Arbroath 1
Ayr United 1
League (League One)

Match Report

Arbroath and Ayr United both battled horrendous conditions tonight at Gayfield as a strong wind blew in from the North Sea over the pitch gusting towards the main stand.

Arbroath made one change with Michael McKenna dropping out with an injury sustained against Alloa Athletic and Gavin Swankie taking his place in the starting line up.

The Lichties attacked the Pleasureland end in a quiet first half from both sides with Danny Denholm almost snatching a goal at the far post as he slid in to try and latch on to a Bobby Linn cross in the 43rd minute but Danny wasn’t to be denied and on the stroke of half time unleashed a 20 yard drive which flew past Jack Ruddy to give the Lichties a crucial lead at half time.

David Gold replaced Blair Yule at half time and the Lichties came out battling and could have doubled their lead within the opening minute when a Ryan Wallace header flashed past the post.

Unfortunately David Gold picked up an injury and despite trying to play on had to come off on the hour mark with Leighton McIntosh coming on in his place. This meant Gavin Swankie returned back into midfield and Wallace and McIntosh spearheaded the attack.

Ayr United did come into the game, but Ricky Gomes was alert to anything in his box.

Thomas O’Brien came close to scoring but his back post header from an Arbroath free kick was just wide.

Arbroath were left scratching their heads when Omar Kader seemed to be fouled on the wing but Referee Colin Steven wasn’t interested, but a minute later there was an even more baffling decision.

Scott Martin who had possession was tackled by Jamie Adams of Ayr and play seemed to move on, before Referee Colin Steven brought play back, booked Martin and awarded Ayr a free kick.

As the free kick was taken it eventually found it’s way to substitute Craig McGuffie who ran into the box before finding the net.

Arbroath then were under pressure for the first real time in the match but Gomes again was solid when called up denying Shankland in injury time.

Omar Kader did have one final strike for the Lichties after running through on goal but his shot was straight at Ruddy.

In the end it was disappointing not to take all 3 points but the extra point pushes us ahead of Alloa Athletic and keeps ups our good home guide at Gayfield this year.

Match report written by Arbroath FC Official Website