A LAST-GASP BLAIR DRAW
Visitors show character in Dundee
Blairgowrie equalised in the final stages to secure a valuable point against Dundee North End in the league on Saturday.
Trailing going into the final minute, on a day when not much had gone right for the Davie Park side, forward Allan Cruickshank fired home a brilliant header to give the 10-man visitors a richlydeserved point.
This was a really good display by Billy Mackay’s men, despite having eight players missing owing to fitness issues or work commitments.
This situation was compounded by further injuries sustained during the match and the dismissal of Mark Brash, who was adjudged to have denied the hosts a goalscoring opportunity after an hour.
Blairgowrie dominated the opening exchanges, with Rudi Brown providing a series of dangerous crosses and Gary Axworthy seeing a shot well blocked.
North End came into the game and Blair keeper Gordon O’Brien had to look lively to tip over a looping header.
North End had the lion’s share of possession, often in their own territory, but it was Blair who looked dangerous and were unlucky to be denied a penalty when a defender appeared to handle the ball in the box, but the referee was unsighted.
After the break, Blair again started well and Cruickshank was denied by an outstanding save.
There was consternation when ex-Blair defender Burns was cautioned and then immediately held back Cruickshank who was running on to a through pass, but again the official was unable to see the incident.
Following this came Brash’s dismissal and Blair were up against it.
O’Brien made a great double save, tipping the follow-up shot onto the crossbar.
Just when they appeared to be settling, with James Simpson dominant, North End took advantage of a slip to take the lead.
Cruickshank was repeatedly denied by the home ‘keeper and another two penalty claims were turned down.
Paul Maloney was injured at the second of these incidents and was replaced by Steven Findlay, who saw a flashing header brilliantly saved.
Finally, in the 90th minute, came that spectacular equaliser by Cruickshank, assisted by a venomous Axworthy corner, which sparked celebrations among the sizable travelling support.
This Saturday, Blairgowrie are at home to Lochore Welfare in the North League. Kick-off 1.30pm.
● This week’s Blairgowrie Juniors FC berry-pickers’ weigh-in numbers were 2, 8, 9 and 10. There were no winners, meaning the jackpot next week is £550.