Ayr edged a five goal thriller at Prestwick.The home team started well, looking comfortable in possession and moving the ball well, so it was a surprise when Ayr went a goal behind after a failed clearance resulted in a good strike from the edge of the box finding the back of the net.
The home side picked up and levelled soon after, when a Kelly through ball found Scott Aitken who finished coolly. The visitors restored their lead when a free kick delivered into the box was bundled in from close range. That ended the first half scoring.
The second half was played at a high tempo, with chances for both sides, but it was Ayr who levelled, when good hold up play by Scott Aitken found Campbell, who cut inside and fired home with his left foot. The game never looked like finishing a draw though, as both teams chased a winner, with Ross County going close only to be thwarted by a fine Kinniburgh save and substitute Ian Aitken going close for Ayr with a header that went wide. Ayr sealed the points in the last minute, when hard work from Campbell saw him dispossess his opponent and play the ball to Kelly, who threaded a pass to Ian Aitken who slotted the ball under the County keeper for the winner.
Coach comments:
With three of the 19s squad involved with the first team on Sunday and numerous injuries and suspensions, this was a chance for a few boys to get involved and get playing time. The performance was decent in spells, passing well and creating chances. We played rather nervously at times in possesion, which we need to eradicate and show more composure on the ball. But we also had plenty of goal attempts
through good play which was pleasing. Overall a good performance and result with plenty of positives but also room for improvement.
Player of the match: Scott Aitken
Report by: Tom Robertson
