League: East of Scotland Second Division
Ormiston Primrose v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
In the penultimate fixture of the season, Bo’ness Athletic secured a critical three points with a resounding 4-0 away victory over Ormiston, ensuring their hosts’ relegation to Division 3. Bo’ness, a point clear at the top of the table going into this crucial match, were determined to put the previous week’s defeat to Thornton Hibs behind them and they did so in emphatic fashion, courtesy of a brace from Cunningham and goals from MacDonald and Godwin.
The opening 25 minutes were fraught with tension for Bo’ness, who dominated possession but struggled to convert their early pressure into goals. With less than three minutes on the clock, Heaver delivered a dangerous cross from the left flank, met by Cunningham’s glancing header which crashed off the far post, heightening the anxiety among the travelling supporters.
It took until the 27th minute for Bo’ness to break the deadlock, much to the relief of their fans. A slick move saw Heaver threading a pass to MacDonald, who surged into the box, outpaced his marker to reach the byline, and squared the ball for Cunningham to side-foot home from close range.
Three minutes later, Heaver nearly doubled the lead. Collecting a long ball from Paterson, he cut inside across the edge of the penalty area and unleashed a low drive that the Ormiston keeper did well to parry wide. Moments after, Bo’ness won a free-kick just outside the 18-yard box. Ogilvie played it short to Heaver, whose thunderous strike rattled the crossbar and bounced clear.
Ormiston responded with a free-kick of their own. Their number eight curled a superb effort over the wall, but Wilson, alert in the Bo’ness goal, pulled off a magnificent save, diving to his right to keep the visitors ahead.
Just before the interval, Mitchell battled to win a 50-50 challenge deep in Ormiston territory and delivered a cross-cum-shot that forced the home keeper to tip over the bar, ensuring Bo’ness went into the break with their slender lead intact.
The second half began with a substitution for Bo’ness, as Cameron made way for Godwin, who was deployed on the right wing and quickly made his presence felt. Ten minutes after the restart, Cunningham scored his second of the afternoon, latching onto MacDonald’s pinpoint cross to glance a shot past the despairing dive of the Ormiston keeper.
Cunningham came close to completing his hat-trick a few minutes later, skillfully turning two defenders inside the box before seeing his shot brilliantly saved. In the 70th minute, it was Godwin’s turn to test the Ormiston keeper, driving into the box and unleashing a low shot that was well saved.
A minute later, Bo’ness were awarded a penalty. Heaver controlled a diagonal ball on the edge of the box and played a first-time pass to Cunningham, who was upended by a clumsy challenge, leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot. MacDonald stepped up and smashed a high penalty into the net, making it 3-0, with the keeper guessing correctly but unable to reach it.
With the result seemingly secure, Bo’ness made a trio of substitutions: Weir replaced Heaver, Connolly came on for Snedden, and Sneddon substituted MacDonald.
The goal of the match came in the 83rd minute from the impressive Godwin. He danced past several Ormiston defenders down the right before losing the ball momentarily, regaining possession, and curling a stunning left-footed shot into the far corner, a strike no goalkeeper could have saved.
As the final whistle approached, further chances fell to Cunningham and Shanks, but the scoreline remained 4-0, a comprehensive victory for Bo’ness.
The win keeps Bo’ness in pole position, with Thornton Hibs breathing down their necks, just a point behind. With only one match remaining, a home game against Dalkeith Thistle next Saturday, Bo’ness are on the brink of a memorable season. One final push is all that stands between them and the title.
Final Score: Ormiston Primrose 0 – 4 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 29
Thornton Hibs v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness Athletic had their aspirations of clinching the league title dealt a blow as they succumbed to a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Thornton Hibs in a riveting encounter at Thornton Park. The loss narrows the gap at the top to a solitary point with just two fixtures remaining for each side, setting the stage for a thrilling climax to determine the champions of the E.O.S. Second Division.
The visitors entered the fray with a chance to seize the league crown, necessitating a victory. However, despite an early breakthrough courtesy of MacDonald, who capitalised on a spilled shot from Ogilvie to open the scoring, Bo’ness found themselves pegged back swiftly by an incisive Thornton attack. A sublime finish from the home side’s No. 10 restored parity just moments after MacDonald’s opener, setting the tone for a pulsating encounter.
Bo’ness saw a goal disallowed shortly thereafter, as Heaver’s incisive pass found Cunningham, only for the linesman’s flag to thwart their celebrations. Thornton then seized the initiative, taking a 2-1 lead through a composed finish from their No. 10, capitalising on a defensive mix-up . It looked an easy clearance for Paterson but Currid came rushing out to clear and ended in a 50/50 tackle which the Thornton no.10 won and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net.
It was the end of the match for Currid as he picked up an ankle injury in the challenge and Substitute Wilson came on to take his place.
The visitors, however, showcased their resilience, drawing level before the interval courtesy of a stunning strike from Heaver. His clinical finish breathed new life into Bo’ness’s pursuit of victory, setting the stage for a captivating second half.
Despite Bo’ness’s best efforts, Thornton regained the lead in the 65th minute, with their prolific No. 10 completing a well-deserved hat-trick to put his side ahead once more. The setback prompted Bo’ness to introduce substitute winger Godwin in a bid to bolster their attacking prowess, but their hopes were dashed as Thornton extended their advantage with a well-worked goal, leaving Bo’ness with a mountain to climb.
A late penalty awarded to Bo’ness offered a glimmer of hope, but Cunningham’s effort lacked conviction, allowing the Thornton keeper to make a comfortable save and preserve his side’s lead. As the final whistle blew, Bo’ness found themselves on the wrong end of the score-line for the second time against Thornton Hibs this season.
Both teams have already secured promotion, but with the title race intensifying, Bo’ness will be eager to bounce back from this setback and maintain their slender advantage at the top. The injury to Currid is a cause for concern, but the assured performance of substitute Wilson provides a silver lining amidst the disappointment, offering hope to the Bo’ness faithful as the season reaches its climax.
Final Score: Thornton Hibs 4 – 2 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 28
Edinburgh United v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness demonstrated their dominance in emphatic fashion on Tuesday night, securing a resounding 7-0 victory over bottom-of-the-table Edinburgh United in a match brimming with attacking prowess and clinical finishing. With a brace from Heaver, a hat-trick from MacDonald, and additional strikes from Cunningham and Ogilvie, Bo’ness left no doubt as to their superiority on the field, dispatching their opponents with ease.
The hosts wasted no time in asserting their authority, with Heaver opening the scoring after just one minute of play. MacDonald’s deft layoff found Heaver prowling down the left flank, and the winger displayed remarkable pace and precision to round the keeper and calmly slot the ball into the empty net, setting the tone for Bo’ness’s dominant display.
Despite the early setback, Edinburgh showed glimpses of promise, with an opportunity to pull one back arising in the 18th minute. A lofted ball over the top had Currid scrambling off his line, only for Edinburgh’s No. 11 to squander the chance with a lack of composure, failing to capitalise on the opportunity presented to him.
Bo’ness extended their lead in the 23rd minute, courtesy of a sublime display of teamwork and finishing. Heaver once again wreaked havoc down the left flank, delivering a pinpoint cross to Cunningham, who dispatched a clinical volley into the top corner, leaving the Edinburgh goalkeeper with no chance.
The hosts continued to pile on the pressure, with MacDonald adding his name to the scoresheet shortly after. Cunningham’s incisive pass found Heaver in space once more, and although his initial effort was blocked by the keeper, MacDonald was on hand to pounce on the rebound and extend Bo’ness’s lead to three goals.
Heaver came agonisingly close to adding his name to the scoresheet with a thunderous strike that rattled the far post, as Bo’ness threatened to run riot before the interval. However, it was MacDonald who provided the finishing touch for Bo’ness’s fourth goal, rising to nod the ball home after a goalmouth scramble.
As the second half commenced, Bo’ness showed no signs of relenting, with Heaver, Cunningham, and Ogilvie all going close in the opening exchanges. MacDonald completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, capping off a flowing move with a composed finish to put Bo’ness 5-0 ahead.
Five minutes later, Bo’ness further asserted their dominance, with Heaver turning provider once more to set up Ogilvie for a simple tap-in, much to the dismay of the Edinburgh defence.
Bo’ness made a flurry of substitutions to see out the game, with Cameron and Weir entering the fray in place of Woodburn and Snedden.
Heaver then produced a moment of individual brilliance, lashing home a stunning half-volley from a corner kick to put the result beyond doubt.
With victory secured, the remaining substitutes were also given a run-out, as Godwin, Connolly, and Sneddon replaced Ogilvie, MacDonald, and Heaver, respectively.
As the final whistle blew, Bo’ness celebrated a comprehensive victory, reaffirming their credentials as title contenders. The result served as a statement of intent from Bo’ness, who remain firmly on course to achieve their season objectives.
Final Score: Edinburgh United 0 – 7 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 27
Bo’ness Athletic v Burntisland Shipyard (League)
In a thrilling encounter amidst their title pursuit, Bo’ness edged closer to their championship aspirations in the East of Scotland Second Division, yet the relentless pursuit by Thornton Hibs looms, promising a nail-biting finale. Securing a crucial three points, Bo’ness showcased their talents with a stunning strike from Heaver, complemented by Cunningham’s prolific form as he notched an impressive four goals.
From the onset, Bo’ness asserted their dominance in ideal playing conditions. Within the first minute, Heaver threatened with a menacing cross, only to be denied by a timely intervention from Ogilvie and Burntisland’s No. 4, deflecting the shot wide. The momentum continued as Woodburn orchestrated a sublime lofted pass to find Cunningham, whose subsequent cross to MacDonald saw a thunderous strike rattling the far post.
Despite early pressure, Bo’ness faced an unexpected setback in the 23rd minute when Burntisland seized the lead against the run of play. A well-executed free kick found its way to Burntisland’s No. 2, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the stand-in keeper, Wilson. Undeterred, Bo’ness relentlessly pursued an equalizer, with MacDonald narrowly missing the mark from close range.
The pendulum swung in Bo’ness’s favour as half time approached, with Cunningham spearheading the offensive charge. Despite several promising opportunities, including a remarkable cross from Heaver, Bo’ness found themselves trailing at Newtown Park, a scenario unfamiliar to their title aspirations.
However, Bo’ness wasted no time in the second half, with Cunningham’s audacious bicycle kick setting the tone for their resurgence. Minutes later, Heaver restored parity with a solo effort, showcasing sublime skill and composure to beat the keeper at his near post, reigniting Bo’ness’s momentum.
The 56th minute saw Cameron leave the field and replaced by Michael Weir in the first of the Bo’ness substitutions
Bo’ness’s ascendancy was cemented in the 71st minute when Snedden orchestrated a clinical through ball, allowing Heaver to calmly assist Cunningham for his first goal of the match. A subsequent penalty awarded to Bo’ness further extended their lead, with Cunningham clinically converting to make it 3-1.
Despite Burntisland’s sporadic attempts, including a notable double save from Wilson, Bo’ness remained resolute in defence. A double substitution injected fresh energy into Bo’ness’s line-up, with MacKay and Godwin contributing to the proceedings with MacDonald and Ogilvie making way.
As the final whistle beckoned, Cunningham further embellished his stellar performance with a well-deserved hat-trick, much to the dismay of Burntisland’s management. Connolly was substituted on for the final moments of the game with Heaver going off to great applause, then a late penalty saw Cunningham sealing his fourth goal of the match, epitomizing Bo’ness’s dominance on the field.
With the season drawing to a close and only four games remaining, Bo’ness stands poised to achieve their milestone of breaking the 100-league goal mark. Cunningham’s remarkable feat of scoring his fourth consecutive league hat-trick, marking his sixth in the last seven matches across all competitions, underscores Bo’ness’s unwavering determination and ambition as they march towards their ultimate goal.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 5 – 1 Burntisland Shipyard
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 26
Easthouses Lily v Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness once again demonstrated their mettle on the road with a resounding triumph over Easthouses Lily, securing a vital three points. A stellar performance, spearheaded by MacDonald’s clinical strike and a remarkable quadruple from Cunningham, saw Bo’ness return home triumphant.
The match unfolded as a tale of two halves, with both sides fiercely contesting the midfield and creating promising opportunities. Early on, Weir unleashed a deflected shot that sailed tantalisingly over the crossbar, while Robertson tested the keeper with a close-range effort, expertly parried wide. However, it wasn’t until the 43rd minute that the deadlock was shattered. A precise long throw from Robertson found Cunningham lurking in the box, who adeptly converted to put Bo’ness ahead.
As halftime came, tactical substitutions saw Robertson and Cameron replaced by Heaver and Paterson, signaling Bo’ness’ strategic adaptability.
The second half witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum as Easthouses mounted a spirited comeback. Despite Ogilvie’s narrowly missed header, Easthouses found their equaliser just two minutes into the half. A swift attacking move down the right flank culminated in a low cross, catching the Bo’ness defence off guard as Easthouses’ No. 3 capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home.
Buoyed by their equaliser, Easthouses swiftly seized the lead with a sublime lofted chip from their No. 9, leaving Currid stranded and the Bo’ness faithful stunned.
Undeterred, Bo’ness quickly responded, restoring parity with a fortuitous goal from Cunningham following MacDonald’s incisive pass that the keeper failed to handle. This injection of confidence spurred Bo’ness on, as they relentlessly pressed forward, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Weir’s header narrowly missed the mark, while Heaver tested the keeper from range.
In a moment of brilliance, MacDonald reclaimed the lead for Bo’ness with a remarkable chip over a sea of Easthouses defenders, leaving the keeper helpless.
Cunningham continued to torment the Easthouses defence, capping off a sensational performance with two sublime finishes, the latter assisted by Heaver’s selfless play.
With victory secured, Bo’ness made further substitutions, with Godwin entering the fray for Weir and Connolly replacing MacDonald, to see out the final moments of the match.
Bo’ness’ triumph in the Midlothian heartlands epitomized their resilience and hunger for success. Cunningham’s clinical display upfront underscored his prowess as a prolific striker, a beacon of hope for Bo’ness as they strive for glory in the remainder of the season.
Final Score: Easthouses Lily 1 – 5 Bo’ness Athletic
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 25
Bo’ness Athletic v Kennoway Star Hearts (League)
Bo’ness continued their commanding march atop the league standings with a resounding triumph over Kennoway Star Hearts, securing a decisive three points and asserting their dominance with a seven-goal spectacle. In a second-half exhibition of prowess, they systematically dismantled their opponents, affirming their quest for consecutive league titles, with the irrepressible Cunningham once again stealing the limelight with a scintillating hat-trick.
The encounter ignited with MacDonald orchestrating the game’s first opportunity, his incursion into the box foiled by a desperate defensive intervention, leaving his effort to trickle wide of the post. Undeterred, MacDonald remained in the thick of the action, this time connecting with a precision delivery from Robertson, only to see his sliding attempt veer wide, denying Bo’ness an early advantage.
The deadlock shattered in the 22nd minute, as a deft through ball from Robertson set in motion a sequence that culminated in Snedden calmly slotting home following a fortuitous deflection off the keeper and a scrambling defender, granting Bo’ness a deserved lead.
Minutes later, Cunningham unleashed a lofted strike from distance, his audacious effort thwarted by the gusty winds as it agonizingly kissed the crossbar. However, Cunningham swiftly atoned for his near miss, capitalizing on Weir’s precise feed to double Bo’ness’ advantage with a trademark finish just before the interval.
Kennoway, unwilling to capitulate, conjured a moment of brilliance on the stroke of half-time, as their talismanic no.9 unleashed a thunderous free-kick, crashing against the woodwork before nestling into the net, igniting hopes of a spirited comeback.
The second half witnessed Bo’ness elevating their performance to another level, as they ruthlessly exploited their opponent’s vulnerabilities, notching three goals in a devastating 12-minute onslaught. Weir orchestrated the onslaught, delivering a deft pass into the path of Cunningham, who coolly dispatched his second of the afternoon.
Ogilvie then showcased his vision and execution, launching a quick free-kick that instigated a fluid attacking move to MacDonald, culminating in Weir expertly steering the ball home to extend Bo’ness’ advantage. Robertson further compounded Kennoway’s misery, winning and converting a penalty with aplomb, effectively extinguishing any flickering hopes of a revival.
As the game progressed, Bo’ness exhibited their depth and tactical acumen, executing astute substitutions to maintain their stranglehold on proceedings. Kennoway, however, salvaged a semblance of pride with a late strike, but it proved inconsequential as Bo’ness continued to assert their dominance.
In the dying embers of the contest, a lapse in Kennoway’s concentration provided MacDonald with an opportunity to pounce, setting up Duncan for Bo’ness’ sixth goal. Cunningham then put the finishing touches on a masterful display, completing his hat-trick with a clinical finish, epitomizing Bo’ness’ unyielding pursuit of excellence.
As the final whistle sounded, Bo’ness emerged victorious, reaffirming their status as the team to beat in the league. With each passing fixture, they edge closer to their goal, and today’s triumph serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to success.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 2 – 1 Kennoway Star Hearts
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 24
Coldstream V Bo’ness Athletic (League)
Bo’ness Athletic v Armadale Thistle (League)
Bo’ness strengthened their grip on the top spot by edging past Armadale Thistle in a tense encounter on Saturday, securing a vital 2-1 triumph. The gusty winds played a pivotal role, particularly favouring the home side in the opening half. Notably, a pair of sensational strikes from Heaver and Cunningham in this period sealed the win in what proved to be a gritty battle against the resilient Armadale outfit.
The momentum was evident from the outset, with Bo’ness launching their first attempt just three minutes into the match. A lengthy throw-in from the left flank found its way into the Armadale box, where Heaver latched onto a clearance, unleashing a thunderous effort only to be denied by a routine save from the opposition keeper.
The relentless pressure continued as MacDonald showcased bravery, reclaiming possession on the touchline. A swift exchange with Cunningham saw MacDonald surge past Armadale’s defence, but his subsequent attempt failed to trouble the keeper. Nonetheless, Bo’ness persisted, with Ogilvie delivering a teasing cross towards Cunningham, narrowly missing the mark.
A moment of brilliance arrived when Cameron’s long throw found Heaver, who mesmerisingly evaded five Armadale players before his shot lacked the desired power, rolling wide of the post. Bo’ness kept pushing, with Robertson’s deft back-heeled pass setting up Heaver for another testing effort, gathered by the Armadale keeper.
In the 17th minute, Bo’ness came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock. Ogilvie intercepted a loose pass, driving forward and supplying Cunningham with a pinpoint cross, only for the Armadale keeper to produce a stunning diving save to deny Ogilvie’s subsequent header.
However, Bo’ness eventually found their breakthrough just a minute later. From a short corner, Snedden’s delivery was initially cleared but fell invitingly to Heaver on the edge of the box. With conviction, Heaver unleashed a ferocious half-volley, leaving the keeper rooted to the spot as the ball nestled into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.
As the first half progressed, Bo’ness continued to assert their dominance, doubling their lead in the 35th minute. Paterson’s tenacity in midfield won possession, allowing Robertson to release Heaver down the left. Heaver’s precise cross found Cunningham, who soared above the defence to nod home, marking his second consecutive headed goal.
Approaching halftime, Robertson tested the Armadale keeper once more with a fierce strike, albeit comfortably gathered.
The second half saw Armadale seize the initiative, capitalising on the wind advantage. Despite both sides struggling to create clear-cut opportunities, Bo’ness opted for four substitutions to inject fresh impetus into their gameplay.
In the 64th minute, Armadale clawed their way back into contention. A well-worked move culminated in a low shot deflecting off Paterson and sneaking past the Bo’ness keeper at the near post, breathing new life into the contest.
A nervy spell ensued for Bo’ness, as Armadale pressed for an equaliser. However, resolute defending and a few missed opportunities from Armadale saw Bo’ness weather the storm, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory.
The result sees Bo’ness extend their lead at the top, with Thornton Hibs hot on their heels, displacing Armadale Thistle from second place. With the season entering its decisive phase, Bo’ness must maintain their winning momentum to fend off their challengers and clinch the coveted title. Today’s triumph epitomises their determination to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 2 – 1 Armadale Thistle
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 22
Bo’ness Athletic v Edinburgh United (League)
In a rescheduled fixture, Bo’ness extended their commanding lead at the summit of the table in emphatic fashion, orchestrating a resounding 6-0 thrashing of Edinburgh United. A brace apiece for Cunningham and Ogilvie, supplemented by strikes from Robertson and Weir, propelled Bo’ness to an overwhelming victory, a result that, with a touch more fortune, could have seen a larger scoreline.
The evening kicked off with Bo’ness immediately asserting their dominance. A mere two minutes into the clash, a lofted ball found its way to Ogilvie, who adeptly chipped the onrushing goalkeeper from just beyond the six-yard box, setting the tone for the hosts. Moments later, MacDonald unleashed a thunderous effort from the edge of the 18-yard box, only to be denied by the woodwork, as his strike ricocheted off the right-hand post.
In a scene reminiscent of the opener, Cunningham found himself through on goal shortly thereafter, yet his attempted lob failed to trouble the vigilant goalkeeper, who gathered the ball comfortably. However, it was Edinburgh who nearly levelled proceedings in the 10th minute, with their No. 7 finding space between Bo’ness’ centre-backs, forcing Currid into a spectacular diving save to preserve his side’s clean sheet.
The encounter continued at a frenetic pace, with MacDonald and Heaver both going close for Bo’ness in quick succession. However, it was Robertson who doubled Bo’ness’ advantage in the 35th minute, showcasing exquisite control before calmly slotting the ball past the advancing keeper. Despite MacDonald’s eagerness to get on the scoresheet, his subsequent attempt sailed harmlessly over the crossbar.
As the second half commenced, Bo’ness wasted little time in asserting their dominance once more. Cunningham rose highest from a corner to nod home Bo’ness’ third, effectively putting the result beyond doubt. Edinburgh, however, found themselves denied twice within a second, as appeals for a penalty fell on deaf ears, as twice the ball was deflected off Woodburn, but with arms in a natural position the referee gave nothing.
Ogilvie came agonizingly close to adding to his tally in the 51st minute, rattling the woodwork with a curling effort, before finally finding the net once again, courtesy of MacDonald’s deft assist. Bo’ness then opted for a double substitution in the 65th minute, with Duncan and Weir entering the fray, the latter making an instant impact by adding his name to the scoresheet shortly thereafter.
The introduction of young talent in Connolly injected further energy into Bo’ness’ attack, with the promising prospect showcasing glimpses of his potential. With Heaver wreaking havoc down the right flank, Cunningham completed his brace with a clinical finish from close range, as Bo’ness continued to pile on the pressure.
Despite numerous opportunities to extend their lead, including Cunningham’s near misses and Connolly’s spirited attempts, Bo’ness ultimately settled for a comprehensive 6-0 victory, securing yet another clean sheet for the ever-alert Currid between the posts. From the outset, Bo’ness appeared in control, with Cunningham’s early strike setting the tone for a dominant performance, further solidifying their pursuit of the 2nd Division title.
Final Score: Bo’ness Athletic 6 – 0 Edinburgh United
The East of Scotland Second Division League Match No. 21
