Deveronvale player manager Garry Wood lasted 90 minutes in various positions as Banff side tested SPFL Elgin City in Scottish Gas Scottish Cup second round
Playing in his third decade of senior football, Garry Wood still has plenty to offer at the age of 37.
The Deveronvale player-manager lasted a full 90 minutes of Saturday’s Scottish Gas Scottish Cup second round clash at Elgin City, the club where he made his SPFL debut aged 16.
Wood featured across Vale’s midfield before switching to his preferred attacking role when the Highland League side chased an equalising goal at Borough Briggs.
Sub Cammy Angus duly netted with his first touch to level on 85 minutes, before Ryan Sargent broke Vale hearts by scoring Elgin’s 90th minute winner.
Watch the highlights on the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup youTube channel below.
Wood said in his post-match interview - see full interview above - that his team gave their all and went for victory in the closing minutes against their ten-man hosts.
He said he played himself from the start to use his experience and cover for absent players, and didn’t expect to still be on the pitch at the very end.
“That wasn't the plan from last night (to play 90 minutes), but we were maybe low on bodies,” he said.
“I played a number of positions today, but the guys, every single one of them gave me everything. I'm just disappointed we never managed to see it through.”
Elgin had the bulk of scoring opportunities but Deveronvale sensed an opportunity after the home side had Ally Spalding red carded on the hour, and when the scores were tied with five minutes to go, a shock was on the cards.
“I think we were knocking on the door,” Wood said. “With them going down to ten men as well, maybe it gives us a bit more impetus to go and try and win the game.
“When we get the equaliser, do we stick or twist? I think we went for it.
“The goals, we can look back, they're sloppy. But I can't fault the guys effort, they gave absolutely everything. We're just unlucky.”