Last Minute Misery for Loons

Forfar Athletic 1 Airdrie United 2

Airdrie completed their 4th victory of the season against the Loons at Station Park last night, and into the bargain are now in touching distance of the last play off position that has been occupied by Forfar for so long.

Following Saturday’s defeat at New Broomfield, Forfar made two changes, with starts for Bryan Deasley and Jamie Bishop at the expense of Barry Sellars and Ryan Dow who both dropped to the bench. The home side created the first chance of the match when Deasley beat two defenders before setting up Ross Campbell to fire straight at Ridgers.

The visitors grabbed the lead though after 4 minutes, a simple move down the right saw the ball fall to Ryan Donnelly who ghosted between the Forfar defence to score the opener.

The Loons then went on the attack in a bid to grab the equaliser. After 19 minutes a long Gallacher goal kick found its way to Paul McQuade, and with his back to goal he controlled the ball before turning and hitting a half volley into the arms of Ridgers. Then a well floated Iain Campbell free kick was deflected past Ridgers and his far post by a nervous defender. From the resultant corner McQuade connected but could only direct his header at the visiting keeper.

With time running out in the first half the Loons grabbed the leveller. From a free kick, Bolochoweckyj headed goalwards only to see his effort blocked on the line; however McQuade was on hand to fire the ball over the line.

Early in the second half a great Dale Hilson pass found Ross Campbell, who judged his run to perfection, as Ridgers came out Campbell pushed his effort just wide of the target. After 60 minutes a Hilson pass found Ross Campbell free on the left side of the penalty, he lifted the ball into the middle of the area and just before McQuade could connect the ball was cleared.

Airdrie then responded with two shots on target in the space on a minute. They then upped the tempo, and Gallacher did well to get down to hold an Owens free kick.

In the final ten minutes both sides were determined to grab the winner and both were attacking at every opportunity. A simple pass split the Forfar defence wide open and Donnelly went one on one with Gallacher, who won the battle thanks to a great save. Deep into injury time and the Diamonds grabbed the winner. Owens found space to pass to Morton who was unmarked and able to pick his spot from close range.

This disappointing home defeat still leaves Forfar in a good position, however they need to start picking up points and lets hope that starts on Saturday when the Loons entertain Stenhousemuir.

Match Report by Kevin Brown