Whitletts Victoria secured their place in the next round of the Scottish Communities Cup with a 3-0 victory over Colony Park at New Voluntary Park, although the win was overshadowed by an injury to new signing Cammy Ross.
The Whitletts side responded strongly after returning to winning ways, taking the lead after only 12 minutes. Ben Bradshaw cut in from the right and struck a low drive beyond the visiting goalkeeper to put the home team ahead.
Ross’s afternoon was cut short as the match took a worrying turn for the hosts. The new signing suffered an injury and was subsequently taken to hospital.
Whitletts manager Kevin Kelly said the club had been looking forward to having Ross involved and would continue to support him while awaiting further information about the extent of the injury.
“It’s a shame because we were really looking forward to having Cammy. We’ll keep in touch with him and we’ll look after him. We hope it's not too extensive.”
Whitletts hold firm before pulling clear
Colony Park applied pressure as the first half continued, searching for an equaliser. However, Whitletts kept their advantage through the defensive work of Ross Fisher and Frazer McMillan, supported by goalkeeper Evan Currie, and led 1-0 at half-time.
The hosts doubled their lead just a minute after the restart. Ross’s replacement, Kyle Good, delivered a free kick that evaded the Colony Park defence and goalkeeper Macleod.
The second goal appeared to drain momentum from the visitors and allowed Whitletts to take control. Their third arrived in the 71st minute, when substitute Michael Moffat converted a cushioned volley into the far corner.
Moffat’s finish followed a well-timed run and cross from Jordon Boyd, completing the scoring and confirming Whitletts’ progress in the cup.
Next fixture at Maybole
Kelly praised the team’s performance after the final whistle, particularly the way they moved the ball during the second half.
“Over the moon, we moved the ball much better in the second half. Overall, we’re in the next round of the cup. I’m very pleased with the players and proud of them.”
Whitletts are due to make the short trip to South Ayrshire rivals Maybole on Saturday, September 26. The match will be played at Ladywell Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 2pm.
Maybole are described as currently bottom of the West of Scotland Football League First Division, having lost all six of their matches so far.