Kinross came up against a dynamic Peebles side who were fresh off the back of a resounding 10-0 win the previous week. The result masks what was a thrilling and enjoyable game in glorious November sunshine at the Kinross Astro, With a much more youthful team than the one the previous week (which looked at one point to have the youngest player being 46, until the welcome return of Andy Stevenson), the game was full of buzzing bodies charging about from both sides.
The first 15 minutes were very even with neither side able to capitalise on a handful of chances. Peebles then took the lead with a well taken opportunity from a communication mix up at the back (Lesson 1 for next week is definitely up the talking). Kinross then had several chances that seemed to favour the area around the goal rather than between the posts (Lesson 2 shooting practice needed, especially for the author...). Peebles then grabbed another with Sandy latching on to a looped bouncing ball to reverse baseball bat past the onrushing William. Chances continued to come and go with excellent running from Gav, Vince, Finn, Lewis and Chris in various combinations as the front 3. The experimental midfield setup seemed to benefit the play with plenty of 'meat' in the engine room which helped to frustrate Peebles skillful midfield trio. Alas continued pressure and some overlapping runs led to another goal for the away side before it was time for a rest.
The second half continued much as the first with good flowing hockey, helped by the excellent whistling from the two umpires. The game continued to flow with chances coming mainly for Kinross but a lack of the final killer pass or shot let us down. Finally, after about the 100th shot of the game, Vince Banks held the ball up in the D with his back to goal and unselfishly laid the ball back for Dave G to put the ball between the sticks. Chances of a Kinross fightback didn't last long with another Peebles goal, well taken by their No.9 at the back post before a 5th sealed the deal. Both sides left the field having enjoyed an enthralling 70 minutes and just avoided the downpour which was saved for Dunfermline Carnegie vs Stirling Wanderer's which followed (This Kinross Astro is a popular place to play it seems).
Next week: High flying Dunfermline City (away)
