Kilsyth Rangers chalk up much-needed points

Stagecoach West of Scotland Super League, First Division

This was Rangers’ first visit to the new John Cumming stadium at Carluke, the new home of Carluke Juniors but currently being used by Lesmahagow since their own ground was badly affected by flooding.

Situated on top of a hill it was a windswept venue for what could be a crucial game for Rangers in their fight to avoid relegation and they met the challenge to take all three points and move closer to their rivals.

The game kicked of on the new 3G pitch surrounded by an international standard running track and the small crowd of spectators huddled in the covered enclosure trying to find some shelter from the near gale sweeping across the ground.

The Rangers team had a slightly unfamiliar look with Phil Dolan absent on duty with the British deaf international squad, and new signing Conor Kelly wearing the number nine jersey in place of McLaren who had moved out to the wide role.

Both sides were finding it quite difficult to cope with the strong cross winds but gradually Rangers were gaining the advantage with some good crosses coming over from Fran Kelly to his namesake who was showing up very well in the striker role. It was the combined efforts of these two who brought the first goal after 17 minutes with Conor Kelly finishing well. A couple of minutes later and Fran Kelly came close with a header.

A good save by Barnes just after the half hour prevented C. Kelly making it a double.

It was a great day for the Kellys when Barnes could only parry a shot from Fran and following up, the same player struck home.

For the full report see this week’s Cumbernauld News and Kilsyth Chronicle - on sale now!