The Thistle Archive

Media report

OUTLOOK SEEMS GOOD FOR THISTLE. New-look Partick Thistle got the cheers from their support as they promised a happier season ahead - and that, despite the loss of a late equaliser, is a boost for manager John Lambie, who has re-built his side during the close season. Lambie pointed out later: “We had three strikers missing tonight through injury and I am looking forward to them getting fit again.” However, Partick must be happy that the fans are ready to back them, despite last season's disappointments, for 1252 turned out on a cold evening.

Steve Dallas, who has stepped up from Baillieston Juniors, got on the target for Partick. With just 21 minutes gone, he took a clever through lob from Steve Docherty in his stride and shot powerfully past goalkeeper Moilanen. Although the Partick defence had to withstand a couple of dangerous attacks, the Firhill side stood firm, with former Kilmarnock defender Ray Montgomerie outstanding. Thistle almost added to that lead five minutes from the interval with a low Steve Docherty drive, which was just a foot wide. Then, Eric Paton came close early in the second period with an angled drive.

Partick had a real fright in 62 minutes when Mark Wright ran through unchallenged but had his shot blocked by keeper Kenny Arthur. As the ball rebounded to Kurt Nogan his shot towards the empty net was touched by the keeper onto a post and cleared. However, 12 minutes from time David Eyres knocked in an equaliser for Preston.

.