Spartans on course for title

Published on Sunday 17 May 2009 22:51

SPARTANS require just one more point from their last fixture against second-placed Dalbeattie Star to ensure their first East of Scotland League Premier Division title success since season 2004 after defeating rivals Edinburgh City 3-1.

Such is Spartans' superior goal difference that they can afford a defeat by up to a three-goal margin in their last game against Dalbeattie and still be crowned champions. A double from David Etale and a first-half strike from Omar Kader earned Spartans their win, while Jordan Hall netted for City.

Tynecastle, who had already gained promotion, won the First Division title with an emphatic 4-0 victory against fellow challengers Gretna 2008 who are now one of three teams who can join Tynecastle in the top flight next season. Paul Devlin, Steven McKenzie, Steven McCormack and Dean Summers were on target for Tynecastle.

Civil Service Strollers, having completed their fixtures, sit in second place although Gretna and Stirling University could both overtake them. The Strollers beat Eyemouth United 2-0 with goals from Craig Dickson and a trialist.

In the semi-finals of the League Cup, there were wins for Dalbeattie Star who defeated Vale of Leithen 2-1 with goals from Scott Milligan and Jack Steele. Preston Athletic travelled to Stirling University and beat the students 3-1 with strikes from Stuart Miller (2) and Matt Costello.