Match report

Tuesday 30 July, 2019, Lowland League

University of Stirling football coach Chris Geddes has urged his players to capitalise on their chances after watching his team suffer a narrow defeat in their first game of the season.

In a close-fought encounter at Christie Gillies Park in Edinburgh, the first team lost 1-0 to Civil Service Strollers in the Lowland League.

The Strollers started the match the better side and stretched the University defence, before opening the scoring on 12 minutes. Callum Yeats delivered a deep cross, which Stirling goalkeeper Kevin Walker could only tip onto the toes of onrushing Alieau Faye – his shot rebounded into the path of defender Andy Mair who turned home from close range.

Despite the early lead, the University remained in the match and striker Kieran Hall almost levelled on 20 minutes, but his effort was well saved by the Strollers goalkeeper.

The University produced a dominating second half performance and chances fell to Euan Baird, James Berry, Matthew Burrows and Jason Jarvis – but they were unable to find the net.

Speaking after the match, Geddes said: “This was a game we didn’t deserve to lose – but if you don’t take your chances you don’t win football games and we didn’t score tonight.

“Civil played well and it was an even game at times, but we dominated play in the second half. It is at times like that – when we are in control – that we need to capitalise on our chances.

“Our attentions now turn to our next match – against Berwick on Saturday.”

Berwick Rangers – relegated from the Scottish Professional Football League last year – lost their opening league match 5-3 to Midlothian side Bonnyrigg Rose. Saturday’s match will take place at Shielfield Park, Berwick, with a 3pm kick-off.

The University’s next home match – played at Forthbank Stadium – will take place on August 10, against Cumbernauld Colts. Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for concessions / students.

University team v Civil Service Strollers: Walker, Burrows, Webb, Mailer, Downie, Berry, Doan (Baird, 68’), Jarvis (Kennedy, 75’), Brown, Peden (McGale, 57’), Hall.

Goals: Civil Service Strollers: Andy Mair (12’)