East of Scotland League: Swifts lose after boss' exit

SWIFTS began life without Jason McCrindle by slipping to a second league defeat of the campaign against Blackburn United.

Following a 2-1 win at Kinnoull last Wednesday, with Aaron Wood and Ben Ramage netting their goals, it was surprisingly announced that McCrindle, who took over in November last year, had left his role as manager.

That success in Perthshire came after they had been beaten at Camelon Juniors, having drawn their First Division opener at Arniston Rangers, whilst their defence of the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup ended at the first hurdle against Thornton Hibs.

Jason McCrindle was not in the Swifts dugout after his departure from the club last midweek. (Image: David Wardle.)

They fell behind in the 18th minute in this encounter against Blackburn, who then scored two goals in three minutes before the break to establish a lead that wouldn't be overcome.

Finlay Kerr netted in the final minute for Swifts, who have four points from the same number of matches played.

The Swifts lost their first game without McCrindle in charge. (Image: David Wardle.)

Heriot-Watt University 1 Crossgates Primrose 1

PRIMROSE boss Alan Campbell said he had "mixed emotions" after his side shared the spoils with Heriot-Watt University in this First Division clash.

Cammy Bell's well-taken goal early in the second half, countered by a Josh Wishart penalty, meant that it was a point apiece at the Oriam.

Crossgates are now three games unbeaten in all competitions since their opening day defeat at Newtongrange Star, and Campbell commented: "There were mixed emotions after the game.

"I was pleased with the performance and content with the result. I thought over the piece a draw was a fair result.

"In the last 15-20 minutes, it was a good watch. We were maybe a wee bit disappointed we didn't find a winner. We had a couple of opportunities but didn't quite find the final touch.

"For a neutral, it would've been a good game to watch, with ebbs and flows and chances at both ends. Perhaps the only surprise was that it ended 1-1!

"I don't think there are many teams that will go there and win. It's a very difficult place to go and they are very well drilled. It might end up looking like a point gained later in the season.

"I'm really pleased with the progress that we've made so far."

Following that match, Crossgates completed the signing of midfielder, Craig Watt, who has been involved in their squad in recent weeks.

Ormiston Primrose 0 Oakley United 4

PETER GOLDIE was delighted with his players after a much-changed Oakley United side eased into the second round of the Alex Jack Cup.

The visitors maintained their promising start to the new season by comfortably seeing off Third Division Ormiston Primrose to remain unbeaten in all competitions.

Scott Bruce gave the O's a 20th minute lead, which was doubled three minutes after the break by Yannis Iliopoulos.

Ryan Yapoudjianmade it 3-0 in the 65th minute, before adding his second, and Oakley's fourth, with six minutes to go.

"We changed the squad up on Saturday due to so many games in quick succession," Goldie said.

"We did, however, want to keep the momentum going, so to go away from home, score four and come away with a clean sheet, was excellent to see, considering the amount of changes made.

"We created loads of chances on Saturday and, to be honest, should have been out of sight in the first half. I don't think our goalkeeper had any saves to make due to a solid defensive display.

"We went in 1-0 at half-time and we spoke to the lads about the importance of taking our chances when they came, as we squandered a few good chances in the first 45.

"The second goal two minutes into the second half secured the tie for us, and what a goal it was - a 25-yard volley into the top corner, already a goal of the season contender from Yannis Iliopoulos.

"We then freshened it up for the last 30 minutes and the boys that went on didn't disappoint, with Ryan Yapoudjian scoring two great goals, his first a rocket from the edge of the box into the far away corner.

"It's been a good start to the season for us and there is lots of competition for places, which is keeping the standards high. Boys coming into the squad from the bench are pushing for a start, and that keeps the boys in the starting 11 on their toes.

"That's something we have missed until now in my time in charge, to be honest."

Oakley were scheduled to play Harthill Royal in a Second Division match last night (Wednesday).

Saturday's fixtures (kick-offs 2.30pm): East of Scotland League, First Division: Crossgates Primrose v Preston Athletic. South Challenge Cup, first round: Inverkeithing Hillfield Swifts v Lesmahagow, Wishaw v Oakley United (2pm).