Partick Thistle 0 Gretna 6

Last updated : 23 September 2006 By Footymad Previewer
Thistle's dismal record against Gretna continued with a comprehensive defeat.

The visitor's settled early and after only three minutes David Graham shot from 14 yards but Jonathan Tuffey in the Thistle goal was equal to it. Gretna continued to look for the opener and on 8 minutes Colin McMenamin connected with a Steve Tosh cross but his header beat keeper Tuffey but rebounded off the bar and Thistle were able to clear the danger.

At this point Thistle were unable to mount any great challenge and it was no surprise when Gretna opened the scoring on 29 minutes when an Allan Jenkins shot from 18 yards was deflected by McMenamin leaving Tuffey with no chance as the ball flew passed him high into the net. As the half continued Thistle did come more into the game without causing Alan Main in the Gretna goal to make any saves.

The second half started well for Gretna and they extended their lead on 55 minutes when Tosh was able to latch onto a short pass back from Billy Gibson and fire home from 6 yards. However, he was injured in the process and had to be stretchered off moments later. Gretna's third came on 60 minutes when Graham's cross was met superbly by Derek Townsley who made no mistake with a strong header at the back post.

Thistle were now demoralised and Gretna extended their league on 68 minutes when Jenkins beat the Thistle off side trap and easily rounded Tuffey to score into an empty net. As the game came to an end Gretna rubbed Thistle's noses in it with two late goals. The fifth came on 80 minutes when Gavin Skelton hurled home a 16 yard shot into the far top corner and the scoring was completed on 86 minutes when substitute Matthew Berkeley had the simplest of tasks tapping in from close range following great play by McMenamin.

Gretna will be pleased to get back on track but Thistle must do something to change the season before it is too late.

Hit woodwork figures:-

Partick Thistle 1, Gretna 0