Carnie can celebrate as Thistle get first win in the bag against Tynecastle

“We passed the ball well and were particularly impressive in the middle of the park,” said Lothian manager Grant Carnie. “We changed our system a wee bit and we were able to get our players on the ball. Overall,  I was very happy with our  performance.”

Adam Perry gave Lothian the lead when he was played in by Ross Elliot and rounded the Tynecastle goalkeeper. Jamie Butler equalised for Tynecastle before Elliot put Lothian  ahead and then netted his  second to ensure Lothian’s win.

Edinburgh City, after their comprehensive victory against Shotts Bon accord at the  weekend, were brought down to earth when they were  beaten 3-1 by Vale of Leithen at  Meadowbank Stadium.

Danny Noon edged Vale ahead before Andy Howat equalised early in the second half. Chris Gray then nudged Vale in front before Martin Cairney secured Vale’s win with a third goal.

The current East of Scotland League champions, Stirling University, again intimated their intentions for the coming season with a comfortable 6-2 win against their fellow students from Edinburgh.

Lee Nichol gave Stirling an early lead, then Chris Geddes added a second before a Jason Atkins own goal reduced the deficit. Geddes then missed a penalty before he added two more for his hat-trick. Paul Sludden and Creag Robertson netted further goals for Stirling, while Dan Ward scored for  Edinburgh.

“A win is a win and it was good to get three points although Edinburgh University were short of players and we could not have picked a better time to play them,” said Stirling captain Atkins. “They will get stronger and will beat teams later in the season.”