Drama as Thistle seal promotion

Kevin Petrie's introduction turned the game on its head.

Fife Thistle.........................3

Thistle travelled to Falkland for the final game of the 2015/16 season.

With Methilhill Strollers having won the league and Auchtermuchty Bellvue securing runners up spot Thistle needed to avoid defeat to pip St Monans Swallows to promotion but left it very very late on the day.

Despite what was at stake Thistle were looking anything but a team pushing for promotion with Vics beginning to take control as the half progressed and only a fine save from Henderson prevented Baillie from putting his side in front.

Vics ttok the lead when Baillie stepped up and sent Henderson the wrong was with a well taken penalty.

After 66 minutes it was 2-0 to Lomond when a low shot was spilled by Henderson and the impressive Baillie was on hand to prod home the loose ball.

Thistle needed something special to turn the game around and that arrived in the form of substitute Petrie.

With just 11 minutes remaining he timed his jump to perfection to head home a Barnes throw in.

In stoppage time Petrie slammed home another header from a Barnes throw in to the delight of everyone of a Thistle persuasion.

Thistle weren’t finished though and Barnes curled home goal number 36 of a remarkable first season.

Alba Mortgage Solutions Man of the Match – Kieran Jukes

Team – Henderson, Ireland (McShane 64), Gorgon (Munro 64), Ross (Capt.), Gough, Shepherd, McArthur, Jukes, McLaren (Cameron 69), Barnes, Moir (Petrie 60)

Sub not used – S. Anderson

The match was also the last game for Thistle stalwart Kevin Ross who is hanging up his boots after 16 years of outstanding service to the club.

Fife Thistle would like to take this opportunity to wish Kevin all the best for the future and thank him for his unrivalled commitment.

The changing room will be a quieter place without him.