The Hi Hi’s kept in touch with Conference A pacesetters, Leith Athletic and Kennoway Star Hearts, when they picked up maximum points from two away matches.
Haddington made the long trip to sunny St Andrews last Saturday not really knowing what to expect as the Fifers were going through a turbulent time after manager Charlie King left the club a few weeks ago. Managerless St Andrews produced a stuffy performance but two first half goals put the visitors in control and they never relinquished their grip on the game. Ali Simpson scored the opening goal early on with a near chipped effort, and a foul on Shaun Hill saw the same player score from the penalty spot. The only other goal came midway through the second half when Seamus Russell rounded off a good move with a close range finish.
The Millfield side expected a sterner challenge at Paties Road on Tuesday evening as their hosts Edinburgh United had recorded a fine 3 – 0 victory at Thornton the previous Saturday. Both Cammy Watson and Euan Watson returned to the starting line up and the Hi Hi’s took an early lead when full back Corey Robertson found the net with a spectacular left foot effort against his former club. Edinburgh hit back forcing numerous corners but the Haddington defence stood firm. The visitors doubled their lead early in the second half when King and Auriemma set up McGarry for a cool finish. The Hi Hi’s threatened to extend their lead and Hill and Auriemma both came close. However it was Edinburgh who scored the next goal and threw themselves a lifeline. A questionable foul was awarded against Robertson and Swanson caught Cornet out at his near post with a long range effort. The home side looked resurgent but Haddington dug in but a quickfire double from Gabri Auriemma put the result beyond doubt. Manager Scott Bonar sent on substitutes Hutchison, Subasic, Harris and Neilson to see out the game.
