Gus MacPherson bagged his first win as Greenock Morton manager as they fought out a 2-1 Scottish Championship win over Queen of the South at Cappielow.
Queen of the South looked second best to every ball and Morton were in full control for the majority of the match. They continued to find space in the wide areas throughout the match with full-backs Lewis Strapp and Darren Hynes overlapping the midfield and providing options in the attack.
Strapp was causing problems. (Photo by Ewan Bootman/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The home side could have scored four or five in the first half alone with strikes from Hynes, Gary Oliver and Aidan Nesbitt all inches away from the target. They were in full control though and it was only a matter of time before they found the opener.
After a flurry of corners, MacPherson’s side finally found their way in front, and it was an unusual one. Nesbitt managed to score directly from a corner in dramatic fashion and it was a goal that the 24-year-old wouldn’t be able to pull off again even if he tried. It was no less than what Morton deserved though.
MacPherson would have been fuming that his players never managed to add to the lead when Queen of the South clawed one on the stroke of half-time through a great strike from Ayo Obileye, 25 yards out from goal. The midfielder found a yard of space and unleashed a shot that was too powerful for Aidan McAdams in goals.
Long-range effort. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
The second half started very much the same as the first with Morton in full control of possession but failing to produce with the final ball. Nesbitt nearly added a second to his tally with one of his efforts needing Gregor Buchanan to clear the ball off the line.
It was Oliver who then answered Morton’s calls and headered the ball home from Strapp’s cross to give the home side their well-deserved lead. The game was extremely scrappy for the remainder with Morton trying to hold onto the ball and Queen of the South nervously striding forward to get their leveler. Here are three things we learned as MacPherson’s side earned a big Championship victory.
Morton dangerous in the wide areas
Morton looked dangerous anytime they were striding down either flank in this game and this should give them confidence for the rest of the season. Nesbitt and Oliver were particularly impressive, but the inclusion of Hynes played a huge part also.
Causing problems. (Photo by Paul Devlin / SNS Group via Getty Images)
Queen of the South frustration
The away side will be disappointed as they appeared off pace compared to Morton. Queen’s have been in good form recently but they had Obileye to thank for their moment of magic in the first half because it was one of a few bright lights.
Huge boost for the Ton
It’s a much-needed win for the Ton who are now three points further away from the relegation spot. With both Alloa and Arbroath dropping points this weekend, to win this game was a massive boost for Morton, who will be looking to add to this and maybe even climb up the table, just five points off second while sitting three points above second-bottom.
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