This match will go down in the Stranraer record books as their greatest ever winning margin against their arch local rivals Queens. Up until the 52 minute however there was little to indicate that such a winning margin was likely. Indeed the first half was devoid of any real action save for a couple of Stranraer efforts that shaved the woodwork.
The Queens team today saw a slight alteration to the formation, youngster Kevin Robison playing at the back along side Rowe and Aitken with Hodge and Stewart being asked to push forward down either side. Recent recruit John Dickson made his home debut and looked comfortable in his midfield role. Captain Steven Leslie also featured today but will miss the next three through suspension, although it was clear that his groin strain injury was causing him problems, hopefully his enforced lay off will allow him sufficient recuperation time. Up front Bryan Caldwell took the place of Charlie Adams who in turn had to be content with a place on the bench.
The defence had looked solid enough for the first 50 minutes or so until they decided to step back and watch as Andy Roddie ran across them until he had clear site of goal, as soon as he was in position he coolly slotted the ball into the net.
Rather than spur on Queens it appeared that Stranraer were injected with fresh energy and immediately took hold of the match. Just four minutes after the first goal came the goal of the match, the ball came across field to the right hand side and Andy Roddie was in a fine position to volley the ball straight back and into the net giving Hillcoat no chance.
The Doonhamers responded by making a double substitution and both Adams and Weir came on to replace Hodge and Dickson. Unfortunately this change had little effect with Queens midfield failing to create any openings for the front men who had the unenviable task of both creating and taking their chances today.
Stranraer increased their lead, much to the very obvious delight of ex-Queens boss Billy McLaren in, or mostly out of, the visitors dug-out, in the last twenty minutes with three goals.
In summary Queens today were thrashed by a very ordinary looking Stranraer side, the defeat leaves the Doonhamers rock bottom of Division Two, albeit on goal difference, and with real problems in the creativity department.
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