Kelty Hearts were defeated 2-0 by Cove Rangers at New Central Park in a result which confirmed the Maroon Machine’s fate.  First half goals from Adam Emslie and Mitch Megginson meant that Kelty’s status as a League Two club for the 2026/27 season was confirmed.

The opening goal came in the 11th minute after aggressive pressing from the visitors.  Jack Brydon’s hooked clearance only went as far as Megginson, his shot was saved by Kyle Gourlay but only as far as Emslie.  The on-loan Ross County winger couldn’t miss as he tapped in his sixth goal of the season.

Mitch Megginson got on the scoresheet himself in the 31st minute, latching onto a poor pass at the back.  Jack Brydon’s pass was intercepted by the veteran striker as he found himself with only Gourlay to beat, the number nine calmly slotting into the net.

Kyle Gourlay had a busy afternoon and was called into action numerous times.  Megginson would’ve had a second with a looping effort just outside the box, but Gourlay done well to parry onto the crossbar.

The Maroon Machine had a better second half in terms of chance creation.  Substitute Innes Murray tested Balint Demus with a looping cross before Lewis Moore also forced a good save from the Cove ‘keeper.

Chris Maguire struck a volley well in the second half, but Kyle Gourlay made another good save to keep the scoreline at 2-0.

Reflecting on the afternoon to Kelty Hearts TV, Thomas O’Ware admitted “that 90 minutes is a good example of why we’re relegated.  I was embarrassed by that performance today, it looked like a group of players where 75% had given up today.”

Written by: Jamie Szmitz

Photography: Kevin Marshall (@KayemPhoto)