YFS
Hamilton moved seven points clear at the top of the SPFL Development League, with a fine 2-1 win against St. Mirren at New Western Park. The Buddies gave a good account of themselves in the second half, but Accies first half performance and two goals, was enough to see them over the line.
With last week’s return of Andy Ryan to the side, Accies now welcomed back defender Michael Devlin after his seven month spell out through injury. Accies went ahead after a great strike from Ryan Tierney, then doubled their advantage just before half time thanks to Steven Boyd.
Hamilton’s performance was overshadowed however, when St. Mirren’s Dylan Pooler received a serious injury on the edge of the pitch and had to be taken to hospital by ambulance. Despite this set back, St. Mirren’s performance improved in the second half, and were rewarded with a goal from their Kiwi midfielder, Cameron Howieson.
Hamilton almost opened the scoring within fifteen seconds. Andy Ryan intercepted a pass then found himself one on one with the keeper. He attempted to place to the side of Dan Wilkes, but the St. Mirren keeper stood his ground before getting down to make a fine save.
Tierney had a shot blocked as it made its way to goal, but didn’t wait long before getting another chance for the visitors. With thirteen minutes played, a great pass to Tierney from midfield was rewarded with a low driven strike into the corner of the goal from fifteen yards.
The Buddies waited until just after the half hour mark when they got their first shot on target after Howieson unleashed a powerful shot from twenty yards, but Accies keeper Alan Martin was able to keep his footing and palm over the cross bar.
Boyd had been notable by his absence in the early stages of the match. He then made a strong run before bulleting across the face of the goal, it was missed by everyone before Scott McMann hammered close past the post.
Boyd then made his presence known as he struck from the edge of the penalty area straight into the top right corner of the goal, with Devlin starting the move with a great ball from the back.