Portgordon Victoria 5 - 1 Buckie United
On a glorious easter sunday afternoon at Gordon Park, with a capacity crowd watching, Portgordon opened the scoring with a back post header from Captain Anthony WILSON from a Christie free kick. Portgordon failed to make there pressure pay on 15 minutes when Darren Thain squandered a glorious chance to double the lead but a bad touch when through on goal denied him. Thain was then booked for catching United keeper Riddoch. Only a great last ditch tackle on Thursby from Duncun prevented Portgordon doubling there lead. Moments later a rare united 1st half attack ended in Barclay saving comfortably from a 25 yard Duthie effort, from the resulting throw out Portgordon won a corner which Christie whipped in to the 6 yarder where after a scramble the ball landed at the feet of Thain who luckily for United saw his effort blocked on the line and sent out for a throw in, Greig took the long throw quickly where the ball fell to Mark Wood all alone 6 yards out put was only able to send his header past the on rushing keeper inches wide of the post, which was the last notable chance of the 1st half. A quiet 2nd half came to life on 55 minutes a mistake from the defender allowed Gary MCKAY to run on to a long through ball and fire in at barclays near post. A rare chance for either side in the early stages of the 2nd half came when Christie was able to cut inside Gibbs of united and only a good low save from Riddoch prevented him putting Portgordon back in front. Moments later Christie again then had the chance to put Portgordon back in front after beating the keeper to a david main header back but was unable to keep his feet with the goal at his mercy and the ball was eventually cleared. Gary McKay had a chance to put United in front when he got in behind the Vics defence however his 1st touch dragged him to wide and allowed the defence to get back and clear the danger. Portgordon finally took the lead again on 70 minutes when Christie whipped a dangerous corner and the ball was cleared to the edge of the box where Tony GREIG was waiting and unleashed an unstoppable volley into the top corner which left Riddoch with no chance. A moment later after great play by mcintosh who layed it back to Greig who whipped a ball into the box from deep which Darren THAIN let bounce once before firing a looping half volley over the keeper and in off the post. Portgordons 3rd goal in 4 minutes and 4th of the afternoon came when Greig took a quick throw to John HARROLD who with the keeper at his mercy cut in and slotted it into the bottom corner. Portgordon had another chance to strengthen there lead with 10 minutes to go when Christie was played through by a sensational Mark Wood through ball however the winger was only able to fire his shot off the legs of Riddoch and out for a corner. Gareth Thain of United had a penalty shout turned on 80 minutes after he appeared to be pushed in the box. The scoring was complete on 88 mins when Mike CAMPBELL picked the ball up 30 yards out taking one touch before rifling into the bottom corner.
Verdict- A good start to the season for Portgordon who despite playing no where near there best stuff did enough to win the game comfortably and were never really troubled by a lacklustre United. MOTM - Mark Wood
Portgordon Vics - Barclay, Clark, Greig, Mcintosh, Wood, Wilson, Christie (Morrison) Thain, Thursby (Cormack), Harrold (Hart) & Campbell
Unused Subs - Innes & Creamer
Aberlour Villa 1-2 Portgordon Victoria
A drab encounter came to life on 15 minutes when Mcintosh of Portgordon header back to the keeper was picked up by Grant of Aberlour, and only a magnificent point blank save from Barclay kept the score at 0-0, Moments later it was the Aberlour keepers turn to excel after sum excellent football involving Thursby, Christie and Harrold ended with Harrold 8 yards out with the goal at his marcy but his low shot was turned behind for a corner by the legs the of keeper Ness, the game had now turned in to a end to attacking contest with chances for both sides and only a goal saving tackle from Man of the match Wilson prevented what would surely of been a certain goal for the home side, before another great save from Aberlour keeper Ness denied Thursby opening his account for the season. The last chance of the 1st half was also the best as Greig was gifted a free header 6 yards out but could only head harmlessly wide of the goal from an excellent Christie corner. With the second half only a few moments old the Vics took the lead, Christie floated in an excellent Corner to the back post where goal-machine Anthony WILSON rose highest send his header past the despairing dive of keeper Ness. Moments later Aberlour were nearly back in the game when slack marking in the Vics box presented Robertson with a opportunity to score but his overhead kick was inches wide of the post with the keeper beaten. On 65 minutes the Vics doubled there lead after some good work by Mcintosh on the edge of the box ended with ball falling to John HARROLD 10 yards out who cooley slotted by Ness and through the legs of the defender on the line. However with the next attack of the game the 1 goal deficit was returned as after a couple of ricochets the ball fell to Darren MITCHELL who appeared to be in an offside position and duly poked the ball by the advancing Barclay to make for an exciting last 20 minutes of the 2nd half. As Aberlour piled on the pressure in search of the equaliser it was the counter attacking Portgordon who has the best chances, a great ball from Mcintosh between the centre half and left back sent Mclean away in the clear but with the defender retreating defender did enough to put the winger of his stride and slice his shot wide of the goal. With the Vics pinned back in there half for the majority of the last 10 minutes it looked like Aberlour might snatch a late equaliser however it was Portgordon who had the last chance of the came to double there lead when Mcintosh was allowed to run into the box put his chip over the on rushing keeper bobbled inches wide of the far post.
Verdict- A good performance from the Vics who despite never really dominating there opponents had the clearer opportunities of the two sides as the defence snuffed out any danger the Aberlour forwards presented them with.MOTM -Anthony Wilson
Portgordon Vics- Barclay, Clark, Greig, Reid, Wood, Wilson, Christie, Campbell(Thain), Thursby(Cormack), Harrold(McLean), McIntosh
Unused subs- Morrison, Mair
Banff Rovers 1-6 Portgordon Victoria
The Vics made it 3 wins on a trot against 'dark horses' for the league Banff, in a game marred with constant torrential downpours. The vics should have taken the lead on 10 minutes when Mike Campbell burst through the Banff defence from midfield but with the keeper advancing on him took to long and his shot was saved, however from the vics next attack they did make it 1-0, as from his own ball over the top Mark Wood ran clear of the Banff defence and squared the ball where Callum CHRISTIE was waiting to tap the ball into the empty net. From this Banff rallied and for the next 20 minutes produced countless good saves from Barclay in the vics goal, the goal that there pressure deserved finally came on 35 minutes when Ritchie ran clear of the vics defence before being tackled by McIntosh, but the ball fell to PIRIE who slotted calmly pastsend the ball past Barclay. Banff continued to pile on the pressure and only a goal like clearance prevented them from taken the lead, However on 42 minutes the vics won a corner which Christie gave short to Greig who layed it the edge of the box for Wood who under pressure found Mike CAMPBELL 8 yards out who excellently turned his marker and slotted the ball past the keeper and into the bottom corner, The Vics found new life from the goal and had the chance to double there lead on the stroke of half time, Christie floated in a corner to the back post where Wilson powered a header back across goal only to see the ball cleared off the line with the keeper beaten. The 2nd half was a totally different game to the 1st, as the vics ran riot , with home side hardly having an attack to note, The Vics 3rd goal game after great play by CAMPBELL as he megged his marker on the edge of the box and curled the ball into the far corner from 20 yards given the keeper no chance. On the hour mark the Vics made the game safe with there 4th goal, after a good move the ball found its way to Cormack who chipped the ball by the on rushing keeper for Darren THAIN to head into the empty net. Man of the match Campbell twice had chances to bag his hat-trick as he burst through the woeful Banff defence from midfield but on both occasions poor shooting denied him, The 5th goal came when John HARROLD picked up the ball deep from a throw in before turned his marker and cooley lobbing the ball over the head of the stranded Banff goalie. With the final attack of the game CAMPBELL bagged the hat-trick his performance deserved after a scramble in the area the ball fell to him on the edge of the box and he drilled it by the keeper with the aid of a slight deflection.
Verdict- A good result for the vics who despite being under pressure for long spells in the 1st half managed to come away with what in the end was a comfortable victory. MOTM- Michael Campbell
Portgordon Vics - Barclay, Clark, Greig(Markuszewski), Mcintosh, Wood, Wilson, Christie (McLean) Thain, Cormack(Morrison), Harrold, Campbell
Burghead United 1 Portgordon Vics 7
In a comfortable victory for Portgordon against a weak Burghead side the scoring was opened in the 4th minute when Wood won the header from the goal kick which send John HARROLD clear of the defence to calmly lob the ball over the advancing keeper and put the Vics 1 up, however instead of pushing on and looking to finish off there opponents the vics sat back and let burghead pile the pressure on, with 15 minutes gone the home side really should have equalised when Fairgreive latched on to a ball over the top only to prod his shot inches wide of the post. Despite seeing less of the ball Portgordon had a chance to double there lead once Harrold was set through by a Cormack flick on only to shoot harmlessly wide of the goal when passing to on rushing Wood was surely the better option. Burghead finally got the equalizer there play deserved when YOUNG expertly controlled a through ball before calmly side footing ball into the far corner leaving the keeper with no chance, The goal seemed to finally wake up the vics who with there next attack went 2-1 up as Mike Campbell cut in from the right before playing a excellent ball in to the path of McIntosh whos low cross was turned into his own goal by Burghead defender COSTEN. Burghead would of had every reason for feeling agrieved at going it at half time losing, however the 2nd half was a completely different story as the vics steam rollered there opponents and could have had double figures with the amount of chances created. 5 Minutes in to the wnd half a 1st of there chances went begging as after good work by Mcintosh the ball fell to Harrold on the edge of the box who balzed over the bar with Thain in acres of space inside the box. The Vics however did double there lead on 57 mins when a long throw from Greig landed at the feet of Mark WOOD who cooley slotted home from 8 yards. Wood had a chance to double his talley when he met a long Reid free kick only to see his header fly just wide of the post, his 2nd of the game was only momentarily delayed tho as after a good run by Campbell the fell to Thain who cross into the box presented Harrold with a chance only to see his shot parried by the keeper for WOOD to score the rebound from close range and make the game save. The Vics made it 5 when Mcintosh piked out HARROLD on the edge of the box who fired home from the edge of the area for his 5th in 4 games, although the keeper really should have done better with shot. The Vics 6th came as a result to some great play down the right hand side involving Mair,Clark and Cormack which led to the ball landed at the feet of Mair on the edge of the box who opened the defence with a great ball to the on rushing CAMPBELL who finished briallaintly into the corner of the net leaving the keeper helpless. By now the vics were cruising with burghead rarely registering an attack and the 7th goal came after a great run down the left from Harrold who sent MAIR clear of the defence to casually lob the ball over the keeper and into the empty net in his first appearence of the season.
Verdict- A good 2nd half performance from Portgordon to win the game comfortably, although against a better side could have been several down at half time. MOTM - Mark Wood
Portgordon Vics - Markuszewski, Clark, Greig, Reid, Wood, Wilson, McIntosh (Morrison) Thain (Mair) Cormack, Harrold, Campbell (Collie)
Portgordon Vics 4 Rothes A 1
The Vics continued there impressive start to the season with a fifth consecutive win with an impressive win over bogey team Rothes A. The Vics should have been 1-0 up within five minutes when John Harrold was played clear of the Rothes defence only to chip his shot high wide and not very handsome. The break through did come however with the Vics next attack as Neil Mair sent HARROLD through, and when the keeper came out and missed the ball the winger had the easiest of tasks tapping the ball into the empty net, The Vics should have doubled there lead moments later when Wood took a quick free kick to Mair who turned Templeton well before dragging his shot harmlessly wide of goal. After 30 minutes of very little attacking threat Rothes started to come in to the game more and more and had two chances to equalise with headers but both flew harmlessly wide of the Vics goal. A very quiet 2nd half came to life when Mark Wood burst through the Rothes defence only to be brought down inside the box with the goal at his mercy, the offender Franklin was sent off and upstepped Graeme THURSBY to slot home the penalty and effectively make the game safe. The sending off started a Vics onslaught and should have scored more if it hadn't been for wasteful finishing, The Vics 3rd came when a good move starting with Keith Clark at right back found Thursby who's low cross was tapped in to the un-guarded net by substitute Daniel CORMACK. Thursby continued to cause the ten men of Rothes problems and the Vics could have had four soon after when the tall striker cut in and shot from an angle when it would have been easier to cut the ball to one of his teamates.The Vics 4th came when a long throw into the box was flicked on by Wood and found Neil MAIR un-marked at the back post to flick the ball by the keeper and into the net. The Vics created another chance soon after the restart when Clark won the ball at the back before spreading it wide to substitute Cormack who cut the ball back to Mark wood who shot tamely at Slessor in the Rothes goal. Rothes scored a last consolation when a stunning free kick from Ricky THOMPSON from 25 yards out which flew by the wall and left keeper Barclay with aboslutely no chance.
Verdict: The Vics notched another good win with probably their best overall performance this season but if they had taken their chances it could have been more. MOTM - Mark Wood
Portgordon Vics: Barclay, Clark, Greig, McIntosh, Wood, Wilson, Christie(Morrison), Thain(Collie) Thursby, Mair, Harrold (Cormack) Unused Sub: Markuszewski
Newmill 0 Portgordon Vics 4
A potentially tricky away fixture in the Mike Simpson cup turned out to be a easy win for Portgordon against a poor Newmill side. In a poor match for the spectator, which the Vics dominated from start to finish despite playing any where near there best, was only lit up by a brilliant piece of individual skill from Cormack who scored a great individual effort to score his hat trick. The Vics 1st goal came with there 1st real attack of the game as Mair played in THURSBY to rifle the ball high into the roof of the net from 18 yards leaving keeper Selby clutching at air. A great chance to double the lead went begging for Portgordon as after great play down the right from Christie, Mair had the chance for 8 yards but his tame effort failed to trouble Selby, Christie was having a lot of joy down the right and he had the chance to put the Vics two up when he ran on a through ball only blaze his shot high over the bar when squaring the ball to the onrushing cormack would have been the better option, By now the vics were running riot this time it was Wilson with the chance but his looping back post volley dipped narrowly over the bar with Selby strandid in the Newmill goal. The 2nd half was no different to 1st with Newmill not registering an attack of note the entire game as the vics continued to put pressure on Newmill goal, 2 great chances went begging for portgordon as 1st Thursby then Christie both had easy chances to put the Vics further in front but both were denied with poor finishing. The elusive 2nd goal did eventually come for Portgordon on 55 minutes when Mcintosh whipped in a excellent ball which CORMACK got the tiniest of touches on to flick into the effectively make the game save. In a rare foray into the vics box Newmill were given a penalty as Greig dazzled by the sun allowed the ball to bounce up and hit his hand leaving the ref with no option but to give a penalty, one of his few correct decision in the game. Up-stepped Rennie who despite send the keeper the wrong way send his kick wide of the left hand post. The game then preceded to turn back once more into the Vics favour as Thursby carried out a personal dual with keeper Selby, unfortunately for the striker with the keeper winning every time as a number of chances went begging, However the big man finally did beat the keeper in the 70th minute only to see his header crash off the bar and onto the hand of the defender on the line, which the referee somehow managed to miss. In the final two attacks of the game the Vics got both there 3rd and 4th goals, the 3rd coming when substitute Harrold picked the ball up 30 yards out and chipped a excellent ball through to CORMACK who despite seeming to be injured dinked the ball over the on-rushing keeper and into the corner of the net, That man CORMACK completed his hat trick with a sensational solo goal as he picked the ball up 20 yards out beating 4 defenders in and around the edge of the box before rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into the empty net for his 4th goal in 2 games.
Verdict- A routine victory for the vics who at times made it harder for themselves than it actually was, the defence was rarely troubled by a lacklustre Newmill, although the amount of simple chances missed must be a big worry for Portgordon.MOTM- Daniel Cormack
Portgordon Vics - Barclay, Clark, Greig (Markuszewski) McIntosh, Collie, Wilson, Christie, Thain, Thursby (Harrold) Mair Cormack
Portgordon Vics 3 Tomintoul 2
A tight game in which Tomintoul will have right to feel aggrieved not to have earned themselves a share of the spoils came to life in the the 10th when Gary McConnachie was sent clear of the Vics defence only to see his lob over keeper Jamie Barclay drop agonizeingly over the bar, The Vics first attack of the game also resulted in the first goal as Darren Thain's lobbed through ball sent Graeme THURSBY clear and his first time shot whistled by the keeper and into the net. Moments later Tomintoul had a glorious chance wasted when a great ball across the face of goal by Gary McConnachie left Adam Irvine with the simplest of tasks of knocking the ball into the empty net, but somehow the winger managed to blast his shot wide of the goal. However the equalizer finally came for the visitors when Keeper Barclay was beaten by a deep cross which fell to McConnachie who with open goals before him passed the ball to fellow striker Scott ROBERTSON to roll the ball into the un-guarded net, The goal failed to act as a wake up call to Portgordon who fell a goal behind as Ian MITCHELL curled the ball into the far corner from 20 yards, After the goal the Vics finally started to assert themselves as an attacking force in the game as Daniel Cormacks header rattled the bar with the keeper beaten, The Vics did equalise after good work by John Harrold the ball fell to THURSBY who curled the ball by the keeper and into the top corner of the net. On the stroke of half time Cormack had the chance to put the Vics ahead but once again was denied by the crossbar with the keeper beaten. The 2nd half was a non- event until the 60th minute when Chris Reid's volley from the edge of the box was cleared off the line and Cormack blazed over the rebound from 6 yards, Tomintoul then had a brillaint chance to take the lead when McConnachie was played clear of the Vics defence and with only the keeper to beat, the play was pulled back by the referee for a foul on Ian Mitchell when really an advantage should have been played. With 15 minutes left to play the Vics had a brillaint oppurtunity to take the lead when Callum Christie ran clear of the Tomintoul defence only to make a mess of his attempted lob over the keeper. The winner for Portgordon did evntually come with 2 minutes to go as full back Keith Clark appeared out right wing and his low cross was turned in to the path of Mark WOOD who made no mistake from 6 yards.
Verdict: Hard fought victory for Portgordon in their toughest game so far this season. The Vics will be worried at how many chances they are missing and the mistakes are making defensively. MOTM - Graeme Thursby
Portgordon Vics: Barclay, Clark, McIntosh, Reid, Wood, Wilson, Christie (Collie), Thain, Thursby (Mair) Harrold (Greig) Cormack Unused Sub: McLean
Portgordon Vics 0 Bishopmill Villa 0
An uneventful game as your likely to ever see between the two title challengers with either keeper rarely tested. One of the few chances in the game fell to Alex Mcgregor after 15 minutes when he sliced wide Stuart Mcgettrik's low cross, Moments later Gary Burr watched his 25 yard drive go narrowly wide, Portgordon's first real chance came on the half hour when a after a scramble in the box Neil Mair low shot was well saved by the Bishopmill keeper, with half time approaching Bishopmill had a half chance as Mcgregor shot flashed across the face of goal and harmlessly out of play. The Vics created a golden opportunity from a corner when Wilson picked up the ball at the back post then put the ball back across the face of goal where Cormack and Greig stood on the 6 yard box, it was Cormack who got their first but his shot was well saved by the legs of Collie. The second half played out exactly the same as first with the game being a midfield tussle with each side failing to dominate and really trouble each others defences, The first of the matches two clear cut chances fell to Neil Mair of Portgordon who 8 yards from goal tried to flick the ball with his right foot by the onrushing keeper when really he stood a much better chance with breaking the deadlock with his left and Richard Collie saved easily. Moments later it was Bishopmill chance to spurn a rare opportunity to take the lead as Alex McGregor beat two men only to see his attempted dink over the on rushing keeper saved and the follow up cleared by Tony Greig, with this the game returned to the midfield battle with both teams cancelling each other out and were now resigned to long range efforts which never troubled either keeper.
Verdict- In what was always going to be a close match between the two title contenders a draw was definitely a fair result in a game where neither was able to enjoy a spell a dominance over there opponents, Both teams should see this as a point gained rather than two points dropped. MOTM - Chris Reid
Portgordon Vics: Barclay, Clark, Greig, Reid, Wood, Wilson, Christie (Harrold) Thain Mair (McLean) McIntosh, Cormack Unused Subs: Collie, Markuszewski & Campbell
Portgordon Vics 4 Portsoy 4
Portgordon threw away two valuable points in the title race race by throwing away a 3 goal lead to a battling Portsoy side. The home side took the lead with effectively their first attack, when Mike Campbell got onto a long ball and knocked it over the advancing Portsoy keeper Wood, which left the simple task of scoring into the empty net to Daniel CORMACK. Portsoy equalised almost straight away, when a goalmouth scramble ended with Neil RAE poked the ball home past Markuszewski. In the 15th minuted the home side were awarded a penalty when Campbell got in behind the defence and was taken down by Martin Hay, who was booked for his troubles. Mark WOOD stepped up and slotted home, sending the keeper the wrong way. The Vics continued to press with Campbell influencing the play, he had a chance to add a third when good link up play on the right hand side between Clark and Harrold lead to Campbell racing through but fired over the bar. The Vics won a series of corners, and nearly scored when the ball broke to the edge of the box and was met sweetly by the right foot of Graeme Collie, who was unlucky to see his effort go wide of the upright. The second half started with some early pressure from Portsoy but they were caught on the break when Campbell picked out CORMACK 25 yards out who scored with an audacious lob over the keeper to make it 3-1. Cormack nearly had his hatrik after good build up play but fired just wide of the far post with a deft right footed shot. It soon was four when Mark Wood crossed for Cormack to beat Riach in the air, full back Gauld tried to usher the ball out of play but Substitute Darren THAIN fired home from an angle with his left foot. Portsoy changed their tactics and it paid off when the grabbed a second with 65 minutes gone when Lumsden played a great ball across the face of goal for the unmarked Colin MCRAE to fire home. This goal gave Portsoy the confidence to push on, and Neil Rae came close with a 25 yard drive that just went wide of the post. The away side did get the goal they deserved on the 70th minute when a slip from Mark McIntosh at the back let in Colin McRae who cut the ball back to Rennie but Portgordon defender CLARK, in attempt to stop the striker scoring slice the ball into the bottom corner. Portsoy should have equalised, when Sean Wood ran clear of the home defence but was denied by Markuszewski who dived well to save, but the rebound fell to Wood who cut it back to Phil Gray who fired the ball over the bar with an open goal gaping. Portsoy did get their fourth goal when a free kick from Hay found RAE who's stooping header looped over the Vics keeper. Portgordon had a golden chance to win the game when Harrold was played through by Mark Wood, after great run from midfield, but the striker fired wide of the near post, which meant the game ended in a draw.
Verdict: Two big points dropped from Portgordon who may look back at this game come end of the season and regret surrending a three goal lead, but they must pick themselves up for next weeks Mike Simpson Cup quarter final away to Tomintoul. MOTM - Daniel Cormack
Portgordon Vics: Markuszewski Clark Greig Reid (Thain) Wood Wilson McIntosh Collie Campbell Harrold Cormack Unused sub: Morrison
Tomintoul 1 Portgordon Vics 2
Portgordon progressed to the semi final of the Mike Simpson Cup for the first time in their history with a hard fought victory at Tomintoul in scorching heat. The Vics, who were missing six players for the game, welcolmed Gary Innes into the starting line up for the first time this season. The first real effort of the game came from a Christie corner, which hit the bar and fell to the head of John Harrold who nodded it back towards the home sides goal, only for Anthony Wilson to flick wide with his back to goal. Christie came close this time with a free kick from a position on the left flank, which whistled just wide of the far post. Tomintoul came more into the game on the half hour mark but could not find a way past the Vics back four, who were causing themselves more problems with some dodgy passbacks. The best move of the match came on the half hour mark when some intricate passing between Greig, Campbell and Harrold lead to left back Greig having a great chance to score his second of the season, but he could not apply the finish that the move deserved as he shot straight at Rose. The Vics did open the scoring soon after, when HARROLD disposessed Tomintoul defender Irvine in the corner before beating Innes and Mitchell and his cross come shot was deflected past Rose for his 7th of the season. Tomintoul equalised just before half time when a long ball from Mitchell beat the Vics defence and Adam Irvine ran through, but his shot hit the bar and came back out, but was headed back into the box by Robertson who found IRVINE who with his back to goal turned and found the bottom corner of the net. The second half started much the same as the first with the Vics controlling the majority of play without creating the chances to re-take the lead. Jamie Barclay pulled off two great stops to keep his side level, first from Iain Innes who nipped in at the front post to toe poke an effort on goals but the Vics keeper saved well. Irvine played in Ian Mitchell moments later who was left with the simple chance of slotting home, but Barclay pounced at the strikers feet to smother the ball away. The Vics took the lead when Christie crossed in a free kick to the 6 yard box where Daniel CORMACK headed the ball goalwards, only to be denied by Rose, but the striker made no mistake with the rebound. As Tomintoul pushed on, they were caught on the break and Christie skipped past his man and curled a shot into the far corner only for the keeper to deny him with a great diving save. There was one last piece of drama when Adam Irvine collected a long ball over the top, despite looking suspiciously offside, the striker controlled the ball and smashed home but the Referee disallowed the goal due tom the striker controlling the ball with his hand.
Verdict: The Vics deserved the victory, with one of their better performances of late. It was good to see that despite missing several important players, the squad was still able to defeat a decent Tomintoul side, who have gave the Vics two hard games so far this season. MOTM: Jamie Barclay – He might not have had the busiest game he has had this season but he made two vital saves, if they had went in the Vics would be out the cup.
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Innes McIntosh Wilson Christie Thain Cormack Harrold Campbell Unused Subs: Morrison & Markuszewski
Bishopmill Villa 5-2 Portgordon Vics
Portgordon suffered there 1st defeat of the season at the wrong time as it was Bishopmill who progressed through to the Mike Simpson cup final, edging a close game in which the score line flattered the home side. The 1st chance of the game also through about the 1st goal as McGettrick of Villa back post cross found Paul BURR totally un-marked inside the 6 yard box to nod the home side in front. The Vics then went on to enjoy a spell of dominance and a good chance fell to Wilson inside the box after a series of crosses into the Villa box but the defenders half volley was tipped round the post by the home keeper, moments later brilliant chance to equalise was then missed by the Vics as Cormack was sent through by McIntosh only loft his shot well over the bar with only the keeper to beat. Villa were looking dangerous on the counter attack and when Gary Burr raced through on goal, a goal looked certain but as the midfielder dithered over whether to round the goalie or shoot Portgordon keeper Barclay raced out bravely and smothered the ball at his feet, however it was not long before Villa were to score a second. Gary Burr’s shot rebounded off the post to BREMNER standing suspiciously offside who had the easiest of tasks of passing the ball into the empty net. The Vics were given a lifeline on the stroke of half time as a quick free kick found Gary INNES alone in the box who's 12 yard header hit the post before rolling into the net with keeper Collie rooted to his spot. The 2nd half started as a frenzied midfield battle with either team being able to get there foot on the ball. The next goal was always going to be vital and it was the home side that got it, as Gary BURR created a yard of space for himself 20 yards out and his low shot flew into the goal off the palm of keeper Barclay. The Vics however once more fought back from a two goal deficit after Mcintosh was flattened in the box by Grant, the Referee had no choice but to award Portgordon a penalty which Mark WOOD stepped up to slot home. McIntosh was forced off injured from the challenge to be replace by the Vics only remaining sub Morrison. The game was nearly turned on his head as sub Morrison had a fantastic chance to equalise but blazed his wide of the near post. Villa seemed to use this as a warning shot and began to dominate the game created a few chances with which they should have done a lot better with, the most memorable McGettricks free header from 6 yards out which he failed to make proper contact with the goal gaping, The winning goal for Villa came with 15 minutes left to play as Portgordon defender Keith Clark was the subject of a horror tackle in the box by Mark Sim but the Referee somehow waved play on, giving Gary BURR the chance to slot home his second of the game past the advancing Barclay, with all subs already made the Vics were forced to play the remainder of the game with only 10men as Clark was forced off due to the challenge on him. Villa made their extra man advantage count moments later and made the game safe as Paul BURR got his 2nd of the game with the simplest of chances from 6 yards. In the final minutes the Vics had two of there most clear cut chances in the game as 1st Innes rattled the post with his half volley and Mark Wood should have done a lot better after dispossessing the centre half only to fire straight at the keeper.
Verdict- The Vics can feel harshly done by the score line as an even game where both teams had spells of dominance in the game and enough chances to win the game, however it was Villa who took more of there's and progress to the final. MOTM- Gary Innes
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Reid Wood Wilson Christie Thain Cormack (Collie) Innes McIntosh (Morrison)
Moray Social 3-7 Portgordon Victoria
A game billed as a close fought battle between two of the title challengers turned out to be anything but, as Portgordon blew away their opponents in the first half. The Vics first came within two minutes of kick off as a cross from Innes from the left hand side was headed back across goal by Graham McLean was met by Mark MCINTOSH with a bullet header into the far corner and set the Vics on their way. Portgordon nearly added a second straight from kick off, when full back Keith Clark received the ball from McLean and ran from his own half to the Moray Social box to hit the shot just wide of the far post. Portgordon second came soon after when Harrolds cross into the box was cleared to Callum CHRISTIE who shrugged off his man to fire low into the net and beyond the helpless King. Two was soon three as Christie broke clear of the Social defence and squared the ball to John HARROLD who was left with the simplest of chances to grab a goal against his old team. The scoring was finished for the 1st half when unlikely goal hero MCINTOSH bagged his second of the afternoon from 12 yards after a 'pass' from Graham Collie. Moray Social should have got a goal back when Downey played though Whitlock but his lob went over the bar. Only a great last ditch tackle from Chris Reid stopped Stuart from getting a goal back on the verge of half time. The second half brought no change to the flow of the game as the Vics were soon five up when MCINTOSH found himself with the freedom of the Social penalty box and bagged his 3rd of afternoon with a free header from a Clark cross, to leave the keeper helpless. It was six immediately after when Jamie Barclays long goal kick was won in the air by hatrik hero McIntosh who headed the ball into the path of HARROLD who dipped his shoulder and raced by Donald before finishing well with his left foot. As Portgordon rang the changes Social grabbed a consolation as Barry STEWART rifled the ball beyond Barclay from the edge of the box. Portgordons six goal advantage was soon restored as Innes was brought down in the box after a surging run down the line from left back, Callum CHRISTIE smashed home giving the keeper no chance from the spot. Social grabbed another consolation when STUART ran through with the Vics defence appealing for a previous foul as cooley slotted the ball by Barclay. Substitute Russell McLaughlin nearly grabbed a goal on his first appearance of the season with a bullet header which was well saved by King. Harrold nearly had his hatrik when he hit the ball sweetly on the half volley from a McIntosh pass, but his shot went wide of the far post. The score line was made a little more respectable as Social grabbed there third goal when MCLEOD was sent clear of the Vics defence and drilled the ball by Barclay from the angle.
Verdict- A routine victory for Portgordon who made the game safe early on and were able to coast to victory despite a late rally from their opponents as the Vics tired. MOTM- Mark Mcintosh
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark (McLaughlin) Thain Reid (Morrison) Innes Wilson Christie Collie McLean Harrold McIntosh (Thatcher)
Portgordon Vics 5 Banff Rovers 1
Portgordon booked their place in the quarter final of the Planwell Cup with a convincing 5-1 victory over bottom of the table banff, although they were given a close game in the first half. The Vics had youngster Alexander Thatcher making his full debut in goals, deputising for Jamie Barclay. The Vics first real chance came with 15 minutes gone when good play down the right led to Mark Wood flicking the ball over the top of the Banff Fraser for Christie to run onto, but his effort was well saved by Cameron in the away sides goal. Banff had several chances, mainly through Portgordon mistakes, Thatcher twice saved from Bruce, before the striker put the ball wide with the goal gaping. West forced Thatcher into another good save when the ball was given away outside the box, he skipped past Wilson but could not beat the keeper. Mike Campbell nearly opened the scoring before half time with an audacious chip from 35 yards but Cameron got back well to save. The Vics did open the scoring when good midfield play by Graham Collie, saw Mark Wood race through but he was to be denied by the Banff keeper three times, but the last rebound fell to MCINTOSH, who finished well to give the Vics the lead at half time. Banff nearly equalised just after the interval when a good cross from Colin West found Kyle Wilson free on the penalty spot but Thatcher was out quickly to grab the ball from the Banff midfielders feet. Callum Christie continued to torment Banffs left back Golebiewski, but was denied again by the legs of Cameron. From the resulting corner from Christie, Mark WOOD volleyed the ball into the roof of the net to make it 2-0. Banff got a goal back when Bruce crossed the ball in which cause a mix up between Wilson and Thatcher, left Kyle WILSON with the simple task of heading into the empty net. The Vics went back infront from another Christie corner, finding Gary Innes who volleyed across the face of goal for Mark WOOD to poke the ball over the line! Colin West almost got a goal back straight from kick off with a great shot from 30 yards out which struck the bar and came back out. The Vics introduced Russell McLaughlin for Mark McIntosh, and immediately was involved in the fourth goal, gbeating Trueman and playing through Collie who beat two men and laid the ball off to CHRISTIE, who moved the ball onto his left foot and smacked a great shot past Cameron which clipped the bar and went in. McLaughlin nearly grabbed a goal when Christie bet a few players, including the keeper before cutting it back to McLaughlin who took on the shot first time but dragged it just wide of the far post. Mark WOOD grabbed his hatrik when Christie whipped in another good corner, which gave the striker the simplest of headers from 2 yards out. Banffs night was made worse when goalkeeper, Jay Cameron was a shown a straight red card for a last man tackle on Callum Christie, with only minutes remaining.
Verdict: Comprehensive victory for the Vics but they made it more difficult than it should have been first half. They will face St Marnans away in the next round. MOTM: Mark Wood
Portgordon Vics: Thatcher Clark Thain Innes Wood Wilson Christie Collie McLean Campbell (Morrison) McIntosh (McLaughlin)
Bishopmill Villa 3-2 Portgordon Vics
In a traditionally even game between the two sides it was once again Bishopmill who made the made the most of their chances and closed the gap at the top to five points. The first real chance of the game fell to the home side when McGregor's pace took him by the Vics defence but with only the keeper to beat the striker went for power and blasted his shot into the side netting. After a few scrambles at either end, it was Portgordon who took the lead when Christies near post corner was flicked on by McLean and found Gary INNES who made no mistake from 6 yards. The goal seemed to give the Vics a new edge to there play and should have went 2 in front when Harrold beat the offside trap only to see his poor attempt at a lob sail harmlessly over the bar. However the second goal did come when McIntosh split the Villa defence with a through ball in which CHRISTIE won the footrace with defender Younie to cooley dispatch his shot into the bottom corner. Portgordon nearly made it three when John Harrold forced Bishopmill defender Grant into a mistake, with the striker almost certainly set to score the Ref blew his whistle for a foul that nobody else seemed to see. G.Burr forced Thatcher into a great save with a angled shot from the edge of the box, as half time approached. But with time running out in the first half Bishopmill got there goal when a mistake by Innes led to to keeper Thatcher having to make a clearance from the edge of his box when McGregor bearing down on him, but the clearance fell to Gary BURR 30 yards who curled it into the empty net. With the second half barely minutes old Portgordon had a chance to re-establish there two goal advantage when Christie was sent clear of the defence but with the goal at his mercy he delayed and delayed before taken his shot and the danger was eventually cleared. Villa equalized when the Vics lost possesion from their own throw in, as a long ball through the middle somehow managed to evade the Vics defence and MCGREGOR calmly chipped over Thatcher who'd came rushing off his line. The Vics suffered a major blow when Mark Wood had to go off after a shocking tackle from Grant, and was replace by Cormack. With the scores now level the game descended into a scrappy midfield affair with fee chances for either team, However it was Bishopmill who completed there comeback from two down as the Vics lost another sloppy goal with the short corner not being closed down and Fraser's blocked shot fell to BREMNER 8 yards out who drilled by Thatcher on the angle. The goal woke Portgordon up who created numerous chances to win the game but just couldn't find the finish with the closest being when Mcintosh cross was diverted onto the post only for Mair to fail to the connection when the tiniest of touches would have took the ball across the line. John Harrold nearly equalised when Bish goalie Collie passed the ball straight to the strikers feet 25 yards out but his chip narrowly went by the post. Substitute Daniel Cormack nearly grabbed an equaliser when good play down the right hand side between Harrold and McLean, saw the latter deliver a great ball but Cormack header just over the bar. Bishopmill had a final chance to double there lead on the counter attack as Burr was somehow deemed to be onside, but his attempt at goal was more like a pass back, which keeper Thatcher caught with ease. The Vics launched the ball into the Bishopmill box in the last five minutes but the ball would not break for them, several attempt at goal were blocked by brave Villa defending, who held on to end the Vics unbeaten run in the league.
Verdict- A good performance by the Vics who created enough chances to win the game but once again it was not to be as Bishopmill made the most of there's and come away with the three points. MOTM - Gary Innes
Portgordon Vics: Thatcher Clark Thain Innes Wood (Cormack) Wilson Christie (Mair) McLaughlin (Morrison) McLean Harrold McIntosh
Portgordon Vics 6 Rothes A 0
The Vics cruised into the next round of the WJ Tewnion cup with an emphatic victory over fellow Premier Division side Rothes A. The home side played some of the best passing football they have played all season. Despite the dominant scoreline it was Rothes who started the better side with midfielder Mark Smith having the first real effort on goal after ten minutes, when he collected the ball on the edge of the box and struck the post with a right footed shot that Markuszewski appeared to have covered. The Vics should have taken the lead with their first real chance when neat build up play between Mair and Collie, saw John Harrold released on goal but the striker tried to chip the keeper and saw his shot go over the bar. Neil Mair was the next culprit to miss a chance to put the home side in the lead when Harrold sent him through, Mair went past Rothes defender Scott on the edge of the box but fired his effort wide of the far post. Good play down the left hand side from Russell McLaughlin, who beat 3 players before playing the ball across goal to debutant Scott Davidson but his shot was well saved by Slessor. The Vics took the lead in the 31st minute when a McIntosh corner was met by the foot of Graham Collie, but his effort was well saved, but MAIR made no mistake with the rebound. Rothes nearly equalised from a corner when the initial ball was cleared, only as far as
Verdict: Good performance from the Vics, who scored some good goals and played some really good football. What made the performance more impressive, was the fact that the Vics were missing as many as ten players. As well as scoring goals it was important to keep another cleansheet. MOTM – Neil Mair
Portgordon Vics: Markuszewski Clark Thain (L.Morrison) Reid McIntosh Wilson Davidson Collie (A.Morrison) Mair Harrold McLaughlin (Slater)
Portgordon Vics 3 Burghead United 4
A disappointing result for Portgordon who failed to up their performance to the next level when it really mattered. The first goal scoring opportunity fell to Daniel Terry of Burghead ran clear of the Vics defence but his well placed shot was saved well by Barclay with Reid doing enough to put him off his stride, although it was the 1st of many chances that fell to the forward as his pace caused the home side problems all game. The Vics created their first chance when McIntosh found himself free inside the box but his left footed shot was well stop by the leg of Gordon, although the midfielder might have been better off squaring the ball for Mair. At the other end a certain goal was saved with a magnificent tackle from
Verdict: The Vics will be very disappointed, not just with the result but with their overall performance. They did not test the Burghead keeper enough and presented Burghead with too many opportunities to score. The Vics travel to Rothes A on Sunday, which is a must win game to keep their title aspirations on track. MOTM - Jamie Barclay.
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Thain Reid McIntosh Wilson (Cormack) Davidson Collie (Wood) Mair Harrold (Thursby)
Rothes A 3 Portgordon Vics 5
The Vics got back to winning ways in the league with a victory over Rothes A, which should have been a lot more comprehensive. The Vics made three changes with Graham McLean, Mark Wood and Tony Greig returning to the starting line up with Mike Campbell, Darren Thain and the injured Graham Collie making way. Top scorer John Harrold nearly opened the scoring in the opening minute when a long ball from Wood was missed by Rothes defender Franklin, but the Vics frontman fired his half volley wide of the far post. Rothes had the ball in the net from their first real attack when Thomson played in Neil Jack and the striker finished well from 25 yards out but the goal was rightly disallowed for offside. The home side had keeper Slessor to thank for keeping the scoreline level when he made a good save from a Greig header after a great corner was delivered by
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Reid Wood Wilson Davidson McLean (Thain) Mair Harrold (Cormack) McIntosh Unused Subs: Slater, L.Morrison & A.Morrison
St Marnans 1 Portgordon Vics 4
Portgordon booked their place in their second semi final of the season with a victory over first division side St Marnans. The Vics had a ‘new’ goalkeeper with Captain Anthony Wilson dawning the gloves for the first time for the club. The first division side put in a very good account of themselves, taking a 1-0 lead into the interval. Portgordon dominated the early exchanges but created very little chances with the home defence dealing with most balls that came their way. Good link up play between Clark, McLean and Davidson lead to the full back crossing for Morrison to header wide of the far post. On the half hour mark the home side took the lead with their first attempt on goals, when Robertson won the ball in the middle of the park and played a great ball over the top of Greig, which was picked up by SIMPSON who ran to the byline and scored from a acute angle beating Wilson at his front post. The away side continued to pass the ball about despite this setback and nearly equalised immediately. Good play down the left hand side by Tony Greig, saw the full back cut in and shoot from an angle, but his shot was well stopped by Willox, the rebound fell to Greig who this time cut the ball back but there was no takers. St Marnans started the 2nd half well with Blanchard testing
Verdict: The Vics made hard work of this game but credit must go to the home side who gave a very good account of themselves. The Vics will now face another first division side in either Hopeman or Elgin Albion in the semi final of the WJ Tewnion cup as they look to reach the final for the thrid time in a row. MOTM: Scott Davidson
Portgordon Vics: Wilson Clark Greig Reid Wood Thain (Collie) Davidson McLean (McIntosh) Thursby Christie L.Morrison Unused subs: Slater & Morrison
Portsoy 1 Portgordon Vics 6
Portgordon recorded an impressive win to regain top spot against a Portsoy side who have been in good form of late. The Vics were missing as many as eleven players, so had to draft in two trialists as well as Graham Collie playing as a makeshift striker for a day.
Portgordon opened the scoring as early as the 2nd minute when Chris Reid crossed the ball in from the right, and found the unmarked Graeme THURSBY who headed home from 6 yards giving Wood in the Portsoy goals no chance. It was soon 2-0, when trialist Paterson played McIntosh down the left, who bet his man before cutting the ball back to the unmarked COLLIE, who tapped home for his first of the season. It could have been three soon after when a long clearance from Innes caught out the home side defenders, Thursby ran through but fired his shot wide of the keepers far post. On the half hour mark it was three, when Paterson played COLLIE through who beat the offside trap before rolling the ball past on rushing keeper Wood and into the net for his second of the game. Portsoys first real opportunity infront of goal came when Smith found some space in the box to fire a shot towards goal but Barclay saved well. Portsoy did get a goal back just before half time catching the Vics on the break from a corner. Wilsons shot was cleared off the line by Hay, Smith was played in on the right hand side who cut the ball back to THOMPSON who fired home from 6 yards. Just when Portsoy thought they were back in the game, the Vics grabbed another goal, Chris REID firing home with a great right footed shot from 20 yards out after beating his man. The game was finished as a contest in the 47th minute when good closing down from Collie in the corner flag, who won the ball then gave it to Davidson who switched the play to McIntosh who's shot could not be held by Wood, Chris REID was on hand to notch his second of the game. Straight from the kick off Portsoy gave the ball away, Collie turned Riach brilliantly before releasing Thursby who tripped over the ball but got up and fired his shot just wide of the post. Portsoy began to come into the game, a good move involving Lumsden and S.Wood saw Phil Gray through on goal but the striker hit the post on the hour mark. A defensive mix up between Gary Innes and Anthony Wilson, saw Smith through but he also hit the post, it was not going to be the home sides day. Portsoy created another chance almost immediately when Lumsden was through one on one but the midfielder's shot was well saved by Barclay, and the rebound fell to Gray but his tame shot was easily cleared by Greig. The Vics made it six when sub Thatcher won the ball from Riach and played a great ball to THURSBY who rounded the keeper and slotted home from an angle to finish the scoring.
Verdict: A great win for the Vics in a game which was viewed as a potential difficult game. They played some good football and took their chances for a change. The Vics have a free week next week but have Aberlour Villa at home on the 30th of August in the league. MOTM - Graham Collie
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Greig Innes Reid Paterson (L.Morrison) Wilson Davidson (Grant) Thain Thursby Collie (Thatcher) McIntosh
Unused sub: A.Morrison
Portgordon Vics 1 Aberlour Villa 1
The two teams played out an entertaining draw at Gordon Park, with the home side having the better chances in the game. The opening exchanges saw very few chances as both teams attacks came to nothing with some good defending on show. The first real opportunity of the game came when good play from Mike Campbell saw Mark McIntosh race clear down the left hand side but his left footed shot was well saved by Ness at the near post. 20 minutes in, McIntosh was again causing problems down the left, and his cross found Scott Davidson in the box, who turned his man but fired wide with his path to goal blocked. On the half hour mark, Andy Matheson's free kick was well saved by Ness, and from the resultant corner Matheson dummied for Tony Greig who's shot shaved the outside of the post and went behind. Aberlour created their first real chance just before half time when a long ball From Chalmers found James Grant running through but the striker fired wide from the edge of the box. There was a moment of controversy when Campbell sent Collie through, as the striker got into the box he appeared to be fouled by both Aberlour defenders as the ball rolled to Aberlour keeper Ness, but no penalty was given. The Vics started the second half brightly, with Anthony Wilson heading just over from a McIntosh corner. This was to the cental defenders last contribution in the game, from the following goal kick Wilson went up and won the header but Aberlour midfielder Coutts appeared to elbow him in the face as he challenged for the ball, but no foul was given. The Vics went behind in the 55th minute when a loose ball was picked up 30 yards out by Kenny Wilson who fired an unstoppable shot past Barclay which hit the upright but James GRANT was on hand to head home to put his side ahead. Aberlour pushed on, obviously spurred on by their goal, only a great stop by Jamie Barclay denied Scott McPherson who hit a a well struck shot from the edge of the box. Substitute John Harrold nearly equalised when he went by Wilson down the left hand side and fired in a great right footed shot which hit the bar and came back out, the loose ball was well cleared by the Aberlour defence. Aberlour nearly made it two, when Chalmers played in Darren Mitchell who ran through but his effort was well saved by Barclay. The Vics did get a deserved equaliser when Andy Matheson played the ball left to Campbell who in turn played a great ball through to Tony GREIG, who went past his man before clipping a great left footed shoot over Ness and into the far corner of the net. The Vics nearly went infront when a long throw from Greig found the feet of Neil Mair, who controlled the ball on his chest before volleying the ball goalwards with his back to goal, but his strike hit the bar and bounced out of play. The home side felt hard done by when Neil Mair was taken down in the box with the goal gaping but the referee adjudged the Aberlour defender to have won the ball. It looked like it defintely not going to be Portgordon's day when Scott Davidson beat Chalmers before hitting a shot goalwards which looked certain to go in but Robertson got the slightest of touches on the ball which deflected the ball onto the bar and out for a corner. Christie whipped in the corner which was cleared by Robertson but fell to Campbell who floated the ball back into Davidson who shot from an angle but Kenny Wilson cleared the ball off the line and out for another corner. In the dying seconds the Vics could have won it when the ball fell to Tony Greig on the edge of the box who played it to Mair who turned his man but his shot flew over the bar.
Verdict: A good performance from the Vics who will be disappointed not to have won the game having controlled most of the game and created so many chances. Next up for Portgordon is last years champions Moray Social at home in the league. MOTM - Mike Campbell
Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Reid Matheson Wilson (Christie) Davidson Campbell Mair Collie (Harrold) McIntosh Unused Subs: Cormack & Morrison
Portgordon Vics 2 Moray Social 0
Portgordon picked up a vital win as they continue to look on course for their first league title. The home side controlled most of the game and probably should have won by a greater margin. The Vics thought they had taken the lead with 10 minutes played when Mark Wood challenged for a high ball with Moray Social goalkeeper Anderson, the Vics midfielder headed the ball into the back of the net but was adjudged to have fouled the keeper. Wood again came close from a Christie corner at the near post which he clipped round the outside of the post. The Visitors first and only meaningful attempt on goal the whole game came when, Mann played a good ball inside to
Verdict: An impressive victory for Portgordon who controlled the game from start to finish. This was a vital victory against last years league champions which puts the Vics three points closer to claiming their first league title, but there is still alot of hard work left to do. Next up is the Planwell Cup semi final against First Division leaders Brander away from home. MOTM - Tony Greig
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Reid Wood Wilson Christie Davidson (McLean) Mair (Collie)
Unused Subs: Thain Morrison Slater
Brander 1 Portgordon Vics 3
Portgordon booked their place in the final of the Planwell Cup next month with a good victory over First Division leaders Brander. The Vics made three changes to the team that defeated Moray Social last week, in came Graeme Thursby, Daz Thain and Andy Matheson with Mark Wood and Chris Reid unavailable, while Scott Davidson dropped to the bench. The first chance of the game fell to Portgordon with McIntosh playing Mair through but the strikers right footed shot was well saved by Bruce in the home goals. Mair had a similar chance not long after but this time the ball bobbled as he was away to pull the trigger and fell to a Brander defender. The home sides first attempt on target came when a good cross from McLurg fell to Whittle but the striker fired a tame shot towards Barclay who save the ball with ease. In the 25th minute, Portgordon took the lead when Daz THAIN picked up a loose ball 25 yards out and curled the ball into the top corner with his left foot leaving Bruce with no chance. Bruce was to have a busy spell with good saves from McIntosh and Greig to keep his side in the game. From a Christie corner, the ball fell to Mike Campbell in the box, who struck the ball sweetly on the half volley, but his shot was brilliantly blocked by Shane Duthie. Anthony Wilson had a chance right on half time to make it 2-0 but he headed wide at the back post when it looked easier to score. The home side came out the second half and pinned back their opponents, but to no avail with Portgordon defending well. However it was the away side who created the first real chance of the half, when Neil Mair ran through on goal with just the keeper to beat but he squared the ball to strike partner Graeme Thursby, but the strikers shot was well blocked on the line by Farquhar. On the hour mark, Portgordon caught their opponents on the break when Tony Greig played a great ball through to Mark MCINTOSH, who ran down the left wing before cutting in to finish well. A poor clearance from Tony Greig left David Findley with the simple task of stabbing the ball home from 6 yards but Portgordon defender Keith Clark got back in time to hook the ball out of play. Findlay came close again and would have pulled a goal back for Brander if it had not been for a great save from Jamie Barclay who tipped the ball over the bar for a corner. In the 70th minute the home side did get their goal when a miscued clearance from Anthony Wilson fell to Stephen MITCHELL who met the ball with a bullet header which hit the post and went in to give his side a glimmer of hope. Portgordon killed the game off with ten minutes remaining, when a Callum Christie corner was met by Captain Anthony WILSON who headed home to secure his sides place in the cup final.
Verdict: Good win for Portgordon who will play in the Planwell Cup Final for the first time. The whole team performed well with not a bad performance in the team, with Brander giving Portgordon a tough game. The final will be played at Buckie Thistle's Victoria Park on the 3rd of October against Bishopmill Villa, who defeated Burghead United on penalties in the other semi. MOTM - Andy Matheson
Portgordon Vics: Barclay Clark Greig Matheson Thain Wilson Christie Campbell Thursby (Harrold) Mair McIntosh (Morrison)
Unused Subs: Davidson McLean
Buckie United 1 Portgordon Vics 2
Verdict: Not a vintage performance but it was enough to seal the league title for Portgordon, that the players have worked so hard for all season. Credit must go to Buckie United, who despite missing several players put in a battling display. Congratulations to Portgordon but the season is not over yet with the Planwell Cup Final against their nearest challengers in the league this season, Bishopmill Villa. The game will be played at Buckie Thistle’s Victoria Park. MOTM: Neil Mair