November 2023 – Bo'ness Athletic Football Club


04/05/2024 14:30 N/A Bo’ness Athletic v Burntisland Shipyard (League)


18/05/2024 14:30 N/A Bo’ness Athletic v Dalkeith Thistle (League)

Player	Appearances	Goals	Yellow Cards
Ryan Robertson	41	32	2
Fraser Currid	39	0	2
Jonny Mitchell	39	2	7
Callum MacDonald	39	31	4

Arniston Rangers v Bo’ness Athletic

Posted on 25/11/202326/11/2023 by digital

Bo’ness delivered an absolute masterclass today, clinching their spot in the Alex Jack Cup final with a resounding 3-0 victory over Arniston Rangers in a showdown that set the pitch ablaze despite the frosty conditions.

The clash ignited in an early kick-off as Bo’ness, with their latest recruit, Godwin Kangni-Soukpe, making an electrifying debut, stormed into the match. M. Weir, Snedden, and MacDonald emerged as the heroes, sealing a spectacular win that seemed improbable initially due to patches of frozen grass threatening to derail the showdown.

Yet, the game pushed on, and from the outset, Bo’ness commanded the field, basking in the glow of the sun during the opening half. It was a period peppered with frustration as loose passes between the defence and midfield cast shadows over their play. Despite this, early opportunities surfaced for Bo’ness, with the youthful dynamo Godwin causing havoc down the wings. Snedden unleashed a thunderous shot from a distance, narrowly missing the target.

Arniston, however, attempted to break the deadlock, testing Currid with a swift header, only to be thwarted by an offside call from the vigilant referee. The pace intensified, with both sides eager to make their mark. In the 19th minute, a tantalizing corner from Robertson met M. Weir’s head, but the ball soared over the bar, leaving the Bo’ness faithful gasping.

As the game unfolded, Bo’ness gained momentum. Godwin’s mesmerizing footwork down the right flank created an opening, delivering a tantalizing pass into the 6-yard box, but the subsequent strike from Roberston veered off target.

Persistence paid off for Bo’ness when M. Weir orchestrated a breakthrough, evading the offside trap from a sublime Snedden pass. With a single touch to control, M. Weir unleashed a left-footed thunderbolt, leaving the Arniston keeper helpless and the visiting fans erupting with relief.

Bo’ness continued to press forward, with MacDonald and Robertson taking shots at goal, but luck eluded them until Snedden capitalized on a defensive clearance, chesting down a clearance and launching a sensational left-footed strike. A slight deflection off Arniston’s no. 5 saw the ball loop into the net, leaving the keeper stranded.

As the first half concluded, Bo’ness held a commanding lead, but the game remained wide open.

The second half commenced with Bo’ness maintaining their offensive onslaught. Debutant Godwin made way for R. Weir in the 50th minute, as wave after wave of attacks crashed against Arniston’s defence. A well-placed free-kick by Robertson was spotted far too late by the Arniston keeper who could only ger a hand to it, resulting in an easy tap-in for MacDonald, further solidifying Bo’ness’s dominance.

With victory all but sealed, Bo’ness tactically substituted Robertson for Simpson, looking to secure their position. Ogilvie nearly added a fourth with a skillful run into the box, only to be denied by a remarkable save from the Arniston stopper’s strong hand.

In a bid for consolation, Arniston earned a penalty in the dying minutes. However, Currid, determined to preserve his clean sheet, dived to his left, not only stopping the shot but firmly securing the ball, denying Arniston any reprieve.

The final moments ticked away, confirming Bo’ness’s progression to the final, setting the stage for an electrifying clash against Heriot Watt University.

A special mention is reserved for the indomitable Bo’ness defence of Shanks, Paterson, Woodburn, and Mitchell, who showcased sheer resilience in a remarkable final 60-minute spell, repelling every challenge with unwavering determination.

Final Score: Arniston Rangers 0 – 3 Bo’ness Athletic
The Alex Jack Cup Semi Final

Bo’ness Athletic v Whitburn

Posted on 18/11/202322/11/2023 by digital

Bo’ness set Newtown Park ablaze in a scintillating clash that saw them dominate the 1st Division league leaders Whitburn, kicking off their triumphant march through a series of various Cup clashes with a thunderous 6-2 victory. Goals rained down from the heavens, courtesy of M. Weir (twice), Ogilvie (also twice), Woodburn, and Paterson, propelling them into the next round of the King Cup on a rain-drenched afternoon.

The home side exuded confidence from the get-go, riding high on their recent triumph over Lowland League Linlithgow just over a week prior. Their swagger was unmistakable, evident as early as the 3rd minute when M. Weir ignited the scoreboard, seizing an opportunity created by a shaky pass-back between Whitburn’s No. 8 and their goalkeeper. Weir took advantage of a bobble and effortlessly tapped in, setting the tone for Bo’ness’s dominance.

Barely three minutes later, Ogilvie stretched their advantage. A masterful diagonal delivery from Shanks found Ogilvie’s chest, from which the striker’s first-time shot, taken at an acute angle, pierced the net on the opposite side, leaving the keeper grasping at thin air.

Robertson nearly buried Whitburn on the 12th minute, his unmarked strike hammering the left-hand upright, much to the visitors’ relief.

Although Bo’ness crafted numerous opportunities, they failed to capitalize until the 36th minute. MacDonald’s precise pass found Ogilvie, who cleverly evaded the offside trap, outmaneuvered the keeper, and expertly buried the ball into the left corner, solidifying Bo’ness’s commanding 3-0 lead at the break.

The second half saw Whitburn struggling to find their footing. Despite a player limping off in the first half, due to injury, they attempted to rally, but Bo’ness continued their relentless onslaught. Woodburn’s towering header off a corner in the 57th minute soared over the keeper, effectively sealing the fate of the match.

Whitburn fought back, clawing a goal through a well-executed reverse pass, but Bo’ness swiftly replied. M. Weir’s run into the box resulted in a shot deflecting off a Whitburn player, sending their keeper the wrong way and further extending Bo’ness’s lead.

Despite Robertson’s persistent attempts, luck eluded him, denying him another goal-scoring opportunity.

Whitburn managed to notch another goal in the 66th minute, leaving Currid helpless with a clinical strike. Both Weirs came agonizingly close to adding to the tally, but near-misses kept the scoreline unchanged.

A final flourish came from Paterson’s emphatic header off a perfectly delivered corner by Robertson, sealing the deal. In the dying moments, Whitburn’s No. 7 received a second yellow, sealing their fate as Bo’ness basked in a well-deserved triumph.

This resounding 6-2 victory over a higher division rival sets the stage for Bo’ness to embrace any challenge in the next round of the King Cup. Their display of prowess has cemented their status as formidable contenders, ready to take on any adversary that dares to cross their path.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 6 – 2 Whitburn
King Cup 1st Round First Round

Burntisland Shipyard v Bo’ness Athletic

Posted on 12/11/202314/11/2023 by digital

In a poignant prelude to the game, Burntisland and Bo’ness set the stage by observing a minute’s silence in honour of Remembrance Day. Against the stunning backdrop of the Burntisland Hills and a clear blue sky, the stage was set for a thrilling contest.

The whistle’s shrill cry marked the beginning, accompanied by the fervent beats of the young Burntisland Ultras’ drums, resonating through the air for the next hour and 45 minutes. What ultimately unfolded was another solid performance with Bo’ness leaving Burntisland in their wake, clinching victory on a heavy pitch and proving their mettle away from home.

Managerial decisions brought Paterson into the fold due to Sharples’ injury, and R. Weir commenced the game in front of MacDonald, setting the stage for a captivating clash.

In the initial exchanges, Burntisland seemed the livelier side, with three quick corners that Bo’ness adeptly defended. A subsequent cross-cum-shot posed little threat to the vigilant Currid.

Bo’ness’s Robertson, known for his explosive runs down the left, sought to make an impact, but a blocked low pass resulted in a corner. Burntisland, however, had an early long-range attempt in the 9th minute, sailing wide of Currid’s left post.

The 13th minute brought the breakthrough for Bo’ness, orchestrated by the unstoppable Robertson. Roaring down the left, he delivered a precise pass to the surging Ogilvie, who met the ball with finesse, dispatching it into the net with a leap over the diving keeper.

Just before half-time, Bo’ness doubled their lead from a Robertson free-kick. R. Weir’s well-timed forward run culminated in a chest-high header that sailed past the Burntisland keeper, further solidifying Bo’ness’s control.

As the second half commenced, Burntisland sought a resurgence. Their no.9 made a spirited attempt in the box, but Currid was untested as the ball skidded wide.

In the 49th minute, Robertson unleashed a ferocious shot from the edge of the 18-yard box, prompting a swift reaction from the Burntisland keeper, who deflected the ball high over the bar. Robertson’s impressive display concluded as MacDonald stepped in on the 52nd minute.

Ogilvie showcased his skill with deft footwork, outmanoeuvring the keeper and delivering a tantalising cross into the 6-yard box. MacDonald’s inches-away header narrowly missed adding to the score line.

MacDonald didn’t have to wait long for redemption. Three minutes later, in a seamless play between MacDonald and R. Weir, MacDonald danced past a sliding defender, cutting the ball onto his right foot before launching a low-driven shot into the corner, leaving defenders and goalkeeper sprawled on the turf.

The points secured, the game meandered towards its conclusion, notable only for M. Weir’s tantalising run into the box, resulting in an acutely angled shot that veered away for a throw-in.

On the 74th minute, R. Weir made way for defender Simpson, granting him valuable playing time.

As the final whistle sounded, only a minute and 15 seconds of added time had transpired. Burntisland, known for their resilience at home, found themselves thwarted in the face of Bo’ness’s steely defence, spearheaded by the indomitable Currid, who once again secured a clean sheet.

Burntisland may be a tricky adversary on their home turf, but Bo’ness emerged triumphant, displaying tactical finesse, offensive prowess, and defensive resilience. The respect rightfully extends to the Bo’ness defence, who played an instrumental role in yet another shutout, a testament to their consistency and the outstanding goalkeeping prowess of Currid this season.

Final Score: Burntisland Shipyard 0 – 3 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 12

Linlithgow Rose v Bo’ness Athletic

Posted on 08/11/202309/11/2023 by digital

In a thrilling Cup encounter at Prestonfield, Bo’ness proved their might, commanding a resounding 5-1 victory over Linlithgow Rose, propelling them to a triumphant advancement in the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup. An early 4-0 lead at half-time seemed reminiscent of a familiar script, yet Bo’ness didn’t falter in the second half, elevating their lead to a formidable 5-0 before Linlithgow managed a consolation goal, cementing one of Bo’ness’s most historic victories.

The formidable duo of Robertson and M. Weir, with contributions from Snedden, spearheaded Bo’ness’s win, highlighting the team’s prowess and intent to dominate the opposition. Two goals each from Robertson and M. Weir, accompanied by a fine finish from Snedden, marked a resounding passage into the next round of the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup.

From the opening moments, Bo’ness’s hunger was evident as they pursued the ball with ferocity. Just five minutes in, M. Weir had the first shot, fired straight at the keeper, offering an easy save for the Linlithgow stopper.

However, within moments, Bo’ness struck, surging ahead in an electrifying fashion. A lofted pass from MacKay to Robertson on the left flank set the stage. A deflected ball from Ogilvie led to Robertson thundering a high-velocity shot past the goalkeeper, sending the Linlithgow crowd into stunned silence.

As the match progressed, Bo’ness’s relentless attacking display was evident. Macdonald’s audacious attempt, followed by a near miss from Robertson, showcased their intentions, the scoreline, however, remained 1-0.

The 13th minute witnessed a jubilant celebration from Bo’ness, as Ogilvie’s precise delivery to M. Weir allowed a composed finish, doubling their lead to 2-0. The Linlithgow fans looked on, left in disbelief.

In the 20th minute, M. Weir turned provider, carving through the left wing and serving a pinpoint cross to Snedden, who struck the third goal with confidence. As he wheeled away in celebration the Linlithgow players could only look to each other.

Only six minutes later, Bo’ness bolstered their lead to 4-0 in remarkable fashion. A sweeping cross-field pass from Shank found Ogilvie, who elegantly delivered a pass to Mitchell. Unmarked, Robertson had little trouble in slotting the ball into the net, further deflating Linlithgow.

Linlithgow’s attempts late in the first half posed no real threat to Currid, ensuring Bo’ness’s impressive 4-0 lead at halftime. However, Bo’ness went looking to turn the screw even firther as M. Weir had another chance to add to his tally when his shot from close range seemed to be palmed over the bar by the keeper , then Robertson found Ogilvie in the box and his effort came back off the post , was cleared to MacDonald and his half volley looked goal bound but was clear away by a headed deflection.

The second half commenced with Bo’ness displaying a hunger akin to the initial kick-off. A six-minute delay due to a knock sustained by Sharples necessitated a substitution with Simpson stepping in.

The climax of the match unfolded at the 59-minute mark when Robertson embarked on an incredible run from his own half. His mesmerizing dribbling down the left flank ended with a sensational assist to M. Weir, extending Bo’ness’s lead to an insurmountable 5-0.

The management then replaced MacDonald with R. Weir, further solidifying Bo’ness’s dominant position, effectively shutting down any potential comeback hopes by Linlithgow.

Despite Linlithgow’s efforts, including a curling shot, and a late consolation goal by their substitute no.18, courtesy of a brilliant through ball, there was no tangible threat to Bo’ness’s commanding lead.

Sneddon, stepping in as a 16-year-old substitute for Ogilvie, displayed remarkable composure under pressure, upholding the team’s strength and resolve in the crucial fixture.

In the final moments, a potential penalty claim by Sneddon was disregarded by the referee, and the long eight minutes of injury time seemed to stretch for both teams for different reasons. However, the final whistle marked Bo’ness’s celebration, rejoicing in their spectacular accomplishment.

This victory holds an esteemed place in Bo’ness’s history. To overcome a team currently in the Lowland league in such convincing fashion is a testament to the club’s capability. Not even Raith Rovers could match this resounding score-line at Prestonfield in their two recent fixtures with Linlithgow. Bo’ness’s unmatched performance paves the way for future encounters, and the team marches forward with confidence for the next round of this competition.

Final Score: Linlithgow Rose 1 – Bo’ness Athletic 5
East of Scotland Qualifying Cup Third Round

Bo’ness Athletic v Edinburgh College

Posted on 04/11/202306/11/2023 by digital

Newtown Park was the battleground for a physical clash that saw Bo’ness reinstating their winning rhythm with an emphatic 7-0 conquest over Edinburgh College, catapulting them a commanding four points clear at the top of the league table. Goals from the likes of Robertson, MacDonald, M. Weir, and Mitchell signified a robust and compelling performance from a full-strength Bo’ness squad, fortified by another shutout from Currid marshalling the defence.

In an electrifying start, a swift delivery over the top found M. Weir charging into the box, only to be thwarted by the keeper’s decisive punch. However, the keeper’s athletic intervention resulted in a possible injury, but valiantly, he continued despite appearing to suffer a hand or wrist issue. Just moments later, MacDonald dared an audacious lob from the edge of the 18-yard area. Although the keeper appeared in control, his injury played a part, inadvertently dropping the ball, and in a split second, Robertson was alert, heading home from close range to grant Bo’ness an early 1-0 lead.

The injury brought an early curtain call for the Edinburgh stopper, swiftly replaced by a stand-in keeper, setting the stage for a whirlwind of action. In the 16th minute, Edinburgh, on the offensive, exploited gaps, with their number 10 unleashing a strike from 25 yards, narrowly missing the target.

Swift counterplay from Bo’ness, with Robertson storming down the left flank into the box, was swiftly cut off by a vigilant Edinburgh defender, preventing a potential goal. Seconds later, a splendid delivery into the goal area by Snedden found R. Weir unmarked, yet the stand-in keeper made a commendable save, denying Bo’ness from extending their lead.

With positional alterations between Robertson and Weir, a lively spell of play saw Robertson manoeuvred to the right flank. A splendid showcase of footwork and quick manoeuvring from Shanks led to a tantalising ball across the goal to Robertson, whose shot narrowly missed the target.

A defensive clearance created an opportunity, with the ball dropping to Snedden, who attempted a spectacular volley, unfortunately soaring over the bar. At the 23-minute mark, Edinburgh came close to equalizing as their striker shrugged off Woodburn, but a valiant run from Snedden into the box derailed the attempt, steering the ball wide.

Five minutes later, Bo’ness surged further ahead as Mitchell initiated a low pass into the box, enabling M. Weir to elegantly guide a left-footed shot from close range, securing the second goal.

Edinburgh College was inches away from a comeback when their forward had an acre of space and fired from 18 yards, only to see the ball smack the outside of the post. Back on the attack, Robertson glided down the left flank, delivering an exquisite pass to MacDonald at the far post, who had an easy tap-in, increasing the lead to 3-0 before the half-time whistle.

The second half witnessed Bo’ness asserting its dominance, creating one opportunity after another. Among the many chances, M. Weir’s audacious lob from 24 yards on the left wing was met by a fingertip save from the keeper, potentially preventing a goal-of-the-season contender.

MacDonald, who had earlier squandered a straightforward chance, found redemption when R. Weir, displaying selflessness, passed across the box to MacDonald, who elegantly side-footed the ball into the far corner, amplifying Bo’ness’s lead to 4-0 and his second of the game.

Robertson then secured his brace with a magnificent header, outmanoeuvring the defender before launching a low right-footed shot home, leaving the fans in raptures.

The 76th minute saw Bo’ness executing the first of their strategic substitutions. MacDonald made way for Simpson to offer defensive exposure while Mitchell was propelled forward. Minutes later, Bo’ness extended their lead to 6-0 with a scintillating hat-trick goal from Robertson. An ingenious play from R. Weir, who held up the play in the box, provided a precise pass to Robertson, whose accurate strike found the net.

The management seized the moment, making three substitutions in the 80th minute. M. Weir, Snedden, and Robertson were replaced by Ogilvie and Irvine, offering the promising under-20s Joel Sneddon and Blair Lenathen their first senior team exposure. As the rain intensified, the match drew to a close, with a R. Weir’s effort deflected high over the bar.

In the dying moments of the match at the 91st minute, Mitchell took possession and calmly placed a left foot shot from the edge of the D into the keeper’s far left corner, culminating in a dazzling finish and a comprehensive 7-0 score-line.

Despite R. Weir’s yearning for a personal goal, his integral contributions in and around the Edinburgh box in the second half were unmissable. The young substitutes seamlessly integrated into the senior team, signifying a bright future for Bo’ness.

In this high-scoring match, Bo’ness once again underlined their domineering home record, averaging an impressive 5.5 goals per match across all competitions.

The high tempo clash at Newtown Park encapsulated Bo’ness’s might and tactical flair, fostering optimism and showcasing their unwavering spirit in the pursuit of another league victory.

Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 7 – 0 Edinburgh College
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 11