The points were shared in the opening match of the 2024/25 William Hill Scottish League One campaign as Kelty Hearts played out a 1-1 draw in Montrose.  The hosts opened the scoring at Links Park however Craig Brown’s opener was cancelled out by Ross Cunningham nine minutes later.

The breakthrough did come for Montrose in the 59th minute through a long-range strike by Craig Brown, who had a busy afternoon.  Blair Lyons ran at the Kelty Hearts defence but the challenge was made cleanly on the edge of the box, however the ball eventually broke to Brown who cut onto his left and powered a shot in off the post.  

However, Kelty Hearts made a quick response and after some pressure equalised in the 68th minute.  After a patient passing move Johnston flicked the ball onto Paterson down the left who managed to loop a ball deep into the box before it went out.  The cross bounced perfectly for Ross Cunningham who took a touch and then hammered a shot past Cammy Gill to bring Kelty level.  

It was an even start to the game with few chances for either side.  Michael Tidser playing in the midfield came close to scoring in the 25th minute when his long range strike went just wide.  Five minutes later, Lewis Moore struck on target from just outside the box however it was held comfortably by Gill. 

There were chances for a winner in the closing stages for both sides.  Kelty’s best chance came nine minutes before the 90 when a Scott Allan corner found Flatman who had beaten his man but couldn’t get enough power to beat the goalkeeper.  For the hosts, it was Brown again who nearly won it but his shot in the box was brilliantly saved by Ruaridh Adams.  

Tidser reflected on the game to Kelty Hearts TV by saying “arguably we could’ve won the game.  Montrose are a really good side, this has never been an easy place to come so we’re happy to get our first point on the board and move on to next week.”  

Written by: Jamie Szmitz

Photography: Kevin Marshall (@KayemPhoto)