Davidson's double is a real tonic for Albion

Published on 25/08/2003 01:00

STIRLING Albion striker Ryan Davidson is quickly repaying the faith shown in him by manager Allan Moore, netting two goals in Saturday’s 5-1 win over East Stirlingshire.

Davidson, 21, who was out on loan to Alloa last season, was disappointed to be released by Hearts at the end of the season, but he is quickly showing he knows where the goals lie.

After the shock of losing the opener when Dougie Tolwart put Shire ahead, Davidson headed a 38th-minute equaliser. And when Shire defender Kevin McCann was sent off after clashing with Davidson, the striker knocked in his second before the interval. During the second half, Stuart Devine added a spectacular third and Paul Hay and Scott McLean completed the scoring.

Peterhead are setting the pace at the top after their 3-2 win over Highland rivals Elgin City. Manager Ian Wilson said: "We did not start last season well, and I am delighted it is so different this time with nine points from our three games."

Mark Yardley was again the man of the match as Albion Rovers kept up the chase with a 3-1 win over Queen’s park. Yardley opened the scoring, before David Farrell added the second and Jordan Smith got their third when they were down to ten men.

Cowdenbeath striker Graeme Brown led the way in their 3-1 win over Montrose, with Ian Morris and Craig Winter also on target.

Furious Gretna manager Rowan Alexander hit out after their 1-1 draw with Stranraer. New signing Mark Birch gave Gretna the lead, but Allan Grant drove in the equaliser.