Paddy’s a hero in war of the Roses

Nov 12 2009 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

Paddy’s a hero in war of the Roses

LINLITHGOW took all three points in the war of the Roses which was the Super League’s match of the day.

Man-of-the-match Paddy Flannery stole the show on his return to Prestonfield in a Linlithgow shirt as he faced the club he won the title with last season.

In a deal which will also take Linlithgow defender Mark Robertson back to Bonnyrigg, Flannery found himself facing his old club only a couple of weeks since he slammed a hat-trick past them while on trial for Camelon.

Many Linlithgow supporters were shocked when he turned out in the Maroon shirt but, come the end of the 90 minutes, they were well pleased with his performance.

Bonnyrigg were dominant in the first half, with Linlithgow struggling, however, they were shocked into action when the visitors took the lead in the 50th minute through Sean Polizcka.

Flannery had other ideas and only five minutes later Linlithgow were level. Tommy Coyne’s shot was blocked but Flannery pounced to level the contest.

Then with Linlithgow on a high, he provided the winner when his wicked cross fell in to the path of sub Steve Manson and he slammed home the goal which turned out to be the winner.

It was a terrific return for the prodigal son, who started the season still registered with Bonnyrigg but had trial spells at Bo’ness, Whitburn and Edinburgh United, as well as Camelon.

A delighted Flannery said after the game: “I was almost at Camelon on Thursday to sign for them but when I got the phone call asking me back, there was only one answer. It’s great to be back and finally have my season settled.

“Linlithgow are a great club and I think I’ve found my feet already.

“It’s going to be tough when Gordon Herd is fit again but we need all of our strikers if we want silverware this season.”

Linlithgow boss Dave Baikkie hoped the result could kick-start their season.

He added: “Flannery is a top striker and that’s what we’ve been lacking.

“In the first-half, we weren’t at the races. We had a good talking to the players at the break and it worked although we gave them a start.

“We’ve had some terrible injury worries since the season started but, hopefully, now we can restart our campaign.”

Linlithgow: Pinkowski, McEowan, Tyrrell, Donnelly, Wilson, Bradley, Livingstone, Hogg, Flannery, Coyne, McArthur. Subs: McLennan, Kelly, Manson, Parkin, Vicki, McDermott, Coyle.

Bonnyrigg: Logan, Caine, Noble, Dunn, Ritchie, Hamilton, Grady, Morrice, Howat, McKenna, Polizcka. Subs: McCaul, Brigain, Burrell, Cameron, Reid, Combe.