Kelty Hearts boss Michael Tidser delighted to see side sink Annan

KELTY boss Michael Tidser was pleased to see his side return to winning ways as they strolled to a three nil win against Annan.

His side produced two first half goals and one in the second half to take all three points after suffering two defeats back to back in previous weeks.

Having rued chances missed in the games against Alloa and Cove Rangers, Tidser was pleased to see his side work hard and take their goalscoring opportunities.

“I think over the piece we deserved to win it. We were really good at spells, brave, the game got a bit scrappy in between but that that happens at this level.

Michael Tidser watches on from the bench as Kelty netted a 3-0 win over Annan Athletic. (Image: David Wardle)

“I thought we were really good, well worthy of three points. Three goals, three points, a clean sheet , what more could I ask for? Loads of positives to take so really pleased with the lads and it is a good victory.

“A clean sheet was so important. We started the season really well and lost our way a wee bit. We were still playing well - the Cove game here, we played really well, we lost 3-1, we played really well, lost one nil, so to get a clean sheet today I am delighted for the defenders and the group.

“Sometimes you need to soak up a bit of pressure and I am just pleased it came off.”

The first half saw chances taken and goals from Scott Mercer and Lewis Moore gave them a good foundation to build on for the second half.

Annan had the first effort on goal after just seven minutes when Aidan Smith hit a shot but the ball was collected by Ruairidh Adams.

Brody Paterson in possession in Kelty's victory over Annan. (Image: David Wardle) A minute later, it was Kelty to advance when Moore whipped in a cross which Annan player boss managed to intercept and put the ball out for a corner.

With just over 10 minutes on the clock, Kelty were ahead. Plater boss Michael Tidser delivered a corner which Scott Mercer rose to nod into the back of the net.

Craig Johnston was next to cause some danger when he whipped in a cross which looked destined to find one of several teammates in the box however it was put out for a corner.

On 26 minutes, Kelty doubled their lead. Scott Williamson did well to win the ball at the edge of the box from Rhys Breen, who joined Annan from Dunfermline this week on loan.

Scott Williamson who scored Kelty's third goal in their win over Annan Athletic. (Image: David Wardle) He pulled the ball back to Lewis Moore who calmly turned and teed the ball past Jamie Smith.

Williamson could have got himself on the scoresheet five minutes before the break when he found himself with just the Annan goalie to beat however his effort went wide.

The visitors had a chance minutes later when the ball was curled into the box but it came nicely to the safe hands of Adams.

Lewis Moore, who looked dangerous throughout, caused more problems for Annan soon after the break. He put Williamson through out wide and his cross was cleared high over the bar for a corner.

Williamson had a half chance just after 60 minutes when the ball came at an awkward angle in the box. He managed to bring the ball down but was only able to touch the ball wide.

Ross Cunningham attempts to make his way through the Annan defence. (Image: David Wardle) On 68 minutes, Kelty made it three after good link up play between Brody Paterson and Ross Cunningham resulted in a corner. It was Cunningham who directed the set piece towards the front post where Williamson was on hand to squeeze the ball into the net.

The visitors found them down to ten men with just eight minutes to go when captain Tommy Muir was given his marching orders.

He stopped Moore in his tracks as he was speeding down the wing but the challenge was late and left referee George Calder with no option to show red.

Ref George Calder issues a red card to Annan's Tommy Muir. (Image: David Wardle)

In the closing minutes, Kelty could have made it four. The ball was cleared by keeper Smith and came to Cunningham who chipped over the keeper but also over the bar.

In the dying minutes, Tam O‘Ware turned defence into attack and made his way up the field before playing in Cunningham whose effort was well saved.

Kelty Hearts

Adams, Paterson, O’Ware, Johnston, Cunningham, Tidser (Owens 69), Williamson (Cole 69), Mercer (Thomas 86), Moore (Bryce 86), Cleall-Harding, Allan.

Subs: Adamson, Miller, Hobbs.

Goals Mercer (11), Moore (26), Williamson (68)

Yellow card: O’Ware

Annan Athletic

Smith, Muir, Breen, McGowan, Smith, Goss, Muir, Fleming (Stevenson 65), Lennon (Quitongo 45), Ross (Maxwell 45), Gibson.

Subs: Fleming, Dixon, Zaid,Kilsby, Barnes, Wood.

Red card: Muir

Referee: George Calder

Attendance: 369