Peebles Rovers 1

Tynecastle 0

Neil Hobson at Whitestone Park

THE last time a competitive match was played at Whitestone Park was December 19 last year.

A nightmarish slog of constant rain ensured many of the Rovers games were postponed.

But it was to be a happy homecoming for John O’Hara’s men with Peebles making an explosive return to action for a deserved 1-0 victory against a stylish Tynecastle outfit last weekend.

The first half was a fascinating contest with the practicality and strength of Peebles pitched against the technically proficient Tynecastle team.

Jay Darling and Stephen Anderson swiftly imposed themselves in midfield for Peebles, making them an effective shield against nippy Tynecastle players such as Ryan Malcolm and Robbie McIntyre.

Although, with Peebles playing most of the game with a solid four across the back, Tynecastle rarely showed the grit required to break down the defence.

This turned out to be a recurring theme throughout the game and for all their ability, this proved to be a case where their bark was far greater than their bite.

Peebles' early chances came mostly through Paul Murray and Scott Sutherland, whose impressive link up play proved to be a real thorn in the maroon men’s side all afternoon.

Peebles had numerous chances to go ahead, but a solid performance from Tynecastle keeper, Craig Cockburn, kept it level.

Even though they presumably left their shooting boots in the dressing room, the Edinburgh side were remarkably quick on the break and played at a speed that would have left Usain Bolt gasping for breath. No one epitomised this more than Ryan Malcolm whose tireless running kept the Peebles defence frosty.

He ultimately became his side’s most prolific attacking threat, most notably shown in the 40th minute where he launched a sizzling free kick at Peebles goalkeeper, Darren Walker.

The second half transpired to be a different story.

Although the attacking quality from both teams didn’t stop, the game was somewhat spoiled by the referee, Paul Hanlon, and his irritating policy of dishing out yellow cards like confetti at the slightest provocation.

Eventually, after numerous chances, the breakthrough finally came on the 52nd minute after a goalmouth tangle resulted in the ball flying up before landing at the feet of Jay Darling.

He needed no invitation and, as cool as a cucumber, smashed a superb effort into the top left hand corner from just outside the box.

Peebles didn’t let up after that and continued to apply pressure throughout the first half. The plaudits should go to the Rover’s fullbacks, Kenny Monro and Danny McAleavy, whose hard and fearless tackling ensured that the Rovers were virtually impregnable.

Ultimately, Tynecastle just couldn’t find the goals whilst Peebles walk away with a well-earned and much needed three points.

Peebles boss John O’Hara said: “It’s great to get back playing today against a good Tynecastle side.

"I’m glad we got the result; it was down to sheer hard work from us and I’m proud of all the boys.”

Peebles' next game is the first round tie of the King Cup against Burntisland Shipyard tomorrow at Whitestone Park. Kick-off is 2.30pm