Arthurlie passed up the chance to top the SSPL for the first time this season as defeat at Townhead Park left us unable to take advantage of Auchinleck's loss to Neilston.

As with the last two matches, 'Lie fell behind but, on this occasion, were unable to find the goals that would secure the points that would keep us ahead of Cumnock in the League.  As things stand, Arthurlie lie third behind Cumnock and Talbot, level on 20 points, although todays victors have a game in hand.

As with last week, Ross Ballantyne had the first chance of the game but was denied as the referee's whistle blew despite the lack of any apparent infringement while Joe Andrew saw his low drive saved by John Potter in the Cumnock goal.  Ross Ballantyne saw his curling free kick swirl over the junction of the bar and post but it was the home side who took the lead with an uncontested header in the six yard box send beyond Craig Marshall.

Joe Andrew continued his hunt for golas, cutting inside from the left touchline and winding his way past several defenders before his final effort was blocked by a last gasp tackle but it was Cumnock who ended the half on a high, seeing two efforts narrowly miss.

Gary Faulds chose the offensive outlook for the second half with Alan McFadden replacing Ricky Orr as 'Lie went three up front, while Davie Prow also entered the fray in place of Alan Shields.  John Bradford, looking to score for the fourth match in a row, miscued in front of goal when it looked easier to net before his skillful knock down to Andrew resulted in the latter tugging the ball into the arms of a grateful Potter. 

Andrew powered his way into the right side of the box but he opted to shoot with Bradford waiting in the six yard box and his effort was smothered.  Martin Hughes was picking up the ball on the edge of the box with great effect but he couldn't hit the target despite repeated efforts and John Johnston became the fourth front man in blue and white when he replaced Greg McCulloch.

Leading by example Roland Fabiani charged forward out of defence, winning a free kick that came to nothing, but disaster struck just before the final substitution of Johnston as Fabi went down in the corner and, limping off at the end of the game, must surely now be a doubt for the crucial Scottish Cup tie next week.

All in all, with 'Lie failing to take their chances, there can be few complaints about today's game, a touch disappointing but the fight must go on!