Despite having beaten Coldstream 6 – 0 at Millfield in November, the Hi Hi’s knew that they would face a difficult ninety minutes at Home Park and so it proved. Only goalkeeper Dale Cornet was missing from Scott Bonar’s squad and Seamus Russell made his first start since November following an ankle injury. It was obvious from the start that Coldstream would fight for everything and they packed their defence in the early stages. Most of the first half play was in the home half but the Streamers looked dangerous on the break and it took a goal line header from Ross King to keep the scores level. The visitors, backed by a big support, failed to create any clear cut openings on a tight pitch, with Hill and McGarry failing to test goalkeeper Turnbull.
Coldstream took some confidence from their first half showing and were more of an attacking force after the break. But not for the first time this season, the Hi Hi’s defence was resolute and restricted the home side to few chances. The turning point in the match came in the 69th minute when Auriemma was tugged in the box as he rounded a defender and referee Falconer pointed to the spot. Shaun Hill sent goalkeeper Turnbull the wrong way as he netted what proved to be the winner. Minutes later a tremendous long range effort from full back Szemis rattled the bar before being scrambled clear. A rash challenge in midfield left the home side with ten men and that really ended what had been a really good challenge from the Home Park side. Haddington can expect to face similar challenges as they attempt to gain promotion. Forthcoming visits to the likes of Arniston and Dalkeith will require battling performances and the double header against league leaders Leith Athletic will almost certainly decide the destination of the league title.
