Tweeddale Rovers 3

West Barns Star 2

TWEEDDALE came into this tie attempting to revive the early season form that they had lost in the last few matches away from home.

A fast paced opening ten minutes saw previously undefeated West Barns race into a 2-0 lead with Tweeddale’s defence struggling to cope.

A disallowed goal for offside was the turning point of the match as it could have given the visitors a 3-0 lead inside the opening quarter of an hour.

But Tweeddale worked their way back into the world.

A corner delivered by Latto, was cleared only as far as the penalty spot where McDonald met it with a low drive through the cluster of bodies and through the keeper's legs.

A similar scenario got Tweeddale level.

This time the defence’s clearance reached Robertson, whose shot was half blocked by the defender and fell kindly to Meikle at the back post to square things up.

And the clock had still to reach the 20 minute mark.

The game became more of a battle as half time approached.

And West Barns had to substitute their centre half as he walked a fine line after being booked for constant fouls on the Tweeddale strikers.

But home keeper Michael still had to make a few good saves before the interval to keep his team level.

Both teams continued to attack at every opportunity after the break with the woodwork of both goals being struck.

With ten minutes remaining Rovers finally edged in front.

A freekick from Latto was met by a glancing header from Meikle which left the keeper with no chance.

Tweeddale defended resolutely as eight minutes stoppage time was added on due to injuries.

And there was still time for Star to be reduced to ten men after a defender kicked out at Robertson.

The game was won by hard work although Tweeddale deserved to progress to the third round of the South Cup.

Tweeddale Rovers: Micheal, Findlay, Moffat, Thomson, Macleod, Evans, Meikle, J.Robertson, Latto, M.Robertson & McDonald. Subs: Colin, McNaughton, Imlah