Written by Gregor Bruce

Bonnyrigg Rose were back at New Dundas Park following a fortnight of away fixtures, welcoming Elgin City.

Calum Elliot made two changes from last week's draw against Clyde F.C., bringing Kallum Higginbotham back into the midfield and Tom Ritchie replacing a suspended Paddy Martin between the sticks.

Rose started the first half with great intent from the get-go, with Callum Connolly’s header providing the first chance of the afternoon, going just wide of the Elgin City goal in the 9th minute. Angus Mailer gave Rose an early lead in the 14th minute with a weak-foot volley against his former club. Bradley Barrett had two dangerous chances in quick succession in the 28th minute, with a low-driven effort at goal met by a diving Glavin. He then tried his luck by directly shooting from the resulting corner, only to be denied again by the Elgin stopper.

Elgin's best chances of the half came through Jack Murray, with two headers unable to trouble Tom Ritchie in the Rose goal. Just before the end of the first half, Kerr Young headed just wide of the Elgin goal, coming close to adding to Bonnyrigg Rose’s dominant first half.

Kallum Higginbotham would start the second half strong for Bonnyrigg as he tried his luck from outside the box, just high and wide of the goal. Mark Ferrie came close to scoring in the 51st minute, but could not add the finishing touch, with his shot just wide of the goal. Ferrie would extend Rose’s lead in the 72nd minute with a clever chip, capitalising on a rebound from Bradley Barrett’s saved shot.

Bonnyrigg Rose showed excellent composure and discipline in the final stages of the match, demonstrating great game management. The team defended with hunger and desire, successfully keeping out a determined Elgin City side who pressed hard to get back into the game.

Rose played a game Charlie Kirkwood would be proud of, claiming all three points.

With momentum building, Bonnyrigg Rose now look forward to adding to their positive run of league form as they prepare for an away trip to Stair Park, where they will face Chris Aitken’s Stranraer F.C. next Saturday.

C'Mon the Rose!