Late Matheson Double Sees Lovat Retain The Lovat Cup. | |
03 January 2011 A late double from Greg Matheson earned Lovat a 2-2 draw with Beauly at Braeview Park on Monday 3 January 2011 which meant they retained the Lovat Cup. Lovat went into the game as Lovat Cup holders. The match was not played in 2010 meaning Lovat held the trophy from their 2-1 triumph in 2009. Lovat had the best of the early exchanges on a cold day but they were unable to convert their dominance into goals. However Beauly fought their way into the game and they took the lead after 23 minutes when a shot from distance from full centre David MacLean flew into the net. Beauly took this lead into the break and the game really started to spice up in the second half. Lovat had a great chance to level on 59 minutes when they were awarded a penalty by referee Deek Cameron. However James MacPherson’s spot hit flew wide of target. Beauly were on top at this stage with David MacLean dominating the centre line. Lovat had introduced Tom Smith into their starting line-up and he produced a terrific display in defence. The Beauly crowd went wild on 67 minutes as Marc McLaughlin put them 2-0 ahead following a free hit at the edge of the D and they looked to have one hand on the Lovat Cup. There was a flashpoint moments later when Beauly substitute David Neilson and Lovat’s Drew Howie clashed and referee Cameron was left with little choice but to red card both players. Lovat got the lift they needed on 79 minutes when Greg Matheson pulled a goal back to make it 2-1. This set up a grandstand finish. Beauly had already shown a great desire to lift the Lovat Cup whilst Matheson’s goal gave the Balgate men a real lift. As the game swung from end to end, Greg Matheson scored his and Lovat’s second to make it 2-2 just moments from time. Referee Deek Cameron played several minutes injury time which tested Lovat’s nerves but they held on to retain the trophy as holders. However Beauly’s determination contributed greatly to what was a thrilling game. |