Report

Magpies slump to defeat

The indifferent form that Magpies had been going through this season continued with a high-energy but toothless performance against the 'auld enemy Frontline. These encounters are never without drama or contention and this match was no different. 

Frontline are a quick paced team and are particularly dangerous on the counter-attack. This was evident from the off with the Magpies back-line continually being tested and the midfield three being stretched; Frontline always seeming to have the free man in the middle of the park.

Last ditch tackles and saves kept the scores even and Magpies eventually started to carve some chances of their own. Moriarty breaking through the Frontline backline following a clever lob from Alan Small was accompanied by several dangerous set-pieces from the visitors.

However, Frontline made the breakthrough when their spritely forward got the better of Golding, fresh back from injury, and slotted the ball home.

The second half was a closer affair with the Magpies midfield being able to compete better with the busy Frontline opposition however it was the mistakes at the back that continued to haunt Magpies.

First possession was lost and Frontline efficiently capitalised and then a goal-kick was not met and their forward lobbed the on-rushing keeper.

As a contest this was effectively over although Small managed to grab a consolation late on following a goalkeeper error.

The performance was strong by Magpies but they continue to struggle to deliver end-product whilst continuing to be far too easy to score against; a dangerous combination.