Edinburgh City opened their Ladbrokes League Two campaign with a disappointing defeat from Montrose at Ainslie Park.
After a bright opening, City, who had new signing Gavin Malin making his debut after signing from Arbroath, fell to a double sucker-punch when the Gable Endies scored two goals in as many minutes when Templeman and McLaren scored in the 28th and 30th minute respectively.
The Links Park side took command after that and added a killer third goal at the start of the second half when Campbell fired in a superb free-kick which left City keeper Antel stranded. Montrose look like they have pulled off a masterstroke with the signing of the experienced Sean Dillon and the former Dundee United captain strolled through the game.
City’s task was made virtually impossible when Shaun Harrison reacted angrily after being the victim of a crude foul by Callaghan and was shown a second yellow card – and, therefore, a red – by referee Northcroft with 15 minutes to go.
City did pull a goal back when Lewis Allan slotted home with seven minutes to go but it was too little too late for Gary Jardine’s side.
Edinburgh City: Antel, Harrison, Walker, Laird, Thomson, Malin, Grimes, Hall, Verlaque, Mackie, Allan
Montrose: Fleming, Allan, Steeves, Fotheringham, Dillon, Campbell, Johnston, Callaghan, McLaren, Templeman, Thomson
Referee: Mat Northcroft
Att: 341
ps City have a brilliant offer for Hearts and Hibernian season ticket holders who pay half-price admission to City league games on production of their club’s season ticket. City’s next league game at Ainslie Park – home of neighbours Spartans – is on 26th August when Elgin City are the visitors.
Author of The Team for Me - 50 Years of Following Hearts. Runs Mind Generating Success, a successful therapy practice in Edinburgh. Contact me if you want rid of any unwanted habits. Twitter @Mike1874
