East Kilbride YM have picked up wins despite being reduced to 10 or nine men in three of their six matches this season. Manager Graeme Robertson admitted his side would make life much easier for themselves if they can cut out the red cards.
Third red card in six games
For the third time in six games, YM had to play with 10 men or fewer as they defeated West of Scotland Third Division side Glasgow United 2-0 on the road in the second round of the WOSFL Cup on Saturday, courtesy of first half goals from Ross McDonagh and Cammy McCulloch.
This week, it was Dan Boyle who saw red for denying a goal scoring opportunity early in the second half.
That came after YM defeated Vale of Leven 4-1 last week with nine men, following the sending off of striker Greg Miller and goalkeeper Kyle Miller. Prior to that, forward Andy Perrie was dismissed in the opening game of the West of Scotland Fourth Division season against Kello Rovers.
Manager praises character
Robertson told Lanarkshire Live Sport: “In three of our six games we have finished with either 10 men or nine men so it is not ideal but we are still getting results.
“If we could cut that out, it would be a lot better for us, but it shows the character.
“I have to say that, defensively, we are pretty strong and when we are going down to nine and 10 men, the guys are standing up really well to that extra pressure that comes with that.
“As a team, the boys are all fighting for each other and that is really good to see.
“Saturday was a great result, playing a team a division above us and away from home.
“The boys were really good all over the park and I don’t think anyone would argue that we got what we deserved, especially after playing with 10 men for 30 minutes and remaining pretty comfortable in the game.
“I don’t like criticising referees but I think once he has seen it back for himself, he’ll maybe admit that it maybe wasn’t the right decision. He has asked to see the video footage, but it is what it is.”
Cup action continues
More cup action awaits YM this weekend when they host Lochee Harp in the first round of the Scottish Communities Cup.
Robertson added: “Lochee are a team we don’t know much about.
“They are a well-established club in the Midlands League but it will probably be a chance for us to rotate the squad a bit because there are a few guys who haven’t really had a game. It might be an opportunity for them.”
Kick-off at Kirktonholme is 2.30pm.
