Spartans’ derby win kicks off league

Spartans took the honours in the Edinburgh derby on the first weekend of the new Lowland League as Jack Beesley’s superb lob, ten minutes into the second half, secured a 1-0 win against Edinburgh City at Meadowbank, writes Neil McGlade.

It was a game of few opportunities in front of goal, particularly in the opening 45, but the visitors upped the tempo and were rewarded when Beesley’s clever effort found the far corner from the edge of the penalty area. Substitute Keith McLeod was shown a straight red for Spartans near the end for an alleged elbow on an opponent, just moments after entering the field.

Elsewhere, a seven-goal thriller at Pennypit saw visiting side Dalbeattie Star edge out hosts Preston Athletic 4-3.

Whitehill Welfare also found the net on four occasions as they defeated Gala Fairydean Rovers 4-2 at Feguson Park.

Forthbank was the venue for the University of Stirling to kick off their league campaign with a 2-1 victory over East 
Kilbride, and Vale of Leithen kept a clean-sheet with a 2-0 triumph over Gretna 2008 at Victoria Park.

Selkirk and Threave Rovers played out a 1-1 draw at Yarrow Park.