7th April 2009
Competition - League
Versus - BFC Linlithgow
Won 5-0
The Diamonds continued their quest for promotion against a much improved BFC side who had already taken points of the boys this season in a pulsating 4-4 encounter T Linlithgow earlier in the season. The Diamonds started out the stronger of the two and had most of the early pressure , missing a couple of chances before Ricky got on the score sheet with a well placed shot into the bottom corner of the net. With 10 minutes gone, Ricky extended the lead when some hesitancy in the BFC defence allowed him to burst through a fire home from close range. The Diamonds then had a couple of good chances to increase the lead, but were denied by two good saves from the makeshift BFC keeper. This however only delayed the inevitable when Colin S fired an unstoppable shot home from the edge of the box. At this point the Diamonds were playing some good football and controlling the midfield and always looking likely to add to their lead. It was therefore no surprise when Ricky grabbed a hat-trick and proceeded to add a fifth near half time. A great first half performance by the boys and BFC walked off a little shell shocked as the half time whistle blew.
Half Time Diamonds 5 BFC 0
The Diamonds resumed the second half with a spring in their step, looking to add to their goal tally and put this game to bed early. Well were they in for a major shock! The BFC coaches must have given their lads some real words of inspiration during the half time team talk as they came out and dominated the early stages of the second half. Within two minutes of the restart the Diamonds Keeper Cameron and the defence had to make a couple of desperate clearances to prevent BFC from pulling a goal back. This theme continued throughout the half as BFC roared forward time after time only to be foiled, by some good defending, good goalkeeping and some poor finishing. The Diamonds never really got going in the second half, although they did create an miss a number of chances as well, but not as many as BFC. Great credit must go to the boys from BFC who showed that they can compete with the top teams in the B Division and with the addition of a player or two and getting some consistency to their play they could be a force to be reckoned with next season. A good contest despite the one sided looking score line, played in a great spirit by both teams and well refereed. The Diamonds boys and coaches would like to offer our best wishes to all at BFC for the rest of the season.
5th April 2009
Competition - League
Versus - Polbeth Utd. Colts
Won 5-2
The Diamonds visited bottom of the table Polbeth United Colts, looking for a victory to consolidate their hold on second place. On a beautiful but windy Sunday morning, the depleted Diamonds squad were warned not to underestimate their opponents otherwise points could be easily dropped. Playing into the stiff breeze and up the slope, the Diamonds were forced onto the defensive right from the start and Polbeth looked to make good use of the conditions. Forcing a number of corners and having a long throw specialist in place they bombarded the Diamonds box with high balls. Fortunately for the Diamonds, makeshift centre half Mark, and goalkeeper Cameron had complete command of this ariel battle and Polbeth were unable to create any clear cut chances. Despite being pinned back in their own half, the Diamonds always looked menacing on the break, and in truth looked the more likely to score, with Ryan S, Colin S and Nick all looking dangerous. Paul was in the midfield pulling all the strings. It was therefore no surprise when the Diamonds took the lead midway through the first half. Paul played a great through ball to Colin S, who easily beat the offside trap. Showing great composure as he sprinted through on goal, and slotted the ball under the advancing keeper. Minutes later the Diamonds appeared to have a stonewall penalty claim turned down when Ryan S was bundled over as he sped through on goal, but the referee waived play on. The Diamonds then had an effort cleared off the line after the Polbeth keeper spilled a cross from Nick. With 10 minutes to half-time, the Diamonds had a narrow escape, when a clearance was blocked by the Polbeth striker who sped through on goal. Lacking the composure of Colin earlier in the half, he blazed his shot over from 20 yards. With half time approaching it looked like the Diamonds were cruising, having repulsed both the elements and Polbeth. However on the stroke of half time they conceded a very soft equaliser. A corner was swung in, which the keeper dropped, it was half scrambled clear, before Paul in trying to clear knocked it back into the danger area and from the resulting scramble Polbeth forced it over the line.
Half Time Polbeth 1 Diamonds 1
The Diamonds started slowly in the second half and were punished immediately when another comedy of errors in the defence allowed an Unmarked Polbeth player to have a simple tap in at the far post. This set the Diamonds back a little, and despite having the conditions in their favour failed to create much of note. About 10 minutes into the half they did regain the initiative and started to get the ball down and play some good football. Three great chances were created and missed, before Ricky fired a powerful low drive past the unsighted keeper into the net. After that it was all Diamonds, who again squandered a couple of great chances before Ricky raced through from midfield, drew the keeper and passed the ball into the net to make it 3-2. Having learned the lesson from the Boghall game a few weeks previous, there was no let up. Another stonewall penalty was not given after Paul was tripped inside the box – the referee deciding he was outside the box when the attempted tackle was made. With about 15 minutes remaining Ricky claimed his hat-trick when he headed in a great cross from Nick after some good play by Paul and Colin S. the diamonds had a further chance to extend their lead when Paul took a quick free kick to release Ryan S, but he shot wide. With 5 minutes remaining the Diamonds completed the scoring when Mark rose above everyone to head home a Colin S corner, to complete a fine individual performance. Polbeth stuck at it until the end, but the Diamonds held out comfortably until the end. A number of great individual performances from Colin B, Mark, Paul, Ryan K, Nick and Colin S. But man of the match had to be Ricky who coming on as a first half substitute, scored a hat trick and was outstanding in centre midfield.
29th March 2009
Competition - League
Versus - Murieston Reds
Won 4-3
The Diamonds faced a difficult game against 3rd placed Murieston on a bright sunny but windy day. With both sides knowing that a win would put them in second place, this game was always going to be tight with there being very little between the sides. The Diamonds were hampered by a number of late call offs and only 13 boys were available for selection. The coaches stressed that this game would be much harder than the first meeting when it was Murieston who could not raise a full team. Having won the toss, the Diamonds decided to play with the wind and got off to a flying start when Paul fired a 30 yard shot into the top corner after only two minutes. This really rocked Murieston and the Diamonds dominated much of the early play, pinning back Murieston into their own half. The Diamonds continued to look menacing and only some desperate and resolute defending kept the Diamonds out. However after 10 minutes, the Diamonds added a second when Ryan K was first to react when the Murie keeper could only parry a powerful shot. Taking his time and showing great composure Ryan picked his spot to put the Diamonds two up. After that the Diamonds lost their grip on the game as Murieston started to look more threatening on the break. Midway through the half they had a great chance to reduce the deficit, but blazed wide when through on goal. The Diamonds upped there efforts after this scare but were caught out, when Murieston broke swiftly. This time the striker made no mistake giving Cameron no chance with a powerful finish. Straight from the kick off the Diamonds pushed forward and almost immediately restored their lead, but Ryan S fired wide after being put through. With ten minutes left in the half the Diamonds did restore their two goal advantage and what a goal it was. Murieston gave away a cheap free kick about 40 yards out. Paul stepped forward and thundered an unstoppable rocket shot high into the roof of the net past a stunned Murieston keeper. Sensing that a two goal lead would not be enough when playing with the wind, the Diamonds went in search of a fourth goal and were rewarded right at the end of the half when a mistake by the keeper, allowed a shot from Paul to creep into the corner of the net.
Half Time Diamonds 4 Murieston Reds 1
With a comfortable lead to protect and playing into the strong wind, the Diamonds switched to a 4-5-1 formation in an attempt to combat the expected Murie onslaught. The second half started with Murieston pressing forward, and the Diamonds having to absorb some early pressure. The defence and the hard working midfield limited the threats posed to a couple of long range efforts which didn’t threaten Cameron’s goal and a couple of corners that were comfortably cleared. As the game progressed, the Diamonds began to look more and more comfortable, with neither side creating any real clear cut chances. Whilst Murieston still had the bulk of the play, the Diamonds continued to be menacing on the break with the hard working Ryan S being a constant threat. Midway through the half, Murieston managed to get a goal back, when Cameron could not hold a free kick and the Murieston forward pounced on the rebound to score. This lifted Murieston’s spirits and they began to press forward with renewed vigour and force the diamonds onto the defensive. Despite this, the Diamonds again looked in control of the situation, until they gave a way a penalty with around 8 minutes remaining. Cameron was unlucky not to save the well struck penalty after getting a full hand to it, put it had been struck with real power. From that point onwards, Murieston threw everything at the Diamonds. With around 3 minutes to play, they had a great chance to equalise but Cameron made a brilliant, brave save to deny Murieston. In the final minute, the Diamonds survived another scare, when after a scramble in the box; a shot from Murieston hit the outside of the post and went harmlessly by. In the end a great result for the Diamonds against a hard working Murieston side who never gave up. Outstanding performances from many of the boys, with special mention to Paul, who scored not one but two contenders for goal of the season. In the end though the ref’s man of the match went to Craig at left back who played as well as he has ever done in a Diamonds shirt. The Diamonds have now gone six games unbeaten in the league, stretching back until September 2008. Now we are at the business end of the season, the coaches have stressed that every league game is vital and that no-one should be underestimated.
22nd March 2009
Competition - League
Versus - Boghall
Won 6-0
The Diamonds returned to league duty on a very windy day, looking for revenge from a very painful cup exit three weeks earlier. Playing with the wind on a very bumpy and poor surface, the Diamonds were up for the contest straight from the start and pinned Boghall back into their own half straight from the kick off. After a couple of near misses, Colin S opened the scoring after only 5 minutes with a well placed shot into the bottom corner. Within 10 minutes the Diamonds were 2-0 up when Paul scored from the edge of the box after some good interchange play in the midfield. The Diamonds continued to dominate with Paul at the heart of most of the action and he had a hand in the third goal when the Boghall keeper could not hold his shot and Nick pounced on the rebound to slot home from 5 yards. A fourth goal followed shortly after and was a carbon copy of the third, when again an awkward cross shot was not held by the keeper and this time Mark was first to react and coolly slide the ball into the net. The Diamonds continued to make and miss chances, and Mark was denied a second when he was thwarted by a great save. This only delayed the inevitable and Paul added a fifth on the stroke of half time as the Diamonds went some way to avenge their earlier cup defeat.
Half Time Diamonds 5 Boghall 0
Playing into the wind, the second half was always going to be tighter, with the coaches warning the boys about complacency. A couple of early goals for Boghall could easily change the nature of the game. To counteract the wind, the Diamonds reverted to a 4-5-1 formation and it paid dividends. After weathering an initial onslaught from Boghall, the Diamonds began to get back into the game. Despite most of the play being in the Diamonds half, Cameron in goal was rarely troubled. Content to soak up the pressure, the Diamonds began to look menacing on the break and they had a great chance to extend their lead when Paul was tripped in the box, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot. After picking himself up and dusting himself down, Paul stride forward and blasted the penalty over the bar. A let off for Boghall, but again it proved to be short lived, when Colin S was put through by Paul and fired home from just inside the box. Thereafter, the Diamonds created and squandered a number of chances to extend their lead as Boghall pushed forward looking for a consolation goal. Defensively the Diamonds remained strong and comfortably kept a clean sheet. A very good team performance and it went some way to erase the cup defeat. Plenty of good individual performances as well, but there could only be one man of the match and that was most definitely Paul who excelled from start to finish.
1st March 2009
Competition - Tam Dalyell County Cup
Versus - East Stirling
Lost 1-5
After the previous weeks shock cup exit, the Diamonds faced a daunting challenge against an East Stirling side that reached the last 8 of this year’s Scottish Cup. As expected, East Stirling came out of the blocks quickly hoping to finish the game off early, but found the Diamonds in a resolute mood. With a combination of good teamwork and some intelligent defending they managed to restrict the Shire to the very occasional half chance in the first 10 minutes. After 12 minutes the Shire had their first clear sight of goal when a mistake in the Diamonds defence offered their striker a good opportunity but fortunately for the Diamonds he blazed over. The respite was however short lived, when the Shire managed to get in behind the Diamonds defence. Their winger then cut a dangerous ball into the 6 yards box and Cameron could only look on helplessly, as Connor turned the ball past him. The Shire pressed forward looking for a second, but again the Diamonds looked relatively comfortable, however another mistake allowed the Shire another chance and former Livi Villa striker Keiran made no mistake with a fierce shot into the bottom corner. Despite being behind the Diamonds were still hanging on in there although the front men were not getting much service and struggling to make any headway against a well organised and strong Shire back four. The Shire although having much of the play were not really creating many opportunities and it looked as if that would be the end of the scoring, when the Diamonds conceded another poor goal. Grant got a shout to leave the ball as it looked to be going over the line for a bye kick. Unfortunately the Shire winger had other ideas and somehow managed to wrap his foot round Grant and the ball and fire in a low cross which was finsished brilliantly by the on rushing forward as the Diamonds defence remained static.
Half-Time Diamonds 0 East Stirling 3
The Diamonds came out firing on all cylinders at the second half and created their best opportunity when Ryan K was put through one on one with the Shire keeper but his shot was well saved. With a little composure if he had looked up he would have seen Ryan S all alone in the box and a pass would have brought the Diamonds back into it. This however fired up the boys and Ryan K again looked menacing whenever he got the ball. Unlike the first half the second half flowed from end to end with the Diamonds giving as good as they got. Chance were made at both ends and a combination of good goal keeping and last ditched defending prevented any further scoring. Tradgedy struck midway through the half for the Diamonds when a lack of communication resulted in a harmless throw in being headed past Cameron for a second own goal. This knocked the stuffing out of the boys and they were put under severe pressure for the next five minutes and it was no surprise that the Shire added a fifth. Looking at a possible hiding with 20 minutes to play, the boys dug in and again competed for everything. Another couple chances were missed before the Diamonds finally got a tangible reward for their persistence when Ryan S broke through and finished well with a low shot. No more than the Diamonds deserved and they continued to battle until the end. This was almost quite literal when both sides had a player dismissed leaving the sides to play out the final few minutes with 10 men each. This was completely out of character for the match which was played in a good competitive spirit and would have been easy to referee, but for this one small incident. A very good display by the boys, with excellent all round performances by the whole squad. The score line flattered a very good East Stirling side a little, but they were well worthy of their win. The Diamonds would like to wish Willie, Chalky and the boys all the best for the rest of the season.
22nd February 2009
Competition - Bob Lambie Cup
Versus - Boghall
Lost 4-5
The Diamonds travelled to Bathgate for a cup tie against a team struggling at the lower end of the league. The coaches warned the boys about complacency, and that the previous result against Boghall would have no bearing on this match. Right from the start, this message did not get through to the boys as they started off very poorly against a well fired up Boghall side. After five minutes the Diamonds conceded a very soft goal when a corner could easily have been cleared at the front post. The boys failed to do this and as it travelled across the six yard box it struck a Diamonds defender and rolled agonisingly into the net. This lifted Boghall and they continued to dominate the game against an out of sorts Diamonds team. Ten minutes later, another disaster for the Diamonds, when a back pass was short and the Boghall forward nipped in to round the keeper and fire into the empty net. Still the Diamonds couldn’t raise their game and most of the action continued in the Diamonds half of the field. Against the run of play, the Diamonds broke forward and pulled a goal back when Ryan S scored his first goal for the club with a good finish. This goal however did nothing to change the pattern of the game and it was no surprise when Boghall restored their two goal cushion. On the stroke of half time, the Diamonds pulled another goal back which their play scarcely deserved when Connor thundered home from the edge of the 18 yard box.
Half Time: Boghall 3 Diamonds 2
After a half time roasting by the coaches a fired up Diamonds team emerged after the break and immediately took control of the game and pushed Boghall back for the first time in the match. Within two minutes of the restart, the Diamonds were level, when Ryan burst through and was upended in the box. From the resultant penalty Connor made no mistake, giving the home goalkeeper no chance with a low powerful shot into the corner. From that point on it was one way traffic, with the Diamonds creating a number of chances. From a quick free kick , Paul played a great through ball to Colin S who held off a defender before finding the corner of the net and suddenly the Diamonds were in front. At this point the boys were cruising and in complete control of the game and had a good effort cleared off the line. All this changed with around 15 minutes left, when under no pressure the Diamonds tried to dribble the ball out of defence and were caught in possession in their own 18 yard box. The Boghall striker pounced and suddenly the tie was all square. From then on it was end to end stuff with the Diamonds being foiled by a great save from a shot by Ricky and the rebound being scrambled clear. In the end it was settled ten minutes from time when a free kick awarded to the Diamonds just outside the Boghall penalty area was blocked by the wall and hooked clear. With the defence out of position, the Boghall striker sprinted clear from the half way line and fired home from 18 yards. Try as they may, the Diamonds could not break down a resolute Boghall team in the remaining minutes. In the end it was a well deserved victory for Boghall over the eighty minutes. Many of the Diamonds players turned up expecting an easy victory and just didn’t compete on the day. A harsh lesson to learn during a cup game and one the coaches do not wish repeated again this season. We would like to wish Boghall all the best for the rest of the season and good luck for the rest of the cup competition.
2nd February 2009
Competition - League
Versus - Whitburn FCA
Drew 4-4
After a 10-week lay-off due to bad weather and unplayable pitches, the Diamonds played their first game of 2009 away to Whitburn FCA at a cold but dry King George Park in Whitburn. This would be a real test for the boy’s promotion ambitions against a team wrongly demoted to the B League. Having met previously this season in a Scottish Cup thriller, which the Diamonds narrowly won after sudden death penalties, this was always going to be a close affair and so it turned out to be. The Diamonds were missing Connor and Michael through injury, although having new signings Murray and Ryan S available for the first time compensated this. The game started off with Whitburn in control, passing the ball nicely around without creating too many opportunities. With the Diamonds looking rusty, Whitburn continued to exert pressure and forced a couple of corners, however, the Diamonds defence and keeper dealt competently with any threats. The Diamonds were struggling to get any rhythm going and were looking out of sorts for the first twenty minutes until a good run and cross from Nick resulted in the Diamonds first corner. From the corner the boys almost took an unexpected lead when Ricky’s powerful header was well saved by the Whitburn keeper. This galvanised the Diamonds who came more into the game and started to create opportunities. After breaking up a Whitburn attack, Mark played a defence splitting pass to Ricky who ran in on goal and narrowly shot wide. Minutes later the Diamonds took the lead when Ryan S and Paul combined to good effect, before Paul picked out Ryan K ghosting in at the far post to f8inish off the move with a free header. The boys were beginning to look dangerous with each and every attack, and Ryan almost had a chance to double the lead but was ruled marginally offside as he sped in on goals. Despite having plenty of possession, Whitburn’s chances were restricted although Cameron had to dive smartly to save a low drive.
Half-Time Whitburn FCA 0 Diamonds 1
The coaches made a change in formation at the start of the second half opting for a 3-5-2 formation, and almost immediately the Diamonds conceded a soft goal. A corner was conceded and from it there appeared no danger when the Diamonds had an easy clearance. Unfortunately, the clearance was not made and the ball broke to a Whitburn player who rifled in a shot from 12 yards. The Diamonds reply was instant. From the kick off, the ball was played to Paul who picked out Ryan S with a 40-yard pass. He cut inside and played an inch perfect cross to Ricky who headed past the stranded keeper from 8 yards out. What a start to the second half. Rather than kick on, the Diamonds appeared to lose their way for a 10-minute spell as Whitburn scored twice to lead a pulsating encounter 3-2. Both goals were preventable as the defence were caught ball watching and the midfield failed to track their runners. The Diamonds the fashioned an equaliser, when Colin broke free from the half way line, coolly rounded the keeper and slotted into the empty net. Still 20 minutes to go and all to play for with both sides pressing forward trying to secure the points. The Diamonds then wasted a couple of good opportunities to regain the lead, before Whitburn edged in front when a low cross was smashed home by the onrushing midfielder. Still the Diamonds wouldn’t be beaten and Ryan equalised with 10 minutes to go with a brave header at the far post. The Diamonds then had a couple of chances to win it when firstly Paul went for goal, when a cross would have found two Diamond players all alone and then Murray fired wide from a good position. Whitburn then raced to the other end and had a chance but put it over, then Ryan then went one on one with the Whitburn keeper before shooting wide. In the final few minutes Whitburn could have won it when their striker blazed it over from 10yards. A pulsating game which both sides felt they should have won. Another thriller between these two sides who cannot be separated except by penalties and an excellent advert for the B league. Played in a good spirit with plenty of hard but fair challenges and extremely well refereed. Another decent performance by the Diamonds, however if we are to secure promotion, we need to take our chances and not give away silly goals Excellent performances by Grant, Calum, Mark and Ricky, however these were eclipsed by man of the match Colin S, who gave a captains display, in not only leading the forward line but dropping back to help out his midfield and defence when needed.
23rd November 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Polbeth UTD Colts
Won 8-0
The Diamonds went into this game full of confidence, having won their last three matches and beginning to look like the side the coaches expected to see earlier in the season. Having scored 20 goals in these three games the Coaches again opted for an attacking 4-3-3 formation with Nick pushing on from wide right and Mark anchoring the midfield. The Diamonds again started quickly and soon had the Colts pushed back into their own half. It was no surprise when the Diamonds took the lead when Paul fired home after 10 minutes. The Diamonds continued to make chances but squandered them with ex-Diamond Dean outstanding in goals for the visitors, keeping out three one on one chances. Against the run of play, the Colts had an excellent chance to equalise when the Diamonds defence allowed the Colts to break forward, however, Cameron was quick of his line and bundled the Colts player to the ground just outside the box. From the resulting free kick, the Diamonds cleared and sensing this wake up call, burst forward and Ricky pounced on a loose ball in the box to double the Diamonds advantage. From that point onwards the Diamonds dominated against the injury hit Colts. Creating chance after chance, only some dogged defending and outstanding goalkeeping kept the Colts in it. Ryan added an third, before Paul scored with a free header from a corner and Ricky added a fifth near the half time break, rounding off a good team performance by the boys.
Half-Time Diamonds 5 Polbeth United Colts 0
Having secured a comfortable lead, the Diamonds continued to dominate and again fashioned some good chances, but Dean again foiled his old club with a number of good saves, although in fairness the finishing lacked the conviction of previous weeks. Still this allowed the Coaches to give some of the fringe plays a good run out and none of them disappointed putting in some good displays especially from the returning Owen and our trialist Sean who looked very comfortable at right back. Midway through the half, Paul added a sixth with a tremendous shoot into the top corner for his hat trick. This sparked a flurry of chances with Ricky also grabbing his third and the Diamonds seventh when he burst through into the box and placed a cool finish past Dean. Ryan ended the scoring for the Diamonds with around 10 minutes left when he was on hand to tuck the ball into the corner. Credit to the Polbeth boys who stuck at it, roared on by their parents and coaches they had a couple of half chances near the end to pull a goal back, but the ball would just not fall for them. Another fine performance by the Diamonds, despite missing a number of chances, they dominated the game, restricting the Colts to a few chances. Great performances by all the boys, but special mention to man of the match Colin S, who despite not scoring, put in a power of work and set up numerous chances for other with his unselfish workrate. The Diamonds move forward with great confidence for the New Year, having managed to acquire Murray and Ryan S to strengthen the squad and hopefully will have long term injured player Grant back in the near future.
16th November 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Boghall FC
Won 9-0
Two games in two weeks as the Diamonds travelled to the Simpson Primary School in Bathgate, the new home of Boghall FC. The Diamonds boys and coaches were well impressed with the set up and would like to congratulate Gary and the team for secuting such excellent facilities for the boys. The game kicked off in brilliant sunshine on a park that was being played on for the first time. Boghall were first on the attack and the Diamonds were pushed back after Boghall forced a couple of early corners without threatening too much. After about 8 minutes, Boghall were awarded a free kick in a dangerous area and Cameron done well to push the ball round the post. Gradually the Diamonds began to get into the game and started to make some chances. With Nick, Colin and Paul combining well the Diamonds created a couple of decent opportunities but failed to test the keeper. After 15 minutes the Diamonds took a lead their play had scarcely deserved. However there was no doubting the quality of the goal when Paul stepped inside a couple of tackles and fired a rocket shot into the corner giving the keeper no chance. After that the game ebbed and flowed with both sides creating chances. Cameron kept the Diamonds in front with a very good save low down to his right before Ricky scored the first of his goals as he got in behind the defence and scored from a narrow angle. This was the start of the Ricky show as he seened to score every time he touched the ball, adding a third and fourth before the break. The last of these was where he showed great persistence in holding off three challenges before beating the keeper from close range. To be fair to Boghall there was not must between the teams in the first half, except for the quality of the Diamonds finishing.
Half-Time Boghall FC 0 Diamonds 4
Having done the hard part in establishing a lead, the Diamonds were iin no mood to let it slip. Straight from the kick off the Diamonds pushed forward looking to end the game as a contest. Within 5 minutes of the restart, Ricky grabbed his fourth and the Diamonds fifth after a mistake by the Boghall defence. Shortly after Paul added a sixth after a goalmouth scramble. Ricky continued with his amazing day in front of goal when he notched in his fifth and the Diamonds seventh with a well placed shot. With around fifteen minutes to play the Diamonds were awarded a penalty when Ryan was brought down as he headed for goal. Having not scored in 115 Plus appearances for the Diamonds, the coaches sent Owen forward for his moment of glory. He did not disappoint with a well taken penalty to break his duck and a celebration to match. With around 10 minutes to go the Diamonds added a ninth when Ryan should have scored from close in, but somehow shanked his shot right into the path of Ricky who headed home for a double hat-trick. It was just one of those days for him. If everything went right for Ricky, nothing seemed to go right for his striking partner Colin who was denied the goal of the game when a spectacular shot form outside the box came crashing back off the bar. To be fair to Boghall, they never let their heads go down and great credit goe to them and their coaches for not resorting to dirty tricks. They played good football to the end and were unlucky not to get a couple of goals from the good chances they created. Special mention to Connor who was outstanding at the back and but for Ricky's finishing would have one the man of the match. A good all round team performance, which moves the Diamonds up to third in the table. The coaches have stressed that they need to continue to work hard in training and show a similar attitude and commitment for the rest of the season.
9th November 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Livingston Villa
Won 5-1
The Diamonds finally returned to action after a six week layoff with the weather, although this was in doubt until a last minute inspection by the referee deemed the pitch playable. Having lost a few players to long term injury and other pursuits the coaches were not sure what to expect. Having taken in the Villa game the previous week the Coaches opted for an attacking 4-3-3 formation with Nick pushing on from wide right and Mark anchoring the midfield. The Diamonds started quickly for a change and soon had Villa on the defensive as they fashioned a number of chances before taking the lead after 20 minutes. The goal came when Ryan lashed a shot from the edge of the box and it took a big bounce over the unfortunate Villa keeper. From then on the boys took command of midfield and started to create a number of chances. Ryan should have made it two when he failed to connect properly with a great cross from Nick and a couple of other good chances were missed before Nick burst through and added a second giving the keeper no chance with a well placed shot. With the Diamonds in complete control, except for a few menacing breaks from the Villa midfield which the defence coped with it was only a question of how many the Diamonds would score. When Colin S added a third after 30 minutes it looked like it could be easy for the Diamonds as they were playing some great football and moving the ball quickly. At that point the Diamonds stopped playing and lost their shape going to a 4-2-4 formation against a 4-5-1 form Villa. Being outnumbered 5 to 2 in midfield the Diamonds began to get overwhelmed and Villa began to look more and more dangerous without creating to much. The Diamonds were further hampered when Michael limped off to be replaced by Owen making his comeback after breaking his arm in August. Despite the Villa pressure the Diamonds held out to half time.
Half-Time Diamonds 3 Villa 0
Although winning comfortably, the Coaches stressed that a goal for Villa would let them back in, therefore it was important for the boys to get back their shape and play the fast, fluent football from early in the game. Having had the better of the game just before half time Villa went looking for the goal that would get them back into the match and Cameron made two very good saves to keep the Diamonds lead intact. Slowly the Diamonds again began to get back on top, and Paul further increased the lead when he smashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner for a great indivuidual goal. his seemed to knock the stuffing out of Villa and the Diamonds again swarmed forward. Ryan missed a good chance as he fired wide after a glorious cross field ball from Connor. Ricky added a fifth when he outmuscled the centre half and ran through on goal and finished superbly. This allowed the coaches to rotate the players and give the substitutes a good run out. Near the end Villa were awarded a penalty when Owen mistimed a challenge, which they converted to pull a goal back. A great team performance with with everybody contributing to the victory with Colin Brown deserving special mention as he was outstanding at right back, despite being booked for talking out of turn. However the referee's man of the match went to Paul for his hard work and industry and also the very special goal he scored early in the second half. Credit to Villa who didn't give up and had a couple of decent chances which if they had taken one of them could have led to a closer game. In the end a fair result and the Diamonds beginning to look like the side the coaches know they have.
28 September 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Mid Calder Colts
Won 6-3
The Diamonds returned to league duty with a difficult away fixture to Mid Calder with a depleted squad missing three of their regular back 4, due to a combination of injuries and other issues, but welcomed back Grant after a period on the sidelines. On a tight pitch, the Diamonds faced two ex-players in Jordan and Jack on a beautiful Sunday morning. The game followed the usual pattern with the Diamnds starting off slowly they fell behind early when some poor defending allowed a powerful shot from the Mid Calder midfielder creep into the net after Cameron could only parry into the net. To make matters worse, shortly after the Diamonds conceded a penalty which was converted by Mid Calder. Again as usual a 2-0 deficit seemed to wake the Diamonds up and after some neat football in the corner, Mark put in a great cross which Ryan buried with a point blank header which crashed off the underside of the bar. There followed aperiod of sustained pressure by the Diamonds and after a bit of a scramble, the Diamonds equalised when Ricky was on hand to score from 4 yards after a goalmouth scramble. Mid Calder then pushed forward and the Diamonds had a break when Cameron managed to push a shot onto the bar and Michael ceared. Ricky then had a great chance to put the Diamonds in front but the ball got caught between his feet and the ball was cleared Ryan was then harshly booked for diving, when it appeared that the Diamonds had a stonewall penalty turned down. Minutes later the Mid Calder centre forward was needlessly booked for dissent as half time approached. With no further action the game finished all square at the break.
HT: Mid Calder 2 Diamonds 2
Having gained the upperhand just before half time, the Diamonds came out firing on all cylinders and pushed Mid calder onto the defensive. With Paul and Jack combining effectively in the midfield and Mark and Ryan providing effective outlets on either flank, it was no surprise that the Diamonds took the lead and what a way to do it. Paul and Ryan worked a nice passing move befor feeding the ball onto Colin, who slipped his markerand headed for goal. As the ball sat up nicely on the edge of the box, he smashed an absolute rocket of a shot past the helpless keeper and through the net!!! At that point there looked like only one winner, but again the Diamonds switched off and Mid Calder almost equalised from the restart. Cameron then done well to block a shot and former Diamonds player Jack could have levelled but shot straight at Cameron who was able to gather. Mid Calder then did equaise when the Diamond defence failed to play to the whistle and we were back all square. Again the Diamonds upped the pace and were rewarded by another fine goal. Having had their doubts about one particular part of the pitch to take corners from the Diamonds had practiced furiously just prior to the start of the match and how that work paid off, when Mark stole in at the near post and flashed a header into the roof of the net for another cracking goal. Almost immediately from the restart Mid Calder had a player sent off, when the centre forward fouled Colin and received a second booking and was dismissed. The Diamonds were now in total control and Paul got a goal his overall performance deserved shortly afterwards. Despite being down to 10 men, Mid Calder continued to press forward and had the Diamonds defence struggling to clear on a couple of ocassions but just didn't get the break of the ball or some good defending by the defence and Mark and Paul kept them out. Near the end Colin S added a sixth after the ball was deflected over the keeper to cap off another fine individual performance. A good victory and plenty of good performances. A number of players could easily have won man of the match including all of the back four, Paul, Ryan, Ricky and Colin. In the end though it went to Mark who made one, scored one and generally was in the right place at the right time near the end when Mid Calder were pressing forward to grab some consolation. Special mention to all the lads from Mid Calder who never gave up despite being reduced to ten men. I’m sure they will cause a lot of teams problems and will be in the mix at the end of the season.
14 September 2008
Competition - Scottish Cup 1st Round
Versus - Fernieside Boys Club
Lost 5-1
Having barely survived the preliminary round, the Diamonds travelled to Edinburgh to face 3rd Division Fernieside in the first round proper of the Scottish Cup. The Diamonds struggling with injury worries, had to shuffle the pack and make a couple of enforced changes on the left hand side. On a bright sunny day the boys were started very sluggishly and in were very shaky in defence as Fernieside swarmed forward. The only real surprise was that it took them so long to open the scoring. Again it was a poor goal to concede, although to be fair to Fernieside it was no more than their adventureous play had deserved. The Diamonds were on the ropes and Fernieside continued too dominate and only a number of last ditch tackles prevented the score from being much worse. As the half progressed the Diamonds began to get back into the game, without ever creating anything. To often passed were rushed or did not find a man, however, the defence had got their act together and were looking a bit more of a cohesive unit as half time approached. Just as it looked as if the Diamonds would escape lightly, they were caught ball watching at a throw in and found themselves 2-0 down.
Half Time: Fernieside 2 Diamonds 0
The Diamonds came out of the traps quickly in the second half after their abject display in the first half. They soon pulled a goal back with again a huge slice of luck. After being awarded a free kick 35 yards out, Calum's shot at goal appeared to present no danger, but the Fernieside keeper misjudged his angles and let the ball roll into the net, when he clearly thought the ball was going by. At that point the Diamonds were right back in the tie and the coaches were looking for a bit more effort to ensure the cup run would continue. Unfortunately it was not to be as Fernieside continue to create the more clear cut chances and added 3 more goals before the finish. To many of the boys did not turn up, which was a pity as a Premier League scout was watching and the boys had a great chance to impress. The boys, coaches and parents of Uphall Diamonds BUFC would like to thank Fernieside Boys Club for their excellent hospitality after the match. The boys, coaches and parents were a credit to the Edinburgh District Youth Football Leagues and we wish them all the very best in the future. They have an excellent set up which many teams in the WLAYFC would be proud off.
09 September 2008
Competition - League
Versus - East Calder Colts
Lost 4-6
The Diamonds face recently relegated East Calder in the final midweek game until next year at a very wet and muddy King George Park. P assed playable by the referee just before the kick off, the game got underway at a cracking pace. The Diamonds were first to score when Nick burst through the centre of the East Calder defence and firing past the onrushing keeper. The lead however was short lived with East Calder replying within 3 minutes when some slack marking allowed the East Calder forward to volley home from 10 yards. Play flowed from end to end with both teams trying to play football in tricky conditions and the Diamonds regained the lead 10 minutes later, when Paul scored from a close range header. Again the lead was short lived as East Calder equalised within 5 minutes. With 5 minutes left in the half, East Calder took the lead for the first time when a long throw caught out the defence and the forward knocked the ball past Cameron into the corner of the net.
Half Time: Diamonds 2 East Calder 3
The second half started off with East Calder pressing hard to extend their lead, with the Diamonds looking menacing on the break. It was from one of these breaks that the Diamonds equalised when Colin S fired home from the edge of the box. At this point it was anybodies game, but the Diamonds shot themselves in the foot by conceding a needless penalty which was duly converted. After that East Calder began to take control and further extended their lead by adding a couple of well worked goals. Far from dropping out of the game, the Diamonds appeared to recover and snatched a goal back with 10 minutes left when Paul finished of a free flowing move. This spurred the Diamonds on and they pushed East Calder back but were unable to make any in roads into the scoreline. Overall, a decent performance in the circumstances, against a very good East Calder outfit. Easy to see why they will be the team to beat this year in the B Division. Well coached and organised and trying to play good football at all times.
02 September 2008
Competition - League
Versus - BFC Linlithgow
Draw 4-4
Having had little time to recover from their cup exertions on the previous Sunday, the Diamonds were looking to pick up a couple of valuable league points against BFC Linlithgow. Having finished at the bottom of the league last year the coaches at Linlithgow had acquired a number of new players and it was never going to be an easy task for the Diamonds. The task was made harder when the Diamonds conceded a needless free kick early in the game and Linlithgow scored direct from the kick, when the ball floated over the keepers head and into the top corner. Rocked by this, the Diamonds struggled to get a hold of the game and created little in the way of clear cut chances. Linlithgow looked very sharp and went further ahead when again poor defending allowed their striker to go through and place a low shot into the corner of the net. The Diamonds then began to creep back into the game after this sluggish start and after 25 minutes, pulled a goal back when Connor scored with a great volley at the near post. Just before half time Colin S burst through and equalised for the Diamonds.
Half Time: BFC Linlithgow 2 Diamonds 2
The Diamonds pushed forward straight from the start of the second half and within the space of 5 minutes had created three excellent chances but somehow managed to miss all three, although the boys were certain that a shot from Colin S which hit the underside of the bar, had crossed the line, before being cleared. With the Diamonds in control and Linlithgow being forced onto the defensive, it came as a bit of a shock when Linlithgow again took the lead. Again the defence gave away a needless free kick outside the box and again the Linlithgow player scored direct from the kick. Linlithgow took heart from this and started to get on top. Shortly afterwards, Owen fell awkwardly and fractured his left arm and had to be taken to hospital. As the Diamonds struggled to recover from these blows, Linlithgow extended the lead when another soft goal was conceded from a corner. Looking down and out, the boys somehow managed to claw their way back into the game when Paul found Nick with a good through ball and he made no mistake. With 10 minutes left the Diamonds had a let off when Linlithgow hit the post and almost immediately the Diamonds broke up field and Colin S equalised. For the last few minutes the play raged from end to end but there was no further scoring and both teams had to settle for a point.
Footnote: The coaches and players wish Owen a speedy recovery from his injury and look forward to having him back in the squad. We would also like to thank both Nick and Cameron’s mums for taking care of Owen and transporting him to hospital.
31st August 2008
Competition - Scottish Cup (Preliminary Round)
Versus - Whitburn FCA
3-3 AET Won 4-3 on pens
What an absolute thriller of a cup-tie and a great advert for “B” league football as the Diamonds and Whitburn FCA met in the preliminary round of the Scottish Cup. Whitburn started the brighter of the two teams as the Diamonds struggled to get a grip of the game in midfield. After a period of sustained pressure Whitburn opened the scoring after Owen was harshly judged to have handled the ball just outside the box. From the resultant free kick, the Whitburn player curled a great shot into the top corner, giving the Diamonds keeper no chance. This gave Whitburn a great lift and they continued to press, without making any clear cut chances. With 20 minutes gone, Whitburn added a second when another terrific shot from 25 yards screamed into the top corner and the Diamonds looked to be heading out of the Cup. At this point the coaches made a change in midfield which made a big difference and gradually the Diamonds began to get on top. A couple of half chances were created, before the Diamonds enjoyed a big slice of luck when a half hit shot by Ryan was deflected past the Whitburn keeper into the net and we had a cup tie on our hands.
Half Time: Diamonds 1 Whitburn 2
The Diamonds started off the second half at a tremendous pace and pinned Whitburn back into their own half for long periods. Without creating too many clear cut chances the Diamonds pressed hard for an equaliser and were eventually rewarded when Nick fired home after good work by Colin S. Neither team created too much from then on and the tie always had the look of going to extra extra time.
Full Time: Diamonds 2 Whitburn 2
Extra time saw the Diamonds maintain a firm hold on the game and creating the better chances. Nick had a good chance to put the Diamonds ahead but fired wide. The Diamonds then lost both Mark and Ryan to injury, but the Diamonds continued to press forward and it was no surprise when Grant pounced on a goalmouth scramble to fire the Diamonds into the lead with around 10 minutes to play. The Diamonds defence remained untroubled and dealt very effectively with all Whitburn could throw at them. With a couple of minutes left Colin S could have secured the tie but fired wide although there was a suggestion that he was fouled as he went to shoot. The tie took a dramatic twist in the last minute of extra time when the defence failed to clear a ball which should have been booted out of the park. The Whitburn forward burst into the penalty box, before Blair managed to get back and hold him up. At that point 3 Diamonds defenders simulataneously tackled the forward and the ball broke out for a corner as the Whitburn player went down under the challenge. The Referee pointed to the penalty spot as the Diamond defenders were incensed by the decision. After a short delay, Whitburn equalised with the last kick of the ball.
After Extra Time: Diamonds 3 Whitburn 3
Despite losing the late goal the coaches rallied the boys and reminded them that they were still very much involved in this cup tie. With a combination of injuries and substitutions, the coaches asked for volunteers and five boys bravely stepped forward. After winning the toss the Diamonds opted to go first. Jack stepped up and had his penalty saved by the keeper. Up stepped the first Whitburn player and he made no mistake. Dale was next to go for the Diamonds and again the Whitburn keeper saved. The second Whitburn player coolly slotted home and the Diamonds looked dead and buried at 0-2 down. Colin B was third to go and despite the pressure he must have felt, he calmly rolled the ball into the corner to make it 1-2. It was then up to Cameron, who managed to block Whitburn’s third penalty and there was now a glimmer of hope. Up stepped Michael to smash the ball into the corner and the Diamonds were level, although Whitburn still had the advantage. This advantage was wiped out as Cameron again made a great save to bring it all square. Calum was last up and he made no mistake and unbelievably the Diamonds led 3-2. The pressure now switched to Whitburn but their player was equal to the task as he sent the keeper the wrong way. Sudden death penalties and Craig volunteered to take the sixth penalty. After a brief word of encouragement from the boys he strode confidently forward. Showing no signs of pressure he smashed an unstoppable shot high into the top corner and the Diamonds now led 4-3. Again the pressure transferred to the Whiburn player. With the boys looking on and Head Coach Brian hanging on at the end of a mobile phone (after being unable to attend due to work commitments), Cameron made a great block to send the Diamonds through. It was tough break on the Whitburn lad who had been outstanding throughout the game.
26th August 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Polbeth United
Lost 2-3
With their game against Livingston Villa cancelled at the weekend, the Diamonds welcomed Polbeth United for their first home game of the season. In good spirits after two good league performances, the Diamonds had high hopes of securing another league victory. What a difference a week makes! The Diamonds were a shadow of the side who had performed so well in the previous games. All credit to the Polbeth team, who were first to every ball, looked the hungrier outfit and played together as a team. It was no surprise that they took the lead after a mistake in the midfield gifted possession to Polbeth and they broke forward to open the scoring. The Diamonds were a bit ragged and were lucky not to fall further behind when a rasping shot from the edge of the box hit the foot of the post. With very little happening, it was no surprise when Polbeth doubled their lead when again the defence conceded a very soft goal. The only pleasing effect of this goal was it appeared to wake the Diamonds who then began to take control and fashioned a couple of excellent chances just before the break but failed to convert.
Half Time: Diamonds 0 Polbeth Utd 2
After a sharp talking to the Diamonds started the second half in determined fashion and pushed Polbeth back. Again a couple of good chances were fashioned and missed before Ryan converted after a great flowing move to put the Diamonds right back in it. With their tails up the Diamonds flooded forward playing some good football and creating several chances. With 12 minutes gone in the second half John was found unmarked by a defence splitting pass and despite a miss-hit, the ball found the bottom corner of the net and the game was all square. At this point, there really only looked like one winner in this game. However, with 20 minutes left a speculative shot was dropped by the Diamonds keeper and the defence failed to react as quickly as the Polbeth forward who was left with a simple tap-in. This took the wind out of the Diamonds sails and they struggled to reassert control on the match. Polbeth battled for every ball and prevented the Diamonds from creating any real chances and as the Diamonds got more and more desperate, they resorted to the long ball, rather than trying to play football. In the end Polbeth held out to claim the points. A disappointing performance and result from the boys who we know can perform much, much better.
19 August 2008
Competition - N/A
Versus - Boghall Bulldogs
(Abandoned after 61 minutes – waterlogged pitch)
After starting the season with a fine victory away to Murie Red, the boys were looking to continue their winnings ways against Boghall. After many days of heavy rain, the pitch survived a late pitch inspection and the game go underway in bright sunshine. Straight from the start, the Diamonds looked sharp and forced Boghall onto the defensive. With Connor and Jack pulling the strings in the midfield and Dale and Ryan looking menacing down both flanks, it looked only a matter of time before the Diamonds would force a breakthrough. It duly arrived 10 minutes into the game when Ryan pounced on a weak clearance, beat a defender and placed the ball low into the corner for a fine individual goal. 10 minutes later Conner added a second. The boys were beginning to over commit as they camped in the Boghall half looking to add to their tally. As a result a swift break caught out the Diamonds and with their first meaningful attack, Boghall pulled a goal back and looked like they were right back in the game. However, far from being deflated by the setback, the Diamonds continued to press and Ryan added a deserved third as a rampant Diamonds created numerous chances.
Half Time: Boghall 1 Diamonds 3
The second half started in a more even fashion as Boghall tried to get a toehold in the game. Unlike the first half the play was more end to end although neither team really created any clear cut chances. The Diamonds began to take control and from a good through ball, Colin S sprung the offside trap and slotted home a fourth. At this point there looked no way back for Boghall. Just after Colin scored the bight sunshine was replace by some dark ominous clouds and the rain began to fall – lightly at first. As the rain got heavier the water began to lie on the pitch. After 61 minutes the referee very correctly abandoned the game as surface water began to appear on the pitch. With no complaints from either side the player trudged off, just as the heavens opened and what was once a football pitch became a 100M swimming pool in the space of a few minutes
Note: After discussion with the League secretary as the game was abandoned before the final whistle the result will not count and the game will be rearranged for later in the year.
17 August 2008
Competition - League
Versus - Murieston Reds
Won - 10-5
The 2008/2009 league season started the same way as the previous season ended with an away visit to Murieston United Reds. The Diamonds travelled with a depleted squad of 12 players, due to a combination of injuries and holidays, but found their opponents in worse shape when they were unable to field a full team. The game started off slowly for the Diamonds and they fell behind early when a needless penalty was conceded and converted by Murieston. This seemed to wake the Diamonds up and after some sustained pressure, Murieston conceded a penalty which was converted by Connor. The boys continued to press and further goals were added by Nick and Dale to make it comfortable. However, on the stroke of half time a terrible defensive mix up allowed Murieston to pull a goal back.
Half Time: Murie Reds 2 Diamonds 3
After the break, the Diamonds stormed forward and quickly added a couple of goals through Connor and Colin S. Murieston however refused to give up and showed great character to again pull a goal back. The Diamonds though began to use the space more effectively as Murieston began to tire with Mark firing home from the edge of the box and Colin getting a well deserved second to make the score 7-3. Another lapse in concentration allowed Murieston to pull one back, before Connor completed his hat-trick and Dale got a second. Murieston never gave up and added a fifth from the penalty spot, before Nick rounded off the scoring by grabbing a tenth goal for the Diamonds. A good start to the season after last years disappointments. Special mention to Jack who was the referees man of the match and also to all the lads from Murieston who never gave up despite the handicap of not playing with a full team. I’m sure they will cause a lot of teams problems when they return to full strength.