Spirited Shotts downed at Benburb

Benburb ................ 3 Shotts ................... 2 Shotts Bon Accord left New Tinto Park empty-handed despite a spirited performance.

Looking to avenge their 1-0 defeat last September, Shotts got off to a terrible start when a defensive mix-up between Murdoch and Martin led to the home side opening the scoring in just three minutes as Murdoch’s clearance came off O’Hear back into the net.

The visitors were stung into action and Martin played a low corner for Sutherland, whose clever dummy let McHaffie drill a low shot that Hollis did well to turn behind.

Another good move from Shotts started with Sullivan laying off to Cummins, who flicked on to Sutherland who teed up Sullivan on the edge of the area. His low drive whizzed past the near post.

Shotts levelled the game after half an hour when they won a free kick 22 yards out. Martin stepped up to slam past Hollis.

Their lead was short- lived as the home side immediately went back in front through Livingston, who swivelled 20 yards out and fired past the helpless Murdoch.

Shotts started the second half brightly and levelled the match after just five minutes, with Burns latching on to a loose ball and drilling past Hollis to make it 2-2.

They could not hold on to the lead though as Benburb’s McLaren latched on to a ball in the box before chesting past Murdoch from close range.

Shotts tried everything to get back level and almost managed it when sub Watson raced into the box on the far side of the pitch.

Hollis blocked the low shot with his legs to retain Bens’ lead and bag all three points.

Shotts’ next match is at home to Whitletts Vics on Saturday in the West of Scotland Cup second round.