Stirling Albion:- Hogarth, Hay, Forsyth, Nugent, Graham (Bingham 54), Aitken, Bell, Devine (Wilson 81), Cramb, Snodgrass and Taggart (Tomana 53). Unused Subs:- Fraser and Christie

Peterhead:- McCaldon, Hegarty, Cameron, Mann, MacDonald, Tully, Sharp (Gilfillan 78), MacAulay, Bavidge (Low 89), Keogh and McKay. Unused Subs:- Buchan, Good and Calder

The Binos made the long trip north looking to extend their winning run to 8 matches to keep the pressure on Morton at the top of the table. Unfortunately, Peterhead’s first victory of the season over the Binos, coupled with Morton’s big win over Forfar, more or less guaranteed that the Binos’ hopes of playing First Division football next season now lie in the play offs.
Peterhead deserved their victory as they looked the more determined team though a strong wind made it a chilly afternoon for the spectators. However, it must be said that both Peterhead goals, which were scored by McKay, came as a result of poor defensive play. The Binos also lacked the fluency which has been a trademark of their play for most of this season though, for a short period in the second half, it looked as though they might just pull off another narrow victory over the Blue Toon.
The Binos squad showed 2 changes from Tuesday night. Bell returned from suspension to take his customary place in midfield with Wilson dropping to the bench whilst Taggart replaced O’Brien who must have had an injury as he wasn’t even in the squad.
The only goal of the half came in the 5th minute when McKay capitalised on some indecision between Hay and Graham to slip the ball under Hogarth. Snodgrass and Devine both had chances to get the equaliser but Devine’s shot flashed over the bar whilst McCaldon did well to save Snodgrass’s fierce shot.
The Binos started the second half the more lively side and Snodgrass had two attempts at goal, both from free kicks, in the first few minutes. Whilst his first effort sailed over the bar, the keeper at least had to save his second effort, albeit with some ease.
The Binos were beginning to use the wind to their advantage and it was no surprise when a left foot shot from Snodgrass from inside the box beat McCaldon to level the score at 1-1. However, it wasn’t long before Peterhead regained the lead when a cross from the right found it’s way to McKay to tuck away.
The Binos had 2 appeals for penalties waved away by referee Finnie. Firstly, Cramb’s shot appeared to hit off a defender’s hand whilst Bell was quite clearly pushed when attempting to go for a high ball. However, neither was given and Peterhead held on quite comfortably to take all three points.
Next up is the final trip of the season to Ayr. The manager now has to decide whether to rest some of his players for the play offs or to try and get some momentum going by playing his strongest team. Whatever decision he makes, I hope the Binos’ fans travel in good numbers and give the team the support they deserve. The play off system has its critics but every team knew the rules at the start of the season. One thing is guaranteed, the end of season won’t be dull.