Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Defeat to Saints is a reality check
But Bonham not panicking after opening defeat
Ger ry Bonham insists Gartcairn’s opening-day defeat should act as a wake-up call to his players.
The Airdrie men lost 2- 0 to St Anthony’s at McKenna Park in their Central District Second Division opener at the weekend.
Gartcairn also had defender Ryan Kennedy sent-off in the second half.
But gaffer Bonham isn’t panicking having been encouraged with his side’s showing in the Sectional League Cup.
The focus is now on the club’s first home league game with Dunipace the visitors to MTC Park this Saturday (kickoff 2pm).
Bonham said: “I was disappointed given the way we performed in the League Cup but the better team won on the day. It was a bit of a reality check for us.
“I thought the start of the game was fairly even and it looked like two teams who will be up there come the end of the season.
“We had a couple of half chances but never kicked on. Losing a goal so close to half-time was gutting.
“I think that was a turning point although we were positive at half-time and knew the next goal would change the game. “Unfortunately, they got it. “I’m not being too hard on the boys. A bad game doesn’t make you a bad team.”
Bonham continued: “We lost two cheap goals which is frustrating although St Anthony’s played some good football.
“The goals – and Ryan’s red card – kind of summed up our day.
“We have to build on the positives and appreciate that we lost to a team who were relegated from the First Division last season and want to go back up.”
•PLAYERS WANTED: Young Pumas 2007s are looking to add a goalkeeper to their squad.
Training takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays with games on Saturdays.
Those interested should call Mark on 07711 010581.
Meanwhile, Coatbridge’s Burnbank Boys’ Club are looking for players born in 2007 and 2008.
Contact Steven Smith for more details on 07904 018572.
And Airdrie’s Craigburn Boys’ Club require players born in 2004 for all positions as they prepare for 11-a-side football.
Get in touch with Scot Cullen on 07932 930757.
• NETBALL : St Andrew’s Netball Club’s junior section starts back at St Andrew’s High School in Coatbridge on Wednesday, September 7.
Under-11s and Under-13s training is from 5pm to 6pm. Under-15s play from 6pm to 7pm.