Garnock made the trip to Dunfernline in the hope that the forecast storm would not arrive until the match had been completed. As it transpired while there was a strong wind blowing down the pitch the rain remained light for most of the game.
Despite the overhead conditions the playing surface was not holding any standing water and while soft it was definitely playable.
Garnock had the advantage of the wind in the first half however in truth both teams found it easier playing into the breeze. The visitors were first on the scoreboard when following a kick from stand-off Rory Walker winger Louis Docherty tackled his opposite man deep in the home 22 . The ball was turned over and Rory Walker dived over in the corner. Conversion wide 0-5
Most of the half was played around midfield however just before half-time Dunfermline were pressing close to the visitors line and despite strong defence they eventually went over. The conversion was good taking the half-time score to 7-5.
The Garnock coach and captain both had some strong words with the squad during the interval demanding more effort and commitment.
In truth Dunfermline had the better of the opening exchanges of the second half and after 15 minutes they scored a fine try wide out taking the score to 12-5
This reverse seemed to galvanise the resolve of the visitors and they began to secure the lions share of possession. With 25 minutes gone skipper, Jared Reekie made a break from just inside his own half and pace and footwork resulted in him dotting down under the crossbar. Conv good 12-12
The following 10 minutes were relatively uneventful with neither side able to exert any real pressure. However with time running out Garnock worked their way into the home 22 and were eventually awarded a penalty. They elected to kick for goal . By this time the wind had really picked up and the penalty attempt was pushed wide however the ball did not go dead and the home defender misjudged the flight , knocking the ball forward in the in goal area pushing it back into play. Wing-forward Paul Synnott was first to react and while he collected the ball he was unable to cross the whitewash. The ball was recycled and Matt Shiells crashed over. The difficult conversion was succuessful 12-19
There was time for the game to restart and Garnock were able to play through a few phases to bring the match to a close.
This was a very welcome four points for the visitors who have now won three of their last four games and losing the other by a single point. Garnock have one game remaining at home to Stewartry before reaching the league fixtures midpoint.
Next Saturday’s match is at Lochshore with a 2pm kick off
Garnock squad v Dunfermline Shiells, Chapman, O’Brien, King, McDermott, A Miller, Craig, Watson, Kearney, R Walker, Docherty, K Walker, Reekie, Smith and Purewal Reps F Miller, Collins, Synnott and Irvine
