Ayr United under 17s draw with Stranraer

Dec 11 2009 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A MAKESHIFT Ayr United under 17s overcame some difficult weather conditions to snatch a home draw against Stranraer.

The Honest Men were without six first-team regulars and coach Malky Boyle drafted in Cameron Marlow and Tommy March from the under 16s, as well as trialist keeper Darryl Jones.

But despite the enforced changes, the 17s started brightly but soon struggled in the high winds. Eddie McTernan almost broke the deadlock seven minutes before the interval. But within seconds Stranraer went down the other end to take the lead.

Ayr brought on attacking full-back Dale McClelland for Liam Steel in the second half and he helped drive them forward. It was no surprise when the sub set up McTernan for the equaliser on 72 minutes.

United side pressed for the winner but had to settle for the draw in a performance that never reached any great heights.

Boyle said: "In general it wasn't a good day at the office for most of the team but there were pleasing introductions from the bench by Mark Armour, Dale McClelland and Lloyd McKelvie.

“They certainly helped change the pattern of the game. It wasn't dropping points that was the main issue, it was the manner which it was done. However, I'm sure both players and coaches learned from the showing."

The under 15s put in a better display against a tough and physical St Johnstone outfit. Saints had plenty of the ball but United held firm, defended well and took their chances when they came along. Mark Shankland scored twice, while Gary Griffin also got on the scoresheet in what was a pleasing afternoon for coach David White.

He said: "I was really pleased with the display and we had good performances throughout the team. St Johnstone were a decent side and had a lot of the ball but we took our chances and I'm delighted with our finishing and work in the final third. Overall, it was another solid display and we're happy with the efforts of the players in what was a difficult game for them."

Sunday’s fixtures: there is a friendly double header against Hearts at Carrick Academy, Maybole. The 15s play at 12 noon while the 17s follow at 2pm.

The leagues shut down for the festive break with the older teams resuming on January 7 and the younger sides at the beginning of February.