Match Report: St Andrews Utd 1–2 Jeanfield Swifts
The Clayton Caravan Recreation Ground – Attendance: 160

St Andrews United were narrowly defeated under the lights at The Clayton Caravan Recreation Ground, as Jeanfield Swifts claimed all three points on a chilly autumn evening. Despite a committed and skilful performance from the home side, a brace from Archie Campbell proved decisive in a competitive and entertaining encounter.

Jeanfield began the match on the front foot, moving the ball confidently and forcing Saints to defend deep during the opening minutes. The visitors’ early pressure did not translate into clear chances, however, and once St Andrews United settled into their rhythm, the hosts began to play some slick, incisive football of their own.

Regan Lumsden went close with an early effort before combining neatly with Scott Dunn, whose header was well held by former United goalkeeper Ben Swinton. At the other end, Allan Fleming (sponsored by MPG-ISO) remained alert in the home goal, dealing comfortably with a couple of crosses and long-range attempts.

As the half wore on, Saints began to impose themselves more consistently. A wonderful run from Lumsden down the left created an opportunity for Dunn, while Greig Spence (sponsored by Life Sport Travel) showcased his quality with a driving solo move that carved open the Jeanfield defence. His clever cut-back found Lumsden, whose shot was deflected behind for a corner. Swinton tipped over the resulting delivery, but Jeanfield responded immediately with a swift counter-attack that led to the opening goal.

After Murray Binnie’s initial strike was blocked, Archie Campbell reacted quickest to fire home the rebound from close range, giving the visitors the lead midway through the first half. The goal gave Jeanfield confidence, and they finished the half strongly, with Fleming producing two superb saves to deny Shaun Simpson and Patrick Brown. There was still time for one final Saints opportunity before the break, as Kyle Sneddon’s (sponsored by Dave Stewart) header from a Ryan McManus (sponsored by Bucks Bar) free kick flew narrowly over the bar.

Jeanfield continued to enjoy good spells of possession after the interval, though their efforts on goal were largely from distance. Tony Gillan picked up a yellow card for a mistimed challenge before manager Greg Shields introduced Ross Cunningham (sponsored by Crombie Builders) in place of Dunn — a tactical change that quickly paid off.

Just two minutes later, Lumsden brought the scores level with a terrific 20-yard drive that fizzed low into the corner of the net on the hour mark. The equaliser energised the hosts, who began to dominate proceedings, playing confidently through midfield and creating a series of promising openings.

However, Jeanfield remained a constant threat on the counter, and Fleming had to make a fine save to deny Binnie once more. The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when a cross from the right found its way to Campbell, who poked home his second of the night from close range to restore Jeanfield’s lead.

That goal deflated the home side’s momentum, though Saints continued to fight hard in the closing stages. Sneddon made a crucial block late on, while McManus and Spence were both cautioned as frustration began to show.

With McManus filling in at centre-back due to a lack of defensive options, his presence was missed in midfield, but there were still plenty of positives to take from a spirited display. Despite the result, Saints once again demonstrated their ability to play fluent, attractive football and will look to build on those encouraging signs in the coming fixtures.

Goals: Lumsden (60’)
Bookings: Gillan, McManus, Spence
Attendance: 160

View the image gallery HERE (pics by Graham Hutchison)