Derby defeat Thistle in last match

May 27 2009 by Andrew Weston, Wishaw Press

LAFA Premier League leaders Bellshill Derby defeated Overtown Thistle 4-2 in the Jags’ final match of the season last week.

Overtown started very well with Martin Speirs and Jamie Dickson looking lively up front.

Despite having a goal harshly ruled offside they took the lead with a superb volleyed goal from Jamie Dickson before Bellshill scored with a header just a minute later.

The game was swinging from end to end and Overtown were back in front on 37 minutes when Speirs scored from close range after good build-up play.

But Bellshill were back level within one minute once again after they scored with a well-placed shot from the edge of the box.

The second half was fiercely contested by both teams and with time running out Bellshill were fortunate when they took the lead with a wicked deflected goal 12 minutes from time that kept their title charge on track.

Overtown’s recent heavy schedule began to catch up with them and on 86 minutes Bellshill should have settled their nerves from the penalty spot but Shane Carr in Overtown’s goal made a fine save.

Bellshill had a nervous final few minutes as Overtown went in search of an equaliser but with the last kick of the ball Bellshill broke up field and the impressive James McAulay raced clear from the halfway line to round keeper Shane Carr and secure a 4-2 win.

Bellshill now just need to beat second-placed Woodhall to retain their title.

It has been a season of progress again for Overtown who finished a very creditable third in the league.

They will return to action in the pre-season Ronnie Shevlin tournament in August.

Meanwhile Woodhall Thistle comfortably beat Mossend 2-0 in the Patersons Trophies league cup final at Stonehouse Juniors’ Park last Friday night.