YFS
Airdrie survived a late onslaught from Moorlands Boys Club to reach the semi-finals of the SYFA Cup.
A goal early in the second half from Ross Dunbar was enough to see the Diamonds edge a closely fought encounter.
The game was played at a frantic pace and almost saw a goal in the opening two minutes. A ball played over the top found Moorlands’ Aaron McNeil wide on the left who hit a spectacular dipping volley, only for Airdrie keeper Tony Sharkey to tip it onto the crossbar.
Moorlands struck the bar again just minutes later, when Sean Monaghan shifted the ball onto his left foot and fired a shot from 20 yards against the woodwork.
Both teams struggled to keep hold of the ball and find a rhythm to their game, with some tasty challenges flying in. But Moorlands continued to create the better chances. This time striker Cameron Ralston dragged a shot just wide on 16 minutes after a good run by full-back Aiden McElhinney.
Airdrie managed to stem the tide thanks to some brilliant defending and combative midfield play, limiting the Uddingston side to fewer chances as the half wore on and creating a few of their own.
After 38 minutes striker Declan Wood showed good skill to beat two defenders and get sight of goal, only to have his shot blocked at the last second by the Moorlands’ defence.