The delayed start did nothing to stem the nerves of facing a young Glasgow team
who had scored nine goals against Hillhead in their previous fixture. Despite this
Dumfries started strongly with a battling midfield and a strong, meet the ball first,
attitude from the defence. Opportunities were few, however the Dumfries short
corner drills paid off in the 9th minute when McFarlane drag flicked the ball through
the Glasgow keeper giving them a well deserved one nil lead. ( The hours of practice
and the dents in the skirting boards around the McFarlane household are justified)
The game remained balanced for the next period of the game before the Glasgow
team seemed to suddenly awaken and string together three goals in just five
minutes. Their patience playing around the back line followed by sudden injection
and speed through midfield to attack paid off for them three times before a shell
shocked Dumfries defence stepped up to galvanise and return to their previous
determination. At this point whispers in the crowd spoke of a potential “drubbing”.
The fear of nine goals conceded seemed likely. But the defensive line stood firm.

In the 29th minute Dumfries brought one back with the best move of the game. A
sequence of quick passes, an assist from Stapleton and an accurate finish from
McFarlane made it 2:3. Game on. Dumfries finished the half the stronger team and
went into half time confident of second half outcomes. 

The game resumed with both teams enjoying good periods of possession. Patient
play across the Dumfries back line worked the Glasgow team hard in pursuit but their
tight man to man marking gave few opportunities for incision. The game became
more and more focussed in the midfield with both teams fighting hard for possession
and a dominant grip. 
Few opportunities were presented to either side. 
McFarlane saw an opportunity for his hat-trick and equaliser spin from the end of his
stick at close range....so near yet so far. 
Johnston saw his short corner strike parried away by the Glasgow keeper. 
Davidson cleared skilfully off the line.
Steele showed steel with some fine saves.
Gordon “Zorro” Smith jabbed his blade.
But.... neither side could add to their tally. 

A goalless second half was a true reflection of a well contested and even battle. But
3:2 to Glasgow it remained. 
An all-round good performance and an entertaining watch.
MOM. Max McFarlane. Two fine goals....(shame about the third!)
DOD Scott Marshall, for his own goal.