13/05/2017
Ellon Meadows FC v Westdyke CC
Saturday 13th May 2017
The boys welcomed Westdyke CC to The Meadows for the final game of the season and were looking for a win which would have meant a joint 4th finish in the B League.
Numbers were again tight due to illness and injury, with Jack Bell getting a late call to come and help out despite suffering a bad ankle twist a couple of weeks ago.
Ellon started the game brightly and threatened the Westdyke goal on a couple of occasions but couldn't find a way past some solid defending. Westdyke then took a surprise lead when a through ball found the forward in acres of space (a hint of offside??) and he calmly placed the ball wide of Grazzer and into the net.
Ellon responded immediately and forced a succession of corners but the ball just wouldn't go in.
Ellon were dealt a blow midway through the first half when Nairn was sent off, much to the bemusement of players, coaches and spectators of both teams.
The boys were battling away despite being down to 10 men and were unfortunate to concede a second goal shortly before half time when a cross from the left wasn't dealt with and the Westdyke striker prodded the ball home.
Half time 0-2
The second half was an altogether scrappier affair, with the numerous stoppages not helping either team getting in to any kind of rhythm. Westdyke extended their lead before Scott Fraser pulled one back for Ellon with a fine strike from a free kick from just outside the box.
Ellon continued to push forward in the hope of getting back in to the game and had a strong claim for a penalty when Ross Connon was flattened by the Westdyke keeper while going for a cross. However, the referee waved play on, despite the keeper making no contact with the ball and a lot of contact with Ross's head.
The 10 men of Ellon were still working hard. However, in trying to find a way back in to the game, were leaving themselves short at the back at times and Westdyke capitalised on this when a long ball caused uncertainty between Nathaniel and a couple of Ellon defenders, leaving the Wesdyke striker to fire into an empty net.
Shortly after, Westdyke scored a fifth with a shot from the edge of the box.
To the great credit of the Ellon boys, they pulled a goal back in the 90th minute, Scott Fraser getting his second of the day with a sweet, left foot shot from 25 yards that flew in to the top corner.
Full time EMFC 2 - Westdyke 5
A disappointing result today, but the boys can look back on the season with a lot of pride. Recent victories against the top 2 teams (Middlefield and Banchory) give us plenty to be positive about for next season.
Thanks to each and every one of the boys for their effort and commitment this season and also huge thanks to the parents, family and supporters who have encouraged them throughout. Hope to see as many of you as possible at the EMFC Competitive Teams Presentation Night, Sunday 28th May, 4pm at The Station Hotel, Ellon.
Finally, congratulations to Middlefield Wasps on winning the B League this season, richly deserved winners.