BO’NESS UNITED MATCH SUMMARY SEASON 2024/2025

Date – Saturday 02 November 2024

Competition – Park’s Motor Group Lowland League

Bo’ness United 1
(Stevenson 72)

Caledonian Braves 2
(McDowall 13, G Stewart 85)

Bo’ness United were edged out in this tight Lowland League match against current leaders Caledonian Braves, whose late goal denied the BUs a share of the points. The Braves struck early, Jack McDowell heading in a Daniel Martins cross but unphased Bo’ness set about getting back with Lewis Duffy and Keir Macaulay both going close. The BUs enjoyed the majority of the possession but were faced with a strong defence making it difficult to carve out too many chances on the Caley goal.

After the break Bo’ness continued their search for an equaliser but again struggled to breach the Caledonian Braves rearguard. With just under twenty minutes remaining though Bo’ness finally made the breakthrough, Braves keeper Bernard White only able to parry a Lois Kennedy header, the ball falling nicely for Ryan Stevenson who smashed a shot into the back of the net. Continually pushing forward Bo’ness were susceptible to the counter attack and almost right away the Braves squandered a chance to regain their lead, Ross McNeil shooting over from close in. Minutes later BU keeper Cade Melrose made a great save to deny Cameron Breadner but Bo’ness were determined to find a winner. Unfortunately though, it was the visitors who scored a second goal through Greig Stewart pouncing to shoot home from just inside the box. Undaunted Bo’ness kept going and into time added on had a valid penalty claim turned down as Smart Osadolor appeared to be hauled down in the box. Many thought the BUs deserved more for their efforts and although this may have been the case it’s the final scoreline that provides the only statistic that counts on the day.

Prior to the match Lex Shields’ family members were present and joined players, supporters and former players as they paid their respects to the BU legend with a minute’s applause. A fitting tribute for a player who will live long in the memory of everyone associated with Bo’ness United.

Bo'ness: Melrose, Hawkins, Macaulay, Duffy, Travis, Irving, Stevenson, Johnston, Osadolor, Grant (Mitchell 76), Kennedy. Subs (Not Used): Henderson, Gemmell, Masson, Murdoch.