I don’t know if you caught the press conference for Southend United Manager Kieron Dyer last week? What am I saying. Of course you did. But if you just so happened to miss it, he was challenged by his players to reference as many Michael Jackson songs as possible, with each one raising money for charity. So, in a similar vein, and to coincide with the arrival of this year’s Clach x Mikeysline, 2 Tone collaboration tee shirt, I thought I would do something similar, by inserting songs from the legendary ska label. I don’t want to put you under too much pressure, but if you can name all ten, you can grab your hands on one of these tee shirts completely free of charge. Do nothing, and you’ll have to pay the full price of £17.50. But, it’s up to you. Five pound from each shirt sold will go towards Mikeysline regardless.
The Jungle Music that I hear blaring out of the changing room each home game makes me wince when compared to the ska tunes that I hear on my radio, but hey ho.
Over the tannoy, it was the usual blend of Oasis and Stone Roses. Why they never ask me for a playlist is anybody’s guess, but sometimes I miss the days when the players chose their favourite tunes. I haven’t heard Status Quo in so long. And it was good to see yet another decent crowd assembled at the Ferry San Siro. Both sides were appropriately wearing white and black that symbolises the checked pattern on the famous 2 Tone record label. The weather was kind, with a welcome blast of sunshine in-between a largely cloudy sky. Our visitors today, Formartine United, have started the season brightly, so we knew that we were in for a tough game. So, when Mikey Mackenzie came agonisingly close in the first few moments, it was almost a case of him nearly being a three minute hero.
But Mikey is increasingly too hot to handle, and wasn’t going to be denied for too long. And on the 10 minute mark, he was put through by Troy Cooper, and cooly despatched his shot past the helpless Stuart Mackenzie (why do I know that name ?). We were looking decent, if not overly impressive, and definitely looked most likely to score again. Craig Lawrie shot narrowly wide on 23 minutes, and moments later, an overhead kick by Troy Cooper might have netted a greater reward. However, we were aware of our visitors threat in front of goal and a rare slip from Ben Cormack, almost let in Julian Wade on the half hour. Almost immediately, though, Ben popped up in the opposite box, but he was unable to direct his header into a dangerous area. Troy and Jordan Macrae linked up shortly after, but again were unable to capitalise.
While todays MOTM was awarded to the consistently impressive Michael Finnis, had it not been for the heroics of Mark Ridgers, we might have gone into the break level. A great double save was followed by a superb instinct save. He could be the next James Bond.
So it was that we went in with a one goal advantage, but the general feeling amongst the Lily Loyal was that this contest was too close to call.
The second half started fairly scrappily, with both sides appearing a bit flat. Our first real opportunity came 20 minutes into the half when Craig Lawrie had a half chance from range, and ten minutes later both Mikey and Craig, again, had chances only seconds apart.
So, it was almost with an air of relief that we were awarded a penalty shortly afterwards. It was unclear as to exactly what happened, but there weren’t a huge amount of appeals from either side.
Jordan Macrae stepped up, but saw his well struck shot, equally well saved. As is so often the way, and only moments later, the ball was down our end and nestling in the back of the net. Mark, who had been unbeatable until that moment, couldn’t disguise his frustration, kicking out at the post. It was a symbol of his pain. Conversely, it is always a pleasure to see players coming back from injury, so to see Andy Macrae returning to action was especially welcome. And he quickly reminded us of what he brings, with his scurrying energy and industry. Cutting in from the left, with the clock running down, he sadly dragged a shot wide, but you can excuse a bit of rustiness. So when substitute Ross Logan missed in front of goal, when it was easier to score, you kind of felt that it was going to be a frustrating day and one when you ask “why can’t we get a break”.. But it might have been even worse were it not for another great save from Mark with virtually the last kick of the game. It was madness really.
On balance, a draw was probably a fair result. A cocktail of missed chances and exceptional goalkeeping.
So, there is lots to reflect upon, with little time to do so, as we head east twice in the next seven days. The boys face Inverurie on Wednesday evening and Deveronvale away next Saturday in two tough fixtures.
Games are coming thick and fast, and your ongoing support is really appreciated.
