Ten-man students fail the test at Gala FR

Gala Fairydean Rovers 2, Stirling University 1
Gala FR, in red, try to break down a Stirling Uni move (picture by Brian Sutherland).Gala FR, in red, try to break down a Stirling Uni move (picture by Brian Sutherland).
Gala FR, in red, try to break down a Stirling Uni move (picture by Brian Sutherland).

Two goals within the opening 15 minutes were enough to secure Gala Fairydean Rovers another vital three Lowland League points at the Netherdale 3G Arena.

Stirling University impressed throughout with their slick passing game – but it was Gala who had the cutting edge to take the spoils.

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Despite a strong start by the visitors, Gala FR took the lead in nine minutes, when striker Zander Murray produced a fine finish from eight yards.

Murray turned provider in the 14th minute when he held the ball up in the box before picking out Marc Berry, who netted from close range.

Despite the driving rain, both teams served up an entertaining forst half with chances at both ends.

Niall Kelly blasted over the bar after the Stirling ‘keeper had fumbled a shot, and Murray struck the post as Gala looked to get the killer third goal.

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But Stirling also had opportunities and almost pulled one back when Callum Heath headed over.

They had another glorious opportunity on the hour mark when a free kick fired into the box struck Gala captain Danny Galbraith on the arm.

But Gala ‘keeper Fraser Morton produced a great save from Kieran Hall’s penalty kick.

There was more drama when Stirling ‘keeper Kevin Walker was shown a straight red card for bringing down Ross Aitchison as he burst through on goal.

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From the resultant 25-yard free kick, Levi Kinchant saw his effort sail into the arms of replacement ‘keeper Matthew Burrows.

Murray went close on another two occasions as Gala finished the game strongly.

For the closing stages, Stirling introduced Andrew Callow, who came through the Gala Fairydean Rovers youth system.

Gala Fairydean Rovers: Morton, Kinchant, Herdman, Grant, Chingwalu, Kelly, Murray, Aitchison, Galbraith, Berry, Campbell. Subs – Payer, Patterson, Leddie, McRitchie.