Buckie Thistle 2 Forres Mechanics 0: Jags beat battling Can-Cans
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A GOAL in either half was enough for Buckie Thistle as they saw off Forres Mechanics at Victoria Park on Saturday.
After a strong opening 20 from the visitors, Jack Murray’s diving header from a deep free-kick put Buckie ahead with 26 minutes played.
Referee Billy Baxter had a decision to make when Lewis MacKinnon pulled back forward Ben Barron before half-time – opting to give the centre-back a yellow card when Forres wanted red.
The Jags came out flying in the second half and had chances to go 2-0 up through Josh Peters and Marcus Goodall within five minutes of the restart.
The hosts doubled their lead just a few minutes later, though, after Max Barry’s brilliant touch and finish at the back post.
Andy MacAskill should have made it 3-0 on the hour but was denied one on one by Can-Cans keeper Stuart Knight.
Buckie manager Graeme Stewart was pleased with the result, although admitted the game plan wasn’t followed to a T.
“We wanted to play in their half and four or five times they stole it in our half,” he said.
“I said to them we have to go long to create the spaces. We want to play great football, and the fans want to see great football, but some games you have to dig in, roll up your sleeves, and let the quality show.
“First 20 minutes they were excellent and we didn’t stick to the game plan but we changed and after that we controlled the game.
“But I was impressed with Forres. They are a good team and they’ll take points off some of the top teams.”
