Gala FR find season’s best to scare Braves

Gala Fairydean Rovers produced arguably their best performance of the season to defeat Caledonian Braves at the Netherdale 3G Arena on Saturday.

Two first half goals from Zander Murray put the Braw Lads in the driving seat – and the striker missed out on a hat-trick after seeing his penalty kick cannon back off the crossbar.

Niall Kelly ensured the points were in the bag with a third goal 11 minutes from time, although the visitors responded with a Ross McNeil goal 60 seconds later and were always a constant threat.

Indeed, the Lanarkshire outfit were first to show and Gala FR goalkeeper Fraser Morton had to look lively with a fine double save from two piledrivers.

Murray set up two glorious chances for fellow forward Marc Berry but they were not converted.

However, it was Murray who broke the deadlock with a fine solo effort, finished with a shot into the bottom corner of the net in the 27th minute.

Six minutes later, Murray pounced on hesitancy in the Braves defence to make it 2-0.

Hibs loanee Yrick Gallantes was the architect of the third goal in the 79th minute with a solo run down the right flank.

His low cross picked out Murray, who struck the post from close range but Kelly, following up, blasted the ball into the net.

This Saturday, title-chasing Kelty Hearts are the visitors to the Netherdale 3G Arena, with kick-off at 3pm.

Premier Club cards apply for this match, while children under 16 are free if accompanied by an adult.