Pollok held off a spirited fightback from Kirkintilloch Rob Roy to claim a Sectional League Cup final berth at a drizzly Newlandsfield Park. Pollok made two changes from the side that had drawn with Shotts Bon Accord at the weekend, with Alan Waddell and Derek Heaton replacing Robert Downs and Davie Turnbull.

The visitors opened brightly with Ryan Deas firstly testing Kris Robertson with an early header, then releasing team-mate Brian Vaugh, only to see Robertson dive at his feet to make the save. It was to be the home side who took the lead, however, after 17 minutes. Andy McClay played the ball across the 6-yard box, and although it was beyond the reach of Bryan Dingwall, ANDY ESSLER was in position to slot the ball home from a tight angle. Dingwall then went close with a snapshot from a Gary Wilson throw-in before Rob Roy had to make a change with Garry Carberry leaving the field to be replaced by Paul Gallacher.

'Lok extended their lead moments later when Ross O'Donoghue played a quick free-kick to Stevie Aitchison. His cross was met at the back post by the head of ALAN WADDELL, who made no mistake and doubled the advantage. Pollok took a three goal lead on the half-hour mark when Waddell struck a 20-yard effort that was touched onto the bar by Kevin Bell, but the rebound fell to BRYAN DINGWALL who snapped up the opportunity from just outside the 6-yard box. O'Donoghue then forced another save from Bell with a rasping free-kick that was tipped over the bar.

Stephen McPeake picked up the first booking of the match within seconds of the restart, and was joined shortly afterwards by Jonathan Carter after a foul on Dingwall. The game should have been beyond doubt after 57 minutes when Pollok made it 4-0. A long free-kick from Robertson was headed by Essler into the path of ALAN WADDELL, who controlled the ball before volleying it powerfully beyond Bell. Rob Roy were given a glimmer of hope, however, six minutes later when a long ball found RYAN DEAS in acres of space on the left-hand side of the park, and he cut inside before coolly placing the ball past Robertson to reduce the deficit.

Bell then saved well from a Heaton header, while at the other end an excellent pass from Deas released Richie Chang, who saw his curling effort pushed round the post by Robertson. A mix-up at the back almost gave the visitors a second goal when Joe Carruth headed the ball just wide of his own goal after confusion between himself and Robertson as to who was dealing with what seemed a harmless ball.

Kirkintilloch did grab a second moments later when, fired-up by Stevie Miller's refusal to give the ball back after the referee had stopped play, they stormed towards the Pollok goal in a move that culminated with PAUL GALLACHER crashing the ball home from the corner of the penalty box. Home jitters weren't helped as the game moved into injury time when Stuart Morrison directed the ball goalwards after a flick-on from a free-kick, but Robertson dealt with the danger. The last chance of the game fell to Pollok when Dingwall forced an excellent save from Bell, and when the rebound fell to McClay his chip towards goal was turned away by the visiting 'keeper.

Pollok's performance in the first hour was therefore enough to secure a place in the final of the competition, where they will face Clydebank to decide who picks up the first silverware available to former Central Region clubs this season.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller, G Wilson (Gardiner 89), Carruth, Heaton, Aitchison, O'Donoghue (Franchetti 74), McClay, Dingwall, Waddell (Kinney 76), Essler. Not used: Cruickshank, Turnbull.
Booked: Miller (78)
Kirkintilloch RR: Bell, Carter, Morrison, Prunty, Carberry (Gallacher 27), P Campbell, Chang, Deas, Brown (McAndie 72), Vaugh, McPeake (Bonar 49). Not used: Dearie, McCafferty.
Booked: McPeake (46), Carter (49), Morrison (65)
Ref: Derek Nicholls

Shotts and Pollok shared the points at Hannah Park in a game that saw both sides finish with ten men. Pollok boss Rab Sneddon largely stuck with the side that had secured a passage into the last four of the Sectional League Cup, with the only change being the return of Joe Carruth to the side to replace the injured Derek Paterson. Former Pollok players Ross Jamieson and Mark McKeever were among the starters for a Bon Accord side that was struggling for numbers, with two of their named substitutes unavailable to take any part in proceedings.

It was to be the hosts who created the first opportunity of the game, however, when a John Boyack corner was headed low by Iain Wallace, but Kris Robertson got down well to make a superb save. Pollok responded with a Ross O'Donoghue free-kick that was headed over the bar by Bryan Dingwall. Shotts nearly took the lead after 15 minutes when a Stevie Miller clearance hit Wallace, but the ball rebounded just wide of the post. Davie Turnbull then showed good control in the middle of the park, but his dipping effort from 30 yards was easily dealt with by Andy McCondichie. Shortly afterwards Turnbull collected from a Gary Wilson throw-in, but this time his curling effort was off target. Stephen Donnachie threatened for the home side with a near-post header from a McKeever cross, but he couldn't keep the ball under the crossbar. McLintock became the first booking of the game when he was shown the yellow card for a foul on Stevie Aitchison.

Robertson mishandled a Boyack corner early in the second half, and was thankful to have Carruth behind him to clear his lines. Simon Black replaced Turnbull for the visitors after 57 minutes, who had a strong penalty claim moments later. Dingwall played in Andy Essler, who saw his shot blocked by a Bon Accord arm, but referee Neil declined to award a spot-kick. 'Lok should have taken the lead after 59 minutes when Dingwall connected with a powerful header from an Essler cross. McCondichie made a fabulous save, and when the rebound fell to Robert Downs the 'keeper again managed to prevent the ball from hitting the net.

At the other end Shotts squandered a golden opportunity after 68 minutes when breaking from a Pollok corner. Boyack led a three-against-two charge towards the 'Lok goal, only for his pass to Brian Crawford to run wide and the chance was gone. Crawford played no further part in the game as he was replaced immediately by Chris Mackie, and Downs made way for Alan Waddell for the visitors. Mackie was to make an impact after 77 minutes when his shot across the body of Robertson was pushed into the path of substitute JOHN CURRIE, who made use of the space afforded to him by the 'Lok defence as he picked his spot to give Bon Accord the lead, a lead that they attempted to protect with the introduction of Kevin Brown for McLintock. He found his way into the book with a challenge on Aitchison that led to the Pollok skipper needing four minutes of treatment, although thankfully not the stretcher that had been called for.

With all three substitutes used by this point 'Lok were forced to continue with 10 men, but forced an equaliser with just two minutes to go. Dingwall released Black down the right wing, and his cross was volleyed home acrobatically by ALAN WADDELL. Aitchison returned to the field, only to foul Mackie. As he was being booked Robertson questioned the assistant, who had given the foul the other way, and he was promptly red carded by Neil. Dingwall took the gloves, and spilled the resultant free-kick. At this point Brown lashed out at Black, and he too took the walk to the pavilion as a result of a second yellow card. Three minutes into injury time 'Lok were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the Shotts box, but were denied the chance to take it as despite the numerous second half stoppages the referee saw fit to call time on proceedings.

Pollok know they will have to up their game over the remainder of the season after a start to the league campaign that has yielded only one point from a possible six.

Shotts BA: McCondichie, Herriot, Murray, Jamieson, Gaffney, McLintock (Brown 78), McKeever, Crawford (Mackie 69), Donnachie, Boyack, Wallace (Currie 46). Not used: White, McSeveney.
Booked: McLintock (43), Brown (84, 90+3)
Sent Off: Brown (90+3)
Pollok: Robertson, Miller, G Wilson (Kinney 82), Aitchison, Carruth, McClay, O'Donoghue, Turnbull (Black 57), Dingwall, Downs (Waddell 69), Essler. Not used: Cruickshank, Gardiner.
Booked: Wilson (55), Aitchison (90+1)
Sent off: Robertson (90+1)
Ref: J. Neil/McNeil

Pollok bounced back from the disappointment of their opening league defeat by beating Bellshill Athletic at New Brandon Park to claim a place in the semi-finals of the Sectional League Cup. Eight of the eleven who started against Arthurlie retained their places, with Joe Carruth, Alan Waddell and Chris Cruickshank making way for Stevie Miller, Ross O'Donoghue and Robert Downs.

Stevie Aitchison resorted back to a central defensive role, but soon fell foul of referee Steven MacLean when he was booked after only five minutes after a tussle with Bellshill player-manager Paul McGrillen. Downs headed over from a Gary Wilson free-kick shortly afterwards, while for the home side Martin Lauchlan hit the bye-line and flashed a dangerous ball across goal, only for the 'Lok defence to scramble the ball clear. Kris Robertson then saved easily from a weak Brian Watret header after a Jamie McKenzie cross before Stuart McDonald shot over from distance. Downs went close for Pollok after 19 minutes when he got in behind the home defence, only to narrowly miss the target with his shot.

Pollok were to take the lead after 22 minutes when Andy Essler swung over a cross that was cleared only as far as BRYAN DINGWALL, who picked his spot in the corner of the net with a header from just inside the penalty box. McGrillen picked up an uncharacteristic booking for simulation before getting on the end of a deep cross from Lauchlan, but his shot could only find the side netting.

'Lok extended their lead after 34 minutes when firstly Rab Coulter and then Lauchlan attempted to stop Dingwall as he bore down on goal, with referee MacLean pointing to the spot after the second challenge. DAVIE TURNBULL stepped up to end a string of penalty misses for Pollok as he despatched the ball past Neil Inglis, despite the 'keeper guessing the right way. An injury for Derek Paterson allowed Carruth to come on for 'Lok, but he was helpless as McGrillen nearly reduced the deficit. Thankfully for the visitors his well struck effort passed narrowly wide of the post.

Pollok were nearly three ahead just moments into the second half when a cross-cum-shot from Wilson struck the top of the crossbar, while at the other end a fierce shot from McKenzie forced a good save from Robertson. Bellshill's chances of getting back into the match took a severe dent, however, in the 54th minute when Coulter was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Downs. Wilson tried his luck with his right foot after 57 minutes, but Inglis gathered the ball easily. Dingwall then headed over from a Downs cross, before Downs himself was denied by the legs of Inglis after connecting well with a close range volley.

Pollok then lost Essler to injury, to be replaced by Cruickshank. Bellshill substitute Paddy Flannery missed the target after a good ball from Stuart McDonald after 73 minutes, and the same player also shot over after being set-up by a Lauchlan back-heel. 'Lok were happy to keep possession and close the game down, although O'Donoghue could have put the game beyond doubt when he found space in the box and advanced on Inglis, but his shot was too close to the 'keeper, who made the save. A late Dingwall cross in injury time just eluded substitutes Cruickshank and Alain Kinney, but the visitors had already done enough to secure their passage into the semi-finals.

The last four line-up sees Pollok host Kirkintilloch Rob Roy, while Clydebank will take on Rutherglen Glencairn in the other game.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller, G Wilson, Aitchison, Paterson (Carruth 39), McClay, O'Donoghue, Turnbull, Dingwall, Downs (Kinney 77), Essler (Cruickshank 73). Not used: Gardiner, Black.
Booked: Aitchison (5), McClay (41), Downs (56)
Bellshill: Inglis, Lauchlan, Paterson, McGeoghegan, Coulter, S. MacDonald, McKenzie, K. MacDonald, Watret (Flannery 63), Callaghan, McGrillen. Not used: G. McDonald, Mullen, Wilson, Mitchell.
Booked: McGrillen (23), Lauchlan (33), McKenzie (67)
Sent Off: Coulter (54)

Pollok opened their Stagecoach Super Premier League campaign in disappointing style as they crashed by two goals to one at home to local rivals Arthurlie at Newlandsfield Park. Manager Rab Sneddon was forced to shuffle his pack from the team that defeated Neilston in midweek, with Zander Ryan on holiday and Derek Heaton and Stevie Miller both picking up injuries during that match. Andy Essler and Derek Paterson were brought in, while Stevie Aitchison moved to an unaccustomed right-back role to accommodate Joe Carruth in the centre of defence.

Arthurlie showed two alterations to the side that had lost to 'Lok in the Sectional League Cup, with Ricky Orr replacing Ross Ballantyne and James Evans lining up between the sticks in place of Craig Marshall. Allan Shields found his way into referee Hugh McIntyre's notebook after only five minutes after a late challenge on Davie Turnbull before 'Lok had a great chance to open the scoring. Essler played a long ball to Alan Waddell, who beat the offside trap before firing a fierce half-volley towards goal, only to be denied by a fabulous save from Evans. Joe Andrew then showed good skill while cutting in from the right-hand side, but his shot was wild and missed the target by some distance. Pollok were awarded a penalty after 23 minutes when Chris Cruickshank played in a near post cross to Waddell, who was taken down from behind by Roland Fabiani. Essler stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Evans made a fine save, then watched as Essler headed the rebound wide of the post.

Barry Nicholls had to leave the action after 24 minutes to be substituted by Ballantyne before Alan McFadden curled a free-kick past the post of Kris Robertson. Ballantyne then forced a good save from the 'Lok 'keeper after a dipping strike from the edge of the box. 'Lie were to take the lead after 44 minutes when Aitchison lost possession in the middle of the park. Ricky Orr played the ball quickly to Andrew on the left, and his cross was met by the outstretched leg of ROSS BALLANTYNE to give the visitors a half-time lead.

Paul Hilland was booked early in the second half before 'Lok restored parity to proceedings. Waddell set up BRYAN DINGWALL on the edge of the penalty box, and his sweetly struck shot curled away from Evans and into the corner of the net. Ballantyne tried his luck again after 63 minutes when he played a quick free-kick to Alan McFarlane, who gave the ball back, allowing him to fire a strike at goal from 30 yards that Robertson just managed to touch around the post. Pollok decided to put on another striker after 64 minutes when Robert Downs took the place of Cruickshank, and he won his side a penalty eight minutes later. He latched onto a Gary Wilson throw in, and as he prepared to strike at goal he was hauled down by Fabiani. It was Dingwall who stepped up this time but he, just like the last six Pollok penalty takers before him, failed to convert as Evans fell on his weak effort.

Arthurlie were then reduced to ten men when Allan Shields received his second booking of the game. At this point Rab Sneddon took off Paterson and put on a fifth striker in the shape of Alain Kinney as Pollok attempted to press home their numerical advantage. This created space for 'Lie on the counter-attack, however, and Ballantyne could have grabbed his second after 83 minutes when released by Andrew after the Pollok offside trap broke down, but he fired over the bar. This was only a temporary reprieve for the home side as four minutes later Arthurlie snatched a winner. Ballantyne and JOE ANDREW were left two-on-two with the home rearguard, and the former Maryhill man made no mistake when the chance arose to roll the ball past Robertson. Kinney and Turnbull both had late headers saved as 'Lok searched in vain for an equaliser, even sending Robertson up for a corner deep into injury time, but 'Lie held on to take all three points.

Pollok will need to lift their heads quickly as they now face a tricky trip to New Brandon Park as they face Bellshill in the quarter-finals of the Sectional League Cup.

Pollok: Robertson, Aitchison, G Wilson, Carruth, Paterson (Kinney 76), McClay, Essler, Turnbull, Dingwall, Waddell, Cruickshank (Downs 64). Not used: Gardiner, Franchetti, Rowan.
Booked: Dingwall (70), McClay (89)
Arthurlie: Marshall, McCulloch, Williams, Fabiani, Wardle, Shields, Orr (McFarlane 63), Nicholls (Ballantyne 24), Andrew, Hughes (Hilland 41), McFadden. Not used: McLaughlin, Bradford.
Booked: Shields (5), Wardle (40), Hilland (46), McCulloch (58)
Sent Off: Shields (75, 2nd yellow)
Ref: Hugh McIntyre

Pollok delivered a clinical performance in front of goal as they crushed Neilston by eight goals to nil to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the Sectional League Cup. Rab Sneddon was afforded the rare luxury of being able to name the same starting eleven for the second match running, and the side that had delivered a two-goal lead within the first ten minutes against St. Anthony’s repeated the feat against Neilston.

After seven minutes Zander Ryan crossed to Bryan Dingwall, who headed the ball back to DAVIE TURNBULL. He killed the ball with his first touch, pushed it beyond his marker and fired it low into the bottom corner of the net with tremendous composure to claim his fifth strike of the season. Turnbull was to be provider just three minutes later when his perfectly weighted pass was prodded beyond Brian Hewitt by BRYAN DINGWALL. Stevie Miller had to leave the field moments later, and he was replaced by Ross O’Donoghue.

At this stage Neilston were still offering a threat at the other end, and Kris Robertson had to get down well to make a good save from a spin and shot from Derek Kennedy. Craig Malcolm also went close for the visitors moments later when his snapshot hit the top of the crossbar. Former ‘Lok player Paul McMenamin came off the bench for Neilston to replace Thomas Murdoch before Mark Travers tried his luck from a free-kick, only to see Robertson make a comfortable save. ‘Lok made it three after 26 minutes when Turnbull lifted the ball over the top of the defence and BRYAN DINGWALL struck a wonderful acrobatic volley off the inside of the post as Hewitt was left helpless. He nearly grabbed a hat-trick three minutes later when his deflected shot struck the legs of the Neilston ‘keeper.

A fourth goal was not long in coming, however, and it arrived when a low Ryan corner wasn’t defended properly, allowing Chris Cruickshank to knock the ball back across goal to the waiting ALAN WADDELL, who swivelled and volleyed home from close range. Neilston could have closed the gap on the stroke of half-time when a defensive lapse presented Travers with the opportunity to lob the advancing Robertson, but his attempt landed wide of the post.

Derek Heaton had been the victim of a head knock in the first half, and he did not reappear after the interval, with Derek Paterson taking his place at centre-back. ‘Lok nearly moved further ahead early in the second half when a long ball found Waddell, who in turn found Dingwall, and he lifted his shot over Hewitt but also over the crossbar. After 56 minutes the lead became five when a long range effort from O’Donoghue was spilled by Hewitt, and ALAN WADDELL was sharp enough to show his predatory instincts as he tucked the ball away for his second of the game. Kennedy was then released behind the home defence by a long pass, but Andy McClay made a superb saving tackle.

Andy Whiteford threatened with a header from a corner, only to see the ball bounce off one of his team-mates and pass wide for a goal-kick. Downs was twice denied by Hewitt before goal number six arrived. A Cruickshank cross from the left was met by an ALAN WADDELL header that was helped over the line by by Paul McMenamin for the ex-Farmer's Boys star's treble. Two minutes later Waddell teed up ROSS O’DONOGHUE for a strike from distance, and his perfectly struck shot curled into the top left-hand corner of the net for Pollok’s seventh. The final goal of the game was a personal nightmare for Hewitt, who tried to find a team-mate with a pass when dealing with a back-pass, only to see ALAN WADDELL intercept the ball and dribble around the ‘keeper before despatching it into the net to bag a fourth. Whiteford had one final chance to register a consolation goal for the visitors, but Robertson plucked his shot out of the air one-handedly to preserve a second consecutive shut-out.

‘Lok now face a tricky trip to face Bellshill at New Brandon Park in a quarter-final tie, but not before they open their league campaign against local rivals Arthurlie at Newlandsfield Park.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller (O’Donoghue 11), G Wilson, Aitchison, Heaton (Paterson 46), McClay, Ryan, Turnbull (Downs 60), Dingwall, Waddell, Cruickshank. Not used: Essler, Gardiner.
Booked: McClay 68
Neilston: Hewitt, Whiteford, Travers, Duncan, Sheridan, Cameron (Cassidy 83), Cannings, Murdoch (McMenamin 22), Kennedy, Malcolm (Scobie 60), Bryers. Not used: Flanagan, Stark.
Booked: Whiteford (68)
Ref: Frank McDermott

Pollok made it three wins out of three as they continued their successful start to the season with a comfortable victory over St. Anthony's at Newlandfield Park. Derek Gardiner became the latest addition to Rab Sneddon's squad when his signing was confirmed before the match, although he only found a place on the bench. Derek Heaton and Andy McClay joined Bryan Dingwall on his competitive debut as the three changes from the side that defeated Arthurlie, with Derek Paterson, Anton Franchetti and Robert Downs being the men who missed out.

'Lok were presented with a golden opportunity to take the lead after only 35 seconds when an Ants defender handled inside the box and referee Derek Nicholls pointed to the spot. Gary Wilson stepped up to take the strike, but Davie Turner made a fine save. The ball broke to ZANDER RYAN, who found the net with a deflected shot to give the home side the lead. Dingwall then had a curling shot palmed away by Turner, and Chris Cruickshank had a tame effort saved by the 'keeper after some excellent running by Alan Waddell as Pollok dominated the opening exchanges. Their pressure was soon rewarded with a second goal when Ryan's deep cross to the back post was bulleted home by the head of DAVIE TURNBULL.

Ants made an early change with Robert Rachwal giving way to Stevie Mulligan as they tried to gain a foothold in the match. Cruickshank was next to try his luck, missing the target with a header from a Turnbull cross, and Waddell was also off-target when trying to beat Turner from distance after a poor clearance. David Feeney then cleared off the line after Turnbull connected with a Ryan corner as 'Lok continued to swamp their visitors. Waddell curled another shot just wide of the right-hand post before St. Anthony's best chance of the game. Ronald McDonald set up Darryl Boyd with a clear sight of goal, and he powered a strike on target that Kris Robertson just got his fingertips to as he diverted the ball onto the crossbar to preserve a two-goal half-time lead.

Boyd nearly breathed life into the tie just after half-time with a free-kick that passed just by the post before Stevie Miller became the first booking of the game after a foul on Thomas Miller. 'Lok almost caught their visitors out in the 58th minute when a quick free-kick from Ryan released Wilson, and his low cross to the front post was touched goalwards by Dingwall, but Turner was alert to the danger and made the save. The hitman was not to be denied a debut goal however, as it duly arrived in the 67th minute. Ryan played a free-kick into a dangerous area, and BRYAN DINGWALL threw himself at the ball to power a low header beyond Turner.

Waddell then showed superb skill at the edge of the penalty area before firing the ball off the outside of the post, and Turner made a terrific reaction save to stop a fierce Dingwall shot before 'Lok extended their lead further. Ryan was again the provider with a corner kick that was met by DAVIE TURNBULL who bagged his fourth goal in three games to make the score 4-0. Ryan could have added a fifth after a pass from Andy McClay, but Turner again denied the home side. Robertson then held a Mark McCuish free-kick at the other end, before the Ants finally got the ball in the net only to see the assistant referee raise his flag and disallow the goal. Pollok should have rounded off the scoring with two minutes left to play when Waddell released Simon Black, who took the ball around Turner in a one-on-one situation, only to carry it too far and the chance was gone.

The result leaves Pollok needing only a draw against Neilston in their final group match to progress into the quarter-finals of the competition.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller, G Wilson (Franchetti 74), Aitchison (Gardiner 74), Heaton, McClay, Ryan, Turnbull, Dingwall (Black 71), Waddell, Cruickshank. Not used: O'Donoghue, Rowan.
Booked: Miller (52), Gardiner (85)
St. Anthony's: Turner, Feeney, Miller, Jaap, Maguire (Smith 89), McDivitt, McCuish, Rachwal (Mulligan 9), Docherty, McDonald, Boyd (Barry 74). Not used: Fyfe, Gallagher.
Booked: McDivitt (65)
ref: Derek Nicholls

Pollok came from behind to defeat Arthurlie in their Sectional League Cup clash at a damp Dunterlie Park. There were faces familiar to both sets of fans on show, with Rab Sneddon fielding all five of his summer captures from the home side, while Brian Wardle and Roland Fabiani, both formerly of ‘Lok, took to the field under the stewardship of another former Newlandsfield player, Gary Faulds.

With Joe Carruth unavailable the visitors showed one change from the side that defeated Benburb, with Stevie Miller slotting into the vacant centre-back role. The first chance for ‘Lok arrived in the fifth minute when a Zander Ryan cross from the right was met by the head of Chris Cruickshank, but Craig Marshall saved easily. Ross Ballantyne then tried his luck from distance, but was narrowly over the target with his effort. Arthurlie were to take the lead, however, after 11 minutes. Slack play from Miller presented ALAN McFADDEN with the ball inside the Pollok box, and he made no mistake in slotting the ball past Kris Robertson for the opening goal.

‘Lok were within a whisker of levelling after 20 minutes when Ryan floated a free-kick into the box onto the head of Alan Waddell, but the ball cracked off the crossbar and away to safety. Robert Downs then ran at the heart of the ‘Lie defence, but he pulled a tame shot wide of the target. At the other end a Martin Hughes shot took a wicked deflection and looped towards goal, but Robertson got to the ball to push it over the bar. After 39 minutes Derek Paterson passed the ball to Downs, who held off his marker and set-up Davie Turnbull. He curled his shot around Marshall in the home goal, only to see the ball bounce agonisingly off the base of the post.

Simon Black was introduced to the action early in the second half in place of Anton Franchetti, but as ‘Lok chased the game Arthurlie should have doubled their advantage. Dave Williams led the charge forward as the home side found themselves with a three against one situation, but his ball across the box was poor and was cut out by Waddell, who had shown great determination to track back and snuff out the danger. A mix-up between Miller and Paterson allowed substitute John Bradford a clear run at goal after 75 minutes, but as Miller closed in behind him he went to ground too easily for the liking of referee Gary Hilland, who waved play on.

Within four minutes Pollok had equalised. Downs fashioned space for himself on the left, and his cross to the back post was headed home by DAVIE TURNBULL to bring the scores level. He then made an important intervention at the other end when Craig Ferguson found space in the box, only for his shot to deflect off Stevie Aitchison and then be cleared by Turnbull. With just two minutes to go ‘Lok grabbed the winner. Waddell pounced on some poor play in the home defence and threaded the ball through a packed penalty area into the path of SIMON BLACK, who took the pass in his stride before lashing the ball confidently beyond Marshall to give the visitors a lead which they were to hold until the full time whistle.

Victory for Pollok leaves them at the top of Section Five with two home games remaining in the group, while Arthurlie can no longer progress to the quarter-final stages of the competition.

Arthurlie: Marshall, McCulloch, Williams, Fabiani, Wardle, Shields (Ferguson 26), Ballantyne (McFarlane 85), Nicholls, Andrew (Bradford 67), Hughes, McFadden. Not used: Orr, McCann.
Booked: Fabiani (80), Nicholls (83)
Pollok: Robertson, Ryan, G Wilson, Miller, Paterson (O’Donoghue 76), Aitchison, Franchetti(Black53),Turnbull, Downs, Waddell, Cruickshank (Essler 64). Not used: Heaton, Rowan.
Booked: Miller (66), Downs (70), Black (88)
Ref: G. Hilland

Pollok opened their Sectional League Cup campaign with a comfortable victory over Benburb at Tinto Park by four goals to one. With a number of comings and goings over the close season it was no surprise that Rab Sneddon’s starting line-up contained just four players who had begun the last competitive match of last season, a defeat at Johnstone Burgh.

New-look ‘Lok didn’t take long to open their account for the season with a goal after just two minutes. Anton Franchetti kept the ball in play on the right-hand side of the park and surged upfield before passing to Davie Turnbull. He switched play to Chris Cruickshank on the left, who crossed towards Franchetti, who had continued his run. While the trialist midfielder claimed the credit, it seemed that the defending number 5 had just applied the final touch for an OWN GOAL that gave the visitors the lead. Gary Wilson then fired wide after being set-up by Alan Waddell. The advantage was to be doubled after 12 minutes, and again it was a Cruickshank cross that caused problems for the Benburb rearguard. The ball found DAVIE TURNBULL in yards of space, and he took a touch to control the ball before passing it beyond the ‘keeper and into the net.

Shortly afterwards Turnbull flicked the ball on for Robert Downs who missed narrowly with a well struck half-volley. The third goal arrived after 22 minutes when Turnbull sold his covering marker a dummy on the right-hand side of the penalty box, and he took his time to pick out ANTON FRANCHETTI with a chipped cross that was nodded into the net by the midfielder. A Waddell run down the left two minutes later resulted in a through ball to Downs, but the ‘keeper denied him, and again from the resultant corner. Turnbull had to limp out of the action in the 33rd minute to be replaced by Ross Currie. Bens didn’t really threaten the Pollok goal until the 37th minute when a free-kick travelled 60 yards and was met by the head of Billy Ferguson, but his effort was wide of the target. As the game approached half-time ‘Lok attacked again, with Cruickshank and Waddell working a one-two on the left of the park. When Cruickshank saw his shot blocked it fell into the path of ALAN WADDELL, who lashed the ball home for his first competitive goal for Pollok.

Despite the four-goal deficit they faced Benburb started brightly in the second half, and found a glimmer of hope after just 75 seconds. A throw-in was poorly defended by the visiting defence, and TONY O'NEILL took the opportunity to rifle the ball past Kris Robertson. Bens could have reduced the deficit further after 56 minutes when number 3 had a free-kick well within shooting range, but although he hit the target Robertson was able to hold the ball comfortably. While a home goal at this point would have caused some frayed nerves amongst the visiting support the Benburb revival fizzled out, as did much of the creative play that had been shown by Pollok in the first half.

Downs made way for Andy Essler, who found himself in an unfamiliar advanced role, while Derek Paterson also made way at the back for Derek Heaton. Cruickshank did manage to hit the target again for ‘Lok when he headed a Gary Wilson throw-in towards goal, but the ‘keeper pushed his effort wide of the post. He was off target after 81 minutes when connecting with a pass from Essler, who had shown good control to bring down a long crossfield ball from Zander Ryan. Essler himself had the final shot on target when he tried to chip the goalkeeper from 25 yards, but he was able to retreat and make the catch. Bens had one last effort when number 11 shot well over from long distance.

‘Lok can take positives from an impressive first half performance, but will need to maintain a high standard over the full ninety minutes when they face local rivals Arthurlie in their next Sectional League Cup match at Dunterlie Park.

Pollok: Robertson, Ryan, G Wilson, Carruth, Paterson (Heaton 79), Aitchison, Franchetti, Turnbull (Currie 33), Downs (Essler 63), Waddell, Cruickshank. Not used: Gardiner, Rowan.

Pollok completed their pre-season build-up with a come-from-behind victory against Whitburn at Central Park. Rab Sneddon was back in the dugout for the game, but his selection process was somewhat limited by only having fourteen players fit and available for selection. Of these, goalkeeper Craig Rowan and trialist Anton Franchetti made their first starts for ‘Lok.

Rowan had to pick the ball out of the net early on as Whitburn took the lead after just 73 seconds. A cross from the left was met by the Whitburn number 9 who headed home giving the ‘keeper no chance. He then turned provider as he crossed for Colin Strickland from the right, but the manager’s son tried to get a foot to the ball rather than his head and ended up failing to connect. The visitors took some time to find their stride, and it was 21 minutes before they troubled the home goal. Franchetti and Davie Turnbull worked the ball into space in the middle of the park, but Franchetti’s chipped effort ended up over the bar. At the other end ‘Lok were alarmingly easily caught out by a long ball to Strickland, but after advancing on goal he could only hit the side netting.

Some good play for ‘Lok after 24 minutes created a chance for Turnbull, but he couldn’t quite get the ball under control and he prodded his attempt against the home ‘keeper. Number 4 then dragged a shot just wide after a long free-kick that Pollok failed to clear their lines from. Gary Wilson threatened for the visitors after 33 minutes with a long range shot that was easily saved by the ‘keeper, and two minutes later he fired narrowly over from a poorly defended corner. Robert Downs then missed the target with a curling effort before ‘Lok grabbed an equaliser. An Andy McClay cross from the left was flicked on by Downs, and CHRIS CRUICKSHANK arrived at the back post to slide home on the volley to bring the scores level at half-time.

Pollok used all three of their substitutes at the interval with Rowan, Cruickshank and Derek Paterson being replaced by Kris Robertson, Andy Essler and Derek Heaton. Whitburn nearly regained their lead within two minutes of the restart, but a shot from Strickland was deflected off target by a ‘Lok defender. After 49 minutes Franchetti made a good run down the middle of the park and played the ball through to Downs in space, but he missed the target to the left of goal. A searching ball from number 3 then found Strickland, who cut the ball back to number 6, but he fired over the crossbar. Stevie Miller was released down the right-hand side of the park in the 56th minute after a pass from Franchetti, but his cross was too close the goalkeeper as Downs waited to pounce.

Shortly afterwards number 7 found Strickland after the ‘Lok offside line broke down, but again he could only find the side netting. Franchetti then had a shot blocked by the ‘keeper, and number 2 just managed to clear for a corner before Downs could reach the rebound. The goal that was ultimately to prove the winner arrived after 67 minutes for the visitors. Wilson played the ball to Downs, whose deep cross from the left was touched home at close range by the foot of ANTON FRANCHETTI. Cruickshank and Paterson returned to the action in place of Wilson and Alan Waddell as Pollok started to take a grip of the game. Turnbull headed wide from a Cruickshank cross, then shot wide after the ball broke to him off a Whitburn arm. Downs then latched on to a short pass-back by Joe Mbu, but failed to beat the ‘keeper from a one-on-one situation. Robertson had to get down well to save from number 7 after Miller partially blocked his shot, before the last chance of the match fell to Pollok. A steepling cross from Cruickshank was headed on by Turnbull to Downs, but the striker could only pick out the Whitburn number one again.

‘Lok will be pleased to have taken one final morale boost from a mixed bag of pre-season fixtures, and will be hoping that they can continue with winning ways when they travel to Benburb in the first match of their Sectional League Cup campaign.

Pollok: Rowan (Robertson 46), Miller, G Wilson (Cruickshank back on 77), Aitchison, Paterson (Heaton 46), McClay, Franchetti, Turnbull, Downs, Waddell (Paterson back on 77), Cruickshank (Essler 46).

Pollok suffered their second defeat in three days to Scottish Football League opposition as Alloa Athletic triumphed by the odd goal in three at Newlandsfield Park. With Rab Sneddon still away, Harry Erwin took the managerial reins once again, and he took the opportunity to shuffle his pack, keeping only four of the starters from the Stranraer game. Kris Robertson, Stevie Miller, Zander Ryan and Robert Downs were the men who retained their places, and they were joined by Gary Wilson for his first game in Pollok colours after joining from Arthurlie during the summer. Among those on the bench was trialist Anton Franchetti, formerly of Bellshill.

'Lok could hardly have made a worse start, falling behind in the third minute. Kieran McAnespie hit the target with a free-kick, and although Robertson was well positioned to make the catch he mishandled the ball and could only watch as JOHN JOHNSTON scored the simplest of goals when faced with an empty net. Johnston could have extended the lead after five minutes when through on goal again, but he pulled his shot wide of the target. Pollok's first chance arrived in the eighth minute from a John Tinney corner, but Downs could only head wide from close range. Similarly, Michael Bould headed wide at the other end after connecting with a Robert Sloan free-kick. It took 'Lok 21 minutes to force a save from Allan Creer when Downs found Ryan with a terrific pass, but a poor first touch narrowed the available angle and the midfielder could only hit the visiting 'keeper. A minute later the same player caught the ball with a much sweeter strike, but Creer was able to hold the shot. In the 28th minute a driving run from Miller gave Downs the opportunity to set up Ross Currie for a strike at goal, and he wasn't far over the bar with his attempt from just outside the box. He then crossed a free-kick into the box that was met by the head of Derek Paterson, but the 'keeper managed to get in the way of the ball. Alloa immediately broke down the other end, but Paul Thomson's long-range effort was easily gathered by Robertson.

McAnespie had an early chance to double the advantage for The Wasps after the resumption but his free-kick was narrowly wide before a flurry of substitutions. It was to be one of those who entered the action that claimed the second goal of the game. As Pollok tried to clear their lines the ball ricocheted into the path of ROSS MUIR, who showed great composure to round Robertson and roll the ball into the net with a cool finish. Play was punctuated by further substitutions, including a first Pollok appearance for Franchetti, before 'Lok found a lifeline back into the game after 75 minutes. Ryan played in a dangerous cross from the right-hand side of the park and DAVIE TURNBULL timed his effort perfectly to head the ball beyond Creer and reduce the arrears to one goal. The same player could have grabbed an equaliser late on, but his shot was just wide of the post. Alloa could also have scored again, firstly when tenacious play from Graeme Brown ended with him hitting the side netting, then again in injury-time as a header from John Grant passed narrowly over the crossbar.

While there were many aspects of the play that Pollok can be happy with, they will hope that they can stop conceding soft goals when the action starts for real against Benburb in the Sectional League Cup after one final preparatory match versus Whitburn.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller (Essler 65), G Wilson (Cruickshank 56), Aitchison (Heaton 65), Paterson, O'Donoghue (Gardiner 44), Ryan, Currie (Franchetti 68), Waddell, Downs (Turnbull 56), Tinney. Not used: Carruth, Rowan.
Alloa: Creer, Hall, Clark, Townsley, Malcolm (Hoey 68), Thomson (Brown 57), Hazeldine (Muir 57), McAnespie (Comrie 64), Dunn (Hamilton 36), Johnston (Grant 57), Sloan (Swaney 68).

Pollok found themselves on the wrong end of a two-goal deficit as they were defeated by SFL 2nd division outfit Stranraer at Newlandsfield Park. Stand-in boss Harry Erwin made four changes to the side that had played at Largs earlier in the week, with Stevie Aitchison, Ross O'Donoghue, Simon Black and Alan Waddell sitting out to make way for Andy McClay, Davie Turnbull, and debutants Zander Ryan and Bryan Dingwall. Included on the bench was latest signing Craig Rowan, previously goalkeeper for Bellshill Athletic. Gerry Britton fielded a strong Stranraer side that included former 'Lok player Davie Hamilton in their ranks, as well as almost 10 new signings and one trialist.

Both sides started brightly, and 'Lok nearly fashioned an opening in the seventh minute after intricate play involving Ryan, Dingwall, Turnbull and Robert Downs, but were unable to get a shot on target. They were made to pay as the ball was quickly played down the other end of the field. While the home defence felt they had caught the visiting team offside the assistant referee disagreed, leaving KENNY WRIGHT yards of space to run into, and he made no mistake firing the ball past Kris Robertson to give The Blues the lead. Turnbull was then well off target with a shot on the turn after controlling an Andy Essler cross. Stranraer nearly extended their lead with two set-pieces within a minute of each other, both for fouls on Michael Moore. Mark Crilly put one just wide of the post, while Hamilton lifted his effort over the bar. Dingwall was also over the target with an acrobatic volley at the other end before the visitors extended their lead. The 'Lok defence were caught out by a ball in behind to Stephen Nicholas, who was tripped by Robertson leaving the referee with an easy decision to award a penalty. DAVIE HAMILTON stepped up to find the bottom right-hand corner of the net and once more get his name on the scoresheet at Newlandsfield, leaving the half-time score at 0-2.

Stranraer made five substitutions during the interval to give more of their squad a run-out, but the pattern of the game continued as they extended their lead further after six second half minutes. A slip by Derek Heaton left space in the middle of the Pollok defence, and it was ruthlessly exploited. Wright had an initial shot well parried by Robertson, but MICHAEL MOORE followed up to tuck the ball into the net. The home side could have closed the gap after 54 minutes when McClay found Dingwall with an excellent ball. His cut-back was collected by substitute Simon Black, but he struck a poor shot despite the time he was given. 'Lok did pull a goal back after 59 minutes, and it was another substitute who scored it. Alain Kinney laid the ball off to Essler, who cross was nodded home at close range by ALAN WADDELL to record his first goal in Pollok colours. 'Lok were coming more into the game as the league side seemed to take their foot off the gas slightly, although Dougie Ramsay remained committed enough to find his way into the notebook after a hefty challenge on McClay. Chris Cruickshank headed over on 64 minutes after a Ryan cross, and the same player volleyed wide ten minutes later from an O'Donoghue cross. Cruickshank then crossed a free-kick into the box, which was cleared into the path of O'Donoghue, but he shot narrowly over the bar. The last attack for 'Lok came from Waddell, who cut inside after good work on the right, only to miss the target with his drive.

'Lok were far from disgraced against an outfit who were playing in the second highest tier of the Scottish game last season, although the first-half performance in particular from Stranraer showed the gulf in class that will have to be breached should Junior clubs ever be given the chance to progress into and through the qualifying rounds of the Scottish Cup.

Pollok: Robertson (Rowan 59), Miller, Cruickshank, Carruth (O'Donoghue 50), Heaton (Paterson 53), McClay, Ryan, Turnbull (Black 52), Dingwall (Waddell 55), Downs (Kinney 55), Essler (Gardiner 59).
Booked: none
Stranraer: Wight (Morrison 46), Lyle (Aitken 46), Gaughan, Walker (Lyle back on 74), Sharp, McPhee (Ramsay 46), Crilly (Snowdon 46), Hamilton (McMullan 46), Nicholas, Moore (Burns 53), Wright.
Booked: Ramsay (61)

Pollok opened their 2006/07 season by easing to a comfortable two-goal victory over Largs Thistle at Barrfields Stadium.

There may no longer be a transfer window, but the close-season revolving door saw numerous new faces arrive, while others bade Newlandsfield farewell as they continued their careers elsewhere. Of the latest arrivals Kris Robertson and Alan Waddell made their Pollok debuts, as did Ross O'Donoghue, injured during the warm-up at Maryhill shortly after he first signed for the club. Robert Downs also started for the first match of his third spell at the club. Zander Ryan and Bryan Dingwall were unavailable for selection, and although Gary Wilson was on the bench for 'Lok he wasn't fully fit and did not manage to take to the field at any point during the game. Ross Currie, Richie Buckley and John Tinney were also on the bench despite no longer being signed players, and they were joined by Derek Gardiner, a trialist centre-half whose previous appearance for Pollok was curtailed by an injury that saw him hobble off at half-time during a friendly with Dumbarton last season. 'Lok started brightly, with Downs firing over the bar in the sixth minute after a long ball from Stevie Miller that beat the offside trap. It was to be 22 minutes before Robertson had a shot on target to deal with, with the Largs number 8 shooting weakly down the middle straight at the 'keeper. 'Lok took the lead just over a minute later when a cross from the left was flicked on by the head of Downs and fell to ROSS O'DONOGHUE, who was given enough space in the box to shoot home from 16 yards out for his first goal in the black and white. The same player found space moments later after some good work at the edge of the box, but this time his shot was over the target.

Manager for the night Harry Erwin made three changes at half-time, with Downs, Derek Heaton and Chris Cruickshank making way for Gardiner, Derek Paterson and Alain Kinney. The young striker threatened within thirty seconds of the restart when he slid the ball just wide as he tried to maintain his balance. He did, however, find the target in the 50th minute. Andy Essler's corner caused confusion in the home defence, and ALAIN KINNEY was the most alert man on the park as he found the net to double the advantage for the visitors. Alan Waddell then went close with an effort that passed just wide of the post from the edge of the box, before he departed proceedings to be replaced by Davie Turnbull, who took little time to extend the lead further. A seemingly harmless ball over the top was met with some poor defending in the home ranks, and DAVIE TURNBULL stepped in to loft a composed lob over the stranded Thistle 'keeper and into the net. Frustration in the home ranks was now evident, and tempers threatened to boil over after a horror challenge from the Largs number 8 left Miller in agony on the touchline. The Largs bench were asked to replace him as the referee attempted to keep his cards in his pocket, given that this was a friendly. Stevie Aitchison then required treatment to a facial injury after being caught in the mouth by a wayward elbow from the Largs number 7.

Some intricate play from Tinney and Kinney set up Turnbull, who showed terrific skill to beat 3 men but could only shoot straight at the home custodian. Kinney then missed the target with a speculative effort that flew over the crossbar. As the game drew to a conclusion Largs managed their second shot on target, with Robertson getting down well low to his left to push the ball round the post for a corner. When the cross subsequently arrived in the box a Pollok defender miscued a clearance against his own arm and the referee pointed to the spot. Robertson did get his fingertips to the ball, but could not prevent the loss of his clean sheet. The identity of the man who beat him remains a mystery, however, as Largs chose not to invest any of the £5 admission fee in a pen and sheet of paper for team-lines.

'Lok will be happy to have started the season on a positive note, and will look to improve further as the squad gain fitness in readiness for the real action.

Pollok: Robertson, Miller, Cruickshank (Gardiner 46), Carruth, Heaton (Paterson 46), Aitchison, O'Donoghue
(Buckley 65), Black (Currie 61), Waddell (Turnbull 61), Downs (Kinney 46), Essler (Tinney 56). Not used: G Wilson.