Haddington travelled to West Lothian to meet Blackburn United in a Premier Division match at New Murrayfield Park last Saturday. The Hi Hi’s held a six point advantage over their opponents who were determined to close the gap on their visitors. The previous meeting at Millfield saw the Hi Hi’s come out on top in a close contest and another tight contest was expected. Blackburn made the best possible start when they caught their opponents cold in the first thirty seconds and an incisive move ended with Corey Robertson netting an unfortunate own goal. The visitors fought their way into the matches and created a number of good chances but found the home ‘keeper in inspired form. The deserved equaliser eventually arrived on the stroke of half time when skipper Auriemma cut in from the left and found the net with a neat finish.
The Hi Hi’s made most of the running in the second half with the home side mainly contained in their own half. The visitors took the lead in the 56th minute when goalkeeper Kelna took out Ali Simpson as they challenged for a high ball and the referee was left with little alternative than to award a penalty. Ross King sent Kelna the wrong way as he netted to the ‘keeper’s left. With Joe Tait in lively form, the Hi Hi’s tried to extend their lead but they almost conceded a late equaliser when there was an almighty scramble in the penalty area following a Blackburn corner. The ball was eventually cleared and the Hi Hi’s picked up three valuable points.
