Match preview written by SEÁN MCGILL

The Lowland League leaders travel to the third-place chasers as Bonnyrigg Rose head to the Penny Cars Stadium to take on Celtic B.

Predicting what is sure to be a keenly contested affair may prove a tough challenge, but one absolute certainty heading into Saturday’s meeting is that it’ll be a lot colder than the sides’ last (and first!) encounter.

The July sun beamed down on the immaculate surface of New Dundas Park, the scent of fresh possibilities wafting around the ground as a new campaign got underway. Rose fans had waited 189 days to see their team in competitive action, and the visit of Celtic’s brightest youngsters promised a challenging first outing.

The first hour went all the way of the hosts, with Lee Currie scoring a sumptuous half-volley from the edge of the box, before the instinctive George Hunter poked home on 52 minutes to double the Rose advantage. The youngsters grew into the game however, and Bosun Lawal slid into position to make NDP nervy. In inimitable fashion, Robbie Horn’s men held on, kicking off the season with three points that already felt significant despite their early occurrence.

It proved to be one of the few blips Celtic B have experienced to date in their maiden season in the pyramid, having won 17 of their 25 league games, while drawing four and losing four. They currently sit 10 points off Rose, but boast the best defensive record in the league, having conceded just 19 goals so far.

Celtic will be hoping this resolve at the back isn’t hampered by the departure of left-back Brody Paterson, who joined League One side Airdrieonians on loan earlier this week.

Scoring goals hasn’t been a problem for Tommy McIntyre’s side either, fresh off a 6-0 victory at Edinburgh Uni last weekend. 17-year-old Adam Brooks bagged a hattrick at Peffermill, with Owen Moffat, Joey Dawson and Ben Summers also getting on the scoresheet.

Rose put in a professional performance in front of a crowd just shy of 1000 at Foresters Park in their last outing, overcoming Lothian rivals Tranent to progress in the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup. It was Hunter at the double, first thanks to his determined pressing, then thanks to his immense talent, as he emphatically volleyed home in spectacular fashion.

Fans were delighted to see Geo grab his goals, even more so in the knowledge that Rose will be without Keiran McGachie for their next two league fixtures. The club’s top scorer this season is suspended after picking up a second yellow while being awarded a free kick in our 3-0 win at Gala Fairydean Rovers.

Kick-off is the earlier time of 1pm at Airdrie’s Penny Cars Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Tickets are priced at £8 for adults and £4 for children (U16), and are available to purchase at the link here. Celtic B vs Bonnyrigg Rose tickets.

‘Mon the Rose!

Article Copyright © 2022. Permission to use quotations from this or any article on the website is only granted subject to appropriate source credit and for online use source credit and hyperlink to www.bonnyriggrosefc.co.uk