Partick Thistle 1 Stranraer 2

Last updated : 06 May 2006 By Footymad Previewer
Partick Thistle progressed into the play-off final however, they forced their fans into ten minutes of worry as Stranraer almost snatched victory at the end of the game.

It took a full 13 minutes before the first chance which fell to Scott McCulloch, however his 35-yard free-kick flew just wide.

Stranraer had their first opportunity on 17 minutes when Michael Moore found himself one on one against Kenny Arthur and the keeper was equal to his ten-yard shot.

Two minutes later Thistle had a great chance to take the lead, but Roberts' effort from four yards was cleared from the line.

As half-time approached both sides had further chances with Ian Harty coming close for the visitors on 39 and Stephen McConalogue close for the Jags on the stroke of half-time.

The second half followed a similar pattern with Stranraer trying to get some goals back and Thistle being resolute in defence.

Until the 78th minute when Stephen Aitken combined with Leigh Hinds and his shot was only parried by Arthur and this presented Ian Ross with a simple tap in from close range.

Partick were shaken by the goal however, they reacted positively and levelled on 86 when Billy Gibson's through ball found Roberts ten yards out and he steadied himself before firing home from six yards.

Stranraer gave themselves another glimmer of hope on 89 minutes when David Hamilton fired a spectacular overhead kick high into the net from eight yards.

The final whistle was greeted with a mixture of joy and relief from the Thistle fans and players and they will have to do better against Peterhead in the play-off final next week.