15's Suffer Déjà Vu

 

Ayr 15's entertained Partick Thistle at a cold Prestwick Academy on Sunday and talk about deja vu, this was pretty much a replay of their first encounter of the season with Ayr coming from behind twice only for Thistle to draw level with the last kick of the game.

 

Ayr where probably the better side over the 90 minutes and definately created more chances, but this Thistle side never know when they are beaten and fought all the way to the final whistle.

 

The first period was an even affair, Thistle took the lead with a 25 yard free kick which flew in over James Harts head. Steven McCarrison and Ryan Nisbett both had half chances to equalize but failed to find the net. Ayr where the stronger team in the second period and dominated possession. A great run and cross from Jason Filippi flew in off a defenders head for a well deserved equaliser. However against the run of play Thistle scored again when a speculative 35 yarder caught out James Hart and put Thistle ahead.

 

The third period was the same as the second with Ayr in control and passing the ball around well. Ryan Nisbett put Ayr back level with a cool finish after being put through on goal. McCarrison, Forrest, Nisbett and Anderson all had decent chances to put Ayr ahead but found a Thistle keeper in top form. Ayr finally got the goal their play deserved when Mick Wardrope scrambled the ball home from close range for his first of the season. 

 

Ryan Nisbett then had another two one on ones with the keeper but again Ayrs luck was out. Thistle came back strong in the last five minutes and drew level with a minute to go when a cross from the right caught out a sleeping Ayr defence for the Thistle striker to stab the ball home. Ayr had one final chance from Forrest after a great run but again the Thistle keeper stood strong.

 

Coach Neil Duffy said afterwards, "Overall a pleasing performance against a strong and physical Thiste side. On another day Ayr had enough chances to win the game but full credit to Thistle for fighting all the way to the end in what was an entertaining game."

 

Photo of Wardrope please.