Darvel warm up for Aberdeen Scottish Cup clash with thumping win

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Craig Truesdale bagged a hat-trick as Darvel hit Kilwinning Rangers for six last night to extend their lead at the top of the West of Scotland League Premier Division.Despite Kilwinning taking a second minute lead at Buffs Park through Thomas Collins, Darvel quickly turned the match on its head - Daryll Meggatt, Ian McShane and Truesdale all finding the net over the course of the next 20 minutes to put the visitors 3-1 in front.Keiren Wood reduced the deficit against the run of play before half-time to keep the hosts in the game.

But they couldn't live with Mick Kennedy's side after the break. Truesdale scored twice in succession to complete his treble and Jordan Kirkpatrick got on the scoresheet before a late deflected Collins's strike added a semblance of respectability to the scoreline.The result sent Darvel eight points clear of second placed Beith at the summit, albeit having played one game more than their nearest rivals.And in this kind of form it will take something special to stop The Vale marching to a second successive title.They arrived in North Ayrshire looking to make it five wins on the spin in the division.Collins gave them a fright when his smart close range finish got Kilwinning off to a dream early start.

But if anything, the setback seemed to spur Darvel into action.McShane rattled the crossbar with a devilishly dipping free-kick before Meggatt levelled the scores in the ninth minute when his downward header at a corner kick caught out goalkeeper Ewan Henderson.Dylan Mackin and Wood passed up opportunities to put Buffs back in front before Darvel took the lead in sensational fashion in the 13th minute.Home defender Kevin Nicoll was caught dithering in possession 35 yards from goal and McShane latched