East Kilbride 1

Gala Fairydean Rovers 0

Tommy Cass at K Park

EAST Kilbride won their 24th game in a row on Saturday to reach the third round of the SFA South Challenge Cup – but they had to work hard for the victory.

Only a brilliant save by keeper Jacob Keane denied David Bonnar a late yet deserved equaliser.

Kilby had opened the scoring on 15 minutes from a terrific Adam Strachan freekick, after Bonnar foul 25 yards from goal.

The stunning strike brought elation to the large home support and gave Gala keeper Kieran Wright little chance.

But just a minute later the Fairydean Rovers almost levelled. Dean McColm’s freekick was met by the head of George Windram but the ball flew inches over the crossbar.

Gala continued to press after the break with Stuart Noble forcing a good save from Keane.

At the other end Joao Victoria beat the offside trap only to see his powerful effort tipped over by Wright.

In an open and entertaining tie both teams continued to attack with Taylor Hope, and Lee Stephen bursting forward at ever opportunity.

And only that last minute save from Keane denied Gala taking the match into extra time as he pushed Bonnar’s effort onto the bar.

Manager Steven Noble was pleased with his team’s performance. He said: “We were unlucky not to at least take the game into extra time.

“It was an end to end game and I’m happy with the effort and the performance.

“They are probably the best team in our league just now and we matched them all over the pitch.”

Gala Fairydean Rovers. K Wright, L Stephen, G Windram, T Hope, B Miller, D Smith, D Bonnar, D McColm, S Paliczka, D Sutherland & S Noble. Subs S Nicol, K Collins, A Watson & K Waugh.