A hard-fought win keeps Banks o' Dee in the title race of the Highland League.
In a tightly contested match at Spain Park, Banks o’ Dee emerged victorious against Formartine United, thanks to an early goal from Jevan Anderson. This win marks a significant rebound for the Aberdeen side after their recent defeat to Forres Mechanics, keeping them firmly in the race for the Breedon Highland League title.
Match Overview
The match began with Banks o’ Dee applying early pressure, and it didn’t take long for them to break the deadlock. Just eight minutes into the game, a corner taken by Michael Philipson found Mark Reynolds at the back post.
Reynolds’ header was flicked towards goal by Anderson, and the ball bounced off the crossbar before finding its way into the net, with a slight touch from goalkeeper Ewen Macdonald.
Despite the early setback, Formartine United fought back and had several opportunities to equalize. Julian Wade came close when he intercepted a pass but was unable to convert his chance, sending the ball wide of the target. The visitors continued to press, with Wade again narrowly missing the goal with a looping header.
Defensive Resilience
As the match progressed, Banks o’ Dee’s defense was put to the test, particularly in the second half when Formartine had the wind at their backs. Co-manager Paul Lawson praised his team’s defensive efforts, stating, “We knew in the second half with the wind behind them, Formartine would throw plenty at us. It was a night for grinding it out, and we had to dig in at times.” The team’s commitment to maintaining a clean sheet was evident, as they successfully thwarted multiple attempts from the opposition.
Formartine’s best chances came from Glenn Murison, whose long-range effort narrowly missed the target, and an overhead kick that landed on the roof of the net. Despite their efforts, they were unable to find the equalizer, and the match ended 1-0 in favor of Banks o’ Dee.
Implications for the League Standings
This victory keeps Banks o’ Dee in third place in the Breedon Highland League, just six points behind leaders Brora Rangers, who have played one more game. With Brechin City sitting in second place, two points ahead but with two games in hand, the competition remains fierce. Lawson emphasized the importance of focusing on their own performances, stating, “We’ve spoken about doing our job, and if results elsewhere bring us back into it (the title race), then so be it.”
For Formartine United, this defeat ends a three-match winning streak, leaving them in sixth place in the league. Manager Stuart Anderson reflected on the match, noting, “There was nothing in the game really. We lost a goal from a set play, which was the difference. The players gave everything, but we just couldn’t get the ball in the net.”
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to build on their performances. Banks o’ Dee will aim to maintain their momentum in the upcoming fixtures, while Formartine United will seek to bounce back and regain their winning form. The Highland League continues to provide thrilling matches, and with the title race heating up, every game will be crucial for the teams involved.
