It has been a busy spell for our Under 19 side as they continue their pre-season games.

After an impressive draw at Motherwell the boys faced a tough challenge against a very good experienced senior Penrith team. Billy Gray scored seven minutes before half time but the hosts held a 3-1 lead at the interval. The coaches made several changes at the break to give others game time but it was the Cumbrian side who went on to secure a comfortable victory.

While some of the youngsters travelled with the first team to the far north to face Brora Rangers, the others played host to Gartcairn at Palmerston.

Laith Aldulemy scored after 13 minutes to put the boys one up but the visitors levelled on the half hour mark to make it all square at the break.

Gartcairn scored again in the 77th minute to edge ahead but their lead lasted just three minutes until William Salfenmoser levelled.

Coach Eddie Warwick said “The Penrith game was tough and it was mixed against Gartcairn as we were good in spells and poor in other parts. But the boys showed character to come back after going a goal down against an aggressive side. It’s pre-season so there were a lot of changes made and it became a bit disjointed and it was hard to build any momentum. It was an improvement after the Penrith game, two different games that have offered different challenges for the boys.”

The pre-season matches continue tonight at Palmerston as the 19s face Walsall under 18s. Kick-off is 7.30 pm with the usual pay at the gate £3 entry.