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Locos secured a first point of the season from a well earned draw at Bellslea Park. In a game that could have gone either way, Fraserburgh held a slender advantage through Will Sim at half time, before goals from Reuben Skea – recalled from his loan at Keith – and Robert Ward turned the game around. Paul Young levelled to ensure that the spoils were shared on a bright afternoon.
The game was even throughout but it was the home side who carried the greater threat in the first half. Conner Douglas saved well from Scott Barbour at point blank range, only to be beaten by a Will Sim shot moments later. The goalkeeper had to be alert 5 minutes later to palm away Kieran Simpson’s header after a corner has glanced the crossbar.
After the break, it was Locos who looked more dangerous. Callum Duncan tested Joe Barbour in the Broch goal as a leveller started to feel inevitable. With the injury list growing, Skea’s spell at Kynoch Park was cut short and he was thrust straight into the starting line up by Dean Donaldson. His running and determination caused Fraserburgh a number of problems and his efforts were rewarded as his speculative overhead effort sailed over Barbour and in at the far post.
It was no more than Locos deserved and they continued to carve out chances. Ward came off the bench to give the Railwaymen the lead with his second goal of the season, finishing off a good move involving Rory Butchart, Daniel Agnew and Josh Buchan. The advantage lasted only a couple of minutes though, as Paul Young’s shot was deflected past Douglas. Neither team looked prepared to settle for a point and both went for the win. A decisive strike couldn’t be found though, and a draw was probably a fair reflection of an entertaining game.
Dean Donaldson will be delighted with his team’s application and, while the nature of Young’s goal will be frustrating, he’ll be pleased to secure a first point of the season from a ground that is never easy to visit. He will hope this performance and result can be built upon next week when Rothes – another team looking for a first win if the season – visit Harlaw Park.
