Queen's Park 16s Squad

Monday 3rd August 2009

Kilmarnock v Queen's Park

The 16s continued their pre-season build up with their toughest game to date, away to SPL side Kilmarnock. After some solid performances already in pre-season the boys were looking forward for a confidence building result.

The match began at a frantic pace, with both teams struggling to settle into a passing rhythm on a lively pitch. Kilmarnock enjoyed the bulk of the early possession but failed to cause any serious problems for the Queen's defence.

The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute, when a defensive clearance by Queen's centre half, Ryan Moore, caught out the Kilmarnock defence and a powerful run by striker, Tyler McGuigan saw him run through on goal and lob the advancing Kilmarnock keeper. This gave Queen's the lift they needed and they began to get a grip of the midfield.

It was some slick passing and an angled through ball from Chris Gebbie which led to Queen's second goal. His through ball found Tyler wide on the right hand side of the box and his driven cross was handled by the Kilmarnock defender. McGuigan stepped up and confidently slotted the ball past the Kilmarnock keeper.

With just 5 minutes to go before half-time Kilmarnock were awarded a penalty which was dispatched to open their scoring.

A total of 8 changes were made in the second half to ensure all the boys were getting sufficient pitch time. These changes appeared to unsettle Queen's and very quickly they conceded two goals. Despite losing the lead Queen's continued to play their passing game and were getting some joy using the width of the pitch.

After some sustained pressure Queen's got the equaliser. A skillful run down the right by sub Ryan Bennett led to a free kick outside the Kilmarnock box. The delivery from the left foot of Andy Robertson was pinpoint and after some great movement in the box, Tyler McGuigan flicked the ball into the net at the near post.

The game ended all square and the Queen's coached commented 'This was a good test for the Queen's boys with a lot of positives taken from the performance'.

The pre-season games keep coming. Next up is Partick Thistle, St Mirren then Rangers as the 16s complete their preparations for the up coming season.