Keith 1 v Lossiemouth 0

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN FOR THE MAROONS 

The Number Seven was a constant factor in this hard fought clash which saw Keith emerge as worthy winners. Their first victory over the Coasters in two years stretched their current unbeaten run to seven games – the winning goal came from Gavin Elphinstone, wearing the number seven shirt, seven minutes into the second half, for his seventh goal of the season!

The victory, plus results elsewhere, saw Craig Ewen’s men move back up into 12th spot in the league table. It was no stroll in the park though as the Maroons with their new found determination kept battling throughout.

In a goal-less first half Keith probably carved out the better chances, nearly scoring in the 3rd minute following a goalmouth scramble before an Elphinstone snap shot from 20 yards forced Lossie custodian Cammy Farquhar into a fine diving save. The visitors best effort came via and angled Aiden Cruickshank shot which flew inches past the far post.

The Maroons looked the likelier side to break the deadlock after the break, and seven minutes in, they were awarded a free kick on the edge of the D outside the 18 yard box. Buzzbomb Elphinstone curled an unstoppable effort right into the top corner well beyond the despairing goalie.  The ‘keeper then had to look lively to claw away a Jake Stewart curler five minutes later, before another Elphinstone blockbuster screamed inches past the post.

The impetus remained with the homesters and Jordan Cooper squandered the chance to seal the points in the 81st minute, racing through, only to hammer his shot straight at the goalie. Right away, at the other end Craig Reid pulled off a superb diving save to keep his charge intact. Stewart was denied again by the goalie, then late substitute Matty Tough fired wide when perhaps he should have netted.

KEITH – Reid, Killoh, Lynch, Coull, Robertson, Gill, Elphinstone (Tough), Brownie, Cooper (Ironside), Taylor (McKeown), Stewart (Duncan). Subs unused – Smith, Hanover, Macleod.

Referee – Mr N Clac-Mansfield

Saturday 16th March 2024, KO 3pm
Report by Charlie Simpson