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Andy Low’s search for a first point – and goal – continues after a first half Niall Kennedy penalty settled this game of few chances that saw both teams finish the match with 10 men. Last week Low warned that fortunes may not improve immediately as he looks to rejuvenate a side that has been short on goals and low on confidence all season. Those efforts include bringing in forwards Sam Robertson and Jonny Smith, and defender David Wilson, whose arrival on loan from Peterhead was announced before kick-off. All three started at Grant Park.
With the wind at their backs Lossie caused Locos problems from an early corner with the Railwaymen twice clearing from the line. Locos began to settle as a good move down the left released Robert Ward in the area. The forward couldn’t get his shot away and had to settle for a corner. Shortly before the half hour mark, Locos were grateful for their defensive reinforcements as Logan Johnstone was forced off, replaced by Tam Reid after falling awkwardly on his ankle.
A few minutes later the Coasters scored what would prove to be only goal of the game. The referee pointed to the spot as Mark Souter was penalized for a clumsy challenge and Kennedy made no mistake from twelve yards.
There was little goalmouth action until the final few minutes of the half. Sam Robertson headed off target from Ward’s cross. The latter then had an effort saved by Cameron Farquhar before Lloyd Robertson got his head to the loose ball only to see it cleared off the line.
Farquhar was in action again early in the second half, stopping Garry Wood’s header at close quarters. The keeper saved again from Wood but for the most part was being well protected by his defence. The closest Locos came to an equalizer was when substitute Jamie Michie crashed a free kick against the crossbar with a little over 10 minutes remaining.
As Locos toiled to find a way back into the game the hosts still posed a threat, most notably when it took a low save at full stretch from Andy Reid to prevent Ross Elliott adding to the score. With 7 minutes remaining, Lossie were reduced to 10 men. Jared Kennedy can have few complaints as he received his marching orders for upending Nathan Meres long after the flying winger had knocked the ball past him.
Locos couldn’t take advantage of the extra man and the numbers were evened out in he final minute with Ward dismissed after catching a clearing defender late. There was just time for Jonny Smith to shoot narrowly off target but this was another game in which Locos were left to rue their lack of a cutting edge. Next up is a home game against bottom of table Strathspey Thistle where fans, players and gaffer alike will be hoping for some goals to cheer.
Lossiemouth: C Farquhar, Weir, Leslie, J Kennedy, McAndrew, R Farquhar (Elliott), Archibald, N Kennedy, Morrison, Stuart (MacArthur), Forbes (Campbell) Unused Subs: Archibald, Brew, Gryc, Woodhouse
Locos: A Reid, Mitchell (Meres), Dingwall, Souter, Johnstone (T Reid), Ward, S Robertson, Wood, J Smith, Wilson, L Robertson (Michie) Unused Subs: Burnett, B Smith, Gill, Shingler
