibody welcomed the Norries to their home park and immediately set out on the offensive.  It took the Norries 10 minutes to get their game together, but they soon began to push the home team back.  Most of the play in the first period was confined to midfield and whilst the Norries had the edge in chances, there was little to choose between the sides. 

The Norries were threatening from every dead ball and early in the second period, a corner by Jack Matson was missed by the 'keeper and CHRIS GORDON headed home.  The Norries were now on top and creating chances, but the home 'keeper was in great form.  Then, just a minute from the end of the period, the Tullibody left-winger broke clear, cut inside the box and fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner.  One period to go and back to 1-1. 

The final period started with the Norries under pressure, but starting to string some passes together.  A headed clearance by Ally Brown was passed right from Chris Gordon to Conor Durie, who released Conner Hutchison to the bye-line.  His driven cross was perfect for DARREN CAMPBELL to knock the ball home from two yards out. 

Now the game began to stretch and when Darren Campbell broke clear, he knocked the ball past the advancing keeper and was duly flattened.  The ref had no option but a red card for the 'keeper and a free kick to the Norries.  The free kick was blocked but when it was returned into the box, CONNER HUTCHISON was on hand to fire the ball home. 

This was a very competitive game which was in the balance until late on.  The Norries had to dig deep to get the result, whilst Tullibody played some quality football throughout.  Both sides look in good shape for the new season.