The University of Stirling men’s first team gave themselves the perfect Christmas present, beating Edinburgh University 4-1 on Boxing Day.

In what was the first of two back-to-back games between the two sides, goals from Abel Manomey, Cameron McKinley and a brace for Ciaran McAninch secured all three points in Edinburgh.

Head Coach Chris Geddes said: “I’m really pleased with that win considering we only had 13 first-team players available.”

“The pitch was really heavy but we handled it well and should’ve had a few more goals, but to get four goals and an away win was great.”

Stirling imposed themselves well from kickoff with forward pressure and possession causing early concerns for the Edinburgh defence. Manomey found Jack Doherty in the box but his shot was blocked well.

A defensive slip-up then saw McAninch break through into the box, finding Manomey who made himself enough room to finish powerfully.

One nearly became two just after half an hour as McKinley looked to beat the offside trap, but he was adjudged to be offside after finishing well.

Stirling didn’t have to wait much longer though as McAninch burst into the box from the left and after some clever footwork, found space to slot home.

Despite being behind, Edinburgh kept possession well throughout the half. Jay Maxwell Davila remained strong though to hold a number of strikes safely.

Edinburgh continued momentum into the second half and halved the Stirling lead on 53 minutes through a strong finish from the striker.

The visitors eased the pressure 10 minutes later though as McAninch grabbed another. McKinley battled strongly to open up space for McAninch to score.

Stirling took control of the game after their third goal and had the chance to add a fourth with 20 minutes to play. James Stokes was played through but the Edinburgh defence stayed strong, then McKinley followed up with a second chance but he fired wide.

McKinley would finally get his goal on 85 minutes though to ensure all three points, battling through the Edinburgh defence to get his reward for a selfless performance.

Full-time saw Stirling earn a deserved three points. The two will meet again in just three days when Edinburgh travel to Forthbank on Saturday.

University of Stirling: Davila, Lavery, Service, Morris, Russell (Woloszyn), Scally, Docherty (Malcolm), McAninch, Stokes, McKinley (Muir), Manomey (Laird).