Late goal seals success for ’Vale

A PULSATING, if not classic, derby fixture between Deveronvale and Buckie Thistle saw the Banffers win 2-1 at Princess Royal Park.

Saturday’s match had two sending-offs, controversial refereeing decisions, stunning saves, missed chances and a late winner courtesy of Chris Blackhall who sealed the points with a close-range header a minute from time to send the Valley Crew home the happier of the two large supports.

With Kris Duncan opening the scoring after just five minutes, followed by Zander Sutherland’s dismissal after 19, it looked like it was the Vale’s match to throw away, but a Donnie Munro equaliser followed by a red card for home skipper Scott Fraser saw the match back in the balance before Blackhall netted his winner.

Daniel Bell made his debut for the Banffers in goal after signing a short-term contract from Inverurie Locos due to the unavailability of ’Vale’s three signed keepers, while John Urquhart deputised for the injured Scott Henry in the centre of defence alongside Fraser.

A bright start from the Banff side saw them go close twice in the opening minutes, Fraser having an effort blocked inside the Jags’ box following a set-piece before Ivan Sinclair saw his firm header turned around the post by Buckie keeper Kevin Main.

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