Misery for Blue Brazil goes on as Warriors inflict another defeat

Cowdenbeath slumped to a fourth consecutive defeat as Stenhousemuir deservedly claimed the spoils at Ochilview.

It was often backs-tothe-wall stuff for Gary Bollan’s men who were clearly feeling the effects of having played just 48 hours earlier.

After a dearth of goalmouth action during the opening exchanges Stenhousemuir were first to have a shot at goal but Ryan Blair’s long-range effort on 14 minutes was comfortably held by Nicky Hogarth.

The Warriors proceeded to exert a spell of pressure without causing serious concerns for the Blue Brazil’s defence.

But Hogarth was called into serious action again on 24 minutes when he pulled off a stunning save to keep out Tommy Muir’s net-bound header following a cross from the left.

Jamie Todd and Fraser Mullen both picked up bookings as the visitors’ defensive resolve continued to be put to the test.

That examination continued when the home side forced four corners in quick succession but again they were unable to find a way passed Hogarth.

The Blue Brazil managed to reach halftime without conceding a goal but also without ever threatening to score one.

It was a similar story on the restart with Muir nodding narrowly wide as Stenhousemuir renewed their quest for the breakthrough.

And the opener finally arrived on 50 minutes when Botti Biabi swung in a free kick from the left and Callum Yeats met it with a header which soared high into the top left-hand corner.

It was the on-loan Hibs youngster’s first senior goal and one which left Hogarth with no chance.

Cowdenbeath finally mustered a shot on the hour mark but Harvey Swann’s left-footed 20-yarder was just wide.

Jonathan Tiffoney shot wide before Hogarth saved from Adam Corbett as the Warriors searched for a clinching goal and the visitors desperately tried to stay in contention.

Bollan’s men came close to an equaliser on 80 minutes when Robbie Buchanan’s angled drive forced Paddy Martin into a smart save.

But there was late rally. to be no