East Kilbride 5

Vale of Leithen 1

By Callum Hodgson

at K Park

THREE late goals put Vale of Leithen to the sword at title favourites East Kilbride on Saturday.

Chris Anderson's side were still well in the game with 13 minutes to go, before Ross McNeil bagged a brace and Sean Winter struck on 87 minutes.

But there could be no complaints with the effort and commitment shown by the Innerleithen side throughout the afternoon.

The visitors were dealt a blow just before kick off when first choice goalkeeper Ross Gilpin had to be swapped by Kieran Beveridge due to a sickness bug.

But the 24-year-old replacement put on a fantastic display – making a number of fine saves.

Kilby, however, started the game the brightest and took the lead on 13 minutes when Michael Anderson threaded through to Paul Woods who slotted home.

But they were only in front for 60 seconds.

Sean Stewart was charging down a through ball when goalkeeper Matthew McGinley clashed with one of his defenders.

The 22-year-old managed to get in behind to pass the ball into the open goal.

However the home side retook the lead on 25 minutes.

Jamie Longworth floated a wonderful cross in towards Woods who headed past Beveridge for his second of the game.

The Vale were put under a bit of pressure but stood strong at the back.

Stewart also continued to cause problems with his quick movement.

That coupled with some good goalkeeping from Beveridge and some poor finishing by Kilby meant the visitors were still in the game and were starting to make the odd chance in search of the equaliser.

However, as was the case last week against Spartans, Anderson's side was hit with two goals in two minutes.

In the 77th minute a poor clearance was intercepted and Woods passed to McNeil who hammered home from 25 yards.

And it was 4-1 when Winter broke clear and picked out McNeil again, who claimed his second.

But the Vale still a couple of chances to reduce the lead, however were hit again just three minutes from the end.

Craig Malcolm's shot bounced off the post, but there was Winter to tap intot the goal.

Vale of Leithen: K Beveridge, A Imlah, R Brady, A Smith, P Dickson, J Blaikie, B Raiker, S Wilson, S Stewart, R Currie, L Smith