Airdrie (4) v. Stenhousemuir (0) - 21/2/04

AIRDRIE UTD

Airdrie produced their best football of the season in scintillating fashion after the impeccably observed minutes silence for Airdrie legend Steve Cooper. The former Diamonds centre forward would have been impressed by the quality of Airdrie's forward play as chance after chance was created by the twin wing threat of Willie McLaren and Jerome Varielle. Indeed if these two inspired wingers had a centre forward like Cooper to aim their crosses at today it wouldn't just be Varielle that scored four. Jerome had to wait till midway through the half to open his account and proceeded to knock in another three in a whirlwind ten minute spell for a four-nil half time lead.

The big question mark over Airdrie was how they'd cope without Alan McManus. In came last year's surprise package, Scott Wilson, but he's been disappointing this season so far. Not after today's show. Up againt giant frontman Andy Brown, big Scott dominated his opponent, held the shape of the defence well, formed a good understanding with McGowan, used the ball well, and provided a threat at all the corner. Indeed he not only contributed to the third, but he had a few other chances cleared off the line. Elsewhere McGowan had a fine game in central defence, full backs Christie and Lovering continued to impress, Dunn worked extremely hard in midfield, and the front two of Coyle and Gow worked their socks off again, pulling Stenny all over the place. Star of the show again, Vareille excepted, was teenage 'sensation' Willie McLaren. Forming a splendid understanding with Gow and especially Dunn, the young left winger is central to everything. His pace and trickery is one thing, but his consistent delivery of fine crosses is creating chance after chance. Unfortunately, Paul Murphy and Gerry McKenna took it in turns to kick lumps out of the kid, and it's time the horrendous officials we get provide better protection for this classy kid who is a 100% genuine talent.

Don't go thinking the second half was a poor affair because there were no goals. Airdrie continued to bombard the Stenny goal with Dunn, McLaren and Vareille leading the charge. The customary stonewall penalty was turned down as usual and Willie McCulloch was seen putting in his overtime claim as he was driven to near exhaustion with the Airdrie onslaught. McCulloch had a fine second half, making fine saves from Gow, Coyle, McLaren and Jerome. And Scott Wilson, Dunn, Lovering.....

A much better display from Airdrie and thankfully enough to calm the frayed nerves of the support. Not only was the margin and overall display impressive but a few factors augered well for the run-in. Scott Wilson's display provides evidence there is quality depth in the squad. Will McManus have to wait his turn on his return? Up front too, McKeown and Roberts looked sharp when given a 20 minute run out. With Morton and Hamilton dropping points it really is GAME ON!!!