KYLES Athletic returned to action in impressive fashion with a 5-1 victory over Oban Celtic at Mossfield, as Grant Profit’s side continued their preparations ahead of the first competitive weekend in March.
They made the perfect start, scoring straight from the throw-in and almost doubling their advantage moments later, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside. Their second goal soon followed, though, with Ross MacRae delivering an excellent free-kick for Scott Macdonald to slot home.
But a lapse in concentration at the back allowed Oban Celtic back into the contest before the interval, reducing the deficit to 2-1 at half-time.
The opening stages of the second half were evenly contested, but Kyles gradually asserted control as the game wore on.
Despite creating a number of chances, the visitors had to wait until around 15 minutes from time to add their third goal, with that breakthrough opening the floodgates. Further strikes followed in quick succession as Kyles finished strongly to seal a comprehensive win.
The game was marked by Will Cowie’s return from injury with an impressive double, while Macdonald also netted twice. Ethan Kerr completed the scoring to round off a productive afternoon.
The match also saw a debut for Ali Thomson, with first senior appearances handed to Luke MacVicar, James Morley, Rob Anderson, highlighting the blend of experience and youth in the squad.
Manager Grant Profit was pleased with the workout on Mossfield’s large grass pitch as Kyles look to sharpen up ahead of the new campaign, though he acknowledged there is still work to be done before competitive action resumes.
