Half-time rollicking inspired Lanark fightback

Lanark United equalise against Forth (Pic by Sarah Peters)

Lanark trailed 1-0 at the interval after Willie McLaren’s strike, the least Forth deserved for their dominance.

“We could easily have been three down at half-time,” John said.

“I told the players to get their fingers out in the second half and we were a lot better and in control.

“I was impressed by Forth. They were much better than when we played them at the start of the season.”

Saturday’s hard-fought derby at Moor Park saw Wanderers take the lead on 26 minutes when McLaren collected on the right before cutting inside to score with a well placed shot.

Cammy Lawson managed to prevent a second goal by McLaren when he cleared his shot off the goal line.

Forth had two clear chances when Taylor Scott’s shot was blocked by keeper Michael Duke before the rebound was fired over the bar by Declan Walker.

United’s only worthwhile first half effort was a free-kick by Kieron McGurk which was well saved by keeper Andrew Finnigan.

The Forth keeper was in action again on 53 minutes when he turned a powerful shot by Bryan Caldwell over the top.

Forth striker Scott then had a howler of a miss when he shot the ball over the bar.

United levelled on 63 minutes when a left wing corner was forced over the line by Paul Ross in a crowded area.

Forth were dealt a blow when star man McLaren was red carded on 80 minutes for talking out of turn to the referee.

After the final whistle, United’s John Renwick and Forth trialist Terry Digham were both red carded after an altercation.

Forth manager Jamie McKenzie said his side should have been out of sight in the first half; but after McLaren’s sending off they could have lost.

“I have told Willie that his sending off was not acceptable,” Jamie said.

“We are still unbeaten in the league this season and could easily have five wins out of five. The rebuilding job has gone well.”

Lanark and Forth are in West Cup action this Saturday.

Brogan expects to make several changes, while McKenzie will be without Craig Gupwell (holiday) but John Watson and John Rennie return to the fold.