Clyde v Livingston

Recap

Despite taking an early lead through Craig Bryson, the Bully Wee lost this third pre-season challenge match, with Livingston, by two goals to one.

Clyde slowly began to control the game in the first half as they passed the ball well and it was of little surprise when they took the lead. Good work by Malone and Miller allowed Craig Bryson to steer the ball home from close range to cheer the support.

Numerous SPL and SFL managers including Rangers boss Alex McLeish whose side faces Livi in the opening Leage fixture, watched as Livingston continued to be put on the back foot as Clyde competed well with O’Donnell and McHale prominent. Against the run of play, the Lions got back into the match and for Clyde it was a poor goal to lose. A weak cross was missed by the Bully Wee defenders and fell into the path of ex-Manchester United player Paul Tierney to fire past trialist ex- Dundee United keeper Paul Jarvie.

Disappointingly for Clyde, Gary Arbuckle limped off injured midway through the first half but Clyde appeared not to be too downhearted and continued to press the SPL side. Indeed Clyde were unfortunate not to regain the lead as a magnificent Miller lob crashed off the bar as Clyde’s passing and style of play continued to entertain the home fans.

The second half was a scrappier affair, though Clyde were seldom troubled as chances were few and far between. However, just as it appeared that a draw would be the final result, Livingston scored. A cross was not collected by trialist keeper, ex Gretna player Craig Summergill, and after a melee in the box Robert Snodgrass crashed the ball into the roof of the net. Clyde, lively throughout, nearly equalised in the final moments when Romauld Bouadji missed from close range despite displaying great skill in creating the chance in a crowded penalty box.

So it was not to be for the Bully Wee but the match again proved to be valuable exercise in preparing the squad for the new season.