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SPARTANS RECENT RESULTS 1999-2000
Click here for Second Team results. Click here for Third Team results
SPARTANS RESULTS
Mon 22 May 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Tollcross 2 Spartans 5
Scorers: Campbell, Hughes, Hobbins, Burns (2)
Sat 20 May 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Spartans 3 Edinburgh City 1
Scorers: Hughes, Rae, Burns
?? May 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Craigroyston 0 Spartans 4
Scorers: Hughes, Middlemist (3)
Sat 6 May 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Peebles Rovers 0 Spartans 4
Scorers: Hobbins, Hughes, Middlemist, Rae (pen)
Sat 29 April 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Whitehill Welfare 3 Spartans 1
Scorers: Rae (pen)
Sat 22 April 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Lothian Thistle 2 Spartans 2
Scorers: Hobbins, Rae
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Ettles, Burns, Perry, Middlemist. Subs: McDonald, Lewis, Graham, Gilfillian
Report (by Mark Burns):
After the midweek success against Coldstream Spartans started the match in confident mood however found themselves 1 down inside five minutes. A corner
was attacked by three Spartans players but the ball somehow found its way into the net past Swinburne who was rooted to his line. Spartans then spurned an
excellent chance when Hobbins was one on one with the keeper but drove the ball wide against his former team. With Spartans pressing it was Lothian who
increased their lead. A punt upfield found Pele in a suspiciously offside position. The Lothian forward kept his cool and slotted the ball home with ease.
Spartans refused to lie down and pulled a goal back before halftime when Hobbins rose superbly at the back post and powered a header into the corner of the net.
Spartans started the second half the better and eventually got their reward when Middlemist was brought crashing to the ground in the box following a neat one two. Rae stepped forward and levelled the scores from the resultant penalty. The final twenty minutes were scrappy and in the end neither team particularly deserved to win the game.
Tue 17 April 2000: League
Spartans 6 Coldstream 0
Scorer: Hobbins, Rae, Hughes 3, Middlemist
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Ettles, Burns, Perry, Middlemist. Subs: McDonald, Gilfillian, Paterson, Williams
Report (by Mark Burns):
In Spartans best performance of the season a strong Coldstream side were destroyed in a fantastic first half demolition. Spartans opened the scoring when Hobbins
rose superbly at the back post to meet a Hughes cross. Further first half goals came from Hughes 2 (one a move involving almost every Spartans player) Rae,
a thirty five yard rocket, and Middlemist. The second half was dull in comparison, the only goal coming from Hughes who completed his hat trick with a thumping
strike into the roof of the net.
Sat 15 April 2000: League
Spartans 6 Easthouses 1
Scorer: Middlemist 2, Hobbins, Rae (pen), Burns, Ford
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Ettles, Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Burns, Hughes, Middlemist, Perry. Subs: Williams, Paterson, Brown.
Report (by Mark Burns):
This was a classic game of 2 halves at City Park, the home of football. The first half was a fairly even contest with Spartans enjoying the majority of the possession
but Easthouses looking the more likely to score on the break. The only goal of the half was for Easthouses and came from the penalty spot following a disgraceful
decision by the ref who penalised Mark Thomson for a hand ball which was clearly unintentional and for which none of the Easthouses players even claimed.
The second half was dominated completely by Spartans with Ross Middlemist at the heart of everything giving one of the individual displays seen this season at City Park. The equalizer came when Ross chipped the Easthouses defence and Hobbins volleyed in from 15 yards. Middemist was then tripped in the box and Rae blasted the resultant penalty past a stranded keeper. A powerful header from Middlemist was then stopped on the line before being swept high into the net by Burns. Middlemist himself then scored two crackers - the first a glancing header into the corner of the net and the next a superb half volley following a great knock down from Hughes. The final goal of the game came from a mazy run by Middlemist that was ended by a dispairing challenge only for the ball to break to the on-rushing Ford who slotted the ball into the net from 12 yards out.
Sat 8 April 2000: League
Spartans 5 Tollcross 1
Scorer: Hobbins,Middlemist,Burns,OG, Hughes
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Ettles, E Brown, P Hobbins, Knox, Burns, Hughes, Williams, Perry. Subs: Wilson, Middlemist, McPhail,Lynch.
Report (by Mark Burns):
Spartans excellent home record continued with a comfortable 5 - 1 win over Tollcross at City Park - aka the home of silky soccer. In a poor first half Spartans
had the better chances and Hobbins, after missing a couple of easy chances swung over a cross which Mark Thomson volleyed towards the goal. Hughes
in his new goal scoring role, was well positioned on the line to turn the ball past the Tollcross keeper. In true Spartans spirit within 3 minutes of taking the lead
Tollcross equalised. Spartans lost the ball just outside their own box and when the shot came in it was deflected off Mark Thomson and beyond Swinburne.
After the usual half time ‘discussion’ Spartans came out more determined in the second half. Middlemist, a half time sub, started to run the Tollcross defence
ragged and was instrumental in setting up Hobbins and Burns for goals 2 and 3. Hobbins then rounded the keeper and his shot was stopped on the line before
being knocked into their own net in bizarre fashion by the Tollcross defence when trying to clear the ball. Middlemist then capped a fine second half display by
knocking in the final fifth goal.
The only other feature of note was the return of the ‘come back kid’ Mr Neil Knox for his fourth come back of the season and tenth of his Spartans career.
Sat 25 March 2000: League
Spartans 2 Civil Service Strollers 1
Scorer: Hughes (2)
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Ettles, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Burns, Hughes, Williams, Perry.
Subs: Grant, Middlemist, Bruno, McCall, Gray.
Report (by Mark Burns):
It was a match that Spartans had to win to maintain their outside hope of the league title against CCS who were top of the league before the match. Spartans
started off the better with several half chances going begging before Rae got his usual booking after 20 minutes for a boot on a Strollers player. With only five
minutes of the half remaining Perry robbed the Strollers defence and squared the ball to the onrushing Hughes. Hughes steadied himself before cracking a fine
twenty yard drive that bounced ten times before finding the corner of the net.
The second half started as the first had finished with Spartans enjoying much of the play. With 20 minutes remaining Spartans got their deserved second with
a move involving Burns and Middlemist who then chipped the ball into the path of Hughes who blasted his second into the roof of the net. Spartans then had
several chances to finish the game with Perry and Hughes the worst culprits. In typical Spartans fashion CCS were allowed back into the game with 5 minutes
to go when a speculative cross dropped between two defenders and was knocked into the net. This resulted in a frantic last 5 minutes in which Spartans
managed to hang on for another vital 3 points.
Sat 18 March 2000: Kings Cup R2 replay
Edinburgh City 3 Spartans 2
Scorer: Thomson, Burns
Team: Swinburne, Ettles, Rae, Burns, Thomson, McKeating, McPhail, Ford, Hobbins, Middlemist, Hughes. Subs: Brown,
Lynch, Paterson.
Sat 11 March 2000: Kings Cup R2
Spartans 1 Edinburgh City 1
Scorer: McKeating
Sat 4 March 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Annan Athletic 1 Spartans 1
Scorer: Burns
Sat 26 February 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Spartans 1 Whitehill 1
Scorer: Rae (pen)
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Burns, Govan, Perry, Brown
Subs: Wilson, Ettles, Middlemist, Gilfillian.
Report (by Mark Burns):
Spartans dominated this top of the table clash however had to settle with a point against Whitehill. Whitehill started the brighter however despite
all their possession they created no clear cut chances. After 20 minutes, Spartans came into the match and had numerous chances before half
time, the best of which fell to Burns from only 5 yards out but he disappointingly blazed over.
Spartans dominated the early part of the second half, however it was Whitehill who took the lead. A long clearance from the Whitehill keeper was only partially cleared and the ball fell to the on rushing Samuels who knocked the ball in from 15 yards.
Spartans then struggled to get back into the game and Whitehill had another shot that was cleared off the line by Ford following a corner kick. The turning point of the second half came when ex-Whitehill player Ross Middlemist came on with 20 minutes to go. After a couple of mazey runs and after being booted several times Ross was felled in the box and Jimmy Rae, starting his first game for over a month, slotted home the penalty.
The remaining 20 minutes were all Spartans with Hobbins and Hughes both going close but the game ended level.
Sat 19 february 2000: King Cup, First Round
Spartans 3 Pencaitland and Ormiston 2
Scorer: Hobbins 2, Thomson.
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, McDonald, P Hobbins, Ford,
Burns, Govan, Perry, Brown. Subs: Wilson, Ettles, Middlemist, Gilfillian
Report (by Mark Burns):
Spartans dominated the first hour of this game by which time they were three nil up. In the first half
Hobbins scored from an acute angle and Mark Thomson a header from a Ford corner. Within five minutes of
the second half a great cross field ball from Thomson was squared across the six yard box by Hughes and Hobbins
slid in for his second.
Further chances followed but against the run of play Pencaitland pulled a goal back with ten minutes to go. Rather than playing as they had for the previous 70 minutes Spartans then started giving the ball away at every opportunity against a very poor Pencaitland side and were made to pay when another goal was gifted away setting up a frantic finish.
Spartans ended up hanging on against a team a league below them to qualify for the next round.
Sat 5 february 2000: Image Printers Cup. Q-F.
Spartans 1 Edinburgh City 2
Scorer: Govan
Sat 22 January 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Spartans 2 Vale of Leithen 1
Scorers: Hobbins and Ford
Team: J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, McDonald, P Hobbins, Ford, Quinn, Burns, Middlemist, Govan.
Subs: Wilson, Campbell, Gauld, Craven
Report:
In a tough game Spartans recorded a good win to put them back on top of the league.
Vale with the wind behind them had the better of the first half and Swinburne made a fantastic reflex save with his feet to deny Vale the opener.
Spartans got the perfect start to the second half when a long throw in from Middlemist was left by everybody and Hobbins bundled the ball in from a yard out.
As usual, Spartans then sat back rather than build on the lead and Vale equalized within five minutes. Following a short corner the ball was driven across the box and ex Spartan Phil Johnson tapped the ball in.
Spartans winner came from a wonder strike by Craig Ford. Hobbins drove up the wing before squaring the ball to Fordy 30 yards out whose shot flew into the top corner.
Spartans were even allowed the luxury of bringing on veteran Colin Campbell for the last 15 minutes.
Sat 15th January 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Edinburgh City 4 Spartans 1
Scorer: Burns
Team: : J Swinburne, McKeating, Thomson, Hughes, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Knox, Burns,
Lewis, Middlemist, Govan
Subs: Ettles, McDonald, Quinn, Frazer
Report:
Following a run of recent good results Spartans were brought back down to earth with
a dreadful performance at Meadowbank. Edinburgh City dominated the game from the
start and were two nil ahead within fifteen minutes, the first a free-kick which Swinburne
in the Spartans goal spilled for an easy tap in, and the second a simple cross into the
box which was turned in from six yards out.
City could have added a third when ex-Spartan Graham McCann mysteriously had a goal disallowed.
Spartans should have pulled a goal back before half time when Govan rounded the keeper only for his shot to be stopped on the line, and then following another dubious decision Jimmy Rae missed a penalty, hitting the post.
Spartans started the second half more determined however conceded a third on a rare breakaway following a Spartans free-kick on the edge of the City box.
Spartans got back into the match with a tap in from Burns after good work by Middlemist however the revival was short lived when a dreadful tackle from Jimmy Rae resulted in the Spartan player being deservedly red carded.
With five minutes to go and Spartans down to ten players City scored a fourth to round off a miserable performance.
Sat 8th January 2000: East Seniors Premier Division
Spartans 5 Peebles Rovers 1
Scorers: Rae, Burns, Middlemist and Clive Lewis (2)
Team: : Swinburne, Ettles, Rae, Thomson, MacDonald, Hobbins, Knox, Burns, Ford,
C. Lewis, Middlemist subs: A. Gray (for Lewis), Millican (for Rae), McCall (for
Ettles), Graham
Report:
Spartans began the match at City Park with the elements and the slope behind them however it was
Peebles who settled quickest playing neat one touch football. In only seven minutes Peebles deservedly took
the lead after a corner was crossed to the edge of the box. The initial shot was blocked on the line but
the rebound was headed in to give Peebles a one goal lead.
After half an hour Spartans started to come back into the match and were awarded a penalty, despite some futile protests from the Peebles keeper, when Craig Ford was clearly upended in the box. Jimmy Rae crashed home the resultant spot kick into the top left hand corner.
The second half was a one sided contest with Spartans dominating from the off despite heading uphill into the sun and against a strong wind. Within ten minutes a quick one two with Phil Hobbins left Mark Burns clean through on the Peebles keeper. Cool as ice he drilled the ball past the keeper into the net. Clive Lewis then added a third, chasing (yes chasing) a long ball over the top. After rounding the keeper he knocked the ball into the empty net.
Five minutes later Ross Middlemist then sprinted clear of the Peebles defence after a great pass from Burns. With the 7 foot tall keeper off his line Ross chipped him from 30 yards to give Spartans a three goal lead.
The fifth and final Spartans goal came with 10 minutes to go. Man of the match Lewis swept in a Middlemist cross from a move that started in the Spartans box, rounding off a fine second half display.
Sat 13th December 1999: East Seniors Premier Division
Spartans 2 Lothian Thistle 1
Scorers: Hughes, Middlemist
Team: : J Swinburne, Hughes, Thomson, M Burns, McKeating, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Govan, Quinn,
Perry. Subs: Middlemist, Ettles, McDonald, McCole, Wilson
Report:
City Park was is surprisingly good condition at the start of the match between Spartans and Lothian Thistle.
Spartans started well and Hobbins and Govan both had shots well saved by the Lothian keeper.
Midway through the first half the breakthrough came and it was a typical cross field drive from Jimmy Rae
which found Ken Hughes rushing in at the back post who finished with a great header.
Spartans then sat back and allowed Lothian back into the game gifting them a number of chances to equalise.
It was Spartans however who added to their lead when Middlemist scored a cracking volley with his first
touch after Govan had hit the post. Again Spartans sat back, and with 3 minutes to go they paid the price
when Roger McKeating glanced a header into his own goal, Spartans however hung on for the last few minutes for another vital 3 points.
Sat 27th November 1999: East Seniors Premier Division
Coldstream 1 Spartans 3
Scorers: Quinn, M Burns and P Hobbins
Team: J Swinburne, Hughes, McColl, M Burns, McKeating, J Rae, P Hobbins, Ford, Govan, Quinn, Perry.
Subs: Middlemist, Campbell, Lynch.
Report:
After a goalless first half in which Spartans dominated, it was Coldstream who
took the lead just after the break. A nothing ball over the top found Coldstreams
top goal scorer, Short, who fired in a shot from the edge of the box.
Spartans equalized within 5 minutes after a thundering free kick from Jimmy Rae was spilled by the keeper and Brian Quinn tapped in the rebound. Coldstream were further penalised when after a brutal elbow in the face of Burns resulted in a red card for the Coldstream player. Spartans themselves were then dealt a blow when Craig Ford suffered a head knock and was taken off to hospital to be replaced by Sam Lynch who was to fill the holding midfield role using his pace and athleticism to the max. This substitution was to prove inspirational as Spartans went on to score two more goals - a pile driver from Burns following great work from Quinn and Hobbins and then a delightful chip from Hobbins from the edge of the box to wrap up the vital 3 points.
Thurs 25 May 2000: League
BP 2 Spartans 3
Scorers: Williams (3) - yes a hat trick for Alun !
Mon 22 May 2000: East of Scotland Cup Final, Tynecastle
Spartans 0 Manfort 2
Sat 13 May 2000: League
Renfrew YM 1 Spartans 4
Scorers: A Gray, Paterson (2), Williams.
Wed 10 May 2000: League
Aberforth Rangers 2 Spartans 2
Scorers: A Gray, Williams.
Sat 6 May 2000: League
Spartans 1 Westhill 2
Scorers: A.Gray
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Morton, Henderson, Hutton, Gauld, S Gray, A Gray, Struthers (sub J Calder), Paterson (sub Williams). Subs not used: Laing,
Lumsden.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans followed their cup win with another poor performance. Poor marking at the back following a through ball let the Westhill striker through to score after 15 minutes. Spartans dominated the rest of the half but without looking dangerous until just before half time when their 'keeper dropped the ball and Andy Gray knocked home. Spartans dominated the possession in the second half but did not look dangerous. With 20 minutes to go Westhill scored the winner when another through ball was not dealt with and was knocked home. Westhill had two players sent off in the closing minutes but still Spartans couldn't score.
Mon 1 May 2000: East of Scotland Cup semi-final
Spartans 2 Dunipace 1
Scorers: Struthers, Williams
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Hutton, Millican, Henderson, Gilfillan, Gauld, Williams (sub A Brown 85), Struthers (Sub A Gray 65), Lewis (sub Paterson 75).
Subs not used: Morton, S Gray.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans bounced back with one of their best performances of the season playing excellently to win comfortably, the only cloud was a bad injury which has put striker Lewis out of the final. The game started evenly but it was Dunipace who took the lead when indecision at the back allowed their striker to break through and score easily. Spartans came back well and equalised when Smart made a great run down the right and his cross was volleyed home by Struthers. Lewis then missed with a header and Spartans stroked the ball about. The second half started well for Spartans and it was no surprise when they took the lead, Lewis crossing to the back post for Williams to nod home. Lewis and Wiliams both missed further chances but Spartans held out to win their place in the final for the second year in succession.
Sat 29 April 2000: League
Cumbernauld Clyde 4 Spartans 2
Scorers: Gilfillan, Paterson
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan (Sub S Gray 80), Hutton, Henderson, Millican, Emery (sub Paterson 35), A Gray (sub A Brown 55), Struthers, Gauld, Gilfillan
Subs not used: Morton, Lumsden.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans were very poor on a league game played on a small pitch in Cumbernauld. Poor marking following a corner allowed Clyde to take the lead
and then they added to their lead just before half time when they broke clear with the shot spinning off the bar into the air, bouncing two yards out and
backspinning into the net!!
A tough team talk from Lumsden meant a brighter start with Gilfillan volleying home from 25 yards however Spartans soon lost another when the
Clyde striker scored with a free header following a corner. Paterson pulled another back but with Spartans caught upfield Clyde scored in the last minute.
The worst performance of the season.
Sat 15 April 2000: League
Spartans 2 Garrowhill Thistle 1
Scorers: Emery (pen), Lewis.
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Hutton, Henderson, Millican, A Gray, Gauld, Struthers (sub S Gray), Emery, Lewis (sub A Brown).
Report (by Craig Graham):
With an outside chance of promotion Spartans should have started positively however it was Garrowhill who had most of the play in the first half. Millican had to clear off the line and then following a disputed corner Garrowhill scored from close range after Spartans lost 2 successive headers. Spartans seemed to be playing with little spirit however just on half time a good move involving Struthers and Emery saw Smart drive into the box only to be bundled to the ground. Emery scored from the spot - sending it straight down the middle as the keeper dived out of the way. Spartans played much better in the second half and midway through scored the winner when Pagan's shot was parried by the 'keeper for Lewis to knock home from close range. Spartans then dominated for 10 minutes with Lewis hitting the post. As the minutes ticked away Garrowhill came back and hit the bar before missing a header from 6 yards. A good win with 5 league games remaining , at least 12 points are needed for the play off spot.
Sat 8 April 2000: East of Scotland Cup q-f
Bank of Scotland 1 Spartans 3
Scorers: Lewis (2), A. Gray
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Hutton, Henderson, Morton, A Gray, A Brown, Struthers, Paterson (sub S Gray 75), Lewis. Subs not used Woods, Lumsden, Whitelock.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans won through comfortably to their second successive semi final of the East of Scotland Cup. After a poor early 15 minutes when Hutton had to clear off the line when Struthers failed to meet the ball it was Lewis who put Spartans ahead with a drive from the edge of the box. Spartans continued to dominate but lost a goal when Brown lost possession and with Smart pushing forward the Bank striker strollled though on the left and easily beat Graham. Spartans had all the pressure in the second half but it took until the last 20 minutes for the goals to come - firstly Lewis who beat the 'keeper to a long high ball to head home, then Andy Gray popped home his first goal of 2000 from 2 yards after Lewis again challenged the 'keeper for a Struthers corner. With the final at Tynecastle this year the team have a great incentive to win the semi final.
Sat 1 April 2000: East of Scotland Cup round 4
Spartans 2 Denny T 0
Scorers: Lewis (2)
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Henderson, Hutton, Millican, McCall (sub S Gray 1), Gauld, Emery, Paterson (sub: A Gray 75), Lewis (sub: Morton 88) subs not
used: Whitelock, Lumsden.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans got off to a lousy start when Graham McCall managed to break his arm in a collission with his marker in the first minute - Stewart Gray came on as
Graham headed off to casualty. Spartans recovered well and Lewis scored after 15 minutes when he took a long ball from the half way line and, coming in
from an angle, slotted it home. There were a few chances scorned by both teams before half time.
In the second half Spartans were in control and scored again midway through the half when Lewis headed home an Emery cross following good work by
Paterson. Denny lost the plot thereafter and it was no surprise when their sweeper was red-carded for his second booking. Chances were not finished by
Spartans but at the other end 'keeper Graham had little to do. Coach Lumsden then showed his disappointment with the forward line when he hauled off Lewis
bringing on veteran Ian Morton in his place!! The quarter final is this Saturday when Spartans are away to the Bank of Scotland.
Sat 18 March 2000: East of Scotland Cup round 3 replay
Leith Athletic 1 Spartans 2
Scorers: Woods (pen), Lewis.
Team: Wilson, Smart, Hutton, Henderson (c), Millican, Pagan, Gauld, McCall, Woods, Struthers (Brown 64), Lewis: Subs not used, A Gray, Morton, Graham,
Whitelock
Report (by Craig Graham):
In a scrappy game at Leith Links Spartans won through to the 4th round of the East of Scotland cup.After a dull opening 15 minutes Spartans began to dominate and won a penalty when Woods through ball to Smart saw the Leith defender bring down the youngster. Woods slotted home. Spartans then dominated for 20 minutes with several chances being missed although Struthers came closest with a left foot volley which crashed against the bar with the 'keeper beaten. As the half came to a close Leith came back and scored from the edge of the box when a clearance was only partially made. The second half saw little incident and the game went into extra time. After 5 minutes Lewis scored the decisive goal - new player Brown charged down a clearance and the ball fell kindly for Lewis who smashed home from 10 yards. Spartans continued to miss chances before with only 5 minutes remaining Leith hit the post. The game fell away although in the last 10 minutes Leith had two players sent off as they lost the plot.
Sat 11 March 2000: East of Scotland Cup round 3
Spartans 3 Leith Athletic 3
Scorers: Woods (2), Lewis.
Team: Wilson, Smart, S Gray (Struthers 40), Henderson, Hutton, Millican, Gauld, Gilfillan, Woods, Lewis, Williams (sub Paterson 80) subs not used:
Lumsden, Graham.
Report (by Craig Graham):
Spartans fighting spirit earned them a draw in the East Cup third round tie at Peffermill. After a close 20 minutes Spartans took the lead when Lewis robbed the defender, cut the ball back for Williams whose cross was turned in by Derek Woods returning to the side for his first start since November. Leith then scored two quick goals. Firstly, some slack marking saw the Leith striker finish well from 10 yards, then a shot from 30 yards looped over Wilson. Struthers then had to come on for Gray (and play left wing back!) who suffered a bad rib injury. The second half started with Spartans playing better and they equalised when a great move involving Struthers, Williams and Lewis was finished well by Woods. Leith however looked dangerous on the break and with 10 minutes remaining they scored following a corner - the first header was won by the Leith striker despite the attention of four defenders, leaving a tap in for the striker. Spartans weren't playing badly but defensive lapses looked to have put them out of the cup however in the second minute of injury time Millican turned up in the left wing back position and crossed for Lewis to head home. A jubilant Spartans bench erupted - a better defensive display in the replay will surely see them through.
Sat 4 March 2000: League
Westhill 2 Spartans 1
Scorer: McCall.
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan, Henderson (c), Millican, Hutton, McCall, S Gray, A Gray, Paterson, Lewis sub: Lumsden (not used)
Report (by Craig Graham):
Yet another disappointing 2nd XI result away in a snowy East Kilbride. After a shaky start Spartans started playing some of their best football for some weeks - returning to a 3 - 5 - 2 formation they looked dangerous and it was no surprise when they took the lead - a great run and shot from 25 yards by Graham McCall taking the lead (taking the salute from his private fan club). Spartans then dominated until the last 20 minutes when Westhill came back into the game scoring first when their no 8 had a free header at a corner and then when Spartans lost possession they broke forward and scored easily. If Spartans had taken their chances when on top it might have been different however the home team 'keeper didn't really have a save to make.
Sat 26 February 2000: League
Spartans 1 Denny 1
Scorer: Williams.
Team: Graham, Smart, Millican, Henderson (c), S Gray, Williams, Hutton (sub
A Gray 78), Gauld, Struthers (sub Pagan 20), Lewis, Paterson
Report (by Craig Graham):
Another disappointing result. In the first 20 minutes Spartans played very well, keeping possesion creating a couple of half chances - Lewis coming closest when the goalkeeper did well to block from close range. Coach Lumsden's pre game team talk was working well. However, just when it was looking good, playmaker Struthers managed to trip over the kit bag and substitute Andy Gray when chasing a loose ball and limped off! Although Spartans seemed to lose shape they actually managed to score when Williams sprinted through and actually score a "1 on 1" with his left peg!! Denny came into the game as the half wore on however Spartans seemed in control. The second half was a different story with Denny well on top and it was no surprise when they equalised midway though the half - following a long throw.
Spartans came back into the game but there were few chances and the game petered out. Millican did make one long run forward but the ball fell to his right foot 20 yards out and predictably his shot flew over the bar.
Sat 19 February 2000: League
Spartans 2 BP 2
Team: Graham, Smart, Pagan (sub S Gray), Hutton, Millican, Henderson, McCall,
Gauld, A Gray (sub Woods), Struthers, Lewis (Sub Paterson).
Report (by Craig Graham):
A number of missed chances saw Spartans throw away 2 points.
In the first half Struthers and Andy Gray both missed "1 on 1's" and then
Lewis managed to stop Struthers shot when it was heading towards an empty
net!!
Struthers then made amends when he hooked home following a Henderson header
from a McCall corner.
However, Spartans then simply stopped playing and BP scored twice, the first a
deflection off Millican then a 20 yard effort in the top corner with Graham
nowhere!
Woods, Paterson and Stewart Gray came on and Spartans fought back with McCall
scoring calmly after being put through.
The game finished with Spartans on top however the winning goal wouldn't come.
Sat 5 February 2000: League
Spartans 0 Aberforth Rangers 2
Team: Graham,Smart,Pagan (Gauld), Hutton (Struthers), Henderson, Millican,
McCall, A Gray, S Gray, Lewis, Williams (sub Paterson).
Report (by Craig Graham):
Aberforth started far better than Spartans and took the lead with a close range shot after a cross was not cleared. Spartans then came more into the game but despite having the bulk of possession for the remainder of the first half and, to midway through the second, very few chances were created. Aberforth then scored from a penalty when Stewart Gray brought down their striker when he seemed to be heading away from goal. The introduction of the three Spartans substitutes made little impact as Aberforth organised well at the back.
Sat 29 January 2000: League
Garrowhill Thistle 3 Spartans 4
Scorer: Clive Lewis (3) and McCall
Team: .
Report (by Dougie Henderson): A virtuoso performance from the rejuvenated Clive Lewis enabled Spartans to emerge victorious from this top-of-the-table clash against Garrowhill. Hat-trick hero Lewis was undoubtedly man of the match as he single-handedly destroyed the league leaders' rock-like defensive line. Rumours of stand-in skipper Millican being more guttered than Celtic Park proved unfounded as he successfully marshalled his troops to stage a fine second-half fightback, defeating the weakened opposition in testing conditions.
Spartans took an early lead when Lewis robbed the Garrowhill sweeper, lumbered towards goal and coolly slotted home past the advancing keeper. Williams could only look on in awe. The Peffermill outfit, playing into a stiff breeze, set about holding their lead until half-time. Given their penchant for surrendering possession, this looked a flawed strategy. And so it proved, as a dogged first-half show by Millican and co. was undone by leaking two sloppy goals. A misunderstanding at a throw-in allowed a Garrowhill midfielder time and space to fire past Graham from twenty-five yards. The home side took the lead when slack marking allowed a forward to head home from a corner.
Half Time : Garrowhill: 2 Spartans: 1
Garrowhill's game plan gradually began to fall apart as the game turned on two unsavoury incidents. First, the home side's keeper was substituted due to illness; Brian's ploy of leaving out-of-date satsumas in the dressing room finally paying off. They were then reduced to ten men when their key midfielder was dismissed for retaliation after a crunching Gray tackle.
Spartans began to claw themselves back into the game, piling pressure on to the hapless replacement keeper. The Garrowhill centre-back handled a cross-field pass under no pressure. McCall fired in the resultant free-kick, which cannoned down off the bar. Andy Gray ensured there was no doubt about the ball crossing the line by slamming it into the unguarded net.
The away side moved ahead as substitute Paterson fed Lewis and the big striker slipped the clumsy lunge of the Garrowhill keeper before skewering the ball home. He completed his hat-trick with fifteen minutes to go, heading into the net after a goalmouth stramash. Garrowhill were given encouragement for a late comeback when, to shouts of 'Catch it', Graham fumbled a cross at the Garrowhill striker's feet and he gleefully rammed home. However, plucky Spartans held on until the final whistle, pulling off a great result which throws the race for the league title wide open.
Special mention to Neil Gauld, the injury-ravaged midfielder being included in the starting lineup for the first time this season and to Jamie Pagan, who was again outstanding, with a series of last gasp interceptions and little jumps into the air. But the day belonged to Clive Lewis. What gnashing of teeth and bewilderment this big striker causes.
Scoring : (0-1), (1-1), (2-1), (2-2), (2-3), (2-4), (3-4)
What they said:
Alan Smart : 'There was absolutely nothing wrong with that throw-in'
Andy Gray : 'Clive, have you thought of becoming a model'
Derek Woods : 'Lummie, what did you put me on for?
Douglas Henderson : 'That performance was @%$*!'
Coach Lumsden : 'Is there anything behind me?'
Landlord in Garrowhill Tavern : 'ye cannae eat chips in here'
Sat 22 January 2000: Scottish Amateur Cup, 4th round
Bannockburn 4 Spartans 1
Scorer: Clive Lewis
Team: Graham, Brown, Pagan, Henderson, Millican, Struthers (sub Smart), McCall, A Gray, Hutton,
Williams (sub Paterson), Lewis. Subs not used: Masters, Lumsden, S Gray.
Report: A big crowd (well almost 80) saw Spartans lose to one of the cup favourites. After Williams had a good effort saved by the Bannockburn 'keeper the home side dominated for the next 20 minutes, scoring twice - the first a close range header, the second when veteran keeper Graham showed his age and let a shot bounce away from him for the rebound to be netted. Lewis replied almost immediately with a good header from a Williams cross and when half time came Spartans thought they had a chance. However, Bannockburn dominated the opening minutes of the second half scoring when a shot from a corner looped into the top corner. Spartans couldn't retain enough possession to threaten and Bannockburn finished of the scoring with 5 minutes left.
Sat 15 January 2000: Scottish Amateur Cup, 3rd round replay
Dumbarton Academy FP 0 Spartans 1
Scorer: Clive Lewis
Team: Graham, Brown, Millican, Henderson (c), Pagan, Smart (sub.Struthers), McCall, A Gray,
Hutton, Lewis, Williams (sub.Paterson). Subs not used: S Gray, Lumsden
Report: On a bone hard pitch Spartans went into the fourth round of the Scottish Cup with the only goal coming after 5 minutes from Clive Lewis. He took a through ball from Williams, shrugged off a challenge from the defender before knocking it past the keeper.
Dumbarton came more into the game as the first half progressed and despite forcing a number of corners they didn't come cose to scoring. Dougie Henderson did come close to his first goal of the season but his sclaf was saved by his own keeper !
In the second half, however, it took a strong defensive performance to hold out. Dumbarton had several chances but "veteran" keeper Graham produced a number of fine saves, with a couple pushed over the bar when the shots seemed destined for the top corner. Spartans did have a couple of chances on the break as the game wore on but the bouncy pitch and some poor final passes conspired against them. There was also a good shout for a penalty when Alan Struthers was brought down with only a couple of minutes left but as Alan had run from his own half the referee assumed that his legs had simply gone.
The referee added on over 6 minutes after some time wasting however it was the Spartans touchline who were celebrating when the final whistle went. Even grumpy Shaun was seen to smile (although, not for long- he remembered he had picked up a knock and was concerned about the Whitehill vs Alloa score).
Coach Lumsden croaked "despite the conditions we always wanted to play, we were never in any doubt that the game should have been on!!!" (For those who were not there he spent the hour before the game complaining about how hard the pitch was !!!).
Other than an(other) Andy Gray booking it was a tremendous victory with a trip to Bannockburn (previous winners) the reward. Amongst the crowd of over 50 were 2 Spartans fans, Andy's dad and his uncle - they may even get in for nothing if they want to come back !
Sat 27th November 1999: Scottish Amateur Cup, 3rd round
Spartans 3 Dumbarton Academy FP 3
Scorers: Clive Lewis (2), Alan Smart
Team: Graham, Smart, Hutton, Millican. Pagan, S Gray (sub Craig), A Gray, McCall,
Struthers, Lewis and Paterson
Subs not used, Morton, Williams, Woods, Lumsden
Report: The injury hit team managed an exciting 3 - 3 draw. An early deflected Lewis shot took the lead and then Dumbarton equalised just before half time with another deflected effort. Spartans took the game to the opposition in the second period hitting the bar and then seeing a Paterson header cleared off the line. However, Dumbarton then scored two quick goals. In the last ten minutes the comeback came firstly with Alan Smart's first goal of the season, and in the final minute Clive Lewis' second, a header from an Alan Smart cross.
Sat 20th November 1999: East of Scotland Cup
Craigmillar 0 Spartans 2
Scorers: Clive Lewis (2)
Team: (3-5-2) C Graham,E Brown,S Millican,B Hutton,A Smart,A Gray,G McCall,D Woods,
S Gray,C Lewis,A Struthers. Subs not used: I Morton, D Lumsden
Sat 13 May 2000: Lothian East league
Spartans 1 Pathhead 3
Scorer: Antoniewicz
Mon 24 April 2000: Lothian East league
Spartans 2 Musselburgh 1
Scorers: J.Calder, Kirkpatrick
Wed 19 April 2000: Lothian East league
Dalkeith 1 Spartans 4
Scorers: Simon ? (2), Link, Robertson
Sat 15 April 2000: Holyrood Cup Quarter Final
Dalkeith 2 Spartans 0
Sat 8 April 2000: Holyrood Cup
Danderhall Utd 1 Spartans 3
Scorers: Simon ?, Kirkpatrick (pen), Laing (pen)
Sat 1 April 2000: Anderson Cup
Craigmillar Th 3 Spartans 1
Scorer: J.Calder
Sat 25 March 2000: Anderson Cup
Spartans 5 Bathgate Rovers 0
Scorers: J.Calder 2, N.Emery 3
Team: A.Calder, C. McNeill, Bryce, Robertson, Craven, Laing, Kirkpatrick, Antoniewicz(Trialist 75), J.Calder, Link(Trialist 60), Emery
Report (by Dave Bryce):
Spartans put on a thrilling exhibition of football (Dave's hangover on Saturday obviously affected his memory of the game - it was sh**e) at Peffermill
on Saturday to thrash Bathgate Rovers 5-0 in the Anderson Cup. Nick Emery made a welcome return to the club and quickly showed his goal scoring
ability when he scored in the first minute with a chip shot over the goalie into the bottom corner after being put through by KirkyP. Spartans without Doug
Cowie saw Iain Kirkpatrick replace Cowie in the midfield and he looked very impressive as he ran the midfield for the whole of the first half making some
very telling passes that unfortunately the forwards did not convert.Young Riki Laing, an exciting prospect for the club, was also very impressive as his probing
runs and telling crosses played havoc in the Bathgate defence. Spartans ran riot in the first half but somehow could not score.
Half time: Spartans 1-0 Bathgate Rovers
The second half was very much like the first the only difference being that Nick Emery and Jamie Calder finally found the scoring touch. Both players
scored doubles in the second half as Spartans shifted up a gear and left Bathgate trailing behind them. Kirkpatrick again orchestrated the midfield
but it was Laing who had some great touches and passes which sent through Emery and Calder on several occasions to score. A convincing win for
Spartans against a poor Bathgate team. One more incident in the game was a missed penalty by Spartans but the game was well over by then. Spartans play
Craigmillar in the next round which will prove a harder task than this game.
Man of the Match: Several candidates but really Iain Kirkpatrick edged it from Riki Laing. KP
in the twilight of his career looked ten years younger as he ran the game from start to finish.
Save of the Day: The corner flag which saved Bryce's penalty from going out for a shy.
Quotes of the Day:
"Do you think I'll get a game for you guys next year...I am good honest ! ". Clive Lewis to Dave Bryce around 11.30pm in Brannigans.
" I'll buy you a beer ...I am good Honest ! ". Clive Lewis to Dave Bryce 11.45pm.
NB: Due to a slight hangover the author cannot remember the goals or how they happened......sorry.
Sat 18 March 2000: League
Tweeddale Rovers 1 Spartans 0
Team: A.Calder, Frame, Robertson, Craven, C.McNeill, Laing, Cowie, Antoniewicz, Kirkpatrick(McCartney 45), Link, J.Calder.
Report (by Dave Bryce):
Spartans lost by a single goal in this crucial relegation battle in Peebles on Saturday. Playing Tweeddale for the third time in 4 weeks Spartans failed
to make it three wins out of three. Spartans controlled the game for the first half with Cowie and new Polish signing Antoniewicz proving a very
effective partnership in midfield. However the two forwards could not capitalise on the service given to them and the first half remained goaless.
Half Time : Tweeddale Rovers 0 - 0 Spartans
The second half began much like the first with Spartans playing some very attractive football but when they got possession in the last third of the
park they seemed to waste chance after chance. Tweeddale scored on the hour mark with an excellent goal , a cross from the left and a bullet
header form close range gave Calder no chance. Spartans battled bravely for the last 30 minutes but it was not a day for the two forwards as
they failed to find the vital touch. This leaves Spartans with an uphill task to avoid relegation this season.
Man of the Match: Doug Cowie once again the mainstay of the Spartans third team.
Shot of the Day: Spartans didn't have one.
"Pot calling the kettle black" - shout of the day: Dave Bryce (to Jamie Calder for shouting too vehemently at the ref:) "Who's reffing this game anyway?"
Sat 11 March 2000: League
Spartans 1 Danderhall United 2
Scorer: Brown
Team: Forbes, C McNeill(Trialist 70), Robertson, K McNeill, Frame, Laing, Brown, Cowie, Calder, Link, Craven (Bryce 75).
Report (by Dave Bryce):
Spartans were just edged out by top of the league Danderhall United on Saturday. A strong Spartans performance saw them overrun Danderhall in the
first half, with at least 6 shots on target. Unfortunately, they found the Danderhall keeper in incredible form , pulling off 4 remarkable saves to
deny Link, Craven and Chris McNeill. Inspiring work from midfield veteran Dougie Cowie and some penetrating runs from Laing and Calder must have left
the fan wondering which team was top of the league and which were 3rd bottom.
Half Time: 0-0
The second half began much like the first with Spartans controlling the game, solid defending by both McNeills and Robertson looked like keeping a
clean sheet. However on the hour mark the referee awarded a controversial penalty to Danderhall. Robertson looked to have brought the Danderhall
striker down outside the box but the unsighted ref decided that it was in the box and gave the penalty. Stevie Forbes had no chance as the penalty was
slotted home. Spartans fought back and again the Danderhall keeper looked impossible to beat. Things got worse in the 75th minute when Danderhall
scored a second which looked offside but again the ref who was 30 yards behind the play let it go and Danderhall were 2 up. Brown scored a late
consolation goal after 88 minutes heading in a cross from the left. A good performance from Spartans who look a better side each
time they play. With several of their regulars missing it will be hard for them to get back into the side without a fight.
Sat 4 March 2000: League
Spartans 1 Tweeddale Rovers 0
Scorer: Treagus
Team: Evans, Kirkpatrick, C McNeil, Craven, K McNeil, Cowie, Paul, Treagus, J.Calder, Laing, Brown.
Report (by Grant Craven):
With many players unavailable, eleven names were scraped together with a game plan of damage limitation. However, Spartans started the better team with
some neat touches from the youth policy of Cowie, Paul and Treagus. Spartans struck the decisive blow with a neat through ball from Paul which Treagus
first headed past the oncoming keeper and then stroked the ball home. Calder had a goal chalked off for being "well onside". Tweeddale had enough
possession but got little change from the teams harrying and defending.
2nd Half - The visitors had the better of the second half with Spartans only occassionally venturing into the oppositions' penalty box. While Tweeddale
had enough chances Spartans, continued to defend effectively albeit rather negatively. A rare chance fell to Kirky P whose powerful shot was chested
down well by the pectorally enhanced Cowie. Kirky P also partook in some inventive body piercing by way of a stray stud. Ultimately not a game of
artistry and invention but rather, resolute defending throughout the team with a desire to get the much needed victory.
Sat 26 February 2000: Friendly
Tweeddale Rovers 3 Spartans 4
Scorer: Link (3), McNeill
Team: A.Calder, Wallace (Bryce 70), Robertson, McNeill, Frame, Lovey (Smith 7(McNeill15)), Cowie, Craven, Laing, Brown (Wallace 80), Link.
Report (by Dave Bryce):
Due to a lack of an official , the league game on Saturday was a friendly, allowing Spartans 3rd team to try a few new players and some old players in
different positions. Martyn Link started his first full game of the season as did Ali Brown. Link repaid the manager's confidence in him with a well
taken shot at the back post to put Spartans ahead after 10 minutes. Darryl Lovie was then replaced by Pat Smith a trialist who came off after 5 minutes
to be replaced by the new slimline Chris McNeill. He was quick to get in to the game and by adding a second when he challenged the goalie and put it
into the net giving Spartans a 2-0 lead. Tweeddale pulled one back before half time after a blatantly off-side breakaway from half way.
Half time: Tweeddale 1 Spartans 2
The second half started with Spartans playing with more heart than they have all season - even winning some tackles in midfield. With about 20 minutes to
go Martyn Link unleashed a ferocious volley that dipped under the bar to put Spartans 3-1 ahead, another outstanding goal from Link. Tweeddale pulled
another back but again it was that man Link who took the match ball when he slotted past the Tweeddale goalie for his hat trick. Tweeddale scored a late
third but Spartans held on to win the game.
A hat trick for Link and a solid performance from Keith McNeil at the back must have under-pressure second team manager Lumsden questioning why he is not looking at some up and coming third team players to take the place of some of his stars who just aren't performing for him.
Man of The Match - Martyn Link
Quotes:
"I don't think Clive Lewis or Struthers have scored a hat trick this season" - M Link
" Has Struthers ever scored a hat trick " - Most of dressing room
" Who is Chris Patterson? " Anon
Sat 19 February 2000: Lothian East League
Spartans 1 Loanhead 3
Scorer: Masters
Team: Bryce, Wallace, Frame, K.McNeill, Masters(Robertson 45), Laing (Brown 35), Cowie,
Kirkpatrick, J.Calder, Craven (C.McNeill), Morton
Report (by Dave Bryce):
A game of two halves at Peffermill on Saturday as the thirds went down 3-1
to an impressive Loanhead side. Without regular goalie Calder, Spartans were
forced to have Bryce as a stand in once again. For the first 30 minutes the
thirds battled well as Loanhead had most of the possession. After 30 minutes
Spartans were awarded a free kick just outside the Loanhead box. Glenn
Masters smashed a ferocious left foot shot into the top corner to give
Spartans the lead. However, an equaliser soon followed from a Loanhead corner.
Half Time: Spartans 1 Loanhead 1
Spartans had to make 2 changes at half time with Laing and Masters going off due to injury. The second half started much the same as the first with Loanhead piling on the pressure. They went 2-1 up after the hour mark when the Spartans defenders left the Loanhead centre forward to jump unchallenged to bullet a header into the net. The game was finished when a short back pass let Loanhead finish off the scoring.
Man of the match: Doug Cowie who worked harder than most men half his age.
Shot of the match: Glenn Masters amazing free kick to give Spartans the lead.
Sat 5 February 2000: Lothian East League
Spartans 3 Drummohr 3
Scorers: Wallace, Morton and Link.
Team: Bryce, Wallace (Link 45), Robertson, Masters, McNeil, Laing, Kirkpatrick, Craven
(Smart Jnr 70), Cowie, Morton, J.Calder.
Report (by Dave Bryce):
A windy day at Peffermill saw a much changed Spartans side play a Drummhor
side riding high in the league. With regular goalkeeper and left back Calder
and Craig away for an alleged romantic weekend in the eternal city Manager
Bryce was left with a few selection headaches. However, giving Neil Robertson
his debut at centre half and pulling the
goalie gloves on himself Spartans prepared to continue their Millennium
league winning streak.
Spartans played with the wind in the first half and this paid dividends with around 20 minutes gone when veteran right back Dave Wallace sent a glorious 40 yard free kick screaming into the top corner giving the Drummhor goalie no chance.
Spartans continued to dominate the first half , the opposition only having one chance of note but keeper Bryce pulled off a miracle save (any save from "Michelin Man" Bryce being a miracle) to turn a goal bound header onto the bar. With around 10 minutes left in the first half Spartans centre forward Ian Morton collected the ball at the half way line to run 40 yards to slot a left footed shot passed the outstretched keeper. A goal that must satisfy him and Dave Bryce after the criticism received from certain parties for the selection of Morton.
Half Time Spartans 2 . 0 Drummhor
The second half started with Spartans backs to the wall. With Link replacing Wallace, Morton moved to right back. Drummhor sent long ball after long ball into the Spartans box but the defenders and keeper coped easily. After the hour mark, Drummhor pulled a goal back when a corner was turned in at the front post. This began a dreadful 20 minutes for Spartans. Drummhor equalised in 65 minutes when a swerving free kick gave Bryce no chance. And then 2 minutes later Bryce managed to flap the ball into his own net to make it 3-2.
However, Spartans fought back and with 10 minutes left a cross from Laing saw Martin Link scream a volley into the top corner to equalise. Three great goals from a team who have had trouble scoring this season.
Shot of the Match:
Although Links goal was in there, Dave Wallace's forty yard drive takes
this.
Save of the Match:
Bryce made a string of magnificent saves but a second half full stretch dive
was the best of the day.
Man of the Match:
Ian Morton after scoring a great goal had a magnificent if reluctant
performance at right back in the second half.
They said:" I don't f£%ckin believe it " - Clive Lewis when he heard that
Ian Morton had scored.
Sat 15 January 2000: Cup
Spartans 0 Tweeddale Rovers 2
Team: A. Calder, Wallace, Bryce, McNeill, Craig, Gauld, Craven, Lovie, Morton, Kirkpatrick, A N Other, Subs: Laing
Report:
Veteran Morton made a surprise appearance up front. Ian Kirkpatrick shouted at the ref and the ref shouted back with such
venom that Kirkyp went missing for the next 20 minutes.
Davie Bryce obviously wasn't paying attention as he then swore at the ref and managed to get booked. The rest of the game
was uninspiring with neither team making many chances. Tweeddale scored late in the first half with a well timed break
from the half way line that beat the off side 'trap' and a good finish from 18 yards. The second goal killed off the game
midway through the second half when Spartans defence was static after an 18 yard strike rebounded off the post and let the
Tweeddale player stroll in to finish into an empty net.
Sat 8 January 2000: Lothian East League
East Linton 0 Spartans 1
Scorers: Laing
Team: Calder, Bryce, Henderson, Hutton, Craig, Pagan, Craven, Gauld, Laing,
Lovie, Smart. Subs: Lumsden (not used), Morton, Link.
Report:
Spartans thirds took all the points on Saturday in terrible conditions at
East Linton. Due to the gale force winds there was never going to be any
flowing football in this game but a well organised Spartans side dominated
the first half. With some solid goalkeeping from Alan Calder (who surely
must be pushing the veteran Graham for a game in the twos) , combined with some
excellent defending made sure that the home team struggled to make any real
chances. The first clear cut chance fell to Spartans when a cross field
pass found full back Bryce collecting the ball just inside the Linton half.
His "lightning" pace took him away from the pursuing defenders but
unfortunately his shot was off target, way off target.
Spartans took the lead near the end of the first half when a brave knockdown from Smart found new signing Laing who blasted a 20 yard volley past the outstretched keeper.
The weather ruined the second half but a gritty performance from Spartans ensured the victory. Excellent midfield displays form Craven and Gauld produced a handful of chances in the second half but Spartans just couldn't kill off East Linton.
Dougie Henderson wanted it to be known that he managed to get booked for dissent for the first time in his career "for moaning at the ref" (not for the first time in his career).
Sat 19th December 1999: Lothian East League
Musselburgh 1 Spartans 0
Team: C Graham, Brown, McNeill, Morton, Craven, Gauld, Link (sub Laing at half time),
Woods, Craig, A Gray, J Calder
Report:
Yet again Spartans managed to thrash the opposition nil one. The first half
was pretty even with Musselburgh missing a couple of good chances but not as
good as those put over the bar by Andy Gray and Derek Woods - Derek even
managed to get his effort to bounce two yards out from goal and then to go over the bar.
Musselburgh scored early in the second half when their fast winger latched onto a long ball to waltz round keeper Graham and score.
The remainder of the game saw Spartans with 80% of possession with several misses from Gray, Woods, Calder, Gauld etc etc Andy's header from two yards would have been easier to score than to put it past the post.
Sat 12th December 1999: Lothian East League
Tranent 7 Spartans 0
Team: A Calder, D Lumsden, Frame, K Craig, B Hutton, C McNeill, I Kirkpatrick, G Craven,
A Smart, A Gray. Subs: M link, D Bryce, C Graham
Report:
A weakened third team struggled in appalling conditions. A waterlogged pitch was made
worse by continued torrential rain but Spartans kept playing the only way they know how....
A few players managed to sneak into the squad from the second team ranks but it was clear that half
a season under the management of Lumsden had severely impacted their ability to play football.
Wee Andy Gray was struggling to keep his head above the water and Alan Struthers was working hard
to prove that everything Clive Lewis says about him is actually true.
The late substitution of Lumbo by Club Captain Craig Graham (appearing in a roving midfield role) was the final ignominy.
Sat 27th November 1999: Scottish Amateur Cup, 3rd round at Murray Royal Hospital, Perth
Auchterader Primrose 2 Spartans 1
Scorers: Lovie
Team: A Calder, Murray, Frame, Bryce, Cowie, C McNeill, G Craven, Lane, D Lovie, J Calder,
. Subs: M link .
Report:
A closely fought Scottish cup tie resulted in the thirds losing narrowly in
Perth on Saturday. Spartans started well and went one up midway through the
first half with a close range shot from Darryl Lovie. However some slack
play and getting caught in possession too many times resulted in a Primrose
equaliser at the end of the first half.
Spartans were caught napping in the first minute of the second half losing
a bad goal after a Primrose counter attack. However the thirds rallied and
dominated the second half with solid performances in defence and midfield
but too many squandered chances from the forwards and a good performance
from the home team keeper resulted in an early exit for the brave Spartan
boys.
Sat 20th November 1999: East of Scotland Cup
Redpath Athletic 4 Spartans 0
Team: A Calder, Davie Wallace, Gordon Murray, Ian, Keith, Doug Cowie, Davie Bryce, Lane, Daryl Lovie, Jamie Calder,
Grant Craven. Subs: Jamie Green (for Lane).
