Gretna 2008 4

EoS FIRST DIVISION

GALA Fairydean opened their league season with a whimper on Wednesday evening, drowned out by more than 100 visiting fans.

The home side were on top in the opening stages, with Des Sutherland and Rob Hewitson both testing the defence.

Then the young Gretna side went ahead in the 20th minute. David Carmichael's long pass from the right wing found Daniel Rayson, who was admittedly in an offside position, but it didn't stop him slotting the ball past Gavin Watson for the first goal.

Two minutes later, Carmichael launched another cross from the same area. This time, Shaun Milligan was onside. Paul Hossack made a poor show of blocking his way and Milligan thumped the ball into the net.

Nine minutes into the second half, Gretna got a corner, which was scrappily turned home by Nikki White for the third goal.

And with 10 minutes to go, Gala keeper Watson got the prize for the assist of the match, passing the ball to Daniel Carmichael for the fourth and final goal.

Gala Fairydean: G. Watson, S. Noble, G. Wood (S. Mackenzie 82 mins), P. Hossack, S. Greene, G. Gass, J. Kayser, A. Hardie, D. Sutherland, R. Hewitson and J. Wilson.