Falkirk v Clyde

Recap

For the second week in a row, Clyde exited a cup competition at the hands of Falkirk today.

The Scottish League Cup tie was held at Alloa’s Recreation Park due to the installation of a new playing surface at The Falkirk Stadium but The Bairns, who had undertaken their pre-season training at this ground, certainly appeared to be at home as they started the stronger of the two teams.

Despite an early chance for Michael Daly, The Bairns dominated possession and new signing Loy looked particularly threatening. However, the Clyde defence held firm and the team responded in positive fashion creating the best chance of the half on 30 minutes. That chance fell to Gavin Brown, who struck the inside of the post from close range after an excellent run and cross by Bully Wee left back Kieran MacDonald.

Clyde took heart from this chance and finished the first period the stronger.

In contrast to the Ramsdens Cup tie, the interval did not hinder Clyde and, against the Championship club, the visitors continued to create chances. The best of which fell to Kevin Watt, who nearly steered a McColm cross beyond McGovern in the Falkirk goal. It was a missed chance that Clyde were to rue.

Roberts was fouled on the edge of the box and from the resulting free-kick, Alston curled the ball home. Clyde had an immediate opportunity to equalise but a Marsh header went over and the match quickly ran away from the gallant visitors as Falkirk scored two goals in quick succession through Roberts and Grant.

It was a disappointing end to the match in which, for long periods, Clyde impressed. The final three-goal difference between the sides was an unfair reflection on a match which was in the balance for much of the 90 minutes.