AFTER a disappointing 4-1 away defeat to Lochore Welfare on Saturday, Vale of Leithen were back in action on Wednesday night against fellow EoS First Division side Dunipace in the second round of the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup.

Due to work and other commitments, Vale manager Ian Flynn only had 13-players to choose from and the home side started on the front foot, creating a couple of early chances.

Then just before the break Vale’s Craig Brydon and Cammy Smith linked up well but Smith hit the side netting with his effort.

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Shortly after the restart Dean Burgess tested keeper Zander Gilchrist with an effort from just inside the area.

Moments later the home side almost took the lead when Aaron Whitelaw’s shot struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced on the line before being cleared.

Vale’s Chris Malcolm then produced a superb save to deny Joe McGuckin as the home side continued to mount attacks.

At the other end Dean Burgess fired just over and with two minutes remaining Owen Bryce’s angled shot flew inches over and the game went into extra time.

Then, nine minutes into extra time Vale took the lead with a tremendous 20-yard strike from Bryce which flew into the top corner.

However just when it looked as though Vale would hold on for the win Logan Downie equalised for the home side.

And in the dying minutes a brilliant goal line clearance from Callum Mitchell and then a fingertip save from Malcolm from the follow up ensured the game finished all square.

Dunipace won the resultant penalty shootout 4-2 with Ross Aitken and Bryce scoring for Vale.

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Vale boss Ian Flynn said: “We led a charmed life at times but we were always in the game and I thought we played well.

“Dunipace are a good side and are always well organised and they had the majority of the ball but our guys put in an incredible shift.

“I only had 13-players available so had two defenders on the bench and I really felt for the lads.

“But we are not far away and have a chance to pick up our first points on Saturday at home to Oakley United who have lost their first three games.

“And I genuinely think that if we can get our first win then we could follow it up with another.

"I can feel this group coming together and there is a real camaraderie building with the banter flowing.

“We are not far away and I’m hoping to add to the squad this week.”