Buddies Run Riot: St Mirren Hit Eight Past Helpless Annan
St Mirren kicked off their competitive home season in spectacular fashion after netting eight goals against Annan Athletic. Stephen Robinson’s side came out firing, securing a three-goal lead within the first ten minutes. Killian Phillips bagged two early goals before Mikael Mandron smashed home Fraser Taylor’s through ball. The Buddies controlled the opening exchanges, link-up play from Ayunga, Mandron, and Phillips constantly troubling the visitors’ defence. Conor McMenamin was a constant threat on the right hand side, hitting the crossbar with a left-footed strike before firing wide from the edge of the box. Annan’s 84 travelling fans finally had something to celebrate in the 38th minute when Miles Gaffney latched onto a through ball and slotted past Ryan Mullen in the St Mirren goal. St Mirren started the second half brightly with Declan John forcing an early save from the onrushing Gio Clarke. However, it was Annan who would strike next, Miles Gaffney headed in his 2nd of the afternoon to give the Saints a wakeup call. The home side responded well to the setback. The ever-present Killian Phillips won a penalty which summer signing Richard King powerfully converted. Fraser Taylor spent last season on loan at Arbroath but was a standout in St Mirren’s midfield, his extensive passing range constantly stretching the Annan defence. Robinson spoke post match about Taylor’s ability to dictate a game, choosing to implement him in a deeper number 6 position. St Mirren finished the second half on top, surpassing their first-half tally with four goals in the final ten minutes. Mandron met Declan John’s low cross to make it five before Jayden Richardson drilled home the sixth on his home debut. Mandron completed his hat-trick with a low finish before substitute Ronald Idowu made it an incredible eight. This victory solidifies St Mirren’s top spot in Group D, they welcome Scott Brown’s Ayr United next Sunday. For Annan, 14 goals conceded in their last two games and significant work ahead as Willie Gibson’s men return to League 2. Teams St Mirren: (3-5-2) Mullen, Fraser, Gogic (Iacovitti 62’), King, Tanser (John 46’) , McMenamin (Richardson 62’), O’Hara, Taylor, Phillips (Scott 62’), Mandron, Ayunga (Idowu 46’) Bookings: Mandron 19’ Idowu 80’ Annan Athletic: (4-2-3-1) Clarke, Gilmour, Todd, Gibson, R. Muir, A. Smith, McGowan, Deveney (Maxwell 64’), Smith, Gaffney (Carmichael 81’), Craik Bookings: Gibson 80’ Attendance: 2,164
Aberdeen Re-sign Alfie Dorrington on loan for new campaign
Aberdeen Re-sign Alfie Dorrington on loan for new campaign Aberdeen today have confirmed the recapture of centre half Alfie Dorrington on a season long loan from Tottenham Hotspur. Dorrington spent the latter half of the season previous at the Dons, helping the Granite City club win their first Scottish Cup since 1990. The England Youth international appeared 17 times for the Reds last season, and Jimmy Thelin spoke to Aberdeen’s official club media on his excitement for Dorrington to rejoin for the season ahead. “We’re pleased Alfie has returned to the club. He played an important part in the squad in the second half of the season and with the campaign ahead we will need strength in depth to be competitive across all competitions. “Alfie settled well and made a real contribution so it’s always pleasing when a player shows a strong desire to be at the club. He recognised this is a good opportunity for him to be playing his football at a high level and in a good environment where he can continue to develop.” The 20 year old also spoke on his delight to ply his trade at Pittodrie for a full campaign. “I’m buzzing to be back. “I had six months here last season, and it was the best six months of my footballing life; winning the cup, playing lots of games, gaining new experiences. As soon as I heard Aberdeen had come back in for me it was a no brainer, I just wanted to meet the team straight away. “It was nice to get a warm reception from the boys and the staff and feel welcomed back by everyone. It will always have a special place in my heart. I just loved it here. When the season ended I felt like I wanted to more, so that’s why I’ve come back. “The fans here are amazing, the atmosphere, the belief they have in us so to get the chance to play in front of them again, especially on European nights will be so good. I can’t wait to get started.”