05/05/07

John Smith's League - Division 1b

Brightons 2 - 1 Denny

'Welcome to Overton Park - Yer Gaun Hame Wi Nowt' is the new slogan as Brightons racked up an 8th consecutive home league win which secured the title on Saturday in front of the biggest crowd this season at Fortress Overton Park.

With the exception of Clarky, coach Alexander had a full squad of 17 to choose from with all the big players available for this crucial fixture. With Denny sitting in mid table and seemingly nothing to play for then some had thought this might have been a stroll for Brightons but that wasn't the case.

Brightons looked slightly nervous at the start of the game and didn't really get their crisp passing game going at all but remained tight at the back and Tony Sime was rarely troubled. The Tons then settled and had a good spell of pressure forcing a series of corners and free kicks. As usual the delivery of Mark Newton and Graham Speirs was first class but Brightons couldn't get a break in front of goal. Neil Porteous did come closest when he saw a header cleared of the line but was penalised for climbing.

Wee Newts then decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck and he picked the ball up 30 yards from goal and beat his man to set up a shooting opportunity with his right foot but instead decided to show how equally good his left peg was. He cut back inside his man and from 25 yards curled an absolute beauty into the postage stamp leaving the keeper rooted to the spot. As Andy Gray would say 'Take a bow son' - 'You just don't stop them' The wee man was mobbed by his ecstatic team mates and looked chuffed to bits that his purchase of a new pair of Puma King mouldies had paid dividends.

Brightons continued to press forward and the front 2 of Davie Martin and Jamie McLean were starting to link up well with the midfield and McLean was unlucky to see his well struck half volley go just over. Nicky Irvine then done well to skin his man on the right but shot high and wide with a cross perhaps the better option. The back 3 of Forbes, Porteous and Scullion remained solid and Denny were restricted to a few long range efforts that Sime dealt with comfortably as the Tons went in 1-0 up at the break.

Again the opening spell was tight but Denny gradually came into the game as they pushed 3 up front and with only a slender 1-0 lead Brightons were far from save. 20 minutes in Denny were awarded a free kick 25 yards out after the striker went down 'Drogba style' after the slightest of touches from Forbes. As Brightons sorted out the defensive wall the same player made a miraculous recovery and thought he had scored when he found the bottom corner from a quick free kick. The referee had signalled to wait on the whistle and Brightons breathed a sigh of relief only for him to then hit a beauty into the opposite top corner that gave Sime no chance.

Denny sensed that Brightons were on the back foot now and had a golden chance to take the lead moments later when the striker connected on the volley 6 yards out from a corner only to hit Scully flush on his big hooter. Who 'nose' what would have happened if that had went in!! Brightons regrouped and Martin saw his net bound shot cleared off the line before McLean hit the post. Barry Stuart then had a glorious chance when Newton's free kick picked him out 6 yards from goal but he headed wide.

Tam McQue 'Nae Sair Taes this week' was then introduced on the right and what an impact 'Raoul' was to make with his direct style of play giving the Denny defence all sorts of problems. Twice he got in behind his man to put in good crosses but no Brightons player was there to finish. Speirs then made a great run down the left and his excellent cross picked out McQue at the back post who's controlled brilliantly and then hit, or miss hit depending on who you ask, a shot that seemed to take an age before it floated into the top corner. The place erupted and no one could catch McQue as he made a mad dash towards the touchline and just before he could shout 'I want a pay rise gaffer' he stumbled and done a Klinsmann dive right in front of the fans. The relief was there for all to see as half the touchline had come on to celebrate with the players but there was still around 10 minutes remaining on the clock.

The fresh legs of Kieran Sweeney and James Wood were brought on and Sweeney made 2 great runs from box to box to take the pressure off the Brightons back line. Scullion to another blow to face as he bravely blocked an effort and Brightons had to deal with a few late corners that Denny pushed every player including the goalkeeper up for as they were certainly intent on spoiling the party but the Brightons rearguard stood firm and when Sweeney forced a late corner for Brightons Speirs and Newton kept the ball in the corner to run down the clock and see out the game. Then the party really began as the players and fans celebrated big style.

Thump Thump!!

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Porteous, Newton, N Irvine (McQue), Martin (Sweeney), McLean (Wood), Brogan & Speirs

Subs not used: Lines, Morris

MoM - Mark Newton

The club would like to thank all the fans for their support on sat and throughout the season and also The Rumford Arms for the after match hospitality.



28/04/07

Robert Whyte Memorial Trophy Group Stages

Millbank 2 - Brightons 2

Brightons rested several key players and looked shaky early on and took the lead against the run of play when Kieran Sweeney latched onto to a fine Tam McQue through ball and calmly slotted into the bottom corner.

A minute before half time Sweeney then turned sinner when he lost control of the ball on the edge of the box and in a desperate attempt to recover he pulled down the home player to concede a penalty. Debutant keeper Martin Hub bocks could do nothing to stop a well taken spot kick.

Brightons improved slightly after the break and went in front when Mark Newton was brought down by the home keeper and with regular penalty taker James Wood back then Newton had to be content to watch Wood dispatch the kick into the bottom corner with consummate ease.

That should have given Brightons the platform to go on and win the game but they sat back and had Hubbocks in goal to thank for maintaining the lead. The home team never gave up though and snatched a deserved equaliser right on time as poor defending from Brightons allowed the striker to nod back a deep cross into the path of his unmarked strike partner for the simplest of tap ins.

Team: Hubbocks, Didcock, Forbes, Brogan, Stevenson, Newton, N Irvine, Lines (Scullion), Wood, Sweeney (Porteous) & McQue (Alexander)

Subs not used: Sime

MoM - Martin Hubbocks



25/04/07

Cinema Cup Round 2

Colville Park 3 Brightons 0

Brightons were up against the current Premier League leaders in this game and suffered an early double blow when Neil Porteous and Tam McQue both went off injured in the first 10 minutes. To make matters worse they then fell behind when Gordon Forbes deflected a cross past Tony Sime into his own net. Brightons rallied and the home keeper pulled off a brilliant save from a Barry Stuart shot and Nicky Irvine headed a Forbes cross inches wide.

Stuart made 2 surging runs after the break but on each occasion the home keeper was up to the task and made fine saves to prevent Brightons from grabbing an equaliser.

The home team picked up the pace and scored a further 2 goals in the last 10 minutes.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart (Alexander), Porteous (N Irvine), Brogan, McQue (S Irvine), Martin, Lines, Sweeney & Speirs

Subs not used:

MoM - Barry Stuart



23/04/07

Robert Whyte Memorial Trophy - Group Stages

Brightons 0 - 1 Eastfield United

After reaching last years final Brightons have made a poor start to this years competition with a defeat and a draw in their opening 2 games.

A lack lustre display last Monday night led to a 1-0 defeat against Eastfield United in a poor game with very little goal mouth action. The visitors snatched victory with 20 minutes to go when a quick move down the left got in behind the Brightons defence and although Tony Sime got a hand to the pull back the striker was on hand to score from close range.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Brogan, Porteous, Newton (Didcock), N Irvine, McQue (Martin), McLean, Sweeney & Stevenson (Lines)

Subs not used: Wood, S Irvine

MoM - John Scullion



21/04/07

M&M Cup Round 2

Brightons 1 - 1 Arthurlie United 1 (AET 3-5 on pens)

For the 2nd consecutive season Brightons outplayed their Premier Division opponents Arthurlie in the M&M Cup only to be knocked out yet again by penalties.

There were 2 changes to the side that had beat Stenhouse in midweek with Davie Lines starting up front for the absent Jamie McLean and Graham Speirs getting the nod on the left of midfield. It was a fairly tight opening spell with both defences on top and not many clear cut chances created by either side although Arthurlie looked the brighter side early on.

The game exploded into life after 25 minutes as the striker ran in on goal to a high through ball, Neil Porteous stretched up and got a foot to it at the same time catching the forward on the head. The referee quite correctly awarded an indirect free kick for dangerous play which the Arthurlie players and management were none to pleased about and a fair bit of pushing and shoving ensued before order was restored. With the Brightons players all lined up on the goal line the ball was played square and the resulting shot flew high into the roof of the net.

Brightons gradually got a foothold in the game and started to get the ball down and play. A quick move down the left from Speirs and Davie Martin set up Mark Newton but he shot wide from 12 yards. Brightons then forced a series of corners and thought they were level when Porteous headed home but the goal was chalked off for climbing by the big monkey and Brightons went in 1 down at the break.

A much better start from the Tons in the 2nd half and they were rewarded early on when Newton's fine pass released Speirs down the left channel and he steadied himself before beating the keeper at the near post from 18 yards. Brightons were well up for it now and the back 3 of Scullion, Porteous and Forbes were in excellent form meaning Tony Sime had very little to do. The Tons had Arthurlie pinned back for long spells but couldn't find a way past the visitors equally solid defence. Newton did curl a 25 yard free kick into the top corner but hadn't noticed it was indirect before Lines created an opportunity for himself when he shrugged off 2 defenders only to see the keeper make a fine block with his feet. The same player then whipped a great ball right across the face of goal but there were no takers.

As the visitors tired it created a bit more time and space for Brightons who dominated possession but just lack that killer touch in the final third and the game went to extra time. The pattern continued as Brightons superior fitness shone through and they controlled extra time with Tam McQue and Lyall Didcock both making a positive impact but Brightons had no luck in front of goal which was summed up when a late chance from James Wood came back off the post before being cleared.

So it was down to penalties and Sime in the Brightons goal got a hand to the first 2 Arthurlie penalties but couldn't stop them from crossing the line. Stuart, McQue and Wood all converted before Speirs was the unfortunate player to see his penalty saved by the keeper and with Arthurlie scoring all 5 of their kicks they sneaked through again.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Porteous, Newton (McQue), N Irvine, Martin (Didcock), Lines (Wood), Sweeney & Speirs

Subs not used: Brogan, Stevenson

MoM – John Scullion



18/04/07

John Smith's League - Division 1b

Brightons 5 - 1 Stenhouse Athletic

Brightons took a giant step towards the league title as they simple outclassed Stenhouse with an excellent team performance which also wiped out their opponents slim hopes of claiming the title. 7 home league games, 7 wins, scored 31 conceded 5, definitely championship winning form!!

Other than the India based Lee 'Pakora' Clark, the suspended Tam McQue and the ill Jason Brogan coach Alexander had a full squad of 16 to chose from meaning he had to make the difficult decision of dropping himself. Veteran striker James Wood was struggling with oldmanitus (a sore calf) so started on the bench and as Clarky was busy making curries in India it was a new front 2 that wouldn't have looked out of place at an under 11's game of McLean and Sweeney which was to prove a lethal combination which Stenhouse couldn't cope with.

Brightons pressed from the start and it wasn't long before Mark Newton and Davie Martin got a grip of the midfield with Barry Stuart doing a great job protecting the back 3. The first chance fell to Sweeney on 10 minutes as he was inches away from McLean's excellent cross from the left channel. Brightons were not to be denied and took the lead 5 minutes later, Martin played in McLean down the left and he beat the keeper to the ball only to be sent tumbling, spot kick number 1. With regular taker Woody on the bench, up stepped Newton who himself takes a fine PK and he made no mistake finding the top left corner. Brightons kept up the pressure and came close to adding to the score line from a series of corners before McLean latched on to a deft flick from strike partner Sweeney and as he raced in on goal he was chopped down from behind, spot kick number 2. Again Newton stepped up and this time put it in off the post with another expert strike.

McLean then had a goal disallowed for a narrow offside decision and Stuart had a great chance to kill the game off completely 5 minutes later when he made another of his trade mark runs from midfield leaving 3 players in his wake only to be denied by a fine save from the Stenhouse keeper, then saw his lob from the rebound go just over. Brightons then switched off and the visitors had a good 10 minute spell just before the break and forced a bit of pressure. Forbes had to be on hand to make a clearance from 2 yards after a cross had looped over Sime but could do nothing moments later when a slack clearance from Stevenson allowed the striker to get in on goal and his shot bounced up right in front of Sime who got a hand to it but it crossed the line before Sime or Forbes could get back to make a clearance.

Graham Speirs replaced Stevenson for the second half and Brightons comfortably dealt with a few early corners from Stenhouse who got no joy whatsoever from the rock solid back 3 of Forbes, Porteous and Scullion. The Tons then picked up the pace again looking for another goal to kill off the game and that came 10 minutes in when Sweeney latched on to a delightful through ball from Martin and the ball sat up nicely for him to lash a left foot screamer into the top corner. Brightons were now in total control and yet again McLean was bundled to the deck in the area as he was first to a loose ball, spot kick number 3. An easy decision for the referee as it was another stone waller but a Stenhouse defender didn't think so and he was shown a straight red for foul and abusive language towards the ref. Guess what? Yes up stepped Newton who this time went straight down the middle to complete a hat trick of pens and take his seasons scoring tally to double figures from only 7 first team starts.

Brightons were now in total control and playing some good stuff and Stenhouse were reduced to 9 men after a cynical late tackle on Nicky Irvine resulted in another straight red card. McLean then pounced on a short pass back and rifled in number 5 for a well deserved goal to cap his excellent display leading the line. Indeed McLean was unlucky not to net again as the keeper got a finger tip to send his shot crashing onto the bar. Lines and Scott Irvine were given a run out as Brightons saw out the game with comfortable ease and Martin almost added to the score line but scraped the post with a late free kick.

Some fine individual performances from McLean, Sweeney, Newton, Martin and Stuart to compliment a solid team performance and with the news that closest rivals Eastfield could only draw their final league game means Brightons require 1 win from their final 2 league games to clinch the title. The first of which has been pencilled in for Saturday 5th May at home to Denny, a game not to be missed!!

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Porteous, Newton (Lines), N Irvine (S Irvine), Martin, McLean, Sweeney & Stevenson (Speirs)

Subs not used: Wood, Didcock

MoM - Jamie McLean



31/03/07

John Smith's League - Division 1b

Brightons 4 - 0 Rannoch

Reporter - Lee Clark

Brightons went top of Division 1b, following this hard fought victory over a Rannoch side that has claimed some excellent scalps this term. Gaffer Alexander was forced to make changes, which included a place on the bench for himself as Brightons only had 13 players to choose from. Neil Porteous returned to the side at the back, with Jason Brogan moving into midfield and there was also a start for Skunk, following his accomplished display as a second half sub last week.
Little football was played, on what would prove to be a very uneven pitch, in the opening stages and indeed neither keeper was troubled although both teams did try to get down the flanks and Sweeney and Irvine were full of running in the opening stages although the final balls could have been better.

The game exploded (quite literally) into life on 25 minutes when Bobo nearly decapitated Gordy Forbes when they both went up for a routine header. Both were left with nasty gashes to the head which resulted in Gaffer Alexander making his long awaited comeback as he replaced Forbes whilst, 'Hard as nails' Bobo showed Gordy what a real man is and soldiered on. To be fair to Gordy that raving lunatic doesn't have much more than air between his ears so I doubt he even felt it.

The enforced re-shuffle saw Alexander push up front with Clarky dropping into midfield and the impact was instant as Brightons took the lead only minutes later. Cheers Gordy ya big Fairy!!! Clark cleverly turned his man in the middle, after good initial play from Bobo and Skunk, and found Stuart in space. His first time pass to Sweeney saw the young Irish man in acres of space and his superb cross to the back post found Irvine who blasted high into the net at the second attempt. Almost immediately it was two nil as Clark picked up the ball 40 yards out, drifted past two defenders before calmly slotting into the bottom corner.

Brightons were now well on top with Jason Brogan and Barry Stuart winning everything in the middle and both wide men Sweeney and Irvine running riot and it was the latters pass that released Wood who hesitated in the box allowing the defender to clear. Wood was unlucky again only a minute later when Stuart found him in space, his resultant shot just clipping the top of the cross bar. Brightons were not to be denied however and all but killed the match off as a contest 3 minutes before half time. Another break up the flanks saw Sweeney's pass helped on by Wood to Alexander who in turn found Clark in space at the edge of the box. With his back to goal Clarky Clark swivelled and hit the ball first time on the half volley into the bottom corner to make the score 3 nil.

The second half kicked off with Brightons again on top. Rannoch were certainly not giving up however and Sime had to look lively as a forward found space in the box, the keeper dealing with the resultant shot comfortably enough. Brightons looked for another goal to kill the match off and almost got it as Clark saw his 25 yarder whistle inches wide.
Clark was again unlucky only two minutes later when Stuart released him into the box, only to see his ferocious left foot strike come back off the bar.

Next was Stuart who saw his powder puff strike held after Clark's cut back. Brightons were now playing some excellent stuff and Gaffer Alexander was twice unlucky, first with a header following a Sweeney cross and then with a good strike from 25 yards that went just wide. Wood was next up but was again denied by the away keeper as he first of all tried a cheeky back header and then hit a rasping 20 yard shot both times seeing the goalie make excellent saves. The 4th goal finally arrived with 10 minutes to go and it was Irvine who got it, capping off a superb Man of the match display. Sweeney again found space on the left and his inch perfect cross saw Wee Boy Band volley home at the back post. It was an excellent days work from the 'Tons against a side that never stopped battling. Brightons now have just 3 league games to go and need to win all 3 to take the title and gain promotion into the Premier League.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes (Alexander), Stuart, Porteous, Brogan, N Irvine, Sweeney, Wood, Clark & Stevenson

Sub not used: Martin

MoM - Nicky Irvine

Anton Rogan Award - Bobo......again........mentalist!!!!



24/03/07

John Smith League Div ision 1b

St Peters 1 - 8 Brightons AFC

Reporter - Lee Clark

Brightons stretched their winning streak to six games, their fifth in a row on the road, in a match played in farcical circumstances, which saw the home side playing with just seven men at one stage. With only five games to go in the league title race, this was a game that Brightons had to win and they didn't disappoint. Gaffer Alexander made a couple of changes to the side that defeated Eastfield two weeks ago, with Wood and Sweeney replacing the absent McLean and Speirs. There was a place on the bench for that big baw bag Bobo, who had decided to grace us with his presence this week.

Brightons made the early running but almost went behind after goalkeeper Sime tried to cut a forwards heid aff, with a Jet Li style lunge.

Thankfully for the Tons the penalty slipped wide and, almost immediately, they themselves were awarded a penalty when Irvine was crudely challenged in the box, following Brogan's back post header, which was cleared off the line. Wood made no mistake from the spot and Brightons were on their way.

Brightons, and Lee Clark in particular, should have ended the game as a contest within the next ten minutes. Twice he was sent clear, only to see the keeper make two excellent saves and then, after finding himself in acres of space, did his best Kenny Miller impression and shot wide when it seemed easier to score. Not to be put off by this, Clark tried his luck again with a scorching 25 yard effort that grazed the bar however the striker was not to be denied for long after he finally got a goal, scrambling the ball home, following some superb work down the left by Sweeney. It was one way traffic now, however the next goal, when it arrived, came at the other end. A good headed clearance by Scullion was punted back into the box by a St Peters midfielder and, aided by the following wind, the ball flew into the top corner giving Sime no chance.

Not to be deterred by this set back, Brightons scored two goals in quick succession just before half time. First, Wood tapped home after Sweeney had skinned three defenders, and then Clark shot into the top corner after an Irvine cross was only partially cleared, following a great effort from Stuart that had come back off a post. The half ended with the score 4-1 and St Peters down to ten men following an injury.

The second half started in farcical circumstances, as St Peters re-emerged with only 8 players following another injury and someone else away in the huff. It killed the match completely and the second half was little more than a training exercise for Brightons who eventually added 4 more goals after McQue and Irvine had both gone close with long range efforts. First up was Lines who drove home from 12 yards, following a Wood flick-on from a Sweeney throw in. Barry Stuart then got in on the act, tapping home from a superb in-swinging Sweeney cross.

Clark made it seven after he rounded the keeper following a McQue through-ball and Wood was on hand to complete the scoring from close range after Clark saw his 20 yard effort come back off the post. There was still time for some handbags before the end. Big Bobo can thank his lucky stars that Clarky was in a good mood, otherwise the front man would have kicked his smelly heid in. Brightons have now lost only one of their last fourteen games and continue with league duty this week at home to Rannoch.

Team: Sime, Scullion (Porteous), Forbes (Stevenson), Stuart (Wilson), Brogan, Lines, N Irvine, McQue, Wood, Clark & Sweeney

Sub not used:

Man of the Match - James Wood

Anton Rogan Award - Any of the St Peters mob. Should be banned from the league for p1sh like that!



10/03/07

John Smith League Division 1b

Eastfield United 1 - 2 Brightons

Brightons produced a superb team performance and came away with a well deserved 3 points against title rivals Eastfield on Saturday which could prove crucial come the end of the season. Brightons had the wind at their backs in the first half on a superb playing surface but it was the home team who started the brightest and made all the running in the 10 opening minutes without creating any clear cut chances.

Brightons then took control and had the home team pinned in their own half for long spells. Barry Stuart came close with 2 headers from the set piece delivery of Graham Speirs and Mark Newton and the home keeper produced a stunning one handed save from a Jamie McLean snap shot. Speirs, Newton and Lee Clark all had chances from just outside the box but none hit the target. A good shout for a penalty was also turned down when the home defender clearly blocked another effort with his arm. For all their pressure Brightons failed to score and the teams went in level at the break.

Eastfield were expecting to dominate after the break but they got no joy whatsoever from a rock solid back 3 of Forbes, Brogan and Scullion and it was Brightons who played the better football into the wind. Newton played a quick free kick to Forbes and he exchanged passes with Speirs on the left flank before crossing into the box where McQue controlled instantly and clipped a fine finish into the bottom left corner.

The home team pressed forward in search of an equaliser but Tony Sime was in fine form as he tipped a free kick onto the bar then did well to deal with a whipped in swinging corner from right under his bar. At the other end Clark came close to making it 2 when he pounced on a lose ball and hit a ferocious first time shot that went inches wide with the keeper rooted to the spot. The Brightons rearguard was breached however when Newton lost possession and the wide player got in behind Speirs and Forbes on the left and his cut back into a crowded box was stabbed home for an equaliser.

Brightons survived a scare when an overhead kick went just wide as Eastfield had their best spell of the game. Brightons upped the tempo again and the home team were lucky not to be reduced to 10 men after a cynical lunge on Nicky Irvine, who was having an influential game on the right wing, only resulted in a yellow. Newton then fed a quick pass up to McLean on the left flank and his first pass to McQue was blocked but he found him at the second attempt and McQue sent a delightful chip over the home keeper into the net. Brightons looked to kill the game and another quick break released Clark on the left and as he skipped past the advancing keeper McLean was taken out off the ball, Clark played on but from a tight angle could only find the side netting. The ref missed the challenge on McLean and again the home team were lucky to still have 11 men on the park. Another swift attack released McQue and he raced clear for a one on one with the keeper who saved his first effort sending him wide of the goal and he sent the rebound just wide.

Eastfield pushed 3 up front for the last 10 minutes in an attempt to salvage a point but with Stuart doing a great job protecting the back 3 the home team were frustrated and Brightons held firm. Indeed Brightons had the last chance of the game when sub James Wood broke clear but saw his clever chip come back off the bar.

Brightons have no game this Saturday.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Brogan, Newton, N Irvine, McQue (Sweeney), McLean (Lines), Clark (Wood) & Speirs

Sub not used:

MoM: Tam McQue



3/03/07

Cinema Cup Round 1

St Peters 1 - 2 Brightons

Brightons made hard work of this Cup tie through in not-so-sunny Paisley against, the League's bottom club, St Peters. Gaffer Alexander made some changes from last weeks win, with Wood starting in attack and Tam McQue back in the team, after a month's absence, a time which Tambo has called 'a period of reflection'. That's one way of putting it I suppose Tam! St Peters have proved to be no pushovers this season and despite their league position there was no doubt the Ton's would face a very testing afternoon, on yet another questionable pitch. Before the match Gaffer Alexander made a very special presentation to McFly's number 1 fan, Kieran Sweeney. The youngster looked over joyed with his new (2005) McFly Annual.

Brightons kicked off down the slope and with the wind at their backs and indeed, most of the first period was played in the St Peters half of the field, although the Brightons lads made hard work of things, with little football being played and very little opportunities to speak of in the opening stages. Scullion and Irvine were getting some joy down the right, with Irvine the subject of some cynical fouls from the St Peters left back.

The deliveries into the box were poor however and it took 20 minutes for Brightons to threaten when Stuart shot wide from 20 yards from a Clark lay off, following a good ball in from Scullion. Next up was Wood, who pulled an excellent save from the home keeper after he was put through from Stuart. The opening goal was merely delayed however and it was Wood who grabbed it after Clark showed the greedy swine, what being a team mate is actually about and unselfishly cut the ball back for an easy tap-in, after he had been released by Stuart. Brightons looked to kill the game off and should have doubled their advantage but, Stuart steered the ball wide after Scullion picked him out from a free kick on the right. Sweeney also missed a sitter at the back post when he shot wide from about 3 yards, obviously he was thinking about reading his annual in bed that night!!

Unbelievably, St Peters got back into the game, in what was their first attack of the match.

A hopeful ball forward should have saw Porteous clear his lines with ease, but the big man opted to try and moonwalk first, allowing the home forward to nip in and slot home from 8 yards. The half ended with Brightons still on top but without testing the home keeper.

After some 'hairdryer' treatment, from Coach Alexander, at the interval Brightons had a more determined look about them. Whilst St Peters did use the following wind to their advantage, it was Brightons that looked more likely to score, but despite having more of the ball, they lacked that cutting edge in the final third. The turning point came 15 minutes into the second half when a home defender was sent off, after kicking out at McQue, following the latter's strong challenge, for which he himself was cautioned. It was McQue's last involvement as both himself and Sweeney were given the old Captain Hook and were replaced by Newton and Speirs, who was to make an instant impact. Following a free kick into the box, which St Peters only half cleared, Speirs turned the ball into the empty net after Wood had bravely challenged both the goalkeeper and a defender. To be fair to the home side there was a definite shout for off-side, although there could be no question that Brightons deserved their lead. Brightons were well on top now and using the extra man to their advantage should have killed the game off. Clark had a couple of good chances inside the box from corners however, both were well blocked from the St Peters defence.

St Peters did continue to press in the final stages and Sime had to be alert on a couple of occasions, however Brightons held on to reach the next round.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart (Lines), Porteous, Clark, N Irvine, McQue (Newton), Wood, Brogan & Sweeney (Speirs)

Sub not used: McLean

Whyteside MoM: Tony Sime

Anton Rogan Award: Big Bobo......what were you up tae sir!



24/02/07

John Smith's Division 1b

Laurieston Villa 0 - 6 Brightons AFC

Brightons ran out comfortable winners on, what would prove to be a very wet and muddy, derby day fixture at Laurieston. On a barely playable pitch the Laurieston lads were looking for revenge, after a 5-1 defeat in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Gaffer Alexander, again, made changes to the Brighton’s starting XI with Barry Stuart and Mark Newton starting in midfield, and Clark and Martin moving up-front, replacing the absent McLean, and James Wood, who was suffering from Old Age.

The game kicked off with Brightons on top from the start, with both Irvine and Sweeney making good runs down the flanks. Indeed the game was only a few minutes old when Brightons took the lead. A driven free-kick from Newton was turned into the net by Jason Brogan, despite the best efforts of the home keeper. Brightons looked like killing the game off in the first ten minutes, as Laurieston struggled to cope with the strong running of Stuart and Newton in midfield, and it was the formers run and cross into the box that set up Clark but he just failed to connect. A minute later Clark was in again following a long kick from keeper Sime, his resulting shot however was tame and trickled wide, when Stuart was very possibly better placed to score. The chances of Clarky actually passing in those positions are slim to none however, which in all fairness Baz should have known by now and just saved his energy. Next up was Newton who saw his 20 yard free kick brilliantly saved by the home keeper after Irvine had been fouled. The second goal was merely delayed however and, after good work from Stuart and Forbes on the left, Clark’s lay off was volleyed into the top corner by Sweeney. The game was finished as a contest with barely half an hour gone after a howler from the home goalkeeper as he let the simplest of back-passes go under his foot and trickle into the empty net. The half ended with Laurieston coming into the game, however the Brightons defence, which has been rock solid all season, stood firm and the half ended 3-nil.

Following a, strangely, tame team talk from gaffer Alexander at the break Brightons were on the attack again from the off, on a pitch that was now in a shocking state. Both sets of players struggled to keep their feet, meaning little football was played in the opening stages of the half, however as time wore on, Brightons started to knock the ball about and after some excellent link up play involving Clark, Wood (who had replaced Martin) and Newton, Sweeney’s strong run into the box saw him slot home Brighton’s fourth. It was attack after attack from The ‘Tons, and Wood’s cut back, after he skinned his marker was just cut out as Newton prepared to pull the trigger, the resultant corner, headed over by Barry Stuart. Clark got his name on the score sheet; moments later, after some indecision in the home box saw him coolly finish from a Speirs free kick. The best move of the match should have saw Clark add to his tally, however he shot wide, following excellent link up play from Wood and Stuart. Credit to the Laurieston boys, they never gave up and but for Sime in goal and some excellent defensive work they could have pulled a couple of goals back. The last of the scoring, when it did come, inevitably fell to Brightons and after a superb pass from Stuart, Mark Newton had time to pick his spot and add a sixth.

Team: Sime, Scullion, Forbes (Speirs), Stuart, Porteous, Clark, Newton, Martin (Wood), N Irvine (McQue), Brogan & Sweeney

Whyteside Man of the Match: Jason Brogan

Anton Rogan Award: Ingy from The Villa, no explanation required!



17/2/07

M&M Cup Round 1

Scotia Athletic 1 - 2 Brightons AFC (aet)

After a rare league outing last week, Brightons returned to Cup duty, playing against a Scotia side boasting an impressive league record this term. Indeed, it had been 4 seasons since Scotia have tasted defeat at home so this was not a game The Mighty 'Tons could afford to take lightly. Gaffer Alexander made two changes from last weeks drubbing of East Kilbride, with Neil Porteous and Kieran Sweeny replacing Barry Stewart and the absent Graham Speirs. After impressive performances in recent weeks, Jason Brogan kept his place in the side, this time moving into the centre of midfield and there was a place on the bench for, new recruit, Lyall Didcock (aye that is his real name before you ask)

The game kicked off at a frantic pace with both sides failing to play any kind of football. The Scotia lads set the tone early on with a few rash challenges, although with loonies like Bobo in the team, Brightons have never been ones to shy away from a battle. Scotia started the brighter of the two sides, and using a long throw to their advantage, rained balls into the box. Indeed they had the ball in the net after only 8 minutes only to be denied by the ref's whistle, who, rightly, spotted a foul on keeper Sime. Scotia were on top at this stage and only the width of the bar saved The 'Tons from going behind after Sime elected to punch clear yet another punt into the box. The Scotia forward lobbed the ball goal wards only for it to come back off the bar and into Sime's arms. Brightons struggled to get any kind of grasp on the game in the first half, and whilst Sweeny and Forbes did get some joy on the left, the final balls into the box were poor to say the least. It took fully half an hour for Brightons to trouble the home keeper with Clark shooting straight at him after some excellent link up play involving McLean and Wood. This followed with a similar effort from Martin and then Brogan did his best Anton Rogan impression, shooting high and wide after a Wood lay-off.

Half Time 0 - 0

After a rollicking from Coach Alexander during the interval, Brightons started brighter in the second half, however they went a goal down after only 3 minutes. With Gordon Forbes out of position, following a slack pass from Martin, Scotia broke quickly down the right. The resulting cross was turned into the net despite the best efforts of Scullion and Sime. Coach Alexander decided a change was needed and handed a debut to new man Didcock. Club Captain, Barry Stewart. was also introduced to the proceedings with Irvine and Wood making way. Mark Newton was next to come on, only five minutes later, replacing Martin and the impact was instant. Newton and Stewart were full of running and it was the formers pass after he linked well with Clark, eventually ending in Sweeny firing just over. Sweeny had another chance a few minutes later when the keeper brilliantly tipped over after his initial shot had been charged down by a defender. It was all Brightons now and it should have been all square when Clark found space on the left after some good work from McLean and Newton. His cut back was a poor one though and with Baez Stewart poised at the back post, it was a certain goal. Even he couldn't have missed from there. The equaliser was merely delayed and after some good work from Didcock down the right Newton's drive from the edge of the area was turned into the net by Clark after the keeper somehow got a hand to the initial shot. The home side were now hanging on and Sweeny was crudely chopped down as he broke up field, the ref rightly booking the Scotia defender for his trouble.

Full Time 1 - 1

Extra time continued just as the first 90 was played, with Brightons on top without really creating anything of note. The defence remained rock solid, as it had for the full match and Newton and Didcock continued to impress in midfield. Scotia had the best chances to snatch victory, after Sime did his best Scully impression and picked up a Bobo back-pass, the homesters making a James Blunt of the resultant free-kick however. With only 5 minutes to go Scotia should have won the game after a long throw found its way to a forward, un-marked at the back post, thankfully for the Tons he completely missed his kick. With penalties looming Brightons kept pressing a finally got their reward 2 minutes from time. A break up field found McLean in space, he shrugged off two defender before firing low to the keepers right. Again, he did brilliantly to get a hand to the shot, however Clark was there to pounce on the rebound and fire home from a tight angle. Brightons held on to take victory and now face Rannoch or Arthurlie in the last 16.

The lads are away from home this Saturday but its a short trip to Laurieston to face the Villa. Forget The Old Firm, forget Barca-Real, this is the real deal muthafvcka's, see you all there!!

Team :- Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Brogan, Porteous, Clark, Irvine (Didcock), Martin (Newton), Wood (Stuart), McLean & Sweeney

Subs not used:- Lines

Whyteside man of the match – Lee Clark



10/02/07

John Smith's Division 1b

Brightons 10 East Kilbride 0

Brightons bounced back from last weeks Scottish Cup exit with an emphatic league victory against a poor East Kilbride outfit.

Brightons decided to kick with the strong wind at their backs and the tone for this game was set as early as the first minute when Nicky Irvine raced down the right and crossed for Lee Clark to slide the ball in at the back post. The visiting keeper then gifted the second when he picked up a pass back, then realising his error, dropped the ball at the feet of James Wood who stroked home. Jamie McLean then got in on the act when he beat the keeper to the ball to fire in the third and Nicky Irvine shrugged off a defender to slam in number 4.

Brightons were totally dominant with Davie 'Pomphrey' Martin and Barry Stuart pulling the strings in midfield and they showed the visitors no mercy when McLean hit a beauty into the top corner from Graham Speirs fine cut back. Martin capped his majestic display with a fine individual goal when raced clear from his own half and beat 2 defenders before side footing into the bottom corner. Clark grabbed no 7 just before the break when he beat the offside trap and held off a defender before smashing another beauty into the top corner. This led to a shout from the visitors sideline of 'He's cheating ref, he's clearly showing off!!

There was some relief on the visitors goal after the break as the park cut up and Brightons played against the strong wind and Tony Sime ensured he got his clean sheet with a fine stop low down to his right.

Brightons gradually took control again and McLean completed his hat trick with a low drive from 12 yards. Kieran Sweeney came of the bench to slide in number 9 after McLean turned provider with a neat through ball and the scoring was complete in the dying minutes after another silky run from Martin who then played in Wood to side foot home.

Brightons return to cup duty on Saturday visiting Scotia Athletic in the M&M cup.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart (Lines), Brogan, Clark, N Irvine, Martin, Wood, McLean and Speirs (Sweeney)

Subs not used - Porteous

Whyteside man of the match - Davie Martin



03/02/07

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup – 5th Round

Brightons 1 Uphall Station 2

A poor opening 20 minutes was to prove Brightons downfall and end both their Scottish Cup run and 100% home record in the process.

Brightons did have the first chance from a corner in the first minute but Barry Stuart headed just over from Nicky Irvine's delivery. Brightons then went into their shell and stood off their opponents allowing them time and space to dictate the game and score 2 early goals. The visiting forward was allowed to control and turn on the left flank and he cut inside and hit a shot that deceived Tony Sime. It was 2 minutes later after a free kick was conceded on the left which was curled into the top corner leaving Sime with no chance. The cause wasn't helped either when centre half Neil Porteous had to go off with a nasty cut to the eye.

That gave Brightons a wake up call and they gradually got a foothold in the game, young Jason Brogan replaced Porteous and Davie Martin came on in midfield. He made an immediate impact with his accurate passing and should have had a penalty after he was brought down in the box but instead an indirect free kick was awarded which Lee Clark hit against the wall. Gordon Forbes then crossed for Barry Stuart at the back post who seemed to be held back but the ref waved play on. James Wood and Jamie McLean both had half chances but neither could hit the target as Brightons pressed forward and just before the break Wood squared for Clark but his shot from 8 yards was well saved by the keeper.

Brightons came out fired up after the interval and pulled a goal back when Clark latched onto a loose ball on the edge of the box and smashed a left foot screamer into the top corner. It was all Brightons now and the visitors were rattled, Stuart was cynically brought down from the back as he surged towards goal but no card was shown and the same player then elbowed Graham Speirs off the ball which was also missed by the ref. Brightons thought they were level when Wood squared for McLean to score at the back post but it was ruled out for offside.

Sime then saved well from a quick free kick and also turned a deflection off Stuart round the post in the visitors only attacks of the second period.

Brightons made one final push with Wood having a shot blocked, Martin beating the offside trap only to see his shot saved by the keeper and Brogan seeing his header cleared off the line. For all the pressure Brightons couldn't find a deserved equaliser.

Brightons return to league duty on Saturday hosting East Kilbride at Overton Park.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Porteous (Brogan), Lines (Martin), N Irvine, McLean, Wood, Clark and Speirs (Sweeney)

Subs not used - Newton, McQue

Whyteside man of the match – Lee Clark



27/01/07

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup – 4th Round Replay

Brightons 5 Orchard Park Mount 1

Brightons made no mistake in this replay and ran out convincing winners, maintaining their 100% home record in the process.

Brightons started well and looked to have taken the lead early on but Graham Speirs had his effort harshly disallowed for showing his studs. They did however score from their first corner, Tam McQue drilled the cross to the front post and Lee Clark was on hand to flick the ball in from close range. Brightons continued to press and McQue headed wide from a Speirs free kick with the goal at his mercy. The same player then blasted over from close range after a fine Nicky Irvine pass.

A great through ball from Gordon Forbes sent James Wood in but the veteran striker shot from a tight angle with Clark better positioned for a pull back. Barry Stuart doubled the lead on 20 minutes when he picked up a loose ball in midfield and beat 2 men before showing great composure to side foot into the bottom corner from 18 yards.

The visitors then found their feet and gradually came into the game but found the Brightons back 3 and Tony Sime in excellent form and difficult to break down. They got a lifeline though and pulled one back just before the break with a soft penalty award after Neil Porteous cleanly won a tackle but the referee bizarrely pointed to the spot instead of giving a corner.

The visitors pushed forward looking for an early equaliser at the restart but with Sime's handling exceptional throughout they rarely threatened and it was Brightons who looked the more dangerous in the final third. Irvine continued his good shift down the right flank and he sent in a deep cross to Speirs at the back post who played a 1-2 with a home defender before squaring for Clark to score from 6 yards. David Lines came off the bench to make it 4 when he stabbed home from close range after the keeper had fumbled a Speirs corner.

A fine display was complete right on time when Speirs sent Forbes clear on the overlap down the left and he played in Clark who unselfishly crossed to the back post for strike partner Wood to volley in for a birthday goal.

Brightons now face Uphall Station in round 5 this Saturday with a 2.00pm kick off at Overton Park.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart (Meikle), Porteous, Speirs, N Irvine, McQue (Lines), Wood, Clark and Sweeney (Newton)

Subs not used - McLean

Whyteside man of the match – Tony Sime



06/01/07

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup – 4th Round

Orchard Park Mount 4 Brightons 4

Brightons got of to an absolute flyer in this game and should really have wrapped things up at the break but a spirited fight back from the home team takes the game to a replay.

Centre half Neil Porteous gave Brightons a dream start inside 5 minutes when he broke from his own half and chipped past the home team’s high defensive line before curling a beauty past the advancing keeper from 25 yards into the top corner. The home team struggled to get out of their own half and the lead was doubled after Lee Clark beat his man on the left flank and his cross was turned in to his own net by a defender. James Wood then headed past from a pin point Gordon Forbes cross and saw another header from a Barry Stuart flick go just past.

The home team gradually came into the game and a quick passing move caught Brightons out and the striker got room in the box to stab past Tony Sime. Brightons restored their 2 goal cushion when the keeper totally misjudged a free kick from Graham Speirs and saw it sail over his head into the empty net. Brightons had the home team pinned back and Wood, Clark and Nicky Irvine all came close but couldn’t add to the lead.

A solid opening to the 2nd half was required but Brightons were shell shocked as the home team scored 3 goals, all from set pieces, inside 5 minutes. John Scullion conceded a penalty, then a corner was headed home and a free kick from 20 yards all left Sime in goal with no chance. To their credit Brightons showed great character and hit back almost immediately. Scullion broke down the right flank and played a neat one two with Wood before hitting a fine shot that the keeper tipped onto the post but Tam McQue followed up and showed great technique to hit the rebound into the net through a ruck of players.

Davie Martin and Jamie McLean both done well when they came on as Brightons searched for a winner and McQue had a decent penalty claim turned down. At the other end Porteous and Scullion made some great challenges to keep out the home team and Sime’s handling was also excellent.
The replay will be played to a finish this Saturday with a 1.30pm kick off at Overton Park.

Team
Sime, Scullion, Forbes, Stuart, Porteous, Lines (Martin), N Irvine, McQue, Wood (McLean), Clark and Speirs

Subs not used - Brogan, Meikle & Sweeney

Whyteside man of the match – Neil Porteous



09/12/06

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup – 3rd Round

Brightons 7 Kilmarnock Amateurs 0

Brightons marched on to round 4 with a convincing win against their Ayrshire opponents on Saturday. With first team regulars Speirs, Newton and Stuart all unavailable Kieran Sweeney moved to the left and Lee Clark partnered James Wood up front. There was also a start in midfield for Davie Martin and he rolled back the years with a virtuoso performance.

Despite a heavy park Brightons came out flying and their quick passing game soon had the visitors on the back foot. A series of early corners led to the opener when Clark calmly slotted home from 12 yards as the visitors failed to clear. The keeper then tipped over from Wood and Sweeney sent a 20 yarder just wide after skipping past 2 men. No 2 quickly followed when Tony Sime's long clearance was flicked on by Clark to Sweeney who cut inside his man and played in Clark who finished with a deft flick over the keeper.

Brightons were playing some great stuff with wide men Sweeney and Nicky Irvine running riot down the flanks and Martin's range of passing causing the visitors all sorts of problems. Tam McQue came close with a couple of free kicks and Wood was unlucky to be ruled offside as he scored from a Martin pass. At the other end Sime easily dealt with a few long range efforts and John Scullion recovered well to block after the striker got in behind Sime. A quick free kick from Martin led to the third as he played in Clark who rounded the keeper and scored from a tight angle for his hat trick.

There was no let up after the break and Martin and Clark combined to set up McQue who's 20 yarder was to powerful for the keeper to hold. Irvine was then rewarded for his hard work when he calmly slotted past the keeper after a good run down the right. Gordon Forbes then found Clark on the edge of the box and he turned a defender then drilled home his 4th goal into the bottom corner. With the game won Scullion and Neil Porteous made way for Jason Brogan and Jimmy Meikle to join Forbes in the back 3 and Jamie McLean replaced Clark up front.

Sweeney continued to threaten down the left and he was unlucky to see his shot come back of the bar. The keeper saved another effort although Wood was better placed for a cut back. Martin made a similar run down the right and his unselfish pass did find Wood but the veteran striker was denied yet again by a fine save from the keeper. Sime produced a brilliant double save to ensure his clean sheet and Meikle completed the scoring just before the end when slotted home a Martin corner.

Brightons remain on cup duty next week away to St Peters in the Cinema Cup.

Team

Sime, Scullion (Meikle), Forbes, Sweeney, Porteous (Brogan), Martin, N Irvine, Lines, Wood, Clark (McLean) and McQue

Subs not used

Whyteside man of the match – Lee Clark



25/11/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Brightons 5 Laurieston 1

Brightons hard work to make the pitch playable paid off with another crucial 3 league points and a run out before next weeks Scottish Cup tie.

Brightons stuck with a 3-5-2 and made a positive start taking an early lead from the penalty spot. Tam McQue made a great run down the right and his deep cross was volleyed goal wards by Graham Speirs but handled on route. Veteran striker James Wood made no mistake from the spot.

The visitors then had a good 5 minute spell and forced a series of throw ins down the left but the Brightons rear guard stood firm. Brightons thought they had weathered the storm but the visitors drew level with a swift counter attack. A Brightons free kick broke down and the midfielder ran 60 yards unchallenged before hitting a rasper past Tony Sime into the top corner. Brightons failed to find any real rhythm for the remainder of the half and found no room in the midfield or flanks against the hard working Laurieston players and the teams went in level at the break.

Yet again the players responded to a half time rollicking from coach Alexander and gradually Brightons took control of the game. Wood and Kieran Sweeney were denied by fine saves from the visiting keeper before the impressive Mark Newton rose highest to head home a Speirs corner. Barry Stuart then showed why he is the quickest player in the Brightons team when he raced clear on to Wood's through ball and rounded the keeper to slide home the 3rd.

The visitors rallied briefly and Sime had to be alert in the Brightons goal to save bravely at the strikers feet. A switch back to a 4-4-2 allowed Stuart and Newton to take full control of the midfield as the visitors tired. Wood was played in and his shot was near enough over the line although Newton slid in just before a defender could clear to make sure.

Davie Martin finally made his long awaited come back to the first team when he replaced Wood. His classy flick sent Nicky Irvine away down the right flank and he side footed the cross goal ward only to be denied by another hand ball. With expert penalty taker off Sweeney stepped up but blasted the kick well over. Still time for another penalty as Newton was sent crashing down in the box and he showed Sweeney how it should be done with a perfect strike into the corner to complete his hat trick.

Brightons host Kilmarnock Amateurs in the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup on Saturday.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Porteous, Newton, McQue (N Irvine), Stuart, Wood (Martin), Clark (Brogan) and Sweeney

Subs not used Morrison

Whyteside man of the match – Mark Newton



11/11/06

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup – 2nd Round

Brightons 7 Markinch 0

Brightons eased through to round 3 with a comfortable win against fife team Markinch on Saturday. With Jamie McLean unavailable Kieran Sweeney partnered James Wood up front and Graham Speirs returned on the left.

Despite a heavy park Brightons came out flying and their quick passing game soon had the visitors under pressure. The opener arrived inside 10 minutes when Speirs played in Wood and the veteran marksman made no mistake from 6 yards. The second arrived shortly afterwards following a slick passing move, the ball was played to Wood who turned and sent Sweeney clear down the right and his square ball found the run of Tam McQue who found the bottom corner from 18 yards.

With Davie Lines protecting the back 3 well this allowed McQue and Barry Stuart to push forward. Stuart should have made it 3 after his surging run took him past 4 men but he shot well wide. Wood then tapped in his 2nd after Sweeney had done the hard work rounding the keeper. Sweeney was finally rewarded just before the break when he calmly side footed home following another pin point pass from Speirs.

Sweeney should have scored again 20 seconds into the 2nd half after being set up by Wood but he hesitated and the chance was gone. Brightons then switched off and the visitors had their best spell of the game and Tony Sime had to be alert to make 2 fine saves. Brightons picked up the pace again and Gordon Forbes found Wood’s run in the left channel, he beat his man and got to the bye line and crossed to the back post for the unmarked McQue to fire home.

Mark Newton replaced Stuart and again impressed by taking control of the midfield with his powerful strike from 25 yards making it 6. The keeper then denied McQue with a fine save and Newton came close from 2 corners. The scoring was complete just before the end when Wood pounced on a loose ball and was sent crashing down as he rounded the keeper but the ref played a good advantage and McQue was on hand to slide home and complete a well deserved hat trick. Brightons will now host Kilmarnock Amateurs in round 3 on 2nd December.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Forbes, N Irvine, Porteous (Brogan), Lines, McQue, Stuart, Wood, Sweeney and Speirs (S Irvine)

Subs not used Morrison

Whyteside man of the match – Tam McQue



04/11/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Chryston 3 Brightons 3

Brightons showed great character to come back from 2 goals down to lead this game with an excellent 2nd half performance but in the end had to settle for a share of the points.

The home team started well and had Brightons on the back foot early on with the movement of the front 2 unsettling the normally tight defence. It was no surprise when they took the lead when the forward surged into the box and managed to get the better of both Davie Lines and Gordon Forbes to cut back for his strike partner to fire home from close range.

Lines almost made amends when his 25 yarder flew just wide and that was as close as Brightons came to scoring in the first period. The home team doubled their lead just before half time with a quick break. The forward raced past Neil Porteous and Forbes before squaring again for his partner to control and calmly slot past the helpless Tony Sime.

The introduction of Barry Stuart and a switch to a back 3 in the 2nd period turned the game. Brightons had a much better shape and finally got their passing game going to score 3 goals in a brilliant 10 minute period. Forbes, Stuart and Tam McQue combined to release Nicky Irvine on the right flank and his low cross was finished off by Jamie McLean. James Wood, Stuart and Forbes were all involved in the build up to the equaliser with a fine move down the left allowing Forbes to send Kieran Sweeney in behind the back 4 and his drilled cross was met by the hard working Lines to score from 8 yards.

It was one way traffic at this stage and McLean pounced on a mistake by the last defender and slotted home from 18 yards to put Brightons in front. Stuart had a great chance to increase the lead but he headed just wide from a pin point Forbes free kick. The home team then won a corner in a rare 2nd half attack and worked a short one to the edge of the area giving the player time to steady himself and hit a rasper into the top corner past Sime who had been a virtual spectator in the Brightons goal up until then.

Brightons continued to press for the winner and had the home team pinned back, Sweeney shot narrowly wide and despite a series of late corners they couldn’t find a winner.

Brightons entertain Fife team Markinch in the 2nd round of the Scottish Cup this Saturday.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Morrison (Stuart), Forbes, Porteous, Lines, N Irvine, McQue, Wood, McLean, and Sweeney

Subs not used S Irvine and Brogan

Whyteside man of the match – Davie Lines



28/10/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Brightons 3 Eastfield United 2

Brightons bounced back from last weeks horror performance and maintained their 100% home record, picking up a crucial 3 points as well as inflicted a first league defeat on Eastfield on Saturday.

In a fairly tight opening spell chances were at a minimum with both defences looking solid. Brightons took the lead midway through the half with a well worked free kick. The ball was played to Tam McQue in space and his shot was only parried by the keeper allowing veteran striker James Wood to follow up and fire home from 8 yards. The visitors drew level just before the break from a set piece when Tony Sime was crowded out in the box as he came for a free kick and as the ball looped in the air it was headed home by a Eastfield player from close range.

Again the opening spell was tight after the break before Brightons were again undone from a set piece. The visitors worked a short corner and the resulting cross was miss hit and eluded Sime in goal and sneaked in at the back post. Brightons responded by going to a back 3 which allowed left back Graham Speirs a more attacking role and not for the first time this season 'Super Speiros' came up with the goods to get Brightons back in the game. Gordon Forbes played a long free kick into Wood who held of the defender before slipping in Speirs to score from close range. Brightons continued to press for a winner and Mark Newton came close with 2 headers from Speirs set pieces. Newton had more luck 15 minutes from time as he pounced on a loose ball in midfield and made a great run down the left flank to the bye line and his cross went over the keeper and in off the underside of the bar.

Eastfield pushed numbers forward in search of an equaliser but Neil Porteous was a rock in defence for Brightons and John Scullion showed his determination for the cause as he played out the last 5 minutes with a broken nose as the rearguard held firm to secure a fine win.

Brightons remain on league duty next Saturday when they travel to Chryston.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Porteous, Lines, S Irvine (Newton), McQue (N Irvine), Wood, McLean, and Sweeney (Morrison)

Subs not used Mann

Whyteside man of the match – Graham Speirs



21/10/06

East of Scotland Cup - 1st Round

Breck Hermitage Albion 2 Brightons 1

After the highs of last week Brightons were brought back down to earth with a bump and exit the East of Scotland Cup after a poor performance on Saturday.

Despite having the lions share of the possession in the first half Brightons struggled to find any form. A series of corners came to nothing and the only clear cut chance saw Kieran Sweeney's powerful shot come back of the post after Tam McQue and Scott Irvine had combined well to create the chance.

The home team only really looked dangerous from set pieces and took full advantage 10 minutes into the 2nd half from their first corner. Brightons failed to clear at the near post and the ball hit off the unfortunate Neil Porteous past Tony Sime. Brightons still couldn’t find any rhythm but thought they were level midway through the half when the home keeper allowed a back pass to go under his foot allowing Sweeney to nip in and score from a tight angle, or so he thought. The ref, from the centre circle, had deemed the ball was already out and awarded a corner to the disgust of the Brightons team several of whom were soon in his book.

Graham Speirs and James Wood were brought on and they combined 6 minutes from time with Wood heading home after he saw his first shot come back off the bar and the keeper blocking his second. With extra time looming the home team won a corner which went across the face of goal and hit Jamie McLean's thigh at the far post. Amazingly the ref awarded a penalty that Sime got a hand to but couldn’t stop.

Brightons must bounce back next Saturday when they entertain league leaders Eastfield United

Team

Sime, Scullion, Morrison (Mann), Forbes, Porteous, S Irvine, N Irvine, Douglas (Wood), McLean, McQue (Speirs) and Sweeney

Subs not used Lines

Whyteside man of the match – Neil Porteous



14/10/06

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup - 1st Round Replay

Brightons 2 Slamannan 1

Brightons progressed to round 2 after coming from a goal behind in another grueling cup tie with Slamannan. Brightons were forced into 3 changes from last week with Jason Brogan, Tam McQue and Callum Douglas coming into the starting 11 for Meikle, Speirs and Newton.

It was Slamannan who started best and they could have had the game won inside the opening 20 minutes. Gordon Kirkland headed wide with the goal at his mercy and Mark Penman was denied by a last gasp challenge from Gordon Forbes early on. They eventually took the lead with a quick break from a Brightons attack. Ross McCleneghan ran 30 yards and played in Graeme Whyte on the left and he steadied himself and hit a fine drive across Tony Sime into the far corner.

Brightons gradually worked their way into the game and McQue saw his free kick go narrowly wide. The game was turning into a real battle with no quarter given by either team resulting in some heavy challenges and a host of bookings and a stop start game. Brightons drew level right on half time. A quick throw from Sime gave Brogan time on the right flank and his long diagonal pass was flicked on by Douglas into the path of Kieran Sweeney who controlled well and composed himself to fire past Gareth Griffiths for his 3rd goal in as many games.

Brightons started the 2nd half well and came close from a few early corners. The next goal was going to be crucial and it was Brightons who got it via route one. A long clearance from Sime was flicked on by Douglas and Jamie McLean got in behind the defence to flick the ball over the advancing Griffiths to net his first goal for the club.

Brightons then suffered a blow when Neil Porteous had to go off injured but 17 year old Brogan slotted in beside Forbes at the heart of the defence and continued to have an outstanding game. David Wallace and Scott Laing came off the bench for Slamannan as they pushed forward for an equaliser. Wallace played in Kirkland who hit a rasping right footer but Sime was equal to the task and produced a fine save. Steven Rae was then ordered off after picking up a second caution and Brightons almost took advantage straight away when Davy Lines made a surging run but was denied a clear shot on goal by a last ditch tackle. Slamannan had one last chance in the dying minutes but Forbes cleared off the line following a goal mouth scramble to send Brightons into round 2 against Fife team Markinch.

Team

Sime, Brogan, Morrison, Forbes, Porteous (S Irvine), Scullion (Mann), N Irvine, McQue, McLean, Douglas (Lines) and Sweeney

Subs not used

Whyteside man of the match – Full Squad



07/10/06

Soccer World Scottish Amateur Cup - 1st Round

Slamannan 1 Brightons 1

Brightons will have to do battle with Slamannan again next week after a controversial late equaliser denied them victory on Saturday.

Brightons won the toss and decided to play with the near gale force wind at their backs and after a hectic opening spell they had Slamannan pinned back inside their own half. Brightons goal came on 20 minutes when Kieran Sweeney raced on to a deflected through ball and he calmly slotted past Gareth Griffiths in the Slamannan goal. Graham Speirs then set up Mark Newton to hit a screamer from 30 yards but Griffiths produced a fine save to tip it over. From the resulting corner Neil Porteous headed down but Jimmy Meikle was inches away from connecting close in.

Gordon Forbes then released Grant Morrison away down the left but Griffiths again got down well to save his 20 yard strike. For all the pressure Brightons had to settle for a 1 goal lead at the break.

As expected Slamannan came out fired up after the break and although they had the territorial advantage the back 4 of Brightons stood firm with ex Slamannan players Forbes and Meikle well up for the challenge. Brightons had a scare midway through the second half when keeper Tony Sime injured a calf making a save. After throwing the ball out then 5 minutes of treatment he managed to continue but rather than return the ball Slamannan took the corner but worse than that was to follow later.

Scott Laing came off the bench for Slamannan and he made a good impact with his pace and he twice went close to equalising. Brightons had to further shuffle the pack after Mark Newton and John Scullion both limped off injured but the defence was protecting Sime well. Slamannan finally drew level with 10 minutes to go but in controversial circumstances. A free kick was headed goal wards and looked to be carrying through to Sime but Ross McCleneghan stuck out his hand to punch the ball into the net. Amazingly the referee awarded a goal despite furious protests from the Brightons players meaning the two teams must do it all over again at Overton Park on Saturday.

Team

Sime, Meikle, Speirs, Forbes, Porteous, Newton (Brogan), N Irvine, Scullion (McQue), McLean, Sweeney (Lines) and Morrison

Subs not used S Irvine, Wood

Whyteside man of the match - Jimmy Meikle



30/09/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

East Kilbride 1 Brightons 3

Brightons picked up another valuable 3 league points on Saturday despite not hitting top form against a vastly improved East Kilbride team from last season.

After a fairly even opening spell it was Brightons who took the lead on 15 minutes with a well worked goal. Gordon Forbes found Jamie McLean’s clever run in the box and his first time lay off was brilliantly finished by Barry Stuart who hit a rasping left footer into the top corner.

The home team were level within 10 minutes though as a lapse in concentration at the back allowed the home forward in on goal and he went down under the slightest of touches from Tony Sime to win a penalty which was converted. Brightons showed great character to hit back immediately, Andrew Mann’s corner from the right was met with a powerful header by Stuart from six yards to restore the lead.

With Mark Newton controlling the midfield Brightons pressed for further goals to kill off the dogged home team and McLean had 2 decent penalty claims turned down by the referee. The home team almost drew level midway through the 2nd half but Nicky Irvine was well placed to chest a header off the line then another header glanced the top of the bar.

Stuart had 2 chances to complete his hat trick, as first he stung the keepers hands with a 25 yarder then blasted over from only 10 yards. McLean then saw his lob come back off the bar before sub Kieran Sweeney settled the game as he pounced on a poor clearance from the keeper and calmly slotted home.

Brightons make the short trip up the braes to Slamannan in the Scottish Cup 1st Round this Saturday.

Team

Sime, Scullion (Morrison), Forbes, Meikle, Porteous, Newton, S Irvine (Sweeney), Stuart, McLean, N Irvine and Mann

Subs not used – Lines, Brogan

Whyteside man of the match – Barry Stuart



23/09/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Brightons 1 St Peters 0

Brightons maintained their 100% home record but left it late before taking all 3 points against St Peters on Saturday.

A bright start from Brightons saw Callum Douglas play in Kieran Sweeney but his shot was blocked. Douglas then had a fine left foot shot turned round the post by the keeper.

Brightons were rarely troubled at the back allowing full back Graham Speirs to do more attacking than defending and he put in a great cross from the left but Jimmy Meikle’s header went just wide with the keeper beaten. Speirs then hit the bye line but Sweeney headed the cross well over. Despite dominating Brightons went in level at the break.

Sweeney then had a great chance right after the break when he robbed the last defender but his lob beat the keeper and went just wide. Nicky Irvine and Jamie McLean both came on up front and Brightons switched to a back 3 allowing Speirs to play off the front 2. N Irvine pounced on a mistake in the visitors defence but lashed his shot well over the bar. McLean then beat the offside trap and the keeper but saw his net bound shot cleared off the line. Scott Irvine then sent in a great cross from the right but Mark Newton headed wide from 10 yards.

Speirs saved the day for Brightons with 8 minutes left when he sent a great left foot drive from 20 yards flying into the bottom corner as the visitors failed to clear a corner. The visitors pushed 3 up front in search of an equaliser but the back line held firm to record a first clean sheet of the season.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Stuart, Meikle, S Irvine, Sweeney (McLean), Douglas (N Irvine), McQue (Newton) and Mann

Subs not used - Morrison

Whyteside man of the match – Graham Speirs


16/09/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Denny 1 Brightons 1

Despite dominating this game Brightons dropped 2 valuable points against a poor Denny outfit losing further ground in the league in the process.

Nicky Irvine and Jamie McLean both passed up early chances as Brightons were well in control but it was the home team who took a shock lead from a corner on 15 minutes.

Brightons rallied with Mark Newton and new signing Jimmy Meikle controlling the midfield but just couldn’t find the crucial break through in the final third and went in behind at the break.

Brightons continued to press after the break with Graham Speirs prominent down the left flank but despite all the pressure couldn’t get a break in front of goal. Barry Stuart and Callum Douglas came off the bench and Brightons switched to a back 3 with the move soon paying off. Newton played in Speirs down the left and his angled drive was parried by the keeper and Douglas reacted first to head home. Douglas then ran on to a long ball but couldn’t get enough on his lob and the keeper saved.

In a rare attack the home forward got in behind Tony Sime on the edge of the box but Gordon Forbes got back to clear the danger. Brightons went in search of the winner with Neil Porteous and Meikle heading wide from corners. Douglas then whipped in 2 great crosses from the right with Speirs shooting just wide from the first and Barry Stuart heading over from the second. It could have been much worse right on time as the home team had a decent penalty claim turned down.

Brightons remain on league duty next week at home to St Peters.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Porteous, Meikle, S Irvine, N Irvine (Stuart), McLean (Douglas), Newton, Sweeney (Mann)

Subs not used - Morrison

Whyteside man of the match – Graham Speirs



2/09/06

John Smith’s Division 1b

Brightons 3 Chryston 1

Brightons continued the good home form at the new ground of Overton Park to put their first league points on the board.

Graham Speirs and Grant Morrison created 2 openings inside the first 5 minutes with good link play down the left but neither Callum Douglas or Kieran Sweeney could provide the finishing touch.

On 10 minutes the visitors took the lead from the penalty spot, both Neil Porteous and Gordon Forbes failed to deal with the keeper’s long clearance allowing the forward to get in behind and being brought down by Porteous. Tony Sime could do nothing to stop a well taken penalty.

Brightons rallied and began to play some good football orchestrated by Mark Newton who had replaced the injured Gary Jacobs. After forcing a series of corners they drew level when Speirs hammered home a great volley from 20 yards. Brightons were well on top and soon took the lead when Speirs’ in swinging free kick was glanced home by Newton.

Brightons continued to control the game after the break, Speirs and Morrison continued to link well on the left and Tam McQue and Scott Irvine were getting some joy down the right. Some excellent crosses were put in from the flanks but Brightons just couldn’t get on the end of them to seal the game. Speirs again showed his value from set pieces when he whipped in another great corner that a defender could only head in for an own goal.

The visitors then pushed 3 up front but the Brightons back line gave them little change. A scrappy period followed with some heavy challenges flying around and the visitors were reduced to 10 men after McQue was sythed down by a bad tackle.

Lines came on for Douglas and he had a good spell as Brightons finished strongly and should have added to the scoreline. The best chance fell to Sweeney who showed great skill to go past the keeper but then shot over from close range.

Brightons have no game next week returning to league action on 16th September, away to Denny.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Porteous, Jacobs (Newton), McQue, S Irvine, Douglas (Lines), Sweeny and Morrison

Subs not used -

Whyteside man of the match – Mark Newton



30/08/06

John Smiths Central League Division 1b

Stenhouse Athletic 2 Brightons 1

The first league match of this seasons campaign presented Brightons with a stiff task as they visited Stenhouse, sure to be up there challenging for the league. As usual coach Alexander had to shuffle the pack but Brightons got off to a great start when Gary Jacobs fired them ahead after just 3 minutes. However the golden rule was broken as Brightons failed to concentrate and consolidate this early lead and Stenhouse immediately broke back with the equalizer. The home side then had the best of the first half and took the lead just on the interval.

A customary ear bashing by the coach at half time seemed to spark Brightons into a more aggressive and assertive mood on the resumption with Nicky Irvine and Tam McQue driving forward. Chances were created but unfortunately missed with the best chance falling to Kieran Sweeney who failed to net with a close in header.

So despite an improvement, at least in attitude in the second half the locals still came away with nothing from their first league encounter of the season. The next match is a home fixture against Cryston and 3 points is a must.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Forbes (S. Irvine), Stuart (Morrison), Porteous, Jacobs, McQue, N. Irvine, Douglas, McLean and Sweeney (Newton)

Subs not used -

Whyteside man of the match - Tam McQue



26/08/06

John Smith’s Bunrigh League Cup

Eastfield United 1 Brightons 2

After a defeat to Stenhouse and a victory against Leith, Brightons travelled to Rutherglen to face Eastfield United requiring at least a 2 goal victory to progress to the quarter finals. Neil Porteous and Tam McQue had to be content with a place on the bench after serving their 2 match suspensions. Andrew Mann came in for Graham Speirs at left back and Jamie McLean started up front for the absent James Wood.

Brightons got off to a dream start and took the lead after only 5 minutes. Mann played in a free kick from the right and Scott Irvine glanced the ball off his knee over the keeper into the roof of the net. The home team then dominated for twenty minutes in which time they had Brightons dragged all over the pitch and deservedly equalised with a quick break down the right and cut back that was neatly finished. Mann then limped off injured and Neil Porteous came on in the heart of the defence with Gordon Forbes moving to left back. Brightons were now looking more solid with big 'Bobo' dominant in the air and strong in the tackle and came slightly more into the game creating a few half chances before the break.

A rollicking from coach Alexander seemed to do the trick at half time as Brightons came out fired up for the 2nd period. The front 2 of McLean and Callum Douglas came more into the game with better service being supplied from the midfield. Kieran Sweeney shot just wide after a good run down the left as Brightons took control. They hit the front again when John Scullion made amends for a girl like throw in, he picked up possession again just inside the box and jinked past 2 defenders before drilling a fine shot across the keeper into the bottom corner. A physical 10 minute spell followed but Brightons were well up for it with Porteous in particular immense at the heart of the defence and with Tony Sime on top form in goals the home team couldn’t find an equaliser. Brightons however needed another goal at the other end and Tam McQue impressed when he came on down the right flank and Gary Jacobs came on in centre midfield to create openings. The best chance fell to McLean as he sprung the offside trap for a 1 on 1 with the keeper but saw his shot saved. Brightons did have the ball in the net late on but Barry Stuart's strike was ruled marginally offside.

That meant Leith, Stenhouse and Brightons were all tied on 6 points with Leith progressing by 1 goal. Brightons play their first league game this Wednesday away to Stenhouse Athletic, 6.45pm kick off.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Mann (Porteous), Forbes, Stuart, O'Brien (McQue), N Irvine, S Irvine (Jacobs), Douglas, McLean and Sweeney

Subs not used - Lines

Whyteside man of the match – Neil Porteous



23/08/06

John Smith’s Bunrigh League Cup

Brightons 2 Leith Athletic 1

Brightons started life at the new ground of Overton Park with a well deserved victory over Premier League Leith Athletic on Wednesday night in front of a bumper crowd compared to their Linlithgow days.

With Neil Porteous and Tam McQue still suspended and further late call offs Coach Alexander was again forced to shuffle the pack. Utility player Barry Stuart joined Gordon Forbes in the heart of the defence, the ‘Spice’ brothers Irvine were paired in the centre of midfield and Kieran Sweeney got a start on the right flank.

Brightons were right up for it from the first whistle and played with a much better tempo and shape than on Saturday however Nicky Irvine showed perhaps a bit to much aggression when the referee booked him after only 5 minutes for a rash tackle. After a fairly even first 20 minutes Brightons picked up the pace and scored the opener with a well worked move. Graham Speirs and Grant Morrison linked well down the left to feed James Wood, the veteran marksman turned inside his man and his perfect in swinging cross was headed home by Callum Douglas. With the defence looking solid and Wood and Douglas causing the visiting defence problems Brightons went close to increasing the lead. Yet again slack defending 1 minute before the break cost Brightons a goal. A quick throw from the visitors caught Brightons on the back foot and the midfielder surged into the box and hit a fierce shot which Tony Sime got a hand to but went in off the post.

The visitors had their best spell of the game just after the break and controlled possession but could not break down the solid Brightons rear guard. Brightons came back into it and hit the front again from the penalty spot. A quick throw from Speirs to Forbes and a square pass to Stuart allowed him time to hit a raking 60 yard pass into the stride of Sweeney down the right. He saw his shot well saved by the keeper but he reacted well to go round him and see his net bound shot punched clear by a defender who received a straight red card. Wood was his usual clinical self scoring from the spot.

Brightons introduced the fresh legs of Davy Lines and Jamie McLean who replaced Douglas and Wood and should have took control with the extra man but it was the visitors who pushed numbers forward looking for the equaliser. Sime had to be on his toes late on to save well from a free header but Brightons stayed firm for a fine victory.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Stuart, Sweeney, N Irvine, S Irvine, Wood (Lines), Douglas (McLean) and Morrison

Subs not used -

Whyteside man of the match – Barry Stuart



19/08/06

John Smith’s Bunrigh League Cup

Stenhouse Athletic 1 Brightons 0

Brightons started their season with a loss against newcomers to the league and current East of Scotland champions Stenhouse Athletic at Russell Park on Saturday.

Both teams were weakened with injuries and suspensions but this didn’t seem to affect the home team who started at a blistering pace with their quick passing game giving Brightons all sorts of problems and Tony Sime was called into action to turn a net bound shot round the post early on.

Brightons gradually settled and a couple of surging runs from Barry Stuart almost lead to openings however the pack had to be further shuffled and Stuart had to move back to defence after Jason Brogan limped off injured. Sub Davy Lines almost made an immediate impact as he chased a long high ball that bounced just outside the box and the defender headed over the keeper who recovered well to block Lines’ effort. Graham Speirs then made a great run down the left and his cross was met by Callum Douglas at the back post who was unlucky to see his header hit the post and run along the line before being cleared.

The home team took the lead a minute before the break with a well worked goal, a few one two’s allowed the forward to get to the bye line on the right and his cut back was tapped into the empty net by his strike partner as the Brightons defence failed to react.

Brightons improved in the second half and had more possession but struggled to break down a well drilled home defence. Sime produced vital saves to keep Brightons in the game as the home team’s front 3 always looked dangerous in the final third. A dog then decided to get in on the act and promptly floored Kieran Sweeney as he raced down the left flank, the ref had no hesitation in showing a straight red!!

Brightons best chances came from the set piece delivery of Speirs and could have snatched a draw with Stuart twice going close with headers. James Wood then played in Nicky Irvine late on but he was hauled back as he raced in on goal resulting in the only ‘official’ booking of the game. With the free kick coming to nothing it was the home team deservedly won the game.

Team

Sime, Scullion, Speirs, Forbes, Brogan (Lines), Stuart, Douglas (Wood), S Irvine, N Irvine, Jacobs and Morrison (Sweeney)

Subs not used -

Whyteside man of the match – Tony Sime



05/08/06

Friendly

Brightons 3 Stirling City 1

After a draw and a loss against 2 junior teams (reports Brian??) Brightons finally got a deserved win under their belts against Stirling City from the Stirling & District Association.

As the new home park was still not ready for action the game was played at Sunnyside. With a few players unavailable due to holiday and work commitments the squad was only 14 which allowed new signing Gary Jacobs (who was recommended by Brightons International Scout - Stephen Martin) a start up front along side Nicky Irvine and Jason Brogan a start in the centre of defence with Neil Porteous.

The opening 20 minutes was fairly even as both teams settled into the game without creating any clear cut chances. Jacobs and Irvine were linking well up front and their direct running was starting to give the visiting defence problems. Irvine latched on to a through ball and saw his clever lob go just wide before Brightons grabbed the opener on 30 minutes. Tam McQue spread the ball wide left to Gordon Forbes and he played in Grant Morrison down the flank, Morrison's cross caused confusion between the keeper and defenders and as they hesitated young James O'Brien nipped in to slot home at the back post from 8 yards. McQue and Barry Stuart were now taking control of the midfield with Morrison and O'Brien also showing up well on the flanks and with the back 4 looking solid the visitors were limited to long range efforts as Brightons went in 1 up at the break.

The visitors pressed forward in the 2nd half with the wind at their backs and pulled level early on, Brogan lost a few yards on the forward who scored with a clever lob over stand in keeper Gavin although he did look to be just offside in the build up. That fired up Brightons and they were back in front within 5 minutes as 'Raoul' McQue decided to produce another one of his specials for the watching laydeez. He picked the ball up just inside his own half and left 3 players in his wake as he surged in on goal and hit a screamer from 18 yards past the keeper high into the net.

The fresh legs of Scott Irvine and Davie Lines had the visitors on the back foot as Brightons pressed for a third, N Irvine and Jacobs both had half chances then a great run from Stuart almost led to number 3 but the keeper made a brave save at his feet. At the other end the visitors forced a series of corners but the Brightons back line coped with them well with Porteous excellent as usual in the heart of the defence.

With 5 minutes left Jacobs sealed the win, he controlled a pass on his chest before turning and hitting a dipping volley from 18 yards that found the bottom corner for a well deserved goal.

Team

Gavin, Scullion, Forbes, Brogan, Porteous, McQue (S Irvine), O'Brien (Lines), Stuart, N Irvine, Jacobs and Morrison

Subs not used -

Whyteside man of the match – Gary Jacobs

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