Lowland League round-up: Civil Service Strollers inflict defeat on Chris Humphrey’s Gretna | Sore one for students
Humphrey, who is taking his first steps into management after hanging up his boots, watched as his players suffered a 3-0 opening-day defeat at a rain-sodden Raydale Park.
Civil enjoyed a bright start in testing conditions with Josh Morris forcing Gretna goalkeeper Cameron Copeland into an early save and Jack Downie screwing a shot narrowly wide from just inside the box.
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Hide AdThere was a slight delay at the start of the second half when referee Michael Williamson re-assessed the condition of the pitch after a small section of standing water had gathered inside one penalty area.
The opening goal arrived after 55 minutes when Scott Main’s flighted cross was headed home by skipper Mark McConnell.
Gary Jardine’s new-look squad increased their lead with 20 minutes remaining when midfielder Downie lifted the ball over the on-rushing keeper from 20-yards into an empty net.
Gretna were reduced to ten men in the closing stages when David Renyard picked up a second yellow card for violent conduct after kicking out at Main.
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Hide AdAnd Civil capitalised on their man advantage just moments later when Downie fired home from close range to notch his brace and seal a comfortable three points.
Edinburgh University suffered a disappointing 6-0 defeat at home to Caledonian Braves, formerly known as Edusport Academy, while Spartans’ game against Stirling University at Forthbank was postponed due to a waterlogged surface.