The Thistle Archive

Teams representing these clubs met at West Craigie Park yesterday in presence of a large number of spectators. The Glasgow team was nearly the same as played in Dundee a fortnight ago, whilst the Boys, from various causes, had to place five of their second eleven in the field. The ground was in rather better condition than on Thursday, but was still rather soft and muddy. The Partick Thistle had the ground in their favour during the first half, and from the start it was evident that the match would be a tight one. After the boys had had a look in the Thistle carried the ball down the field, and three minutes from the start captured the home citadel. The Boys pressed the Thistle pretty hard for some time after this, and some warm work was witnessed in front of the Partick goal. Numerous corners fell to the Boys, but, though well placed, the Thistle managed to keep their goal intact, and, breaking away, transferred operations to the other end, and the home goal was in turn besieged. The back division were equal to the calls made on them, and the scene of operations changed to midfield. Both teams now played grandly, and runs and counter runs were the order of the day. One side had as much of the game as the other, and no further scoring took place up to half-time. The second period was pretty much a repetition of the first, and was characterised by remarkably even play. The Boys showed greatly improved form in front of goal, and in about 15 minutes equalised the score by a combined rush. It looked as if the match would result in a draw, but one minute before the call of time the Thistle secured a lucky goal, which was scored after the goalkeeper had twice thrown out the ball. The Partick Thistle played their usual neat, passing game, and anything approaching rough play was conspicuous by its absence. The Boys showed something like their old form, and the game was a most enjoyable one alike to players and spectators. The 2d Eleven men deserve especial mention. Wishart kept a capital goal, and saved his charge very cleverly on at least two occasions when its downfall seemed almost a certainty. Low at half-back surprised everybody, and on yesterday’s form is certain of a place in the first. R. Donaldson in the centre and Walker on the right also showed up well, whilst Wynd, who was unexpectedly called upon, partnered Taylor very effectively.

Dundee Courier and Argus, Saturday, 3rd January, 1885

.