Stunning victory in Auchinleck lion's den reignites Midlothian challenge

Published on Monday 8 December 2008 08:41

MIDLOTHIAN emerged from the doldrums of a damaging home defeat to boost their a last-gasp qualifying challenge with an away victory over Auchinleck in the 'A' section of the indoor bowls Premier League.

The Ayrshire giants were undefeated at home this season which makes Midlothian's 77-64 triumph all the more remarkable.

Wins for the rinks skipped by Sandy Knight, Colin Walker and Willie Rankin reflected a team performance which was both solid and strong spirited – and all this without the services of David Peacock.

"The ups and downs of our results this season are driving me crazy on the sidelines but this was a good day and a great display that gives us a sniff of a chance of catching Blantyre on the three-match run-in," said Midlothian team boss Frank Gray.

"Blantyre look almost home and dry with a four point lead over us but we play them next and at Dalkeith so a win for us would produce intense pressure especially as they are still to visit Auchinleck."

The opening seven-end phase hinted at a shock as Midlothian edged it 26-24. Suitably encouraged, they pushed on to open up a 13-shot gap to 34-21 on the second phase. The third and final phase saw Midlothian face an Auchinleck counter-attack but the visitors battled and limited the damage to a 19-17 setback so they could savour the overall victory.