University of Stirling 0 – 2 Celtic B, Lowland League

Two first-half penalties from Lewis Dobbie made the difference as the University of Stirling failed to break down an organised Celtic B.

Despite putting in a hard shift of running, chances were few and far between for the Uni in a sticky game where they didn’t pose any real threat to their opponents, who enjoyed the lion’s share of possession.

The visitors were quick to assert their authority on the game, with Bruno Davidson causing problems for the home defence down the right and Kyle Ure pulling strings in midfield.

Dobbie at the double

Uni keeper Max Davila was unlucky to find himself in no man’s land, clattering an onrushing Celtic B attacker to concede a penalty on the 18-minute mark. Celts striker Lewis Dobbie sent Davila the wrong way to break the deadlock.

And although Stokes, Heal and Morris made incursions into the Celtic B half, the visiting defenders stifled the Uni’s few efforts before they could get within striking distance.

Stirling captain Marcus Lavery was unfortunate to give away a penalty just before half-time, catching a Celtic B attacker in the box. Davila saved the initial effort but the ball fell kindly for Dobbie to add his and Celtic B’s second.

The second half brought an energised performance from the Stirling team with several fresh faces introduced, but chances were again at a premium.

Next match

University of Stirling FC now turn their attention to the Queens Park Shield final on Wednesday 10 April, where they look to retain the shield against Heriot-Watt University, who the Students defeated in last year’s final. Kick off is 2pm at the Oriam Sports Centre, Edinburgh.

Match photography

Match photography: https://georgevekicphotography.pixieset.com/uniofstirlingvcelticb/

Lineup

University of Stirling: Davila, Lavery, Service, Aslanoglu, Jeanes, Heal, Stokes, Morris, Russell, Manomey, Vonk. 

Subs used: McAninch, Wallace, Scally, Woloszyn, McKinley.