The University of Stirling men’s first team defeated Nottingham University 2-0 at home in the BUCS league on Wednesday.
A superb first half volley from Ciaran McAninch and a strike from James Russell proved to be enough for the University against a well drilled Nottingham side.
Head coach Chris Geddes said, “We had to compete physically and it was tough going at times, they’re a good side. I think our quality showed at the right times”.
“We’re defending better, we’re keeping clean sheets, and we’re coming up against a good side in Bo’ness on Sunday. We know it’s going to be tough but it’s a game we think we can win”.
It was a cagey opening ten minutes in the windy conditions, with both sides not giving up much in an attacking sense.
However, Stirling Uni midfielder Ciaran McAninch would break the deadlock.
In the 12th minute, a ball was whipped in from the right, and McAninch connected, hitting his volley into the top right corner of the net.
Outside of the goal, chances were limited for both sides in the first half.
Stirling goalkeeper Jay Davila was called into action just before the break.
The away side struck a free kick which forced the keeper into a good save, with the ball looking certain to find its way in to the far corner.
Nottingham would have another chance to equalise early into the second half.
They got in behind the Uni defence, and a ball was fizzed across the six yard line, however Nottingham striker Mosh shanked it wide of the post.
Stirling would soon get into their rhythm again.
The ball was sprayed across to the right wing to Mirzasalimov, who got past two defenders well and passed to McKinley in the box, and his strike forced a good low save from Nottingham keeper Alex Akers.
Nottingham University continued to put the pressure on Stirling, as crosses began flying in, causing issues for the home side.
Their inability to find the killer pass would soon haunt them.
After the ball was played short from a Stirling corner in the 85th minute, James Russell’s cross-turned shot curled into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance- sealing the three points for the hosts.
After the victory against Nottingham, it makes it three wins on the bounce for Stirling University, who will now face Bo’ness United in the Lowland League on Sunday at Forthbank Stadium. Kick off is at 3pm.
Featured image credit: George Vekic Photography