East Lothian Courier | Sport | HI HI’s Premier League hopes revived after win

Saturday, 30th August, 2008

Published: Thursday, 15th May, 2008 09:00

HI HI’s Premier League hopes revived after win

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Fauldhouse 0 v 1 Haddington Athletic

It was make-or-break last Saturday for George Bowmaker’s Hi Hi when they travelled to take on South Division leaders Fauldhouse United.

Seven points behind, but with a game in hand, it was vital that Haddington took all three points if they were to retain any hope of Premier League football next season

A goalless scoreline at the interval was an accurate reflection on a competitive first half.

The vociferous home fans were giving the referee a hard time after he booked three of their players within eight minutes of the second half.

Home keeper Connolly pulled off a brilliant one-handed save from Anderson on 53 minutes, with the Hi Hi’s top scorer seeming sure to score from close range.

As full-time approached, a goalless draw looked increasingly likely, with both keepers in fine form on the few occasions they were tested.

With 12 minutes left, Finlayson replaced Anderson in the Haddington attack, and it was the club’s longest serving player who got the game’s only goal five minutes later. He took a pass from Rusin on the right of the box and sent a low, angled drive beyond Connolly to delight the visiting players and fans.

The Fauldhouse keeper vented his frustration at the referee and collected a second booking, then several red cards during a less than dignified departure.

The home side tried to press for an equaliser and there was some anxiety among Haddington supporters when the referee added five minutes’ injury time.

But the Hi Hi players hung on and claimed three vital points in their quest for Premier League football.

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