Brown cup semi final
Whitburn 0 Bonnyrigg 2
Half time: Whitburn 0 Bonnyrigg 1
This defeat ended Whitburn's season, but there wasn't much between the teams.
Bonnyrigg should have opened the scoring when a misunderstanding in the Whitburn defence allowed them a sight of goal, but the shot failed to find the target.
Bonnyrigg opened the scoring after 15 minutes, through a free kick by Grady, after a foul by Macdonald. The free kick was well struck and gave Walker no chance as it cleared the defensive wall and found the top corner of the net.
After that, Whitburn matched their opponents, but lacked the punch up front to find an equaliser.
Into the second half and Whitburn pushed forward looking to square the tie.
Willie Kirk put across a dangerous ball that Strickland was inches away from turning into the net at the back post.
Eamon McNelis came close with a first time shot when the ball broke to him at the edge of the box, but it went just past the post.
Whitburn kept pushing forward, but were unable to find a way past the Bonnyrigg defence.
As the game drew to a close, Whitburn brought on Gary Cunningham and pushed Rixon forward. Unfortunately, Cunningham was injured shortly after taking the field, and was replaced by Valentine.
Despite their efforts, they couldn't find an equaliser, and were caught with a killer goal in the final minutes. Bonnyrigg broke, played the ball to Grady on the right of the box, and he wasted no time in firing the ball past Walker into the bottom corner.
This wasn't one of Whitburn's best displays of the season, but they were still unlucky to lose.
The best performances this week were mainly in defence, and the Man of the Match for the second game in a row, goes to Paul Taylor.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Taylor, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Kirk(Cunningham(Valentine)), McNelis, Lynch, Strickland, Gibson(Sinclair). Subs not used - Gilpin
Man of the Match - Paul Taylor
30-5-05
League
Whitburn 1 Sauchie 2, Scorer - McNelis
Half time: Whitburn 1 Sauchie 0
Whitburn finished their league campaign with a disappointing defeat against Sauchie in a game they should have won. With the league already win though, it was understandable that neither team showed the same passion you would normally expect from them.
Whitburn had several changes in the starting line up, with Gilpin in goal, Cunningham at centre back, Willie Kirk, back from injury, on the right of midfield and Rixon pushed up front along with Peter Lynch.
Whitburn put plenty of good balls into the box during the first half in particular, with Kirk and Carswell on the right and Taylor and Gibson on the left, linking to good effect.
Whitburn came close to opening the scoring when Rixon knocked a cross from the right back across goal for Lynch, but it was just too high and his header went over the bar.
The opening goal came just a couple of minutes from half time, and it was well deserved on the balance of play. Gibson crossed from the left and again it was Rixon who supplied the knockdown, this time for Eamon McNelis to fire home.
The second half went much as the first had, with Whitburn again having the best of the forward play. However they were unable to extend their lead and paid the penalty as the game neared the finish.
Ross Gilpin in goal had hardly been called into action during the match, but had to pick the ball out of the net twice in the closing minutes, as well as making a couple of good stops as Sauchie capitalised on defensive errors to snatch the points.
First they pounced on a loose ball inside the box that Whitburn failed to clear when they had the chance, and drove it into the net.
Two minutes later they got the winner gifted to them when a short pass back put Gilpin in trouble. In attempting to clear as a forward rushed in, he miskicked and the ball ran kindly for the Sauchie player to tap home.
Despite the defeat, Whitburn played well for most of the game, and
can count themselves unlucky to lose their unbeaten home league record in the last game.
Whitburn had a lot of young players on the park, and they performed well, but the Man of the Match goes to the oldest player, Paul Taylor. He worked tirelessly at full back, and played countless telling passes and crosses for the players in front of him, the sort of display Whitburn will be looking for in the Super League next season.
Whitburn team : Gilpin, Carswell, Taylor, Cunningham, Macdonald, McNelis(Hannah), Kirk, Valentine, Rixon, Lynch(Strickland), Gibson(Sinclair). Subs not used - Walker
Man of the Match - Paul Taylor
28-5-05
League
Whitburn 1 Musselburgh 1, Scorer - Rixon
Half time: Whitburn 1 Musselburgh 0
With the league already won by Whitburn, this game was always likely to be a bit of a non-event. However, credit to both teams for making it a reasonably entertaining game for the supporters.
Whitburn were defending a 100% home league record so they had something to play for, and Musselburgh also had something to prove as they tried to beat Sauchie to second place.
The first half was a scrappy affair as both teams looked determined to give nothing away.
Whitburn came close to opening the scoring when an Alan Flanagan header came off the junction of post and crossbar.
Stewart Walker prevented Musselburgh from taking the lead when he came out to close down a shot from an opposing forward who had been put through on goal.
Whitburn made the breakthrough 5 minutes from half time when Stevie Rixon pounced on a loose clearance to volley home following a Kenny Hannah free kick.
Stewart Walker was called into action again early in the second half when he dived to save an effort from the edge of the box.
Whitburn enjoyed most of the attacking play in the second half, but too often chose the wrong option or were denied by Musselburgh's defence.
Musselburgh equalised with 10 minutes remaining, from a free kick by Davie McGlynn that was driven past the defensive wall and eluded the diving Walker in goal.
Despite it being an end of season game with nothing at stake but pride, several Whitburn players turned in performances worthy of note. Hannah and McNelis did well in the middle of the park, and both full backs, Taylor and Carswell, also gave good displays. The Man of the Match this week goes to Scott Macdonald who was as solid as ever at the centre of defence.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell(Kirk), Taylor, Macdonald, Rixon, McNelis, Lynch, Hannah, Flanagan(Valentine), Strickland, Sinclair(Gibson). Subs not used - Gilpin, Ramage
Man of the Match - Scott Macdonald
14-5-05
League
Whitburn 6 Armadale 1, Scorers - Ramage(3), Flanagan, Lynch, Hannah
Half time: Whitburn 4 Armadale 0
Whitburn went into this game knowing that victory would all but ensure the league title due to their far superior goal difference over nearest challengers Musselburgh.
However, it was Armadale who almost took the lead in the first five minutes when they got through on Walker, but didn't take the chance.
Whitburn replied with a great cross from Taylor to McNelis running in at the far post. However, his well hit volley went just past the opposite post.
Whitburn settled into the game and were moving the ball about well as they tried to find a way through the Armadale defence, with the centre half in particular proving difficult to beat.
Perseverance paid off in the 25th minute when Alan Flanagan jumped at the back post to head home a corner kick from Strickland. This gave Whitburn a lift and the second goal followed just two minutes later. Iain Ramage finished off a good passing move with a drive into the corner of the net from a lay off by Strickland.
Goal number three arrived in the 35th minute, and again it was Iain Ramage who found the net with a powerful shot after being set up by Flanagan.
Mark Sinclair came close to scoring when he broke into the left of the box and forced a save out of the keeper at the near post.
Iain Ramage completed his hat-trick in the 45th minute when he flicked the ball over the head of a defender and placed the ball in the corner of the net with a well controlled right foot volley from 12 yards out. The hat-trick had taken just 18 minutes to complete, and takes him level with Colin Strickland on 22 goals for the season, an impressive tally for a midfielder.
Whitburn started the second half with Flanagan forcing the keeper to make another good save from his well hit shot.
The second half was played at a lower tempo, with Armadale seeing more of the ball, and they pulled a goal back after 60 minutes with a header from a corner kick.
Peter Lynch replaced McNelis, and he had a great chance to score when he received a pass on the right and ran in on goal. However, his shot was well saved by the Armadale keeper.
He did get on the scoresheet in the 80th minute when a shot by Flanagan came back off the bar, leaving Peter Lynch with the easy task of heading the ball into the empty net from 6 yards out.
Whitburn weren't finished, and Hannah forced two good saves from the goalkeeper in quick succession, with powerful shots from outside the area. Kenny Hannah deserved a goal for these two efforts and it arrived in the last minute. However, it didn't come from a spectacular shot, but from a slightly mis-hit effort from the edge of the box that the keeper misjudged, allowing the ball to squeeze under him and roll into the net. Unfortunately for me it meant I lost my small side bet, as I predicted a 5-1 scoreline, but at least it was at the right end.
This win leaves Whitburn needing only one point from the remaining two games to win the league and promotion to the Super League.
It was a great team effort, with everyone doing their bit, and there were several outstanding individual performances.
The Man of the Match goes to Iain Ramage for his first half hat-trick and another good display in the middle of the park.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell(Valentine), Taylor, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis(Lynch), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Sinclair(Cunningham). Subs not used - Gilpin, Gibson
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
St Michael's Cup 3rd round
Bonnyrigg 2 Whitburn 1, Scorer - Ramage
Half time: Bonnyrigg 2 Whitburn 0
Bonnyrigg led 2-0 at half time before Iain Ramage pulled a goal back for Whitburn in the second half.
Man of the Match Iain Ramage
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson, Macdonald(Cunningham), Rixon, Ramage, McNelis(Lynch), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Sinclair. Subs not used - Gilpin, Valentine, Kirk
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
League
Broxburn 0 Whitburn 3, Scorers - Lynch, Rixon, McNelis
Half time: Broxburn 0 Whitburn 0
Whitburn started the better, having most of the ball, a good long range shot from Sinclair going wide of the target on 10 minutes. Kenny Hannah was on the receiving end of a crunching tackle from the number 8, resulting in a yellow card for the Broxburn player who was fortunate to remain on the field.
Colin Strickland was inches away from opening the scoring on 20 minutes with a great effort that went just past the keeper’s left hand post.
Whitburn have Stewart Walker to thank for keeping the score blank on 30 minutes, as he pushed the ball onto the post and away for a corner.
Whitburn were on the receiving end of some heavy tackles from the Broxburn midfield.
Broxburn came close to the opener just on half time with a good effort just over the bar.
In the second half Whitburn stepped up a gear in search of the opening goal. Alan Carswell had a good effort from 25 yards just going over. Whitburn then pushed and were finally rewarded on 50 minutes with the opener. A good corner from Hannah, met by the head of Ramage, forced a good save from the Broxburn keeper, with the ball falling to Peter Lynch who drove the ball low into the net.
Broxburn should have leveled the scoring on 55 minutes with a shot just inches past Walkers post from 10 yards.
Whitburn then went looking for the killer second goal and were playing some good football. The second goal came from another good corner by Hannah and an excellent header brilliantly saved once again by the keeper. Once again the ball fell kindly for Whitburn, this time to Stevie Rixon who made no mistake in firing it into the top corner of the net.
Whitburn were well on top at this stage, the Broxburn keeper being in good form as Whitburn had wave after wave of attack.
Kenny Hannah had a cracking shot saved on 85 minutes.
Whitburn scored just before the final whistle, again from a corner, this time from Strickland, and it was well taken by Eamon McNelis who rattled the ball home from close range.
Broxburn were reduced to 10 men just before the final whistle for a bad tackle on Rixon by the number 6 who saw red.
A well deserved 3 points and a step nearer the title.
Man of the Match this week goes to Mark Sinclair. He worked hard and was full of running.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Taylor(Gibson), Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah, Flanagan(Lynch), Strickland, Sinclair(Valentine). Subs not used - Gilpin, Cunningham
Man of the Match - Mark Sinclair
30-4-05
League
Newtongrange 0 Whitburn 3, Scorers - Ramage(2), Hannah
Half time: Newtongrange 0 Whitburn 1
Whitburn eventually ran out comfortable winners, but Newtongrange matched them for most of the first half.
Whitburn have Stewart Walker to thank for preventing Newtongrange from opening the scoring. Twice during the first half he rushed from his line to save in a one to one situation against opposing forwards.
Whitburn had a great chance to score midway through the half. Iain Ramage headed on a cross from the left to Alan Flanagan in front of goal. Flanagan hit the ball first time when he had time to control it, and the shot went past the post.
Whitburn scored two minutes from the break, and as he has done many times this season, it was captain Iain Ramage who made the breakthrough when he pounced on a loose ball inside the box to fire home.
Whitburn dominated the second half and it took just five minutes to extend their lead.. Mark Sinclair put Flanagan clear on the left, and when he laid the ball back inside, Kenny Hannah had made a great run to side foot the ball into the top corner from around the penalty spot.
Alan Carswell was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet during the second half when he tried his luck with two excellent long range efforts, both of which needed good saves to keep out.
The third goal came in the 80th minute following another good move from Whitburn. Kenny Hannah received a good ball down the right, and hit the goal line before delivering a perfect cross for Iain Ramage to head home.
In what was an excellent and determined display from Whitburn, several players were in contention for Man of the Match. The back four performed well and gave little away. When they were beaten, Stewart Walker was alert and made several excellent saves. Hannah had another good game in the middle of the park. The award this week though goes to Iain Ramage for another powerful game in the midfield and for scoring two goals.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Taylor, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis(Lynch), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Sinclair(Gibson). Subs not used - Gilpin, Valentine, Cunningham
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
League
Whitburn 2 Fauldhouse 1, Scorers - Strickland(pen), Ramage
Half time: Whitburn 0 Fauldhouse 1
A battling second half display gave Whitburn another three valuable League points.
Whitburn started brightly, creating good chances but couldn't get the breakthrough. After 15 minutes, against the run of play, Fauldhouse opened the scoring following a corner with a header at the back post into the top corner.
Whitburn worked hard, but rarely threatened the Fauldhouse goal as moves broke down around the box. Fauldhouse had the upper hand for the remainder of the half, but couldn't add to their earlier goal.
Whitburn stepped up the pace in the second half and were back on level terms after just 5 minutes.
Colin Strickland was tripped in the box and the referee awarded a penalty. It looked a bit harsh on the defender, who was booked for complaining, Strickland took the kick and calmly slotted it into the corner of the net.
A cracking 25 yard shot
by Kenny Hannah went just wide of the keeper's left hand post. Fauldhouse then
missed a glorious chance to take the lead when the ball was played into the box
and somehow the striker put it past the post from 3 yards.
Whitburn then took the
lead on 70 minutes. The Fauldhouse keeper made a good save after good build up
play from Sinclair on the right. The ball fell to Iain Ramage who slotted
it into the net from close range. The Fauldhouse centre back was injured as he tried to clear and had to be
replaced.
Iain Ramage came close with a header, after a good corner from Taylor, but the Fauldhouse keeper showed great reactions to save at close range.
Fauldhouse kept working, but were unable to find a way through the Whitburn defence.
The Man of the Match goes to Kenny Hannah for the second successive game. He had his best game in the centre of the park for some weeks, and worked hard throughout the match.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Lynch(Valentine), Hannah, Sinclair(Kirk), Strickland, Taylor(McNelis). Subs not used - Flanagan, Gibson
Man of the Match - Kenny Hannah
23-4-05
Kia East of Scotland cup 3rd round
Whitburn 1 St Andrews 4, Scorer - Sinclair
Half time: Whitburn 1 St Andrews 2
This was Paul Taylor's 600th game for Whitburn, but unfortunately it wasn't marked with a victory as St Andrews ended up comfortable winners against a disappointing Whitburn team.
St Andrews opened the scoring on the half hour mark when a short pass back allowed one of their forwards to intercept before rounding keeper Walker and rolling the ball into the empty net. Whitburn responded well, and equalised 6 minutes later. A cross from the right found Taylor at the back post. His effort from a tight angle was blocked, but the ball fell for Mark Sinclair, and he wasted no time in putting the ball in the back of the net.
Whitburn were unlucky not to take the lead a few minutes later when a tremendous 30 yard drive by Kenny Hannah crashed back off the bar with the keeper well beaten.
On the stroke of half time, St Andrews went back in front with a soft penalty. A ball into the box was heading wide when it appeared to strike the arm of one of the Whitburn defenders. The referee decided it was deliberate hand ball and awarded a penalty which was easily converted.
Whitburn rarely threatened the St Andrews goal in the second half, and the few chances they had were wasted as players appeared to either lack the confidence to have a shot, or chose the wrong option.
St Andrews extended their lead with a goal that looked suspiciously offside. The Whitburn defence was left stranded as a visiting forward once again got clear to round Stewart Walker and score.
Whitburn had lost Macdonald through injury and pushed Rixon forward in an effort to improve things up front, leaving a makeshift defence. St Andrews cashed in with 15 minutes left when a cross from the left found their number 10 unmarked and able to steer a side foot volley past Walker into the far corner to give the a well deserved victory.
In such a poor team performance it was difficult to pick a Man of the Match. It goes to Kenny Hannah who kept trying even though things weren't going well, and provided one of the few highlights for Whitburn with his long range effort.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald(Gibson), Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah, Sinclair(Valentine), Strickland, Taylor(Lynch). Subs not used - Kirk, Flanagan
Man of the Match - Kenny Hannah
20-4-05
Brown Cup 3rd round
Whitburn 1 Bo'ness 1 (Whitburn won 4-3 on penalties), Scorer - Sinclair
Half time: Whitburn 0 Bo'ness 1
Bo'ness scored after just 10 minutes and should have added to their score, but Stewart Walker in the Whitburn goal had an excellent game.
Whitburn equalised with a cracking shot from Mark Sinclair in the final minute.
The game went to penalties with Whitburn winning 4-3 with goals from Hannah, Strickland, Taylor and Rixon
Man of the Match for the second game in a row is Stewart Walker.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Hannah, Sinclair, Strickland, McNelis, Taylor. Subs not used - Gilpin, Gibson, Kirk, Valentine, Lynch
Man of the Match - Stewart Walker
16-4-05
League
Pumpherston 1 Whitburn 1, Scorer - Ramage
Half time: Pumpherston 0 Whitburn 0
Whitburn dropped two important league points, but it could have been all three, as for most of the first half it was Pumpherston who looked most likely to score. Whitburn keeper Stewart Walker was called into action on several occasions to keep his goal intact, and one save in particular was outstanding, reacting quickly to touch a 25 yard effort over for a corner kick.
Despite their pressure, Pumpherston went in at half time with nothing to show for their efforts.
The second half was only 5 minutes old when Pumpherston opened the scoring. An overhead kick took a deflection off a Whitburn defender and found the net past the wrong-footed Walker.
This seemed to get Whitburn going as they raised their game and pushed Pumpherston back for much of the second half.
The equaliser came in the 65th minute when Iain Ramage collected the ball on the edge of the area, turned, and hit an unstoppable shot into the net.
Whitburn kept up the pressure and had several chances to win the game. Ramage hit a right foot volley just past the post from 12 yards. Then Kenny Hannah made a run up the right before putting in a great cross for Colin Strickland. but his diving header just cleared the bar.
Mark Sinclair made space on the left before crossing to Scott Macdonald, but again the header was off target.
Alan Flanagan also came close with a header, but in the end Whitburn had to settle for a share of the points.
The Man of the Match this week goes to keeper Stewart Walker for some outstanding saves to keep Whitburn in the game.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson(Lynch), Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Valentine(Sinclair), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Taylor(Cunningham). Subs not used - Kirk, McNelis
Man of the Match - Stewart Walker
13-4-05
Brown Cup 2nd round
Whitburn 2 Harthill 0, Scorers - Sinclair, Strickland(pen)
Half time: Whitburn 1 Harthill 0
Both teams had chances during the first half, but it was Whitburn who opened the scoring 5 minutes from the interval. Alan Flanagan played a good ball across the box for Mark Sinclair who came in from the left and hit an unstoppable volley past the keeper into the far corner.
Stevie Rixon was sent off 20 minutes into the second half for receiving his second yellow card of the game. A Harthill forward got clear and as Rixon tried to get back he appeared to catch the player's heel, bringing him down at the edge of the box. Certainly a free kick, but he was a bit unlucky to get sent off.
Colin Strickland was sent through on goal and hit a shot from the edge of the box that crashed off the bar. Harthill were creating chances too, and Stewart Walker was called into action during the second half to make to excellent saves.
Whitburn scored a second goal after 70 minutes with a penalty kick, awarded after Alan Flanagan went down at the left of the area, although it looked a bit harsh on the Harthill defender. Colin Strickland took the penalty and placed it just inside the keepers right hand post.
Harthill's Hendry was sent off with 10 minutes left, for a rash challenge on Flanagan, it being his second booking of the game.
Whitburn missed a sitter in the final minute when Flanagan got free on the right and played the ball low across goal where 3 unmarked Whitburn forwards somehow failed to make contact with the ball with the goal empty.
The Man of the Match tonight goes to Gary Cunningham, who had an excellent game in the centre of defence.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson, Cunningham, Rixon, Ramage, Lynch(Valentine), McNelis, Flanagan, Strickland, Sinclair(Hannah). Subs not used - Gilpin, Taylor, Kirk,
Man of the Match - Gary Cunningham
9-4-05
League
Dunbar 2 Whitburn 3, Scorers - Ramage, Flanagan, Rixon
Half time: Dunbar 1 Whitburn 2
Whitburn once again had to work all the way to secure victory, but came away with another three vital league points.
Dunbar gave Whitburn a couple of early scares, and should have at least hit the target when a knockdown was blasted over the bar from the edge of the box.
Conditions were difficult, with a strong wind and a hard pitch making it difficult to control the ball
Whitburn scored the opening goal after 15 minutes when Iain Ramage ran onto a pass inside the box and drove it home from 12 yards.
The lead only lasted 5 minutes though, as Whitburn conceded an equaliser that could have been avoided. Gibson was short with a pass back to Walker, forcing the Whitburn keeper to make a hurried clearance, that went to a Dunbar man on the right. The ball was immediately put back into the box, and when Walker couldn't gather the high ball it was turned into the net.
Whitburn restored their lead after 35 minutes with a well worked goal. Iain Ramage drove into the left of the box and cut the ball back across goal where Alan Flanagan was on hand to put the ball in the net from 8 yards out.
Whitburn started the second half in positive fashion as they tried to extend their slim lead, and succeeded after just 5 minutes. Some good work on the right between Hannah and Flanagan resulted in the ball being crossed into the box for Stevie Rixon to head home from close range against his former club.
The two goal lead only lasted a couple of minutes though as Dunbar scored from a deflection. The ball was crossed in from the right touchline, but took a slight deflection off Scott Macdonald. Stewart Walker was already moving to cut out the cross, and could only watch as the ball went behind him into the empty net.
That was the end of the scoring, but Whitburn had to work right to the final whistle to make sure of all three points.
The Man of the Match this week is Iain Ramage. He scored the first goal, set up the second, and played a Captain's part by driving the team on to the final whistle.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Valentine(Lynch), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Taylor. Subs not used - Gilpin, Sinclair, Cunningham, McNelis
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
2-4-05
League
Whitburn 1 Newtongrange 0, Scorer - Valentine
Half time: Whitburn 1 Newtongrange 0
This hard fought victory, combined with Dunbar's win against Musselburgh, gave Whitburn a 3 point lead at the top of the table.
Whitburn got off to a great start, opening the scoring after 6 minutes. Whitburn won a corner on the right, and played the ball to the unmarked Jamie Valentine at the edge of the box. Jamie took a touch to control the ball and hit a low shot, that although not cleanly struck, had enough pace to find the corner of the net.
Newtongrange came close to equalising after 15 minutes, when a free kick from 25 yards out hit the bar with Walker beaten.
The match erupted midway through the first half when Colin Strickland was on the receiving end of an elbow to the face in an off the ball incident. Several players became involved in an argument in the centre of the park, and it was some minutes before the referee could restore order and restart the game. Fortunately for the Newtongrange defender, the play was at the other end of the field at the time and the referee missed the incident.
On the half hour mark Hannah came in from the right to get on the end of a deep cross from Gibson, but his header went just past the far post.
Newtongrange made more of a game of it during the second half, and pushed Whitburn back for long spells in an effort to find an equaliser. However, Whitburn defended well, and although Walker had to deal with some good crosses into the box, he was well protected by his defence and didn't have to make any serious saves.
Peter Lynch came on with 15 minutes remaining, and helped take some pressure off the defence with his willingness to make runs and hold the ball.
Newtongrange's number 11 was sent of with minutes remaining for his second caution of the game.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Scott Macdonald for another solid display at centre back.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Valentine(McNelis), Hannah, Flanagan(Lynch), Strickland, Taylor. Subs not used - Gilpin, Sinclair, Cunningham
Man of the Match - Scott Macdonald
26-3-05
St Michael's cup 2nd round
Whitburn 4 Tranent 0, Scorers - Strickland(3), Flanagan.
Half time: Whitburn 1 Tranent 0
Whitburn progressed comfortably to the next round, and look to be regaining some of the form that took them on an impressive winning streak before Christmas.
The opening goal came in the 15th minute, Peter Lynch making a good run up the right and crossing the ball perfectly for Colin Strickland to head home. Five minutes later, Iain Ramage worked his way through on goal, but passed up a shooting opportunity to lay the ball off for Strickland, who's shot was blocked.
Tranent came into the game after Whitburn's opener and enjoyed a fair bit of possession without seriously troubling Walker in the Whitburn goal.
Whitburn extended their lead with just 5 minutes of the second half played. Alan Carswell crossed the ball into the box from the right, and Alan Flanagan was unchallenged as he rose to head the ball into the net from 8 yards out.
Tranent had a great chance to pull a goal back a couple of minutes later when a long ball put their forward through on goal. However, Walker was out quickly to make a good block.
In the 57th minute, Tranent lost the ball from a throw in and Colin Strickland reacted quickly at the edge of the box to drive the ball home to make the score 3-0.
Strickland was unlucky not to complete his hat trick in the 61st minute when he lobbed the goalkeeper from the edge of the box, only to see the ball come back off the post for the keeper to collect.
However, his moment of glory was only delayed for a minute, as Alan Flanagan broke through on the right and unselfishly passed the ball across goal for Colin Strickland to tap home his third and Whitburn's fourth goal.
Tranent had a final chance to score a consolation goal near the end, but the shot was blocked.
The Man of the Match this week is Colin Strickland. He scored his second hat trick of the season, and did a lot of good work in Whitburn's build up play.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson, Macdonald(Cunningham), Rixon, Ramage, Lynch(McNelis), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Taylor(Kirk). Subs not used - Gilpin, Sinclair
Man of the Match - Colin Strickland
19-3-05
Kia East of Scotland cup 2nd round
Livingston 0 Whitburn 5, Scorers - Hannah, Strickland(2(1 pen)), Ramage, Flanagan
Half time: Livingston 0 Whitburn 1
Livingston almost opened the scoring in the first minute when the ball was directed goalwards from the edge of the box, but Walker managed to stop the effort. After that, Whitburn dominated the game and could have been 3 or 4 goals up at half time.
Jamie Valentine rattled the crossbar with a cracking 25 yard shot, Iain Ramage was denied on the goal line as he was about to tap the ball home. On another occasion the keeper could only half stop a powerful shot, but a defender was able to clear off the line.
Five minutes from half time, Whitburn were awarded a penalty when Michael Gibson was pushed over in front of goal just as he was about to head the ball into an open net. The defender was sent off for denying a clear scoring opportunity. Kenny Hannah struck the kick well, but it hit the underside off the crossbar and was cleared. Three minutes later Whitburn at last took the lead, and it was Kenny Hannah who made up for his penalty miss by driving the ball home from the right side of the box.
Five minutes into the second half, Whitburn were awarded another penalty when Ramage was brought down in the box. This time it was taken by Colin Strickland, and he scored with a well placed shot low to the keeper's right. Iain Ramage was next to get on the score sheet when he stole into the box in the 55th minute to round the keeper and score. In the 70th minute Alan Flanagan rose unchallenged to head home another good cross from the left.
Colin Strickland completed the scoring in the 75th minute when he fired home from the edge of the box.
Livingston created a couple of late chances but were unable to score what would have been a consolation goal.
Willie Kirk made a short appearance in his first game back after a long time off through injury.
Man of the Match this week goes to Stevie Rixon for another excellent display at the back.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Gibson(Cunningham), Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Valentine, Hannah, Flanagan(Kirk), Strickland, McNelis(Lynch). Subs not used - Gilpin, Sinclair
Man of the Match - Stevie Rixon
League
Fauldhouse 1 Whitburn 1, Scorer - Flanagan
Half time: Fauldhouse 0 Whitburn 0
Whitburn started well, and pushed Fauldhouse back as they probed for the opening goal. However, it was Fauldhouse who came closest to opening the scoring when, after 15 minutes, a cross from the left almost sneaked in under the bar, Walker making a fine save to keep the ball out.
The rest of the first half was dominated by Fauldhouse, and they created several good scoring chances, only poor finishing preventing them from taking the lead.
Whitburn started the second half well and Paul Taylor tested the keeper with a 20 yard effort.
Whitburn opened the scoring in the 55th minute. Again it was Taylor who tried his luck, this time with a terrific 30 yard shot that the keeper could only manage to touch onto the bar. The ball dropped kindly for Whitburn, and with the keeper grounded, Alan Flanagan had an easy job of putting the ball into the net.
Iain Ramage came close with a low shot from 20 yards that went just past the post with the keeper wrong footed and unable to do anything to stop it.
Fauldhouse gradually came back into the game, and as the half went on it was they who looked most likely to score. They almost did with 10 minutes left when a looping header hit the top of the bar and went over with Walker stranded.
With 3 minutes remaining, Fauldhouse scored a well deserved equaliser when a well struck shot on the turn flew into the top corner of the net.
Apart from a short spell in each half, this was a poor performance by Whitburn, resulting in the loss of two valuable league points.
Whitburn's best player and this week's Man of the Match was Paul Taylor. He had composure when in possession, and played a major part in Whitburn's goal.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Valentine(McNelis), Hannah, Strickland(Lynch), Flanagan, Taylor. Subs not used - Gilpin, Gibson, Sinclair
Man of the Match - Paul Taylor
5-3-05
League
Whitburn 2 Dunbar 1, Scorers - Carswell, Strickland
Half time: Whitburn 0 Dunbar 0
Whitburn went back to the top of the table with this narrow win over Dunbar.
Whitburn came close to opening the scoring on several occasions during the first half. Iain Ramage got past the goalkeeper in a goalmouth scramble, but had the ball knocked away from him just as he was about to put it into the net from on the goal line.
A speculative long range effort looked to be an easy catch for the Dunbar keeper, but he fumbled it and it bounced out of his arms and struck the post before being gathered at the second attempt. Alan Carswell had a terrific effort from 25 yards that crashed off the bar with the keeper beaten. Despite these chances, the teams went in at half time with the score 0-0.
Dunbar had the wind at their backs in the second half and took full advantage to push Whitburn back into defence. They took the lead after 60 minutes when a corner kick from the left was headed home at the back post. Dunbar kept up the pressure and came close to extending their lead, and gave the Whitburn defence some problems.
Midway through the half, Whitburn made a double substitution, Taylor and Valentine coming on for McNelis and Sinclair.
Whitburn got themselves back into the game with 15 minutes remaining. With the goal at his mercy, Kenny Hannah mistimed a header from a great cross by Flanagan. Whitburn retained possession and when Alan Carswell received the ball from Valentine he hit a low drive from 20 yards out that found it's way to the net through a crowded box.
Five minutes later Whitburn scored the winner when Colin Strickland collected the ball after Flanagan's shot had been blocked, and hit a low shot into the net.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Stewart Walker who had a good game in goal in his first game back after suspension.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis(Valentine), Hannah, Strickland, Flanagan, Sinclair(Taylor). Subs not used - Gilpin, Gibson, McGhee
Man of the Match - Stewart Walker
19-2-05
League
Musselburgh 1 Whitburn 0
Half time: Musselburgh 1 Whitburn 0
Whitburn's League hopes were given a setback with this defeat to one of their main challengers. Both teams had chances to score during the first half. Musselburgh came closest when a lob from the left of the area bounced off the post and was cleared. Whitburn had a chance when Ramage was put through but was unable to steer his effort past the keeper. Strickland also came close with a low shot from the edge of the box that went just past the post.
Musselburgh scored the only goal of the game in the 65th minute when their centre found room on the left to run into the box and slip the ball under keeper Gilpin.
Colin Strickland almost scored with another low shot from outside the box, this time his effort coming back off the base of the post with the keeper beaten.
In the final minute, Iain Ramage almost snatched an equaliser for Whitburn when he got a foot to a ball into the box and managed to direct it goalwards, but it struck the post and the chance was gone.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Stevie Rixon.
Whitburn team : Gilpin, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald(McGhee), Rixon, McNelis, Hannah(Valentine), Ramage, Strickland, Flanagan, Sinclair. Subs not used - McAllister, Kenny, Gibson
Man of the Match - Stevie Rixon
12-2-05
League
Armadale 0 Whitburn 3, Scorers - Rixon, Flanagan(2)
Half time: Armadale 0 Whitburn 0
Like last week, Whitburn could have been 2 or 3 goals down at half time, but a combination of poor finishing by Armadale and good defending kept the score at 0-0. Whitburn started off brightly and were moving the ball about well, despite the heavy conditions.
Armadale came into the game and on several occasions, runs from deep saw forwards break through the Whitburn defence and through on debut goalkeeper Ross Gilpin, However, the finishing from the Dale players was poor, and too often they failed to hit the target. On other occasions they were denied by a great covering tackle from Alan Carswell, and Gary Cunningham showing great awareness to get back and head a powerful goal bound shot over the bar after Stevie Rixon had lost possession at the edge of the area. Whitburn had chances too, the best move of the half involving several quick passes up the right, which took them from their own half into the Armadale area, but unfortunately it didn't bring the goal the move deserved. Whitburn had the ball in the net, Strickland tapping the ball home, but the referee decided Iain Ramage's challenge for the loose ball with the keeper was illegal.
Whitburn stepped up the pace in the second half, looking for three league points which could be vital in such a short league campaign. As the half progressed, some of the Whitburn support were becoming agitated with the team's inability to make the breakthrough, but their anxieties were eased in the 65th minute.
Despite the mistake mentioned earlier, and a short header that nearly had Scott Macdonald in trouble in the first half, Stevie Rixon deserves praise for yet another composed display at the heart of Whitburn's defence. And it was he who put Whitburn on the way to victory. Having made a foray into the opposition box, he collected a pass from Valentine and made no mistake in blasting it home from 12 yards, via the underside of the bar. Two minutes later, Alan Flanagan gave Whitburn some breathing space when he got on the end of a knock down from Hannah and steered the ball under the diving keeper into the net.
New keeper Ross Gilpin was called into action to make an instinctive block to put the ball out for a corner, after Dale broke into the box from the right, and on another couple of occasions made good punched clearances to take pressure off his defence.
At the other end Eamon McNelis came close to extending Whitburn's lead when he got on the end of a cross from the left from Sinclair, but his shot flew across the goal and just past the post.
With a couple of minutes remaining, Alan Flanagan scored Whitburn's third goal when he steered a shot from 14 yards into the net off the base of the post, having been set up by Carswell.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Alan Carswell who had an excellent game at left back, defending when required, and getting forward to help build up attacks down Whitburn's left.
Whitburn team : Gilpin, Cunningham(Valentine), Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah, Strickland, Flanagan, Gibson(Sinclair). Subs not used - McAllister, McGhee, Kenny
Man of the Match - Alan Carswell
5-2-05
Fife and Lothian's Cup 3rd round
Whitburn 1 Arniston 3 after extra time (1-1 at 90 minutes), Scorer - Ramage
Half time: Whitburn 0 Arniston 0
Arniston should have been at least a couple of goals ahead at half time, having created several good chances. Twice they were denied by Whitburn defenders managing to block goal bound efforts, and on another couple of occasions were let down by poor finishing.
Whitburn, who were without the services of Flanagan and McNelis,
created few chances and found it difficult to get going against their Super League opponents.
Whitburn started the second half better, and were enjoying more possession in Arniston's half. However it was Arniston who opened the scoring midway through the half, Nicol breaking into the box on the left and driving the ball between Walker and the near post from 12 yards out.
Whitburn pushed Rixon up field in an effort to find the equaliser. Just as it looked as though Arniston were going to hold out, Iain Ramage pounced on a loose ball inside the box in injury time and drove it home to take the game into extra time.
Whitburn had a great chance to take the lead in the first period of extra time. Alan Carswell broke into the box and rounded the keeper. However, his shot from a tight angle went across the face of goal and out for a goal kick. A few minutes later, Carswell again had a chance when the ball was laid off to him, but his 25 yard shot went well over the bar.
Whitburn were to regret this lost chance a few minutes later when Arniston scored a goal out of nothing. Whitburn failed to clear the ball and when it broke to Fraser outside the box he hit a low shot just inside the post. A minute later it was 3-1 when Nicol scored with a penalty after Nisbet was brought down inside the box.
This was a disappointing display by Whitburn, and they didn't show anything like what they are capable of. Few players produced an above par performance, but one who did was Iain Ramage who is this week's Man of the Match.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Kenny(Gibson), Hannah, Valentine(McAllister), Strickland, Sinclair(McGhee). Subs not used - Taylor, Beveridge
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
29-1-05
East of Scotland Cup 1st round
Whitburn 4 Edinburgh United 1, Scorers - Valentine, Flanagan(2), Ramage
Half time: Whitburn 2 Edinburgh United 1
Edinburgh had most of the early pressure and deservedly took the lead after 14 minutes. Slack play in the Whitburn defence let James Murray through on Walker who managed to challenge at the edge of the area, but the Edinburgh player was able to get clear and find the net. The lead was short lived as Whitburn equalised in the 15th minute. Recent signing Jamie Valentine, playing at right back, collected the ball 25 yards out and hit a low left foot drive that the keeper and a defender on the line were unable to keep out.
One minute later Whitburn went ahead when Alan Flanagan picked up a mis-hit clearance by the Edinburgh keeper, beat a defender and chipped the ball into the net from outside the box.
Five minutes into the second half Whitburn extended their lead when a great through ball from Valentine allowed Alan Flanagan to take the ball in his stride and round the keeper before slotting the ball home.
The final goal came with just a couple of minutes remaining when a deep free kick by Cunningham was headed on by Rixon for Iain Ramage to volley into the net from 8 yards out.
Whitburn were well in control of this game after the opening period and came close to adding to the score on several occasions.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Stevie Rixon for another fine display in the centre of defence, although several others were in contention, most notably Flanagan, Carswell and Cunningham
Whitburn team : Walker, Valentine, Carswell, Cunningham, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis(McAllister), Hannah, Strickland(McGhee), Flanagan, Sinclair(Kenny). Subs not used - Gibson, Taylor.
Man of the Match - Stevie Rixon
15-1-05
O.V.D. Scottish Cup 4th round
Pollok 5 Whitburn 0
Half time: Pollok 3 Whitburn 0
Whitburn crashed out of this season's Scottish cup with their heaviest defeat in the competition since they lost by the same score to Lesmahagow in season 90-91.
Pollok attacked straight from the kick off, looking for an early goal before Whitburn had time to settle. Whitburn looked to have withstood the early pressure, but were hit on the break in the 8th minute after a Whitburn attack broke down. Pollok played the ball up the right before it was switched to the left where the unmarked Tinney was left with only the goalkeeper to beat, and made no mistake in doing so.
Whitburn were unlucky not to equalise 5 minutes later when Iain Ramage hit a first time shot from just inside the box that rattled the underside of the bar and bounced down before being cleared. If that effort had gone in it might have been a different game, but it was Pollok who scored the next goal. The ball was played through the middle, and Whitburn's central defenders both appeared to leave it to each other allowing Friels a clear run on goal where he beat Walker with a clinical finish.
In the 35th minute Alan Flanagan got clear on the left, but his shot from the corner of the box flew past the far post.
Five minutes from half time, the game was effectively over as a contest when Pollok scored a third goal and Whitburn were reduced to ten men in the process McLauchlan cut in from the right and rounded keeper Walker to leave himself with an open goal. Just as he was about to put the ball in the net he was brought down from behind by Macdonald. The Whitburn player was ordered off for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, and Tinney scored from the resultant penalty to make the half time score 3-0.
Whitburn competed better in the second half, but 3-0 down and a man short, it was a case of damage limitation. Pollok, knowing the tie was won, did not appear to play with the same drive in the second half.
Whitburn brought on Sincalir at half time in place of Gibson, and he made some good runs up the left, but was unable to deliver many telling balls into the box. On one occasion though, a deep cross from the left beat the keeper and hit the top of the bar.
Ramage and Hannah had good efforts from distance, but failed to trouble the Pollok keeper.
Midway through the half Whitburn brought on Jamie Valentine in place of Kenny Hannah for his first appearance for the club.
As the half went on, and with some Whitburn players starting to tire, Pollok pushed forward more and extended their lead with 10 minutes remaining.
Goalkeeper Walker was challenged by Pollok's McLauchlan inside the six yard box and reacted by kicking out at the player. A moment of indiscipline that resulted in him being ordered off on the instructions of the assistant referee, the referee being in the centre of the park with the play. A penalty was awarded and Mark Sinclair took over in goal, his first job being to pick the ball out of the net from Tinney's spot kick.
A few minutes later Pollok were awarded a free kick just outside the box. The kick beat the wall and was on target, but Sinclair made a great save, diving low to his left to turn the ball round for a corner.
With five minutes remaining, Pollok scored again when a cross from the right was headed home at the back post by Friels.
Whitburn were well beaten by an impressive Pollok team, and it would be no surprise if they went on to lift the trophy just as they did the last time they beat Whitburn, in season 96-97. Perhaps Whitburn didn't deserve to lose by such a big margin, but that is always likely when playing half the match with reduced numbers against such opposition.
In a game where Whitburn never really got going, it was difficult to pick a Man of the Match. It goes to Iain Ramage who worked hard in the middle of the park and came closest to scoring for Whitburn when his early effort hit the bar.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah(Valentine), Strickland, Flanagan, Gibson(Sinclair). Subs not used - McAllister, Kenny, McGhee
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
18-12-04
League
Sauchie 1 Whitburn 4, Scorers - Ramage, Rixon, McNelis, Taylor
Half time: Whitburn 0 Sauchie 0
Another tremendous second half performance gave Whitburn all three points against a team who are expected to be one of the challengers for the league. This was Whitburn's ninth successive victory and they kept their habit of averaging 4 goals a game during this run. There is no truth in the rumour that they have changed their name to Whitburnfour.
The first half was fairly even with both teams coming close to scoring. Eamon McNelis had a chance for Whitburn when he was set up at the right of the box. However, he failed to get any power in his low shot and it was easily saved.
Kenny Hannah did better when he cut in from the left and hit a fierce low drive that was goal bound until it was blocked on the line.
At the other end Sauchie could also consider themselves unlucky not to score on a couple of occasions. A powerful drive from the edge of the box was blocked by a Whitburn defender in a crowded box, and they came even closer when another shot from the edge of the box was deflected by Rixon and struck the post with Walker beaten.
The second half was only 10 minutes old when Whitburn made the breakthrough, Iain Ramage once again being in the right position to put the ball in the net with a well controlled drive from10 yards.
The second goal came in the 60th minute and it was the best of the day. With Sauchie on the attack, Kenny Hannah picked up a loose ball and made a 50 yard pass to Alan Flanagan at the edge of the box. Flanagan laid it off for Stevie Rixon who had made a great run from deep in support, and the centre half wasted no time in driving the ball into the net.
Sauchie pulled a goal back just 2 minutes later after they had won a free kick just outside the box on the right. Stewart Walker made a great diving save to keep the ball out, but it dropped for the number 4 and he scored easily.
Whitburn restored their two goal advantage just 2 minutes after that, Eamon McNelis coming in at the back post to convert a low cross from close range after another counterattack.
Paul Taylor made sure of all 3 points for Whitburn in the 78th minute. McNelis had a shot from the right of the box blocked, but the ball rebounded to Strickland on the 18 yard line. He laid it off to Flanagan who in turn laid it off for Taylor to fire home and give Whitburn fans an early Christmas present.
With only 16 games in the league campaign this season, goal difference could decide who finishes top, so to win by 3 goals against one of the likely challengers away from home was a tremendous result.
There were several candidates for the Man of the Match, but this week Kenny Hannah just pips Iain Ramage for the award.
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Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah, Strickland, Flanagan(McGhee), Taylor(Gibson). Subs not used - McAllister, Kenny, Leiper
Man of the Match - Kenny Hannah
11-12-04
Brown Cup 1st round
Whitburn 5 Tranent 0, Scorers - Ramage, Flanagan, Strickland(2), Sinclair
Half time: Whitburn 1 Tranent 0
Another strong second half performance saw Whitburn ease through to the second round of the Brown Cup. The first half was more evenly contested, as Tranent were full of running and gave Whitburn little time on the ball.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute. Whitburn were awarded a free kick wide on the left. It was taken by Paul Taylor who played it into the centre of the box for Iain Ramage to steal in front of a defender and glance a header into the net from 6 yards.
Tranent did plenty of attacking during the first half, and Whitburn's defence had to work hard to keep them from scoring. Stevie Rixon showed great composure under pressure, and Scott MacDonald was as solid as ever beside him.
Whitburn doubled their lead just six minutes into the second half Kenny Hannah played a forty yard pass to Iain Ramage on the left of the box. Rambo directed it back inside where it was converted by Alan Flanagan to finish off a great move.
In the 64th minute, it was Colin Strickland who got on the scoresheet when he was in the right place to slam the ball into the net from close range after it had first been blocked then come off the crossbar.
Mark Sinclair came on as a substitute for Flanagan, and in the 75th minute he was in the right place to collect a fumbled ball by the Tranent keeper and score easily.
Paul Taylor was sent off with 15 minutes remaining. Tranent were awarded a free kick which they took quickly. Unfortunately, the referee couldn't have seen the kick being taken, and when Taylor intercepted and put the ball in the net he was yellow carded. Being his second booking of the game, he had to go off. Word is that the referee rescinded the second yellow card after the game, having realised that it was given in error. If that is the case, then credit to him as he could have taken the easy way out and let the booking stand.
With a couple of minutes remaining, Whitburn finished the scoring with a classic counter-attacking goal. From a Tranent corner kick, Kenny Hannah collected the ball inside his own box before playing a long ball up the middle. A combination of the bounce and pressure from Colin Strickland beat the Tranent defender, allowing Strickland to round the keeper and score his second goal of the game.
Whitburn could have scored another couple of goals during that second half. First Alan Flanagan was through with just the keeper to beat, but unselfishly chose to cut the ball across goal where Strickland would have had an easy tap-in. However, the pass was over-hit and the chance was lost. On another occasion, Stevie Rixon went on a great run through the middle, driving through several Tranent players and into the box where his well hit shot brought out a great save from the keeper. A goal for Rixon would have been well deserved, the player having another fine game in the centre of defence.
In the final minute a Tranent player was sent off for something he said to the referee.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Colin Strickland. He worked hard all afternoon, and scored two goals.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham(Haddow), Carswell, Macdonald(Leiper), Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah, Strickland, Flanagan(Sinclair), Taylor. Subs not used - McAllister, Kenny
Man of the Match - Colin Strickland
4-12-04
O.V.D. Scottish Cup 3rd round
Whitburn 3 Lewis United 1, Scorers - Ramage(2), McNelis
Half time: Whitburn 1 Lewis United 0
Whitburn were made to work all the way against a well organised Lewis United side before progressing to the fourth round.
With a strong wind at their backs, Lewis did most of the attacking during the first half, but as often happens, it was they who conceded the first goal. It came in the 35th minute when Kenny Hannah intercepted a poor clearance just outside the area, and played the ball inside for Iain Ramage to collect and fire home.
A minute later and Ramage almost made it 2-0, but his shot struck the crossbar and was cleared.
Before the opening goal, Whitburn's defence had to be alert to contain the Lewis forwards who were moving the ball about well. On one occasion, only a great last ditch tackle from Alan Carswell on the 6 yard line stopped a Lewis forward after he had broken through on goal.
As expected. Whitburn had the upper hand during the second half, but it was not until the 70th minute that they scored the second goal. Alan Flanagan did well on the left wing to beat the Lewis full back and deliver a perfect cross into the box, where Iain Ramage scored his second goal of the game with a well placed header. Ramage came close to completing his hat trick on a couple of occasions after that with shots from the edge of the box, but each time was denied by blocks from the Lewis defenders.
With a couple of minutes left, Eamon McNelis scored Whitburn's third goal when he got in front of the defence to side foot the ball into the net from close range following more good work by Alan Flanagan.
Lewis scored in injury time when the ball was headed onto the crossbar from a corner kick and dropped kindly to one of their players at the back post for him to fire home.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Iain Ramage who put in another powerful display in midfield, and ensured Whitburn's victory with two well taken goals.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, McNelis, Hannah(Sinclair), Strickland, Flanagan, Gibson(Taylor). Subs not used - McAllister, McGhee, Leiper
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
League
Whitburn 4 Broxburn 0, Scorers - Rixon, Carswell, Strickland, Ramage
Half time: Whitburn 1 Broxburn 0
For the sixth game in a row, Whitburn scored four goals, and in doing so secured three valuable league points.
Broxburn had a golden chance to open the scoring after fifteen minutes when they were awarded a penalty kick after keeper Walker brought down his opponent as he broke through on goal. However the Whitburn keeper made amends when he dived low to his right to make a fine save.
Whitburn took time to get into their stride, but made the breakthrough in the 32nd minute. Kenny Hannah took a corner kick on the left and Stevie Rixon drifted into the box to power home a header.
Two minutes into the second half and it was Whitburn's turn to be awarded a penalty kick when Strickland was brought down in the box. Strickland took the penalty himself, but uncharacteristically blasted the ball high over the bar.
The next goal wasn't long in coming though, and it was full back Alan Carswell who did the business with a well placed drive from the edge of the box in the 55th minute.
Five minutes later and Colin Strickland made amends for his penalty miss when he received a great pass from Kenny Hannah, dribbled into the box, round the keeper and slotted the ball home.
Iain Ramage finished the scoring in the 80th minute when he stole in at the back post to convert a cross from the right.
On a slippery surface, this was a good performance from Whitburn, with several players in contention for Man of the Match. For the second week in a row it goes to Stevie Rixon who keeps improving in the centre back position, and set Whitburn on their way with the opening goal.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell(Haddow), Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(Leiper), Hannah, Strickland, McNelis, Gibson(Taylor). Subs not used - McAllister, McGhee
Man of the Match - Stevie Rixon
13-11-04
League
Whitburn 4 Pumpherston 1, Scorers - Rixon, Ramage, Strickland, Flanagan
Half time: Whitburn 1 Pumpherston 1
Pumpherston took the lead after just 7 minutes when Stevie Dickov scored with an excellent chip from the corner of the box that floated over Stewart Walker into the corner of the net. Pumpherston were the better team for most of the first half, but went in at half time level after Whitburn equalised in the 32nd minute. For once the Pumpherston defence lost their organisation allowing Stevie Rixon to head home at the back post after the ball had been headed on to him following a free kick.
Whitburn took control of the second half and eventually ran out comfortable winners. Kenny Hannah had a low shot turned round the post, but from the corner kick, Iain Ramage blasted the ball into the roof of the net from 8 yards out.
Colin Strickland showed his strikers instinct when he had to adjust quickly to control a pass from Flanagan and shoot low into the net from the edge of the box.
Alan Flanagan finished the scoring when he headed home a cross from the right by Gibson.
This week's Man of the Match is Stevie Rixon. He showed great composure in defence and scored the goal that got Whitburn back into the game.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(Hannah), McNelis, Strickland(McGhee), Flanagan, Gibson(Leiper). Subs not used - McAllister, Taylor
Man of the Match - Stevie Rixon
6-11-04
O.V.D. Scottish Cup 2nd round
Harthill 1 Whitburn 4, Scorers - Strickland (3 (1 pen)), Flanagan
Half time: Harthill 0 Whitburn 1
Whitburn progressed to the 3rd round of this season's competition at the expense of local rivals Harthill.
New signing Michael Gibson started his first competitive game for Whitburn, taking up position on the left of midfield, and had a good game before being replaced by Colin Leiper in the closing stages.
In the end it was a comfortable win, but for much of the first half it was Harthill who looked most likely to open the scoring. Whitburn's defence stood firm during that spell, with Stevie Rixon and Scott Macdonald at the heart of the defence in particular having an outstanding game.
The surface was heavy and slippery from rain earlier in the week, and mistakes were always likely to be made. It was from such a mistake that Harthill had their best chance of the half. Stevie Rixon was short with a headed pass back allowing Harthill's forward through on Stewart Walker. However, Scott Macdonald came to the rescue with a great covering tackle just inside the box as the player was about to shoot.
Stewart Walker had to be sharp to save a long range effort down at his left post. McNelis looked as though he was going to head the shot clear, but at the last second he decided to leave it forcing Walker to react quickly.
A bit against the run of play, it was Whitburn who opened the scoring 5 minutes from the break. Alan Flanagan was brought down as he broke into the box and Colin Strickland scored from the spot with a well taken penalty. A couple of minutes before that, Whitburn had another penalty claim turned down when McNelis looked to be brought down.
Harthill came out for the second half and put Whitburn under pressure as they went in search of an equaliser. Stewart Walker was called into action again to make an acrobatic save to tip a fierce shot over for a corner.
Against the run of play again it was Whitburn who scored. A long kick out by Stewart Walker beat the Harthill defence, allowing Alan Flanagan to run through and score in the 55th minute.
Five minutes later Whitburn sealed victory when they went 3-0 ahead, Colin Strickland showing his strikers instinct to score from close range from a low cross from the right.
Whitburn were dominating now, and had several chances to extend their lead. Stevie Rixon came close with a header at the back post following a corner kick, and Alan Flanagan opted to shoot first time when the ball was crossed from the left, not realising he had time to bring the ball under control. The effort went high over the bar. New signing Michael Gibson was unlucky not to score on his debut when his shot rattled the post and rebounded clear.
Eventually the pressure told and it was Colin Strickland who was in position to glance a header into the net for his hat trick in the 70th minute.
With five minutes remaining, Harthill scored a consolation goal from the penalty spot after one of their players was tripped in the box.
In a good team performance by Whitburn, the Man of the Match award goes to Colin Strickland for a well taken hat trick, as well as good work in Whitburn's build-up play. He was run close though by a solid display from Scott Macdonald at centre half.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham(Thomson), Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, McNelis, Strickland(McAllister), Flanagan, Gibson(Leiper). Subs not used - Beveridge, McGhee
Man of the Match - Colin Strickland
23-10-04
Fife & Lothian's Cup 2nd round
Bo'ness 2 Whitburn 4, Scorers - Ramage, Flanagan, Sinclair, McAllister
Half time: Bo'ness 1 Whitburn 2
It took just five minutes for Whitburn to take the lead against their Super League opponents, Iain Ramage being in the right place to slot the ball home. However, it was Bo'ness who had most of the pressure for the next 25 minutes and they deservedly equalised on the half hour mark when a half clearance from a corner kick was driven through a crowd of players into the net from the edge of the box by Smith. During that spell of pressure, keeper Stewart Walker had several good saves to keep Bo'ness out.
The equaliser prompted Whitburn to go on the attack again, and they regained the lead just a minute before half time. Colin Strickland collected the ball 30 yards out and took out the defence with a pass to Alan Flanagan at the left of the box. Although looking offside, he was allowed to carry on and made no mistake in placing the ball past the keeper into the far corner of the net.
Bo'ness almost equalised again within minutes of the restart when a shot from Smith rattled the crossbar with Walker beaten.
Whitburn extended their lead in the 65th minute when Mark Sinclair cut inside from the right and place a shot from the edge of the box low into the goal, out of reach of the diving keeper.
Alan Flanagan got through on goal but was brought down at the edge of the box with just the keeper to beat. To the amazement of the crowd, the Bo'ness defender only received a yellow card, despite clearly being the last man. Strickland curled the free kick low around the defensive wall, but it was well saved by the keeper.
With just a couple of minutes remaining, Bo'ness pulled a goal back. Stewart Walker made a brilliant save but the ball fell to Thomas who wasted no time in putting the ball in the net with a spectacular overhead kick. The lifeline didn't last long though, as within a minute Whitburn had re-established their two goal cushion. Flanagan played the ball across goal for James McAllister, on as a substitute for Paul Taylor, and he shot low into the net for his first goal for Whitburn.
This week's Man of the Match goes to Alan Flanagan. He scored a goal, was involved in the build up for another two, and worked tirelessly all afternoon.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Carswell, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, McNelis, Strickland(McGhee), Flanagan, Taylor(McAllister). Subs not used - Beveridge, Leiper
Man of the Match - Alan Flanagan
9-10-04
League Cup section match
Livingston 0 Whitburn 4, Scorers - Strickland, Taylor, Flanagan, Ramage
Half time: Livingston 0 Whitburn 2
Whitburn completed their League Cup section matches with a comfortable victory, but now have to wait for Musselburgh and Sauchie to play their remaining fixtures before they know if they have qualified for the semi finals.
Whitburn dominated most of the game, but Livingston were dangerous on the break, and Whitburn's defence had to be alert.
Whitburn came close to opening the scoring after 30 minutes. Mark Sinclair made a good run from the right before hitting a left foot shot that crashed of the crossbar. It fell for Alan Flanagan who placed the ball past the keeper only to see it come back off the post before being cleared.
The first goal was only delayed a few minutes though, as Colin Strickland got on the end of a deep cross from the left to side foot home.
With half time approaching Whitburn got the second goal their play deserved, Paul Taylor being in the right place to prod the ball home from 4 yards out, although their was a suspicion of offside about the move.
Alan Flanagan made it 0-3 after 75 minutes when he ran on to a great long pass from Rixon and coolly placed the ball past the keeper into the net.
In the 88th minute, Iain Ramage scored the goal of the game. An attempted clearance dropped to him 20 yards out and he hit an unstoppable left foot shot volley into the top corner.
In a good team performance by Whitburn, the Man of the Match goes to Colin Leiper who defended well at left back, and also managed to get forward to build up attacks.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham(McNelis), Leiper, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, Carswell, Strickland, Flanagan(McGhee), Taylor(McAllister). Subs not used - Beveridge, Trialist
Man of the Match - Colin Leiper
2-10-04
League Cup section match
Whitburn 4 Musselburgh 1, Scorers - Flanagan, Strickland(2), Hannah
Half time: Whitburn 1 Musselburgh 0
Following two consecutive defeats, Whitburn got back on track with a comfortable victory. The first goal came after 25 minutes when Mark Sinclair made a good run on the right before crossing into the box where Alan Flanagan volleyed home.
Whitburn went two goals ahead after 65 minutes. Colin Strickland collected the ball outside the box on the left, cut along the 18 yard line and fired a low shot into the far corner that gave the keeper no chance.
Five minutes later and Colin Strickland sealed the victory with a spectacular goal. An attempted clearance by Musselburgh was blocked and spun high into the air before dropping nicely for Strickland at the edge of the box. He hit it as it dropped low into the corner, again giving the keeper no chance to save.
With ten minutes remaining Musselburgh were awarded a penalty when Davy McGlynn tumbled in the box. In the ensuing protests by Whitburn, goalkeeper Stewart Walker was booked. Musselburgh scored from the spot to make it 3-1.
Whitburn restored their 3 goal advantage with 5 minutes remaining when Kenny Hannah hit an unstoppable drive from the edge of the box into the net. That fourth goal could prove important as the section could eventually be decided on goal difference.
The action wasn't over, as with just a couple of minutes remaining, Whitburn's Lloyd Haddow was sent off. As he got up from a tackle he appeared to run at his opponent and barged him. There didn't seem to be too much in it, and a yellow card was probably justified but the referee decided it merited a red card and so Haddow was ordered of for the second time in three games, both against Musselburgh.
This was a determined display by Whitburn, and the result was a fair reflection of the game.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Colin Strickland for his two well taken goals as well as good work outside the box, including helping out in defence when needed.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Haddow, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(McAllister), Hannah, Strickland(McGhee), Flanagan Taylor(Leiper). Subs not used - McNelis, Trialist
Man of the Match - Colin Strickland
25-9-04
League Cup section match
Penicuik 3 Whitburn 1, Scorer - Taylor
Half time: Penicuik 0 Whitburn 0
This was a poor performance by Whitburn that leaves them depending on results elsewhere to allow them to progress to the semi final that looked to be within their grasp prior to last week.
Penicuik were the sharper team throughout and played some neat passing football. In contrast, Whitburn were struggling to keep possession, and most of their attacks broke down before they were able to threaten the Penicuik goal.
Whitburn had the best chance of the half though, when Alan Flanagan had a free header from six yards out. Unfortunately he headed straight at the keeper when a metre either side would have almost certainly resulted in a goal. Whitburn came close again when a deep cross from Taylor almost deceived the keeper and dropped in at the far post. The keeper managed to get a hand to the ball and touch it onto the bar and out for a corner.
Penicuik stormed into a two goal lead within ten minutes of the second half. The first came when a cross from the right was headed back across goal and slammed into the net with Whitburn's defence all at sea. The second goal again found Whitburn failing to pick up their opponents when a free kick from the right was headed home with no real challenge from a Whitburn player.
Midway through the half, Penicuik made it 3-0, although this time their was a strong claim for offside by Whitburn. The referee allowed the player to run on though, and he played the ball inside for a team mate to score.
Whitburn pulled a goal back with ten minutes left. Colin Strickland played the ball across the goal for Paul Taylor to beat the home keeper with a well placed header.
Unfortunately for Whitburn that was their last clear chance and Penicuik deservedly took all three points.
This week the Man of the Match goes to Paul Taylor, who's goal was about the only highlight from Whitburn's point of view
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Haddow, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(Kenny), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Taylor. Subs not used - Beveridge, McGhee, Leiper, McAllister, Trialist
Man of the Match - Paul Taylor
18-9-04
League Cup section match
Musselburgh 1 Whitburn 0
Half time: Musselburgh 0 Whitburn 0
Whitburn had a couple of efforts on goal in the opening five minutes, both by Mark Sinclair. The first came after a good run from just inside the Musselburgh half that ended with a left foot shot that was saved easily by the keeper. A couple of minutes later and Sinclair hit a spectacular volley from the edge of the box that was on target, but blocked due to the number of players between him and goal. Thereafter, Musselburgh did most of the attacking and came close on several occasions to opening the scoring. The nearest they came was when a low shot from the edge of the box caught Walker going the wrong way, but he somehow managed to stop the shot with his foot.
Whitburn started the second half in determined mood, and it was they who did most of the attacking. Unfortunately, the finishing didn't match the build up play, with several shots being sent over the bar or past the post, most notably by Kenny Hannah and Mark Sinclair. They couldn't be faulted for trying though, and on another day at least one of the efforts would probably have counted.
Against the run of play in the second half, Musselburgh scored in the 70th minute. A long clearance was misjudged by the Whitburn defence, allowing former Whitburn player Davie McGlynn to run through and lob the stranded Walker.
A couple of minutes later it was almost 2-0 when a shot from the penalty spot was blocked by Lloyd Haddow. Whitburn were under pressure at this point, and five minutes later were again lucky to remain only one goal down. A cross from the left flew across the face of goal and left by Scott Macdonald at the back post as the ball looked to be heading out for a goal kick. A Musselburgh player came in from the right though, and rattled the post with a powerful shot.
Whitburn regained their composure after that and went in search of the equaliser. Sinclair had another terrific volley from the edge of the box that went just wide.
Lloyd Haddow was sent off with 10 minutes left, when he tripped a Musselburgh player at the edge of the box, and was clearly the last man.
In the final minute, Paul Taylor sent in a deep cross from the left that deceived the keeper and came back off the crossbar before being cleared.
That was Whitburn's last chance as they suffered their first defeat of the season.
The Man of the Match award this week goes to Mark Sinclair, who had several good efforts on goal, and put in a good display on the right of the field.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Haddow, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(McGhee), Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland, Leiper(Taylor). Subs not used - Beveridge, Carswell, Trialist
Man of the Match - Mark Sinclair
11-9-04
League Cup section match
Whitburn 2 Sauchie 0, Scorers - Flanagan, Strickland
Half time: Whitburn 0 Sauchie 0
With a strong wind at their backs, Sauchie dominated the first half, but despite all their possession, they created few clear chances. They came closest to scoring when a cross from the left was just out of reach of an incoming forward who could only redirect the ball past the post.;
Whitburn took advantage of the wind in the second half and should have scored within 5 minutes. Alan Flanagan intercepted a short back pass but hit his shot on the turn over the bar.
The opening goal came in the 60th minute when Alan Flanagan headed a corner from Hannah, which was saved by the keeper, but Flanagan was alert to prod the rebound into the net. The second goal came in the 75th minute when Flanagan beat his man on the left before turning the ball inside to give Colin Strickland an easy opportunity which he converted.
Iain Ramage should have hit the target 5 minutes later, but shot wildly over after the ball had dropped kindly for him at the edge of the box.
In the final minute, Whitburn created another opportunity with 3 players through on goal, but the chance ended with McGhee firing across goal from a tight angle, and out for a goal kick.
The Man of the Match award this week goes to Alan Flanagan. He scored the opening goal, set up the second, and worked hard throughout.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Haddow, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, Hannah, Flanagan, Strickland(McGhee), Leiper. Subs not used - Beveridge, Carswell
Man of the Match - Alan Flanagan
4-9-04
League Cup section match
Whitburn 6 Livingston 2, Scorers - Ramage(2), Campbell, Rixon, Flanagan, Strickland
Half time: Whitburn 1 Livingston 0
Whitburn's new signing from Raith Rovers. Colin Leiper, took up the left back position.
Whitburn created several goal scoring opportunities during the first half, and were unlucky not to go in at half time with more than a 1-0 lead.
It was Livingston who had the first chance though, Walker being forced to save.
Colin Leiper got forward to send the ball behind the defence for Flanagan, but the keeper saved.
Iain Ramage had a strong run from his own half after 25 minutes which ended with a powerful 25 yard drive being saved by the Livingston keeper. A couple of minutes later, the same player powered a header from a corner kick off the inside of the post, only to see the ball bounce along the line and be scrambled clear. Not to be denied, Iain Ramage put Whitburn ahead in the 35th minute when he fired home on the turn, from 12 yards out.
Colin Campbell could have scored when he was clear on the right of goal, but he failed to control his shot which flew wide.
Livingston weren't out of the game, and Walker had to be alert on a couple of occasions to deal with long range efforts.
Livingston started the second half looking for an equaliser, and didn't have to wait long. It came in the 52nd minute when the ball was turned into the net after Whitburn failed to deal with a low cross from the left.
The equaliser appeared to rouse Whitburn who had started the second half sluggishly, and they went ahead again within 2 minutes. Colin Campbell had a shot blocked, but the ball fell kindly for him to drive a left foot volley into the net.
Whitburn kept pushing, and extended their lead in the 57th minute. Stevie Rixon drove forward from his centre back position, played the ball wide and continued his run to turn the return pass into the net.
Alan Flanagan was next to get on the scoresheet when he headed home in the 61st minute, following a corner kick.
The next goal came in the77th minute when Iain Ramage headed home at the back post for his second goal of the game.
Livingston didn't give up and were rewarded with a goal in the 85th minute. Sloppy play caused Whitburn to lose possession on the left, and they were punished when the ball was crossed into the box and fired home.
Whitburn regained their 4 goal lead in the 87th minute when Colin Strickland headed in a cross from Campbell on the right.
Whitburn were awarded a penalty in the final minute when Sinclair was brought down in the area. Kenny Hannah took the kick, but the keeper made a good save. diving low to his right hand post.
The Man of the Match this week goes to Iain Ramage for a strong display in the middle of the park, rounded off by scoring two goals, to show he is back to the form brought that him the Player of the Year award last season.
Whitburn team : Walker, Carswell, Leiper, Cunningham, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, Hannah, Strickland, Flanagan(McGhee), Campbell. Subs not used - Beveridge, Taylor
Man of the Match - Iain Ramage
21-8-04
League Cup section match
Sauchie 2 Whitburn 2, Scorers - Rixon, Campbell
Half time: Sauchie 0 Whitburn 0
This was an evenly contested game in which a draw was a fair result. Both teams pushed forward whenever possible, making it an entertaining match, but despite this there was no score at half time. Both teams had chances during the first half. Whitburn's Haddow had a spectacular volley from the edge of the box that was blocked. Then Strickland had an effort from a free kick that was comfortably saved by the goalkeeper.
Sauchie also had chances and Stewart Walker was called into action several times during the half to keep his goal intact.
Iain Ramage went on a good run from his own half just after the restart, however his final shot was disappointing.
Sauchie took the lead midway through the second half from a free kick on the edge of the box. Irvine curled the ball over the defensive wall, and although Walker managed to get a hand to the ball, he was unable to keep it out.
With ten minutes remaining, a Sauchie defender was sent of for his second booking of the match, leaving the home team a man short. However, it was they who scored next, just a minute after the sending off. Whitburn lost the ball on the left, and when a cross was sent over, it was headed under the diving Walker by Sauchie's number 7..
To their credit, Whitburn didn't give up and pulled a goal back with 5 minutes remaining. Stevie Rixon went forward and got on the end of a cross from the left. His header at the back post was blocked, but the ball broke back to him and he wasted no time in firing it into the net. In the final minute Whitburn almost equalised when Colin Campbell saw his diving header touched on to the post and out for a corner. He wasn't to be denied however, and from the corner kick he was alert to pounce on a loose ball and power it into the net for the equaliser.
The Man of the Match award this week goes to Paul Taylor. With Lloyd Haddow filling the left back position, Oscar was pushed forward into the left midfield slot and was always available to link the play between defence and attack, supplying numerous quality balls into the box.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Haddow(McGhee), Macdonald(Carswell), Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair(Kenny), Hannah, Campbell, Strickland, Taylor Subs not used - Beveridge
Man of the Match - Paul Taylor
14-8-04
League Cup section match
Whitburn 3 Penicuik 2, Scorers - Strickland(2), Kenny
Half time: Whitburn 1 Penicuik 1
Whitburn started the new season with a victory, but had to work right to the end against an impressive Penicuik team.
It was Penicuik who created most of the chances during the first half and deservedly took the lead when Young rounded Walker after 15 minutes, following a mix up in the Whitburn defence.
Whitburn rarely showed the fluency they are capable of, but that's understandable given that it's the first competitive game.
They couldn't be faulted for effort though, and were rewarded with an equaliser just before half time. A free kick was awarded for a foul on Rixon just outside the box, and Colin Strickland drilled the ball low around the defensive wall and into the corner of the net for his first goal for Whitburn.
A minute later Colin Campbell came close to putting Whitburn ahead, but he just failed to connect with a low drive from Sinclair at the back post with the keeper stranded.
Carswell replaced Hannah in midfield at half time.
The second half was just a couple of minutes old when Whitburn had a strong penalty claim turned down after Campbell went down in the area.
Penicuik were still making most of the play and regained the lead after 55 minutes when Blair found space in the box and directed the ball home following a cross from the right.
Strickland came close to scoring for Whitburn, but was unlucky to see two well hit shots in quick succession blocked by Penicuik defenders in a crowded goalmouth.
Whitburn were still struggling to create much in front of goal, unlike Penicuik who were putting the Whitburn defence under pressure. Only some good goalkeeping by Walker and lack of composure in front of goal prevented Penicuik from extending their lead.
However, the game turned in Whitburn's favour with the introduction of Alan Flanagan after 65 minutes.
In the 75th minute, Flanagan came in from the left and cut the ball back for Colin Strickland to coolly stroke the ball home from ten yards out.
The game hadn't totally turned though, and Walker was called into action again to keep Penicuik out.
With 5 minutes remaining another Whitburn substitute, Stewart Kenny got on the end of a great cross from the right by Flanagan to put the ball into the net for the winner.
Penicuik must be wondering how they emerged from this game with nothing to show for their efforts, and they certainly deserved at least a draw. However, Whitburn showed plenty of determination, if not great football, and unlike Penicuik, took the chances that came their way.
It's always better to win when not playing well than play good football and lose.
The first Man of the Match award of the season goes to Colin Strickland who worked well up front and showed his ability with two well taken goals. He was run close for the award by Stewart Walker in goal, who can be thanked for keeping Penicuik out when the pressure was on.
Whitburn team : Walker, Cunningham, Wilson, Macdonald, Rixon, Ramage, Sinclair, Hannah(Carswell), Campbell(Flanagan), Strickland, Taylor(Kenny) Subs not used - Beveridge, McGhee
Man of the Match - Colin Strickland